If you’ve been looking for a way to reuse an old plastic plant pot, I’ve just found the best TikTok hack that not only makes use of old plastic but will turn your cut flowers into a florist-worthy display.

I’m always down to discover a new way to recycle a plastic plant pot. While they’re great for starting young plants, they’re also one of those items that you are unsure of how to dispose of once they break or you run out of use for them.

If you need floral decoration ideas, this hack couldn’t be easier. Using the drainage holes in the base of the pot as you would a flower frog, it’s perfect for creating a stunning floral display this summer.

The TikTok video posted by creators @jeffandlaurenshow shows Lauren placing a plant pot upside down in an opaque vase. She then pushes the stems of her cut flowers through the holes to hold them in place, creating a full-looking bouquet. This is essentially how a flower frog (£6.99, Amazon) works, holding your stems in place so you can arrange a display to your liking.

‘The drainage holes naturally help to hold your stems in place, giving you a little more structure and support as you arrange. While you won’t have quite as much control as you would with a traditional flower frog, it’s a lovely way to experiment with arranging and, importantly, means you’re giving an old pot a second life rather than sending it to waste,’ says Lucy Hook, Plant and Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild.

However, Lucy does recommend looking at the shape of pot holes first, as interestingly, this can determine what sort of vase to use.

‘A pot with holes arranged in a circular pattern works particularly well in a bowl or wide-necked vase, as it gives you plenty of space to spread your stems out and create a fuller, more natural-looking arrangement,’ she says.

‘If the holes are arranged in lines or a less open pattern, you may find your flowers are a little more restricted. If the pot allows, you could add a few extra holes to give yourself more flexibility when arranging.’

Is this a good hack to use?

If you’re looking for a budget garden idea that breathes new life into old plastic, this flower arranging hack is a good one to try.

‘The biggest benefit is that you’re upcycling and getting creative with something you already have at home. Repurposing an old plant pot is a simple, inexpensive way to reduce waste, while also creating a lovely, informal arrangement,’ says Lucy.

‘You can also experiment with different sizes and shapes of pots, depending on the vase or bowl you’re using. The only downside is that you’re limited by the existing drainage holes, so you have slightly less control over where you place each stem compared to a traditional flower frog.’

As Lucy points out, a flower frog offers a little more structure, with you able to position stems exactly where you want them. It’s also worth noting that flower frogs have a more subtle look than plastic posts. This hack simply wouldn’t work in a glass vase where you can see the brown or black plastic.

However, if you’re looking to save money or reuse plastic around your home rather than binning it, it is a good one.

Will you try this easy flower arranging hack for your next soiree

Art shouldn’t be reserved for galleries and the homes of the rich and famous. And that’s exactly why IKEA’s releasing a limited edition collection of art objects with prices starting from just £19 in order to make art accessible to everyone. The IKEA KONSTRUNDA collection is launching on 1st September both online and in stores – and I’m already planning on elevating my home with a few of the featured pieces.

IKEA’s been killing it lately with imaginative and design-forward collections, from the viral IKEA PS 2026 collection filled with future design classics like the PS 2026 floor lamp to the clever and compact IKEA KOMPISHÄNG range which launched only a few weeks ago. But the IKEA KONSTRUNDA range takes things even further as it focuses purely on the aesthetic value of the 22 objects created by seven different designers and artists.

‘Art should be available for all to enjoy, not a luxury reserved for galleries,’ says Karin Gustavsson, the collection’s creative leader. ‘Art evokes emotion, sparks conversation and helps transform a house into a home. With KONSTRUNDA, we wanted to create a collection that encourages people to express themselves and surround themselves with objects they love.’

Art can make your home look more expensive and considered. But it usually comes at a rather high price. But that’s not the case with the IKEA KONSTRUNDA art objects and creative pieces of furniture and soft furnishings.

Named after the Swedish word for ‘art tour’, the KONSTRUNDA range includes both purely ‘decorative’ objects and more practical pieces of furniture with a playful design - like stools and side tables - as well as soft furnishings like cushions and rugs, which can also be turned into wall hangings.

My top IKEA KONSTRUNDA picks

Of course, you don’t have to wait for the 1st September to inject some artistic flair into your home without breaking the bank. Here are a few pieces that will make your home look more interesting and intentional that are available to shop now.

Which piece (or pieces) are you planning to adorn your home with once the new collection drops? Don't forget to mark your calendars to avoid missing out.

There's nothing that screams autumn more than a warm, spicy candle. And whether you already have a collection that's getting dusty somewhere (it adds to the spookiness!), or you've been online shopping for some pumpkin-spiced scents but don't want to spend a fortune, all you really need to do is head to your local Aldi.

Yes, the summerween stock has started littering itself across the shelves. And I'm totally here for it. Aldi's autumn-scented candles landed in store this week and they are returning sellout Specialbuys that went viral last year, so act fast if you want to get your hands on one. They're nice and affordable — so perfect for your Boo Basket. We're just thinking ahead here.

As we know with all Aldi Specialbuys, when they're OOS, they're gone. So don't miss your chance to smell (and inevitably snap up) a spicy candle from just £2.69. And as someone who used to test home fragrances for a living, I just know that these beauties will turn Aldi's middle aisle into a ghost town.

Not only are they all pretty, but this candle range comes in several scent choices, so there's something for everyone. Whether you love a warm scent or prefer to go for something subtle, it's all here.

I'll be sure to grab a few of these for everyday lighting come October, but as far as my special autumn candles go (you know, the ones you only light when guests are coming over), I've got a few skeletons hiding in my (candle) closet.

I absolutely love The White Company's Fireside Candle, which is perfectly woody and will also last you into the Christmas season. I'm also a big fan of Nest New York Fragrances, and their orange Pumpkin Chai candle, available on Cult Beautywon't disappoint even the fussiest of noses.

It's safe to say that I'm excited for autumn!

Everyone knows Aldi’s middle aisles are often filled with hidden homeware gems, but this weekend the brand is tapping into one of this summer’s biggest wellness trends with the launch of a premium ice bath.

If this year’s multiple heatwaves have left you dreaming of a cold water plunge then you are in luck, as ice baths have become one of the biggest garden trends of 2026. While their cooling properties can offer relief on hot summer days, the boom in popularity is due to the many health benefits linked to regular cold water immersion.

While ice baths were once the sort of novelty only available in luxury wellness facilities, they are becoming commonplace in our homes as more people are creating their own spa-den’s and outdoor wellness spaces. And now, this Sunday (16th August), Aldi are launching an ice bath that will allow you to feel the benefits, without breaking the bank.

Aldi’s ice bath is perfect for gardens of all shapes and sizes. The inflatable design, with a pump included, makes it easier than ever to set up and use. Simply blow up the base, close the valves and place it on an even surface. Fill with water, and add bags of ice until you meet your desired temperature.

10°C to 15°C is thought to be ideal if you want to feel the benefits without the risk of cold water shock, but if you are a beginner you can work up to this. A thermometer is not included with the Aldi tub, but I recommend buying one (like this £9.99 option from Amazon) to ensure your bath is at optimal temperature.

Once inflated, the bath’s rigid structure means it can stay put for multiple days, ensuring easy access for any time you’d like to take a plunge. It is recommended to plunge multiple times a week, working up to spending around 2–5 minutes within the cold water bath. The ice bath also includes a filter pump, which helps to avoid stagnant water.

The premium ice bath is a step up from a £24.99 version that Aldi launched earlier on in the year. The new version comes at an increased cost of £150, but for a two-person tub with a durable design and included accessories, it’s still more affordable than some of the other ice baths to buy on the high street.

The benefits of ice baths

As a frequent runner and gym goer, I am no stranger to an ice bath. While I haven’t yet invested in an at-home set up, I have paid to use cold water plunge pods in gyms and wellness facilities multiple times due to the physical and mental health benefits that they provide.

‘Cold water immersion gives people a direct, tangible sense of control over their mental clarity, stress levels, and emotional state,’ explains Dr Tasmin Lewis, founder of Wellgevity. ‘It also provides muscular recovery and circulatory stimulation without joint impact and triggers the release of dopamine. Because of this, regular cold exposure is associated with reductions in low mood and anxiety symptoms.’

‘Cold immersion can act as a training stimulus for the nervous system,’ she adds. ‘The initial gasp reflex is a stress response. But, with repeated exposure, the body learns to meet that surge and settle. This improved capacity to transition between stress and recovery carries over into everyday life, resulting in calmer stress responses, improved mood, and better sleep.’

It’s no secret that our homes are becoming sanctuaries, so the addition of ice baths to our outdoor spaces feels like a natural progression. ‘Cold plunging has gone from something most people associated with elite athletes to something we are now seeing in ordinary homes and gardens, and that’s a really positive shift,’ explains Jake Newport, CEO of Finnmark Sauna.

‘For years, the big garden investments were hot tubs, outdoor kitchens and garden rooms. Now we’re seeing people dedicate space to things that support their wellbeing, and ice baths fit perfectly into that,’ adds Jake, ‘And people aren't necessarily creating enormous, expensive home spas. It might be an ice bath, a sauna or an outdoor shower tucked into a corner of the garden, or simply a plunge pool on the patio.’

If you like the sound of cold water immersion and want to transform your outdoor space into a wellness retreat, be quick. Aldi’s ice bath is a special buy launching in stores this Sunday (16th August), and I imagine it will sellout quick.

Upgrade your set up

Level up your wellness experience with these added extras

If one trend has defined gardens in 2026, it is undoubtedly DIY water features. And if anyone has mastered the trend, it’s Martin and Shirlie Kemp’s, whose effortless steel water feature is perfect for creating a serene atmosphere in a garden - and experts say it’s easy to recreate.

Unsurprisingly, DIY water features have been a big garden trend this summer, as not only are they a great way to make your garden feel like a more serene and calming environment, but wildlife-friendly, climate-resilient spaces are also a priority for gardeners. What better way to nail every point than with a DIY solar-powered fountain that pollinators can enjoy, too?

If you’re looking to make your own water feature this summer, then look no further than Kemp's example.

How to get DIY a water feature like Martin and Shirlie

Martin and Shirlie Kemp are a celebrity couple that I always turn to for garden inspiration. From their pastel flower displays in the spring to their impressive autumn pumpkin arch, the couple frequently show off their gardening prowess via their home’s Instagram account @maisonnumber9.

And in a post of the couple weeding their garden, I spotted the water fountain, which looks like a fire pit that’s being repurposed into a water feature. I wasn't the only one to take note, as the comments were filled with eagle-eyed fans asking about the steel fountain in their vegetable garden.

‘A fire pit can actually make a great base for creating your own water feature, as can any large bowl, trough or reclaimed container, as long as it’s watertight or can be safely lined,’ says Tom Douglas, Senior Gardening Buyer at Cherry Lane Garden Centres.

‘To recreate a similar look, position your container where you want it and test it for leaks before filling it, as it’ll be pretty heavy once full! Keep the surface of the water relatively uncluttered and let the surrounding plants do the talking. Adding a few stones is also a good idea, as this gives insects and other wildlife a safe way to get in and out if they stop by for a drink.

‘Rainwater is preferable when topping it up, and if you want to introduce a little movement and sound, a discreet solar fountain pump is a great addition.’

Why are DIY water features trending?

Using a £12.99 solar fountain from Amazon, some pebbles and a large planter (I like The Range’s Mari Textured Planter), you can easily create a pretty water feature on a budget that looks high-end. It’s a quick and easy garden DIY project that actually looks good. And considering an actual water feature frequently costs more than £100, it’s an incredibly affordable garden upgrade, too.

‘We've seen a real shift towards biophilic design – that is, gardens that harness various elements of the natural world, fitting into the environment around it rather than feeling separate or distinct. Water features tap directly that, bringing movement, sound and a sense of the wild into gardens that might not otherwise have the space to utilise a full-size pond,’ says Gary Farrell, Director at Nth Degree.

‘It's the sensory side that really draws people in. The sound of trickling water has a calming effect, and there's growing awareness that time spent in nature can ease stress and lift your mood. People also love that they attract wildlife, from birds to dragonflies, which makes the whole garden feel more alive.’

Get the look

While DIY water features look fabulous, they really are easy to make. Will you be making one just like the Kemp's?

It turns out that Nigella Lawson's enthusiasm for cooking never takes a backseat – even during her summer holidays. Set to star as a new judge in the upcoming series of The Great British Bake Off this autumn, the chef and cookbook author has been detailing the cooking essentials she can't bear to part from, especially when making do in an unfamiliar holiday kitchen.

From her eventual conversion to using one of the best air fryers to the rice cooker she recommends as the ultimate foodie gift, Nigella has long been a source of inspiration for our kitchen buying decisions here at Ideal Home.

Now, writing in the Financial Times this weekend, comes Nigella's admission that she takes not one, but two Microplane graterson her travels with her, alongside a host of other cooking gadgets. Here's why she's so attached to this specialist cooking must-have (and why the Ideal Home team love it too!).

Nigella's holiday essential

It seems that Nigella's trusty pair of Microplanes (which, for the uninitiated, is a brand seen as the gold standard for grating in kitchens) are never far from her side, even when she's meant to be taking a relaxing break.

She admits that while she 'really should only take one Microplane grater' on her travels, she's fallen into the habit of taking multiple. Nigella says she uses 'two, both fine, one of which I use for garlic and ginger; the other one for zesting lemons'.

Though I can't claim to have quite Nigella's level of all-round food wisdom, I'm a total Microplane obessesive too – I recently cited as within my top 3 kitchen essentials that I'd never part with, even after a ruthless declutter.

My preferred design right now is this Grate and Store design (£39.95 via Selfridges) as I like using the container element to store leftover shavings. I use it for garlic, ginger, cheese and for zesting lemons when I need to. It's never out of use in my house.

But Nigella's insistence on a finer lemon zest, which means she probably uses the brand's dedicated professional tool (£32 at Amazon), has me thinking that I might need to upgrade to a finer companion version too.

The difference between my grater and the brand's tailor-made zester is that is has more packed in 'teeth' on its textured side for taking the outermost layer off a lemon, essential for not hitting the bitter white pith underneath. This more delicate tool is better for achieving a restaurant result when zesting – which explains why Nigella simply can't choose between the two tools when she's packing her bags to go away.

I'm not the only member of the Ideal Home team to have joined the cult-following that Microplane tends to amass. Both our Digital Editor Rebecca Knight and Print Editor Ginevra Benedetti swear that a Microplane is worth it. Ginevra picked hers up over 9 years ago while on Holiday in Washington at Dean & DeLuca, and Rebecca has the handheld version and the Microplane mixing bowl grater (£26 at Amazon).

The other essentials that Nigella insists on accompanying her on her travels? She lists a 'small Oxo handheld mandoline' (like this one from Amazon for £16.50) as her next must-have, sensibly paired with a pair of cut-resistant gloves.

The final must-have? A garlic peeling tube (which you can pick up on Amazon for just £6, by Joseph Joseph) which allows you to peel a bulb without getting any garlicky residue on your fingers.

While plenty of people prefer the laid-back style of an all-inclusive, Nigella's taking quite the treasure trove of cooking gadgets with her instead, which is just what you'd imagine for such a obsessed writer. I for one can't wait for the return of Bake Off to our screens for even more inspiration from the nation's favourite TV chef!

During a heatwave, your garden is under a lot of strain to stay alive, and if weeds are currently thriving in yours, taking resources from your plants, it can be tempting to start weeding.

However, before you go about the process of weeding your garden, experts want you to read this first. While it is possible to weed during a heatwave, it’s not always the best idea - and sometimes does more harm than good.

We all want a weed-free garden, but weeding during a period of hot, dry weather can be a big mistake. Here’s everything you need to know.

Should you weed a lawn during a heatwave?

Unfortunately, there’s not a straight answer as to whether you should weed your garden during a heatwave. While weeds do compete with your plants for nutrients and water, which can cause your already struggling plants to suffer more, weeding can also put unnecessary stress on your garden.

‘This is a question I get asked a lot during hot weather, and my advice is not to rush out and start weeding in the middle of a heatwave. While weeds do compete with your plants for water and nutrients, extreme temperatures can put added stress on both the garden and the gardener,’ comments Luke Newnes, gardening expert at Hillarys.

‘One of the biggest risks is disturbing dry soil. When you expose the soil surface, moisture can evaporate more quickly, which isn't ideal when plants are already coping with hot conditions. Pulling out larger weeds can also disturb nearby roots that are trying to access what little moisture is available.’

Richard Barker, horticultural expert and commercial director of LBS Horticulture, agrees, noting that some weeds can even serve as a canopy, shading plants during periods of extreme heat.

‘The leafy canopy created by some weeds can act like a natural sun shield for the ground, keeping roots cool,’ he says. ‘Instead, it is better to cut taller weeds at the base, and then remove the roots during cooler weather.’

When to weed a garden

If you're desperate to weed your garden this week, Luke does say it’s okay to do so in moderation.

‘I don't avoid weeding altogether during a heatwave, but I am much more selective about when I do it. I tend to weed early in the morning or later in the evening when it's cooler, rather than working through the hottest part of the day,’ he says.

‘From a practical point of view, there's also the risk of overdoing it yourself. Gardening in high temperatures can be surprisingly exhausting, so I always keep jobs short, stay hydrated and save the heavier tasks for cooler days.’

However, for the best results, and least risk of damage to your garden, your best bet is waiting for rain.

‘The best time for weeding is usually just after rain or watering, as the damp soil will reduce the amount of effort needed to remove weeds from the soil. However, avoid pulling weeds if the ground is too wet, as this can affect soil health. Weeding in the morning is better, as temperatures will be much cooler and pulled weeds are less likely to drop seeds immediately,’ says Richard.

Garden weeding essentials

With rain forcasted (fingers crossed) around parts of the country at the end of the week, here are the weeding essentials you need for when the ground is moist again.

While the temperatures soar, you should worry less about the weeds in your garden and more about ensuring you and your plants are staying cool and hydrated.

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of modular sofas. So when a new design launches, I pay attention – especially when it’s from one of the best sofa brands that also makes excellent modular sofas. When I first saw the John Lewis Elara modular sofa at the brand’s autumn/winter 2026 press preview, I immediately fell in love.

Investing in one of the best modular sofas is becoming more popular, as John Lewis reports that sales of their modular sofas have increased by 220% over the last three years. I rate the retailer’s Flow and Tokyo modular sofas very highly – but even David Barrett, head of home design at John Lewis, says that the new Elara modular sofa is even more special.

‘Elara is fully modular and adaptable,’ David explains. ‘It differs from other John Lewis modulars through its availability in three different widths which allows almost endless configurations. The smaller modules can create a compact seating solution whereas the larger module enables you to create a grand corner group that accommodates the whole family and anything in between.’

As the Elara only just dropped on the retailer’s site, the individual modules in various widths are not yet available. But the ready-made Elara 4-seater chaise-end sofa, which sells for £4199 and can be with you within seven days, includes and shows the different seat widths.

Aside from this default ready-made option, the Elara sofa is available in 80 fabrics to choose from, several of which I got to see at the brand’s press showcase. If you go for the made-to-order option, the lead time is eight weeks.

But aside from the various widths available, there are other things to love about the Elara sofa, too. Generously sized and deep-seated sofas have been rising in popularity this year as we all value comfort above all else. And this sofa ticks those boxes – so much so that I’d say it’s not the most small living room-friendly, however, it makes for the perfect open-plan living room idea.

‘The Elara is a stunning centerpiece that looks flawless from every angle, making it the ultimate choice for open-plan living. Its relaxed seating and loose back cushions provide unparalleled, everyday comfort,’ David at John Lewis says. And I can attest to that as I was so comfortable when trying the sofa IRL that I didn’t want to get up at all.

The curvaceous shape of the sofa is another one of its benefits and aesthetically pleasing features which was inspired by Scandinavian design. ‘The Elara sofa brings our AW26 creative vision to life, combining Scandinavian design inspiration with insights gathered during Copenhagen Design Week,’ David confirms.

Last year, the retailer impressed me with the showstopping John Lewis Pleat sofa design. But this year, it’s all about the Elara modular sofa for me.

Given that yet another heatwave is set to strike the UK this week, and the fact that I’m heading off on holiday, I’ve been struggling to come up with ways to water my houseplants when I’m gone. I’ve settled on IKEA's self-watering VÅRDTRÄD plant pot as a means to keep my plants healthy and happy while I’m gone.

Anyone heading off on holiday will have spent a fair amount of time considering how to water plants on holiday. But what about your best houseplants? An irrigation system won't work unless they are in a large cluster together, so this is where a self-watering plant pot can come in handy.

IKEA’s VÅRDTRÄD range starts at just £2, making it a highly affordable watering option. Meanwhile, its plentiful positive reviews sealed the deal for me.

The VÅRDTRÄD plant pot is designed under the ethos that ‘Forgetting to water is human.’ It uses a built-in reservoir and capillary wick system to provide constant, slow hydration to your plants - perfect for when you’re going away for a few days. Water is stored in the base of the pot and travels upwards, into your soil, via a fabric wick.

Just like drip watering systems, this plant sends water slowly to the roots of your planters, ensuring your plants get the right amount of water. On paper, it sounds like the perfect houseplant solution for holidays. But before I bought one, I wanted to get an expert opinion from someone who had first-hand experience.

‘Self-watering planters are an absolute lifesaver when I go on holiday and don't want my plants to dry up. They really take the weight off - you don't have to worry about your garden when you're supposed to be relaxing, so to me, they're well worth the money,’ Sophie King, Garden Editor at Ideal Home, told me.

And Sophie’s not the only one impressed by these plant pots. IKEA’s VÅRDTRÄD pot range has plenty of positive reviews to back it up.

‘I bought this plant pot for a work plant to take the stress out of trying to remember to water it when I’m busy. I’ll definitely get the next size when it needs repotting,’ says one.

‘These are amazing and seem to work for all types of plants. I had an aloe I thought I had killed either over- or under-watering, popped it in one of these and now it’s healthy and having babies. Peace lily was starting to go yellow (yes, I really am rubbish at watering!), now it’s healthy, green and flourishing after being put in one of these. Spider plants - love it! Miniature indoor rose that we got free from a supermarket as it was almost dead - recovered, flourishing and flowering! I genuinely would have considerably fewer plants alive if it wasn’t for this pot!’ said another.

If you don’t have an IKEA local to you, don’t worry, as your local garden centre should stock self-watering plant pots, too. Alternatively, I’ve tracked down a few more you can shop online.

With these self-watering plant pots, I'm confident my plants will be as refreshed as I am when I return from holiday.

This summer, I’ve been testing out Febreze’s new Bin Fresheners (£5.99, Amazon), and I’m not lying when I say my bin actually smells good?! They’ve been brilliant at banishing bad smells from my kitchen bins.

In hot weather, it doesn’t take long until rubbish starts to smell and fruit flies flock to your home as a result. While we all should be cleaning a kitchen bin regularly during summer, sometimes this isn’t enough to stop the pong.

So, any product that promises to stop my bin from smelling, I’m more than willing to try. And I was genuinely left impressed with Febreze’s new Bin Fresheners. My bin has never smelled so good.

When I moved into my flat last year, I swapped out a standard plastic waste bin for Habitat’s 55 Litre Twin Compartment Pedal Bin (£70) as its space-saving design was better suited to my small kitchen. It’s proved incredibly easy to clean, and I’ve noticed fewer smells leak through than a kitchen bin.

However, during this year’s heat waves, I have noticed bad smells when I open the lid. So, when I got my hands on the Febreze Bin Fresheners, I was excited to try them. They’re incredibly easy to use. You simply clean and dry the lid, insert the fragrance capsule into the holder and stick it to the lid via its adhesive liner.

And from that moment onwards, there genuinely is a big difference between how my bin smelt before and after. I’d opted for the Outdoor Fresh scent, and every time I opened my bin it smelt almost spa-like. And no, that’s not a sentence I ever thought I’d write.

The fragrance pods last up to 45 days in a row, and in my experience, mask smells for that entire time. Febreze claims the fresheners fight up to 99% of common bin odours. I’m inclined to agree.

Having tested the fresheners out on my regular waste bin, I’m planning to pick up more pods and apply one to my food waste bin. I currently use the bicarbonate of soda hack to stop my food waste bin from smelling, but Febreze’s pods have proved more effective in my experience with my general waste bin.

Of course, you shouldn’t replace good bin hygiene with fragrance. Febreze’s pods are not designed to clean your bin, simply to mask poor smells. However, I have also noticed a reduction in flies this year compared to last year in my kitchen. Flies are attracted to decomposing food and rubbish, so your bin is a hotspot for attracting them. But while my bin now smells great to me, it’s less attractive for flies.

This handy little cleaning buy has earned a permanent place on my list of best cleaning products. It’s managed to make the inside of my kitchen bin smell like a spa retreat, and that is something short of a miracle.

If you're in the market for a sofa bed, I think Habitat is *the* place to shop right now. Especially if you want a budget-friendly design that's perfect for smaller homes.

The brand has just launched a brand new collection of sofa and chair beds, and there's one design in particular that has really caught my eye.

Habitat's new 'Pillow' sofa bed costs just £235, and I think its soft and squishy look sums up one of the year's biggest furniture trends.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past five years testing the best sofa beds and best chair beds on the market, and in the past year, I've noticed a growing trend.

This year, 'pillow' furniture is having a moment, and thanks to its soft, squishy, and cocooning vibes, I think it's a look that's here to stay.

I first noticed this trend in the bedroom. This year's bedroom trends are all about turning the sleep space into a restful retreat; a look achieved with tactile fabrics, nurturing colours, and furniture with soft, curvaceous, and 'pillowy' shapes.

It began with headboard trends. At the start of 2026, clean lines and hard edges were very clearly on their way out, and soft, padded, and pillowy bed trends were on the way in.

The idea was to create a sleep space that felt cocooning, restful, and like somewhere you wanted to curl up and 'nest' for a while.

Now, the look has reached the world of sofa beds, and I think Habitat's new launch nails it perfectly.

The aptly named Pillow chair bed looks exactly like you might expect. It's an elevated version of Habitat's bestselling Roma chair bed, but this new Pillow version has softer corners designed to resemble a pillow.

It's a small detail, yes. But it's often the small details that elevate a piece of furniture from run-of-the-mill to understated-luxe, and I think it's definitely a hosting solution to have on your radar as a result.

And not least, because at £295 for the single chair bed, and £365 for the double, this new overnight hosting solution is a stylish option that is also far more affordable than it looks.

I've rounded up some of the alternatives on the market below, and as you'll see, Habitat's options are by *far* the most budget-friendly.

Habitat is often the first brand to adapt designer looks for the high street, and I think its new Pillow chair bed will quickly become another trendsetter.

I expect plenty more pillowy shapes to emerge on the high street in the last half of 2026 and beyond, but will they be as well-priced as this Habitat option? I doubt it.

So, if you're looking for a small-space hosting solution that wins in the comfort, style, *and* budget-friendly stakes, I certainly think this chair bed is it.

Even though it’s still the middle of the summer and temperatures are regularly climbing above 30°C, Habitat just dropped its autumn collection. Several pieces from the range are already trending, including the new Habitat Drape armchair.

The Habitat autumn/winter 2026 lookbook was released at the end of last month, confirming the trending autumn colour palette I’ve been seeing across a few different collections. But when I first laid eyes on the designer-style Drape armchair, I was expecting a price tag well over £500. So I was pleasantly surprised by the £275 price point.

Given the high-end look of this accent chair paired with the affordable price point, I’m sure it’s going to fly off the shelves very soon – especially since it’s already trending on the Habitat website. So if you like the look of this stylish chair, better snap it up now while you still can.

In many ways, the sculptural Habitat Drape armchair reminds me of the H&M Home chrome lounge chair which I named my favourite accent chair last year. The Drape chair has a similar curvaceous shape with exposed legs ‘draped’ with cushioning done in textured upholstery. But while H&M’s chair featured a then-trending chrome frame, Habitat’s chair comes with a solid oak wood frame instead.

For autumn and winter 2026, Habitat’s collection is leaning into a layered and textured look that feels cosy and comfortable. ‘For autumn/winter 2026, our design studio explores expressive, layered interiors that feel intentional and considered,’ says Nina Findley, director of product at Habitat. ‘The collection balances comfort and warmth with individuality, craftsmanship and purposeful design.’

I haven’t been able to test the Drape armchair IRL as of yet but I hope I’ll get to try it soon as the brand also praises its high comfort.

Alternatives

But while we’re on the topic of new-in Habitat armchairs, I also spotted a couple more designs that I think are worth investing in.

Which Habitat armchair speaks to you?

Customers of Octopus Energy will be rewarded with free electricity if they cut down their energy usage during the upcoming solar eclipse.

On Wednesday 12 August, people across the UK will see an almost total eclipse for the first time this century. But this historical event is also a prime opportunity to save energy and money at home.

If you’re looking to save on your energy bills, Octopus Energy is asking customers to cut back on electricity between 6 pm and 8 pm – when the eclipse is at its darkest and earn free electricity the following weekend. Here’s how it works.

What is Octopus Energy's Eclipse Power Down Sessions?

During the eclipse, the moon will cover part of the sun and will temporarily wipe out a portion of the nation’s solar energy generation. With the eclipse predicted to begin around 6 pm (the exact time depends on where you are in the country), Octopus says this is when energy demand peaks.

So, instead of sticking a wash on, switching on the TV or even the kettle when you get home from work on Wednesday, Octopus customers should avoid using electrical appliances during the 6 pm to 8 pm window. Instead, why not go see the eclipse? Using a pair of solar glasses, of course.

The idea is that by using less electricity, customers can help take the strain off The National Grid. In return, Octopus is offering a free hour of electricity the following Sunday when demand is less. The company will monitor your usage via your smart meter, and if you’ve used less electricity than you normally would, you’ll unlock your free hour.

To take part in Octopus Energy Eclipse Power Down Sessions should sign up online via their rewards sign-up portal.

‘Many of us will be looking up at the sky on Wednesday evening to experience this once-in-a-generation event. But as the Sun disappears, so will some of Britain’s solar generation, just as demand peaks,’ commented Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, Chief Customer Officer at Octopus Energy.

‘By shifting everyday tasks like the washing machine or dishwasher until later, households can help reduce the need for gas power stations - and earn rewards for doing their bit.’

If you’re worried about paying your energy bills, there are other methods to save money, too. Assess energy-guzzling habits such as leaving appliances on standby and ditch them, try using smart plugs and consider fixing your tariff if you haven’t done so already.

As a homes journalist, I spend more time than I'd like to admit snooping around Instagram to see what stylish people and celebrities are putting in their homes. And this summer it seems rattan ice buckets are having their moment.

Given all the hot weather and bright sunshine we’ve had this summer, I can’t say I’m surprised that rattan ice buckets are emerging as a breakout home decor trend. Now more than ever, a stylish ice bucket has become a hosting essential for garden soirées and BBQs.

With beachy, coastal garden ideas making a huge comeback this summer, as well as Mediterranean styles influencing our interiors, it’s only natural that rattan would experience a boom, too. It’s a laid-back, boho style that can still look refined and polished when needed, and manifested into an ice bucket, it’s the must-have hosting accessory of summer.

I’ve been seeing the White Company Rattan Ice Bucket with Tongs (which sadly is currently sold out) all over Instagram this summer, on the set of Holly Willoughby’s new YouTube show Together, to the kitchen of celebrity chef Clodagh McKenna.

Rattan is a material that I associate solely with summer. From the best rattan garden furniture to the fact that rattan plant pots have been a breakout trend this summer, this material has a seaside aesthetic, which is perfect for creating a holiday home at home.

Extended into accessories such as ice buckets, rattan looks more refined and considered. Not to mention that rattan ice buckets tend to come with an expensive price tag, making it a bit of a status symbol on your bar cart. However, there are currently lots of rattan ice buckets on sale on second-hand websites, if you want to get the look on a lower budget.

'I'm always all for elevating even the simplest and most utilitarian pieces in one's home and making your space look more stylish and considered that way. And that's exactly what opting for a rattan ice bucket is great for. Plus, it's a great nod to coastal and Mediterranean styles, bringing a beachy vibe to any outdoor space - and who can say no to that?!' comments Sara Hesikova, Room Decor Editor for Ideal Home.

So, I’ve rounded up the prettiest rattan ice buckets I could find, including a couple of budget options, too.

‘I actually think a woven ice bucket has more longevity than a lot of obviously seasonal tableware because rattan itself isn't tied to one particular trend. I’d style it quite casually and put it alongside simple glassware, linen napkins and plain ceramic plates, then let the texture of the ice bucket do some of the work,’ says Blanca Sanchez, director of Halo Design Interiors.

‘I also wouldn’t limit it to outdoor entertaining. A woven ice bucket can look great on a kitchen island or dining table when you’re having people over indoors, particularly if you’ve got other natural materials in the room. Just don't overdo the rattan. One or two woven pieces are enough to create a relaxed summer feeling without making the room look like a themed beach house.’

A rattan ice bucket is a simple yet undoubtedly effective way to elevate your home bar. It may be a breakout trend this year, but it certainly has potential as a timeless hosting accessory.

Sorry IKEA, broadcaster Clara Amfo has just put me onto Habitat’s Sami Stacking Stool (£31), and it’s a brilliant alternative to the classic KYRRE stool if you want to add a bold pop of colour to your home. And right now, you can get an extra 20% off.

You should never underestimate the brilliance of a stackable stool as a small living room storage idea. Perfect for whipping out for extra guests, the selling point of this seat style is that it takes up minimal space when not in use. And Habitat’s Sami stool is proof that space-savers can be stylish pieces of furniture in their own right.

Displaying her stools as part of Habitat’s most recent Arranging Spaces instalment, Clara's preference for pops of colour is proof that your practical home items don’t have to be boring.

If you need examples of how to use colour in a home, then look no further than Clara’s masterclass example of how to use the year’s colour palette. Opening her doors to Habitat, we’ve been able to catch a glimpse of her interiors.

Despite having previously been impressed with Clara’s use of paint, this time it was the stacking stools that caught my attention. In a post shared on Instagram, Clara explained how she uses bright, joyful colour and influences from her Ghanaian heritage in her home.

‘I just like to be surrounded by colour. Something's always gotta pop,’ said Clara, talking about her home's interior's.

‘These stools in particular, are very good for that. These are definite standout pieces for when I’ve invited maybe too many people into my home. So, these come in very very useful from Habitat.

Available in red, cream, mustard and green, the stool's colourways have a slightly muted, retro look. I like how the fabric cushion seat is coloured matched to the painted wood legs. It gives a designer look to a functional item you do not think about.

I recently raved about IKEA’S KOMPISHÄNG Stools, whose clever design allows you to turn your seating into shelving. While Habitat’s stacking stools don’t offer a dual function, they do work on the same principle. Seating can look good while taking up minimal space. And I would argue that the Habitat Sami Stool looks far more stylish.

The chairs have a manufacturer's guarantee of two years and can hold a max weight of 100kg (15st 7lbs). At £31 per stool (without discount), it can be a little pricey if you need multiple chairs, and there are sets of cheaper stacking stools, like B&Q’s set of six matt black metal stools for £40.99.

However, Habitat’s are the most stylish I’ve spotted online for under £40, so if you like its colourful retro look, I’d strongly recommend making the most of its current 20% discount.

Shop Clara's home decor

It's not just these stunning stools, Clara's snapped up from Habitat. Here are a few more striking buys you can find in her home.

Clara’s home is proof that functional design can be joyful. If you have a small space, incorporating colour via typically ‘boring’ items you can make your space look effortlessly stylish.

Celebrity chef Clodagh McKenna recently unveiled her new kitchen renovation, and there is one small detail that makes the space ooze rural charm - she’s used bunches of dried lavender to decorate, and I’m obsessed.

Rustic, country kitchens are one kitchen trend I’ll always be a fan of, and Clodagh’s newly redesigned space is a masterclass on how to nail the look. In fact, her herb decorating idea looks so good, I’m itching to try it out in my own kitchen.

But before I start stringing bunches of lavender together, I spoke to kitchen experts to get the lowdown on whether this is a good idea to use in your own kitchen. Spoiler alert: it is, and lavender is not the only plant suitable for this gorgeous decorating idea.

How to get the look

If you need rustic kitchen ideas, then you can’t miss out on seeing Clodagh’s new kitchen on Instagram. Featuring a large Belfast sink, rich dark wood finishes, a flagstone floor and open shelving, I couldn’t help but fall completely in love with it.

But hanging from the beams is my standout feature: the bunches of dried lavender. Opting for hanging her cookware from shelves and ceiling beams, Clodagh has spaced out each pot or pan with a bunch of the gorgeously scented Mediterranean plant. The finished result looks like something out of a fairytale.

‘Dried lavender can be used across the entire home, and we often see it hung up in places such as the bathroom or on doors. However, what most people don’t automatically think of is using it in the kitchen. If you have a rail above the worktop, or at the end of your cabinet or island, then lavender, along with other dried herbs, is great at adding scent as well as visual interest to the space,’ commented Ntola Obazee, creative director for Kutchenhaus.

‘It creates texture and provides a gentle scent, which is great for covering old food smells. It also has the added benefit of being a great low-maintenance alternative to flowers, which can be enjoyed for months to come.’

However, there are a few drawbacks to using lavender in your kitchen that you should be aware of before you hang your own sprigs. Kitchens are hot and humid, which are ideal conditions for mould to grow on natural material. And you should also bear in mind that lavender will lose its colour and scent over time.

‘The main concerns are exactly those you would expect in a kitchen environment. Dust, grease and moisture all affect dried flowers and herbs, and once something begins to look tired, it can detract from an otherwise beautifully designed room,’ says Caroline Montague, interior designer, author and owner of Tuscan retreat Villa Sartiano

‘I have used lavender in a stone urn in Italy, where it works well for a short period because the setting feels right and the arrangement is changed regularly. It is a lovely detail when it is fresh, but it does need attention.’

As Caroline points out, you will need to refresh your lavender semi-regularly if you want it to stay looking fresh. But if you’re looking for something lower-maintenance, she does recommend a few different herbs you can try.

‘I much prefer living herbs in a kitchen. A row of pots containing rosemary, thyme, basil or sage brings colour, texture and scent, but it also has a purpose. They are connected to cooking, which makes them feel natural in that setting,’ she says.

Ntola also points out you can hang dried herbs, too, if you want a similar look to Clodagh. Alternatively, you could even hang fake flowers as an even lower-maintenance look.

‘Sage, rosemary and thyme all dry beautifully. If you want to create a little more texture and personality in your kitchen, you could easily add in alternative bunches to give variation and interest to the space. They each give off their own unique scent, and the different leaves give variation to each bunch,’ she suggests.

While Clodagh’s lavender kitchen may require a little extra maintenance, it is truly beautiful and great inspo for a country kitchen.

If you were under the assumption that bean bags are just for children, you’d be wrong. And if you don’t believe me, let Habitat’s new Estelle Quilted Bean Bag (£120) convince you.

Last summer, I predicted that this living room seating idea would be one of the nineties trends having a comeback this year. And while I was right, I hadn’t quite anticipated that bean bags would have such a sleek, grown-up update.

As a home decor trend in 2026, Habitat’s Estelle bean bag is the perfect balance of cosy and sculptural design. It retains the original playfulness of a bean bag, whilst presenting itself as a serious seating idea.

Are bean bags cool again?

When I first saw the Habitat Estelle Quilted Bean Bag, it reminded me of Urban Outfitters’ Reema Velvet Two-Seater Floor Cushion (was £299, now £224) but at a more affordable price point. Like the Reema, Habitat’s version is large enough for you to stretch out and its low-slung shape is perfect for relaxation.

It’s said to be both light and durable, perfect for everyday use in a reading nook, bedroom or living room. And its gorgeous rust, velvet colourway gives it a seventies, retro look, which, as we know, has been a big trend this year. And it got me thinking: Are bean bags having a revival? And has Habitat just made them look grown-up and cool?

‘This particular design taps beautifully into the 1970s revival we're seeing across interiors this year. It offers a more affordable way to capture the relaxed aesthetic of the iconic Ligne Roset Togo chair, which remains one of the most recognisable pieces of furniture design. It's an easy way to introduce a touch of that laid-back seventies influence without the designer price tag,’ commented Natalie Evans, founder and CEO of home styling and staging company Little Barn Door.

As Habitat shows, bean bags can attain an almost designer look when done right and remain a comfy piece of furniture. But it is the makeover of the bean bag's image that has allowed it to break free from the shackles of playroom ideas.

‘I think bean bags have shaken off their ‘just for kids’ reputation. The newer designs we're seeing are much more considered, with quality fabrics, soft shapes and neutral colours that fit naturally into adult spaces. They're no longer something you'd hide away in a playroom. In the right setting, they can look just as stylish as an accent chair,’ adds Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert at Hillarys.

‘Comfort is a huge priority in interiors right now, which is why I think bean bags are making a comeback. People want homes that feel relaxed and easy to live in, and furniture that helps create that laid-back atmosphere is naturally becoming more popular. They're a great example of how practical pieces can still feel design-led.’

How to style a bean bag

home decor trends effectively. For Victoria, this is all about leaning into the cosy connotations of a bean bag.

‘When styling a bean bag, I'd lean into that cosy, relaxed feel. Place it in a reading corner with a floor lamp and side table, or use it to soften a living room seating arrangement. Keeping it in a fabric and colour that complements the rest of the room helps it feel intentional, rather than looking like an extra seat that's been added at the last minute,’ she says.

Natalie agrees, stating it’s best placed in a cosy corner near a record player or bookshelf. She even recommends pairing the rust colourway with teal for a playful yet stylish colour clash. And after spotting this stunning teal-patterned cushion at OKA (£65), I’m inclined to agree. And for the Habitat bean bag specifically, Natalie says it has staying power.

‘While it's clearly influenced by current trends, its simple, sculptural shape gives it versatility beyond the latest fashion. Whether it becomes a long-term classic may depend on how Habitat develops the collection, particularly if they expand the range of colours and fabrics to suit changing interior trends,’ she says.

‘For anyone wanting to embrace the current seventies aesthetic without making a significant investment, it's a stylish and accessible option that brings both comfort and character into the home.’

Have you been won over by bean bags? I know I have...

Holly Willoughby’s chilli con carne recipe reel has baffled fans on Instagram, with some asking ‘what’s that thing on the wall?’ in the background of her video in her kitchen.

If you’re one of the confused, don’t worry, you’ve landed in the right place, and Holly’s unusual contraption has actually been a pretty big kitchen trend for the past few years, as celebrities and influencers have hopped on the country kitchen trend.

I won’t keep you in suspense any longer. What Holly has is a pot filler, and while traditionally you spot these in a working professional kitchen, they’re becoming more and more popular in domestic homes. Here’s why.

Holly frequently shares glimpses of her personal life and home across social media, so sharing one of her recipes is not unusual. And eagle-eyed fans were quick to offer their own cooking suggestions and, of course, praise her kitchen. But one comment in particular stood out to us.

‘What’s that thing on the wall?’

While we’ve established it is a pot filler, it’s time to get into exactly what it means and how a pot filler can impact your kitchen. In short, a pot filler is a tap that sits above your oven, so you don’t have to lug heavy pots of water from your sink to your stove, thus making the cooking process easier and more efficient.

‘The pot filler remains a functional kitchen update for anyone who loves to cook from home. Designed to deliver a greater water flow per minute, a pot filler promises a faster fill so you can easily use your larger pots to cook with, as typically, this style of tap is positioned above the cooktop,’ comments Paul Illingworth, design manager at Adobe.

Are pot fillers trending?

‘Pot fillers have definitely become more visible this year, especially as people are putting more focus on making kitchens work better for how they actually cook. It's a feature lots of people haven't really seen before either, so videos on social media (like Holly's) tend to gain a bit of attention,' says Dean Harper, chef at Harper Fine Dining.

'It's one of those things where you wouldn't think about it until you see it, then you immediately understand the appeal of having a tap directly above the hob. It’s a feature that feels like it belongs in a professional kitchen, but it’s becoming more accessible in high-end home kitchens too.

‘The main reason they’re becoming more popular is that they solve a very specific cooking problem. If you regularly cook things like pasta, soups, stews, sauces, or large batches of food, moving a heavy pot full of water from the sink to the hob can be awkward. A pot filler removes that step by allowing you to fill the pan exactly where you’re going to cook.’

The main reason people invest in pot fillers is that they make cooking easier and more efficient. They also make a kitchen look instantly ‘high-end’ so it’s easy to see how the aesthetics of a pot filler can play into the decision to include one in your kitchen renovation.

Pot fillers have been a fairly US-centric trend, due to the fact that UK kitchens tend to be on the smaller side. But if you’re planning a kitchen renovation, they are a great way to elevate your space and make it look more expensive. It’s also more affordable to fit one during a renovation.

‘If you’re fitting one during a kitchen renovation, it’s much easier because the walls are already being worked on. Retrofitting one into an existing kitchen can cost more because a plumber may need to access pipework behind the wall,’ explains Dean.

‘The tap itself can range from around £100 for a basic model to several hundred pounds or more for higher-end versions. Installation costs vary depending on the complexity, but homeowners should expect to budget several hundred pounds for professional fitting. It’s important to use a qualified plumber because a leak behind a wall can cause significant damage if the fitting isn’t done properly.’

Alternatively, if you don’t have the space or finances to fit a pot filler. Here are some affordable buys to instantly elevate your cooking space.

Shop the luxe look for less

If you were confused by the purpose of Holly’s extra tap, I hope this has cleared it up for you. The question is now: would you fit one in your own kitchen?

Although it may feel like summer is endless right now, I’m here to break it to you that now is the time to start preparing your colder for colder, wetter weather ahead.

I know it’s still baking hot for most of the country, but the arrival of Aldi’s new Winter Greenhouse (£14.99) has me considering whether now is the right time to start prepping gardens for autumn. At the very least, Aldi’s budget winter greenhouse is worth snapping up now before the temperature drops and demand rises.

If you’re one of those organised gardeners who keeps a close eye on the seasons, consider adding this winter greenhouse to your shopping list as one of those garden jobs you should do in August. How does that saying go? Fail to prepare…

Gardening in August is mainly about preparing for autumn. There are plants to cut back for a final flush of flowers at the start of the new season, plant crops that thrive in cooler conditions, and of course, it’s time to start harvesting your crops. It’s a transitional period, which is why it’s a good opportunity to start thinking about the months ahead.

Landing in store on 13 August, the Aldi Winter Greenhouse has dropped as part of the supermarket’s Garden Tidy range, which has launched so that shoppers can get their gardens ready for winter on a budget.

The greenhouse is designed to give vulnerable plants and shrubs a ‘cosy home’ during winter. It will shield your plants from harsh elements to ensure they bloom again in spring. The greenhouse also looks very easy to set up, with all you need to do is peg it out like a tent. If you have delicate bedded plants and shrubs, it looks like you can pitch the greenhouse directly over your vulnerable plants.

It has a roll-up door for easy access and is a great option if you lack the space for a permanent greenhouse structure. What I will say is that Aldi hasn’t said how much heat this greenhouse retains. Typically, an unheated greenhouse remains two to five degrees warmer than the outside temperature overnight and up to 20 degrees warmer on bright, sunny days. This will protect your plants from frost.

However, if the temperature inside your greenhouse drops below five degrees, your plants are at risk. So, you’ll also want to explore other options such as using plant fleece and insulating your greenhouse if it needs it.

Alternatively, I’ve found a few more highly-rated pop-up winter greenhouses that shoppers swear by to protect their plants.

Have you started planning for your autumn and winter garden yet? Or has this Aldi buy just inspired you to start?

Ever since I spotted Shirlie and Martin Kemp’s stunning pumpkin archway on Instagram, I’ve been so excited for Autumn. So, I’ve asked gardening experts how we can get the look, too.

Pumpkins are the hallmark of any autumn decorating idea, and you can’t really get any more authentic than growing your own pumpkins just in time for cosy soup season. Plus, they’re also a vegetable you can grow vertically, hence why pumpkin arches are typically spotted in small gardens and allotments.

The Kemps frequently share glimpses into their stunning Hertfordshire garden, and their pumpkin archway is the latest piece of garden inspo to make the grid. If you’re also fed up with the constant heat and are looking forward to the season ahead, read on to find out how you can create a statement archway, too.

Pumpkin archways have become increasingly popular in recent years. It was only this time last year when Stacey Solomon’s pumpkin doorscape completely blew us away. Martin and Shirlie’s is a little more subtle than hers, but I’d argue it is more attainable.

Celebrity couple Martin and Shirlie Kemp’s garden is truly stunning. Uploading updates to their home Instagram account @maisonnumber9, their garden has somehow thrived despite the summer’s baking heatwaves.

And it’s clear they’ve been thinking ahead, too, if their pumpkin arch is anything to go by. Using a sturdy arch structure, like this £9.99 metal trellis from B&Q, they’ve trained their pumpkin to grow vertically over its support. It may sound complicated, but it’s actually a very well-known small garden idea, and one you can achieve quite easily with the right technique.

How to make a pumpkin arch

However, don’t expect to grow a pumpkin arch this year if you haven’t planted any yet. The best time to plant pumpkins for a Halloween harvest is mid-April to May. But if you do hope to recreate Martin and Shirlie’s arch, now is a good time to start prepping.

‘I can completely understand why pumpkin arches have become so popular in recent years. They transform a practical crop into something really eye-catching, creating a beautiful feature in the garden while making the most of the space available. There's something quite magical about walking beneath a canopy of large leaves and hanging pumpkins, and they offer that perfect blend of ornamental and edible gardening,’ comments Luke Newnes, gardening expert at Hillarys.

‘For gardeners thinking ahead, August is a great time to prepare the area where you plan to grow a pumpkin arch next year. I'd focus on improving the soil with plenty of organic matter, as pumpkins are hungry plants that thrive in rich, fertile conditions. If you already have pumpkins growing, August is the time to keep training the vines, watering consistently and encouraging healthy growth.’

As Luke mentions, if you do have pumpkins growing right now, you can start training the vines and begin to attain your archway. For this, you’ll need some cable ties (like £5.99 green cable ties from Amazon) to help keep the vines in place.

When it comes to training pumpkins up an arch or trellis, I find it's best to start while the vines are still young and flexible. I gently weave the stems through the structure as they grow, helping them find the direction I want them to take. It's important not to rush or force the stems, as they can be surprisingly fragile. Once they're established, they tend to continue climbing quite happily on their own,’ says Luke.

Then, it’s all about ensuring your pumpkin is well supported to reduce pressure on the vines. In fact, a few comments in Kemp's comment section suggest using old tights to support the fruit - and it turns out to be a really handy tip!

‘Pumpkins don’t naturally climb like some other vines, so you'll need to guide the main stems upwards as they grow and loosely tie them to the arch using soft garden ties or strips of fabric. Avoid tying too tightly because the stems will thicken as they mature,’ says Dr Russell Sharp, founder of Eutrema.

‘Once the pumpkins start forming, support the fruit with slings made from old tights, netting or fabric bags to take the pressure off the vines. The aim isn’t to force the plant into a perfect shape, but to guide it upwards while allowing it to grow naturally. With regular checks and support, the arch will gradually become covered with foliage and hanging fruit.

What you need

A pumpkin arch can add some extra height and structure to your garden while taking up minimal planting space. Will you be giving it a try?

Queer Eye fans buckle up! Tan France has released his first collection of furniture and homeware, created in collaboration with Castlery. The Tan France x Castlery range includes 18 products, each designed by Tan himself in partnership with the furniture brand.

While Tan is known primarily as the fashion expert and stylist on the popular TV show Queer Eye, he’s been active in the home and interiors space, too, especially since renovating his gorgeous Salt Lake City home, all documented in detail by Architectural Digest – from Tan’s choice of kitchen worktops to the exact paint shades in every room. So a full homeware collection designed by Tan is an exciting prospect – and one that did not disappoint as it’s stylish, unique and full of thoughtful details.

The range is already available to shop online now, but as a fan of Tan's home already, I couldn't resist asking him which pieces he’s most obsessed with and which already have a place in his home.

What to expect from the range

Tan’s British-Pakistani heritage was the main source of inspiration behind the look and the motifs of the pieces. ‘The scalloped details from South Asia and England are something that I saw dotted around my house, but also around the UK on what were traditional English buildings,’ Tan told Ideal Home. ‘That was the main inspiration behind the collection. I wanted the collection to feel so singular. One that could truly have only been created by me, so using my two cultural touch points felt like the right jumping off point.’

These references are obvious in everything from the engravings on the legs of the Anaya tea table - that’s right, no coffee table here - to the shape of the Anika table lamp and the aforementioned scalloping of the Rayan mirror.

Originally from Singapore, Castlery (much like Tan) is a very international brand. So the partnership was a good fit for both sides. ‘Before I joined them for the collaboration, I went to visit their store in Singapore to make sure I loved the quality and that this was going to be the right fit for me. I'm over the moon with how it all went. They agreed to let me design whatever I wanted to, as opposed to selecting new colours and fabrics of what they already make, which was a major plus point for me,’ Tan says.

Tan’s top pieces

Even though Tan has designed every single piece in the range and therefore loves them all, of course, there are a handful of products that stand out even in his eyes, including the iconic-looking modular sofa called the Kagan sofa, defined by wood panel inserts and carved, vintage-style wooden legs.

‘I am obsessed with my lamp. I think it's the perfect balance of play and sophistication to bring newness to any space. And I'm crazy about my sofa. I think the wooden details make it feel so darn unique. I have the lamps in my home already and love them. I also have the side table which I think is stunning,’ Tan says.

But he predicts it will likely be the home accessories that will be the most popular with customers, the Anika table lamp included, of course. ‘I think the accessories will be the most popular as they’re easy to style, add pops of interest and are really well priced,’ he concludes.

When I packed up and headed to university back in September 2019, the one thing my mum gave me was a Crockpot Slowcooker (£31, Argos). And now, four years later, it’s the one kitchen appliance I can’t live without.

If you have a loved one heading to university this autumn, I’d argue that one of the best slow cookers is possibly the best thing to send them off with - it definitely was for me. Slow cookers are cheap to run, make meal prep a breeze, and don’t take up as much worktop space as one of the best air fryers.

I’m always waxing lyrical about my slow cooker and how much I love using it. I genuinely whip it out every week, and now it’s the kitchen appliance I’d recommend to anyone moving out for the first time.

Until I was given a slow cooker, I didn’t really see their merit, to be honest. If I’m being really honest, coming home from school to see the slow cooker was on the side was fairly disappointing. It wasn’t until I started using my own that I realised you could make a lot more than stew.

My mum firmly told me she swore by hers, and after school stew aside, I took her advice. I’ve never looked back either. As an 18-year-old essentially let loose in London for the next three years, I had better things to do than spend my evenings slaving away behind an oven, and I really didn’t have the budget to rely on takeaways.

Here, my slow cooker maths came into play. Before heading into lectures in the morning, I could simply dump my ingredients into the cooker, set it to low, and when I arrived home I’d have a hot meal waiting for me (and leftovers to feed me over the rest of the week).

At home I’d cooked for my family, but now cooking for just myself, I found it frustrating and expensive buying ingredients only to not be able to use them all up before they went out of date. But being able to quickly batch cook in my slow cooker meant I could use all my ingredients up and leftovers could be deposited in the freezer or fridge. Now, I practically worship slow cooker dump bags, which make prep even easier, and swear by the OXO GoodGrips Silicone Bags (£20, Amazon) to do so.

Slow cookers are also really cheap to run. In fact, it’s probably your cheapest kitchen appliance, making it very student-friendly. Plus, my experience of slow cookers is that they can deepen the flavour of the dish you’re cooking. I’ve learned this the hard way by adding slightly too much spice to curries and consequently blowing my own head off.

Throughout university, I used my slow cooker to make a range of dishes from bolognese, curries and casseroles to mulled wine at Christmas and joints of pulled pork for dinner parties and BBQs during the summer.

Now aged 25, I still use the same Crockpot on a weekly basis. It is genuinely my favourite kitchen appliance. And while I keep thinking I need to upgrade my slow cooker (I’ve been looking at the Ninja Foodi 8-in-1 8L Possible Cooker, was £150, now £120 at Argos), I can’t quite bring myself to part with my trusty Crockpot.

My mum was absolutely right in gifting me a slow cooker over any other kitchen appliance or utensil when I headed off to uni seven years ago. I now recommend the same appliance to all my friends and extend the same recommendation to any freshers this year.

Shark has just dropped four ‘Luxe’ colourways of its uber-popular PowerDetect UV Reveal Robot Vacuum (£1039.99 at Shark). And as the proud owner of the OG black colourway, I must admit that I’m a little jealous of this chic, aesthetic upgrade.

This handy, hands-free model has already staked its claim in my best robot vacuum cleaner guide thanks to its impressive suction power, squeaky-clean mopping ability, and the ridiculously smart UV Reveal technology that uncovers hidden stains on your floors. But while I’ve used it every day since testing it, the black colourway has always been a bit… meh.

These four new colourways are designed to fight back against the traditional black-and-white appliance trend, though. They will work with your home decor and will suit those who want their appliances to be a showpiece in their home - and I think they clean up very nicely.

Adding Evergreen, Espresso, Dove, and Deep Harbour colourways to the roster, Shark has broken away from the ‘ugly’ and ‘boring’ home appliances we’re used to. And luxurious upgrades like this are something I’ve rarely seen in my time as Ideal Home’s Certified Expert in Vacuums. Most of the time, robot vacuums are an addition to the home, rather than a well-thought-out inclusion.

And while I gave the PowerDetect UV Reveal Robot Vacuum an almost perfect 4.5-star review for its mess-busting performance, one of my biggest niggles was that the black colourway was a magnet for dust and dirt. As a lover of colourful, chic home decor, it was also impossible to tuck in the corner without it sticking out like a sore thumb.

However, the brand describes this new Luxe Collection as ‘Elevated design meets exceptional performance - now in a premium finish crafted to live beautifully in your home.’

This is a smart move on Shark’s part, as it’s difficult to hide a robot vacuum cleaner at the best of times. But it’s even harder when a robot vacuum clashes so much with your interior decor. So, offering customers the chance to choose a colour that forms part of their interior decor opens up a whole new world of cleaning capabilities - without compromising on style.

And the good news is that Shark has used an existing robot vacuum cleaner to experiment with this new ‘Luxe’ look, instead of launching an entirely new model. This means that expert vacuum testers like myself have already tested its cleaning power and rated it pretty positively, and customers have already had their chance to independently review it, too.

The bad news is that those people (like me) who already own the black or white colourway are now stuck with these monochromatic colours. Plus, the ‘Luxe’ colourways also come at a premium price and will set you back an extra £40, taking the price point over £1,000.

This means it's really an investment piece rather than a throwaway purchase, but one of the things I’ve learned while testing robot vacuum cleaners is that if you buy cheap, you often buy twice. Premium models typically offer more in terms of functionalities, quality, and overall cleaning power, and the Shark PowerDetect UV Reveal Robot Vacuum is one of them.

Just be warned that every appliance has limitations, and Shark robot vacuums famously offer a very basic app with basic floor mapping. Personally, I find the app to be refreshingly simple compared to overly complicated competitors, but the brand does cut out customers who want to clean both levels of their homes by not offering multi-floor mapping. Even luxurious colourways can’t make up for that.

But even if a robot vacuum doesn’t work for your home, Shark also has ‘Luxe’ colourways in their cordless Shark PowerDetect Speed Vacuum Cleaner, too. I gave this full-size vacuum cleaner an impressive 5-star review - and the new colourways are slightly different, so may suit your home better.

My vote is that ‘Espresso’ will be the ‘it’ colour of the year....

Everyone knows and loves IKEA’s BILLY Bookcase. The simple yet versatile buy is a cult classic for good reason. But did you know there are other versions of this fan-favourite available, including a clever design that has a foldable desk stashed inside it?

If you had no idea that you didn't need an IKEA hack to turn your BILLY Bookcase into a desk, don’t worry. I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t realise quite how extensive IKEA’s BILLY series is, until I stumbled across the BILLY Bookcase with a foldable table while searching for clever ways to create the perfect workspace at home.

At the start of the year, I relocated to move in with my partner. With the relocation came a lot more days spent working from home, as travelling to my office is now not as accessible as it once was.

It’s just the two of us at home, so we have the luxury of using the spare bedroom as a dedicated home office space. This meant my ‘WFH’ set up used to be a dream – I had my own productive space, with the ability to shut the door on my working environment once the day was done.

However, when my partner recently accepted a new remote-based job, we suddenly found ourselves scrambling for a solution that meant we would both be able to comfortably work from home, without compromising our style.

Given that I spend all day reading and writing about home decor and clever storage solutions for small spaces, I really didn’t want our new desk to always be on show. And I wanted to avoid (as much as possible) turning existing living areas into makeshift offices.

So, rather than settling on the obvious – like both trying to cram into the existing office room, or setting up our screens on the kitchen table – we stumbled across the multifunctional buy from IKEA that has levelled up our work from home days.

On first glance, this version of the BILLY bookcase looks just like a slightly smaller version of the original. But, with a simple pull of the bottom two drawers, it quickly transforms from a handy storage unit to a spacious desk. This means I can enjoy the pleasure of a comfortable workspace, without the need to always have a desk set up.

The three shelves on the unit are deep and durable enough to house a number of knick-knacks – from books and candles, to blankets and flowers. I have my bookcase set up in the corner of my living room, and it’s filled what was an empty space with homely decor and visual interest.

Then, when the working day begins, the drawers extend out into a desk that is plenty big enough for my day-to-day tasks. The gap for a chair is roomy enough for a proper office chair – although I use one similar to this from IKEA, because it’s easier to store out of sight and just as comfortable. Plus, there is plenty of space to run an extension lead underneath for access to any wires, chargers or cables you might need.

The BILLY desk comes equipped with wheels, to make the transition from shelving to workspace as seamless as possible. On the IKEA site, you’ll see the wheels facing outwards. However, we assembled ours with the wheels on the other side. This means that when the desk is folded away, the wheels disappear with it, so you’d never know it’s anything more than just a bookshelf. And the best part is, the desk still pulls out without any trouble at all.

There are still many ways that I want to transform my BILLY desk. For instance, I need to find a clever way to hide the wires in my home office, and I’m on the hunt for a bold print to hang above the unit. But, on the whole it’s done the hard work for me and completely upgraded the way my partner and I can work from home.

And, it’s not just limited to home workspace environments either. This variation of the BILLY would work well with children’s small bedroom ideas, or as a craft table for hobby enthusiasts. No matter how you use and style it, it’s a hidden gem that I just can’t get enough of.

Smart work from home accessories

Streamline your WFH set up even further with these smart buys.

I'm calling it. Habitat has just launched a new £230 chair bed, and I think this on-trend design will become an instant bestseller.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the last five years testing some of the best chair beds on the market, and, if you're looking for a space-saving overnight hosting solution, this affordable design is definitely one to have on your radar.

Cute, curvy, and ideal for small homes, Habitat's Benji Chair Bed also nails one of the year's biggest furniture trends.

Habitat already makes one of the best value chair beds you can shop. The brand's super-popular Roma Chair Bed has been a bestseller for years, and with prices starting from under £200 for the single sleeper, it's easy to see why.

However, the new Benji chair bed adds something new to the mix: namely, some designer curves.

Its rounded backrest nails one of this year's biggest furniture trends, and makes it even more of a style statement in the home.

According to interior experts, as we move into the last half of 2026 and start looking towards 2027, boxy furniture is falling out of fashion and being replaced by more organic designs.

As Shelley Cochrane, buyer at Furniture Village, explains, this new look is all about 'rounded edges, curved designs and organic shapes.'

Plus, as Shelley explains, those organic shapes are perfect for a piece of furniture where relaxation is ultimately the name of the game.

'Curves are gentler and less rigid than straight lines,' says Shelley, 'and rounded edges create a soft and inviting atmosphere.'

Habitat isn't the first brand to bring designer curves to the high street: the recently launched Next Palma Chair Bed offers a similar curvaceous design.

However, Habitat is now the brand that does it most affordably. The Next Palma Chair Bed currently costs £375, whereas Habitat's Benji Chair Bed has launched at a *very* affordable £230.

That's nearly a £150 price difference, which I think means the Habitat Benji will quickly become a bestseller among those looking for a compact overnight guest bed.

And of course, these two curved chair beds aren't the only options worth having on your radar.

If you're happy with straighter edges, it's also well worth considering these three alternative buys.

Shop alternatives

With August here, thousands of students (and parents) will be planning for a fresh year of university or embarking on life in shared halls for the first time. Dunelm has made that process a little easier with the introduction of its new £29 Kitchen Starter Pack, designed to take the stress of out of the big move.

Kitted out with everything a student needs to make a start with cooking and meal prepping solo, this handy kit has all the basics covered including a saucepan and frying pan, as well as essentials tailor made for oven-pizzas, stir-fries and soups. All good student staples!

Here's a closer look at everything you can pick up for your shared kitchen in one neat box with this starter pack.

Dunelm has a surprising wealth of cookware treasures, including their cast iron casseroles which earned a glowing review from our in-house Home Economist. But rather than a heavy roaster, this set prioritises lightweight cookware essentials that pack neatly into one box. Seeing as most student halls can be very tight on space, this all-in-one approach is not only great for money saving but for keeping things tidy too.

Starting with pots and pans, this set consists of an 18cm saucepan alongside a 25cm frying pan. This should cover most needs capacity-wise when cooking for one. Alongside that there's a 32cm baking sheet and a separate 33cm pizza tray – ideal for a fast dinner with that emergency pizza that students love to keep in the freezer.

There's a wide range of handy accessories too. My favourite might be the spaghetti spoon, which has a built-in measuring element so that you don't end up with triple the amount of pasta you need. I could've definitely done with one during my first foray into cooking in my first year.

You'll also find a slotted turner, solid spoon utensil, kitchen scissors, a hand grater, bottle opener and tongs within the box. The chopping board is another absolute essential that's thrown in.

Prep boxes for university have become ever more popular in recent years and can help cut costs if you need to buy everything from scratch. IKEA's Student Box is a hit every year, though I can't see signs of it being available to buy just yet. The Swedish brand is a failsafe for good student cookware all year-round – our five-star review of the IKEA HEMKMOST 7-piece cookware set proves that. It's a great pick for a student who is very culinary-minded.

If you like the idea of ticking uni essentials off your list in one fell swoop, there are plenty of other areas that Dunelm has covered with various all-in-one sets.

If you want to get ahead of your to-do list ahead of September, these clever kits seem the perfect place to start. I wish I'd been as organised for my first term fending for myself!

It’s not just your outdoor plants that may have been struggling with the hot weather this summer. Your indoor plants may be suffering, too. And if this is the case in your household, don’t worry, as plant experts have revealed five heat-proof houseplants that will happily flourish in a hot south-facing window.

In my experience, the best houseplants can really make a house feel like a home. So it really is heartbreaking when they shrivel up and die. Your favourite plants dying doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a bad plant parent, but if your home is particularly hot and stuffy during summer, you may be choosing the wrong species.

As the UK experiences a record-breaking, hot summer, experts are recommending these five houseplants that thrive in warm, sunny spots.

1. Snake plant

Snake plants are widely regarded as an ‘unkillable houseplant’, which always bodes well when hunting for houseplants that can withstand high temperatures. Plus, this air-purifying plant is also great at getting rid of dust, too!

‘Originating from arid African climates, snake plants are perfect for hot, south-facing rooms as they not only thrive in warm temperatures, but they store water in their thick leaves, which makes them able to cope well in intense heat and dry air. This also makes them very drought-tolerant, with you usually only needing to water them every two or three weeks during the summer. However, in extreme weather the frequency will need to increase to every one or two weeks, always remembering to check the moisture level in the soil first and only water when it is dry,’ says Lucie Bradley, gardens and greenhouse expert at Easy Garden Irrigation.

‘If you do have continuous, intense sunlight entering your room and your snake plant is on the windowsill, its leaves could be scorched, so if you can move it back from the windowsill or add a sheer curtain, this would prevent any sun damage.’

2. Jade plant

Also known as a money plant, according to Feng Shui, a Jade plant can help welcome wealth and prosperity into your home - provided you know where to place this lucky houseplant!

‘The Jade plant is one of the most tolerant when it comes to sun in the home. It thrives in sunlight, can sit in direct sun and tolerates dry indoor air. They require little maintenance and only need watering when the soil is completely dry,’ says Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.

3. Ponytail palm

Ponytail palms can go weeks without being watered, making them one of the best houseplants for forgetful plant parents. Plus, its streaming green leaves and thick trunk make a visually stunning display, too.

‘Originating from eastern Mexico has meant the Ponytail Palm has evolved so that it can cope in intense heat and long periods of drought. Its bulbous base acts as a built-in water reservoir, meaning it only needs watering once a month during the summer months, whilst its narrow, curling leaves have developed so that it loses very little water through evaporation or transpiration,’ explains Lucie.

4. Crown of thorns

A crown of thorns is an excellent hardy houseplant that blooms all year round if given the correct care. It can be grown indoors and outdoors. Originally from Madagascar, a crown of thorns plant produces stunning red, pink or white flowers. It is toxic to dogs, so not suitable for households that have pets.

‘If given enough light, this houseplant can bloom for most of the year as long as it has enough light. It loves warm and sunny conditions and can produce clusters of colourful flowers continuously when it receives four to six hours of sunlight a day. Avoid overwatering and allow the soil to dry out between watering,’ says Chris.

5. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is one of the best air-purifying plants, as well as reducing damp and condensation, making it one of the best houseplants for bathrooms.

‘Aloe Vera has adapted to thrive in high heat and intense light, so this combined with its ability to store lots of water, makes it an exceptionally low-maintenance plant that is perfect for positioning in a hot, south-facing room in your house. It will thrive where it gets plenty of natural sunlight and only needs to be watered when the top 5cm of soil is dry, which usually occurs every 14 to 21 days during the summer months,’ says Lucie.

‘The only thing to be mindful of is if your plant is consistently in extreme heat, when temperatures are consistently above 29 degrees celcius, you should stop feeding your Aloe Vera as extreme heat will slow its growth. In addition, you may need to move the plant further away from direct light and ensure it is in a well-ventilated area.’

Do you have any of these heat-loving houseplants in your home?

If you’re struggling to get rid of flies this summer, then why not try making a yeast trap? And yes, you can use the affordable, fast-acting yeast you can pick up in the supermarket.

One of the main downsides of summer is the large swarms of flies that try to set up shop in your home and garden. If these buzzing pests are driving you bonkers right now, don’t worry, there are plenty of effective ways to get rid of flies.

This includes making a yeast trap. By mixing sugar and yeast, you can make an irresistible trap flies are drawn to. I asked a pest expert for his top tips on making the trap as effective as possible.

You’ll probably already be aware of the cider vinegar trap, which is excellent at getting rid of fruit flies from your kitchen. But did you know that a yeast and sugar mix works just as well?

‘Take a plastic bottle and cut the top third off. Mix warm water with a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of active dry yeast in the bottom section and stir briefly. Invert the cut top section into the bottle to create a funnel and secure it with tape. The funnel directs flies in but makes it very difficult for them to find their way back out. Place it in the area where you are seeing the most fly activity, near a bin, fruit bowl or outdoor seating area,’ explains Mosh Latifi, Co-Owner, EcoCare Pest Management.

‘The fermenting yeast produces carbon dioxide and warm, sweet-smelling vapour that mimics the signals flies associate with food and organic matter. Flies are drawn in through the funnel opening, become disorientated inside the bottle and cannot locate the exit. The funnel shape is key. It works because flies instinctively fly upward to escape, and the narrowing funnel prevents them from finding the opening they entered through.’

Is this a good method to use?

The yeast and sugar hack is a really easy and affordable trick that works. It is the CO2 in the fermenting yeast that attracts the flies; however, you need to ensure you use a fresh mixture that is actively fermenting. Because of this, you’ll want to replace the trap every two to three days and get rid of your captured flies during this time.

‘If you are catching a significant number of flies, the simplest approach is to dispose of the whole bottle and make a fresh one. If you want to reuse the bottle, seal it in a bag before opening to prevent flies escaping, rinse thoroughly and make a fresh mixture. The whole setup costs pennies to make and replace,’ adds Mosh.

The main drawback of this method is that it doesn’t eliminate the source of your fly infestation. It’s worth looking into ways to stop flies coming into your home and trying preventative measures such as scents flies hate or plants that deter flies to make your home as unwelcoming as possible. You should remove all food sources and attractants such as old sponges and stinky bins. If the problem persists, it is a good idea to consult a professional.

‘It [the method] is genuinely effective, completely chemical-free and costs almost nothing. The limitation is that it catches individual flies rather than addressing the breeding source. If you have a significant fly problem, track down where they are breeding - a drain, a bin or uncovered food waste - and address that alongside the trap. Used together, the trap catches adults while removing the source reduces the next generation,’ Mosh concludes.

If you’re looking for an easy, cheap and most importantly effective way to get rid of flies this summer, give this yeast trap a try.

A kitchen island is a wishlist item for many, and Argos Home has just dropped a space-saving, budget-friendly alternative that’s perfect for small kitchens. The Argos Home Squares Wooden Bar Island (£180) is perfect for achieving that dream kitchen look without breaking the bank.

There is no shortage of stunning kitchen island ideas. We want our kitchens to be functional spaces, used for eating, socialising and, of course, cooking - and a well-placed kitchen island can easily fulfil each of these needs.

The unfortunate thing about kitchen islands is that a bespoke unit can quickly rack up in price. This is where Argos’s bar island on wheels comes in handy. Its portable nature lends itself well to smaller spaces and ensures you can tailor it to exactly how you need it.

Free-standing kitchen islands are one of the easiest ways to add extra storage to a small kitchen. Despite kitchen islands remaining one of the most desirable features you can add to a kitchen, if you lack space or the budget for a renovation, they can be difficult to incorporate into your existing layout.

This is where a unit such as Argos Home’s new Wooden Bar Island comes in handy. Describing itself as a space for food prep, a spare table, and a mini-pantry all in one, this movable kitchen island has plenty of clever storage features to maximise space.

It has an integrated spice rack, boxy shelving for storing plates, glasses and dry goods, and most impressively, the unit pulls out when you need extra space. The wood top swivels outward, creating what Argos calls an extra breakfast bar. When not in use, it neatly tucks away again.

It’s a unique kitchen storage idea that actively works with small kitchens. If you lack the space for a large island that can double up as somewhere to dine, this pull-out alternative is an excellent idea.

'Even with a smaller footprint, it's still entirely possible (and useful) to add a kitchen island. While many freestanding ones are still large, this Argos choice is ideal for compact kitchens and super affordable compared to others on the market. The pull-out design means that you can keep stools tucked away when not in use, making your floor space more functional day to day,' said Holly Cockburn, Kitchens and Bathrooms Editor at Ideal Home.

Plus, it doesn’t compromise on style either. The stylish oak wood-effect top and white-painted body have a classic country kitchen look, which should integrate nicely into most styles, meaning you don’t have to worry about changing your existing kitchen colour scheme for it to suit.

The unit is also wipe-clean, making clean-up easy for busy families and messy kids. It has a manufacturer's guarantee of one year. The measurements are H100, W45, D120cmL120cm, and when the table is extended, it is 178.5cm long.

Alternatively, here are a few more free-standing kitchen islands you can shop for at Argos right now.

Argos Home's new kitchen island is at a fantastic price, and if you've been looking for something that provides the benefit of a kitchen island without sacrificing space, it's a great choice.

I've been reviewing air fryers here at Ideal Home since 2022 – a dream job for someone who loves cooking all sorts of things but is very much partial to an oven chip.

It's hard to think of a cooking appliance that's had an impact as big in our kitchens in the last decade as the air fryer. Time-saving, more convenient to use than an oven, and guaranteed to give you a crispier end result, they've become a staple of homes up and down the UK.

And seeing as I get pretty much all of my home advice and vision from my esteemed colleagues at Ideal Home, I thought it was high time I took a peek at how they're using and storing their air fryers, too, for a healthy dose of inspiration. Here's how they've integrated these 'ugly' but super useful appliances into their homes.

Heather Young - Editor-in-Chief

I draw endless inspiration from our Editor-in-Chief Heather's home, especially her gorgeous kitchen which is packed full of hidden features to make everyday life easier. One of those clever hacks is how she uses her air fryer to maximise use and minimise worktop scratches.

Heather swears by the Instant Pot Duo Crisp (£229.99 via Amazon), which is a multi-cooker, arguably a better space saver than a standard air fryer. With 12 different functions in total it means she can save space over investing in many different appliances. It's a slow cooker, steamer, air fryer, pressure cooker and more in one but its footprint is relatively small.

But that's not all. To make using her multi-cooker even more convenient, Heather also added castor wheels to the bottom of the pot which allow her to move it across her worktop.

That means cleaning around it or taking it out of a storage spot instantly becomes easier, especially if you're tucking it into a pantry like Heather . If you have a hidden mini kitchen appliance garage, this under £10 hack could be a game changer for you.

Rebecca Knight - Editor, Digital

After buying her Victorian flat conversion last year, our Editor has been sharing her home improvement progress including her living room makeover and outdoor hosting upgrades. But one thing that has stayed the same is her air fryer.

'I have the Ninja Dual Zone,' says Becky. 'I know everyone says it's meant to be ugly, but I find its boxy shape and black matte finish just disappear into the background on my kitchen worktop.'

I think this Ninja air fryer remains the most popular pick in the UK despite being released years ago. And when I recently retested it to see if it still holds up against newer releases, I found that it was still as supremely powerful as I remembered.

Becky has adopted Heather's castor wheels hack too, so that she can 'push it right to the back of the counter out of the way when not in use' in her kitchen.

Holly Cockburn - Content Editor, Kitchens and Bathrooms

As my fellow Kitchens Editor who knows exactly which trends to follow, Holly is much less of an appliance or gadget fan than I am – favouring a clear worktop over anything else. Our usual dynamic is that I'll recommend something to Holly for a few years (in this case, an air fryer) and she'll take up the advice when there's one that actually looks good.

Enter: the Wonder Oven (£195 at Our Place). This was the one that finally persuaded her over to the air frying side, and it's little surprise with its pastel colour way and tiny footprint.

When I reviewed this air fryer I called it the prettiest option on the market and I think it still is even two years later. It's also a fabulous choice for anyone who prefers a screen-free appliance – this air fryer is wholly controlled by the three dials on the front.

Molly Cleary – Kitchen Appliances Editor

I've tested many air fryers over the years but the one that suits my small kitchen best is the Ninja DoubleStack in white (£269.99 from Currys). It has similar levels of power to Ninja's dual-drawer models but is much kinder on worktop space which is always at a premium with all of the cooking gadgets I'm usually testing.

The colour range of Ninja's air fryers makes them very appealing to me, alongside the sheer power. The control panel is also the easiest I've found out there.

If you like the idea of a stacked air fryer for space but you're on a tight budget then Salter's £99 alternative went down a treat with our reviewer Annie when she tried it.

The range of air fryers within the Ideal Home team just shows how picking the right appliance for your kitchen is a very personal thing. What are your must-have features or hacks when picking out an air fryer?

From hydration stations, bird bars and even wildlife wineries, there are plenty of cutesy names to call the bird baths we set up for wildlife to bathe, drink and play in during summer. However, if you have a tiny garden or balcony, it might feel like you can’t join in.

Luckily, I’m here to tell you the opposite. Corner bird baths are the space-saving solution that means even the smallest of outdoor spaces can attract birds via their own wildlife wineries (or whatever your preferred name is!).

Silly names aside, during periods of hot weather and drought, it’s incredibly important to leave water out for birds and other wildlife to help them stay healthy and hydrated. Here’s why a corner bird bath can be a great option if you’re short on space.

Just because you have a small garden, it doesn’t mean you can’t embrace wildlife garden ideas. Leaving out water is essential during summer for birds, bees, insects and other wildlife - especially when there hasn’t been much rainfall.

This summer, wildlife charities, experts and social media have been encouraging gardeners to set up hydration stations for birds and other wildlife during a heatwave. And with it, I've seen a host of adorable names, such as pollinator pitstops, bee bars and now wildlife wineries. While they all mean the same thing, they aim to encourage us to help wildlife by providing fresh water.

If you want to support birds in hot weather, offering a fresh water supply can be a real help when supplies are scarce in nature. You will need to change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh and free from algae and mosquitoes, but your local birds will really benefit from having somewhere to wash, bathe and space.

If you lack the space for a free-standing bird bath, a corner bath can come in handy. As the name suggests, a corner bird bath attaches to a fence post or corner, taking up minimal space in your garden

Then, you can fill it with either water or bird food to create an integrated feeding station or bird bath. One of the biggest mistakes you can make when leaving water out for wildlife is assuming you need a large vessel. Even a small dish of water can make a big difference for wildlife. Just remember, if you want bees to also enjoy your wildlife winery, add some pebbles to your dish so they have somewhere to land and prevent drowning.

Alternatively, a micro pond can be a great choice for courtyards and patios as you can create a stunning water feature that wildlife will love.

Small wildlife garden essentials

Just because you have a small garden, it doesn't mean you can't make into a haven for wildlife.

The Big Butterfly Count needs just 15 minutes of your time this week as the wildlife survey seeks to gain a better understanding of the UK’s butterfly populations, so scientists can help them in the future.

Who wouldn’t want to attract butterflies to their gardens? Not only are these winged insects incredibly beautiful to spot, but they’re vital pollinators, too. But butterfly populations in the UK have significantly declined since the 1970s, and they need your help.

Plus, butterfly declines are also an early warning for other wildlife loss, making the Big Butterfly Count an important way to help every critter in your wildlife garden. Here’s everything you need to get involved.

What is the Big Butterfly Count?

The Big Butterfly Count is run by the wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation and runs from 17 July to 9 August, making this the last week to get involved. And you really should, as Butterfly Conservation says the UK is currently in a butterfly emergency.

The survey was launched back in 2010 and has since become the world's largest survey of butterflies. It’s important to get involved as butterflies are biodiversity indicators for scientists. This means that butterflies react very quickly to changes in their environment. So, if butterfly populations are declining, it means that nature is in trouble.

Counting butterflies helps scientists at Butterfly Conservation assess how much help the natural world needs. It helps them identify population trends and allows them to come up with a plan to help protect this beautiful species from extinction.

How to get involved

The good news is that it’s incredibly easy to get involved with the Big Butterfly Count, and even better, it’s great fun for the whole family, too. All you have to do is head outside and count butterflies for 15 minutes during a bright, preferably sunny day.

The survey encourages records from gardens, parks, meadows, school grounds and forests so don’t worry if you don’t have a garden, you can still get involved. However, the rules are slightly different if you're counting in your garden, compared to out on a walk.

If counting from a fixed position in your garden, Butterfly Conservation says to; ‘count the maximum number of each species that you can see at a single time. For example, if you see three Red Admirals together on a buddleia bush then record it as 3, but if you only see one at a time then record it as 1 (even if you saw one on several occasions) - this is so that you don't count the same butterfly more than once.’

When on a walk, simply total up the number of each species you spot during the 15 minutes. The charity has provided a list of target butterflies and day-flying moth species they’d like you to count and can help you identify. If you spot species not on the list, you can record it using the iRecord Butterflies app. If you don’t see any butterflies, it’s important to report this too as it can indicate a wider problem in your area.

How to make your garden butterfly-friendly

As well as getting involved in the count, you can also make your garden butterfly-friendly, too. For example, plants that attract butterflies, such as agastache or lavender. Or, create your own butterfly food to give them a boost during summer.

Butterflies are a welcome sight in any garden, but sadly need our help. Spending just 15 minutes counting different species in your garden can have a huge impact on what we know about how to conserve them.

A few years ago I flew to Sweden to see IKEA’s latest homeware collection launch, and at the time, the new LINDÅKRA sofa bed was by far my favourite product.

Like a lot of IKEA’s furniture, this £499 sofa bed is designed with small-space living in mind, and I thought its multifunctional design was genius.

It was very close to being the best sofa bed I'd tested. And as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've reviewed a lot of sofa beds over the past five years, so I don't say that lightly.

However, there was one problem. I *really* didn't like the colourways IKEA had chosen to upholster it in. Luckily, two years later, this sofa bed has just been relaunched in the 'it' colour of the year, and I for one couldn’t be happier to see its new look.

The LINDÅKRA sofa bed offers a *lot* of functionality. It's a sofa, a sofa bed, and there's a detachable pouffe with hidden storage that transforms the sofa into a chaise, or can be used as a coffee table or extra guest seating.

I could see it instantly becoming a bestseller when it launched in the UK. It's perfect for those of us with small living rooms or small bedrooms, who still want to host overnight guests in style.

The only downside was those colour options. The sample on display at the press show was upholstered in *bright* orange fabric, and although it drew lots of attention at the press launch, it wasn’t a colour I could ever imagine having in my home.

Yes, I’m all in favour of statement furniture, but bright orange is a colour that’s very difficult to incorporate into most decor schemes, and I felt it would also date very quickly.

There was another ‘safer’ option: a dark grey. I didn’t hate this option, but I also didn’t love it. It felt very ‘bachelor pad’, and although there’s nothing wrong with that, it also wasn’t for me.

Two years later, as predicted, the LINDÅKRA has become one of IKEA’s most popular sofa beds. The sofa bed has a growing number of 5-star reviews on the IKEA website, and like me, its owners are clearly fans of the sofa bed's versatile, multifunctional design.

'We have a small living room, and this sofa is perfect!, says one reviewer. 'Great storage space and the fact that you can move one part around is brilliant. Plenty of space to sleep too.'

And thankfully, its popularity also means that IKEA has just relaunched it in what I think is a *far* more versatile colour.

Now upholstered in a stylish sage green upholstery, this calming colour is one of the 'it' shades of 2026. And it's a hue that interior designers and decor experts can’t get enough of.

In interiors, 'sage green has become a go-to,' says interior designer and Hutley & Humm co-founder, Melissa Hutley. 'It's very soft, versatile and easy to live with.'

'The versatility and timeless nature of sage green makes it the perfect choice for larger pieces of furniture, like a sofa,' agrees Shelley Cochrane, buyer at furniture retailer Furniture Village. 'Green is an enduringly popular colour and will never go out of style.'

And this year, 'lighter and fresher tones of green are proving to be particularly popular,' says Shelley. 'They're a great way to bring the outdoors into the home, and act as an anchor for the space, providing a calm base that allows a variety of colours, patterns and textures to be layered into the scheme.'

Of course, the LINDÅKRA isn't the only option if you want to make the most of this timeless shade.

I've rounded up some alternatives below, although it is worth noting that none of them offer *quite* as much functionality as IKEA's LINDÅKRA does

In its new on-trend upholstery, I definitely think the LINDÅKRA now truly gives the best sofa beds and best chair beds on the market a run for their money.

Shop alternatives

H&M has just given the classic dome paper lampshade a trendy new form, and I’m obsessed - it’s a cool girl take on a classic trend.

Paper lampshades have, and will continue to be, a timeless lighting trend due to their ability to diffuse harsh lighting and create a structural yet pleasing focal point when you enter a room. They’re elegant, minimalist and quintessential Japandi style.

If you’re looking to update your lighting ideas, H&M’s new paper lighting is not to be missed. They’re funky, visually interesting and will make your home look effortlessly cool.

Paper lampshades have been a lighting staple as far back as ancient China, when paper and bamboo lanterns were used in temples, festivals and celebrations. And since then, they’ve never really left the lighting chat. Now paper lampshades are a cheap and easy way to make a room look stylish and add texture to a space. There’s a reason IKEA’s £2.50 paper lampshade appears in every university bedroom.

But if I were looking to add a paper shade to my home, I’d add H&M’s new large rice paper pendant light (£79.99). It’s far more interesting to look at compared to a standard dome lampshade, not to mention it has a designer look that will get all your guests talking.

H&M’s shades use rice paper to create a soft, cosy glow, making them a great living room and bedroom lighting idea. The rice paper is fitted over iron frames to create a stacked dome effect.

The paper itself is a soft beige, and the beauty of these pendant and floor lamps is in their shape. Japandi design is underlined by simplicity. As these lamps have such a strong, striking shape, they don’t need an excess of colour. The result is effortlessly stylish, and I’d argue it makes the lamps more versatile, too. They’ll blend with any home style.

What I will say is that H&M’s large pendant light is, well, very large. Therefore, it won’t be suitable for every home. The pendant itself is 95cm tall, so it’s not suitable for homes with low ceilings. For example, my flat has a very low ceiling (I can comfortably touch it without tiptoes), so unfortunately this is not a lampshade that would suit.

Luckily, H&M’s paper floor lamps are an equally beautiful alternative. I particularly like the Rice paper floor lamp (£59.99), which has a stunning boxy shape that gives a timeless trend a futuristic feel. Plus, it stands at 81cm tall, making it small living room-friendly, too.

Paper lampshades will always be stylish. But if you’re looking for a more grown-up take on a trend that’s been done thousands of times already? H&M is the place to go.

If 10 years ago you’d told me that M&S would be one of the hottest places to shop for fashion and homeware, I wouldn’t have believed you. Maybe I’ve gotten old, but it really does seem like M&S has ditched the ‘old lady’ of the high street image and now not only produces some of the best homeware pieces but also is setting many home decor trends itself.

Right now, M&S is hosting a huge sale across its fashion and home lines, and I’ve sifted through to find the very best. From statement lighting (including the viral fabric table lamps) to sophisticated diningware, there are plenty of gorgeous buys to elevate your home on a budget.

I’ve found nine luxe-look pieces for under £50 that will make your home look effortlessly chic. You don’t want to miss it.

Not many high street brands can nail the high-end look quite as well as M&S. While a sale is always a good excuse to find a bargain, these staple pieces will genuinely elevate your home for years to come.

As with any sale, this one won't last forever. So, if something's caught your eye, make sure to check it out sooner rather than later.

A lawn expert is warning against fertilising your grass during a heatwave, stating that it will do far more damage than good.

With drought declared across England and Wales, there are undoubtedly a lot of dry, patchy lawns that have been struggling with the relentless heat. And while we all want to enlist the best August lawn care tips to restore our grass to its former glory. But fertilising your lawn is one task you must avoid during a heatwave.

You may assume giving your grass a good feed this month will help give it a boost. That is wrong; fertilising your lawn now can stress your grass even more, making it take even longer to recover.

Why can't your fertilise a lawn during a heatwave?

During a heatwave or drought conditions, your grass is essentially in survival mode and adding fertiliser can put an unnecessary strain on your lawn, making it a garden job you should never do in a heatwave.

‘Fertilising a lawn with a granular feed during a heatwave is one of the quickest ways to make a lawn worse, not better,’ explains Matt J Adams, founder and lead gardener at The Relentless Gardener.

‘It can be tempting to feed your lawn when it starts looking brown or patchy, as many gardeners assume it simply needs a boost of nutrients to green up again. In reality, the grass is in survival mode, and applying fertilisers to dry, stressed turf can scorch the blades, placing even more pressure on the roots and delaying recovery.

Instead, if you want to protect your lawn in a heatwave, you should water it deeply once or twice a week and early in the morning. You could also consider using a wetting agent (£19.99, B&Q), which aids your lawn in absorbing water and reduces runoff. Pros also recommend raising your mower blades to leave your grass a bit longer. This helps shade the soil and helps it retain moisture.

'Grass going brown during a prolonged dry spell is one of the most misunderstood things in lawn care. What you’re actually seeing is dormancy: the grass basically going into survival mode, which to the eye looks like putting all its energy into protecting the root, not a shiny green grass blade,' adds Ashleigh Bradshaw, Lawn Specialist at Hayter.

'The lawn will very likely recover once regular rainfall returns, often within a few weeks. The danger is overreacting. Heavy watering, feeding and scarifying during active dormancy tends to do more damage than the drought itself.'

When should you fertilise a lawn?

Of course, lawns do benefit from feeding; you just need to know when to fertilise a lawn. Matt says to hold your horses until the weather has cooled down. Most experts recommend feeding your lawn once in spring and once in autumn.

‘The best time to fertilise is once the hot weather has passed, temperatures have cooled, and ideally after rainfall has returned so the lawn is actively growing again. Spring is the ideal time to encourage new growth, while a slow nitrogen-releasing feed can also help replenish nutrients after a dry spell, provided the soil is no longer extremely dry. The Relentless Gardener’s Summer Liquid Lawn Feed is specially designed to be applied during warmer weather but can only be used if the lawn is not already brown,’ he says.

While fertilising your lawn might sound like a good idea right now, it’s really not. Put the feed away, wait till autumn and focus on watering right now.

Who doesn’t love dining al fresco in the summertime? But if wasps have gotten in the way of you enjoying your meal outside, pest experts have revealed a handy trick to keep them away from your plate.

I bet anyone who’s had a picnic, meal or BBQ disturbed by an interested wasp will have spent plenty of time searching for ‘how to get rid of wasps?’ afterwards.

Wasps are attracted to food, which is why you'll often catch them flying around your outdoor dining areas. This is why experts say to leave a ‘wasp offering’. Leaving a small amount of your food out for wasps encourages them to go to that plate and stay away from yours.

What is a wasp offering?

When it comes to deterring wasps, you do have a wide range of options available. You can use scents that deter wasps in your home and in your garden, or choose plants that deter wasps from your patio. However, when it comes to food, wasps are persistent, which is where a wasp offering comes in handy.

‘A wasp offering is simply a small piece of sweet food, a blob of jam, a grape or a small piece of fruit, placed at a distance from your dining area to give wasps an alternative target. The idea is to draw them away from the table rather than trying to keep them away from the garden entirely,’ explains Mosh Latifi, co-owner of EcoCare Pest Management.

‘It is one of the more effective simple tricks available and it has logic behind it. Wasps are not specifically interested in you. They are interested in food. Redirecting their attention to an easier target reduces how often they land on your plate. It will not stop every wasp but it meaningfully reduces the number of encounters during a meal.’

Is it a good idea to use a wasp offering

Leaving a wasp offering is a good way to keep wasps off your plate, but it does need to be used alongside other methods, Mosh warns.

‘A wasp offering combined with keeping food and drinks covered when not being eaten, avoiding sweet-scented products at the table and staying calm rather than swatting when a wasp does come close gives you the best chance of an undisturbed al fresco meal. Swatting releases an alarm pheromone that signals other wasps to investigate, which is the opposite of what you want,’ he says.

However, aside from your meal, you need to ensure your garden isn’t doing anything to attract wasps either.

‘The most effective way to deter wasps is to remove what attracts them. Keep food and sweet drinks covered when eating outdoors, clear away leftovers promptly and make sure outdoor bins have tightly fitting lids. Fallen fruit should also be picked up regularly, as fermenting fruit is a major attraction,’ adds Daniel Steward, Managing Director at Shield Pest Control.

So, next time you plan to enjoy a meal in your garden, remember to dish up a small plate for the wasps, too.

If you’ve been eaten alive by mosquitoes this summer, a fly screen may be the clever solution worth investing in, especially as experts are saying hotter summers are on the cards.

We all want to get rid of mosquitoes and keep them out of our homes, but due to the weather, I’ll bet you’ve been leaving your windows open overnight, allowing these pests an entryway into your home.

A fly screen acts as a physical barrier to these pests, whilst allowing fresh, cool air into your home. You’ve probably spotted these abroad in warmer climates like Spain, and experts say they are becoming more popular in the UK.

Should you invest in a fly screen?

‘As someone who deals with fly and mosquito infestations professionally, my honest answer is yes, and they are one of the most cost-effective preventative measures available. Most indoor fly problems I attend could have been significantly reduced by basic window screening. The issue is rarely that flies are impossible to stop. It is that homes have no physical barrier at all,’ answers Mosh Latifi, co-owner, EcoCare Pest Management.

And due to the warm weather, insect screen manufacturer Appeal Shading is already seeing an increase in demand for fly screens.

‘Warmer temperatures generally create more favourable conditions for many flying insects, so it's reasonable to expect that homeowners may notice more flies, mosquitoes and other insects during longer, hotter summers. While insect activity will always depend on local weather and environmental conditions, we're seeing more people looking for practical ways to enjoy natural ventilation without inviting insects indoors. A fitted insect screen allows you to keep windows and doors open for fresh air while helping to keep unwanted pests outside,’ said Tina Loveland, senior designer at Appeal Shading

With plenty of different fly screens on offer, there is one for every budget. From a bespoke fitted screen to this Amazon magnetic fly screen (£26.99), and even string door curtains (£8.99, Amazon), it’s easy to find affordable solutions for your home. You can also DIY a fly screen using fly mesh (£8.95, Amazon), and it might be wise to use scents mosquitoes hate around your home to deter them.

‘The best solution for bedroom windows is one that's easy to live with. A bespoke retractable insect screen lets you keep the room cool with natural ventilation overnight, while helping to prevent flying insects from getting inside. Because the screen is tailor-made and colour matched to your window frames, it blends into the home and doesn't detract from the look of the room,’ says Tina.

Mosh says it’s important to invest in a well-rated, quality screen. After all, there’s not much point if it doesn’t work to keep mosquitoes out.

‘For bedrooms, a fitted frame screen with a finer mesh is worth the investment. A bedroom window is often open all night, which is exactly when mosquitoes are most active. A poorly fitted or low-quality screen with gaps at the edges is almost as bad as no screen at all. Magnetic or tension-fit screens that sit flush with the frame and leave no gaps are the best removable option for bedrooms if a fitted screen is not practical,’ he says.

If mosquitoes are plaguing your home a fly screen really can make a big difference. We say yes, it's worth the investment.

If you thought destroying an ant's nest in your garden was the swiftest and most direct route to rid your garden of ants, according to pest experts, you could actually be making the problem worse.

If your garden has been overrun this summer, it’s only natural that you want to know how to get rid of ants. But, a little like cutting off the head of a hydra, when you remove one ant's nest, another will crop up in its place.

So, before you go ahead and destroy a nest, this is everything the experts want you to know first.

Does destroying an ant's nest make the problem worse?

The main reason ants will move into the site of an old nest is because they are highly territorial, and if the area has the perfect homebuilding conditions and food supplies, it’s incredibly attractive for ants.

'Destroying a nest without killing the queen achieves very little in the long term. Worker ants will regroup, the queen will relocate, and a new nest will be established nearby, often within days. In some cases, disrupting a large established colony can cause it to split into multiple satellite nests, which means you can end up with more ant activity across a wider area than you started with. This is one of the most common mistakes people make when dealing with garden ants,’ explains Mosh Latifi, co-owner of EcoCare Pest Management.

‘If the original colony has been properly eliminated, the territory will not go unclaimed for long. Ant colonies are highly territorial, but if a space becomes available, neighbouring colonies will expand into it. In a garden with good foraging conditions, some level of ant presence is essentially inevitable. The goal is management rather than eradication.’

While you can use scents to deter ants or use natural methods like diatomaceous earth to keep them away from your home, remember that ants are a natural part of any garden ecosystem and therefore don’t necessarily need removing.

‘Ants are a natural part of the garden ecosystem and, in many cases, don't require control unless they are becoming a nuisance or contributing to problems elsewhere, such as repeatedly entering the home. Before considering treatment, it's worth assessing whether the ants are actually causing an issue. If they are, the focus should be on locating and treating the source of the colony rather than only dealing with the ants that are visible,’ says Daniel Steward, Managing Director at Shield Pest Control.

‘The most effective long-term approach is to identify and deal with the nest itself while also removing whatever is attracting the ants to the area. Natural deterrents such as peppermint oil, tea tree oil or diluted white vinegar can help disrupt pheromone trails and discourage ants from returning to treated areas, although they require regular reapplication and are not permanent solutions.

‘Nematodes are sometimes suggested as a biological control method, but their effectiveness can vary depending on the ant species and environmental conditions. For established infestations, targeted treatment of the colony is generally more reliable than relying on nematodes alone.’

Unless they're genuinely causing problems in your home, ants don't need to be removed from a garden. If you do find yourself with a pest problem, it's best to consult the professionals first.