While I hate to break it to you, it is spider season in the UK, and if you’re looking for ways to stop these creepy crawlies entering your home, pest experts are recommending an all-natural, chemical-free method - that will also make your house smell gorgeous.

While spiders native to the UK won’t do you any danger, there’s no shame in admitting that many of us are afraid of them and therefore don’t want to share our homes with them. So, there’s no harm in looking for human ways to keep spiders out of a house.

One effective method is using a scent spiders hate. In particular, eucalyptus. Pest experts have revealed how you can use this to turn this relaxing scent into a powerful deterrent this autumn.

Why don't spiders like eucalyptus?

While spiders don't ‘smell’ in the same sense we do, they do rely on their sense of smell to help navigate, and the strong scent of eucalyptus interrupts this.

‘Spiders are highly sensitive to strong scents, and eucalyptus is one they tend to find overwhelming. Eucalyptus has a sharp, medicinal smell. Spiders effectively ‘taste’ and ‘smell’ their surroundings through receptors on their legs, so they rely heavily on chemical cues to navigate and find food. A powerful scent like eucalyptus can interfere with those senses and make an area feel unwelcoming, encouraging them to settle elsewhere,’ explains Dan Steward, Managing Director at Shield Pest Control.

If you want to harness the power of eucalyptus to keep spiders out of your home (and make it smell good in the process, your best bet is making a spray. To do this, you’ll need a spray bottle (£3.99, Amazon), water and of course, eucalyptus essential oil (£9.99, Amazon).

‘The most effective method is diluting 15 to 20 drops of eucalyptus essential oil in a spray bottle of water and applying it along skirting boards, window frames, door frames and any corners where spiders are regularly seen. Refresh every week or two as the scent fades,’ says Mosh Latifi, Co-Owner of EcoCare Pest Management.

‘Fresh eucalyptus branches placed in vases near entry points provide a gentler, longer-lasting ambient deterrent. Eucalyptus oil diffused in rooms where spiders are active is also effective and requires no direct application to surfaces.’

Is this a good method to deter spiders?

If you want to keep spiders out of your home, this is one of the most affordable methods you can use. Of course, you’ll also want to assess the things attracting spiders to your home, but experts say eucalyptus works as a great preventative method.

‘Eucalyptus can be a useful, low-cost and chemical-free deterrent, and it's a good option for anyone wanting to avoid harsher products. That said, it's best thought of as one part of a wider approach rather than a complete solution. Scent-based deterrents help make a home less inviting, but they won't seal the gaps spiders are getting through, so they work best alongside practical steps such as sealing small gaps around windows and doors, reducing clutter and damp, and regularly removing webs and egg sacs,’ adds Dan.

You could also introduce a spider curfew, whereby you close all the windows and doors post 7 pm to help reduce the amount of spiders entering your home via these entrances. I must also point out that the main draw of using eucalyptus is its fresh scent.

‘Eucalyptus has a clean, fresh, spa-like quality that many people find genuinely pleasant at home. Unlike white vinegar, which is highly effective but pungent, eucalyptus is something people actively choose to diffuse for its own sake. Using it as a spider deterrent is essentially a free benefit on top of something that already improves the atmosphere in a room,’ concludes Mosh.

Deter spiders from your home

A quick, easy hack that gets rid of spiders and makes your home smell like a spa in the process? Sign us up!

I just scarified my lawn, and what I expected to be a long, tough task was staggeringly simple.

The Vonhaus Lawn Scarifier & Aerator 1500W has been on my wishlist for a while, and last weekend, after months of dry weather, I finally got to use it. I’m not sure I’ll ever go back to a manual scarifier now – it made the task so much easier (effortless, actually), and we managed to scarify our 38m² lawn in under 20 minutes. For £119.99, It’s a worthy investment if you’re wondering how to scarify your lawn for the first time.

Here’s why I loved the Vonhaus Lawn Scarifier & Aerator so much.

It’s the ideal time of year to scarify your lawn (it'll remove dead thatch, moss and debris to encourage airflow and healthier grass), so I thought it was time to finally put the Vonhaus Lawn Scarifier & Aerator (which is also available at Amazon) to the test.

In a nutshell, the electric tool comes with a scarifying drum which drags thatch out of the grass. It requires significantly less elbow grease than a manual tool, though – and it really does make the job a lot faster.

Our lawn is around 28m², and my partner and I finished the task in just under 20 minutes (a new record!). It's so easy to use, only requiring a light push to keep it moving, and you can also adjust the height of the handlebar, which makes a huge difference to the comfort of the tool.

I should mention that the Vonhaus Lawn Scarifier is corded, not cordless. Its 10m cable is perfectly fine for small gardens – but any larger than that, and you’ll need an outdoor extension lead like this Masterplug Outdoor Socket Extension Lead from B&Q.

The cord did restrict our range a little in our 38m² garden, which is probably the only drawback I could find with the tool. If you’d prefer a cordless model, the Einhell Cordless Lawn Scarifier and Aerator is highly rated on Amazon (but it’s almost double the price).

I was blown away by the sheer volume of dead grass, thatch and moss that the Vonhaus Scarifier removed from the lawn. Within just two or three lengths of the lawn, the 30L collector was full – so you’ll just need to remember to empty it at intervals. We also gave the scarifier a whirl without the collection bag attached to see the tool churn out dead grass, so there’s also that option, but you’ll then need to clean up the thatch and debris once you’ve finished scarifying (it’s a little bit different to leaving grass clippings on your lawn).

There are also four depth settings to choose from (-12 to +4mm), changed via a simple handle. As per Vonhaus’s advice, we started with the highest setting, and we actually found that the lower settings scalped parts of the lawn, since it’s already so dead from this summer's heatwaves – but since we’re about to start afresh and reseed our lawn, that isn’t necessarily a bad thing!

If you’re looking to aerate your lawn, Vonhaus says the scarifying drum can do that at the same time, although we didn’t spot any deeper aeration taking place – it seems as though it simply loosens the surface of the soil rather than deeply penetrates the ground, so we’ll be using a separate tool to aerate the lawn properly.

The Vonhaus Lawn Scarifier actually comes with a raking drum, too, which you’re supposed to before the scarifying drum to clear moss and debris – but since our grass was already dead in patches, we found the raking drum actually scalped the lawn instead, and kicked up a huge amount of dust! In fact, Vonhaus advises wearing face protection when using the tool for that very reason. It’s pretty easy to swap out the drums – you just need an Allen key, which comes with the scarifier.

Other autumn lawn care essentials

If you want to scarify your lawn in a fraction of the time it would usually take, without the effort, the Vonhaus Lawn Scarifier & Aerator 1500W is well worth the investment.

I’ve always been a Richard E. Grant fan and not only for his acting. His eye for interior design means he has curated one of Ideal Home’s favourite celebrity homes, and his garden is no exception. In fact, his use of topiary to zone his outdoor space is a great example for anyone struggling to add structure to their garden.

When it comes to garden ideas, Richard E. Grant’s is undoubtedly eccentric. I’ve previously raved about his gorgeous wisteria display and the XL baubles hanging from his trees. In fact, every time I take a peek at his Instagram, it feels like I spot another magical feature.

But the reason his fairytale garden looks so wonderful is that it is well-zoned. Richard’s use of topiary hedging creates clear distinctions within his garden, maintaining a whimsical, not crowded look. Here’s how you can do it, too.

Amongst Richard’s eclectic garden decor, one thing is clear. The repeated use of topiary hedges throughout his space helps segregate his garden into clear zones - in particular, defining his garden seating area.

‘He has used one material to do the dividing rather than a different treatment in every area, so the garden reads as one place with rooms in it, not as a set of unrelated patches. That single repeated element is what holds the whole thing together. It is also the approach that ages well, because there is nothing in it that dates,’ adds Michael Wheat, garden designer and founder of Ponds by Michael Wheat.

If you’re looking for the best hedging plants to zone your garden, Richard’s topiaries are a good example because they create structure in the garden whilst remaining a natural alternative to fencing.

‘Richard's garden incorporates a lot of evergreen plants, ensuring that it looks green all year round. It is a highly personalised, fun space, featuring many eclectic decorations like baubles hanging from trees. Hedges are better for the environment and for wildlife, but they can take years to reach their full height and will not be as easy to move if you change garden zones,’ says Richard Barker, horticultural expert and commercial director of LBS Horticulture.

Should you zone a garden?

While Richard’s garden is clearly sizable, there are benefits to zoning a garden of any size; in fact, it’s particularly beneficial for small gardens.

‘Zoning is the difference between a garden you look at and a garden you use. An open rectangle gives you one view and one activity, and you take it all in from the back door in a second. Break it into areas and you have to walk through it to see it, which makes a small plot feel considerably larger than it is,’ says Michael.

‘It is also practical. Zoning lets you put the dining area where the evening sun is, the working end where nobody has to look at it, and a quiet seat somewhere you cannot see from the kitchen window. Most gardens that feel unsatisfying are not too small, they are undivided.’

Zoning a garden gives each area of a garden a clear purpose. It helps create pathways throughout your garden and can even help make your garden feel like an extension of your home. For example, you can create a distinct garden seating area, growing area or wildlife section. It is like turning your garden into multiple rooms like your home. Hedging also offers plenty of benefits.

Hedges can be kept low to create subtle boundaries, or they can be left to grow tall to provide complete privacy between garden zones. Most plants used for topiary are evergreen, meaning that garden zoning will stay intact all year round,’ says Richard.

‘Dense hedging can naturally reduce noise better than fencing and shelter areas from harsh winds. Even when trimmed neatly, the denseness of topiary hedges makes them an important source of shelter for birds and insects.’

Richard’s hedging will also stay green all year round, ensuring evergreen colour. There is just one main drawback to be aware of and that is topiary hedges are high-maintenance.

‘The honest trade-off is time and maintenance. Yew is the classic, and it is not as slow as its reputation suggests, but you are still looking at years, not a season, and it wants cutting once or twice a year, or it loses the crispness that makes it work. Boxes are quicker to establish but blight and box moths have made it a risk. If someone wants the effect faster, hornbeam gets there sooner and holds its brown leaf through winter, so it still screens,’ advises Michael.

If you want your garden to not only look effortlessly put together, but feel like an extension of your home, zoning is a great way to achieve this look. If you’re looking for something that will add year round colour, and is a little whimsical, Richard E. Grant’s is a fabulous example to follow.

I always think conkers are the hallmark of autumn. The glossy brown seeds of a horse chestnut tree are perhaps best known for their role in the classic children’s game, but gardening experts have just revealed a few more clever uses you can find for conkers this autumn.

Sustainable gardening has been a huge garden trend this year, and what’s more sustainable than using natural materials to help your garden ideas flourish.

If you’re inundated with conkers, or have children who have been non-stop collecting them this autumn, here are five clever ways you can reuse conkers in your home and garden.

1. Compost

Every gardener should think about learning how to make compost, and if you already have an established heap, conkers are one thing you can add to your compost to aid in the plant growth of your garden.

‘Forming one of the ‘brown’ components for your compost bin, just like leaves or twigs, you can add conkers to help balance out the nitrogen rich ‘green’ materials which you will be adding throughout autumn, like grass clippings and kitchen scraps,’says Lucie Bradley, gardens and greenhouse expert at Harvst.

‘What you need to be aware of is that conkers take a long time to break down and just like when you add twigs etc. to your compost bin, they are best chopped or crushed before adding them so they will break down faster. Although they will take a long time to decompose, as they do they will add trace minerals including iron, copper, zinc etc which will all help with plant growth.

‘However, conkers do contain a mild toxin ‘aesulin’ and for this reason any compost which you make is best used for ornamentals rather than using the compost when you are growing vegetables.’

2. Shelter wildlife

If you have a wildlife garden, conkers can also be used to help create shelter for the insects that call your garden home.

‘Another practical use is adding conkers to wildlife-friendly corners of the garden. While they shouldn't be left where pets or livestock may eat them, they can be used as part of natural habitat areas alongside logs, leaves and twigs to create shelter for insects and other small garden creatures. It's a simple way to support biodiversity while making use of something that would otherwise go to waste,’ comments Luke Newnes, gardening expert with Hillarys.

3. Pest deterrents

If you want to get rid of spiders, conkers have long been considered a good deterrent - but this is an old wives tale, and conkers are actually much better at getting rid of a different type of pest.

‘Whilst many people place conkers in their homes to deter spiders, unfortunately this is an old wives’ tale and has no scientific basis,’ confirms Lucie.

‘However, conkers do contain a chemical called triterpenoid saponin, which will be slowly released from fresh conkers as they dry out, and you can make use of this to deter moths from cupboards or drawers where they may lay eggs on fabrics and damage your clothes. As the conkers dry, they will release a pungent scent which will deter moths from taking up residence and, as a result, protect fabrics from damage.’

4. Make autumnal decor

Who doesn’t love a bit of autumn foliage? And if you’re feeling crafty, say goodbye to faux garlands and wreaths and create your own using natural conkers.

‘Conkers are great for more than just collecting on autumn walks. One of my favourite ways to reuse them in the garden is by incorporating them into seasonal displays. Mixed with fallen leaves, pinecones and pumpkins, they add instant texture and a natural autumn feel to outdoor planters and table settings. It's such an easy way to celebrate the season without buying lots of new decorations,’ says Luke.

‘If you enjoy getting creative, conkers can also be used in simple garden crafts. Threading them onto string to make garlands or using them to create decorative features a brilliant way to give them a second life. It keeps natural materials out of the bin and can help encourage children to spend more time outdoors.’

5. Cleaning

Last but not least, conkers are surprisingly good cleaning agents.You can make washing detergent from conkers and they can even be used to make soap.

‘Conkers naturally contain high levels of saponins, chemical compounds which, when mixed with water, produce a rich, soapy lather that both traps dirt and lifts it off surfaces and fabrics,’ says Lucie.

‘This means that you can easily turn conkers into a free, totally naturally ‘soap’ which you can use to not only wash your hands after being out in the garden, it can also be used to remove grime from gardening tools and being chemical free is a great way to clean garden furniture made from rattan or wood that could be damaged by chemical cleaners.’

Why not put excess conkers to good use this autumn for a cleaner home and happier garden.

It seems that we have yet another bow-crazy Christmas on our hands as bow decorations of all sizes, colours, materials and even patterns are popping up everywhere. And Next just launched the latest iteration of the Christmas bow trend that I predict will become everybody’s next obsession – the Tartan Check Extra Large Bow Tree Topper, selling for £22.

While last year’s Christmas bow trend was largely about super-sized velvet bows - like the M&S extra-large bow decorations - and striped versions as well, this year, Scottish-inspired tartan checks and even gingham bows like the newly introduced M&S gingham bow seem to be the latest Christmas decor trend of 2026.

Last week, I got to see the large tartan Christmas bow IRL at Next’s Christmas press preview. And in opinion, it’s only a matter of time before it goes viral.

Shoppers are still loving extra-large Christmas bows as they did last year so the design’s large size will make it extremely desirable – as will the trad-inspired tartan check pattern combining shades of navy blue, dark green and a hint of red. And Next is going big on this festive trend as an entire room was styled with coordinating tartan Christmas buys.

According to Pinterest UK, searches for ‘tartan pattern’ increased by 100% this month as this motif is not only perfect for Christmas but also for the autumn months and cosy season. And that’s one of the biggest perks of this Next bow decoration – it won’t look out of place if you put it up now since it has a very autumnal charm that will seamlessly carry you through all the way to Christmas.

Last year, the ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas’ trend exploded on social media. And this year, it’s back and set to be even bigger than in 2025 as Google searches for ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas’ increased by over 5000% this September compared to the same time last year, and by 600% compared to last month.

The Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic is defined by traditional Americana style to which heritage patterns like tartan are central. So naturally, the Next tartan bow is right on trend – as are all the other tartan-adorned pieces of Christmas decor from the Next festive range.

Complete your tartan Christmas scheme

Are you going to be snapping up one of these for your own home?

Following the success of Next’s viral gingerbread tree skirt, the brand has dropped another two gorgeous styles: The House Scene Light Up Wooden Tree Skirt (£35), and the Red Festive Light Up Wooden Tree Skirt (£35), both of which reflect a slightly more traditional Christmas style.

You might already recognise Next’s gingerbread house tree skirt, which sold out in September 2025 almost instantly after launch. This year, it’s back and joined by two extra festive designs to give your Christmas decorating ideas a stylish edge.

While I appreciate it is still September as I write, experience tells me that Next’s Christmas tree skirts become popular very quickly - so read on if you want to stay ahead of the trends.

If you have one of the best artificial Christmas trees, no matter how realistic the foliage looks, the plastic base can look a little unsightly. This is where a tree skirt comes in handy. Concealing the base, the skirt becomes a key part of your decor and can add a sophisticated look (such as Habitat’s seagrass skirt) or even a playful look (try M&S’s tinsel skirts) to the overall feel of your decor. If you want something traditional, yet eye-catching, Next’s skirts are perfect for you.

First, I’d like to discuss the House Scene tree skirt which depicts a snowy street, complete with a painted Christmas tree, minute wreaths and garlands, all adorning pretty pastel-coloured houses. Just like the gingerbread skirt, there are twinkling LED lights poking through the house windows.

Similarly, the Red Festive tree skirt also depicts a snowy, festive scene. Although this piece of decor is a closer depiction of town life, rather than the village scene shown on the house skirt. This skirt is beautifully detailed, showing Christmas shoppers making their way down a snowy street. It reminds me of M&S’s stunning light-up candles which have become iconic for their festive interpretations of famous cities. The LED lights on this skirt can be seen poking through the windows of high-rise buildings.

Where you prefer a cityscape, more rustic scenery or a playful gingerbread display, what makes these tree skirts a worthy investment, is that they provide an extra layer of lighting to your decor. While one would expect the tree itself to be covered with twinkling lights, a light-up skirt provides that extra level of ambient glow that will make your Christmas decorations look even more magical.

And these aren’t the only tree skirts that have caught my eye at Next this year. Here are a few more stylish designs that will take your decor to the next level.

An LED tree skirt can help give your Christmas decor a cosy edge. And no one is doing it better than Next right now.

I’m a huge fan of autumn. I love the changing leaves, the slight chill in the air, and long dog walks with a hot coffee in hand. But one thing I hate? Muddy shoes cluttering my hallway. That’s why I’ve been on the hunt for a shoe rack to get ahead of the mess, and the new Lakeland Multi Shoe Rack (£29.99 at Lakeland) fits the bill perfectly.

I’m currently on a mission to follow in the footsteps of people with consistently tidy hallways, and I’ve known my entryway has been missing some proper shoe storage for a while now. My husband and I have got into the bad habit of leaving our wet, muddy shoes on the doormat inside the house, and that makes our tiny space look even more cluttered.

But without a lot of space - or budget - to buy a huge shoe cabinet, I’ve had to look for a more effective shoe storage idea for small spaces, and this new Lakeland drop is both space-savvy and affordable.

When I spotted this shoe rack, I knew it wouldn’t be a conscious design addition to my hallway. After all, it’s not the most aesthetic shoe rack I’ve ever come across - but pretty shoe storage often comes at a much heftier price.

But this Lakeland alternative is practical and affordable, and sometimes that’s all you need to transform your hallway from a cluttered, muddy mess into something to be proud of. Especially since this £30 solution fits 8 to twelve pairs of shoes and can be configured to suit your space.

Yes, with a clever design feature that I’ve never seen before, this shoe rack can be assembled in two different ways. You can use it in a longer, wider two-tier formation, or fold it into a taller, narrower 4-tier formation.

This means that you can fit it around the other items already taking up space in your hallway, from coat racks and console tables to more permanent features like radiators.

For example, I know the 4-tier formation would be better in my house because the radiator limits the available wall space, and I know from speaking to experts that utilising vertical space is key in smaller spaces.

But having the option to switch it up also lets you use this shoe rack in other rooms and areas of your home. You could add another to your under-the-stairs cupboard, or opt for the lower-slung configuration at the bottom of your wardrobe to organise the shoes you wear regularly but don't use enough to keep downstairs by the door.

With muddy season already underway, the wipe-clean material also means that you can simply wipe away the grime your shoes leave behind, keeping your hallway spotless.

And for just £29.99, how can you argue with that?

Shop budget shoe racks

I’m definitely snapping up Lakeland’s new £30 shoe rack to get ahead of the mess this autumn.

Interior design experts are advocating for us to apply the Japanese practice of ikigai to homes to ensure our spaces are places that add small pleasures to our lives.

Ikigai is more than just a home decor trend. With ‘Iki’ translating to ‘life’ and ‘Gai’ meaning ‘worth’ or ‘value’, it literally means ‘that which makes life worth living.’ And interior experts say that this principle can be applied to how we spend time at home and to our home decor.

‘The concept dates back to the Heian period, between 794 and 1185, when it appeared in poetry and court diaries as a way to describe moments of deep personal satisfaction. Rather than a single overarching goal, ikigai is really about the daily realisation that life is worth living in the present moment,’ explains Gini Lin, founder of Airy Fragrances.

‘It is found in small domestic pleasures: the first sip of warm tea in the morning, the way afternoon sunlight hits a wooden floor, or the satisfying feeling of preparing a simple meal. It is less about what you achieve and more about how present you are in the small rituals that make up your day.’

How to apply ikigai to our homes

Considering ikigai centres on finding meaning in everyday life, it is perhaps natural that this principle lends itself well to our home lives. It’s a useful practice to follow if you’re looking for ways to make your home feel happier.

‘The home is where ikigai is most naturally expressed, and most consistently overlooked. We spend enormous energy designing homes that look considered, but far less on making them feel considered. The two are not the same,’ says Gini.

‘It starts with one question about every object and every ritual in your space: does this add meaning to my day? It doesn't photograph well, nor is it on trend, but it gives me something when I am actually living inside it. A chair placed to catch morning light. A surface cleared of everything except what belongs to one activity. A scent so tied to a particular room that walking into it feels like arriving somewhere.

‘In Japan, this way of thinking about domestic space has been practised for centuries, built into the genkan entrance that separates the noise of the outside world from the calm of home, the single seasonal flower changed with the months, the ritual of removing shoes before crossing the threshold. The home is not a backdrop to life. It is where life is actually lived.’

What does ikigai look like in practice?

In practice, ikigai can be as simple as appreciating your favourite candle scent or reed diffuser in your bedroom, opting for specific materials that feel good on your skin, such as linen bedding.

‘For me, it comes back to creating spaces that feel comfortable, welcoming and personal. I like rooms to have a sense of character rather than feeling too perfect, and I think surrounding yourself with colours, patterns and textures that you enjoy can make a real difference to how you feel at home,’ says Debbie Leigh, design manager at ILIV.

‘I also think there is something to be said for creating small spaces or moments that encourage you to slow down, whether that is sitting down with a cup of coffee, reading for a while or simply enjoying the natural light coming into a room.’

Gini’s approach would be to start with the five senses, which ensures you don’t only address things in your home which you can physically see.

‘Scent is one of the most direct routes to the limbic system, the part of the brain that processes memory and emotion. It arrives before rational thought, which means it shapes how a space feels before you have consciously registered anything about it. A room with its own scent has its own identity. It becomes somewhere specific, somewhere that belongs to you. That is a form of ikigai built into the architecture of a space,’ she says.

‘I would also introduce objects that invite you to slow down: a hand-thrown ceramic cup you love the feeling of holding, a decorative glass piece that catches the light in a particular way, a reed diffuser that makes you feel good the moment you walk in. These sensory anchors create a pause between the pace of the outside world and the pace of being home.

‘Personally I am a minimalist, and I think that instinct is deeply connected to ikigai. When a home is full of things that have stopped earning their place, the mind has nowhere to settle. Removing the unnecessary is not about aesthetics. It is about clarity.

'A clear surface, a corner left empty, soft warm light rather than harsh overhead brightness: these create the conditions for the atmosphere of a room to actually be felt. Japanese spatial philosophy calls this yutori, breathing room. You cannot notice the small meaningful moments of daily life if there is too much competing for your attention. Yutori is what makes noticing possible.’

Is this a good philosophy to live by?

For our experts, ikigai is a good practice to live by simply because it doesn’t ask too much of us. All we must do is appreciate that the simple things make life worth living.

‘I like the idea that there doesn’t have to be one big source of happiness or purpose. It can be found in the small things that make everyday life feel good. The same can be true of our homes. They don’t need to be perfect or follow every new trend. They should make sense for the people who live in them and support the things that bring them pleasure, comfort and connection,’ says Debbie.

And Gini agrees, stating: ‘For the home specifically, this is a profound reframe. The home stops being a place where you recover from your life so you can go back and live it again tomorrow. It becomes the place where your life is actually happening. Every small ritual, every considered object, every scent that makes a room feel like yours: these are not decorations. They are the thing itself.’

How I practice ikigai

How do you practice ikigai at home?

There’s nothing I love more than a snoop around a celebrity home, and the latest to catch my eye is comedian, writer and actor Joanne McNally, whose recent house-moving video on Instagram revealed her brilliant technique of using pink to anchor her maximalist decor.

Those with stylish homes will know that having a ‘red thread’ running throughout your space ties your home together coherently for a finished look that feels as considered as it is stylish. Examples include Victoria Beckham, who has pops of pistachio green tying her home’s interiors together.

Now you can add Joanne to your list of celebrity inspiration. Her gorgeous, maximalist home decor is neatly tied together by a repeated pink colourway. Here’s how you can do it, according to interior design experts.

In a recent Instagram post, Joanne vlogged her recent move into her home and amongst all the packing and subsequent unpacking, I noticed that pink featured heavily amongst her homeware. She had a pink rug, chairs, mirror, storage unit, lighting and artwork, too. While there’s no doubt pinks proved a colour trend with staying power, what Joanne’s use of pink does is give her home a considered, finished look.

‘Joanne’s pink home accents are a great way for her to inject her personality and personal brand into her home. Pink is such a naturally uplifting colour, helping to keep a space feeling fun, positive and full of character,’ comments Natalie Evans, founder and CEO of home styling and staging company Little Barn Door.

‘Using a ‘red thread’ colour throughout a property is a great way to make a bold choice feel cohesive. People often assume that if they introduce a strong colour, they need to use it heavily from room to room. In reality, following a simple 5% rule and repeating small touches of the same colour throughout can maintain personality and connection without the scheme feeling overwhelming.’

A red thread can be anything from a paint shade, material or pattern. Joanne’s use of pink works so well because it matches the bold, characterful nature of her interior design.

‘When you have lots of shapes, colours and individual pieces competing for attention, a recurring colour gives the eye something familiar to find. Pink provides that connection while still allowing each piece to have its own personality,’ says Kunal Trehan, interior designer and founder of Touched Interiors.

‘Joanne uses pink with real confidence. It feels playful and personal, especially alongside her sculptural furniture, colourful art and unexpected accessories. I love that she hasn’t treated pink as something that has to be delicate; it can hold its own among much bolder pieces.’

How to get the look

‘Choose a colour you genuinely love, then repeat it in different ways: perhaps a chair in one room, a detail in an artwork in another, and a lamp or cushion elsewhere. Vary the scale and the shade, and let the rest of your home evolve around it. The aim is a sense of connection, not a matching set,’ is Kunal’s advice.

When considering the best accent colour for your home, consider the palettes that genuinely make you happy. Do you have a favourite colour you wouldn’t mind seeing in every room? That makes a great red thread. If you want to reflect a bolder, playful home pink is a great choice, meanwhile a soft green can be used to evoke a sense of calm.

‘It’s also a clever way to embrace a bolder colour without making a huge commitment. Accessories and smaller decorative pieces are relatively easy to change, so if Joanne’s tastes or trends evolve in the future, the overall look can easily evolve with them,’ adds Natalie.

Shop pink home decor

If you love maximalist decor, but aren't sure how to make sure it flowers in your home, opting for your own 'red thread' can help tie it all toether. It's up to you which colour you choose.

Having spent my entire adult life renting, I’ve had my fair share of grotty, mouldy bathrooms. And to remove said mould from my bath and shower grouting, there is one Amazon buy in particular that I always rely on to strip mould effectively, with minimal effort on my part. I’m talking about Skylarlife Home Mould & Mildew Stain Remover Gel (£13.99).

There's a good reason this Amazon mould gel has been crowned one of Ideal Home’s best cleaning products. Its easy application, minimal scrubbing and effectiveness have made it one of my favourite ways to get rid of mould fast.

So much so that when I swapped one poorly ventilated bathroom for another last year, it was the first thing I reached for when it came to whipping my new bathroom into shape. Here’s why it’s the product I swear by to remove mould from grout.

When my partner and I moved into our one-bed flat in June last year, it was pretty much perfect. My only little niggle was the lack of a bathroom window, but any Bristol renter knows that somewhat affordable rent coupled with a good location is few and far between.

We have an extractor fan, but I have noticed that mould builds up fairly quickly without adequate ventilation. Alongside cleaning my bathroom, I frequently douse my shower cubicle with Astonish Mould & Mildew Stain Remover Spray (£2.50, Dunelm), which is highly effective.

But when it comes to my grouting, sometimes it needs a little extra TLC, and this is where the Skylarlife mould gel comes into play. I apply a thin strip of gel to my sealant, wait six to eight hours and then use the shower head to rinse it away. And that’s literally it!

While I’d love to sit here and give you a full step-by-step, that is genuinely all I need to do. I usually apply it before bed, so it can rinse away in the morning or before I start work in the morning. And the results do speak for themselves. Sometimes there is a little mould left over, but I find this mould is easy to remove with white vinegar.

What I will say is that this product is a strong bleach, so you should avoid getting the gel on your hands and keep it out of the way of children. And of course, remember to wash it off your tiles before getting in the shower!

Mouldy bathrooms are unfortunately something we all deal with, especially in the colder months. I’ve found this mould gel to be the best thing I’ve tried. Honestly, I hate scrubbing away at bathroom tiles, and this gel allows me to clean my bathroom faster and more efficiently. If you feel like you’ve tried everything to clean mould grouting, I recommend you try this miracle buy before choosing to regrout.

Robins may be the UK’s favourite bird, famous for their cheerful, red-breasted demeanour. But don’t let their good looks fool you. These little birds have a reputation for being territorial around resources, and if you're having trouble ensuring all songbirds are getting access to resources in your wildlife garden this autumn and winter, experts are here to help.

Many gardeners love attracting robins to their gardens. Robins are not only instantly recognisable, but they are confident and chirpy and, of course, carry a lot of symbolism. But if you’re looking to attract all songbirds to your garden, you may have spotted that robins can get a little aggressive with each other and with other birds.

So, I asked wildlife experts what we need to do to ensure all birds get a fair shot at the food and water you provide during winter. And this is what they said.

Why do robins get territorial?

‘Robins are naturally very territorial birds; it’s in their nature and driven by survival needs. Even their red breast serves as a visual attack trigger. A garden can provide everything they need to defend, including food, shelter and potential nesting sites. Regardless of sex, robins hold territories and aggressively defend their patches against trespassers - even other robins,’ explains James Ewens, bird specialist at Green Feathers.

‘They’re especially protective of their garden if it has plenty of insects, worms, berries and suitable cover. It’s valuable, and we can compare it to having a house full of valuables that we don’t want to share. It’s totally normal and in their nature to have territorial behaviour, and leaving robins to it is one of the best things you can do.’

If you’re wondering how to check whether robins in your garden are acting in a territorial way, there are a few tell-tale signs to look out for.

‘Robins use their loud songs as a warning to notify other birds and tell them to stay away. If singing doesn't work, robins can physically chase away other small birds that have a similar diet, such as dunnocks. They may bully these birds at feeding areas to keep resources for themselves,’ says Lucy Taylor, a wildlife expert from Vine House Farm.

‘Robins can mistake anything that is bright red, including reflections, for a rival robin and will attack it. Robins use their bright red breasts to warn other birds, and will attack competing species that cross into their territory.’

What can you do to stop this?

As much as it’s lovely to provide a robin’s favourite food and tend to them in your garden, if you want to ensure other songbirds get a look in, all you need to do is ensure you are providing different feeding stations.

‘Robins aren't generally trying to prevent every other bird from using the garden; many birds can feed in the same area if they use different foods, feeding heights and different areas of the habitat. If a robin has claimed a feeding spot, that’s theirs, though, and you better remember it!’ says James.

‘It’s important not to interfere too much with nature; it’s very normal for them to have territorial behaviour, but you can reduce the need to be territorial by providing a range of food and several feeding stations in different parts of the garden. Like separating enemies, you don’t want them in the same place. Give smaller birds places to retreat from a robin seeing red by planting dense shrubs, hedges and low vegetation to give them all some space.

‘It's worth remembering that a robin defending a territory isn't necessarily preventing other birds from using the whole garden. Removing a robin won’t help - we still love them as fiercely as they can be. Instead of interrupting nature, simply provide more food and shelter spots to reduce competition.’

And if you want all birds to enjoy your garden space, it’s important to make it as bird-friendly as possible, such as bird-feeding plants and rewilding parts of the garden.

‘Plant berry-bearing shrubs in your garden to provide birds with food through autumn and winter, as well as planting seed-bearing flowers for seed-eating birds,’ recommends Lucy.

‘If you install nest boxes in your garden, ensure that you have hole-nesting boxes for blue tits, open-fronted boxes for robins and multi-layered or specialised boxes for other bird species.

Set up bird baths or water features in a safe, shaded spot of your garden so birds can drink and bathe. These should be refilled with fresh water daily and cleaned regularly to stop the spread of disease.’

As James says, it's best not to interfere with nature too much. But by offering multiple feeding spots as and access to multiple resources, you stand a better chance at keeping all your visiting birds happy.

Yes, it’s happened again! Yet another Christmas decoration has gone viral and sold out in a matter of days as a result. This time, it’s the John Lewis Harry Styles mouse Christmas tree decoration which was gone in 48 hours after dropping on the retailer’s website.

But if you missed out the first time around, fear not – I’ve got insider intel that a restock is coming at the end of this month. And while the felt bauble is currently out of stock in the John Lewis online Christmas shop, you might be able to find it in the physical Christmas shop at the John Lewis Oxford Street store which opened earlier this week.

The £8 felt mouse decoration doesn’t actually bear the pop star’s name per se but the heart-print jumpsuit - the very same that Harry Styles wore back in 2022 while performing at the Wembley Stadium - and the microphone in its hand makes The Enthusiast Felt Pop Star Mouse Tree Decoration unmistakeable.

And the very enthusiastic Harry Styles fans went crazy for it, with TikTok posts about this Christmas bauble getting thousands of views. Content creator Charley King (@charleyking on TikTok) was one of TikTokers that posted about it and made it go viral as her video attracted over 16K likes and over 127K views. And that’s just one TikTok video of many – so it’s no wonder this little guy is already sold out.

Luckily, John Lewis has gone all out on the felt mouse decorations front this year. So if you missed out on the first drop of the Harry Styles mouse and can’t wait for the next drop to land (or miss out the second time, too), there are plenty of alternatives to go for instead. And they’re just as adorable, if not more.

Top John Lewis felt mice picks

These cute felt mouse decorations make for the perfect gifts for friends and family – since there are so many different characters to choose from, the chosen mouse can be really personalised to the person you’re getting it for. So which one of these cuties are you getting?

This is not a sentence I ever believed I would write: Stacey Solomon is making a case for bright orange bathroom suites.

The TV presenter and personality is well known for her more neutral home decor style, but after sharing her house move with fans following her departure from Pickle Cottage, it seems the star is plumping for a bolder bathroom colour scheme.

Despite being in her new home for less than a month, she’s already wowed us with her autumn staircase, and now she’s asking fans for advice on what to do with her orange suite. I decided to ask bathroom experts what they would do, and spoiler alert: they’re all for keeping it. Here’s why.

Posting a video of the suite to her Instagram, Stacey told fans that it was likely to be her first upcycle project at her new home.

‘Even though 99% of people have told me it's got to go, I just believe it can be more than what it is right now,’ she said in the video before asking her fans what she should do with the suite at the end. And a few celebrities' faces were arguing in favour of the orange.

‘Oooooh, some brass fittings, a warm mirror and some deep rich greens on the walls, a few plants and it would be very fitting 🧡,’ said Supernanny Jo Frost.

‘😍Keep add some gold fittings lush,’ was Alison Hammond’s contribution.

And they’re not the only ones in favour of this surprising bathroom trend; bathroom experts also want Stacey to embrace this retro suite.

‘Keep the orange. Please keep the orange! You could spend weeks searching for something with that much personality and Stacey already has it sitting there waiting to be loved,’ says Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra.

How to modernise coloured bathroom suites

A couple of years back, it seemed that avocado bathrooms were making a comeback, as retro home decor trends began to surge in popularity. But in 2026, retro bathrooms are not as focused on the very ‘Marmite’ avocado shade - they’re bolder and more confident.

‘Colour is coming back in a much more confident and individual way,’ says Keeley Sutcliffe, Design Manager at BC Designs.

‘Rather than choosing a coloured bath, basin and WC and then trying to match everything else to them, people are using one or two pieces almost like furniture. A coloured bath can anchor the whole room, while the rest of the scheme is allowed to be quieter.

‘I think that reflects a wider change in how we decorate bathrooms. For a long time, white sanitaryware was treated as the safest choice because a bathroom was expected to last for years. Now there is much more appetite for creating a room that actually says something about the person who lives there.’

'I’d treat the orange as the starting point for the palette rather than a colour that needs disguising. Warm whites, soft stone shades and natural textures would give it a completely different context. I'd also look at the brassware. Chrome or another cooler metallic finish would be really interesting against orange and could immediately sharpen the room up.'

The way to modernise colourful suites is all about how we style them. With orange, use it as an anchor point in your bathroom, complementing it with warm, creamy neutrals (such as your tiles) so as not to overpower it.

‘What I definitely wouldn’t do is panic and start trying to make everything match. Orange bath, orange tiles, orange towels and suddenly we’re on the set of a 1970s sitcom. The suite has already turned up to the party wearing the fabulous outfit; everything else can calm down,’ says Grazzie.

‘I'd probably give it something slightly unexpected to play with. Creamy tiles would make it feel softer, a dusty pink could be brilliant, or you could introduce a little burgundy or deep red through a border or patterned floor.

‘And don't underestimate how much changing the backdrop changes the way you see something. Put an old orange bath against tired tiles and it looks dated. Put exactly the same bath against a really beautiful new surface and suddenly everyone wants to know where you bought it.’

Shop the look

I won't lie, I've been won over by the orange bathroom suite and belive with the right styling and accessories has potential to look very cool. Are you in favour? Or should this retro trend stay in the past?

It feels like it’s suddenly getting darker earlier once again, and right on cue, IKEA has dropped its twinkling new STRÅLA collection, whereby more Scandi lighting styles have joined its sell-out series of cosy, festive lighting.

IKEA’s STRÅLA collection is largely known for its sell-out paper stars, which are big contributors to the biggest Christmas lighting trends. Its paper design is quintessential of classic Scandinavian design and is perfect for practising hygge in your home on cold winter nights.

This year, STRÅLA has seen some colourful and quirky additions to the range. I’ve rounded up my favourites - from pieces that will bring festive joy to your home to the weird and wonderful lights that will get your guests talking.

The IKEA STRÅLA collection produces some of the best budget Christmas decorating ideas, with prices starting from just £3 for the lace paper star lampshade. You’ll need a separate light source (such as the IKEA table lamp base), but the finished look is simply beautiful.

Alas, this is not my top pick, although it is a good one. That award goes to the Paper Petal Star (£9), whose delicate design looks like a perfect snowflake. It’s an elevated take on the typical STRÅLA star, and perfect if you want to create cosy ambient lighting. I think this would be beautifully hung on windowsills or along your stairs’ bannister, so you give the darkest areas of your home a soft glow in the evenings.

It reminds me of a more affordable version of H&M’s £19.99 paper lampshade, although I will admit the H&M version does offer more detail.

Alongside the beautiful paper lampshades, here are a few more options from the IKEA STRÅLA collection that caught my eye.

These IKEA lights have really got me in the mood for festive lighting, so I've done some more digging, and here are a few more stunning examples I've found that you can shop online.

Alternatives

IKEA’s STRÅLA collection is perfect for creating a hygge glow in your home - and that makes celebrating Christmas worth it.

I’ve been saying this all throughout this month when I talk or write about something Christmassy – I know it’s only September, but brands are dropping their Christmas collections now. And the best ones have to be snapped up asap because people go crazy for them and they sell out fast. These are the 5 Christmas buys that sell out by October year after year in my experience – so it’s likely to happen again this festive season.

Whether you’re in the market for the best artificial Christmas tree or want to get your hands on some of the most popular and viral Christmas decor ideas, this curated list has got it all. In order to avoid regret at a later date closer to Christmas when you’re ready for your holiday shopping, I recommend getting ahead and adding these to basket now while you still can.

1. John Lewis Cotswold Christmas tree

Every year, the John Lewis Cotswold potted pre-lit Christmas tree comes out on top in our best artificial Christmas tree buying guide as the best tree overall. I just did a Christmas tree testing shoot this week and this was one of the trees I tried. And as expected, it did not disappoint.

The only downside of this tree is that it comes only in one size - which is 7ft - and perhaps that’s partly why it sells out so early. Usually, it’s gone by mid October despite its rather high price point of £580.

The tree’s extremely realistic look is one of the reasons behind its popularity, as well as the potted design. Instead of a flimsy metal stand which needs to be covered by a tree skirt or presents, the Cotswold comes with a black ceramic planter which looks so much more aesthetically pleasing and adds to the realistic effect.

2. Marks & Spencer light up candles

The M&S light up candles are notorious for selling out within days of launching. Particularly the Yuletide Pine & Spice Refillable Light Up Candle is flying off the virtual shelves – it’s currently the number one bestseller in the M&S home accessories department. And soon after launch last week, it already went out of stock. But luckily it’s been restocked since then.

Aside from this top seller, there are two other also very popular light-up candles – my personal favourite Mandarin, Clove & Cinnamon light up candle and the Frankincense & Myrrh light up candle, all of which are refillable and sell for £12 a pop.

3. Next gingerbread house Christmas tree skirt

Last year, the whole Ideal Home office missed out on the Next gingerbread house tree skirt as it sold out within days. It all happened so fast we didn’t even manage to let our readers know it had dropped.

But this year, we’d been checking the Next site daily and a couple of weeks ago it launched. Selling for £35, this whimsical tree skirt is made from wood to resemble a row of gingerbread houses. And there’s even a light-up function! How cute and how clever! No wonder it’s so popular.

4. The White Company Symons Nordmann Fir Christmas Tree

The White Company’s Christmas trees are well known for being some of the best, most realistic and highest quality trees on the market. And this is reflected in how quickly they sell out. While the also popular Grand Spruce Pre-lit tree - which I regularly rank as the best pre-lit Christmas tree in our buying guide - usually hangs around a little longer as it comes in various sizes, the Symons Nordmann Fir Christmas tree tends to go out of stock early.

It’s only available in one 7.5ft size but it comes with a stylish wicker tree skirt included. And much like the John Lewis Cotswold tree, this one from The White Company is also extremely realistic-looking. It traditionally comes unlit but now, there’s a pre-lit version available, too, and it’s been one of the brand’s top tree sellers so far this year as well.

5. Marks & Spencer XL velvet bows

The super-sized M&S velvet hanging bow decorations have had us all in a chokehold for the past three Christmases as they sell like hotcakes and go viral every single year. So here’s to hoping that M&S stocked up on these this year so that there’s plenty to go around.

There are two sizes available this time around – the ‘smaller’, currently more popular one is 65cm long and sells for £20, available in three colourways, while the extra large version is £30 and measures a whopping 95cm.

Which one of these top Christmas buys are you snapping up before October?

When Swyft collaborated with Morris & Co last year, we readily labelled it the best Morris & Co collaboration to date. If you were also a fan, you’ll be pleased to know that Swyft has just dropped its second Morris & Co collection (and it's even better than last time!)

Available to shop now, the second Swyft x Morris & Co collection features four new designs from the Morris & Co archive: Pimpernel, Seasons by May, Wandle and Arbutus. With Swyft known for producing some of the best sofas available on the market, you can expect to see these stunning designs reimagined into quality pieces of furniture and home accessories.

Following the success of last year’s partnership, Swyft's latest collection combines the timeless patterns of William Morris with Swyft’s own modern, practical values.

The four Morris & Co prints will be available on a selection of classic Swyft designs. This includes the Storage 01, Storage 02, Storage 03, Model 05 Loveseat & Ottoman, Model 08 Sofa Bed, Bed 02, Model 02, Chair 01, Chair 03 and Cushion 01. More styles are expected to be announced. Across the collection, prices start at £59 for Cushion 01 and rise to £2,499 for the Model 08 Sofa Bed.

‘The success of our first Swyft x Morris & Co. collection showed us just how much appetite there is for bringing these iconic patterns into contemporary homes. For this second collection, we wanted to build on that success while giving the collaboration a fresh feel, which is where the rich, low-pile velvet comes in,’ says Keiran Hewkin, Founder and CEO of Swyft.

‘The four new prints each have their own character, and while the Swyft team is pretty evenly divided on a favourite, Pimpernel has a slight majority. We’re excited to see which one customers choose.’

Last year, I agreed that the Swyft x Morris & Co collaboration was one of the best William Morris homeware collections available to shop, and this year, I stand by that sentiment even more so.

The four new patterns each have a sumptuous, autumnal look, opting for colourways that are both richer and deeper-looking than the previous drop. Pimpernel, for example, is one of the boldest prints, featuring terracotta blooms and sage green stems across a burgundy background.

Sara Hesikova, Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor, has already seen the new collection in person and was left impressed.

‘The first Swyft x Morris & Co. collab did really well, so I'm not surprised the brands decided to do it again. But this time, they went bigger and bolder, learning from their experience with the first drop where the boldest, most quintessentially Morris & Co. print was the clear customer favourite,’ she said.

‘This time around, the colour palette is much cosier and autumnal, which is perfect as we're moving into the cosy season. And I think the burgundy-toned Pimpernel and Seasons by May prints are going to be the most popular.'

Swfyt is not the only brand nailing Morris & Co collaborations right now; here are a few more styles I’m loving right now.

Other Morris & Co collections

William Morris prints will never go out of style, and with Swyft known for their high-quality designs, it’s a winning combination for your home.

I was sat on the sofa last night considering going to bed when I realised, in horror, that it was only 7:30pm. That's right, the dark evenings are upon us, and as my open-plan kitchen is so poorly set up for cosy evenings, I knew I needed to line up a payday lamp purchase - stat.

So naturally, I started browsing my favourite spot, Dunelm, for affordable buys that feel like a genuinely justifiable purchase - whether it's payday week or the week before.

This lamp I spotted made me stop in my tracks. I'm a lover of country-inspired home decor and I love high-end brands that embody this aesthetic, but over £100 for a lamp isn't in my budget. For just £35 for this Posie lamp, however, I can definitely commit - and it looks just like one from a much more premium retailer.

When I spotted the textured, ceramic base of Dunelm's Posie lamp, I couldn't help but think it reminded me of much more expensive, similar styles.

The Stucco lamp from Pooky is the perfect example of how these textured lamp bases are trending right now. Living spaces, whether a sitting room or an open plan kitchen, are benefitting from a more-is-more approach, with plenty of textures, patterns and colours creating an inviting space.

The contrasting colour scheme of the pink shade and green base is an easy way to add a fun pop of colour to a kitchen colour scheme - it will look right at home in pale pink or earthy green spaces.

The Dunelm Posie lamp comes in two sizes - the smaller size is £35 and the larger style is £69. which is still much more affordable than other lamps of a similar size.

I have my eye on the smaller size to add a warm glow to dark corners of my small kitchen. Fabric shades are controversial in cooking spaces, but I think as long as they're away from appliances, there's no reason why they can't be used.

These ruched, fabric shades have been seen everywhere as of late, and they're an easy way to incorporate a new pattern into a scheme. Pattern layering can be tricky, so trying it out in smaller, more affordable formats can ease you in.

I'm all about finding small additions to a kitchen that don't break the bank. Updating decorative touches breathes new light into a space (quite literally), and it's even better when the piece is practical too.

As the nights draw in, focusing on task lighting around a kitchen will make it feel cosy and welcoming, and reduce the requirement of having the big light on.

What's even better is when this has a dual function - it adds illumination but also adds to a layered, beautifully curated scheme.

Shop more textured lamps

Autumn is upon us, so it's time to start thinking more carefully about our kitchen lighting ideas - these tips will provide plenty of inspiration for new projects.

Since the Government announced plug-in solar panels were legal to buy and use in August this year, generating solar power at home is more accessible than ever before. However, this doesn’t mean that you can go and position your plug-in solar panels wherever you fancy - in fact, experts are warning against this one place in particular.

Now you can buy plug-in solar panels to harness solar energy without relying on traditional roof panels. They’re less expensive than rooftop panels and better suited to rentals and flats.

This all sounds great, right? And those of us looking to generate solar power may be eyeing up our shed roofs as a prime spot for plug-in solar. But it’s not, and positioning your plug-in solar panel here could even be dangerous.

Can you put a plug-in solar panel on a shed?

In the same way you shouldn’t put a plug-in solar panel on a fence, you also shouldn't position one on a roof, as they are both made of wood.

‘Homeowners may want to put a plug-in solar panel on their shed roof because of the angle the solar panel would lie. It’s best practice to have a tilt of around 30 to 40 degrees to ensure the sunlight is being captured properly, and a shed roof may provide that. However, homeowners are encouraged to consider wall-mounted solar panels or another surface, such as a balcony, to house their solar panels,’ says Alvaro Iturmendi, Uswitch solar energy expert.

‘Plug-in solar panels shouldn’t be installed on anything wooden, including gates, sheds, or shed roofs, due to the potential increased fire risk. This is due to components potentially overheating and causing a fire to start, with timber being a very combustible material.’

As you are dealing with electricals, it’s important to ensure your electricals are not in constant contact with flammable materials, like wood, as excess heat generated can act as a fire risk. However, if your shed is not made from wood, it could be used to house your plug-in solar panel, but it is worth checking with a professional first - especially if you have older wiring or need an outdoor socket installed.

‘Before installing anything, check the direction of the shed roof and how much shade it receives from nearby trees and buildings. You should also inspect the shed itself, ensuring the structure is in good condition, and the roof is strong enough to carry the additional weight,’ says Garden shed expert Sam Jenkinson, from garden building retailer Tiger.

‘You’ll also need a suitable mains socket to safely plug the solar panel into. The cable run should be short and safe, without extension leads stretching across the garden.

‘Once installed, each system must be registered with your local Distribution Network Operator. It’s also important to check whether you need permission from your landlord, freeholder or your local council before installing.’

Shop compliant plug-in solar panels

While plug-in solar offer ample opportunity to save energy and money on your bills. However, safety should always be your number one priority.

When you think of premium BBQs, the first image that comes to mind is undoubtedly the Big Green Egg. Its round shape and British Racing Green colourway have become synonymous with quality cooking. But the time has come to change your perception, as Big Green Egg have just dropped a brand new colourway - The Onyx.

Big Green Egg is one of the best BBQs you can buy and is highly favoured by chefs and celebrities due to its superior cooking abilities. And this is the first time a new colourway has been announced in the brand’s 50-year history.

The Big Onyx Egg gives the iconic egg a sleek black update and is designed to blend seamlessly into contemporary gardens. Here’s everything you need to know.

Launching today (24 September), the Big Onyx Egg is available in large size and to Big Green Egg members only. It is free to sign up for the membership scheme.

Inspired by the precious stone, Onyx, the ceramic outer shell features a deep, dark glaze, with the faintest hint of green shining beneath the surface. Inside, customers should be familiar with what they see.

The most important things to know about these egg BBQs are that they deliver precise temperature control, are incredibly versatile to use and are suitable for roasting, baking, slow cooking, smoking and even rotisserie. It’s these features, as well as the incredibly high-quality materials used to craft them, that make Big Green Egg BBQs so popular amongst professionals and one of the best charcoal BBQs on the market.

‘The decision to add a colour to the world’s most famous green was not one we took lightly. The Onyx came from listening to our customers, who wanted an EGG that could sit naturally within the more contemporary outdoor spaces they were creating. It took us time to get the finish right, but we knew we had it when we could still see that subtle trace of green in the sunlight. The Onyx may look different, but underneath it is the same EGG our customers have trusted for generations,’ comments Dan Gerstacov, CEO of Big Green Egg.

However, despite the colourway being the most obvious change, the Big Onyx Egg has had two upgrades to be aware of. The Quick Lights Kit means you can light the coals from below, via the Draft Door, for faster ignition and better heat distribution. It also has a Dual Zone System that makes it easier to switch between cooking modes or use multiple modes simultaneously. For example, you could roast a chicken on one side of the dome and grill vegetables on the other.

There’s no denying that large Big Green Eggs can be expensive, retailing for £1,495, and the Big Onyx Egg is expected to be no different. If it’s a little out of your budget, here are a few cheaper alternatives we recommend.

Alternatives

Are you a fan of the latest Onyx colourway, or do you remain loyal to the iconic green egg.

As we head further into autumn, my focus has certainly shifted from getting out of the house, to updating the inside of my home. I'm preparing for cosy evenings spent hunkering down, and my kitchen is where I want to make some improvements.

Kitchens are the heart of the home, so creating a warm and inviting environment is essential to making a cooking space feel like a hub that the whole family can gather in during the winter months.

Kitchen island ideas are the perfect way to achieve this, but it's hard to add one in without breaking the bank or calling in a professional. Luckily, Dunelm holds the answer in its Francis compact kitchen island - a classic Shaker island for just £249. Here's why you should consider it.

Many people think that a kitchen island is something that you build into your kitchen when you're designing the whole space, but there are so many freestanding styles on the high street that allow you reap the rewards for less.

Perhaps you realised after living in a space for a while that you'd benefit from an extra work surface or a seating zone, in which case adding a freestanding island to the centre of a kitchen will work well.

However, some freestanding islands can still come with a serious price tag, so when I saw this style from Dunelm, I was shocked to see that it's under £300.

It's compact, but this makes it perfect for small kitchens and it adds storage without taking up the entire room.

The Francis compact kitchen island from Dunelm has so many great features, but the Shaker design is what first caught my eye. If you already have traditional Shaker cabinetry then continuing the look with an island will make it look like it's built in.

It comes in two colours - navy and off-white, so you can either match it to your current scheme or opt for a two-tone look. The brass handles make it look so much more high-end than the price tag suggests, too.

While kitchen islands are handy for creating an additional work surface, they are also crucial for extra storage.

The lower shelf on the Francis island is great for larger pieces of kitchenware like mixing bowls, or even small appliances like a stand mixer, which isn't used all of the time.

While the drawers provide a handy spot for cutlery, it's the wine rack that makes this affordable kitchen island look much more premium. With space for 6 bottles, it creates a real focal point in your kitchen, rather than simply being a practical zone.

Shop freestanding kitchen islands

Finding genuinely stylish and affordable solutions for small kitchens is no small feat, and now is the time to invest as we start to make the most of our cooking spaces this autumn.

Upholstered headboards are a timeless interior design choice, yet there’s no denying 2026 has truly been their moment to shine. And the latest offering to catch our attention is the Habitat x Morris & Co Hyacinth Double Headboard, which, at £200, is one of the most affordable headboards I’ve seen that will give your bed a timeless, designer look.

Having now worked at Ideal Home for more than two years, September is eagerly marked in my calendar as the arrival time of the Habitat x Morris & Co autumn collection. And the one thing this collaboration does consistently well is nail (and sometimes help set) the biggest bedroom trends.

Fans of the iconic Arts & Crafts designer don’t want to miss out on this statement headboard. Its stunning design will add some romantic charm to your bedroom - and I bet it will never go out of style, either.

Personally, I see September as the perfect opportunity to reset my life, and one way I like to do this is to update my sleep space. I’ve already recently raved about the Habitat x Morris & Co bedspread which is the perfect transitional layer to add to your bed as the temperature starts to drop.

But having spotted this statement headboard, I’m about to push those shopping plans to a whole bedroom revamp; honestly, I’ve not seen anything this stylish for that price. The headboard is elegantly curved with rich pink cord piping for a stylish finish. The upholstered headboard trend goes hand in hand with curvy designs, and the trend is focused on creating an environment that is both comforting and elevated.

The pattern itself is taken from Morris & Co’s Hyacinth wallpaper, which was designed by John Henry Dearle between 1900 and 1912. Its block-printed pattern shows a sprawling floral display with twisting foliage and rich colours of green, blue, pink and orange.

The 2026 Habitat version has been reimagined slightly bolder. Set against a navy backdrop, it features bolder reds, greens and blues whilst retaining the romantic charm of the original.

If this Hyacinth headboard is too bold for you, consider the Habitat x William Morris Apple Double Headboard - Cream (£200). This intricate floral and fruit print is stunningly sophisticated, in a soft green and cream colourway.

This headboard is inspired by the Apple wallpaper, which was designed by William Morris in 1877. The pattern combines apples and acanthus leaves against a backdrop of foliage. While the original has a small splatter of orange hues, the Habitat version lacks it. However, I do prefer this take if you’re looking to create a more relaxing sleep space.

The headboards are available in a double or king size. The double measures at W153, H127 cm, while the king is W168, H127 cm. The boards come with a 1-year manufacturer's guarantee.

If you love the Habitat x Morris & Co headboard but are not due for an upgrade, no fear, as here are a few of their new bedding sets that will look gorgeous in your bedroom this autumn.

If you are due for a new headboard idea, or this one has simply caught your eye, I don't think you'll regret the purchase. It will make a beautiful statement in any room.

At Ideal Home, our team of professional mattress testers have slept on over 150 different types. However, one mattress always emerges as the top-rated every time we retest it: the Simba Hybrid mattress. Right now it's also on sale with 25% knocked off the price tag in the Simba September sale.

Simba produces some of the best mattresses on the market; we've given rave reviews to the Simba Hybrid Luxe and the more affordable Simba Hybrid Essential. However, the Simba Hybrid Mattress retains the top spot as the best mattress overall due to its value for money, comfort levels and temperature regulation. Our reviewer went as far as to call it the 'Goldilocks of mattresses', giving it a perfect 5 out of 5-star rating.

Right now, this crowd-pleasing mattress is even better value, with the price for a double mattress dropped from £899 to £674.25.

The Hybrid mattress isn't the only product Simba has dropped the price on. They are having a sitewide sale on some of their bestsellers. If you are looking to refresh your bed for cosy season, now is the time to pounce, as there is up to 30% off everything.

There are usually a couple of Simba sales a year, but these are some of the lowest prices we've seen at Simba in 2026. Now that the weather is starting to change and get colder, duvet season has commenced. If your bedroom needs a little TLC, these are the other star buys on offer to snap up in the September sale while you can.

The sale currently runs for the rest of this week and next, ending on the 1st October subject to availability. If you're bed is due and upgrade, this is the payday to make the investment.

Ever used a bulb planter? I’ve always wondered if they’re really a necessary garden tool – and then I used the Kent & Stowe hand bulb planter.

It’s designed for larger bulbs like daffodils, and since the cheerful spring flowers were on my list of spring bulbs to plant in September, I decided to give it a whirl. After a scorching summer, my garden borders are particularly dry right now – but the bulb planter’s design made planting a breeze.

Here’s what I love about the Kent & Stowe hand bulb planter, which is just £6.13 at Amazon – and why it’s convinced me that bulb planters really are worth adding to your garden tool collection.

The Kent & Stowe hand bulb planter has a serrated edge, so it’s easy enough to insert into the soil – even if yours, like mine, is hard and heat-baked after all the heatwaves. You'll just need to twist it a bit on tougher earth.

There’s also, of course, a handy measurement scale on the side – four inches, which guides a consistent planting depth (and learning how to plant bulbs properly is really important if you want them to grow and flower well).

Once you’ve pushed the Kent & Stowe hand bulb planter into the soil at the required depth (I had to double-check how deep I should plant daffodil bulbs!), you simply twist the tool and pull the core of earth from the ground. It tasks a bit of wiggling if your soil is particularly dry and compacted, but it’s so much easier than digging the hole with a hand trowel.

Then, you simply pop the bulb in the bottom of the hole (you can use some bulb starter beforehand like Empathy Bulb Starter Biofertiliser from Amazon to encourage strong root growth), and empty the soil within the bulb planter over the planting hole to fill it back in. All in all, it’s a satisfying process – and it really is as simple as it sounds. For reference, I planted Narcissus 'Bridal Crown' bulbs, which you can order from Thompson & Morgan.

The Kent & Stowe hand bulb planter is also a durable tool. It's traditionally styled, and as sturdy as it is nice to look at. The metal part is made from carbon steel, and the handle is crafted from beautiful FSC-certified ash wood. It’s no wonder it has a 10-year guarantee.

At 23cm long, the bulb planter is bigger than I expected – but since it’s designed for larger bulbs, it makes sense. If you'll be planting your daffodil bulbs together, it's handy for making multiple larger holes in one area.

Bulb planting kit

The Kent & Stowe Hand Bulb Planter has completely transformed the way I plant spring bulbs. It's affordable, durable and so easy to use.

I know we’re only at the end of September, but I have just spotted the bedding set that is going to see me through the winter months: Next’s Sateen Robins Christmas Duvet Cover and Pillowcase (from £55).

Next is one of the best places to buy bedding, particularly colourful and patterned bedding. If you want your bedroom ideas to stay on trend, Next is one of the brands I recommend for personality-packed bedding.

But one thing Next absolutely nails is their seasonal bedding sets, and this sateen set, complete with festive red bows and detailed robin foliage, is just the right amount of festive. In fact, I’d be tempted to use it all winter long.

If this year’s bedding trends have proved anything, it’s that nature-inspired colour palettes and floral prints are having a huge comeback, and with this bedding set featuring a border of bushy green foliage, it’s perfectly on trend for the new season.

Last year, Next dropped a fleecy robin bedding set, and it’s safe to say we were all charmed by its good looks. Made with a soft, fleecy material, it was perfect for snuggling up on cold winter evenings. This year, Next has given robin bedding a luxury spin.

This set is made from sateen. Sateen bedding has a luxuriously smooth, silky finish, which often makes getting into bed feel like getting into bed at a posh hotel. Alongside its luxury feel, this bedding set has beautiful red bows along the edge of the duvet cover and pillowcases. While I am tired of the bow trend, I do think this makes for a striking and thoughtful finishing touch.

The robins themselves can be spotted in pairs or individually nestled amongst branches of festive mistletoe. If you’re a fan of attracting robins to your garden (and honestly, who isn’t?)This is a lovely way to continue the charm into your bedroom. Given that the set is largely white, the set isn’t too loud either.

If you really want to nail the luxury hotel feel, there are a couple of extra things you can do to make your bed feel even comfier this autumn and winter. Alongside your sateen robin set, investing one of the best mattress toppers offers an additional layer of cushioning for a bed that’s even comfier. Our best-rated topper, the Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper, is currently reduced from £349 to £296.65.

Similarly, the Simba Hybrid Pillow is also 25% off right now. If your pillows are looking a little worse for wear, I’d recommend using this deal to give them an upgrade.

Alternatively, if it’s just bedding you're after, here are a few more of Next’s seasonal sets that have caught my eye.

Christmas has definitely landed early at Next. But this robin bedding set has convinced me to welcome the festive season early to my bedroom, too.

There is most definitely an autumnal chill in the air recently, so what better time or place to welcome Lidl’s dehumidifier back to stores? Not only will it reduce the amount of damp in your home, but it has a dedicated laundry mode to make drying clothes faster and easier.

If you struggle to dry laundry during wet, chilly weather (i.e during autumn and winter), then one of the best dehumidifiers is an essential item to help you keep on top of your laundry routine. However, these appliances can be pricey, even costing hundreds of pounds for the best models, which is where Lidl’s budget dehumidifier comes into play.

Landing in stores on Sunday (27 September), the Lidl Tronic Dehumidifier is just £79.99 and is perfect for getting rid of damp and reducing humidity levels for a more comfortable home. Here’s everything you need to know.

Usually, the dehumidifier we recommend for drying laundry indoors is the ProBreeze Premium 20L Dehumidifier with Special Laundry mode (£159.99 at B&Q); however, if you’re working to a smaller budget, I think the Lidl dehumidifier can be used as an alternative.

It offers a moisture extraction rate of 10 litres per 24 hours and offers two programmes: ‘dry laundry’ or ‘dehumidifier’. It has a decent-sized water tank of 2.1L, a removable and washable filter, as well as a built-in timer and warning signal for when the tank is full.

The dehumidifier also has four castors, making transportation easier around your home. But if you’re struggling to dry clothes in winter, this is where a dehumidifier shines. As a dehumidifier’s job is to suck moisture out of the air, when placed near your drying rack can help clothes dry faster. It also helps prevent any musty odours or mould forming if your clothes are taking too long to dry. The other alternative is using one of the best heated airers, but these don’t have quite as many benefits as dehumidifiers with dedicated laundry modes.

Ideal Home’s Senior Digital Editor and resident dehumidifier expert, Jenny McFarlane, is also impressed by the specifications of the Lidl Tronic Dehumidifier.

‘The Tronic dehumidifier is a really affordable option for tackling condensation and excess moisture. Its 10-litre extraction rate makes it a good fit for smaller rooms, and I really like that it has a laundry mode so it can help speed up drying your clothes indoors. Being able to set your target humidity is another feature I'd normally look for in a good dehumidifier, while its compact size and castors make it easily portable from room to room,’ she says.

Lidl’s dehumidifier will only be in store, so if you find your local store quickly sells out, or doesn’t stock the dehumidifier, I’ve rounded up a few more models the Ideal Home team rate highly.

Last week, M&S fully opened its Christmas shop, revealing one of the best Christmas decor collections of this festive season. I’ve been swooning over many of the new launches, some of which I’d already spotted at the brand’s Christmas showcase earlier this month – but the one ‘it’ buy that all the Ideal Home editors are obsessed with (myself included) are the £15 M&S paper striped star room decorations.

According to Marks & Spencer’s recent survey, 30% of people plan to decorate more than usual this year. And if you, too, fall into that category, the M&S Christmas shop has some truly spectacular - and XL-sized - Christmas decor ideas to adorn your abode with this festive season.

The sellout super-sized M&S Christmas bows that went viral last year are back again for another year. The brand also turned some of its foodhall bestsellers into adorable Christmas baubles – and people are going crazy for the cookies decs. But if you like a bit of Scandi-inspired flair, these M&S paper stars are for you.

Last year, paper stars were already one of the biggest Christmas decor trends. But this year, it’s all about the striped ones which we got a sneak peek of last Christmas with Habitat’s striped paper Christmas stars which were extremely popular with shoppers. And I predict the same fate for these super stylish ones from M&S.

They’re perfect for decorating everything from walls and staircase ideas to doors and windows, equipped with a toggle-adjustable mesh ribbon matching the star to hang it with. There’s only one question remaining – do you go red or green? Personally, I’m leaning towards the red version. Meanwhile our Digital Editor, Rebecca Knight is adding the green one to basket to go with her pink-painted living room that also features a green sofa and accessories.

But if they manage to sell out before you get there in time, I’ve found some alternative striped paper Christmas stars to decorate your home with instead.

Alternative striped Christmas paper stars

Which striped paper Christmas star are you going for?

Rubber bands are one of those items that seem to wind their way up into a junk drawer and take up permanent residence. We always tell ourselves we’ll keep them for something useful, but what exactly are those things?

If you’re looking for ways to reuse rubber bands around the house, you’re in luck, as experts have suggested three different ways to give your bands a second life.

While rubber bands are one of the things you should store in drawers, they have plenty of other uses. Here are just three examples you can test out at home with ease.

1. Stop clothes slipping off hangers

When it comes to tidying and organising a wardrobe, the main grievance I have is that my clothes are prone to slipping off their hangers, making the space messy again. What I hadn’t realised was that two handy rubber bands are all I need to fix the problem.

‘Before buying specialist non-slip hangers, try adding a couple of rubber bands to basic plastic or wooden ones. Wrap a thick rubber band tightly around each end of the hanger to create extra friction, helping strappy tops, wide-neck jumpers and slippery fabrics stay in place rather than ending up on the wardrobe floor,’ explains Max Wilson, co-founder at Pocket Storage.

2. Clean your blinds

If you want to clean your blinds but don’t have the best tools to hand to help you, a pair of tongs, cloths and a rubber band can help you get the job done.

‘Grab a pair of kitchen tongs and wrap two microfibre cloths around the end, secured in place with a rubber band. Then, simply clamp each of the slats between the tongs and glide along. It’s a quick, simple, and satisfying hack to clean both sides of each slat in one smooth motion. Works best on venetian and aluminium blinds,’ says Heath Showman, founder of Lifestyle Blinds.

3. Open stubborn jars

Everyone has a trick for opening a sticky jar, but I’m always happy to welcome one more - after all, there’s nothing worse than being hungry and not being able to get a jar open when cooking.

‘Give an old rubber band a new job as a DIY grip. Wrap a thick band around a stubborn jar or bottle lid and twist. The rubber creates extra friction between your hand and the lid, giving you more grip and leverage without needing a specialist jar opener,’ says Max.

Do you have any other handy uses for old rubber bands?

When you think about the everyday items in your home - your bin, ironing board or clothes airer, for example - do you ever consider them to be beautiful?

I’ll wager you barely even notice such household items, let alone consider them beautiful. Yinka Ilori OBE’s new collaboration with Brabantia is here to change that. The collection, titled ‘There is Magic in Joy ’, takes the best kitchen bins or even the best airers and turns them into works of art.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Yinka to discuss his latest bold and colourful collection (the Yinka Ilori x Dunelm collection impressing the Ideal Home team in the summer). After discussing the importance of colour and joyfulness in his work, I was convinced every area of your home should add joy to your life.

British-Nigerian artist and designer Yinka Ilori is well known for his use of bold colour and intricate detailing within his designs. He’s a master of creating a kaleidoscope of colour, and the most recent Brabantia collection is no exception.

The collection includes statement bins, a bold, colourful airer, and ironing board and lunchbox accessories. Yellow and pink feature heavily throughout the designs, with Yinka even telling me they’re two of his favourite colours to work with.

‘I was really interested in seeing how you could reimagine an everyday object into something that is a ritual that we do daily. But how can that ritual become a ritual of joy?’ Yinka told me.

‘And I think having slogans and artworks on things that we use daily within our home, I think, can really kind of shape our day, our moods, and really kind of change the way we look at kitchen utensils and kitchen objects within the home space.’

What struck me as someone who has a small home and a really small kitchen was that this latest Brabantia collection contained items that look like pieces of decor, rather than functional items. For example, I don’t have a tumble dryer, so my bog-standard grey clothes horse is on show the majority of the time in my home. Since seeing the HangOn Drying Rack (£99) in person, I like the idea of my clothes horse adding colour to my space, rather than looking unsightly.

‘I thought there’s something quite playful about the drying rack because of all the kinds of block colours. I mean, for me, I might put my socks in the yellow section, and I might put my t-shirts in the purple section. So I think there's also something quite playful that kids might find interesting about, you know, an object that we see daily,’ Yinka added.

‘People shouldn’t be nervous by color. For me, it's just like doctors saying to you, you know, you need vitamin D from the sun, right? You know, for your skin, it's good for your body. It brings you joy. It's the same thing as, you know, as if you are around colour and around affirmation, it will uplift your mood and change your home space.’

So as we head into winter, and Vitamin D starts to wane, consider finding yours in colourful and joyful home decor. I saw that the Yink Ilori x Brabantia collection is a good place to start.

One thing I’ve learned during my time at Ideal Home is that functional items can, and often should, be beautiful. And if anything is beating the drum of pretty yet functional, it’s John Lewis’ new range of laundry baskets.

Given that this is an item that is on show in our homes, whether that be your bedroom, bathroom or utility room, I think it makes absolute sense that pretty laundry baskets should be available for every home.

John Lewis has answered our call, dropping stunning new styles that add glamour to such a boring chore. You may already be aware that wicker is a defining home decor trend this autumn, and imagined into a laundry basket genuinely looks fabulous.

Wicker has been a breakout trend for autumn 2026, particularly in the form of wicker vases and lamps. But it’s also perfect for your laundry basket, as John Lewis demonstrates. Wicker is a natural material and typically a warm, brown colourway, making it gentle on the eye and relaxing - perfect for inclusion in your bedroom storage ideas.

A natural wicker laundry basket is the perfect balance of good looks and being able to blend into your surroundings. If you have a classic country style, it’s an ideal laundry basket material for your home.

First to catch my eye was undoubtedly the Oval Seagrass Storage Basket (£30), which is perfect for depositing loads of laundry around your home. It has integrated handles and sturdy construction to make the chore easier, while its stunning design looks far more expensive than its £30 price tag. I love the blend of rich, autumnal red and beige - it makes the basket look like fallen leaves.

Similarly, the Wicker Oval Laundry Basket (£35) offers the same function, but has a more traditional look. It combines classic woven wicker with a white fabric insert and bow to create a timeless style that won’t look out of place in any home.

Lastly, the Rectangular Bulrush Lidded Laundry Basket (£90) is large enough to hold the washing of a busy household, yet its simple, timeless look means it won’t take up too much visual space. It also tucks neatly along a wall or in a corner, taking up less physical space, too.

It’s also made from natural bullrush, a sustainable grass that grows in brackish water to help improve soil and water quality. It’s lidded and comes with built-in handles to keep dirty laundry out of sight.

These may be the newest additions to John Lewis’ pretty laundry baskets, but they’re not the only ones. Here are a few more styles that have caught my eye.

If you find your current luandry basket is a bit of an eyesore in your home, consider upgrading to one of these gorgeous woven alternatives.

Martin and Shirlie Kemp took to Instagram to reveal their latest growing endeavour - grapevines. And while this may sound like a more unusual choice of fruit to grow in the UK, with the right amount of care, it is entirely possible to grow your own bunches.

While grapes may seem like an odd choice considering the UK climate, they’re actually one of the best fruits to grow in pots and one of the best plants to grow up a pergola. Plus, with the UK’s climate predicted to get warmer due to climate change, gardeners may start to find growing and harvesting grapes easier and more plentiful.

The Kemps planted their new vines against a trellis structure this week. So, I asked a garden expert how it would fare, and whether we could do the same at home.

Martin and Shirlie Kemp frequently share glimpses of their gorgeous garden on their home’s Instagram account @maisonnumber9. On 15 September, the couple posted their latest endeavour, growing grapes, stating: ‘I know it’s a bit late to plant grapes, but they’re for next year.’

‘It’s absolutely fine to plant grapes at this time of year, as the soil is still warm and isn’t yet waterlogged. If we have a relatively dry winter, you can successfully plant throughout the season, but planting now gives the vines a good opportunity to establish themselves, and they should have a good chance of success,’ says Amber Tunney, Plant Buyer at Cherry Lane Garden Centres.

Amber also points to the trellis they’re growing the grapes on, stating that it will make a lovely garden display once established. However, she does warn that grapes can quickly become heavy, which may topple a delicate trellis.

‘A trellis is a lovely way to start the vines off and can create a really attractive feature. However, grapevines can fill out quite quickly, so over time they may find the structure becomes too small to support the fruit and weight of the vine,’ she says.

‘During the summer, some foliage will also need to be removed to allow enough sunlight to reach the grapes and help them ripen. This can be easier to manage when vines are grown against a wire or wall, or over a larger trellis structure such as a gazebo.’

Can you grow grapes in the UK's climate?

In the video, Shirlie can be heard stating that they were planting the grapes in a south-facing area of the garden that gets plenty of sunlight. ‘It gets so hot,’ she says. And this is ideal as grapes prefer a south- or west-facing warm spot in your garden. They also need fertile, free-draining soil and plenty of space to grow and climb.

Plus, with meteorologists predicting the UK will see hotter summers, gardeners may find it easier to grow grapes with warmer temperatures predicted to be the new normal.

‘Hotter summers can make it easier for grapes to ripen successfully in the UK. However, a sheltered position is still important, as extremely hot conditions can also put the plants under stress,’ says Amber

‘Provided winters don’t become significantly harsher, hardier grape varieties should continue to cope well with UK winters. Choosing the right variety and planting it in a sheltered spot will give the vine the best chance of thriving.’

Top tips for growing grapes

If you want to add growing grapes to your list of September garden jobs, you’re in luck as Amber has some top tips for growing this delicious fruit - whether you want a snack for your fruit bowl or have your own vino on your mind.

‘When choosing a vine, look for a strong, healthy plant and make sure you select a variety suited to what you want to grow, as there are different varieties for wine-making and eating,’ says Amber.

‘Varieties such as Phoenix, Boskoop Glory and Lakemont are good choices, as they have a strong tolerance to colder winters, good disease resistance and can produce good crops.

It’s also important to be patient, as grapevines can take a few years to establish and produce a good crop. In the first year, remove all fruit so the plant can focus its energy on establishing itself and ideally, do the same in the second year. By the third year, it is best to remove a few bunches as they begin to grow so the plant can focus its energy on producing a smaller quantity of good-quality, tasty fruit.’

Where to buy grapes

• Grape 'Phoenix', £54.99, Thompson & Morgan
• Grape 'Boskoop Glory', £24.99, Dobies
• Grape 'Chardonnay', £24.99, Crocus

Growing grapes may sound a little difficult or even too exotic to achieve in the UK -but that's not the case! And as Martin and Shirlie prove, you still have time this month to get started.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've seen a lot of sofa beds in my time. However, I don't think I've ever seen one *quite* so pretty as Dunelm's recently launched candy-stripe sofa bed.

In my opinion, this sofa bed has far more wow-factor than many sofa beds which are twice its price, and it seems that Dunelm shoppers feel the same way – some are even ordering two!

What's more, there's a whole range of matching accessories that elevate the look even further.

Whether you opt for the wide-striped coral pink colourway, the stylish sage green, or the graphic black and white striped option, the Dunelm Beatrice II Sofa Bed is dressed to impress. However, this sofa bed isn't just a standout amongst the best sofa beds on the market because of its looks.

This is a pull-out sofa bed, which, considering its (relatively) affordable £799 price tag, is pretty unusual. Most sofa beds of this price range are click-clack options, where the backrest folds flat in line with the sofa seating to become the sleep surface.

There's nothing wrong with a click-clack sofa bed – some of the best sofa beds I've tested have been of this design – but it does mean your guests can end up sleeping *on* your sofa's upholstery. And when a sofa is as pretty as this one, that may not be ideal.

Instead, the Beatrice II offers a dedicated pull-out mattress folded underneath its seat cushions. It can seat three people at a time, and once transformed into a bed, it becomes a double sleeping area.

Little wonder then that Dunelm shoppers are already raving about this collection. 'Absolutely love it,' says one 5-star reviewer of the 3-seater sofa bed on the Dunelm website. 'I ordered two for my living room... great hardwearing material for kids around, fantastic bed, easy to assemble, lovely colour and pattern. Couldn’t ask for more!!'.

'Really easy to pull out, and I absolutely love the colour,' says another owner, 'it's genuinely true to the photos.'

And if you don't need that much seating or sleeping space? The smaller Beatrice II Snuggle Single Sofa Bed packs just as much style into a loveseat snuggle seat.

For those of us with small living rooms, or small guest bedrooms, like me, this space-saving snuggle chair bed is ideal.

'I am so happy with this,' shares one Dunelm reviewer, 'its compact size is perfect for our spare room. The chair is quite firm but large and comfy to snuggle up in with a book. I'm very happy with the quality and think it is great value for money. The bed folds out quite easily and feels comfortable.'

'A great chair, says another 5-star reviewer. 'We have it in our daughter's bedroom, and it’s lovely to read stories on and means one of us can sleep in there while we’re accustomising her to her own room.'

However, for me, the icing on the cake is all the matching accessories you can add to really style up the Beatrice Striped Sofa Bed.

There is matching bed linen, scatter cushions, and all sorts of other coordinating products to inspire your guest bedroom ideas. I've rounded up a few of my favourites below.

Sophie Habboo has unveiled her and her husband Jamie Lang’s bathroom on Instagram, and if you wanted a masterclass on how to make a bathroom both trendy and timeless, you’ve landed in the right place.

Expressive designs with rich colour palettes have defined the year’s bathroom tile trends, and TV personalities and podcasters Sophie and Jamie are proving that you can embrace modern trends, whilst retaining a timeless look that will stay relevant for years to come.

If you’re looking for bathroom tile ideas to inspire you, Sophie and Jamie’s mix of rich reds, marble and checkerboard work in complete harmony to create a timeless, luxury bathroom - and experts have revealed how you can do it, too.

Looking at the bathroom, one word comes to mind: glamorous. With rich red tones, marble and gold finishes, the space has a gorgeous yet dramatic look - there’s something very ‘Hollywood’ about the space, which I love.

‘It feels very good now, but none of the ingredients are flash-in-the-pan choices. Checkerboard, marble and brass have all been used in interiors for generations, so the freshness really comes from how they’ve been put together,’ comments Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

‘The deep wine-toned checkerboard feels much more interesting than a predictable black and white, while the marble brings movement and just enough drama without tipping into ‘look at my marble bathroom’. That balance is what makes the whole thing work. It feels glamorous, but it still has personality, and that is usually what gives a room real staying power.’

And Sophie and Jamie’s bathroom is reflecting a growing bathroom trend - that we want our spaces to look and feel luxurious.

‘Freestanding baths, brushed and unlacquered brass brassware, panelled walls, and marble-effect surfaces are all growing categories for us. Part of it is the influence of boutique hotels and the number of people who now travel and want to bring that feeling home,’ says James Roberts, Director at Sanctuary Bathrooms.

‘Part of it is that the bathroom has become a place to slow down rather than just a functional room, so people are willing to invest in it. And crucially, the look has become far more achievable. Marble-effect porcelain, high-quality acrylic and stone-resin baths, and a much wider range of brass finishes mean the luxe look no longer needs a luxe budget.’

Zoning a bathroom with tiles

You’ll probably have noticed from Sophie’s photo that a mismatch of patterned tiles has been used throughout. And no, this isn't a quirky design choice; it’s actually an excellent way to zone a bathroom.

‘Different tiles can do different jobs within the same room. Here, the checkerboard gives the floor rhythm and swagger, while the marble in the shower feels softer and more fluid, so you get contrast without the two fighting for attention,’ says Grazzie.

‘It’s also a really clever way to zone a bathroom without physically dividing it. You can give the shower, floor or vanity area its own identity and still make the whole room feel connected. The trick is to find a thread between the two choices, whether that’s colour, undertone, material or finish, so it feels layered rather than random.

‘I always think a bathroom is more interesting when it reveals itself gradually. You want a little surprise as you move through the room rather than everything announcing itself at once.’

Grazzie also goes on to say that the checkerboard and marble designs not only complement each other, but help modernise the look.

‘I think they rescue each other slightly. Marble can get a bit grand if you let it, and checkerboard can go full period-drama if you’re not careful. Put them together and suddenly both feel cooler,’ she says.

‘The marble brings all that lovely, loose natural movement, while the checkerboard gives you something much more graphic and ordered underfoot. It’s the contrast between the two that makes the combination feel fresh. The marble stops the checkerboard feeling costume-y, and the checkerboard stops the marble feeling like a hotel lobby.’

How to get the look

‘Start with the floor. A large-format checkerboard floor is the foundation of this room and immediately gives it that classic, high-end feel. Marble-effect porcelain tiles can create a very similar look to natural stone, but with easier maintenance and usually at a lower cost,’ says James.

‘Choose one hero marble and repeat it throughout the space. Look for a veined marble or marble-effect tile with a strong colour running through it, then use it in two or three places – for example, around the shower, on the vanity top, and on a shelf or bath surround. Repeating the same finish helps the room feel considered and cohesive rather than overly busy.’

Grazzie agrees, stating that for this bathroom idea, you need to ensure you take scale into account, too.

‘Scale matters too. A bold floor pattern can take a larger-format or quieter wall tile without the room feeling busy, and then you can soften all those hard surfaces with timber, warm metals, painted furniture or textiles,’ she says.

‘And know when to stop. If the floor is dancing, the walls don’t need to start doing jazz hands too.’

Shop the look

Sophie and Jamie's luxury bathroom has gone straight onto my bathroom moodboard. It's elegant, glamorous and will never go out of style.

By now, there’s no way you haven’t spotted deer print quietly entrenching itself in both the fashion and interiors world this year. And I’m not about to complain, as Next’s Natural Deer Dapple Faux Fur Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set (from £50) has to be the cosiest example of how to do this trend well I’ve seen - I can’t wait to put it on my bed this winter.

Perhaps one of the more surprising home decor trends, and subsequently now a bedding trend of 2026, delicate deer print has been everywhere of late, even taking favour over cult animal prints like leopard and zebra.

But I don’t think I’ve seen this trendy print used better than as a cosy bedding set. If you’re excited for snuggling down during the colder months, this is the statement bedding set to get your hands on now.

Right now, deer print is very much centred in the fashion sphere. But as with any clothing trend, it is starting to trickle through into home decor. Most recently, Dunelm dropped a deer print fabric floor lamp, which proved a bold and playful way to embrace the trend. However, I’d argue that it fares far better as a bedding idea.

Deer print is trending because it is a gentler interpretation of the classic animal print trend. It uses a softer colour palette than leopard print, and the pattern is less defined. Because of this, I’d say deer print is better suited to your sleep space (although I do also love this funky leopard print bedding set, also from Next).

Next’s deer dapple duvet set combines a warm, white shade and a tawny brown to create a delightfully warm deer print. Its faux fur material only adds to the overall cosy look, and I do not doubt that it would be a godsend on cold winter nights. Next says this set will turn your bedroom into a ‘cosy sanctuary ’, stating the faux fur material feels incredibly soft to the touch.

I’m no stranger to fluffy bedding - I whip out Dunelm’s Teddy Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set in cream (£20) every winter - and it genuinely is the one thing I introduce in winter that makes my bedroom feel miles cosier. However, I have noticed that Next’s deer print set is made from 100% polyester, and if you’re looking to avoid synthetic materials, I’d opt for brushed cotton bedding.

If you’re looking for funky, on-trend designs, Next is definitely one of the best places to buy bedding. Their faux fur deer print set went straight to my wishlist as soon as I spotted it, and subsequently had me checking out the rest of Next’s cosy bedding sets. Here are three more stylish designs I spotted.

Is the Next deer print duvet set going on your wishlist, too?

I hate to say it, but it’s definitely spider season in the UK, and if you’ve noticed an influx of arachnids to your home, then you may benefit from introducing a window curfew to your home.

While I must point out that spiders won’t harm you in the UK, many adults are afraid of them, which is why many of us will be looking for ways to get rid of spiders during this time of year.

Instead of worrying about the things luring spiders into your home, it’s time to be proactive and stop them from entering your home in the first place. Introducing a 7 pm window curfew can help prevent spiders from creeping into your house. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is a window curfew?

A spider curfew is a completely free and easy way to keep pests out of your home, without having to rely on chemicals such as spider spray. All you have to do is shut your windows before 7 pm every night, and you should see a reduction in the number of spiders in your home.

‘A lot of people notice more spiders around the home at this time of year, but they're not usually coming inside looking for shelter. More often than not, they're following their food. As the evenings get darker, insects are attracted to the lights in our homes, and spiders tend to follow where there's an easy meal to be found,’ comments Simon Browne, product expert at Luxaflex.

‘Open windows can provide an easy route indoors, especially in the early evening when it's cooler, and people are trying to let fresh air in. Once it starts getting dark outside, the glow from lights inside the home can attract insects towards windows and doorways, which is why you may see more spider activity around these areas.

‘Closing your windows from around 7 pm can help reduce the chances of spiders finding their way inside, particularly during late summer and early autumn when they're most active. It's not a guaranteed fix, but limiting access points after dusk can certainly help make your home less inviting to both insects and the spiders that follow them.’

Is this a good method to use?

While we can’t quite promise you’ll see spiders disappear completely from your home, introducing a curfew can be handy alongside using other deterrents such as scents spiders can’t stand.

‘It won’t guarantee you never see a spider, because they can get in through other gaps and some will already be living in and around the building, but closing windows and external doors earlier in the evening should reduce the chances of more wandering in,’ says Darren Coates, window expert and sales director at SolarFrame.

Simon points out that you should also consider opening your windows during different parts of the day during spider season.

‘If you want to keep rooms feeling fresh without leaving windows open late into the evening, it's worth thinking about ways to manage ventilation earlier in the day. Keeping windows open in the morning or afternoon, then closing them as night falls, can help strike a balance between maintaining airflow and reducing the likelihood of unwanted visitors making their way indoors,’ he says.

Deter spiders from your home:

Will you be introducing a spider curfew to your home this month?

Who doesn’t love a bit of celebrity storage inspo to get you in the mood for decluttering? Well, the latest to catch my eye is TV chef Clodagh McKenna, who’s added a mirror to her built-in bedroom storage, and it’s proved to be a clever design trick for making the space look bigger and brighter.

Integrated wardrobes and drawers are at the top of my bedroom storage ideas, or should I say wishlist. Ensuring all your clothes and accessories have a home, without looking too bulky or taking up too much space.

Having said that, Clodagh’s immense amount of built-in storage had the potential to dominate the room, and this is why the mirror is so clever. Not only does it make the room look bigger, but it breaks up the wall of storage for a considered, luxe look - making it a great example to follow, especially in small bedrooms.

I’ve used Clodagh McKenna’s home as a source of inspiration for some time now. From her use of dried lavender in her kitchen to her gorgeous garden pub, her wonderful rustic style is both cosy and homely, making it a perfect autumnal example to follow.

And her bedroom storage, which is of course painted in her signature green colourway, is proof that you can opt for both style and practicality.

‘Building a dressing-table zone or additional storage into the wardrobe run is one of the best moves you can make in a bedroom. It treats the wardrobe as a room rather than a wall, and the freestanding dressing table that usually clutters the room disappears entirely,’ says Philipp Nagel, director of Neatsmith.

‘The mirror is framed in the same shaker beading as the doors, so it reads as part of the cabinetry rather than as an addition. Warm LED’s make more difference than people expect. The advice for anyone planning something similar is simple: design this space first and the wardrobe around it, not the other way around.’

What Clodagh has done well is position her mirror to break up what would otherwise be a block wall of storage. The mirror, in turn, makes the room feel brighter and look bigger, compensating for the large amount of storage on offer, which could have looked clunky otherwise.

‘Integrating a mirror into the cabinetry gives the storage a more considered, bespoke feel. For me, luxury in a bedroom comes from balancing that polished finish with warmth and texture. At Reclaim Nation, we love the character reclaimed wood brings - it’s a lovely way to make a room feel inviting and individual,’ says Mark Ward, founder of sustainable furniture retailer Reclaim Nation.

‘It gives you a useful dressing mirror without taking up extra wall or floor space, which is particularly helpful in smaller bedrooms. I’d always consider what it reflects, though – a window or an attractive corner will do much more for the room than a cluttered surface.’

And to achieve the look yourself? Mark says to work with what you’ve got.

‘Repainting existing wardrobes and updating the handles can make a big difference. A generously sized framed mirror nearby can give a similar sense of light and depth without the cost of bespoke work. Finish with soft bedding and a reclaimed or second-hand wooden bedside table to bring in some warmth and character,’ he says.

Clodagh has me seriously inspired to declutter and tidy my own sleep space. These are the storage essentials I swear by, and the things people with tidy bedrooms always have.

‘We recommend incorporating mirrors onto the back panels of the wardrobe along with LED’s as a great way to bounce light around the wardrobe and lift the space. To maximise storage, use all available height and make the most of corners to allow easy access to all parts of the room while creating extra storage space at the same time,’ concludes Philipp.

If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your bedroom storage this autumn, Clodagh’s is a great example to follow if you don’t want to lose a sense of space - in fact, her trick does the opposite, making her bedroom look bigger.

I've recently had the task of having a mini pantry to organise for the first time and I have really been enjoying trying to make it more efficient on a granular level. After all, if each section isn't properly taken care of, my pantry won't be as usuable as a whole.

As I wrote about in my piece on my vision for organising my new pantry, my spice selection was one area particularly ripe for fixing. So when I was offered a chance to try out Spice Dept's build-your-own kit (available via Spice Dept or Selfridges) for sorting this problem area, I was sold.

I've recently installed the 9-piece set in my pantry and I've been super impressed by how instantly it transformed my small space, which was previously crammed with probably out of date spices. Here's why I like this system.

The first thing that I loved when I unboxed this set was the explosion of colour. My pantry is hidden behind a set of doors in my kitchen but that doesn't mean I'm not interested in how it looks which is where this box of spices has really livened things up.

The 9-piece essentials set comes in a small, neat box and each spice is clearly identifiable from the large labels. In the 9-piece set you'll receive commonly used spices so that you can start using this system straight away. Those spices are whole black peppercorns, cumin seeds, ground cinnamon, ground turmeric, green cardamom, fennel seeds, whole cloves, whole nutmeg and Kanthari chilli.

As well as being labelled on the sides, the jars are also labelled on the top which means you can employ whichever spice rack idea you like – whether that's on display or tucked into a drawer.

The ease of identification is also improved by the fact that each of these has a use by date stamped onto the bottom of the tin. That means that you won't be guessing whether a spice is still good or not as you pull it out to use in your cooking. Spice Dept's commitment to freshness is a core pillar of their brand, which should also make a big difference to the taste of your food, too.

After a quick change around, I've found this part of my pantry now looks much less visually cluttered than it did before. These tins stack so neatly on top of eachother and as there's no decanting required it's an ultra-quick process.

Each tin is 5.4cm square, which is such a pleasing size to display and stack and still allows me plenty of other space within my chosen organiser for less neat spices to be stored alongside these ones.

There are 12 different spices you can choose from in total as you create your sets. As well as being an efficient way to organise your spice collection (or begin one!), these smart stackable sets would make a wonderful gift for the foodie in your life too.

How does your current spice storage system stack up compared to this one?

A couple of Christmases ago, Marks & Spencer first introduced its supersized velvet bow decorations at the height of the Christmas bow trend – unsurprisingly, they went viral and sold out within days. And this has happened every year since – as soon as the M&S velvet hanging bows go live on the brand’s site, they fly off the virtual shelves. M&S just brought them back, along with new colours, patterns and finishes, and they’re bound to be gone by October.

I know I probably sound like a broken record when it comes to the bow Christmas decor trend – but Christmas bows are not going anywhere anytime soon; they’re here to stay for at least another festive season. And just like previous years, the bigger the bow, the better.

But while previous festive periods really championed the solid-coloured velvet bows, this year, I’m seeing a lot more patterned bows – especially gingham and checks. And it’s in fact the newcoming £20 M&S gingham bow, which I spotted at the retailer’s press preview earlier this month, that I predict is going to sell out first. It looks so good that I want one.

But M&S is not the only retailer where you can get a big gingham or checked Christmas bow – John Lewis is selling a red gingham bow for £15, while Anthropologie gave its XXL bow tree topper (which enjoyed much popularity last year) a plaid makeover among others.

But if the more traditional and equally as beautiful velvet bows are more your thing then there’s plenty for you to choose from. For starters, there are two different sizes.

There are 65-centimetre long velvet bows (which are the same size as the gingham bow) available in three colourways, all selling for £20 each – there’s the classic deep red, as well as dark green and (my personal favourite) chocolate brown.

But things - or bows, rather - get even bigger from here. M&S is also selling velvet Christmas bows that are 95-centimetre long, each retailing for £30. And this size is available either in the timeless dark red or in a new finish which is black velvet embellished with white pearl beads.

Which M&S XL Christmas bow is your favourite? I might have to get one of those gingham numbers before they’re gone.

Even though autumn is only just starting, this is the time of year when all the Christmas-related buys launch and become available to shop. And while you can get away with waiting with some, there are others that you have to snap up as soon as they’re released or regret it later – and the John Lewis scented candle advent calendar falls into the latter category. It just dropped – so run, don’t walk!

This 12-day design is one of the best advent calendars for home fragrance I’ve come across – and it’s certainly the best one for value for money. Selling for £99, the calendar is filled with 12 mini candles from eight of the best scented candle brands, from The White Company to Osmology, among others – all of which are stocked at John Lewis, of course.

John Lewis first introduced this advent calendar two years ago – and it sold out within two weeks. Understanding how sought-after an advent calendar like this can be, the John Lewis team had learnt their lesson and last year, the retailer had much more stock to go around than the Christmas before. The calendar was still hugely popular, it remained one of the retailer’s bestsellers and it once again sold out, although it took a little longer than two weeks.

This is the third consecutive year that John Lewis is offering the scented candle advent calendar – and it’s already flying off the virtual shelves on the website, becoming one of the bestselling products, despite only launching earlier this week.

This year, I managed to get my hands on the calendar early before its launch and I was really impressed with its look featuring a new outer space-inspired design, the premium, weighty feel and the contents – especially considering the £99 price tag.

Within the little numbered drawers, it includes some of my favourite scented candles like Osmology’s Happy Space - a soothing scent blending amber, geranium and rose - and SKANDINAVISK’s Hygge candle, celebrating the Danish ‘hygge’ concept of cosiness with notes of tea leaves, mint, cinnamon and dried apples.

Alternative advent calendars to invest in

An advent calendar like this one makes for the perfect gift or a treat for yourself to make the cold and busy month of December a little more enjoyable. But if you like the look and sound of it, I really recommend to act fast.

As much as we’d like to cling to the warm memories of summer, the reality is that we should start preparing for the cooler months ahead. If you’re following the principle of ‘heating the human’ this winter, Dunelm’s Small Olive Square Heater (£30) is a solid and surprisingly stylish choice.

When temperatures plummet, one of the best electric heaters can help keep you warm without turning to your thermostat. With energy prices set to rise from October, one way to curb rising costs is to follow Martin Lewis’ advice of ‘heating the human,’ not the home. This means instead of turning your thermostat up and heating your whole home, make changes that heat you, the human, such as a small heater when working from home.

Not only is Dunem’s Small Olive Square Heater well reviewed for its heating power, but its retro design is possibly the most stylish portable heating option I’ve ever seen. Here’s why I think it’s a solid, affordable choice for your home this winter.

Before I get into the nitty-gritty specifications of this heater, I want to start by saying that Dunelm has really nailed the design. Olive green has been a huge colour trend this year as we seek to introduce grounding, earthy tones to our homes. Unlike a standard white or black gloss heater, which can look glaringly obvious in a space, the olive green colourway has a more subtle look, so it is more likely to blend into or complement a room.

An electric heater will complement your existing central heating system rather than replacing it. It’s great for when you want to heat one room, rather than crank up the thermostat and heat the whole house. Dunelm’s square heater doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the leading heaters on the market (our best rated is the Morphy Richards HeatFlux, Tower Fan Heater, £89.99, B&Q), but this is to be expected at its £30 price point.

What it does offer is an adjustable thermostat, fan-assisted heating and 1500w of heating power. Don’t expect it to heat large rooms; it is a tabletop heater after all, but it is perfect for warming up home offices, small bedrooms and, of course, you. It's cheap to run, too, costing around 39p per hour, according to Ideal Home's Energy Calculator.

Some reviews do mention that the heater comes with a safety leaflet that warns you should never place the heater on carpet. In its product description, Dunelm does say this heater is suitable for placement on desks, so ensure you avoid carpeted areas upon purchasing. What the reviews do say is that this heater offers impressive heating power.

'Its great powerful mini heater. Warms up room very quickly and design is very adorable. The only reason why one star missing its because of "Caution leaflet". Says "it must stand on solid, non flammable surface. DO NOT stand the heater on carpet"... This is UK, every single room has carpets, everywhere, where else I am supose to put it then?' says one.

'I needed a small heater that I could move from room to room to take the chill off. This was ideal and it throws out a great heat too. It was very welcome at work recently, when the office heating broke down...' said another.

At £30, the Dunelm Small Olive Square Heater is a great affordable choice for those of us looking to reduce our heating costs. However, if it’s not the right model for you, here are three more options Ideal Home’s reviewers have tested and rave about.

Dunelm's little heater is both stylish and affordale. And with good reviews to boot, it is definitely worth a try.

This is not a drill! M&S’s light-up candles have returned to stores, and they're already listed as bestsellers on the website. As we’ve learned from the previous two years, these candles sell fast, so don’t hang around if you want to pick one up for yourself.

Over the past few years, M&S have dropped their light-up Christmas candles in September, and they quickly sell out. While I hate to beat the Christmas drum before we’ve even had Halloween, these candles are worth picking up now to avoid disappointment nearer to the best day - trust me, I’ve seen one in action.

And this year, the M&S light-up candles have had an update compared to their typical snowy cityscapes. Here’s everything you need to know before they sell out again.