Step aside Facebook Marketplace, Vinted and eBay: IKEA is launching their own secondhand marketplace, and it will be available to customers in the UK later this year.

Admittedly, I have a fair amount of IKEA furniture in my home, and I love an IKEA DIY hack as much as the next person - so while I am a little biased, I’m pleased to be bringing you this news.

The Swedish furniture brand has always been known for its affordability, but for those of us looking to snag an even cheaper deal or shop more sustainably, Here’s everything we know so far.

This week, it was announced that IKEA’s second-hand marketplace would be arriving in the UK in the coming months, following successful pilots in Sweden and Norway. The IKEA second-hand marketplace is a dedicated space where consumers can buy pre-loved IKEA products. Similar to other market platforms, customers can interact directly with each other to buy and sell items locally.

IKEA hasn't released many details about the launch, just that it is happening. But Spain’s platform offers sellers the chance to earn an extra 15% when they sell via IKEA’s marketplace. The Spanish marketplace also states that every purchase is verified by IKEA and covered by free buyer protection.

What we do know, however, is that customers will need to be signed up as an IKEA Family member to use the marketplace.

‘At IKEA, we are always looking for new ways to make life at home even better and help our customers discover products they love. With the launch of IKEA second-hand marketplace in the UK, we’re taking a meaningful step toward creating a destination that simplifies access to pre-owned IKEA furniture,’ a spokesperson for IKEA said.

‘Our goal is to make passing on beloved IKEA pieces as seamless as possible. We’re creating a trusted and vibrant space to make it quick and easy for our IKEA Family members to trade directly with one another. We want the process for buying and selling pre-owned IKEA products are simple, accessible and rewarding.’

So, if you have a BILLY Bookcase or KALLAX unit that no longer serves a purpose in your home, watch this space, as someone else can breathe a new lease of life into it.

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

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

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

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

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

My top IKEA KONSTRUNDA picks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Smart work from home accessories

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

IKEA’s cult KALLAX cube unit has just received a stylish new update, and its sultry new colourway taps into one of the year’s biggest colour trends.

Despite being a simple cube storage solution, there is no shortage of brilliant IKEA KALLAX hacks to transform your home into an organised yet stylish space. However, this stunning new update is so good that you won’t even want to hack it!

If you’ve been a fan of all the rich, dark red tones that have dominated this year’s colour palette, you’ll be a huge fan of the cult furniture buyer's sleek update. Drenched in a rich, red-brown, this retro update has breathed new life into the flatpack classic.

I don’t know many people who haven’t owned a KALLAX unit at one point, or at the very least opted for a similar KALLAX alternative. I love mine. It's a great living room storage idea, where I can keep my items tucked away, whilst allowing for some cubes to display photographs and other trinkets.

But having spotted the stunning dark red KALLAX, I’m thinking about trading in my white flatpack for an upgrade. Dark, rich red hues have dominated 2026 as we shift towards moody, intimate interiors. Red is a timeless choice, and dark reds are full of warmth and character.

IKEA describes its red KALLAX as a ‘brown-red’, and with what looks like a matte finish, the unit has a gorgeous retro look that looks way more expensive than its £70 price tag. It also has a different design to the original KALLAX, with spaces in different sizes that you can personalise with inserts in boxes. It certainly looks more ‘high-end’ than the original; it offers more opportunity to make it unique to your tastes.

You can even purchase the new design with an underframe for an even more elevated look. Choose from a vertical KALLAX with underframe for £85 or a horizontal KALLAX with underframe for £90. If you already have a KALLAX unit, you can purchase the underframe separately for £20. The underframe really adds to the luxe look of the unit, and if I didn’t already know it was IKEA, I wouldn’t believe it was just £85.

I’m not the only one impressed with the KALLAX’s stunning new colourway; it’s earned quite a few words of praise online, too.

‘Easy to assemble and looks really good in a moody space’, said one review.

‘We waited a long time for it to come back in stock in our country, and we finally managed to buy it. It’s a mini library for my son’s books and a display case for his LEGO creations. I love the colour - that’s what drew me to it. I’d love to see more colourful Kallax units! 🤩’ said another.

I can imagine this KALLAX will be pretty popular, and if you find your local IKEA is lacking in stock, don’t worry, as I’ve rounded up a few more affordable options you can shop online.

IKEA’s moody, red KALLAX takes the classic storage unit and makes it look effortlessly stylish and expensive. It looks so good, your guests will never believe it’s flatpack!

IKEA has a shiny new cookware set that takes inspiration from high-end lookalikes with much heftier price tags and taps into one of 2026's biggest colour trends.

The GULDÖRING 7-piece cookware set, available now for £59 via IKEA, is available in a burgundy shade that our Decor Editor predicted would be this year's most stylish colour. If you're on the hunt for one of the best saucepan sets on a budget, or looking for the perfect non-stick frying pan, this set is well worth a look.

And as well as being available for a bargain price, it's lightweight and oven-safe. Here's a closer look at the set I'm sure is about to become an IKEA staple.

IKEA cookware has long been a mainstay of uni kitchens and first-time homes, but our five-star review of the brand's bestselling set (HEMKOMST) proved its more than a starter brand for pans. Its alternative to the bestselling Always Pan by Our Place, which I've also tried, is another hugely popular pick.

Now this new iteration, GULDÖRING, is bringing colour into the mix too. IKEA has experimented with colour and cookware before, but usually with products available for a limited run.

Burgundy was hailed by our Kitchen Editor, Holly Cockburn, as 'the colour replacing pink' in kitchens in 2026. It's a warm, cosy colour that clicks if you want to create a warm, inviting space.

'Burgundy has been a huge kitchen colour trend in 2026, and although it doesn't appear to be going anywhere, opting for burgundy cabinetry can feel risky,' says Holly.

'This cookware set from IKEA is a great way to try the trend without breaking the bank - I would keep them on show on either a stove top or via hanging pot storage to let the colour do the talking.'

For under £60 this aluminium set should cater to most of your everyday cooking needs. It features a frying pan (with a 28cm diameter), 2 saucepans (with a capacity of 2 litres and 1 litre) and a large 5 litre pot for your batch cooking sessions.

This set is compatible with induction hobs as well as all other hob types and is oven-safe thanks to its metal material. Each pan also has a hole in the handle if you favour a vertical pot storing system.

And weighing in at 4.2kg for all of the pans, this is certainly a lightweight option if you often struggle to manoeuvre pans on and off the hob.

If you're feeling less adventurous in your colour choice you can also pick up the GULDÖRING set in the standard black shade for the same price via IKEA and enjoy all of the same features.

Compared to the price of our best-rated pan set (Le Creuset's stainless steel set) this IKEA set is a steal, but it does feature a non-stick coating which some shoppers are looking to avoid with their next cookware purchase. The debate around non-stick coatings on pans is still very much alive and well but the bottom line is most budget pans will feature some kind of coating. It's definitely something worth thinking about as you invest in your next set.

This GULDÖRING set is just one of many standout buys that have been flooding IKEA's new-in kitchenware section recently. I've added this incredibly good value KLIPPKAKTUS set to my basket already to organise my fridge but I've got my eye on this £4 dish drainer too.

It can be hard to strike the balance between a cluttered countertop and a well-stocked one, especially when creating a dedicated space for making tea and coffee. In my time as Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor I've learned one of the things that those with organised coffee stations always have is some kind of tray or organiser to curate their nook around.

And now, I've found a very affordable solution to do just that: enter IKEA's £5 NÅLBLECKA organiser.

This versatile organiser is one of the brand's new-in kitchenware gems – alongside a bargain £15 fridge system and £4 hideaway dish drainer. Here's why it's genius for doubling storage space either on your worktop or in your cupboards.

The reviews accumulated for the NÅLBLECKA organiser collection show off its versatility. Of course, the flexibility of these Scandi-inspired products is the reason why so many IKEA hacks flood social media feeds every week, and with a little bit of vision even a humble £5 organiser like this one can help to switch up your space.

While one user has so far remarked that they were using it as a mug holder, another has already been using it as a method to keep loose cooking items organised.

The version with a tray on the top and bottom has a 4.8 star rating out of 5 from 496 reviews, with a whole host of reviewers saying it's a great fit for cooking oils and jars that need to be within easy reach.

For a coffee station specifically, the gap underneath the £5 organiser works well as it gives space for mug stacking – especially for those oversized mugs space which need to stack together without being restricted. Up top, the tray element is a good spot for tea bags, sugar or coffee too.

If you're stuck for space horizontally on your worktop, the legs of these organisers allow them to stack together too which is great for making the most of any vertical storage space you have.

The debate on what should be left on a kitchen worktop and what should be tidied away is always alive and well at Ideal Home towers. If there's one thing we all agree on though, its that one of the the things that people with a tidy kitchen worktop always have is a clutter bucket or tray to collect loose items.

Of course, the NÅLBLECKA is a kind of elevated tray but if you want something more interiors-led, these are the picks I would opt for in the ultra-organised kitchen of my dreams.

Whether you opt for IKEA's ultra-affordable organiser or one of these alternatives, the key to a curated and less chaotic kitchen countertop is all in picking the right place to gather your must-haves. Are you all for storing things on your worktop or do you prefer to hide everything away?

Everyone has one IKEA product they just can’t get enough of – from the viral BILLY bookcase to the simple but effective KALLAX units. But my standout has always been the RÅSKOG storage trolley. And its latest design upgrade has given me yet another reason to love it.

IKEA’s RÅSKOG storage trolley is a fan favourite, and for good reason. The slim design features three tiers of deep storage, perfect for smaller spaces or homes with limited surface area. And the easy-to-manoeuvre castor wheels help it slot seamlessly into any room.

I have a dark grey RÅSKOG trolley as storage in my small bathroom, housing everything from toothpaste and toilet paper to skincare products and makeup wipes. And, when I was at university, the trolley (complete with a NORRÅVA bamboo lid) was a game changer in my tiny accommodation.

I had a white trolley tucked neatly into a corner in my dorm room, where I stored a plethora of student essentials, from textbooks to make up. When the top shelf wasn’t in use, the bamboo lid transformed my trusty trolley into an extra surface.

As much as I’ve always loved the RÅSKOG, I often found myself longing for a colour that suited my style a little bit more than just black or white. And now, I’m spoilt for choice, as the RÅSKOG has launched in 4 new colourways.

IKEA’s products are often a go-to when it comes to transforming tiny homes, and it’s no secret that the brand makes storage fun. The new and improved RÅSKOG is proof of this, with 4 new colours – beige, light turquoise, pink, and red-brown – that are guaranteed to put a summer-ready spin on your storage solutions.

The pastel pink colour was the first to catch my eye. It feels fresh and fun, without stealing too much attention from the rest of your scheme. Pink kitchens are having a moment right now, and I think this subtle trolley would be a perfect kitchen companion – whether you use it to house those cupboard essentials you always find yourself reaching for, or stock it full of drinks and nibbles when hosting.

Or, for those who prefer a deeper shade, the red-brown trolley is a timeless piece that will elevate your storage from cluttered to chic. The terracotta style dropped earlier this month, making it IKEA’s latest RÅSKOG launch, and it’s one to consider when upgrading your small living room storage ideas if you’re searching for something both classic and practical.

The beige trolley is a great choice if you want your storage to be an extension of your scheme. It will subtly blend into your scheme, without the stark nature of the other monochrome colours. But, I have my eye on the light turquoise design for a fun pop of colour.

Alongside these new colour upgrades, IKEA have also introduced a slightly larger version of the trolley which is designed to suit every space. With prices starting at £19, you won’t want to miss out.

Shop alternatives

Missed out on the cult IKEA trolley? Don't worry, try these instead.

As someone who lives where space comes at a premium, I rarely spot a new home collection that will actually work with the contours of my home. But IKEA’s new KOMPISHÄNG collection features designs that will actually work with small homes and rentals.

IKEA is great at tailoring the latest home decor trends for smaller, urban homes. In true Scandi style, they offer simple, stylish and effective storage solutions that don’t break the bank and make your home look good.

And the one piece I’ll be rushing out to buy is the KOMPISHÄNG set of two stools (£40), which also double up as a shelving unit.

This isn’t the first IKEA collection that merges both style and practicality with ease. Back in May, I previewed IKEA’s PS Collection at their Swedish headquarters and left mightily impressed with their dedication to making small homes look good.

The KOMPISHÄNG has a similar vibe. Landing in stores and online from 1 August, this collection was designed with moving in mind. The designs are simple, crafted from pine, and are easily portable - perfect for busy city life.

‘Even if you move often, you don’t want your home to feel temporary. We saw how carefully people chose the things they carried with them from place to place, and that insight shaped the collection. We wanted the collection to be portable but still have a permanent look; people should feel settled and considered,’ Dora Ding, Product Developer at IKEA of Sweden.

I want to make a further point. This portability makes the collection an equally solid small living room, bedroom, kitchen or home idea. As someone who has a small, one-bed flat, I’m already opting for foldable furniture that easily tucks away when not in use.

I have a mid-century folding dining table (mine's thrifted, but it looks somewhat similar to Wayfair’s £118.99 Solid Wood Dining Table). I also use folding wooden dining chairs (£21, Habitat), which tuck away when not in use. One thing I lack is extra storage space when guests visit, hence my interest in the KOMPISHÄNG stools.

The KOMPISHÄNG stools are currently the talk of the Ideal Home office, with two team members (besides myself) already stating they will be heading out to snap them up once they drop.

The stools offer a double function, allowing for seating space and then shelving space when not in use. IKEA describes the stools as slotting together to make a ‘sculptural tower’, designed for shelving.

The legs slot together like puzzle pieces, locking to form a strong unit. The green painted seats become your shelf, and are the ideal shape for adding plant pots, photo frames and other trinkets.

It won’t take up much space and easily disconnects to form extra seating when you need it. As someone who doesn’t have extra space for chairs for guests, these stools would be a game-changer for hosting small groups. I also think you can play into their portability, taking them camping, for example.

Small space dwelling can be stylish; you just have to be smart about it. Here are a few more brilliantly stylish space-saving products I recommend for small homes.

The KOMPISHÄNG is packed with a stylish yet practical design. If you have a small home or a family member heading off to university this autumn, it’s one you won’t want to miss.

One of the most practical ways to cool down during the summer heat is simply with a cool glass of water – but what if you could upgrade yours to a spa-like experience without spending more than £10?

That's what you get with IKEA's new KLIPPKAKTUS water dispenser (£9), which has so many clever design features to make staying hydrated a treat rather than a chore.

I'm on a mission to organise my fridge to perfection when I move into my new flat in a few weeks, and this water dispenser is being added straight to my basket in the same order as these fridge organisers. Here's why.

A fridge with an in-built water or ice dispenser is obviously the pinnacle for staying refreshed at home but they're usually pretty pricey and if you, like me, are a renter you won't be able to install one even if you wanted to.

That's where this clever IKEA buy comes into its own. Not only is it the perfect size to slot onto your fridge shelf but its also equipped with a healthy capacity for keeping you hydrated all day – 4 litres is more than enough to see you through a day.

You don't need to fill this dispenser straight from the tap every time you refill it. You can save the faff thanks to the smart pull-back opening at the front of the dispenser, which also gives you access to the in-built filter.

This filter is what gives you the ability to serve up spa-like infused water, flavoured with lemon, lime or mint, without any off-putting floating bits in it too. If you pop those into the filter compartment, you'll get all of the benefits of your detox drink without the texture.

The tap element has more than one use, too. It's the classic kind you'd find on a mason-jar type dispenser, which means that you can control the flow of water without much effort. According to IKEA, 'if you want a lot of beverage to flow out, just push down on it, and if you want just a little, turn it 180° and push down until you're satisfied.'

So far, from 89 user reviews, this KLIPPKAKTUS dispenser has a 4 out of 5 star rating from customers, with some even commenting they use it more than their built-in version, thanks to its easy-clean nature.

One reviewer comments 'My water dispenser on my fridge was under the door shelf, and I found it got really grubby, so we decided to try this. It's amazing – easily topped up, rarely leaks, and the size is just perfect. Love the little filter option as well, where you can add lime or cucumber to flavour your water a little.'

Having a steady flow of perfectly chilled water during the recent heatwaves certainly seems to have won a lot of IKEA fans over to this affordable buy. Below I've found some other Ideal Home approved fridge organisers that can help you stay hydrated during this hot summer and help you keep things tidy.

Here's to a more organised fridge that keeps you drinking more water this summer!

It can't just be me who feels like the job of keeping a fridge clean and tidy is a never-ending task. Just when you think you've got a handle on it, your spinach has wilted and your spring onions are looking sad.

That's why I ran to add IKEA's newest addition to their KLIPPKAKTUS range (which is dedicated range of gadgets that organise your fridge) to my basket – this bargain 6-piece set is just £15!

This handy collection of transparent storage boxes in various sizes is tailor-made to keep your veggies from giving up on you before you've had a chance to use them, and makes keeping on top of an organised fridge a total dream.

Joining the range's bestselling herb container and can organiser, this is the easiest all-in-one set I've found to do a hard reset on my fridge. Here's a closer look.

I've tried a fair few fridge and cupboard organisers in my five years as Ideal Home's Kitchen Editor. The biggest lesson I've learned? A variety of different container sizes is essential in effectively tackling every type of food you need to store. Different shapes are a good idea too, as I've found with storing leftovers in my round microwave-safe stainless steel containers.

That's where this affordable set from IKEA excels. The two larger containers, which measure 14cm in height and have a depth of 32cm, allow plenty of space for leafy or bulky veg – broccoli or pak choi will have no trouble slotting in.

The four mini boxes, which are 8cm high and 29cm long, give you space for all of those other foodstuffs that sometimes go nasty at the bottom of a plastic bag. I'm thinking cherry tomatoes, radishes, spring onions and more.

Another feature I'm definitely going to make the most of with these organisers is the fact that they're designed to be used in conjunction with sticky notes, to remind you exactly how many days you have to use up your veggies. The handle pull at the front retracts just enough for you to pop a Post-It underneath.

There's been a bigger focus than ever in 2026 in keeping the fridge a mess-free zone – Dunelm's affordable selection of organisers were a huge sell out in January and you can never go wrong with a JosephJoseph investment for a sleeker kitchen, as the brand's fridge storage line proves.

Here's a selection of Ideal Home approved buys that our editors swear by for keeping their fridges in top-tier condition that would pair excellently with this excellent IKEA set.

Who knew fridge organisation could come in so many different forms?!

Considering we’re in the midst of a second heatwave, and it’s only the start of July, it’s about time you invested in a lightweight summer duvet (if you haven’t done so already). If you’re a hot sleeper who hates not having a cover, IKEA’s £50 BLÅNEPETA duvet has you covered - at just 2.5 tog, it’s ideal for sweaty nights.

If you’re too hot to sleep, there are plenty of duvet alternatives we recommend to ensure you get your beauty sleep on sticky, humid nights. When the best duvets feel too hot, opting for bedding such as a flat cotton sheet or using a Dohar is a far cooler option.

The IKEA BLÅNEPETA duvet is one of the lowest togs you can buy and promises to help keep you cool this summer. Here’s how it shapes up.

IKEA states this duvet is perfect for ‘warm nights when you want to cosy up but remain cool.’ It uses blue lyocell material, which it states feels cool to the touch and wicks away moisture, keeping your sleep environment dry and dry.

‘IKEA's BLÅNEPETA duvet looks like a good choice for hot weather. Lyocell is smooth, silky, and cool to the touch, and the 2.5 tog rating is one of the lowest warmth levels you can get. Duvet tog does go down to just 1 tog, but many of us like something a little weightier to sleep under, even when the temperatures are hot,’ adds Amy Lockwood, Ideal Home’s sleep editor.

However, due to its synthetic material, some experts say it won’t offer the same cooling experience as a lightweight natural fibre or bamboo duvet.

‘2.5 tog is a sensible weight for summer and will suit most people who find an empty bed uncomfortable. The BLÅNEPETA uses a lyocell filling, which is a form of recycled polyester, and that is where I would flag a consideration,’ says Richard Lord, founder of bedding company Lost Loom.

‘Synthetic fillings, however lightweight, do not breathe in the same way natural fibres do. They tend to trap moisture against the body rather than wicking it away, which means you can feel warm and clammy even if the tog rating itself is low.’

Instead, Richard recommends an option for a lightweight duvet filled with natural fibres or bamboo. For example, John Lewis' 2.5 tog cotton duvet (£85 for a double). However, IKEA’s BLÅNEPETA is a great choice for smaller budgets, and the reviews do highlight its suitability for summer nights.

‘It's not magical, but it is very good. I love having a coverlet that's got more weight than a sheet but is still light. I've seen reviews that complain about the colour showing through duvet covers, but honestly, why use a duvet cover? I'd love it if it came in more colours, but the blue is really pretty. As a perimenopausal woman who wants to keep the bed as cool as possible, this is what I'm going to be sleeping with all summer,’ said one reviewer.

‘After going through several down comforters, I finally found my perfect weight and warmth level for S. Florida. And love the price,’ said another.

Alternatively, I’ve found a few more affordable options you can shop online.

Don’t let the heat necessarily disrupt your sleep. As summers are set to heat up in the coming years, it’s a good idea to invest in a lightweight summer duvet now.

Aside from budget-friendly flatpack furniture, IKEA is also becoming well-known for its clever problem-solving designs. The just-dropped IKEA GREJSIMOJS playmat is the latest addition to the lineup as the foldable mat turns into a toy storage box or even a ball pit within seconds – and what parent can resist a genius product like that?!

The £29 mat is part of IKEA’s wider children’s GREJSIMOJS collection released earlier this year and filled with playful designs like a giraffe-shaped floor lamp or a clothes stand taking on the look of a potted cactus. But while the previous GREJSIMOJS drop was more fun and playful, this genius toy storage idea is a more functional addition.

The three-in-one design makes toy clean-up super quick and easy. After your little one is done playing on the mat, you can simply fold it up - still with the toys on top of it - using the eyelet fastenings the design comes equipped with and turn it either into a cube-shaped storage box or a wider, lower shape which can fit under a sofa or a bed as a hidden toy storage idea. The latter configuration can also be used for play, turning it into a small ball pit.

Existing customers are already loving it. One reviewer wrote, ‘I love such well thought-out products – that's why I had to grab it immediately when I discovered it under new products at IKEA. Great workmanship, absolutely practical, does exactly what it should! Fits under our IKEA sofa when low.’

The only downside that customers are disappointed with is that when folded into a storage box, the GREJSIMOJS doesn’t fit into a KALLAX unit. ‘I got so excited about this for our Lego collection. Then I saw the dimensions didn't fit in the kallax unit and now I'm trying to work out where we can store it,’ a reviewer wrote.

Similar alternatives

On top of all of that, given the GREJSIMOJS mat’s multifunctional design, it’s also a great buy for any compact spaces, whether it’s a small playroom idea you’re after or if you want to squeeze a play area into a small living room.

This IKEA mat is set to become every parent’s favourite toy storage solution and a secret weapon for quick toy tidy up.

I'm somewhat obsessive about keeping a clean sink area. Seeing as I don't own a built-in dishwasher, keeping standards high can be difficult, but I think it's about to get a little bit easier with my discovery of IKEA'S £4 dishdrainer that's designed to be neatly hidden after use.

The concept of the IKEA SPJUTLILJA is simple: it's a slim bucket-shaped dish rack that you can use to quickly and efficiently put your dishes away once they are dry. It's tailor-made for small kitchens like mine and is compact enough to be easily packed away after use, too, so that I can have that clean-countertops look I've always dreamed of.

As a renter, until I can employ one of the off-worktop dish rack solutions of my dreams, this excellent £4 buy is going to see me through. Here's a closer look.

Despite its very enticing £4 price tag there are a few features built-in to this handy little buy that go a long way to helping keep your kitchen clean. The first of those is handles, so that you can take this mini bucket from the sink to your cupboards and cutlery draw with no difficult manoeuvring neccesary.

And if you're eagled eyed, you will have noticed that the SPJUTLILJA also has no holes for draingage. That's great news for carrying it around your kitchen but you may think is a lot less useful for successful drying.

That's where the textured surface on the bottom of this drainer comes into its own. The grooves and edges are designed to keep your dishes lifted above the base of the drainer, where the water will gather, leading to dry dishes that are quickly ready to be put away.

As well as being ideal for compact kitchens (like mine!), this drainer also doubles up as a handy travel piece if you own a mobile home or like to go camping. As per IKEA's website, it is only suitable for the washing up of 1-2 people due to its small nature. But if you wanted a supplementary putting away drainer for your larger family kitchen, it could work for that too.

If you're lucky enough to have a dishwasher, this drainer could be another supplementary piece to help you lift everything out of your appliance and put it away around your kitchen too.

Keeping a sink area tidy is a topic of constant discussion here at Ideal Home. Just last week our Editor-in-Chief Heather Young was singing the praises of this inexpensive stone rest, which is perfect for keeping the area dry and banishing damp.

Lots of editors on the team also swear by Joseph Joseph for their sink essentials. Their dish drying racks have genius features, including multi-levels and carry-away cutlery holders. Here's a few of the tidy-sink picks that the team couldn't be without.

Alternatives

With these clever buys, you'll be closer to a cleaner sink at all times of the day – I guarantee it!

Shoes are the biggest contributors to clutter in every home, and they tend to pile up in a messy heap in the most inconvenient spots. This is even worse when space is limited, and it can be a major source of stress for those who want to maintain a tidy hallway… or just want to stop having nightmares about shoes every day.

That’s why it’s well worth looking towards our Swedish space-saving saviours for handy IKEA shoe storage hacks, and I’ve found one that turns even the smallest of nooks into a useable space for a whopping 20 shoes. In fact, as soon as I spotted Ali from @shemadehome turn a tiny space in her hallway into the ultimate shoe storage area, I knew she was onto a winner.

Not only is this IKEA shoe storage hack extremely practical, but Ali managed to create that built-in look on an incredible budget of under £85. This is how she did it.

Like many looking for shoe storage ideas for small spaces, Ali was inspired to bring this IKEA shoe storage hack to life when the jumble of shoes in her family home had become too much.

She told me, ‘As a family of five, we have a lot of shoes. We wanted to maximise this dead space in our porch, and found that the Ikea BISSA units fit perfectly.’

And while these BISSA units are already marketed as shoe storage thanks to the different pull-out compartments, Ali wanted to take her hack one step further. So, she bought two different sizes - the smaller BISSA Shoe cabinet with 2 compartments (£30 at IKEA), and the slightly larger BISSA Shoe cabinet with 3 compartments (£45 at IKEA).

She then stacked the smaller cabinet on top of the larger one, attached them to the wall to prevent toppling, and added some decorative trim to enhance the built-in look. This cost her just a few pounds from Wickes.

To finish it off, she colour-drenched the units in the same colour as the rest of her hallway - Little Greene’s Clay Mid Paint, which starts at just £5 depending on the pot size. And as you can imagine, Ali was over the moon with the result, especially as she turned what was previously dead space into a stylish shoe storage solution for up to 20 pairs of shoes.

She told me, ‘The result is a huge amount of shoe storage, on a shoestring budget, that looks incredible too.’ However, she’s not the only one who has turned to IKEA’s BISSA units for an organised hallway.

Ideal Home’s Editorial Assistant, Maddie, recently moved in with her boyfriend and raved about her IKEA Bissa shoe storage too. And while she didn’t add trim or paint it like Ali, it still totally transformed her hallway - and she hasn’t had to deal with shoe clutter since.

But if IKEA hacks aren’t quite your style, it’s still possible to buy ready-made shoe storage for smaller spaces. These are my picks as an Ideal Home Editor.

You just can't go wrong with an IKEA hack!

Long summer days spent in the garden are here and on the horizon for the foreseeable future. But once the sun sets, you’ll still want to illuminate your outdoor space and create a cosy, magical atmosphere. And the IKEA SOLVINDEN solar lantern is the perfect tool for that – as not only is it stylish, it’s also selling for just £11 a pop.

Both modern and chic, as well as whimsical garden lighting ideas have been all the rage this season since lighting’s not only functional but also an easy way to elevate an outdoor space, much like it does inside your home. And somehow, the IKEA SOLVINDEN outdoor lantern manages to be both modern and chic while being whimsical, too.

The lantern shape references fairytale-like Japanese garden lighting ideas. But as with most of its designs, the Swedish retailer put a fun and contemporary twist on the classic by streamlining the shape and giving it a more sculptural look, finished with a pistachio green colourway.

The lantern runs on solar energy, which means it charges during the day when the sun is out and then utilises the power once the dark sets in and turns it into light. It’s part of a wider IKEA SOLVINDEN outdoor lighting range which also includes popular designs like the SOLVINDEN lamp stand and the LED decoration lighting in a range of colours and sizes.

But the lantern is currently beating both in terms of popularity as it’s the sixth bestselling outdoor lighting design from IKEA. And existing customers are already obsessed with it.

One reviewer wrote, ‘Great quality! The solar panel stores energy perfectly, so the lamp stays lit late into the night. It’s ideal for placing the lamp on a windowsill or a patio table.’

Meanwhile, another customer pointed out that the lamp can even withstand light rain. ‘Very nice, it illuminates well and has always worked even when wet. I love it.’

But if you like the idea of outdoor solar lanterns but are not 100% sold on the IKEA style, I’ve found a few alternatives that are just as chic.

Stylish solar lantern alternatives

Are you going to add a solar lantern light to your garden this season?

If you’re hosting guests this summer, a comfortable sofa bed is a must-have to ensure happy, relaxed guests and right now, IKEA’s stylish LANDSKRONA sofa bed is £500 off.

IKEA is holding one of its biggest-ever summer sales, slashing prices on up to 500 outdoor and home essentials. But it is the inclusion of some of the best sofa beds that caught our eye. While sofa beds can be high-ticket items, they are an essential if you’re a household that frequently hosts.

So, if you’ve been looking to upgrade your guest bedroom ideas, it may be wise to make the most of the IKEA summer sale. Here’s everything you need to know about the LANDSKRONA sofa bed.

Having spotted the LANDSKRONA Sofa Bed was reduced from £1,199 to £699, I immediately spoke to Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor and sofa bed expert Amy Lockwood to see if this was a good deal. Having tested countless IKEA sofa beds, she’s found the Swedish brand produces sofa beds that offer a great mix of style, comfort, and affordability.

'Having spent the past five years testing some of the best sofa beds on the market, I've found that IKEA sofa beds are always great value for money. The fact that this sofa bed offers a double sleeping area - so it can sleep two guests at a time comfortably - and it has hidden storage makes it a great buy in my book,’ she told me.

The LANDSKRONA 3-seater sofa bed is made with thick grain leather on the exposed surfaces and treated fabric elsewhere. The hidden storage Amy mentions is underneath the seat, and is perfect for storing extra bed linen, duvets and pillows when not in use.

IKEA states the sofa is firm and comfortable to sit on, while its built-in slats enhance sleeping comfort once pulled out. The sofa bed comes with a 10-year guarantee, and you have to buy the legs separately.

This is not the only IKEA sofa bed to catch our attention. The recent PS collection £550 sofa bed nailed its brief of ‘playful functionality’, serving up an effortlessly stylish design. Alternatively, the Habitat Kota Sofa Bed is an affordable, yet stylish design home editors love, with Amy even going as far as to say: ‘it's hard to find a better value three-seater sofa bed than the Kota.’

IKEA Summer Sale is running until Sunday, 12 July, so don't hesitate to snag a great deal now. Alternatively, I’ve rounded up a few more stylish sofa beds for under £500 you can shop online.

IKEA sofa beds are a great value for money, even when not on sale. If you’re looking for a bed that will house extra guests and look good, too (without costing a bomb), the LANDSKRONA is a great choice.

When it comes to choosing outdoor furniture, sometimes the most unassuming designs can end up being the best choices for your space. This is especially true when it comes to shopping for small garden ideas.

If space is at a premium, your furniture should not just be pretty, but practical too, with smart design features that make the piece work for your space rather than against it. And IKEA's new outdoor coffee table ticks each of these boxes and more.

Unlike traditional garden coffee tables, which are intended to sit still in one place, IKEA’s new launch is designed to be moved. With slim legs that extend up into top handles, you can move the lightweight frame around your garden, patio or balcony with ease, transforming how you use your space this summer.

If there’s one thing this summer has shown us already, it’s that IKEA is leading the way in innovative, space-saving garden furniture. From compact garden cabinets to hidden storage seating options, the retailer is making it easier than ever to enjoy the sunshine when space is limited. The MÅBÄRSSKÄR coffee table is no exception to this rule, and I think it might just be one of my favourite launches yet.

At first glance, this coffee table looks unassuming with its sleek white finish and small top tray. However, at a closer look, it’s an innovative and affordable addition to every small garden. And the table’s lightweight portable design makes it easier than ever to host when space is a little tight.

If you are limited to a small balcony or patio this summer, you’ll be familiar with the feeling of wishing you could free up space at the click of your fingers. And with this table from IKEA, it’s pretty much that easy.

When you find yourself needing an additional surface while hosting, you can easily pick the table up and place it down wherever you like. Then, when it’s no longer required, you can simply move it out of the way using the slick handles at the top of the table.

The table’s tray is chic too, with a thoughtful design that’s small enough to not overwhelm your space, but big enough to accommodate everything from drinks and nibbles to games and outdoor lamps. Plus, whether you choose to keep it outdoors or store it inside when not in use, its deep setting and curved walls add a modern touch that will suit any scheme.

And that’s not all, the table also features two built-in holes on either side of the tray. These allow rainwater to drain through, without compromising the look or lifespan of the product. The sturdy and durable powder-coated steel surface will require some maintenance to maintain appearances though, but a quick wipe down with warm soapy water after use should do the trick.

Garden coffee tables aren’t new, but this one is a guaranteed game-changer this al fresco season. Whether you carry it in and out of the house to replenish and serve drinks and snacks, or just use it as a temporary table when visitors arrive, it’s a smart solution when hosting in small spaces this summer.

And, for only £29, I predict it’ll fly off the shelves. So be quick if you want to get your hands on this nifty piece of garden furniture.

Shop similar

If you missed out on IKEA's portable coffee table, here's some more smart tables to add to your wish list.

If you’ve recently visited IKEA’s website or one of its physical stores, you may have clocked a notice announcing that IKEA is discontinuing the popular MALM chest of drawers.

That’s right, this is your last chance to shop the iconic MALM range. But fear not as there will be a new range taking its place. However, this is a sentimental moment for many as they would have grown up with a MALM chest of drawers, first debuted in 2002, much like I did with a HEMNES one.

After all, IKEA MALM hacks are among the most popular IKEA hacks out there, since the design is so budget-friendly and makes for the perfect blank canvas for an easy DIY project.

Over the years, there have been issues and concerns over the safety of both the MALM and HEMNES chest of drawers and their tipping hazard. This is why the new STORKLINTA range set to replace the MALM - and that looks almost identical to the original style - comes with a safety feature that prevents the pieces from tipping over.

'Product development and democratic design is fundamental to IKEA,' IKEA spokesperson said to Ideal Home. 'Part of that is constantly evaluating, improving and adapting to the wants and needs of the many people. We know our products carry real and special meaning in homes all over the world and we are committed to meeting people in ways that reflect how they live today. As part of that commitment, parts of the MALM range will be phased out globally as we introduce more options built around the preferences and needs of people today.'

The safety feature doesn’t allow for more than one drawer to be open at the same time in order to prevent the risk of tipping. However, if you anchor the chest of drawers to the wall – as is recommended – this unlocks the safety and allows you to open all the drawers together.'

While the STORKLINTA chest of drawers is set to take the place of the MALM in the near future, at the moment, the STORKLINTA series only offers wardrobe doors, with the chest of drawers yet to launch in the UK.

Meanwhile, there are rumours of the IKEA HEMNES getting discontinued in the future, too. Especially since there have been the same tipping safety concerns surrounding it as with the MALM and the HEMNES is set to be discontinued in the US. Not to mention that the newly launched IKEA GULLABERG range looks strikingly similar to the HEMNES. But according to IKEA, the HEMNES is staying, at least for now.

'Other IKEA families, including HEMNES will still remain and you will be first to hear of any changes,' IKEA spokesperson says.

While it’s sad to see the classic MALM go, at the same time, the STORKLINTA style replacing it looks almost identical.

Not to mention that many other brands stock similar designs to the MALM these days. These are a few of my favourites, and they're all even more affordable than the original MALM.

Exact dates and timelines are not yet confirmed, other than that the ranges of chests of drawers are going to be axed by the end of the year. But as soon as more information becomes available, we’ll be sure to let you know. So watch this space!

When you think of IKEA, you probably think of larger flat-pack furniture and, of course, the meatballs. But if you know where to look, you can come across smaller (and much cheaper) products that will transform your home in more ways than you’d think. The OSTBIT Plate Holder (£2 at IKEA) is the perfect example of that.

There are so many small home clutter-busters I swear by as an organisation-obsessed Ideal Home Editor, but IKEA always seems to nail the easy and affordable storage options. That’s largely because this Swedish retailer knows how to design products that serve so many different purposes - like a dish rack that can be used in every room of the house.

At first glance, the OSBIT Plate Holder appears to be a relatively unassuming product. But there’s a reason why customers are buying up to seven of them to organise their home, as this £2 game-changer can be used to store everyday essentials, maintain a tidy kitchen, show off precious collections, and so much more.

Made from bamboo and consisting of two rows of six pegs, the IKEA OSBIT is designed primarily as a plate holder and dish rack. This can help you keep your worktops tidy when washing up, while also protecting - and perhaps even showing off - the plates in your drawers or cabinets.

But as IKEA explains in the write-up for the product, ‘You can also use the plate holder for anything from lids and chopping boards to letters and children’s puzzles.’ And the storage and organisation solutions don’t stop there.

Ideal Home’s Digital Editor, Rebecca, swears by this £2 dish rack to organise the pots and pans in her kitchen cupboards. She told me that the compact rack not only keeps clutter at bay but also makes it much easier to grab the pot or pan she needs at the time.

And if you’ve always dreamt of open shelving in your kitchen, you could also use a few of the IKEA OSBITs - coupled with a few shelves like this Anika Floating Shelf (£19.99 at Amazon) - to fake it for a much more affordable price.

Happy IKEA customers have also raved about the multi-purpose nature of this £2 product, too. At the time of writing, it has over 1,000 reviews with an average star rating of 4.7 out of 5, with one customer raving, ‘This little item is more than you think.’

They add, ‘This item is so useful, it's incredible. It stores plates, DVDs, and books near the bedside, ready to read on your bedside table; it can also make a rack to hang things on, etc. It’s amazing; I always buy from IKEA when I go in. I have seven now!’

Another wrote, ‘I picked this up in store to use as a bow maker for crafting, but after seeing other hacks online, I have fixed it to a shelf by the bedside as a rack to keep my phone & tablet while charging them. Also, a handy place for TV remotes. I can imagine picking up more of these over time as I find new uses for them!’

So, the opportunities really are endless! And for just £2, you really can’t go wrong.

More multi-purpose storage solutions

Will you be snapping one up?

Last week's heatwave gave us all a glimpse of the summer months to come, so it’s time to nail the details of our gardens before al fresco season is in full swing. Lighting is one of the most important aspects to consider, and it really can make or break your outdoor experience.

When looking for garden lighting ideas, it’s important to choose something that looks as stylish switched off as it does when switched on. And you want to ensure a soft glow that will elevate the ambience of your space, rather than dazzling your guests. It sounds like a tricky balance, but I think IKEA’s new solar lamp has ticked every box.

It’s not often that you find garden lights that are as pretty as they are practical. But the SOLVINDEN decorative light from IKEA is exactly that.

The lamp’s mesh casing immediately caught my eye, and not just for its intricate detailing. It acts as a seamless filter which diffuses the light in a way that adds to the ambience of your evening. Whether you place it in the corner of your patio or use it as lighting in your outdoor kitchen, it’ll provide the perfect glow.

That’s not all. The lamp is also an eco-conscious choice. With a solar panel hidden within the stylish design, it takes between 9-12 hours to charge on sunny days before automatically turning on in the evening. This eliminates the need for any cords or batteries, making the lamp the perfect pick if you’re looking for something portable this summer.

Plus, with sculptural detailing, the lamp doubles as a decorative accent for your garden during the day. What’s not to love? If your garden is on the shady side, the lamp is also available as a smaller battery-powered light in pink and green.

Solar lighting is having a real moment this year, with retailers like The White Company and Next putting a stylish spin on the trend with price tags to match. But did I mention that IKEA's version comes at the budget-friendly price of £17?

It’s the perfect way to add a luxury look to your outdoor space without breaking the bank. So be quick, I predict this chic lamp will sell fast!

Shop other solar lights

If you missed out on IKEA's stylish solar light, here's some other options that will help to elevate your summer evenings.

There's a new material on the block that the most organised food preppers are raving about: stainless steel. And IKEA's new 365+ food container collection, with prices from just £5, is absolutely worth your attention if you want to make the switch and get your fridge (and freezer!) looking a little more shipshape.

Last month I wrote about how changing from glass food storage to stainless steel had totally transformed my weekly food prep routine. The main benefits? The lightweight feel (perfect for work lunchboxes), the easy-to-clean surface and the fact that the material is very resistant to smells and oils – because after all, what's worse than a musty food container?

Now IKEA is taking the stainless steel trend by storm with its ultra affordable collection. Here's a closer look at the 365+ range and how it compares to the fabulous (though more expensive) Black + Blum versions I recently tried, which also have the added benefit of being microwave safe.

IKEA's 365+ collection already has thousands of five-star reviews from those who have made the switch to stainless steel, with customers noting that they love using them in their air fryer and being able to stack them for storage.

Plus, there's the added benefit of mix and matching across lid materials. For meals or foods that you plan on stacking in your fridge, the corresponding bamboo lid for the size container is a good choice, as it not only looks great but means you can cut down on plastic.

If you want to pop both your containers and lids through the dishwasher, as well as take your lunches to work, IKEA's selection of plastic lids will come in handy. Plus, if your main use for these containers is for freezing, plastic is much better suited to that process than bamboo.

As well as multi-functionality in terms of cooking and storing, I've discovered that stainless steel is such an easy material to clean. While I previously found that glass containers could hold onto bits of food and require soaking, stainless steel is much easier to get back squeaky clean with no scrubbing required.

And while we've all experienced the dreaded tomato-stained effect on plastic containers, stainless steel doesn't hold onto smells or oils in the same way. It's a less porous material and therefore much better for holding your foods.

For me, there is a big kicker with the IKEA range: the containers don't appear to be microwave safe. That means that if you do want to reheat your leftovers, you'll likely need to use your air fryer or oven, or transfer your food into another bowl.

I think that sounds like a lot of faff and for many, it might negate some of the benefits of switching to stainless steel from plastic. Alternatively, the ability to microwave leftovers in stainless steel was one of my favourite things about Black + Blum's range when I tried it. Though much more expensive, the brand's meal prep containers have plenty of features to make the extra spend worth it including microwave compatibility and vacuum-seal lids.

Whether you need a microwave-safe version or not, I can promise you that making the switch to stainless steel is very much worth it if you're a keen meal prepper. Would you consider making the change to make day to day cooking and storing easier?

If you have a small hallway, you’ll already know that space can come at a premium. But luckily for you, I spotted a genius new space-saving rack with retractable hooks in IKEA's new PS Collection, and it’s perfect for tiny hallways.

Last month, I was lucky enough to preview IKEA’s latest PS Collection at IKEA HQ in Älmhult, Sweden. Amongst the high-ticket statement pieces, I was truly impressed by this simple yet effective storage solution.

Simply named Rack with 5 hooks, this rack will help whip your hallway ideas into shape in no time. Here’s why I think it is great for small spaces.

It’s no secret that the IKEA PS Collection has seriously impressed the Ideal Home team. From its viral flexible floor lamp to the Scandi-cool sofa bed,

The latest to impress is, without doubt, this clever hallway storage solution. I have a teeny tiny hallway, and space really does come at a premium. Honestly, there is nothing more rage-inducing and overstimulating than stumbling over coats, bags and shoes left by the front door. And while the John Lewis Fold Out 3 Tier Shoe Rack (£85) is perfect for keeping shoes stashed away, without taking up much horizontal space, this rack is equally ideal for hanging bags, coats and scarves.

The Rack with 5 hooks has five retractable hooks that you can click back into place when not in use. This means that it takes up very little space. It’s a modern twist on the classic Shaker peg rail, featuring bold blue pegs against the birch wood. The entire PS Collection has an emphasis on ‘playful functionality’, and I think these pegs nail the brief.

The cheery blue tone is great for adding a pop of colour to your hallway, while its space-saving feature makes it a practical choice for small homes.

‘When you live in a small space, you need easy ways to get things off the floor and up on the walls. IKEA PS 2026 rack with 5 hooks looks just as great whether in use or not – it offers more than a practical function,’ designer Ellen Hallström said of her design.

‘Since the hooks only stick out when you use them, the rack takes up very little space. Also, it’s a nice way of displaying things and works perfectly for hanging up the IKEA PS 2026 mirror.’

I’ve been so impressed with the retractable hooks, I’ve gone down a bit of a rabbit hole to find similar, clever storage ideas - here are a few I found.

If space comes at a premium in your home, this £12 solution is an excellent choice. What do you think?

When it comes to small space hosting ideas, IKEA is having an absolutely storming year.

The brand already launched one of the best sofa beds I've seen hit the market this year in its PS 2026 sofa bed design, and now it's launched one of the best chair beds I've seen in a *long* time.

In fact, I think the uber contemporary Skiftebo Chair Bed is set to become a design icon of the future, and I can't believe this designer-look small-space solution is only £250.

The Ideal Home team first set eyes on the Skiftebo Chair Bed when our news writer, Kezia Reynolds, flew over to IKEA's design headquarters in Älmhult, Sweden, to cover the launch of the brand's new IKEA PS 2026 collection.

Designed around the central theme of 'playful functionality', the IKEA PS 2026 collection is fun, practical, and – like all of IKEA's range – incredibly well thought through in practical terms.

The collection is also jam-packed with small-space-friendly designs, of which the Skiftebo chair bed is certainly one.

Many of us don't have the space in our homes for a larger sofa bed, and for those of us living in smaller spaces who still want the ability to host a guest, I think a chair bed is the ideal solution.

A chair bed certainly feels a lot more 'intentional' than offering your guest a blow-up mattress, even if it is one of the best air beds on the market.

Plus, as designer of the Skiftebo chair bed, Matilda Lindstam Nilsson, shared with Kezia at the IKEA PS 2026 launch, a chair bed is designed to offer 'many functions in one'.

In the case of the Skiftebo, this means that by night it can be unfolded to become a spacious single sleeping space, whilst by day it doubles up as a very stylish and contemporary accent chair.

And its space-saving build was something Matilda factored in from the start of the design process. 'Of course, you can place it in the living room if you have a big house,' says Matilda, 'but my first thought was to design it for small spaces.'

That means this chair bed has a small footprint that makes it perfect for squeezing into a home office or kids' bedroom.

Although, to my mind at least, this chair bed is far too stylish to let the kids have all the fun!

After all, unlike a lot of chair beds that are on the market, IKEA's Skiftebo isn't just functional furniture. Instead, it features design details that really elevate it into a statement focal point in a room.

I think its design-led look makes it appear a *lot* more expensive than you'd expect from its very reasonable £250 price point.

'It has a lot of IKEA identity,' agrees Matilda, 'it's modern, and we worked a lot with the details to make it smart, functional, and playful.'

From the button detailing and the metal frame that supports the back cushions, to the removable and washable cover that makes for easy maintenance, it feels like every aspect of this chair bed's design has been well considered.

And it's that attention to detail, alongside its contemporary yet timeless design, that I think will make it an IKEA cult classic of the future.

That said, this isn't the only stylish and modern chair bed on the market. I've rounded up a few of my favourite alternatives below so you can compare what's out there and decide if IKEA's new Skiftebo launch is the one for you.

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Recently, we’ve had the best BBQ weather, and if the heatwave has resulted in you looking to upgrade your outdoor cooking capabilities, pay attention as IKEA has just dropped a new cast iron BBQ for just £45.

The best BBQs can be a pricey investment. And while the pro chefs amongst us might be happy to part with a large chunk of cash to curate their outdoor kitchen ideas, I’d rather find something that cooks well, without costing an arm and a leg.

IKEA’s SOLUPPGÅNG BBQ does just that. Here’s why it's a great, affordable choice this summer.

Cast iron cookware often remains unmatched due to its high heat retention, even heat distribution and natural non-stick. So it’s not really much of a surprise that it’s a great BBQ material, too.

While you may associate the best charcoal BBQs with Kamado grills, which are ceramic, these tend to be more expensive - a Big Green Egg will cost you well over a grand. However, Habitat’s Mini Tabletop Kamado Charcoal BBQ is a more affordable option at £120. But, at £45, IKEA’s new cast-iron BBQ is one of the most affordable alternatives I’ve seen.

Not only is IKEA’s SOLUPPGÅNG BBQ made from quality cast iron, but it’s also portable, making it a great option for taking to the beach, park or camping. It’s super easy to move thanks to its practical handles.

Its cast iron material allows heat to spread evenly across the grill, while vents increase the air flow in the bowl, allowing for higher grilling temperatures and quicker cooking.

It’s even been designed for grilling porous and small food items such as fish and vegetables. This is because the BBQ's grate is designed to prevent pieces from falling into hot coals.

The cast iron has already been pre-treated with vegetable soybean oil. IKEA says that if corrosion or food stains tarnish the BBQ, or if food burns and sticks to it, you can clean it with steel wool or an abrasive sponge and then reseason it.

It may be new to IKEA, but this BBQ already has a few reviews praising its quality.

‘Great for taking on camping trips, small backyard bbqs, etc. Easy to fit a few skewers on the grill. As it’s full cast iron, it takes a long time to cool - so not ideal for the beach or short trips out if you want to put it back in the car,’ says one.

‘Stunning little BBQ! Portable and easy to use. Stays HOT for a long time. Great for Steaks. Well made and with care will last forever,’ says another.

IKEA’s SOLUPPGÅNG BBQ is already selling fast and has been limited to large orders online. Alternatively, here are a few more affordable, yet well-reviewed BBQs you can pick up online.

If you love delicious BBQ food, it’s important to invest in a decent outdoor grill. IKEA’s BBQ is both affordable and well-rated, making it a good choice.

Ever since its release two years ago, IKEA’s DYVLINGE swivel chair has become one of the brand’s bestsellers. And while I’ve always liked the shape and the comfortable design of the armchair, I could never quite get on board with any of the available colourways. But with the new launch of the beige colourway, that’s a thing of the past.

Selling for £199 a piece, the DYVLINGE design is also known as IKEA’s anti-stress armchair. But truth be told, I’ve always been quite stressed by the stark colours that the bestselling swivel chair came in – a bright orange, bold green and black.

I’m by no means against colour, but these particular shades are very bright. And I'm also no maximalist - which the former two colours are perfect for - and a dark black armchair would take too much visual space in a small living space like mine.

On the other hand, the just-dropped beige IKEA DYVLINGE chair is so much more versatile as this neutral shade will go with any style of living room and any living room colour scheme – and between the timeless silhouette, high levels of comfort and now a more palatable shade, I’m seriously tempted by this living room seating idea.

It still comes in the same corduroy fabric which is perfect for injecting some interesting texture into your lounge.

Part of IKEA’s archival NYTILLVERKAD collection, the DYVLINGE swivel chair is set to be one of the future classics. And this more universal colourway makes it even more likely to become one.

Although, the design’s future spot in the IKEA hall of fame is already pretty much guaranteed, since the DYVLINGE chair is based on IKEA’s MILA swivel armchair, first launched in 1967.

The only potential downside of the DYVLINGE swivel armchair is that it doesn’t actually have armrests. For many, this is not an issue – but if you prefer your living room accent chairs with armrests then Habitat’s Dawson swivel chair boasts a very similar design to the IKEA DYVLINGE and it comes in a neutral colourway, too – as well as more statement colourways like electric blue, red and charcoal.

This sellout Habitat swivel chair usually retails for £200 but with the code RED20 applied at checkout, you can currently get 20% off, making it only £160!

Are you thinking of adding either of these retro 1970s-inspired swivel armchairs into your living room?

IKEA has just launched a new sofa bed as part of its PS 2026 collection, and this minimalist design scores big in the style stakes.

What's more, the brand's new launch costs just £550 for the three-seater design.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past five years testing all the best sofa beds on the market, and let me tell you, for a sofa bed of this size, that's very good value.

This sofa bed is a part of IKEA's 10^th Signature PS Collection. First launched in 1995 at the Milan furniture fair, according to the brand, 'the IKEA PS collection was created to challenge the design world's exclusivity by making modern Scandinavian design accessible to everyone.'

The 2026 collection features 44 brand new product launches created by 12 designers, and IKEA has dubbed it 'a celebration of 'playful functionality'. I definitely agree. I think there are some cult classics of the future within this year's PS Collection, and this sofa bed is one of them.

Like all of IKEA's best designs, it's a super simple concept that's executed well. This three-seater sofa bed features a clean-lined wooden frame upholstered with quilted seating. It couldn't be more Scandinavian chic if it tried.

And transforming it into a sleeping area couldn't be simpler – you literally lift off the back cushions, and there's your 92 x 204cm bed. (That's the equivalent of a standard single bed's worth of sleeping space).

In fact, it's almost more of a daybed than a sofa bed, but those plump back cushions make it a lot more comfortable as an occasional seat.

Worried about the fact it's white? Thankfully, IKEA has thought of that. The PS 2026 sofa bed has a removable cover that can be machine-washed at 40°C.

Will you still want to add one of the best mattress toppers to protect the sofa when guests sleep on it? I would say so, but knowing you can stick the covers in the washing machine to freshen them up is still a great bonus in my book, and a feature very few sofa beds offer.

And did I mention it's only £550? I've rounded up some similarly budget-friendly alternatives below for comparison, but to my mind, that's very good value and makes the IKEA PS sofa bed well worth having on your radar if you're looking for an affordable way to host overnight guests.

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Last week, IKEA dropped the long-awaited PS 2026 collection in its physical stores. And from the 1st June, the bold, playful range is also going to be available online.

There’s been a lot of buzz around the launch with some of the hero pieces first introduced to the attendees of this year’s Milan Design Week last month – and the IKEA PS 2026 floor lamp was the highlight everyone was talking about. And it’s clear that this flexible lamp design is set to become a future design classic.

Designed by 12 different designers, the IKEA PS 2026 collection is the tenth installment of the Swedish retailer’s PS range, first introduced in 1995 also in Milan. And from day one, it’s been known for coming up with now highly coveted design classics, whether it’s the IKEA PS 1995 keyhole clock which has recently been reintroduced into the brand’s offering in electric blue (it was originally bright red), or the easily recognisable IKEA GULLHOLMEN rocking chair from 2002 which you can now only score on resale sites like eBay.

Yesterday, I got to see and try the majority of the PS 2026 collection in person. And I understand the hype around the versatile £35 IKEA living room lighting idea which has gone absolutely viral since the collection drop.

I’m sure as years and even decades go by, its popularity will remain, owing to its versatile design which can be readjusted in three different ways. It reminds me of the also hugely popular Habitat Cone adjustable floor lamp but it takes the design a little further.

‘As a designer I was trained that multifunctionality never works, which I do think is the case in most cases,’ the designer of the IKEA PS 2026 floor lamp, Alexander Pott, said to Ideal Home’s News Writer, Kezia Reynolds who recently got to visit the IKEA HQ in Älmhult, Sweden.

‘If you want to combine two functions, both of them don’t fully work. But I think in this case, it becomes almost like an archetype that’s reduced to the essence of a lamp.’

‘I made three lamps, three designs, each providing a different functionality – so an up light, a spot light and a reading light. And then having those prototypes done, I realised that they all had a similar characteristic, with a different functionality. But if I could only solve the joints by rotating it. Luckily, I managed to combine those three functionalities into one object.’

But the 44-product collection holds more than just one future design classic, at least in my opinion anyway. So these are the 6 pieces that I predict will go down in history – and which therefore make for great investments right now.

IKEA PS 2026 future design classics

Have you got a look at the new IKEA PS 2026 collection yet? Or are you waiting for the products to become available online?

I find that in life, there are certain things no one gives you the memo for, and then, when you finally discover them by yourself and realise everyone else knew about them all along, you wonder why nobody thought to tell you.

This under £3 IKEA bedroom storage solution is exactly one of those things. For those who have already discovered this no-drill game-changer, you can skip on by, but for anyone yet to discover the IKEA ENUDDEN; you're welcome.

After all, there's a reason this bargain buy has over 1000 5-star reviews on the IKEA website, and I'm certainly not here to gatekeep. It's been a game-changer when it comes to additional storage ideas for my small bedroom.

I know, at first glance, this no-drill door hook may not seem revolutionary, but let me tell you, for those of us who have hollow core doors rather than solid wood, plus anyone who rents and can't add their own fixings, or for those who don't have or don't want to use a drill, these over-the-door wall hooks are the unsung hero of bedroom storage solutions.

I use mine to hang dressing gowns on the back of my bedroom doors, and to organise clothing I want to wear the next day, or that's been worn but isn't yet ready for the laundry basket.

But the ENUDDEN can be 'any-room' storage, of course, not just bedroom organisation, because you can fit this hanger over any door in your house.

'I have bought 5 of these, as they are such good value for money,' shares one 5-star reviewer on the IKEA website. 'They fit over my doors with no issues... are very strong and can hold a good amount of weight.'

'Bought to hang on a door of a bedroom with no wardroom,' says another happy owner. 'Fits the door width and works really well.'

'Fits perfectly over door,' agrees a third reviewer, who also praises the 'protection pads' on the reverse of the hook that 'avoid scuffing the surface of your door. Would recommend.'

IKEA isn't the only place that sells this no-drill storage solution, of course. If you can't get into an IKEA store, then you can order online, but there are also options available at the following retailers.

However, the ENUDDEN is one of the best value options I've found when it comes to the combination of build quality, the amount of storage it offers, and its *very* reasonable £2.75 price tag.

As I say, if you already know about this no-drill bedroom storage hero, then this will be old news to you, but if you didn't... then your bedroom organisation just got a *lot* easier.

After all, in my experience, it's often the simplest solutions that make the biggest impact when it comes to keeping your home tidy and clutter-free.

The idea of soaking up sunshine in the garden always sounds appealing. But for some, the reality can be more stressful than soothing.

Whether you’re limited to a small garden, or have been cursed with nosy neighbours, you’ll be familiar with these feelings. But don’t worry – IKEA’s versatile new garden storage box might just be the perfect solution.

That’s right, this garden storage box from IKEA is one of the brands most innovative multifunctional pieces yet, and it’s here to take the stress out of summer with genius design features.

Like it says on the tin, this product features a nifty storage box made from luxe-look acacia wood that is treated to withstand all weathers to keep your garden cushions, toys or tools stashed safely out of sight. But that’s not all, the versatile design features a chic screen which rises up from the box to totally transform the look and feel of your outside space.

Made with a slatted hardwood, the screen is enough to maximise privacy in a way that still feels soft and stylish. For small gardens, this is a game-changer, as hard edges can make the space feel too enclosed and confined. Plus, outdoor areas that lack space can benefit from vertical planting, and this free-standing screen is the perfect vessel for climbing plants and vines.

And if these clever features didn’t already have you sold, the top of the storage box doubles as a built-in seat. This extra surface is particularly handy for small gardens or balconies where space is at a premium. With all of this available at a reasonable price point of £130, it’s clear to see why this multi-purpose storage box is flying off the shelves.

It’s no secret that functional garden furniture is the key to making the most of a small space. And by now, it’s also common knowledge that no one does stylish space-saving quite like IKEA. The brand’s clever solutions for tricky outdoor spaces always hit the spot with shoppers, and this storage box is no different.

The 3-in-1 design makes this storage box suitable for all gardens, no matter the shape or size. Whether you use the screen for added privacy, or decide to zone a larger space with it, the lightweight design makes it easy to move around the garden. This sense of flexibility is not always available with other garden screening solutions on the market. And the luxe-look wood detailing makes it feel extra special.

As part of the NÄMMARÖ range, the storage box isn’t the only stylish garden item you can get your hands on. From modular garden sofas to foldable reclining chairs, the series makes it easier than ever to save space outside, without compromising on style.

While there is so much to love within the NÄMMARÖ range, the storage box is a clear fan favourite. With a host of five-star reviews to attest to its quality, the box has already sold out of most IKEA stores. It's still available online, but I predict it will sell fast. And trust me, this is one you won’t want to miss.

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If you missed out on this small garden storage gem, don't worry. Here's some clever alternatives to add to your basket.

When IKEA designers were set the brief of ‘playful functionality’, what resulted was a 44-piece collection that not only set out to fill homes with joy, but also perfectly complemented small space living. As a homes journalist who is both design-obsessed and the proud renter of a tiny flat, these are the pieces I’d choose for my small space.

After a 10-year hiatus, IKEA’s hotly anticipated (thanks to Milan Design Week) PS Collection landed in stores today and will be available online from 22 May. Having started back in 1995, this is the 10th instalment of PS, a collection dedicated to good design and function at a low price.

I was lucky enough to have a sneak peek at the new pieces (and try a few out for myself). These are the items that caught my eye as a small flat dweller, and why I think these space-saving features also nail some of the biggest home decor trends of the year.

I headed to Älmhult, Sweden, to see the 2026 PS collection for myself, and it wasn’t the bold colours and sleek shapes that caught my eye, but the way these products could bring playful design to small spaces.

While Scandi design is typically stereotyped by minimalist, functional features, IKEA’s iconic PS collections combine these principles with colours and shapes that put a smile on your face. PS 2026 is a return to the Swedish brand’s Democratic Design principles - the idea that products should be both high-quality and long-lasting, at an affordable price point, of course.

‘I think with IKEA PS we really wanted to dig into where we come from with the Scandinavian heritage, but without being nostalgic, so we really wanted to look at where we come from and take inspiration from that, but move it into the future and the way we did it is by briefing 12 designers to do their version of that and see how that could surprise us in the team briefing,’ Maria O’Brian, Creative Leader of IKEA’s 2026 PS collection told me.

‘I think in the end the collection kind of speaks for itself that we got these playful functional objects.’

And for Maria to describe the collection in just three words: ‘playful, functional, and simple’.

Out of the 44-piece collection, it's safe to say there is plenty to sink your teeth into. Whether you're looking for practical hallway storage ideas or statement home decor items - notably Marta Krupińska's rocking bench, which was inspired by Oktoberfest and is designed to have buddies rocking side by side.

But for my small flat, it was Lex Pott’s Floor Uplighter that caught my eye and which is one of the pieces that are set to become future design classics. Available in three colourways - blue, yellow and red - this lamp has three-in-one functions. It’s an uplighter, spotlight and reading lamp, making it a great lighting idea for small spaces.

I’ve always dreamed of turning a corner of my flat into a cosy reading nook. While I’ve been eyeing up Habitat’s Dawson Accent Chair (£200) to squeeze into the space by my bookshelf, a space-saving lamp like this one offers multiple functions besides being a handy reading lamp.

Lex explained to me that he had put the design together using broomsticks at his Rotterdam studio. He then realised he could combine three lamps in one by using a clicking and rotating head, so you can angle it as you please.

‘I also gave the lamp to my 5-year-old son,’ he added. I think within 30 seconds he realised that it could move, twist and click. And within half a minute, he had the 3 options available.’

As well as the clever lamp, I was also drawn to Marta Krupińska’s Footstool with Storage. Made from two-tone wicker, this stunning design is large enough to act as both a stool, footstool and storage basket, with plenty of space to stash extra blankets and other living room essentials in its belly. The Ideal Home team are strong believers that storage options should always be pretty, and this footstool nails that sentiment.

I also can’t not mention the green, inflatable Easy Chair, which was designed by Mikael Axelsson. While the chair went viral after its debut in Milan for its innovative design, I was really impressed with how lightweight it is. Trust me, you can literally pick it up and toss it across the room - not that you’d want to, of course.

At just 7kg, this chair is perfect for small spaces because you can move it so easily. If you have extra guests or need the floor space, this chair can easily be moved out of the way and even deflated. Plus, having sat on it myself, it's really comfortable and supportive.

‘We have tried to make everything as feasible as possible for a small space living home,’ said Maria. ‘For example, for the air chair, when you live small, you might have to move your furniture to make space for dinner and then move something else to sit down and watch TV. It feels very generous and big, but you can easily lift it, even deflate it if you really need the space.’

I can’t wait for the collection to drop online, but if you’re feeling a little impatient, here are a few more small-space buys the Ideal Home team loves.

Alternative clever small space buys

The IKEA PS collection is genuinely impressive to behold. Marrying style and practicality, it’s a small home dream.

Sunny days are just around the corner. If you’re short on space this summer, it can be hard to really enjoy spending time in the garden. Sound familiar? I've just found the perfect solution.

This outdoor coffee table from IKEA’s LÅGASKÄR collection offers a clever fix for garden clutter. With a modern design and sleek beige finish, it's the perfect fit for any garden scheme.

However, it’s the hidden design features that make it a must-have item for small gardens or balconies this summer. The coffee table’s tray top is easy to remove, lifting off to reveal a wealth of hidden storage underneath.

The round, deep base of the table is the perfect spot to stash cushions, tools, toys and blankets out of sight, leaving your small garden clutter-free and set for summer. And it's only £50. What's not to love?

If you have a small garden or balcony, you’ll know just how hard it can be to think of smart ways to maximise your outdoor space. And this is especially true when summer is in full swing. Whether you’re hosting al fresco evenings, playing outside with your kids, or just pottering with garden tools, a build up of ‘stuff’ will soon become inevitable if your outdoor space lacks storage.

Traditional garden storage methods, like sheds or standalone units, aren’t always possible in gardens with limited space. And it can be especially hard to find a space-saving storage solution that blends practical functionality with summer style.

However, IKEA is on to a winner with its garden storage solutions this year. From garden cabinets to plant shelves, the brand’s outdoor ranges are seemingly designed with small gardens in mind. And the LÅGASKÄR coffee table is no exception.

Unlike some of IKEA’s other garden storage offerings, this table doesn’t require a free wall or fence to lean against. You can simply position the table wherever you see fit. And there’s no need to worry about durability either. Made from powder-coated steel and plastic, it’s built to withstand whatever weather conditions are thrown at it. Just wipe it with a damp cloth to keep it looking good as new.

No coffee table is complete without a few chairs, and IKEA’s matching conversation set is a great place to start if you have the space. But if not, this table will look just as striking on its own.

There’s no denying that this simple coffee table does it all and, at less than £50, it’s the perfect savvy solution for small gardens. But be quick, I’ve got a feeling it will sell out fast.

If you miss out, try these functional alternatives instead.

If you're looking for an easy, stylish and affordable way to carve out a dedicated outdoor living zone, IKEA's garden shade collection is full of really clever designs, and their HAMMARÖN pergola, £319, is one of those rare finds that punches well above its price point.

With its clean lines, neutral colourway and generous footprint, it taps into that outdoor room trend without veering into overly bulky or permanent territory, which is perfect as a small garden idea. It's ideal for anyone looking for a pergola idea that provides instant shade without making an outdoor space feel enclosed.

With so many things to consider when building a pergola, the HAMMARÖN takes away the guesswork, as unlike wooden structures, it is designed as a non-permanent solution. For anyone wanting an affordable, low-commitment garden shade idea, it offers easy style and shade when you need it, without all the major renovation work. Here's why.

At 3m x 3m, it is surprisingly generous, easily accommodating a full outdoor dining table set or a relaxed lounge setup. What stands out immediately for me is its minimal, Scandi-style frame in a light colour, which feels unobtrusive, making it ideal if you are working with a smaller outdoor space and want to maintain that feeling of openness.

And one of the most desired features of a pergola is a canopy, and this one features a retractable canopy, which allows you to easily switch between sunshine and shade depending on the weather. It's the ideal pergola roof idea. The machine-washable canopy is made from UV-protective fabric that helps block harsh rays, and the neutral colourway gives it a soft, airy look that suits most garden styles.

The power-coated steel frame is designed to resist rust and corrosion, too, which makes it a surprisingly clever, low-maintenance option for a seasonal outdoor structure. From a style and usability perspective, it ticks a lot of boxes, such as instant zoning, a high-end look, its flexible design and lightweight feel. However, there are a few things to consider before you buy.

This isn't a fully weatherproof pergola structure. IKEA recommends removing the canopy during strong winds and heavy rain to prevent damage, so it wouldn't be the best option as a way to keep a garden party going in the rain.

And while it's really only for fair-weather use, IKEA says it still needs to be securely fixed to the ground for stability. And while IKEA includes plastic pegs to secure it on a lawn, fixing devices for other materials, such as a patio, are not included.

So if you did want to place it on your patio, you would still need to invest in more heavy-duty masonry bolts or anchor crews to drill into your slabs or the ground. However, for a less permanent option, if you want to keep it a flexible garden feature, weighted planters or sandbag-style pergola weights, like these MASTERCANOPY weights, £17.95 from Amazon, can also help anchor the structure.

This stylish summer upgrade is one of the easiest ways to create a shaded, sociable spot for summer without spending a fortune or committing to a permanent fixture. It's one seriously smart buy that blends style, flexibility, and practicality.

I've tracked down some other equally helpful flexible pergola solutions to shop now, if this isn't the size, colour or price isn't exactly what you need.

For a quick, affordable garden transformation that delivers both function and style, IKEA's HAMMARÖN pergola proves you don't need a full overhaul to make your outdoor space look great this summer.

I am one of those people who *loves* an IKEA shopping trip. I live in a small home, and I can't think of anywhere else that offers such ingenious small-space living solutions as an IKEA store.

A quick wander through the brand's room setups usually reveals space-saving storage and organisation solutions that solve problems I wasn't even aware *could* be solved. Not without moving to a bigger house, that is.

And I'm not alone. There's one £2 bedroom storage solution in particular that IKEA shoppers can't stop talking about, and its 5-star reviews are testament to how this bargain buy can become a game-changer in a small bedroom.

As one IKEA reviewer says, it's 'one of those great IKEA items that you didn’t know you needed, but once you have it, you wonder how you survived without it.'

What is it? The IKEA KOMPLEMENT Valet Hanger. And although it may not be the most exciting thing you've ever invested in, if you work out the cost-per-use of this £2 buy, it could well be the best value purchase you've ever made.

As one of the KOMPLEMENT's 5-star reviewers shares, it may be slightly 'boring, but it's very, very useful'. 'A game-changer,' says another happy owner, 'love this product. Such a handy little gadget.'

However, you would be forgiven for not knowing exactly what this product is for at first glance. I certainly wouldn't have guessed, but, as it turns out, this £2 buy solves one of the biggest problems I have in my small bedroom.

Namely, where to put my clothes at the end of the day when they're not dirty enough for the laundry basket, but I also don't want to put them back in my wardrobe. And where to put the next day's outfit on those (admittedly rare) nights when I'm organised enough to plan ahead.

This problem used to be solved by a 'clothes chair' in my previous larger bedrooms (that is, a bedroom chair that quickly gathered all manner of half-worn clothes), but the KOMPLEMENT is a much neater solution, and one that works in a bedroom that now doesn't have space for much furniture beyond my bed and wardrobe.

'Such a useful gadget,' agrees one IKEA reviewer. 'Ideal for hanging your clothes on at night. I also find it useful for hanging newly ironed clothes on before putting them back into the wardrobe. Great space saver.'

'Perfect for storing clothes that you don’t want to put back in the wardrobe at the moment,' says another owner. 'So useful when putting together outfits. I also use it each night to hold my outfit for the next day.'

'Bought one for my son's room (and screwed it to the wall) to hang his week's school uniforms from,' shares another owner. 'A simple, well-made, and inexpensive solution.'

It's not the only small-space storage solution I've incorporated into my bijou bedroom (more on those below), but the IKEA KOMPLEMENT is definitely the most budget-friendly bedroom organiser I've come across.

After all, what costs £2 these days? And the fact that it's an item I use pretty much every day makes it even better value for money.

More small bedroom storage solutions

IKEA is not only incredibly popular for its affordable flatpack furniture for our homes, but once the sun comes out, everybody becomes obsessed with its garden furniture offering, too. But even though the brand is known for its super budget-friendly credentials, not all of IKEA's garden furniture pieces are as affordable as they seem. In fact, I found 4 IKEA outdoor furniture alternatives for less.

To be able to recommend the best garden furniture on the market, I regularly check various brands’ and retailers’ collections so that you don’t have to – and it’s on one of these recent ‘sweeps’ that I discovered a few more affordable alternatives for some of IKEA’s outdoor bestsellers.

It all started with the 17 Stories Dalvey Wide Rectangle Steel Loveseat, available at Wayfair for £283.99 for a two-seater outdoor sofa. As soon as I spotted it, I knew it was the perfect budget alternative for IKEA’s super popular HAVSTEN sofa, which retails for £480. Ideal Home’s Editor in Chief, Heather Young, owns a couple of the IKEA HAVSTEN three-seaters and when I showed her the Wayfair sofa even she said it looks pretty much identical. It's even more alike than the Habitat budget lookalike I found last year.

Top IKEA outdoor furniture alternatives

Which one of the IKEA outdoor furniture ideas do you think is best? And which one do you have your eye on? I would love to know. And if you still prefer the IKEA designs, that's entirely ok, too.

If you’re looking for space-saving solutions to make the most out of your small garden or balconies, IKEA’s latest garden range really is a Godsend, and their new KOLBJÖRN shelving unit has a multitude of practical uses for tiny outdoor spaces.

IKEA’s KOLBJÖRN collection is a game-changer for small spaces. Its genius space-saving garden cabinet is amazing at storing old pots and tools, and now it's KOLBJÖRN shelving using it perfectly for housing potted plants, extra pots and small tools and even doubles up as a seat - making it a great enforcer of your small garden ideas.

If you’re looking for ways to maximise storage in a small garden, this clever, neutral shelving unit can do a lot of heavy lifting (so to speak). Here’s why.

Anyone with a small garden will know the struggles of optimising storage in a tiny space. While it’s always helpful to declutter your garden once a year, it’s equally handy to have the practical solutions to hold your belongings.

Typically, garden storage solutions can take up a lot of space, which is why plant stands and vertical planting are so popular. Three-tier planters like B&Q’s £21 Flower Stand are often popular options for vertical gardening as they offer loads of space but little dimensions. At 80x45 cm, the KOLBJÖRN fits the bill for this type of garden storage. However, it has a couple of features that set it apart.

First of all, the KOLBJÖRN shelving unit is made from weatherproof powder-coated galvanised steel, so you don’t have to worry about it rusting, damp or sun damage. This material also means it's incredibly easy to clean; all you need is a splash of soapy water and a cloth, and it will sparkle in no time.

IKEA claims it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, suggesting it is perfect for garages, bathrooms and hallways, as well as balconies and patios. It even has adjustable feet so it can stand steady on uneven garden terrain.

If you need extra storage, IKEA recommends stacking two units on top of each other for a larger set of shelves. However, as just one shelf, it still works as a great storage solution.

The top shelf is perfect for holding potted plants, while the second can help keep pots, tools and other small garden items safely tucked away. What I would do is avoid putting plants on the lower shelf. This is because there is only 30cm between the two shelves, which would unfortunately limit how much a plant can grow.

I particularly like the idea of doubling the KOLBJÖRN shelving unit as a garden seating idea. Space-saving garden furniture is, as you would expect, typically small. Small sofas or bistro sets often only cater to two to four adults, so this handy shelf is perfect if you're hosting extra guests.

I predict this IKEA shelving unit will soon become one of the brand’s cult classics - it’s that handy. But I’ve also tracked down some other equally helpful garden storage solutions to shop now.

If space is at a premium in your garden, the KOLBJÖRN shelving unit is a multi-use storage unit that can really help. You’d be silly to let it slip through your fingers!

The sun has finally started to shine, and as if on cue, IKEA has just dropped a statement garden parasol for just £19, and along with its bargain price, I’m impressed with its retro style.

There's no question that parasols were the defining garden shade idea last year, and will be once again this year. So, I’d be willing to bet that many households are looking to shop for the best garden parasols right now.

May I suggest the IKEA STRANDÖN Bright Orange Parasol (£19) as a contender? Under £20, it’s one of the most affordable parasols I’ve seen, while its fun, retro print makes it one of the most stylish.

Honestly, IKEA’s garden range has been brilliant this year. From their small-garden approved garden cabinet to the ever-so chic plant stand, the Swedish retailer is feeding us the perfect amount of style and practicality.

Featuring bold orange splodges and a rich orange pole, the STRANDÖN is certainly eye-catching. It reminds me of the Habitat x Scion range, particularly their Mr Fox print Parasol (£30), which is a similar shade of orange.

IKEA’s orange STRANDÖN parasol is as functional as it is pretty. It has a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+, which means it will block 98% of ultraviolet radiation. The pole is made from steel with a powder coating to help it stand firm in your garden - a must, considering unpredictable British weather.

The parasol comes apart into two sections, fitting in it’s own slim bag, which is also adorned in the same bold orange splodged print. Because of this, the parasol is both easy to store in small gardens and sheds, and fully portable, too - so you can even take it to the beach.

I’m a big fan of the parasol’s scalloped edges, which add extra style and flair. This, and fringing, is typical of the designer-look parasols, such as Cox & Cox’s Retro Parasol (£165) or La Redoute’s Biara Fringed Parasol Garden Umbrella (£99.99). But, at just £19, IKEA is proving that an attractive parasol doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

IKEA’s STRANDÖN parasol has already garnered a few reviews online, with shoppers loving the stylish buy as much as we do.

‘Colour amazing, very well made, excellent value,’ one summed up.

Based on the excellent price and stunning design, I don’t believe this parasol will be in stock for long. So, I’ve tracked down a few more stylish options you can shop online.

A garden parasol has the power to make your garden look instantly stylish. And for less than £20, IKEA is doing all the hard work for you.

We’re all used to IKEA being the more affordable option whenever compared to, well, any other brand. But that’s actually not always the case. And the 17 Stories Dalvey steel loveseat, available at Wayfair, is the perfect example as this outdoor sofa looks just like a popular IKEA outdoor sofa. But it’s selling for almost £200 less.

While IKEA is still one of the best places to buy garden furniture as it combines low to reasonable prices with stylish Scandi design, it’s always worth shopping around to bag an absolute bargain like this budget alternative from Wayfair, selling for £283.99 for a two-seater. Meanwhile, IKEA’s lookalike HAVSTEN outdoor sofa, which is one of the Swedish retailer’s bestsellers, retails for £480 for the same size.

Ideal Home’s Editor in Chief, Heather Young owns two IKEA HAVSTEN three-seaters and even she pointed out that they weren’t exactly cheap as far as the best outdoor sofas go. And she also marvelled at how similar the Wayfair alternative looked to her IKEA sofas – or in her words, ‘pretty much the same’. Even more so than the Habitat alternative that I found last year, the Habitat Tallak garden sofa set.

The Dalvey outdoor sofa from Wayfair also comes in a three-seater version for £409.99 if you’re after more space for lounging, as well as the best garden chair for £139.99 if you don’t have space for anything larger. It’s already a hit with existing customers as one reviewer wrote, ‘Great chairs! Very comfortable and worth the money.’

While the IKEA HAVSTEN sofa only comes in the one off-white colourway - which the brand calls ‘beige’ (I suppose the armrest covers are indeed beige but I wouldn’t say the same for the cushions and steel frame) - the Wayfair sofa is available in two colours, the pictured white and grey. And while I’m usually not a big fan of grey garden furniture as it can come across as outdated, this grey looks more sleek and sophisticated than most.

Which one would you rather invest in? The IKEA version or the more affordable one from Wayfair?

IKEA has just dropped a slim, weatherproof cabinet, and it’s the perfect storage solution for tiny gardens.

I’d recommend adding the new KOLBJÖRN to your small garden shed ideas if you’re short on space this summer. Its slim size and neutral colourway mean it’s perfect for blending into the smallest outdoor spaces, from courtyard gardens to balconies. And, at £159, it is miles more affordable than a full-size garden shed, too.

If you’re using the spring months to get your garden in order, good storage is non-negotiable, and the KOLBJÖRN cabinet is the perfect option if space is at a premium in your outdoor space.

This time of year, it can be beneficial to declutter your garden, and with this comes the opportunity to improve your garden’s storage capabilities.

Whether you are a seasoned gardener who needs space to store pots, tools and the best lawnmower, or a busy family who needs space to store summer games and toys, a garden shed is fantastic for keeping a garden tidy, and your items safely stored.

However, those of us not blessed with large outdoor spaces know that sheds can be bulky and take up a lot of space - this is where the KOLBJÖRN cabinet comes in handy. At 90x161 cm, this slim cabinet can be tucked in against a wall on a patio, balconies or even in a garage. It’s weatherproof, made from easy-to-clean powder-coated galvanised steel.

IKEA has also added ventilation holes to the bottom of the cabinet to help keep the air flowing and prevent your items from getting mouldy when stored outdoors or in a humid place. It also has adjustable feet for stability on uneven surfaces. However, I would recommend anchoring the cabinet, especially if you have children or pets. You can pick up furniture straps for just £9.99 at Amazon to prevent accidental falls.

The outdoor cabinet looks a little like a wardrobe, with three large hooks inside as well as shelving. It’s a great place to store anything from outdoor cushions to garden tools and outdoor toys. It isn’t quite big enough for a lawnmower (maybe a robot lawnmower, like the Bosch VISIMOW18V-100 we recently reviewed in a small garden), but it should fit most tools, including spades and rakes. However, if you have an excess of bulky items to store, a small, wide shed like the Keter Store It Out Midi 880L Garden Storage Box (£130 at Argos) might be more suitable for your garden.

So far, the cabinet only has two reviews, but they are mainly positive, with one point out that assembly can be a little tricky - so take care if you’re not a DIY pro.

‘Beautiful looking product. Take your time on the assembly! Instructions are not super clear, but fine if you're methodical. Concerned about how waterproof it actually is, but proof will be in the use of it,’ says one.

‘The instructions for assembly were not correct and were confusing. For an inexperienced assembler, it might be a difficult process. But once the cabinet is assembled, it is useful and sturdy,’ says the other.

Alternatively, I’ve tracked down a few more storage alternatives that are suitable for small gardens.

Finding the right storage can be tricky if you have a small garden, but this space-saving solution from IKEA will really help keep it tidy.