Le Creuset has unveiled its newest collaboration with a franchise you might not have expected. The new Star Trek range, available to buy now from Le Creuset UK, boldly goes where no other cookware brand has before, bringing the two names together into one limited edition collection.

It's not the first time that the best cookware brand around has dipped its toe into the waters of pop culture. In recent years, it's featured collections with designs inspired by Harry Potter, Pokemon and Star Wars – all of which have gone on to become highly collectable.

So, whether you're a Trekkie or a Le Creuset collector, it seems these pieces are likely to fetch a pretty penny in the future. Here's a closer look at the range 'inspired by a legacy of discovery', some of which Le Creuset sent into the stratosphere (yes, really!).

The collection in its entirety spans 9 pieces but once they're gone, you won't be able to buy them directly from Le Creuset again. A quick look at how much the Harry Potter collection (released in 2021) now sells for on eBay is an indication of how in-demand these collector's items can become. I've even spotted a piece from the Le Creuset Star Wars range going for over £800 on eBay.

To celebrate the launch Le Creuset sent the flagship Enterprise Round Casserole from the range to the edge of space – quite the publicity stunt. Working in collaboration with Sent Into Space, the stunt marks the first time a cast-iron dish has reached the stratosphere.

So whether you want to collect a piece of space-making history or stock up on a Christmas gift for the Star Trek lover in your life, you'll have to act fast to snap up one of these pieces!

Recently, I’ve been spotting loads of clever washing up bowls that offer a dual purpose, and the latest to catch my eye is Dunelm’s Stainless Steel Washing Up Bowl with Strainer (£40), which is the must-have kitchen essential for anyone who grows their own fruit and veg.

Call me ignorant, but I hadn’t realised such an array of kitchen sink ideas were on offer. From the editor-approved Joseph Joseph bowl to Argos’ washing up bowl with built-in cutlery drainer, there really is something for every kitchen size and style.

Now, for those of you who have a vegetable garden or prefer organic produce, Dunelm is providing one of the easiest ways to wash and drain your fruit and veg. Here’s why I think it is a worthy investment.

Right now, you’re probably thinking about what to plant in a veg garden in autumn, but I want you to cast your mind ahead of time to its harvest. Or more likely, the crops you’ve recently harvested from your garden.

There’s nothing better than eating the fruits of your own garden, but it goes without saying that your produce will need a good wash and in some cases soak, after it comes out of the ground or off your plants and trees.

This is where the Dunelm Stainless Steel Washing Up Bowl with Strainer comes in. Alongside your standard washing up bowl comes with a steel strainer that slots perfectly into the bowl. So, you can dump your veg in, rinse it and simply pull the strainer out of the bowl when you're done.

‘This is very useful, especially with a hosepipe ban! So it’s like having a permanent colander in the sink and then you just lift that bit out and take the steel washing up bowl into the garden and water everything. It’s really surprising how much water you get through, so it’s very much worth using it,’ explained one review.

It’s also worth pointing out that stainless steel is also a more durable and hygienic choice than plastic for a washing up bowl. You can pick stainless steel bowls for very reasonable prices. For example, you can pick up a stainless steel washing up bowl for £16.99 at B&Q. Stainless steel is also more environmentally friendly. It can be properly recycled or reused, as well as lasting much longer compared to microplastics.

What makes Dunelm’s unique is the built-in strainer, which makes cleaning your fruit and veg before cooking or eating seamless. It’s a simple design addition but one that will definitely make food preparation faster and easier.

If you grow your own fruit and veg, consider investing in this clever washing-up bowl and strainer to make enjoying your autumn harvest easier.

For many, kitchens are considered to be the heart of the home. It’s where they wander to in the morning for that first sip of coffee, where they share laughs with friends, or enjoy a wholesome dinner with those they love.

A cramped kitchen can feel incredibly claustrophobic, restricted and unwelcoming, making it less of a space of sanctuary and more one you wish to leave as soon as possible. There are so many ways that a kitchen can become a cramped space too, especially when you’re working with a small kitchen like mine!

To help identify the problem areas that are making your kitchen look more cramped that it actually is I spoke to Helen Parker, creative director of deVol Kitchens, Fred Horlock, design director at British kitchen and home furnishing company Neptune, and kitchen design expert Tamsin Holland from Paula Rosa Kitchens.

They explained how colours and finishes in a kitchen can make a space feel more closed in, as can surplus furniture and items that create visual clutter. These were their top tips for the things that are making your kitchen appear cluttered and cramped and what you can do about it for a quick fix to open up the space.

1. Keeping too many items on your counters

Kitchen surfaces often find themselves becoming home to all sorts, from gadgets and decor to house keys, books, and more. However, the more items you leave out on your counters, the busier and, in turn, more cramped your kitchen is going to look.

Helen explains: ‘Kitchen clutter is a problem and is not the way to keep a calm and simple space. Just be selective; there is nothing more unappealing than a busy kitchen full of stuff, with no space to cook or enjoy the simplicity of something beautiful.’

Being selective about what you leave on your kitchen counters, as Helen suggests, will free up space, instantly opening up your kitchen visually. It will also allow you to see the items you love more, as choosing less with intention will allow each individual item to stand in its pride of place.

Something that has worked for me to help keep clutter at bay on my surfaces is using an attractive basket or a kitchen tray as a drop zone. Something neutral like the VonHaus Seagrass Storage Baskets from Amazon will give you a home for those little things that end up everywhere so your kitchen looks less cramped.

2. Using too many colours and finishes

If a kitchen is decked out in all the world’s colours and finishes, it can end up looking fussy and cramped. This is even more likely the case in smaller kitchens, which already run a higher risk of looking cramped due to their limited capacity.

Fred suggests sticking to one main kitchen colour scheme and accenting with others that complement the shade well to make your cramped kitchen look and feel as spacious as possible. He shares: ‘By painting cabinets, walls and even the ceiling in single or related shades, you soften the room's edges and remove visual interruptions, allowing the eye to move fluidly through the space.’

Light sage, dusty pinks or tranquil blues are good places to start when considering a colour palette for your kitchen. These are all relatively bright but also neutral, meaning they will work well with a lot of other tones, finishes and materials in the room.

3. Using dark colours without balance

An entirely dark kitchen will lack the balance achieved through adding contrasting accent pieces which lift the space and prevent it from looking flat and cramped.

Dark colours can look gorgeous and super classy in a kitchen though. If you’re hoping to keep a deeper palette in yours but don’t want it to look cramped, Tamsin advises: ‘Limiting darker shades to one key element and balancing them with lighter finishes helps create impact without making the kitchen feel heavy. A common approach is to keep deeper tones to lower cabinetry or an island, which grounds the space without closing it in.’

If you’re unsure what colours to opt for, using a tool like the RAL K5 Colour Chart from Amazon can be a great source of inspiration.

4. Overfilled open shelving

Open shelving is perfect for displaying what you love and keeping your kitchen items within reach. However, the downside of open shelving is how quickly it can look cluttered and cramp your kitchen if too much is stored inside.

To help remedy this, pause to first ask yourself these two questions when choosing to put an item on open shelving: Do I really love seeing this every day? and Do I need this to be something easily accessible? From there you can curate your open shelving to be both aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.

Tamsin adds: ‘Open shelving should feel well put together; if every shelf is packed, dust and grease have more places to settle.’

5. Excessive cabinetry

Wall-to-wall cabinets are excellent for providing extra storage but they can very much box your kitchen in and make it look cramped. Fortunately, there are ways to help with this that don’t involve dismantling a cabinet or two.

Fred suggests: ‘Including softer items like table lamps and artwork gives the space a more multifunctional feel and eases harsh lines.’

You can also paint your cabinets in a softer tone like cream or light brown or in a tone that matches your kitchen walls so that the cabinets stand out less in the space. This way, they won’t be a feature, instead blending into the kitchen as opposed to standing out.

If your kitchen is starting to feel a bit on the cosy side (and not in a good way) it might be down to one of these five culprits.

HexClad pans have been everywhere in the foodie world in the last few years, including in the kitchen of Gordon Ramsay, who is the brand's global ambassador.

Though I've tried a few picks from HexClad before, including the ultra-thin griddle pan made for pancakes, it was my trusted reviewer Home Economist Helen McCue who put the brand's full 7-piece set to the test back in 2024 in her review. She awarded the set five stars, saying these pans 'definitely live up to the hype'.

To see what all the fuss is about, I got my hands on the brand's Hybrid Pan (£149 via HexClad) back in June and I've been using it as my everyday best frying pan ever since. Here's what I like (and don't like!) about this bestselling pan after four months of continuous use.

1. The non-stick has held up well

I've used this pan a lot over the last few months and one thing that you can't fault with it is the non-stick. Though this pan does feature a non-stick coating of sorts, it's free from the 'forever chemicals' that many people are seeking to avoid.

With a little bit of oil, cooking eggs in this pan is a dream. That's still true even all these months on. That's probably to do with the fact that this pan, similar to my favourite ever pan from Our Place's Titanium range, has a raised, grooved interior. I find those grooves really help to caramelise and crisp whatever you're frying and mean that you can safely use metal utensils this pan without a worry. That's a huge plus for me.

The same non-stick capability goes for cheesy or other sticky foods too. That is, bearing in mind, if you follow the golden rule of not turning your heat all the way up to high when you cook. I think this is a fairly little-known thing about HexClad pans, but once you follow it you'll find that you're scraping food off your pan a lot less.

Of course, thanks to the non-stick elements within this pan it's a lot easier to get to grips to compared to uncoated stainless steel. Our expert Home Economist Helen McCue's retrospective on testing Ninja's newest stainless steel pan range has a great insight into making the switch to this harder-to-master material.

When I first started using this pan, I was having to use a truly dreadful electric cooktop, and this was the only piece of cookware that I could get any kind of result with. They're induction compatible too.

2. It cleans excellently

Thanks to its non-stick build, this pan is really easy to clean. It's not recommended that you put this pan into the dishwasher all the time (but you can occasionally and trust me, I have taken them up on that).

Unlike uncoated stainless steel, this pan has stayed immaculate now that I'm four months into using it. That includes the bottom of the pan too, which is the part exposed to my gas hob. It's survived without any scorch marks.

This is also a very lightweight pan (it weighs less than 700 grams), so handwashing it doesn't feel like such a pain. That's one thing it has over my beloved Our Place Titanium pan, which is weighty indeed.

3. It's versatile

I've been using this as my everyday pan for breakfast, lunch and dinner and it's excelled at a huge range of cooking tasks. Of course, it's great to use for frying specific needs like pancakes and tofu thanks to its shape and the fact that it comes with a lid is also great for saucier dishes.

It's not necessarily the best shape for all-in-one style dishes like the chicken fajita bowl pictured, but when put up to tasks like that it's still a very versatile workhorse. My preference is still for a pan that's slightly deeper day to day though – the brand's Deep Saute is probably a better fit for those things.

4. It's not quite big enough for batch cooking

I love doing big cooking sessions where I get multiple meals out of the way and I need a pan that can live up to that job. In many sense this pan is perfect for that (the great non-stick and easy clean nature) but in this 25cm size, it's fundamentally not quite big enough for all my needs.

When making the stovetop lasagne for four pictured below I really pushed the limits of this pan capacity wise so if you were cooking for any more than that, you'd definitely struggle. If you're considering this pan for family cooking, I'd either size up or consider the sauté-style pan I mentioned above instead.

Now I'm well established with using this pan, I'd definitely recommend HexClad as a brand to invest in for the long-term. If it's good enough for Gordon Ramsay, after all...

When it comes to painting the kitchen walls, there are some colours that just work. Stick them in most kitchens, and whatever the size, lighting, and decor choice, the walls will complement – and even enhance – the space.

And just like there are two sides to every story, there are also wall paint colours that have the power to ruin your kitchen's entire aesthetic. Even pro designers have a hard time pulling these kitchen colour schemes off, simply because they don't lend themselves well to culinary spaces.

So we can all avoid having to repaint our kitchen walls six months down the line, I asked designers to share the top five wall paint colours that can ruin your kitchen. Spoiler: bolder isn't always better.

1. Pure white

This one might not come as a surprise to some – many of us have been choosing warm-toned creams over bright whites for years now – but a white-washed kitchen is a no-go according to kitchen designers.

'A brilliant, cool-toned white can be surprisingly unforgiving in a kitchen, particularly in a north-facing room where the natural light tends to have a slightly grey quality,' says Charlotte Dubery, designer at Harvey Jones Brighton & Hove. 'Instead of creating the minimalist look that you might expect, it takes on blue notes that look quite stark against richer kitchen materials.'

Not all white kitchen ideas were created equally though. Charlotte recommends using 'off-whites, ivories or chalky whites instead, which adapt more comfortably to the changing light throughout the day.'

2. Primary red

Red kitchens can look chic, but the undertone matters. A harsh, primary red is much harder to pull off because it carries a lot of weight, which is an easy way to ruin a kitchen's entire look.

'Very bright, saturated reds can dominate a kitchen,' says John Law, creative director of interiors at Woodhouse & Law. 'Softer, muted tones on the other hand feel more considered and allow the cabinetry and other finishes to take centre stage.'

Warm terracotta or burgundy are lovely alternatives. There are a few ways you can try a burgundy kitchen, but the walls are often the best place to start.

3. Cool greys

Grey walls were once the cornerstone of modern kitchen aesthetics, but these days they're a little more drab than fab, according to the experts. Especially, says Charlotte, grey with a cool undertone.

'A cool grey can sometimes leave a kitchen feeling more one-dimensional than intended, particularly if the same blue undertones are already present in worktops and painted units,' she explains. 'Colour nuances make a real difference to the mood of a room, so I prefer warmer greiges or mushroom shades rather than blue-based hues.'

4. Bright yellow

The primary colours are a recurring theme when it comes to wall paint colours that can ruin your kitchen. Aside from harsh reds, bright yellows should be firmly off the walls if you want to create an inviting atmosphere in your culinary space.

'The intensity of bright, acidic yellow can easily overpower the visual in the grain of timber, the movement within a richly veined marble worktop or the undertones of painted cabinetry, rather than allowing those details to come through,' Charlotte says.

Essentially, bright yellow walls can dominate a kitchen for the worse. Try soft, buttery yellows or mustard tones instead. They'll imbue a sense of calm while still bringing a pop of colour.

5. Turquoise

Green kitchen ideas are still having a moment (sage green, we're looking at you), but walls that teeter into turquoise territory are a no-go according to design experts. Like with the primary red and yellow, the brighter a wall becomes, the harder it is to balance, which is what makes turquoise a hard shade to master in the kitchen.

'Painting walls turquoise can create too many competing focal points,' Charlotte says. 'Opting for muted teals or deeper eucalyptus shades instead will sit more effortlessly beside different cabinetry styles and surfaces, allowing greater breathing room to experiment elsewhere.'

Knowing the wall paint colours that can ruin your kitchen will help you make the right design decisions going forward – you're officially one step closer to creating the kitchen of your dreams.

Kitchen paint colours to try

Ninja's most innovative air fryer is now double the fun with the unveiling of the Ninja CRISPi DualZone 8-in-1 Function Glass Air Fryer (available for £299.99 via Ninja).

The CRISPi has quickly become one of the best Ninja air fryers out there, with its design that shuns non-stick plastics and is simply perfect for stuffing away into a drawer. But one of its major downsides, as I mentioned in my review, is that its capacity makes it suitable for one or two people only.

That's all changed with this double drawer version, which can cook two foods in two different ways and has an impressive 7.6 litre capacity in total – the same as the brand's bestselling OG Ninja Dual Zone. Here's a closer look at this glass version, which I'm sure is about to become a very popular choice for kitchens looking to get rid of plastic.

The functions on offer with this air fryer combine all of Ninja's best, I think. As well as Air Fry and Max Crisp (which is essentially just a very hot air fry mode), there's also Dehydrate, which will come in very handy around Christmastime. It's incredibly handy for dehydrating fruit (including oranges) for decoration as well as cocktail and meal garnishes.

As we get into autumn, another mode that I'd be very excited to try out is Prove. This setting modifies the temperature of the air fryer to foster the perfect conditions for rising your bread – perfect for cosy season and weekends spent baking!

The ability to use the Keep Warm setting will also be good given that this is a dual function air fryer. It means that once one side of your cooking is done, you can use the Keep Warm option on the other side and plate up everything at the same time hot.

The dual functionality is a real game changer for family cooking. The Match Cook button means that you only have to program everything in once and the Smart Finish tech makes everything ready at the same time.

The glass walls on this air fryer make it a very fun addition to a kitchen if you're cooking anything that rises or melts as you have a front row seat to the whole process. The two containers also have the benefit of being ready to be stored straight away – they come with lids so that you can pop them straight into the fridge once your leftovers have cooled down.

The bottom of each container also has a protective heat-proof layer, which means you can serve from both containers straight onto granite, laminate, solid wood or marble surfaces without risk of damage.

Another benefit of glass air fryer containers is the total ease of cleaning. In my time testing air fryers I found that the CRISPI base fared best when popped into the dishwasher.

The colour range has caught my eye too as I'm always a big fan of appliances that aren't just a default black colour. Rose Quartz, a pastel pink, and Bone (a steely sort of grey) are also on offer if either of those will suit your existing kitchen colour scheme better. Can you see the appeal in a glass air fryer?

Habitat has unveiled its latest Morris & Co collaboration for autumn and winter, and it might be my favourite to date. For the first time, the Habitat x Morris & Co collection has expanded to include tableware and kitchen textiles - so naturally, I've rounded up my top picks.

I would be lying if I said Habitat’s frequent collaborations with Morris & Co weren’t marked on my calendar. Not only is it one of the best William Morris collections to shop right now, but the range is never influenced by home decor trends, either. It serves up timeless designs, all inspired by the works of the iconic Arts and Crafts designer.

This latest batch of tableware and kitchen textiles is heavily inspired by Morris’ experiments with indigo dye, which means a vivid indigo blue features heavily throughout the collection. These are the pieces I’d add to my kitchen.

Habitat has described the collab's expansion into kitchenware as providing collectable hosting pieces that are designed to be passed down to future generations. And I’d argue that this kitchenware certainly has the designer look of a family heirloom, but at far more affordable prices.

Most noticeably, the Habitat x Morris & Co. Inky 12 Piece Dinner Set costs £60 and includes four place settings, four dinner plates, four side plates and four bowls, which is honestly a brilliant price. It features the Loddon print, which was originally designed in 1883 and first printed using the Indigo Discharge method at Merton Abbey.

The dinner set consists of different shades of blue and white, and the bowls are a block indigo, which balances the set perfectly. It’s a great choice for special occasions and won’t break the bank.

The latest Habitat x Morris & Co collection is simply beautiful, and will still be in style in years to come. If only I had the space for all of it in my home...

Sorry Le Creuset, Lidl is dropping a huge collection of lookalikes this week for just a fraction of the price.

Long hailed as some of the best cookware available to buy, Le Creuset pots, pans and crockery are a regular guest on most kitchen wishlists. However, less inviting is the Le Creuset price tag, hence why affordable alternatives are always so popular.

Over the years, Lidl has dropped plenty of Le Creuset alternatives, and landing in stores on 13 September, this latest cookware is huge. Here are the highlights.

Le Creuset is synonymous with the best cast iron cookware, so I'll preface by saying that Lidl’s cast iron pots, pans and griddles will not be of the same quality. However, for those looking to sample the world of cast iron cooking, Lidl is a good starting point.

Available to shop is a range of different casserole sizes, frying pans, griddles and even a cast iron pizza pan. This cookware comes in a few colourways (though not as extensive as Le Creuset), including black, red, orange and blue.

I was also excited to spot the inclusion of the set of two mugs (£3.99), which is a dead ringer for the Le Creuset Stoneware Mug (£17, John Lewis). I find my Le Creuset mug holds the perfect amount of tea, so I’m definitely keen to pick up Lidl’s set for a fraction of the price.

The mugs are only available in black and orange as are the salt and pepper shakers, serving bowls and snack bowls. If you want designer-look tableware to impress guests at autumn dinner parties, this Lidl collection is a good one to shop.

As mentioned, Lidl’s new cookware won’t be as high quality as high-end brands, but this doesn’t mean you should turn your nose up at it. Ideal Home’s Digital Editor, Rebecca Knight, has owned her Aldi cast iron casserole for over five years and still loves it. I personally have George Home’s Burgundy Cast Iron Stockpot (£32), which not only looks great, but cooks like a dream.

As always, these Lidl special buys will only be available to shop in-store, so if you don’t have a store local to you, or your local store sells out fast, I’ve rounded up a few more alternatives you can shop online.

If you're looking to try cooking with cast iron, check out Lidl's latest kitchen range for an affordable taster.

It's no secret that many of us see our kitchens as the heart of the home, which is why we want them to reflect our personal tastes and style. That said, there are certain features that can make a kitchen look "dated" across the board.

By dated, I mean a less-than chic aesthetic that just doesn't quite land how we hoped. Kitchen trends for 2026 aside, it's ultimately up to you how you want your kitchen to look. But if it's been feeling more drab than fab lately, it could be that certain features are working against you.

With that in mind, I asked kitchen design experts to share four features making your kitchen look dated in 2026. Some of their answers might surprise you...

1. Too much coordination

There was a time when a uniform-looking kitchen was all the rage, and a heavily coordinated look formed the basis of modern kitchen ideas. But Jess Barrett, the interior designer behind Jessica Simone Designs, says that a matchy-matchy kitchen can feel quite dated in 2026.

'Glossy, handleless cabinetry, rows of identical wall units and everything finished in the same cool grey or bright white can leave a space feeling quite flat. I much prefer kitchens that feel as though they have evolved over time.'

Jess is encouraging us to embrace an ecclectic mix of materials, textures and finishes instead (like in the image above). 'Mixing painted cabinetry with natural timber, choosing aged brass or bronze hardware, and introducing a freestanding or antique piece gives the room far more depth and character,' she says.

2. Open shelving

Open shelving feels like a rite of passage when you're creating a farmhouse-style kitchen, which is still having a resurgence. But refusing to bring open shelving into a kitchen could be a smart choice this year, both in terms of practicality and design.

'Open shelving has certainly had its moment, but using it extensively in place of considered cabinetry can leave a kitchen feeling visually busy,' says Tom Howley, Creative Design Director at his namesake bespoke kitchen company. 'It also places a lot of emphasis on what is displayed, meaning the room needs to look beautifully curated at all times.'

That pressure to keep open shelving looking picture-perfect can be an unnecessary mental load, which is why many contemporary kitchens are shifting back to classic cabinetry as the main form of storage. 'It doesn't mean you need to get rid of open shelving completely,' says Tom. 'Try using it more selectively, perhaps to showcase a few favourite pieces, and balance it with generous closed storage.'

3. All neutral colour schemes

All-neutral kitchens aren't outright banned this year, but many of us want to embrace a bit more variety in our kitchen colour schemes. 'A timeless kitchen isn’t necessarily one that is completely neutral,' says Tom. 'Some of the most enduring kitchens are full of personality, bold colour, and character.'

The best colours to replace beige with in 2026 include dusty pinks and warm terracotta shades, but adding personality into your kitchen really does come down to personal preference. And if you still like a neutral kitchen, that's fine – there are subtle ways you can add colour to a kitchen without repainting, too.

4. Appliance overload

Kitchen appliances are an essential part of our culinary spaces, but having all of them on display is a recipe for clutter – a.k.a. not what most of us are aspiring to in 2026.

'Too many appliances on display can also make a kitchen feel overly driven by current technology trends,' Tom says. 'Where possible, integrate appliances into the cabinetry and be selective about what you choose to leave visible.'

John Law, Creative Director of interiors at Woodhouse & Law, agrees. 'Integrated appliances and clever appliance storage ideas help create the calm, streamlined look that is increasingly desirable in 2026,' he adds.

If your kitchen hasn't felt fresh this year, try taking the experts' advice on board. Even subtle tweaks can reinvigorate a space.

Easy ways to update your kitchen

Le Creuset's huge Factory to Table sale is back for 2026, with the event running from the 25th to the 27th of September in Harrogate.

Taking place at the Great Yorkshire Events Centre, this is your chance to snap up some of the best cookware from this beloved French brand at up to 50% off. Tickets to enter the event, priced at £10 each, are available to buy now.

And it's not just bargains you'll find at the sale either. Le Creuset is also offering collectors the chance to snap up pieces not usually sold in the UK as well as rare colour ways. Here's a closer look at exactly whats on offer.

Le Creuset's warehouse sale 2026

Le Creuset's cookware has cult classic status in the world of homeware, meaning it's rare to see pieces from the brand available for hugely discounted prices. This warehouse sale, held once a year, is the exception to that rule. So if you're in the market for a pot or pan that'll gain heirloom status in your home, this event is well worth a look in.

There's no specific detail on the 'limited-edition colours not typically available in Le Creuset UK Signature Boutiques' that will be available, but there are plenty of colours that collectors covet. That includes one of the Le Creuset colours our readers loved most in 2025 that's now discontinued – Kiwi.

Given the time of year, fans of the brand will also be excited to hear one extremely sought-after shape will also be available to buy just in time for Halloween – the brand's signature pumpkin casserole. With a design that's been duped a million times since its release, it seems the original will be available for a steal of a price at just the right time of year!

If you're still clinging onto the end of summer, the brand's infamously beautiful petal casseroles will also be discounted at the event too. A fan favourite since its release in 2024, I'd have my fingers crossed for it available in some limited edition colours if I was attending!

If you can't make it to this in person event, I've rounded up the Le Creuset shapes and styles I've tested and love best that are currently on sale so that you can snag a discount from the comfort of your home.

If you're in the mood to pick up some treasures for your kitchen to prepare for autumn then Le Creuset's big warehouse sale might just be the place for you. Is there anything on your wish list to pick up before hosting season arrives?

Around four months ago I started using the Ninja EverClad Stainless Steel 5-Piece Set. In my original full length review I noted that this pan set offers both functionality and quality. So it’s a good choice if you’re in the market for one of the best saucepan sets.

I’d already made the switch to stainless steel saucepans a while ago, but completely ditching the non-stick when it came to the best frying pan in my kitchen was daunting to me. I had to put my non-stick frying pans out of reach in the spare bedroom, to stop myself from defaulting to them.

Now, four months on, it’s safe to say those frying pans never made their way back into my kitchen and I’ve been happily cooking on stainless steel ever since. Here’s my update on what I’ve learnt using these pans (which are currently on sale at Amazon for £205, down from £231) over a longer period; the good, and the bad.

1. I’m definitely getting the hang of stainless steel frying pans

During my initial review, there were a few things that I didn’t exactly nail. One of them was frying fish to perfection. But as you can see in this photo of fried seabass fillets, I’ve perfected the art of creating a crisp skin and succulent flakey texture without any sticking.

For fish and meat, the trick is taking it out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking and thoroughly patting it dry with kitchen towel. And I’ve learnt to resist the temptation to turn the heat down too low as well.

What I would say is that for things I don’t cook frequently, like pancakes, I have to hop online for a reminder of the best stainless steel specific cooking method. Because I know that if I dive straight in without that reminder, I won’t get the best from the pans.

I also know that I’m easily distracted in the kitchen, so if I’m preheating a frying pan, I set a two minute timer. This reminds me to test for the leidenfrost effect and usually means I nail the initial pan preheat, which is key to avoiding sticking.

2. I feel reassured that non-stick coatings aren’t flaking off into my food

It is a bit more effort to cook in stainless steel frying pans, and as I said above, I have to go to extra steps like timing the preheat. But I feel like I’ve embraced the challenge and learnt a new cooking skill. And now I don’t have to scrutinise the type of non-stick coating on my pans for fear of toxic chemicals, because I no longer need non-stick pans at all.

3. My husband loves them too

Since I’m usually in the kitchen reviewing kitchen appliances, my husband doesn’t get much of a look in when it comes to cooking. So while he had used the saucepans for the odd tin of beans and soup, it’s not surprising that he shied away from the frying pans for several weeks.

However, he is the pancake cook in our house, so when we recently had a craving for crepes with banana and chocolate spread, I walked him through making them in the stainless steel frying pan.

And I was surprised when, at the end of the batch of pancakes, he declared that he actually preferred using this frying pan. He thought it cooked very evenly and using it was much easier than our old sort-of-non-stick ceramic frying pans.

3. They feel robust and hardwearing

We’ve all had the odd dodgy spatula that’s a bit melted at the end, and many of us are now realising that’s probably not ideal. I’m in the process of trying to replace most of my cooking utensils with wooden and metal ones. So naturally I love that I don’t have to stress about using metal utensils in these pans.

Incidentally, I also noted in the original review that the pans are pretty weighty. So it's worth saying that for me personally this hasn’t been an issue over the last four months. I think I’ve got used to the weight and simply don’t give it a second thought anymore. But that’s not to say it won’t still be an issue for some people.

4. There are some downsides

So far, I’ve managed to avoid the temptation to put them in the dishwasher and have learnt how to clean stainless steel pans properly instead. The saucepans are generally quick and easy to clean and have stayed looking pristine. But the frying pans are becoming a bit of a chore, and if you like to keep your cookware immaculate, this could be a sticking point for you.

After a few uses, I start to notice brown fatty deposits up the sides of the frying pans. These stains don’t come off with normal hot soapy water, so periodically I have to spend extra time giving them a deeper clean.

I usually use bicarbonate of soda for the deep clean, scrubbing the powder into the pan in a thick paste. It gets the job done but still requires a good amount of elbow grease. Last time, I spent 10 minutes on one pan, though arguably, I had left it a bit longer than I should.

Personally, I have a bit of a ‘cooks kitchen’ philosophy, whereby I expect the things in my kitchen to look like I use them, because I do. But if you’re fastidious about keeping your cookware like new, I think this will start to bother you quite quickly.

Four months in and I'm very pleased on the whole with how this pan set is getting on in my kitchen. Could you be persuaded to make the switch away from non-stick?

So much of our homes take inspiration from period features, particularly if you live in a period property itself and want to stay true to the era. But while coving and fireplaces are popular restoration projects, the Victorian cold pantry has been quietly forgotten.

Victorian cold pantries were traditional larders that kept food cool, and thus had particular design features in order to achieve this all year round. Many people strive to include a kitchen pantry idea in their cooking space, and this offers a new approach to the trend that is super practical, too.

Here's why you should consider creating your own.

A Victorian cold pantry differs from a regular pantry because it's specifically designed to keep things cool. Larders and pantry units are great places to store dried goods, but as temperatures rise every summer, they aren't necessarily designed with cooling in mind.

As refrigeration wasn't around in the Victorian times, they had to resort to other methods, including the cold pantry. While this differs to our modern lives, creating dark, cool areas in our kitchen will help dried goods last for longer, too.

Walk-in style pantries align well with a cold pantry design. Sectioning off part of your kitchen to have a dedicated walk-in space, even if it's small, allows you to keep kitchen cupboards less cluttered, and worktops clear.

So what exactly does a Victorian cold pantry include?

For starters, designing an effective cold pantry begins with ensuring it's situated in a cool, dark area of your home. North-facing pantries will naturally keep items cooler, which is even more important in sweltering summer months.

Open shelves were a popular feature of a Victorian cold pantry, and they help to create an open air flow towards the top of the room. Whether you opt for natural wood or a painted finish, the open feel also adds to the rustic, antique-inspired look, too.

'To recreate the charm of a Victorian pantry at home, focus on practical storage, paired with traditional materials such as natural stone worktops, often used to keep goods cold,' explains Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr.

'Open shelving is key, providing easy access to everyday essentials, while dried goods can be decanted into glass or ceramic jars,' he adds.

Decanting your dried goods into glass jars adds to the period design, and helps you track what is running out more easily.

Stone surfaces and tiled flooring are more practical design elements that are necessary in a cold pantry. Traditionally, cold slabs were located beneath a window in a Victorian pantry to keep butter and cheese cool, but as we have fridges for this purpose now, choosing cool flooring and worktop surfaces will benefit the temperature of the entire room instead.

And of course, the finishing touches are important, too. In 2026, pantries have become somewhat of a status symbol, so consider small accessories that add to the overall look of the space. This will help to make it feel like an extension of your kitchen.

'Wicker baskets are ideal for adding extra storage as well as visual texture and interest, while natural linens and soft textiles bring warmth through layering,' Al adds.

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September is the perfect time to reorganise your cooking space. These small kitchen storage ideas will help you declutter for the new season.

As summer draws to an end, our focus turns back to our homes - whether that's by making them as practical as possible or upgrading the appearance. Kitchens and utility rooms come into their own at this time of year, via cosy evenings spent cooking and muddy dog walks that end in the utility, so they deserve our full attention.

Despite the change in season, however, there's a colour trend that is reigning triumphant. Warm, earthy colour palettes have remained popular throughout 2026, and as we approach the end of the year, using these shades in utility rooms is the perfect way to embrace the trend.

Utility room ideas have to be practical, and that extends to colour choices. This colour trend is as functional as it is stylish - here's how to use it.

Utilities are a unique room. In many homes, if you're lucky enough to have space for one then they tend to work as a traditional utility, as well as acting as a boot room and laundry space. They're also often compact, so getting the design right can be a challenge.

Colour, therefore, is an important consideration. The inclination with small rooms is to choose a bright neutral colour palette that makes a room feel larger, but in a utility room, this only emphasises any scuffs and dirt. Instead, going for bolder hues is a more practical and creative solution.

'Utility rooms are often overlooked when it comes to colour, but they’re a wonderful opportunity to embrace richer, more characterful shades,' explains Tom Howley, creative design director of the bespoke kitchen brand.

'This autumn, we’re seeing a move towards warm, earthy palettes that bring depth and warmth to these hardworking spaces,' Tom continues.

In previous years, dark navy shades were popular for utilities, but trends are moving away from cool-tone colours and towards warmer tones that inspire a cosier home.

'Warm, earthy colours are becoming increasingly popular in utility rooms, helping to create a space that feels welcoming rather than purely practical,' explains Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr.

'Shades inspired by nature, from soft creams and warm neutrals to earthy greens and muted terracotta, work particularly well alongside natural materials such as wood and stone,' he adds.

The benefit of this trend is that it encompasses a variety of colours, so you can find one that matches the rest of your interiors. While creating a sense of cohesion between your kitchen and utility is key, the smaller utility space presents the perfect opportunity to go bold and try something new.

'Dark greens work particularly well in a utility room, creating a sense of connection with nature while feeling timeless and sophisticated. Paired with warm wood hues, they can soften the practical nature of the space and give it a more considered, inviting feel,' says Tom Howley.

'For those looking to introduce a little more warmth, rusty reds and rich chocolate browns are excellent choices, adding a sense of cosiness without feeling overly seasonal.'

The key to using these natural colours is to style them with other design features and accessories that are more rustic. Keep the palette earthy by avoiding white stone worktops and instead opt for natural wood tones, then pull this through to open shelving and decorative objects.

'Olives and earthy greens give a natural sense of calm, while coffee tones add a little more richness and maturity. We'd recommend balancing with lighter walls, which gives you the warmth and character in the cabinetry without losing the clean, fresh feeling a utility still needs,' Ntola Obazee, brand director of Kutchenhaus adds.

Shop the trend

No matter your taste, these are 3 colour trends that will offer serious staying power so you can be sure your money goes further.

September has rolled around once more, and with that comes the renewal of routine. Whether your household is back to school or you simply have that September itch that never really disappears, tweaking your kitchen pantry ideas will help mornings to run smoothly.

A morning pantry is our favourite way to ensure that the morning routine is as argument-free and fuss-free as possible. It takes a regular pantry area and turns it into a zone that is designed for sacred morning rituals, whether yours involves tea and toast or coffee and cereal.

If you're designing a pantry from scratch, now is the perfect time to think about all of the details that will make it work for your morning routine. But if you're looking for smaller tweaks to add retrospectively, there will be something in here for you, too.

1. Decant essentials

This small tweak makes a huge difference to how your pantry functions. While we recommend decanting dried goods in your kitchen cupboards anyway, doing so in a pantry dedicated to your morning routine makes for a clutter-free experience that starts your day off on the right foot.

Decanting cereal, coffee and tea into clear containers means that you can easily keep track of when stocks are running low. This is key to maintaining a household when life gets busy, and prevents anyone from putting an empty cereal box back into the pantry.

It also makes it much easier for children to help themselves. Cereal containers with smaller openings or a dispenser will prevent too many spillages from occurring.

2. Create an appliance station

This morning pantry feature requires a bit more forward planning, but when done well, changes the game completely. An appliance garage layout turns your pantry into a dedicated spot for housing a kettle, toaster and coffee machine, so you can shut the doors on mess once the morning routine is over.

When you come back from the school run, you can close off the chaos of the morning and enjoy clean, clutter-free worktops in the rest of your kitchen.

'Practicality is just as important as aesthetics, so make sure there’s sufficient worktop space and easy access to power points,' recommends Tom Howley, the bespoke kitchen company’s creative design cirector. Map out the layout before you begin the build to ensure the plug sockets are in the right place, and that there's enough height for your appliances.

3. Think about layout and doors

It's not just the interior of the pantry that needs to be considered, it's the overall cupboard, too. Opting for double doors is a practical design decision as it allows the pantry to operate as a focal point, and means you can easily access the entire space. Pocket doors, however, are also a handy choice for those with a small kitchen.

'A pocket door or concealed section can hide coffee machines, toasters and other appliances when they’re not in use, while dedicated internal storage keeps breakfast essentials easy to reach,' adds Ntola Obazee, brand director of Kutchenhaus.

'Think about the layout of the pantry, keeping everything you reach for within easy access - from the coffee machine for that first cup of the day to open shelving with enough height for cereals, dry food and everyday essentials,' she adds.

4. Don't forget lighting

It won't be long until mornings get much darker, so make sure you prep for the change in seasons by adding soft kitchen lighting ideas to your morning pantry.

Integrated lighting on shelving and motion-sensored task lighting will provide illumination where you need it the most, and you won't even need to turn the big light on.

For added style, rechargeable lamps are perfect for a pantry area, and you can move them around the room as the day continues.

September is the perfect time to reorganise your cooking space. These small kitchen storage ideas will help you declutter for the new season.

Making the switch to glass food containers from plastic ones has yielded so many benefits for my kitchen. Not only can I now avoid reheating my food in plastic containers, but my clean-up routine is miles easier. I never have to suffer those tomato stains that just won't shift anymore.

I've written in detail about why my preference for glass over plastic when it comes to food prep and while my go-to choice is from the pricier Black + Blum, there are plenty of places with more affordable options if you want to make the switch too.

Here's a round-up of all of the places I've shopped excellent glass food containers and why I'd recommend each for picking up non-toxic, easier to clean food prep options.

1. Black + Blum

This London-based brand, which has been making waves on the food-influencer side of Instagram, not only prioritises clever designs but delivers on quality big time. I've tried the stainless steel food prep set from Black + Blum as well as the brand's new glass Stack + Nest set (from £27.95). Together, they make the perfect food prep combination.

The glass set is perfect for meal prep that you'll keep at home, like lunches or freezer fodder while the super lightweight stainless steel version could not be better for throwing into my work bag for the office. It's been the envy of the Ideal Home lunchroom.

These containers are expensive, there's no getting around it. But the glass nesting containers fit together compactly for storage and the lids feature clever vacuum seals to keep your food fresher for far longer.

The range available from Black + Blum is also very impressive. You can pick up these containers in an array of sizes – but the best for everyday food prep is likely going to be the 1 litre for most people. Pricey, but worth every penny in my book.

2. IKEA

What area of the home doesn't IKEA have you covered for? It can certainly be relied on for affordable food containers if you need them, including a well-rated glass range. At £4 per glass container, the 365+ range is one of the brand's bestselling as far as the kitchen is concerned.

With over 4000 reviews to its name awarding it a 4.7 star rating overall, this excellent value container is popular for good reason. And as with Black + Blum's version, it's oven-safe and freezer-safe, which is great for those who like to prepare all of their meals at the beginning of a week.

It is heavier than the more premium Black + Blum option though – weighing in around 680 grams without food in. That can make quite a difference to your lunch bag day to day.

Another benefit of IKEA's 365+ system is that it's part of a wider interchangeable system, which means you can pick up lids that fit various containers for cheap. If you want to totally shun plastic, the bamboo lid versions will be your best bet.

3. ZWILLING

If food longevity is your main concern as you come to upgrade your food storage then Zwilling's Fresh & Save range is well worth a look in. While Black + Blum's range has an excellent and simple to use vacuum button, Zwilling's is a lot more involved – it removes air out of the containers using a pump.

This system has its pros and cons. It's very effective at making your fresh or dry food last far longer but it does require a lot more work to achieve that end goal than simply pressing down on a seal. You need to keep the vacuum pump close to hand and charged to use it effectively.

There's a lot to love about the sheer breadth of the range if you do decide to invest in the vacuum pump. The glass food containers are a standout, but you can also pair it with stainless steel food prep bowls, clever silicone food bags and lunchboxes too.

I rated this system when I tried it but it was just a little too fiddly for me to hang onto in my small kitchen. If you have more space for the accessories needed and want to make a long-term investment, it's a great pick.

4. Amazon

If you have an Amazon Prime membership already, you're probably looking to save on the postage costs that buying glass food containers online might create. Turns out, it's a great place to shop for this kitchen essential too.

As well as a host of lesser-known names, there are plenty of brands you will recognise on Amazon in this particular area. One of those is Pyrex, with this set (for £23.02) which I've tried in my own kitchen. It's a bargain price for a set that contains 4 separate glass dishes, the biggest of which can hold 4 litres of food.

Another style that works very well for breakfast oats and fruit is this round shape (£15.89 for 4 via Amazon). And for added style points on your lunchbreak, I love these fluted ones with different coloured lids (£15.99 via Amazon).

For the sheer amount of choice on offer, Amazon's selection is well worth checking out. Just make sure to check the reviews thoroughly before you make a commitment.

Whichever brand you end up deciding on, I can assure you that making the switch to glass is well worth the effort. At the very least, there'll be no more tomato stained plastic containers cluttering up your cupboards.

It can't just be me who thinks that your chosen crockery makes so much difference to how your food tastes. For me, every dinner not eaten out of a plate bowl (also known as a pasta bowl or even a blate, in some circles) is an opportunity missed.

By definition, these dishes have wide, flat bottom surfaces combined with raised curved edges. It makes them deliciously suited to saucier dishes – noodles, pasta and bakes – as well as suitable for foods that need to be cut on a level surface.

Plate bowls are a kitchen trend with serious staying power, with all of the most fashionable homeware brands buying into this viral hybrid product. From my favourite at-home pick from Our Place (of Always Pan fame) to my dream kitchen pick from Fable Home, these are the pasta bowls that are on my radar for 2026 and beyond. I promise they'll be a hit with the whole family.

Investing in a full tableware set vs collecting individual pieces is a long-discussed topic here at Ideal Home, which is why I've included single bowls alongside larger sets as well as ultra-affordable picks nestled next to statement buys. All that's left to do now is decide what your first pasta bowl-appropriate meal will be...

Olivia Attwod has revealed she ditched her air fryer and microwave in favour of the new Ninja CRISPi Microwave, Air Fryer & Oven (£359.99).

Sitting down with Olivia to discuss all things at home, she explained to me that Ninja’s latest appliance had meant she could save space and reduce clutter in her kitchen. And honestly, small kitchen dwellers may want to pay attention as I think she’s onto something.

While the best air fryers and microwaves have long been an essential part of any modern kitchen, an excess of appliances doesn’t always work in small or minimal spaces. Offering multiple functions, Ninja’s new microwave plans to solve this problem.

Chatting to Olivia about her recent partnership with SharkNinja, as well as things relating to her own interior style, she explained to me she preferred her home to be tidy, organised and neutral. A calming space.

‘I feel like a microwave is something that most people have in their home, but a lot of people honestly have had the same microwave for way longer than they should have. It's probably not performing as well as it should have. It’s probably quite unsightly,’ she explained.

‘And the second thing most people have now is an air fryer. So the Ninja Crispy Microwave basically combines the two, and I love clear surfaces. Like I like I'm a no clutter girl. So I think when you combine two appliances, it looks sleek. You've then created more space for yourself on your countertops. It's just a no-brainer.’

If, like Olivia, you’re someone who doesn’t like clutter, opting for a three-in-one microwave will help make room and save space in your kitchen. I personally have a tiny kitchen, and thus far I’ve opted for a Ninja Food Air Fryer (£159.99 at Argos) instead of a microwave. But I have to say I’m considering a swap after this latest launch.

That said, essentially £360 is a lot of money to drop on a kitchen appliance (especially if your current appliances don’t need replacing). Luckily, if you’re not looking to upgrade, there are plenty of appliance storage ideas to help reduce clutter, such as opting for deep drawers, or even using appliance covers if yours look unsightly in your kitchen.

The Ninja CRISPI Microwave, Air Fryer and Oven is currently being tested by Ideal Home’s trusted and expert review, so we’ll be able to tell you if it’s Ideal Home approved very soon. But, from a small kitchen perspective, I’m with Olivia -I can see it quickly becoming one of those things people with tidy kitchens always have.

Small kithen essentials

Olivia Attwood has partnered with SharkNinja to promote the new Ninja CRISPi Microwave which is available from today (2 September).

Kitchen pantries are one of the most desirable features to include in your cooking space. They've become somewhat of a wishlist item, creating a dedicated space for organisation while also acting as a focal point within a kitchen.

However, they can come at a cost, which is why I'm always on the hunt for affordable alternatives. I just spotted this freestanding compact pantry from Dunelm and at £499, I had to shout about it.

The classic style is reminiscent of freestanding kitchen pantry ideas from high-end brands such as Neptune, for considerably less. Here's why this would be the perfect addition to any kitchen, but particularly smaller spaces.

Built-in pantries make for a beautiful kitchen storage idea, but unless you're renovating the entire room, adding one in retrospectively is unlikely.

Luckily, freestanding furniture is trending, so there are plenty on the high street to add to your kitchen. Freestanding kitchen storage is a traditional concept that is making a comeback, providing an easy way to add useful space to your cooking space without uprooting the room.

'Freestanding kitchens are firmly back on trend as homeowners move away from one-size-fits-all fitted schemes and towards spaces that feel more personal, characterful and adaptable,' says Danielle Le Vaillant, head of photography & film, Cox & Cox. 'Islands, tables and larder cupboards can be repositioned, added to gradually or even moved from one home to another, making them a more sustainable, long-term choice.'

This Dunelm pantry really does have it all. At £499, it's an investment but still considerably more affordable than other similar freestanding pantries out there. The Shaker design makes it look premium, and would be perfect for completing a classic kitchen scheme.

It also comes in two different colours, navy and off-white, so you can decide to match it to your kitchen colour scheme or opt for a two-tone look.

The interior of this pantry is where it really shines. The inside of the door features a spice rack so you can keep all of your herbs and spices neatly organised in one space, while the larger drawers provide space for storing onions and potatoes, or packets of dry ingredients.

The open shelves will also be handy for glass jars with your daily essentials in, so you can instantly see what you're running out of without needing to keep out on a worktop.

Considering the compact width and size, there is so much space in this pantry that will free up clutter on your worktops and in your cupboards.

Shop freestanding pantries

September is the perfect time to reorganise your cooking space. These small kitchen storage ideas will help you declutter for the new season.

Ninja has a shiny new release for those looking to save on worktop space: the 3-in-1 CRISPI Microwave, Air Fryer & Oven (now available for £359.99).

It's the latest in a line of multi-hyphenate appliances which combine the two most convenient products in a kitchen: the speed of the best air fryers meeting the ease for reheating leftovers of the best microwaves.

Despite sounding great on paper, as Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor, I've so far been disappointed in the microwave/air fryer hybrids we've tried so far. Here's why I'm hoping this new iteration of the best Ninja air fryers is going to be the exception to the rule.

If you own a Ninja air fryer already, you'll know that this is the brand to go for if you want to maximise cooking power. With temperatures up to 240°C, that certainly looks like an advantage that will carry over with this clever combination buy.

Though this is advertised as a 3-in-1 (air fryer, microwave, oven) there are actually a whopping 13 functions available on the interface of the appliance. Eight of those are for microwaving to your hearts content, and 5 of them will be very familiar to those who love their existing Ninja air fryer.

Those five settings are: Air Fry, Max Crisp, Air Roast, Air Bake and Air Broil (which is the American term for grill). I own the Ninja Double Stack and the high heat and power of the Max Crisp setting means it's never out of use in my household.

Using the microwave and air fryer elements separately is one thing, but the setting that has me most intrigued is Fusion Crisp. This button allows you to whip up 'fast meals with a crisp finish'.

Once pressed, your device will begin by microwaving your food and then move onto auto finishing with air frying. That should, in theory, allow you to 'go from frozen to crispy in minutes'. If it works well, this should make this microwave air fryer the most time-efficient buy in your kitchen.

Another winning feature of the original Ninja Crispi is present within this new version too: the introduction of glassware to help with efficient meal prep. With a 5.2 litre capacity and a matching lid, it's perfect for saving on washing up. Capacity-wise, it can fit a 3kg chicken, according to Ninja, making enough food for up to eight people at a time.

Simply cook in it within the Crispi and then pop any leftovers straight into the fridge when you're finished. And though it doesn't come as standard, it looks as if you'll also be able to separately invest in a steamer lid too – perfect for veggies, rice, dumplings and more.

Though it was released today (the 2nd of September), Ninja will always send their products ahead of time to reviewers. At the time of writing, this 3-in-1 has already gleaned a 4.7 star rating from 160 user reviews, which is a promising sign.

Our review of this innovative new Ninja is currently in the works so that we can let you know whether it's Ideal Home approved for your home. Could you see this type of appliance working in your kitchen?

The Ninja Crushboss System is an upgrade on the Ninja 3-in-1 Food Processor with Auto IQ which is already well liked for its multi-functional capabilities, not to mention it’s long-standing residency on our list of the best food processors.

At £239.99 the CrushBoss is only £40 more expensive than the previous model. It comes with similar accessories, but the menu of functions includes more smart capabilities, more blending speeds, and a more sophisticated user interface.

I was lucky enough to get my hands on it just before it launched, so I used it in my home kitchen to see whether this combination appliance really can save you space and money by combining three food and drink prep machines in one.

In a nutshell

The Ninja CrushBoss System is a multi-functional, space saving appliance that works as a blender, food processor, and cup blender. At £239.99 it’s a great value option compared to buying all three appliances individually, what’s more, it’ll free up valuable storage space too.

Clever detection technology means it always knows which accessory you’re using, and offers the appropriate presets on the menu. Furthermore, the SmoothSense mode takes the thinking out of blending smoothies, soups, and other lump-free blends.

I found it really easy and intuitive to navigate through the menus using the big wheel on the front. And I love the safety feature that means it won’t operate unless the accessories are locked in position, and the lids are also locked in place.

In use it was fast and efficient, it excelled at virtually every task I threw at it and it’s quickly becoming a real workhorse in my kitchen. The accessories are all top-rack dishwasher safe, but the larger jugs and cup didn't fit on the top rack of my dishwasher, so be prepared to hand wash these larger parts.

Who tested the Ninja CrushBoss?

Unboxing and first impressions

True to form for most Ninja appliances, the CrushBoss System came well protected in completely recyclable cardboard and paper packaging, so there are no unwanted trips to the dump with a load of polystyrene.

The motor base is the size of a typical blender base and it has four suction cup feet that instantly grab and secure it to my worktop. The main blender jug is a great size and the lid has a pouring spout so that you can pour out liquids without having to remove it altogether.

The stacked blade for the blender has no less than six blades at different heights, so it really looks like it’s been built for the job of serious blending. By holding the top, the blade can be removed from the jug for easier cleaning of both the jug and the blade.

I really like the look of the tumbler cup and can imagine taking it out and about when I want a smoothie on the go, or a protein shake in my gym bag. It’s got a large handle and a secure flip top lid.

The tumbler cup has its own blade assembly, which is designed to work efficiently with the shape of the cup. And the smartly designed large straw has a clever rubbery bit at the bottom, allowing you to push it down when you want to close the lid.

The last main accessory is the food processor bowl and lid. The lid has a large 13cm feedchute, but the double pushers mean there’s also a smaller feed chute if you leave one in place.

Unlike some complicated food processors I’ve come across, this lid clicks seamlessly into place and the bowl clicks intuitively onto the motor base. You can choose between the four blade stacked chopping blade or the plastic equivalent that’s for dough.

The multiblade disc houses the interchangeable grating and slicing discs. You get one grating, one slicing, and one crinkle cut disc. But others are also listed in the instruction manual so may be available to purchase separately.

The base detects which accessory you’re using and then offers the relevant presets on the menu. There’s an on/off button as well as a pulse button. All other presets and processing speeds are accessed via the big wheel on the front.

The centre of the wheel is the screen and you press this to select a programme and start blending. It then displays a countdown timer or the speed. There are between 3-5 presets depending on which accessory you’re using, as well as smart sensor programmes, and manual speed selection. So I’m pretty sure there are enough options to cover most uses.

What is it like to use?

Tumbler cup

For single serve smoothie style drinks, you can blend everything in this cup. I made a banana chocolate smoothie by adding soya milk, ground flaxseed, chia seeds, peanut butter, cacao powder, frozen banana slices, and ice cubes.

A card that came in the tumbler gives advice on the order you should add different ingredients in. Once in position on the base, I selected the SmoothSense automatic programme.

It spent a few seconds sensing the ingredients before going into the Power Blend mode. All-in-all the process was completed in 52 seconds. The drink was beautifully smooth, all the powders had blended in well, and the frozen banana and ice had been completely pulverised. It was pleasant to drink using the straw.

My sound meter recorded 90dB during the blending process, which is loud, but most blenders are. And it’s only for a short burst.

The process was similar when I made a fruit smoothie with fruit juice, frozen berries and yogurt. The ingredients were turned into a delicious smoothie in around 50 seconds, impressive given the size of some of the frozen strawberries.

There were some tiny seeds in the smoothie, giving it a somewhat gritty texture, but rarely have I made a berry smoothie in a blender that’s capable of completely obliterating these tiny seeds.

The final smoothie I tried was a green kiwi and spinach smoothie containing two kiwis, a lump of frozen spinach, some frozen banana slices, a spoon of chia seeds, soya milk, and yogurt.

Once again, it was pulverised to a lump free smoothie in just over 50 seconds when using the SmoothSense auto programme. I really enjoy drinking out of this tumbler cup, both using the straw and drinking straight from the lid. The large handle is also super comfortable to hold.

Food processor bowl

It just so happened that I was planning a pizza night the day after this appliance showed up on my doorstep, so as soon as it was unboxed, I put it to work making the dough.

I added all of my pizza dough ingredients to the bowl, with the dough blade in position. Then I selected the dough programme on the menu. It blended the ingredients for 30 seconds and successfully combined them into a smooth dough.

I had hoped it might knead the mixture for a while, so after the initial dough programme, I went into the manual speeds and switched on the low speed setting. I let it run for one minute, but turned it off and completed the kneading by hand. It was starting to shake a bit as it kneaded the dough. Luckily the suction cups on the base keep it firmly rooted to the worktop, nevertheless, I didn’t want to damage it.

Homemade slaw is one of my summer staples and grating everything is much easier with a food processor. For my beetroot slaw, I grated a whole carrot by chopping it in half and placing the pieces side-by-side in the feed hole.

I used the shredding blade with the disc preset on the menu, and the carrot was grated in around 4 seconds. Similarly a whole peeled beetroot took around 3 seconds. Both times there was a small piece of ungrated vegetable left, but honestly it’s so fast I don’t care. And to avoid waste you can finely chop these ungrated pieces and add them in anyway.

The crinkle cut attachment is an unusual addition if you ask me, I’d rather have two different thickness slicing or grating blades, but I gave it a go nevertheless. This time I pushed half a cucumber through the feed hole. The crinkle cut slices were about 5mm in thickness and took just a few seconds.

The slicing disc is ideal for quickly prepping vegetables. It sliced up my carrot so fast I barely had a chance to press start and stop on my timer. The slices weren’t perfect, but rarely is there a circumstance when I want or need them to be 100% uniform. It was fast and easy, and that’s good enough for most slicing jobs. Though some perfectionists out there might disagree.

In contrast, the slices were very uniform when I sliced a whole kiwi. In seconds I had seven uniform 5mm thick slices of kiwi and just a few pieces of waste.

Homemade houmous is one of the things I regularly use my current food processor for, and I wanted to see how this one managed. After adding all of the ingredients, I decided to trust the SmoothSense smart programme to take care of the blitzing.

Including the sensing part of the blend, my houmous was blended to a smooth paste in 70 seconds, I was very pleased with the result. After tasting it, I added in some extra salt and spices, then used the handy pulse button to mix the seasoning in without over blending the mixture.

When tomatoes and a pepper needed roughly chopping for a recipe I used the main blade with the Chop preset. It's a speedy 12 second pulsing programme that resulted in slightly uneven pieces, but it’s okay for a rough chop for things like soup and sauces, and definitely saved me time. If you’re hoping for evenly diced vegetables though, you’ll be disappointed.

Blending jug

There’s only a couple of recipes included in the booklets that come in the box. One of them is for a chunky salsa that you make in the blender, so I gave it a try. It’s as simple as adding all the ingredients to the jug and selecting the PrepIQ Mince preset.

It’s a very speedy 11 second programme that pulses the ingredients. At the end though, I could spot a large chunk of green chilli pepper that still needed to be processed. So without even scraping down the sides, I set it going on the mince programme for a second time.

The second go did the trick and created an excellent salsa. It probably wasn’t as chunky as the recipe intended but it wasn’t pureed and all the little chunks were exactly the same size, making it look very professionally made. It tasted great too.

There isn’t a dedicated ice crush preset, so I chose the variable speeds for this job. I emptied a whole ice cube tray into the jug and started it on speed 2, which is one of the slower of the ten speeds on offer.

Unsurprisingly, ice is no match for this six bladed blender and in just five seconds, the whole lot was pulverised into a snowy dust. I poured this into a glass and added milk and espresso for a homemade frappe style drink, and it worked as a great alternative to a slushie machine.

At the time of testing, we were experiencing a heatwave and standing in the kitchen making a hot soup couldn’t be lower on my list right now. A recipe I’d saved for gazpacho, on the other hand, had been calling to me.

Once the vegetables and all ingredients were in the blender, I turned on the SmoothSense auto blend programme. It blitzed the soup for 90 seconds, turning it into a completely smooth liquid that poured nicely from the spout in the lid.

On the menu there’s a preset called Large Chop that’s only an option when using the blender. I needed to chop an onion, so I peeled and quartered it before starting up the quick eight second pulsing programme.

The size of the chopped onion was smaller than I expected and there were a few rogue bigger chunks, but if you hate chopping onions, this eight second preset will absolutely save you a job. I might just stick to manually pulsing it next time, so I can control the size of the pieces.

What's it like to clean?

While I appreciate the fact that absolutely everything except the motor base is dishwasher safe. The guidance is that it should all be cleaned on the top rack, and I don’t know about your dishwasher, but I can’t fit a full size blender jug on the top rack of my dishwasher.

It’s not just the blender jug though, neither the food processor bowl, nor the tumbler cup fit on the upper rack of my dishwasher. Furthermore, I don’t love filling the dishwasher with loads of sharp blades. So while I did occasionally put some of the parts in the dishwasher, I mostly opted to wash everything by hand.

Blender and food processor parts are always fiddly to wash, and these are no more or less fiddly and dangerous than other sharp bladed appliances. But as long as you’re careful, it’s not too much of a drama. I recommend a long handled brush as the best way to clean anything sharp, whilst keeping your fingers out of harm's way.

How does it compare to competitors?

An obvious comparison is the predecessor model, the Ninja 3-in-1 Food Processor with Auto IQ. Choosing this lower tech option will save you £40, but it’s only worth it if you don’t mind having fewer blending speeds and a more limited menu of automatic programmes.

The other alternative is that if you don’t want the food processor capabilities, you can buy the exact same appliance as a standalone blender for £154.99.

Should you buy the Ninja CrushBoss System?

In my opinion this is a great value system that performs well and offers plenty of functionality. It is a lot to store, but in comparison to having three separate appliances, it’s a really great space saving solution. So, the key thing to think about is whether you really do want or need all three appliances in one bundle.

In testing, I was impressed with the performance across the board. If I’m nitpicking, the only thing I could really fault it on, was that it didn’t always chop things into even sized pieces. And it’s a stretch to say that everything is dishwasher safe, when it’s unlikely to fit on the top rack of most people's dishwashers. But, if you can get over these small hurdles, it’s a great all-rounder.

Tiled flooring is one of the most obvious choices for a kitchen, but it can come with some downsides. It's highly durable, but can be a cold kitchen flooring idea that isn't ideal when the winter months come rolling in.

Whether it's the risk of dropping and breaking items on tiled flooring or the fact that tiled flooring can make a kitchen feel cold and echoey, finding alternatives is key.

Approved by kitchen flooring experts, these 3 flooring alternatives provide a more practical and affordable approach, without forgetting style.

1. Terrazzo

Kitchen flooring is a fantastic opportunity to show some personality. It's a large surface area that has the potential to make a big impact, if chosen well.

'Terrazzo is a great halfway house for anyone who wants more character underfoot but does not necessarily want a traditional patterned tile. The flecks do the work for you,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

Not only is terrazzo a sure-fire way to inject colour and pattern into a space, but it's also practical for everyday cleaning by reducing grout lines.

'And go bigger on tile format if you can. Fewer grout joints allow the terrazzo effect to spread across the floor much more naturally. I would keep the grout fairly close to the base colour too. The terrazzo should be the thing you notice, not a grid of grout lines,' Grazzie adds.

2. LVT

If you're renovating a larger kitchen, tiled flooring can become expensive quickly. This is why it's worth turning to budget-friendly solutions like luxury vinyl tiles instead.

'If you love the look of a tiled kitchen floor but fancy something a little softer underfoot, there’s several alternatives to pick from. Luxury vinyl tiles, or LVT as they’re also known, are one such option as they’re water resistant, hardwearing and easy to look after, which is ideal in a room where spills, moisture and food mess are inevitable,' says Harriet Goodacre, style and interiors consultant at Topps Tiles.

'They can also feel warmer and softer underfoot than tiles, and many can be used with underfloor heating too, creating a cosy feel. Plus, you don’t have to compromise on style as LVT comes in a range of realistic styles such as patterned, wood, stone and terrazzo effects, allowing you to create the aesthetic and flooring you want.'

3. Natural stone

Natural stone flooring has previously been seen as a more traditional flooring choice, but it still works really well in high-traffic homes and for country interiors.

'Natural stone is one of my favourite ways to make a kitchen floor feel less ‘tiled’. With limestone in particular, you are not looking at a repeated print or a surface designed to be identical from one piece to the next,' Grazzie Wilson explains.

There is a practical component to consider, though. Grazzie says, 'Natural stone needs to be sealed correctly, and in a kitchen I would always make sure you understand the maintenance before it goes down rather than after the first glass of red wine is knocked over.'

Kitchen flooring is a big design decision, but the smaller decorating choices are important too. These wall lights from Next are what I'm hitting buy on ready for the season ahead.

As August draws to a close, all I am thinking about is how to make my home cosier for the darker evenings ahead. I know I shouldn't be wishing summer away, but September always triggers that 'back to school' feeling, and as a result, I'm eager to make some tweaks around my home ahead of the new season.

Lighting is the biggest design feature that really comes into its own when autumn rolls around, and this wall light set from Next particularly caught my eye.

I recently discovered Next's 'The Set' range and it is one of the best value homeware launches I've seen in a long time. The home accessories, such as lighting, bedding and rugs, come in affordable sets, making trend-led updates more budget-friendly. Here's why I'm shopping this chic kitchen lighting idea.

It's no secret that wall lights have boomed in popularity in the last year or so. What was once seen as a more traditional lighting choice has now expanded into so many different trendy styles, offering a practical way to add character and illumination to your home.

Kitchens are one room where wall lights are especially useful. On an evening, particularly in the winter, turning the overhead light on can make your home feel stark and uninviting, so layering lots of different lighting options will provide ambience as well as useful illumination for worktops.

Next's 'The Set' range is a gamechanger for achieving a stylish home without overspending. Let's face it, you rarely need just one light, so their handy collection that comes in pairs for the price of one light elsewhere saves you time and money while decorating.

I have long been a fan of brass wall lights. They add a subtle antique touch to a kitchen, and this set from Next have had a modern update with the matching brass shade - it's also much more practical for cooking spaces where cooking smells can embed into fabric shades.

The piece de resistance of these wall lights is that they're rechargeable. I live in a rented home so wiring wall lights in isn't going to happen, but if you're adding them in retrospectively even to a home you own, calling in an electrician is an added expense.

Instead, you can simply screw these into the wall just before the evenings start to get darker and your kitchen will have the perfect ambience all winter.

Shop more rechargeable wall lights

While getting the look and feel of your kitchen right is essential, so are the practical elements. These small kitchen storage ideas are perfect for decluttering for the new season.

In 2026, there has been a particular kitchen flooring idea reigning supreme. Terracotta flooring is the rustic, country-inspired flooring choice that seems to be cropping up in the most stylish of cooking spaces, and we can't get enough of how it looks.

However, it's not known for being the most practical of flooring choices. Despite being commonly found in countryside homes, the porous nature of terracotta means it can be high maintenance.

But there's no denying that it can be a classic kitchen flooring choice, and the warm tone is perfectly on trend. So if you're looking for an alternative to terracotta that gives you the same look with a little bit more practicality, here's what to choose.

'Terracotta is a great way to bring warmth, texture and an earthy feel into the home, but you don’t need to use traditional terracotta tiles to achieve the look,' explains Alex Heslop, trend expert at Flooring Superstore.

While terracotta was once seen as a more dated flooring choice, with the rise in herringbone and chevron lay patterns, it's having a resurgence.

Even with a simple subway-tile lay pattern, the pull of terracotta is the warm tone which acts as a guaranteed route into making a kitchen feel cosy and inviting. Flooring choice makes a huge impact on the overall room, and terracotta tiles work particularly well at bridging the gap between classic and trendy.

However, there are a few downsides to opting for terracotta. Firstly, it can sit on the pricy side, so using in a large room will increase your costs. It's also extremely porous, so without proper maintenance and care it will absorb moisture, leading to permanent stains.

'Terracotta is one of those looks that can become expensive quite quickly if you go down the route of genuine handmade clay, but the porcelain reproductions available now are incredibly good. You can get all of that warmth, variation and slightly weathered farmhouse character without necessarily paying for the real thing,' says Lesley Taylor, interior designer and founder at Baked Tile.

Alex adds, 'Choosing a terracotta-inspired porcelain tile is a more budget-friendly option, while also offering the durability and practicality needed in busy spaces.'

The cost saving of opting for porcelain is immense. 'Depending on the format you choose, a good terracotta-effect porcelain can be around a quarter to a third less expensive than genuine terracotta on the cost of the tiles alone,' Lesley explains.

While the financial and practical advantages to choosing terracotta-effect porcelain tiles makes it a no-brainer, there are things to be aware of when selecting your kitchen flooring.

'The key is to look for warm earthy tones, a matt finish and subtle texture to recreate the character of real terracotta,' Alex explains. A shiny tile will look unrealistic, so look for natural, imperfect textures.

'The important thing is not to shop by colour alone. Terracotta should never look like one flat shade of orange. What gives an old clay floor its character is the movement between baked clay, rust, ochre and softer faded tones,' Lesley adds.

While porcelain is a practical and more affordable compromise, this doesn't mean you're compromising on appearance. Being picky with tonal variation and texture will give you an almost identical look for less.

Shop porcelain terracotta tiles

Wanting to finalise your kitchen renovation project? These kitchen colours that look good with terracotta flooring will give you plenty of inspiration.

Lakeland's new in section currently has a whole host of products waiting to help you get organised for September – but my favourites have to be the brand's new selection of microwaveable stainless steel lunchboxes, available from £12.99.

I recently made the switch from my naff old plastic food containers to lightweight stainless steel ones from Black + Blum. They've made meal prepping so much easier and made my workbag much lighter to lug around.

These Lakeland boxes are very much in the same vein and the perfect accompaniment to one of the best saucepan sets. Even the smaller size has an impressive 1 litre capacity, and each one is kitted out with a leakproof, airtight silicone seal. That means your leftovers should stay fresher for longer, too.

I know what you're thinking, putting metal in a microwave is kitchen no no number one. But microwaveable stainless steel containers are engineered to be safe for popping straight into the most timesaving appliance in your arsenal with certain features that prevent sparking.

Yep, the smooth, rounded corners of these containers aren't just for aesthetic reasons, they also mean an electric charge can't build up. And if you're thinking that over £10 for one food container is very steep that's because you're not just paying for any old standard of metal but for thick, high grade stainless steel instead.

If you've ever seen what happens to foil mistakenly put into a microwave then you'll know that thin metals are not compatible with reheating leftovers but this thicker type of stainless steel definitely is.

The leakproof nature of these containers is another huge draw if you want to use them as lunchboxes. The silicone seal around the exterior will also be a huge help for keeping your food airtight inside, so your leftovers should last for longer.

The ability to pop these containers into the freezer is another bonus as well as the fact they are totally dishwasher safe. The clear lids will help if you're a keen meal prepper too, so you can easily see what you're grabbing to take for your lunch for that day.

I switched to using stainless steel food containers in April and I've noticed so many benefits so far. Not only are my new lunchboxes always getting compliments in the office but the lightweight feel of them mean I don't have to dread packing my lunchbox into my bag everyday.

The 1 litre Lakeland container weighs just 360 grams (without food) which is a huge difference to compared to glass alternatives which can usually weigh around 600 grams in the same scenario.

There's no faff with these containers with having to switch out the contents to reheat, freeze or even pop in the air fryer either – a huge timesaver if you like to prep your meals ahead.

I think these containers are about to be a huge hit with Lakeland's savvy customers, especially those who like to be ahead of the curve with their cookware choices. Could you be swayed to give stainless steel a try?

Lakeland is expanding its bestselling Only Pan into an entire range, with the brand's trendy, colourful cookware offering now covering all-in-one pots and frying pans.

Available now from Lakeland, you can snap up the most affordable pick, the Only Pan Fry Pan, in a spread of gorgeous pastel colours for just £34.99. It's joined by the Only Pot (which looks perfect for batchcooking) for £59.99 in an array of colours too.

If you're looking for one of the best frying pans on a budget, then our expert reviewer has only had good things to say about this cookware collection so far – her almost perfect marks for the Only Pan in her review is testament to that. Here's a closer look at this extended cookware line and why its been such a hit with shoppers so far.

This colourful collection from Lakeland started with the sellout Only Pan, which our expert reviewer and home economist Helen McCue called 'a good non-stick pan without the harmful non-stick coatings' after her thorough review.

You wouldn't be the first to think it bears a striking similarity to the Instagram-ubiquitous Always Pan by Our Place, but it's not the only recent buy from Lakeland that has that lookalike factor.

Then brand's next take on an Our Place bestseller – which just happens to be my favourite pan ever after testing dozens, the Titanium Pan Pro – the Lakeland 10-in-1 Tri-Ply Only Pan Pro came next.

Helen was thoroughly impressed by this £85 offering in her recent four and a half star review. The fact you can use metal utensils with it will be a gamechanger for a lot of people and Helen found it was very resilient during testing.

Now, Lakeland is adding a few different size variations to this collection. While this may slightly take away from the claim that the original is the only pan you'll ever need, it does add a new dimension for those who want to batch cook.

The heavy duty option, the Only Pot, has an excellent 4.5 litre capacity which is more than enough for family-sized meals. It can be used on your hob as well as in your oven for browning dishes and slow cooking, too.

The Only Fry Pan, on the other hand, has a low profile that's tailor-made for everyday frying jobs. If you don't want to wrestle a heavier pan out of your cupboard for your morning omelette, it'll make a good companion piece to your main everyday pan.

The colour range is a huge draw with these pans and I'm hoping there's more to come from Lakeland if these colourful picks are anything to go by. After all, a pastel pan is such an easy way to brighten up your existing kitchen colour scheme!

Retro is back in a big way in 2026, and our kitchens are proving to be the best place to try out the trend. Whether it's through 70s-inspired colour palettes or 90s-style floral tiles, there are so many ways to add retro appeal. But small appliances are the simplest way to add a quick vintage-inspired look.

This Dunelm kettle is the perfect example of how to get a retro kitchen scheme without overhauling the design, and without spending a fortune. For just £25, you can update the small appliance that sits on your worktop and gets used every single day - it's a small price to pay.

It also looks just like the Smeg kettle which is a favourite on the Ideal Home team. While the Smeg kettle is ranked as one of our best kettles, it comes with a higher price tag.

The Smeg kettle is famous for the retro appearance which turns a sleek small appliance into something a little bit more traditional. If you have a classic kitchen scheme, then choosing ultra contemporary appliances can often look out of place.

While this Dunelm kettle has a chic stainless steel trim, the cream colour means that it looks undoubtably traditional, so it will blend into the background when left on show.

If you prefer a softer, more classic kitchen look, then making sure the smaller details, like a kettle, align will make a huge difference to the overall space.

'I wrote last week about how retro small kitchen appliances will never go out of style. If that timeless look is something you want to achieve on a budget, then I can't think of a better pick than this Dunelm one. It's also got handy features including quick boiling and an external capacity gauge – two things that never go amiss when making a cuppa!', says Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor, Molly Cleary.

Many kettles in this price range are lacking when it comes to style. For £25, this retro kettle is a no-brainer for anyone wanting to kit out their kitchen with timeless pieces.

Alternatives

As we head into autumn, now is the perfect time to upgrade your kettle ready for plenty of cups of tea. While you're planning for the new season, these kitchen trends with staying power for 2027 might provide further inspiration.

Lavazza's new milk frother has been saving me a small fortune this summer. The price of a takeaway coffee is always a contentious topic and in London, where a latte can set you back at least £4, adding ice for an extra 50p definitely adds up.

So I've been shunning iced lattes on the go for ones made at home with the help of my bean-to-cup coffee machine (which is a godsend for saving me money year round). And with the help of this slimline milk frother, I think I've managed to make better coffees too – especially with the help of the cold milk froth setting.

Here's what I've been enjoying about this new addition to my coffee corner, which is currently on sale for half of its RRP over at Amazon for £49 down from £78.99.

Cold foam on coffee is a big deal over in the US, but less known here in the UK. In some case it's sweetened with syrup, but it mainly consists of a frothed, aerated cold milk which when combined with a shot of espresso makes for a delectable summer drink.

Most milk frothers, until recently, didn't have the capability for hot and cold frothing. That means that a standard iced latte at home just consisted of coffee and cold milk – unless you had a do-it-all automatic coffee machine like the De'Longhi Eletta Ultra with its incredible cold frothing abilities.

The cold milk foam option on Lavazza's new frother has been my favourite part of testing it altogether. Don't get me wrong, the foam it can whizz up for lattes and cappuccinos is impressive but it's the ability to create that cold foam effect that I've been living for this summer.

As well as combining beautifully with a shot of espresso over ice, it has a great level of air to it that means it rises right to top of my glass creating a gradient effect. Its operation is super quiet and it's proven very easy to keep clean thus far too. All you have to do is give the whisk and the non-stick interior a thorough wash in the sink (definitely NOT the dishwasher) and leave to dry.

The slim profile of this frother means it fits neatly alongside my coffee machine, the Sage Barista Express Impress, too. As mine is an older generation Sage, it doesn't have the capability for cold milk frothing so these two together have made the perfect pairing in recent months.

The drawbacks of using this frother that I've picked up on so far is that the maximum fill line on the interior can be tricky to make out in certain lights and that it can only really froth enough milk for one coffee at a time.

Plus, as someone who is slowly trying to transition to all-white kitchen appliances, I wish there was more choice of colour. If you feel the same way, the new Philips Baristina might be a more palatable colour choice (£84.99 via Amazon).

Others who swear by a totally-clear-countertops kitchen might prefer a handheld whisk altogether. Nigella Lawson swears by a £10 handheld version from Aerolatte for her morning matcha.

You can’t beat perusing a little inspo when it comes to planning a kitchen renovation, and if you’re in need of ideas, Strictly Come Dancing superstar Shirley Ballas recently unveiled her kitchen’s transformation - and it’s proof that you don’t have to rip it out and start again for a stunning transformation.

While best known for her mastery in the ballroom, Shirley’s kitchen renovation has also shown her ability to renovate a kitchen on a budget – and it’s worth looking at if you have a similar kitchen idea planned.

Instead of ripping out your kitchen and starting from scratch, Shirley’s method is far easier and more affordable. Shirley has shown that a fresh lick of paint can make a kitchen look completely different.

Posting on Instagram, Shirley told followers that she felt it was time to give her home a refresh, and this of course, included her kitchen. Using B&M Specialist Decorators to help with the transformation, Shirley had her kitchen cabinets repainted a fresh and modern shade of white. Paired with her bright kitchen appliances, the end result made for an excellent white kitchen idea.

‘I’m a huge fan of a kitchen that gets a second chance rather than automatically ending up in a skip! If the layout works and the cabinets are fundamentally sound, repainting can completely change the look and feel of a kitchen without the eye-watering cost of replacing everything. Shirley’s is a great example of how a fresh colour can make an existing kitchen feel completely new,’ commented Georgina Burnett, celebrity interior designer, TV presenter and ambassador for DIY Toolshare.

‘The biggest benefit is that you’re changing the look without paying for an entirely new kitchen. Replacing cabinets, worktops and appliances can quickly run into thousands, whereas paint can give you a dramatic transformation for a fraction of the cost. It’s also a much more sustainable approach because you’re keeping perfectly usable cabinetry out of landfill. Sometimes the best kitchen makeover is simply the one you already own! ‘

The main benefit of painting your kitchen cabinets is that you can achieve that renovation transformation at a fraction of the cost. But before you grab the paintbrush, bear in mind that painting cabinets requires a fair amount of prep and may be a job better left to the professionals.

‘Painting a bedroom wall is quite forgiving, but cupboards are touched, wiped and knocked constantly, so preparation is more important,’ says Gareth Davies, design director at Classic Interiors. 'A professional should know how to clean and degrease the doors properly, sand or prime the existing finish and use a paint that'll cope with everyday wear. You can absolutely do it yourself if you're confident and patient, but I wouldn't treat it as a quick weekend paint job. Most of the work is actually what happens before the colour goes on.'

Is Shirley's kitchen a good example?

In short, yes. Shirley has breathed new life into her space using a simple yet effective method. If you were ever unsure of the power of paint, let this be a shining example of how to do it well.

‘I think it demonstrates an important point: a kitchen doesn’t have to be ripped out to feel like a completely different space. Before reaching for the sledgehammer, I’d always ask myself what I actually dislike about the room. If it’s the colour, handles, splashback or worktops rather than the layout, there’s enormous potential for a cosmetic makeover. Change those elements and you can get the joy of a ‘new’ kitchen without the new-kitchen price tag,’ says Georgina.

Gareth agrees, pointing out that if your kitchen is in good shape, there really isn't much reason to rip it out anyway.

‘If you've got a kitchen with decent cabinetry and a layout you already like, look at what can be changed cosmetically before assuming you need to spend thousands on a new one. Paint can alter the entire personality of the room while leaving the expensive parts exactly where they are,’ he says.

‘I'd still be realistic about what paint can fix, though. If cupboards are swollen, badly damaged or the layout drives you mad every day, repainting is really just disguising a bigger problem. But if the bones are good and you're simply bored of the finish, Shirley's approach is exactly the sort of renovation I'd recommend considering first.’

Other affordable kitchen upgrades

When considering a kitchen renovation, it's easy to get carried away and rip it out. But if you've got a functional space, take a leaf out of Shirley's book and work with what you already have.

A dedicated coffee corner has been high on my kitchen wish list for years. As Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor I have the privilege of poring over pretty pictures of coffee stations every week, but I've never had the chance to curate one myself.

After moving into a new flat a few weeks ago I've finally found a space that I can sit my bean-to-cup coffee machine and all of its fixtures on. Now space isn't a problem; what I can consider to be the real challenge is actually making it look good.

Luckily, I have the Ideal Home team for inspiration, whose ideas I'm raiding as inspiration for my own coffee corner. Here's everything I'm going to buy to spruce up my space.

1. Coffee mat

The foundation of my coffee corner is a wooden unit, which is situated under built-in shelves. As the wood is prone to getting marked or stained, the first thing on my shopping list is a practical one: a coffee mat.

When I lived back with my family I bought this mat from Amazon (£12.99) to sit under my Ninja Luxe Café and it worked really well to protect my worktop from leaks. I'm switching from stripes to this checkerboard design this time around with this similar pick (£9.99 from Amazon) but the aim is the same: to keep from any stray water from causing long term damage.

My everyday coffee machine, the Sage Barista Express Impress, has an assisted tamper which saves me much complication. If you have a standard espresso machine where you have to tamp those grounds yourself, you might benefit from a tamping mat instead. ProCook's £6 version can sit on the edge of your coffee station and will help you to apply even pressure to your portafilter. It has a handy groove for your tamp, too.

2. Organised extras

Ideal Home's Editor Heather Young offers us endless inspiration with her gorgeous kitchen, including her newly-organised coffee station hidden away within her pantry.

The first thing she's employed in there is this Lazy Susan from Amazon (£17.99) which she's using to display her 'bowl of sugar, pot of teaspoons and collection of syrups' so she has everything she might need for a caffeinated treat when she opens up her pantry.

The second is her newly installed set of mini shelves, which you can find for £19.99 from Amazon, which Heather says has made everything 'much more accessible'. This organiser has a great height to it, which allows for tall jars to be stored alongside coffee beans and tea bags.

Having a dainty little sugar pot, like this one from M&S (for £6) is definitely something I'm going to be copying, as well as the Lazy Susan idea for my new pantry. It's going to make it so much easier to get my coffee essentials in the morning.

3. Curated shelving

The biggest problem I have to solve is how to style the shelves above my coffee machine. Open shelving is a divisive topic at the best of times, but my Editor Rebecca's piece on why she had to get rid of her display pantry made me realise this is definitely not a trend I can buy into.

I find styling shelves difficult enough without worrying about accumulating dust or collecting clutter by accident, so I'm aiming to keep the space above my coffee station as curated as possible.

On my wish list, inspired by a kitchen from the pages of the magazine, is a classic Roberts radio in a pastel colour (like this one from John Lewis, £150) so that I can listen to music while I potter around on the weekend as well as a glug jug (like this one from Oliver Bonas, £45) and some artwork. I've got my eye on this handpainted trio from Dunelm (£45) but I also like the idea of something personal like this gorgeous pick from Papier's new collection from Glassette (£26).

4. Matching mugs

Building a strong mug collection is key to a coffee station that gets compliments. I've started strong with the addition of Fable's espresso cups (£52), which fit so neatly on the top of my espresso machine, but I'm looking to add multiple pairs of mugs that share a similar feel.

I've loved these Night & Day mugs from Our Place (£47.99) for many a year, so it might be time to finally take the plunge. Dunelm's new-in section, particularly with these playful resin coasters (£12) is also calling my name...

With these upgrades, I'm hoping my coffee station will soon start to take shape. Do you have any non-negeotiables for your morning brew?

Whether you're a fan of 'Location, Location, Location' or you just enjoy talking house, you'll be aware of the terms 'upsizing' and 'downsizing'. Whatever the reason might be for increasing or decreasing the size of your home, it isn't always possible (or the right call) in this economy.

So if you're on the fence, 'rightsizing' might be a better option. Rather than moving, rightsizing is all about tweaking your current space, and kitchen ideas are the perfect place to try.

Kitchens are a worthy investment, and getting the design right has the ability to completely change how your home functions. It might not be that your home is too small, but rather that the heart of your home isn't functional for your family's needs.

Here's how to give rightsizing a try.

1. Think about storage

Kitchen storage ideas are essential in a well-functioning home, and updating it to suit your family's needs will rightsize your space and prevent that niggling 'we need to move' feeling.

'Before considering finishes or colour palettes, it’s important to think about how you truly use the space – from cooking and entertaining to the flow of daily life. Intelligent storage should be at the heart of any design: well-planned internal drawers, larder units, and corner solutions can dramatically improve functionality, while making full use of vertical space with tall cabinetry helps keep work surfaces clear and clutter out of sight,' recommends Tom Howley, creative design director at the eponymous kitchen company.

Tom Howley’s own research found that 38% are improving their home for long-term living and 30% already consider it their forever home, so even tweaking your internal cupboard storage will give a space a new lease of life.

2. Switch up a colour scheme

Often, a kitchen is 'fine for now', with the view of renovating it in the future. If this is the case, then a simple kitchen colour scheme refresh could be all it needs in order to prolong it's lifespan and make sure you're happy with it in the interim.

As Ideal Home's Senior Digital Editor, Jenny McFarlane explains, 'Before we renovated, we gave our old kitchen a budget-friendly refresh by repainting the cabinets and painting the tiles which instantly made the space feel more us. It took a little effort but it was absolutely worth it.'

If you have a higher budget, respraying the cabinets offers a more professional finish. However, repainting the walls or cabinets yourself will 'rightsize' your kitchen.

3. Be strategic

The fastest way to 'rightsize' your kitchen and make it a productive room in your home is to be strategic with every design feature. If you're renovating this space, then think carefully about the flow of a layout and consider how each and every cupboard will be used.

'Then when we designed our new kitchen, we made sure to build in plenty of personal touches from the start, including a dedicated charging drawer, a hidden coffee station and open shelving we can style and chance whenever we fancy,' Jenny continues.

Tom Howley adds, 'Every inch counts, so it’s important to be strategic with your layout and storage. You can maximise counter space by integrating appliances where possible, for example, building your microwave into the cabinetry. Opting for a boiling water tap will also eliminate the need for a kettle taking up worktop space.'

Whether it's a tlie choice or a storage idea, being strategic with your thinking will make sure it lasts for the long haul.

As we head into the second half of the year, now is the time to start thinking about kitchen trends for 2027 - these are the 3 design moments in 2026 that I predict will have staying power.

Timelessness versus trends is the eternal debate of those who love poring over interiors. But one area in which retro designs always win out is with small kitchen appliances. With an aesthetic borrowed from the 50s and 60s, essentially all of the best toasters and kettles on the market have rounded, pastel silhouettes that are picture perfect for kitchen counters.

Smeg is synonymous with the retro kitchen look. As well as their standard small appliances, they have an incredibly capable range of bean-to-cup coffee machines available in a gorgeous range of colours that no other brand comes close to. Here at Ideal Home we've reviewed a huge number of Smeg coffee machines. The EGF03 Espresso Machine is our top-rated choice after our review and by far the prettiest option, too.

If you're undertaking a September reset in your kitchen then these retro-style appliances might be just the ticket to give your worktops a new lease of life. I've collected a range of options in every pastel shade available.

Though the best-known brand names are pricey, getting the retro look doesn't need to break your bank. With ranges emerging from names like Dunelm and Next, you can pick up a full set for your kitchen for far less than you might imagine.

If you want to nail timelessness with your kitchen appliances, there's no better bet than the vintage look.

Martin and Shirlie Kemp have been providing some serious home inspiration as of late. From their DIY water feature that has the Ideal Home team hooked to their abundant garden that Shirlie showcases on Instagram, it's safe to say they're providing a big dose of country home inspiration.

But the inside of their home provides just as much style as their garden does. Spotted across their socials, their timeless cream kitchen perfectly slots into their country home, adding a subtle nod to trends while being in keeping with the property.

Here's why you should take inspiration from their cream kitchen ideas.

As shown above on Instagram, Martin and Shirlie Kemp's original kitchen in their property was traditional, but dark and dated. The oak cabinets were warm, but the wrong kind of warm, and more light was needed to make the space bright and inviting.

With the help of Howdens, the couple opted for the Elmbridge kitchen in porcelain - a heritage kitchen that has a high-end feel with the decorative beaded edges.

While the Shaker doors in this kitchen do a huge amount of the heavy lifting in making the cooking space feel premium, it's the neutral kitchen colour scheme that I think is particularly striking.

Classic cream kitchens, particularly with Shaker doors, can often seem a bit too traditional. However, white can look too stark when not placed in a contemporary scheme.

This warmer white shade, however, has softer undertones that make it inviting, but it doesn't show up as too yellow or orange-hued. For a timeless space like Martin and Shirlie's, this colour scheme offers longevity.

Rachel Tuckey, chief product and marketing officer at Häfele UK, explains, 'Homeowners are becoming more confident in their own taste, but most still want to avoid choices they may regret in a few years. That is why warmer neutrals, wood finishes and natural-looking materials are becoming more popular.'

As Martin and Shirlie have shown, the key to adding trend-led touches and character is through the smaller details that aren't as tricky to change as your taste evolves.

The brass pendant lights tie into the brass knob handles on the cabinets, bringing warmth into the colour scheme and tapping into an antique-inspired look.

'Handles, lighting and splashbacks can all change the feel of a kitchen, adding contrast, warmth or texture while allowing the larger elements of the room to remain more timeless. For renovators, that can be a useful way to create a kitchen with character that still feels considered for the long term,' Rachel adds.

Shop the look

Kitchen colour trends vary from neutral to bold in 2026, and going into 2027. No matter your taste, these are 3 colour trends that will offer serious staying power so you can be sure your money goes further.

Ninja's expansion of its coffee machines has reached new frontiers with the AutoBarista Pro, the brand's first try at an automatic bean-to-cup coffee machine.

I've tried both of the Ninja bean-to-cup machines released in the series so far, the Luxe Café and its Pro series upgrade. I think both of these deserve the title of one of the best coffee machines you can buy, especially in terms of value compared to brands like Sage. So my hopes were very high with this automatic version. Here's how I got on with it.

In a nutshell

I've reviewed a fair few automatic bean-to-cup machines now, but none quite like the AutoBarista Pro. That's because in both looks and operation it reminds me more of its Ninja Luxe Café sister machine than anything else, especially thanks to its milk frother, which uses the same jug mechanism.

The kicker though? At £900, this machine is almost double the price that you can often find the Luxe Café on sale for and though it's undoubtedly impressive, I'm not entirely sure its worth the price jump.

Things that did impress me were the Auto IQ program, as well as the colour screen and icons which definitely added a premium feel to the machine. After getting through the calibration process, which admittedly took a hot minute, the taste of the coffee was great.

It's just personal prefer but I would pick the milk jug design that features here over fiddly plastic-y tubes that you usually get with auto bean-to-cups. But it does mean it's a more involved coffee than with something like the De'Longhi Eletta Ultra, for example, as you have to pour over your own milk. A small thing, but different to just pressing one button and letting the machine to the rest.

The swappable bean hoppers will be a huge pull for those who like a decaf in the afternoon, hugely cutting down on fuss, and the advanced cleaning features will also please many making the switch from their espresso machine to this. As with the Luxe Café, the small drip tray that fills very quickly is pretty annoying.

Who tested this coffee machine?

Unboxing the product

This is a big hunk of a machine. It's 18cm deeper, 5cm wider and 13.2cm heavier than the Luxe Café, which is by no means small. It's stretches out in every dimension and will requite either a deep worktop without overhanging shelves or a dedicated coffee station. I had to test it on my dining table in my house, as I'm without either.

It's also very heavy, weighing 22kg. Set-up (or even just getting it off the doorstep) is not for the faint hearted so rope in reinforcements to get it in situ. As with all Ninja products it's wrapped up well in cardboard and other recyclable materials with a very smooth set-up process helped by a QR code sticker on the front of the machine.

I think the machine looks quite expensive overall but it's generally not as appealing as something like the Sage Barista Touch Impress which is fairly similar in terms of ability. The feedback reader, where you get instructed when grinding, is less of an interface and more of a rolling message banner. It doesn't feel premium compared to the kind of interface you get with a De'Longhi or similar, where the colour screens are very immersive.

The milk frothing wand is very wide, miles different from one you'd find on a standard espresso machine. The jug is large too, which is good for adding milk to more than one coffee at once.

You control the screen via a dial and buttons that correspond to the icons on screen. The buttons, like the rest of the screen, are stainless steel and a magnet for fingerprint marks. If I was buying this machine the stainless steel/black colour combo would be at the bottom of my list – the Vista Green or Oat White get my vote instead.

First impressions

The materials you get with the machine make setting up easy – even if this is your first coffee machine. The big hurdle to get over with set-up is calibrating the Grind IQ program, which uses quite a lot of beans and is pretty loud.

During this process the machine will grind your beans, weigh out a dose and tamp it before pulling your espresso shot. It will do this several times until it reaches what Ninja say is the optimum grind. Then you'll need to empty the grounds container, drip tray and refill the water as well as discard those starter shots.

From there, getting a coffee is straightforward (unless you want to change your beans, of course). The other big technical hitch to get over is swapping out the bean hoppers if you're so inclined for a decaf afternoon coffee or simply an alternative blend.

There's a simple locking system where you input the beans that works well when swapping over though the internal grinder will still hold some of the older beans so you'll have to use the 'purge' button in that scenario.

The ‘Morning Rush’ test

In accordance with how we test coffee machines, the Morning Rush test sees us make several coffees back to back to see how the machine fares. As this is an automatic, I found it a pleasingly easy process. The machine turns on relatively quickly but will only give you your coffee if the drip tray is empty enough. Otherwise the screen won't light up and allow you to progress.

But once you're set up, it's no issue to churn out a few black coffees in a row without complication. The machine has a thermoblock system which works well to keep the temperature consistent across multiple drinks.

The large jug means you can steam enough milk for two lattes at once or for 3 macchiatos if you're only looking for a splash of milk. So if there's four of you in your household and you all want a coffee before you head out for the day, many drinks in a row won't pose an issue.

User experience

This machine isn't marketed as a 'one-touch' convenience station as so many bean-to-cup offerings are, which is refreshing, as it is more involved than alternatives that integrate milk tanks into their main body.

Day-to-day when using this machine, you'll probably notice that it takes a minute to wake up and flush out – this is all part of the machine's automatic cleaning system. If something is awry (not enough water, grounds container too full) the machine won't let you make a coffee until you remedy it which is good for preventing build-up.

When making a latte, for example, you'd touch to turn on the machine and wait for it to finish its warm up processes. You'd then select latte from the light-up menu and pop your cup under the spout as well as load your milk in the jug for the frother.

There are three adjustable levels you can pop your cup on and there's plenty of space even for a carafe full of coffee if you fancy. You'd struggle to find a travel cup that wouldn't fit under there which is a bonus.

The coffee dispenses first from the left. Once that's stopped, the queued milk frothing process will begin automatically (with no need for you to prompt). The milk frothing is nice and quiet and relatively speedy too. All that's left to do after that is pour over your milk (practicing your best latte art skills).

The milk wand on the AutoBarista is a step up from the one I've used previously on the Pro series version of the Ninja Luxe Café. Called the FrothPerfect, it whisks and steams at the same time automatically. The five milk settings include extra-thick froth and cold foam which is great for having a variation of drinks available.

Once you're done with the milk jug, you push the wand back into place where it'll auto-purge.

Noise test

As I mentioned earlier, this is a pretty quiet machine. Both the dispensing of espresso and the frothing of milk measure at about 60dB in my home, which is a plus for those who value discreet appliances.

What's it like to clean?

The standard colour way for this machine is stainless steel. It's not my favourite as it marks so quickly but it's all down to personal preference. For me, any of the colours are much more appealing.

This machine inherits the same problem as the Ninja Luxe Café; the drip tray seems to need emptying at every turn. This is probably a good thing, as it's due to the auto cleaning systems doing their job, but it can feel annoying.

The big pro for cleaning with this machine is the removable brew group, which is accessible via a side door. All you need to do to maintain it is pull it out and rinse it on a semi-regular basis.

How does it compare to competitors?

This machine is so unique that its hard to find a direct comparison. The De'Longhi Rivelia is currently our top-rated bean-to-cup model and at around £699, it's quite a bit cheaper than the AutoBarista. Its compact size and sleek finish mean its likely more aesthetically friendly to most kitchens too.

Should you buy the Ninja AutoBarista Pro?

Ninja's easy-to-use charm extends to this clever automatic machine. It makes great coffee, is easy to use and has plenty of features built-in to make owning a bean-to-cup machine more manageable. It's not the prettiest option out there, though the colour ways make it slightly more bearable, and there are highlights that real coffee lovers wil rejoice at (the interchangeable bean hoppers and the assisted grinding).

For me it doesn't quite live up to the greatness of the Ninja Luxe Café and its Pro version successor, but it's a solid choice if you know you want a Ninja coffee machine that can pour a coffee without you needing to grind the beans yourself.

Kitchen bins are one of the features we look past in a cooking space. Often hidden in the corner of a cooking space or within a drawer, these practicality-first features don't get the attention they deserve.

Bins are also often uninspiring - in stainless steel or black, which doesn't always go with your scheme. So when I saw this floral kitchen bin from Next, I knew it was a unique design to shout about.

Whether you have a country kitchen or you want to add floral flair to a pared-back space, this adorable pedal bin will be the ultimate addition to your kitchen.

While bins are often overlooked, the right bin can completely alter how your everyday routine feels. Thinking about whether or not you need a pedal bin, a dual-zone style with room for recycling or a larger size will turn an annoying chore into something that blends into the background of your life.

There are practical things to consider when choosing a bin, but style is also important. A kitchen bin will sit out on show, so opting for a colour and design that goes with your cabinetry will pull the space together.

The floral design of this Next bin is truly unique, making it perfect for adding to a pastel kitchen colour scheme or a cottage environment.

Bin preferences are specific to each person, but I think we can all agree what makes a design stand out.

'I knew I had reached adulthood when I became extremely invested in my kitchen bin. It would be difficult to get me to stray from my trusty Joseph Joseph Totem Bin (£199) which is my kitchen hero thanks to its handy compartment system but if I had the country kitchen of my dreams I could definitely see a space for Next's floral version,' explains Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor, Molly Cleary.

'A pedal bin is a very hygienic option and the added decoration means you can add some interest to your usual kitchen colour scheme.'

Shop more kitchen bins

As we head into the second half of the year, now is the time to start thinking about kitchen trends for 2027 - these are the 3 design moments in 2026 that I predict will have staying power.

I've found that a Sunday well spent really does bring a week of content – especially if I spend it meal prepping with the best cookware.

Having just moved back to London, I'm slowly getting back into my groove with office life. To feel more organised, I find having lunches that are lunch-bag ready and dinners that are prepped for me when I walk back through the door are key.

I'm in a privileged position as Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances and Cookware Editor that I get to try out all of the latest and greatest kitchen gadgets to see how they fare in a real cooking environment. These are the ones I'm reliant on, all of which live in my newly organised pantry, for my batch cooking sessions every weekend.

1. Clever food containers

We all know the stress of rooting through a mismatched collection of old take-away containers, loose lids and plasticware in a kitchen cupboard. It can feel like an avalanche is raining down on you. That's why I recently undertook a serious food container audit.

I had already rid myself of flimsy plastic containers as I wanted to be more cautious of potential safety risks with microwaving plastic (as investigated by the BBC). So when I was offered a set of Black + Blum's food containers to test, I was intrigued. The selling point of this brand is its lightweight meal-prep style lunchboxes that are made of microwavable stainless steel.

These containers are made for commuters and convinced me to switch from glass containers to stainless steel. I have the Meal Prep Bowl Set in small (£44.95 for 3), and each one weighs just 245 grams before food. There's plenty of space for a lunch or dinner portion with this 650ml size, but a larger 950ml upgrade is also available.

The containers can be microwaved for two minutes at a time and are safe to go into my air fryer too. Last week I made a 'dropped the pot' lasagne in the containers and popped them into my Ninja to brown ready for lunches to great effect.

This isn't the only Black + Blum set I swear by. I've recently been testing the brand's new glass container system too and have settled on an ideal hybrid material set up.

I have five of the Stack + Nest Glass Food containers, which have the same clever airtight seal for freshness, in medium. With 900ml of space, I find they are great for full meals and prepped veg or fruit. Handily, they use the same lids as the stainless steel pots if you invest in the same shapes.

I use the lightweight stainless steel pots for work and the glass versions for dinners that stack in my fridge. When they're not in use, all of the containers nest without extending their footprint in my pantry.

2. A julienne peeler

Thanks to this never ending summer we're having I've been prepping salads more than ever. And I can't believe it took me so long to turn to this one inexpensive gadget to save me from wasted time chopping veggies into the perfect shape.

Making carrot and cucumber ribbons is probably a job I should turn to my food processor for, but most often I've been using my Zyliss Julienne Peeler (£7 from Amazon) instead.

Though you have to press fairly hard to get neat ribbons, I really like the thinness you get from using this specific peeler. Once I've got those ribbons, I like to pickle them for toppings or combine them in a peanut sauce for a cold noodle salad.

Another very well-regarded pick is this one from OXO, for £10.30 (via Amazon). Once you've got a peeler this capable, you'll rue all that time you spent slicing!

3. Freeze pods

On the weeks where I have extra time or leftovers after my immediate meal prep is done, I like to stock my freezer with meals that I can use in case of emergencies (or laziness). The best buy I've found to do this with is Lakeland's genius freeze pods (£8.99) which you can pick up with 3 portion spaces or 2.

The non-stick silicone means that leftovers are easy to pop out onto a bowl or plate to microwave and the design means that they stack neatly on top of each other too, so you're not left with an overflowing shelf.

It's not just lunches or dinners that are handy for freezing in them. You can also pop in leftover stock, sauces, soups or even cakes and puddings. They're a slick and inexpensive way to get healthy, homemade freezer meals sorted.

4. Microwave rice cooker

A dedicated rice cooker might horrify those who value clear countertops over anything else but once you've tried one, you can't go back to sticking a pan over a hob. The ability to set off your rice at the beginning of cooking and not worry about it until you hear a beep of completion is unparalleled.

I recently discovered that there's a rice cooker that works for minimalists too – Joseph Joseph's microwave version. There's no plugging in to the mains required – just pop your washed rice in with the right amount of water, wait 10 minutes and your perfectly cooked rice will emerge. It's been a godsend for prepping rice salads, burritos and other meal prep staples.

With these buys on hand I've got myself into a food prep routine that works and makes the rest of the week easier. Do you have any kitchen essentials you swear by for getting organised?

If there’s one underrated kitchen appliance that definitely deserves a spot in your kitchen, it is undoubtedly a humble rice cooker. And if you’re yet to get your hands on one of these much-loved appliances, the Aldi rice cooker Specialbuy is coming back to stores this week, and it’s only £9.99.

Landing in stores on Thursday (20 August), Aldi’s rice cooker has arrived back in stock right on time for freshers heading off to university. But I think this star buy deserves a place in every kitchen - especially if you struggle to nail perfect, fluffy rice every time.

At just £9.99, this incredibly affordable kitchen gadget is not to be missed. Here’s why we at Ideal Home rate it so highly as a kitchen essential.