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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Morris & Co collections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shop more textured lamps

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shop compliant plug-in solar panels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alternatives

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shop freestanding kitchen islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bulb planting kit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alternative striped Christmas paper stars

Which striped paper Christmas star are you going for?

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

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

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

1. Stop clothes slipping off hangers

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

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

2. Clean your blinds

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

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

3. Open stubborn jars

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can you grow grapes in the UK's climate?

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

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

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

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

Top tips for growing grapes

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

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

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

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

Where to buy grapes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zoning a bathroom with tiles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get the look

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

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

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

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

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

Shop the look

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is a window curfew?

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

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

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

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

Is this a good method to use?

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

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

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

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

Deter spiders from your home:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alternative advent calendars to invest in

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So far, three new candles have dropped on the M&S website: Mandarin, Clove and Cinnamon; Frankincense and Myrrh; and Yultide Pine and Spice.

This year the candles have been named by scent rather than the scene they’re depicting. In previous years we’ve seen snowy London, Paris, Edinburgh and even Cardiff skylines, each illuminated by twinkling LED’s when lit. This year, three new scents take the forefront of the brand’s bestselling Christmas candles.

First, let's talk about Mandarin, Clove and Cinnamon. This sweet, yet spicy fragrance is held in a red vessel, depicting a snowy townscape. It has citrus notes of lemon, bergamot, grapefruit, orange and mandarin, as well as peppery clove and cinnamon.

As you would probably guess, the Frankincense and Myrrh candle smells of Frankincense and Myrrh. However, M&S explains that Frankincense is part of the amber family of fragrance, which is rich and warming, and means you may smell notes of vanilla, pepper, tonka bean and amber. The vessel itself is a beautiful gold sky of stars.

Lastly, the Yultide Pine and Spice candle comes in a green vessel depicting a wintry forest scene. It combines earthy fir, spices and sweet clementine for a truly festive scent. You can expect woody notes of sandalwood, cinnamon leaf, amber and musk.

All three candles are refillable (which also happens to be a big candle trend this year) and are held in glass vessels for a weighty, luxe feel. Built into the glass are twinkling LED lights which light up when the candle is lit. What this does is create an even more beautiful, festive glow to your candlelight. Having purchased the Townhouse candle in 2024 as a gift for my partner’s mum, I can promise that these candles really take a Christmas tablescape to the next level.

These three scents are new to the light-up candle range, and I haven’t had a chance to smell them yet. I have smelt the Neroli, Lime & Bergamot scent, which M&S has used for previous light-up candles, and can vouch that it has a gorgeous, rich and festive scent. Based on this, I trust the new candles will be of equal quality - although I do plan on testing them out for myself as soon as possible.

So far, these are the only three light-up candles available on the M&S website. However, I will be checking the website regularly to check for new designs if and when they come in. In the meantime, here are a few more M&S Christmas scents that have caught my eye.

These light-up candles always sell fast, so if you like what you see, I recommend purchasing now to avoid disappoinment later.

Lakeland has unveiled a shiny new range of espresso machines, including a stainless steel bean-to-cup model that retails for just £299.99 (via Lakeland).

Usually, one of the best bean to cup coffee machines will set you back at least £500, especially if kitted out with a good quality milk frother. That means this own-brand Lakeland option certainly looks like a great pick if you're on a budget (or if you're shopping for a Christmas present for the coffee lover in your life).

Here's a closer look at this three-machine line up, which starts at £109.99 for the most basic espresso machine option.

The two espresso machines in this line up would be a great investment for anyone who wants to try their hand at making coffees at home for the first time. Perhaps as an upgrade from one of the best pod coffee machines, they will require you to either use ground coffee or pick up one of the best grinders.

If you're not sure what size coffee machine you're ready to invest in, one of these affordable picks may also be a better option thanks to their small footprints. Thinking about how much worktop space you have to give up is key according to our expert's advice on buying a coffee machine.

For me, the real star of this line up is the Barista Deluxe Bean-to-Cup model. Given its price tag, it looks like it might be a rival to ProCook's range of affordable machines, which have sold out on multiple occasions.

It's a bean-to-cup model, which means you grind and tamp your grounds all within the same machine – making for a very neat and tidy worktop and a very fresh cup of coffee.

It has 30 different grind settings, so that you can play around with it depending on which type of beans you have in and 'intelligent temperature control for consistent flavour' according to Lakeland.

It has a simple button interface running along the control panel at the top, but I think the overall effect is quite pleasing - especially if you're a fan of stainless steel appliances.

My everyday coffee machine at home is the Sage Barista Express Impress (which retails for £729.95) and I'd hazard a guess that this much more affordable machine definitely provided some inspiration for this Lakeland version.

One thing that this Lakeland version lacks over Sage's bestseller is an integrated tamping system. Instead, once you've ground your beans with the Barista Deluxe, you'll then use a tamper to even them out before you pull your shot of espresso.

Both feature a manual milk wand however, unlike the Ninja Luxe Café (which I think is the best value coffee machine on the market given its features) which has automatic frothing modes.

Given the bargain price tag of these Lakeland machines, there'll certainly be an appetite for those looking to invest in a bean-to-cup machine for a little less. Can you see the appeal in a compact all-in-one model like this?

Over the past week, I’ve very happily gorged on the latest designs to make their way into the now-iconic Habitat x Morris & Co collaboration - and the one piece I can’t stop thinking about is the Habitat x Morris & Co. Hyacinth Quilted Bedspread (£60)

Last week, the Habitat x Morris & Co. collection for AW26 dropped, and there has been no shortage of future classics landing in store and online. But one thing this collaboration always nails is their bedding.

I’d argue the Habitat x Morris & Co. bedding drops are some of the most beautiful bedding designs I’ve seen, and now, hopping on the latest bedspread trend, the Hyacinth Quilted Bedspread is the must-have autumn bedroom accessory.

If you ask me, Habitat is one of the best places to shop Morris & Co. designs, and this latest example does the iconic Arts and Crafts designer justice, not to mention nails one of the biggest bedding trends of the year - the return of the bedspread.

‘Bedspreads fit perfectly with the move towards bedrooms that feel softer, more layered and more considered. We’ve seen a real appetite for interiors that feel comfortable and lived-in rather than overly styled, and a bedspread is a very easy way to bring that look into a bedroom,’ says Expert Comment from Gareth Coxall, Creative Director at Terrys Fabrics.

‘They also tap into the growing popularity of nostalgic, traditional decorating. Quilted finishes, florals and textured fabrics can introduce that slightly vintage feel without having to completely redecorate.’

Amy Lockwood, Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor, agrees, pointing out she’s seen this trend everywhere this year.

'One of this year's biggest bedding trends is heirloom-style bedding, and this Habitat x Morris & Co. bedspread sums up the look perfectly. I've seen statement quilts at all the big retailers this autumn, from John Lewis' contemporary take on the classic patchwork quilt to Pottery Barn's trad-look quilted bedspread collection. However, Habitat just nailed this on-trend look for a lot less money,’ she says.

It’s true, John Lewis’s quilts - such as the gorgeous Diamond Patchwork Quilt - retail for £200, while Habitat and Morris & Co’s Hyacinth Bedspread is a far more affordable £60. Yet it still delivers a high-end look.

The Hyacinth bedspread consists of two Morris & Co. prints. The first is Hyacinth, which was designed between 1900 and 1912 by John Henry Dearle, and the second is Woodland Weeds, which was first printed in 1905 by John Henry Dearle.

The bedspread itself is made from 100% cotton and is machine washable for ease of use. Despite its autumnal look, it can be used all year round, adding extra warmth in winter and even replacing your duvet in spring and summer when it gets too warm.

It’s not the only piece of bedding to drop over the week either. Here are a few more Habitat x Morris & Co. designs I can’t stop lusting over.

If there's one thing I'm treating myself this pay day it's this gorgeous bedspread. I can't think of anything better for snuggling up under this autumn.

It may only be September, but The White Company’s Christmas shop is officially open - and believe us, it’s worth shopping now as these stylish pieces are prone to selling out.

Whether you’re on the hunt for one of the best artificial Christmas trees or new Christmas decorating ideas, The White Company is, without doubt, one of the most stylish places to shop.

As a result of this, the brand’s Scandi-style designs frequently sell out fast - meaning our best advice when it comes to The White Company Christmas shop is to shop as early as you can.

The first thing to be aware of is that the 7.5ft Symons Pre-Lit Christmas Tree and Tree Skirt (£825) and the 7.5ft Pre-Lit Grand Spruce Christmas Tree (£4.95) are finally back in stock after selling out last year. The Symons tree is so popular that it sells out every year, so this is the one item I would not wait around to buy - it’s usually completely sold out by November.

Another piece that won’t stick around for long is, of course, The White Company Advent Calendar. The 2026 calendar (£195) is rated by Ideal Home’s experts as one of the best advent calendars you can buy, and it sells out every year. Expect to find £336 worth of product, including the best-selling Winter Signature Candle.

Sara Hesikova, Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor, spends a lot of time hunting down the best Christmas shopping deals, and these are The White Company buys she has her eyes on.

‘There are some smaller pieces of Christmas decor that look amazing and will surely enjoy a lot of popularity - pretty tree skirts are set to be a big Christmas decor trend this year, and this velvet tree skirt is so chic,’ she says.

‘If you want your Christmas foliage to last for years to come, you can invest in The White Company's luxury designs like the pre-lit frosted branch, which would be my top pick and was one of the brand's bestsellers last year. And don't forget Christmas lights - The White Company makes some really beautiful ones, like this glitter pre-lit garland.'

So without further ado, here are my top picks from The White Company Christmas shop.

It way seem a little early, but trust us - 'tis the season to score a the best decor before it sells out.

You’re probably thinking that it’s too early for buying a Christmas tree – but I’m telling you right now is actually the best time to snap up the most popular Christmas trees that sell out by mid October year after year. One of such bestselling Christmas tree designs is the John Lewis Cotswold potted pre-lit Christmas tree.

John Lewis just brought back the Cotswold, one of its best artificial Christmas trees, and it’s now available to shop online – and later this month when the retailer opens its physical Christmas shop, you’ll be able to buy it in store, too.

The £580 Cotswold tree is our top-rated artificial Christmas tree which every year earns the top spot of the best overall Christmas tree in our buying guide. It’s the most realistic-looking tree I’ve ever come across, it comes pre-lit for ease (so you don’t have to buy or add any more Christmas lights) and instead of an ugly metal stand which you’ll need to cover with a tree skirt or presents, it comes potted which looks so much more elevated.

The only downside of this tree is that it sells out early. It’s the retailer’s bestselling design for a few years running and it’s only available in one size – 7ft which makes the stock more limited compared to some of the other Christmas tree styles.

After the Cotswold tree initially sold out last year, there was a limited surprise second drop later in November. But this is not something I’d count on – so if this is the style of tree that you’re after, snap one up while there’s enough stock available.

Alternative John Lewis trees I recommend

So no, it’s not too early to buy a Christmas tree! Not if you want to get your hands on the best one there is – in this case, the early bird catches the worm.

When it comes to finding stylish dish racks, many options leave a lot to be desired. Practicality certainly comes first with this kitchen essential, but when it's on show all of the time, it needs to be aesthetically pleasing too.

This brass Dunelm dish drainer combines all of the best things - style, affordability, and a clever space-saving design that makes for an efficient kitchen.

Brass is a kitchen trend that certainly isn't going anywhere in 2027, and if anything, it's showing up more and more in practical pieces of kitchenware. Here's why you should consider the trend with this chic dish drainer.

While kitchens need to be practical, finding beautiful versions of everyday necessities will make your kitchen feel carefully curated in every corner.

Dish drainers, or dish racks, are one of the trickier pieces of kitchenware to find a pretty alternative for. Many are stainless steel or plastic, and while functional, result in eyesores directly on view next to your sink.

Matching the metal finishes in your kitchen is a small and simple tweak that has a big impact. If brass is your chosen hardware finish, opting for kitchenware with brass touches such as pots, pans, and utensils, will pull the whole look together.

Dunelm's two-tier brass dish drainer is unlike any other style that I've seen. It's a soft, antique brass finish so rather than a shiny gold look, it has a lived-in feel.

This specific shade is a big kitchen trend that is here to stay. 'Brass brings warmth and a subtle sense of luxury to a kitchen, and it works beautifully with the softer, more earthy colour palettes we expect to see becoming increasingly popular. It’s a relatively small detail, but it can have a big impact on the finished scheme,' explains Sam Harris, senior design consultant for Ashford Kitchens & Interiors.

The two-tier style of this dish rack is destined for small kitchen ideas. It doubles the amount of dishes you can stack without increasing the width, which is especially useful if you don't have a dishwasher.

Even if you are lucky enough to have a dishwasher, having a spacious dish rack is essential when hosting, as glassware and larger pieces of kitchenware can quickly stack up.

For just £26 for this larger style, you can't go wrong. It will be the perfect antique-inspired addition to any country kitchen.

Shop more brass dish drainers

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

I’m not ashamed to admit that when autumn rolls around, I wait in anticipation to see what Stacey Solomon pulls out of the bag for her seasonal showstopper. While this year's decorated staircase is far simpler than last year’s doorscape, it’s actually a far easier example to follow at home.

Last September, Stacey Solomon’s pumpkin doorscape practically broke the internet and had us all racing to our local garden centre to try and recreate the statement arch. The TV personality has always been a curator of home decor trends, but given she’s in the midst of moving house, Stacey has opted for something more low-key.

Turning her stairs into a beautiful autumn scene, this seasonal hallway idea is actually really easy and affordable to recreate at home. Here’s how you can do it too, according to interior design experts.

As well as showing off her gorgeous dark wood staircase (which is another retro, luxe trend we’re seeing everywhere this year), Stacey adorned her bannisters with autumn garlands, lanterns, fairy lights and of course, plenty of pumpkins. While simple in design, the finished result looks beautifully cosy.

‘I think Stacey's autumn staircase works so well because it's a more considered and understated take on seasonal decorating. Rather than overwhelming the space with lots of colour and decorations, she's focused on layering natural textures and autumnal tones, which feels warm, welcoming and much more achievable for homeowners,’ says Victoria Robinson, trend expert at Hillarys.

‘What I particularly like is how the display complements the staircase rather than competing with it. The foliage creates softness and movement, while the seasonal accents add personality without making the space feel cluttered. It strikes a balance between creating visual impact and maintaining a stylish, lived-in feel.’

How to get the look

If you’re feeling inspired by Stacey’s handiwork, the good news is that it is incredibly easy to recreate.

‘You really don't need to spend a fortune to recreate this look. A simple autumn garland running along the handrail or around the base of the bannister is a great starting point. As Stacey has done, adding a wreath at the top of the stairs is also a clever way to draw the eye upwards and make the whole display feel more considered,’ says Natalie Evans, founder and CEO of home styling and staging company Little Barn Door.

‘At £7.99, the Hinch Home Fall Garland at Home Bargains is a steal, and there is a matching wreath available too. Add a couple of pumpkins or autumnal accessories you already own, and you can create a really impactful seasonal display on a relatively small budget.

‘While it is certainly Instagrammable, some of the individual pieces placed directly on the stairs may not be the most practical choice for everyday family living. Removing those smaller pieces and keeping the garland and decorations around the bannister would achieve a very similar look without creating a potential trip hazard.’

Natalie makes a good point. If your staircase gets a lot of traffic or you have little ones running up the stairs, the lanterns and pumpkins positioned on the steps may not be the best idea. Instead, stick to the garlands and maybe consider a few hallway storage ideas to maximise space.

‘I'd recommend starting with faux foliage garlands, which can be reused year after year. Pair these with foraged branches, pinecones or dried seed heads for a natural, seasonal feel without a high price tag. You don't need to decorate every step either. Concentrating your styling along the bannister and adding a few carefully placed accents can create the same cosy autumn effect while keeping costs down,’ adds Victoria.

Shop the look

Autumnal decorating ideas don’t have to be overly showy or dramatic to make an impact. As Stacey has proven, a simple garland and a few fairy lights go a long way.

Are your baking trays looking a little worse for wear? As much as we probably don’t want to admit it, most kitchens have a cupboard where stained baking trays are left concealed. Luckily for you, cleaning experts have revealed the simple method that leaves trays sparkling without requiring hours of aggressive scrubbing.

You may have noticed that washing-up liquid isn’t always the best way to clean baking trays, especially when old food bakes onto the sheet, leaving stubborn, grimy stains. But while some people think dark stains are now a permanent feature of their pans, cleaning experts say you can remove them with a natural solution.

Instead of reaching for heavy-duty chemicals, bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar are among the best natural methods to clean a burnt pan. Here’s everything you need to know.

How to clean baking trays with bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar

There are so many things you can clean with bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar, so regardless of cleaning baking trays, these are two of the best cleaning products you can have in your arsenal. But when it comes to your trays, it’s a powerful combination that can wipe clean years' worth of grease.

‘One of the most effective ways to restore old baking trays and make them sparkle again is with a simple baking soda and white vinegar trick. It's affordable and easy to do. It can also help tackle years of built-up grease and burnt-on food residue as well as discolouration without relying on harsh cleaning products,’ comments Jade Golding-Gault, AO’s appliance expert.

What you need

• Bicarbonate of soda (£2, Amazon)
• White vinegar - we recommend Miniml's white vinegar (£6.60, Amazon)
• Bamboo scraper (£13.99, Amazon)

1. Removed food residue

‘Start by scraping away any loose residue using a wooden or bamboo scraper or a non-scratch brush. Avoid anything overly abrasive, particularly if the tray has a coating that could be damaged,’ says Kelly Moore, founder of Cleaning With Meaning.

If your pans are in regular rotation, they probably have built up a little food residue; gently removing any baked-on crumbs will give the bicarb a helping hand.

2. Add bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar

‘Start by sprinkling baking soda generously across the tray, paying particular attention to any burnt-on stains or heavily discoloured areas. Then pour over white vinegar until it begins to fizz and leave it to sit for 20 to 30 minutes. The reaction helps loosen stubborn grease and baked-on food particles, making them easier to remove,’ says Jade.

‘Gently scrub the surface using a non-scratch sponge or soft-bristled brush to lift dirt and residue without damaging the tray.’

3. You may need to make a paste

If your tray has tougher marks, consider making a bicarbonate of soda paste to help lift the embedded dirt off the tray.

‘Mix bicarbonate of soda with a small amount of warm water to create a thick paste, then spread it over the areas affected by baked-on grease and residue. Leave it for at least 30 minutes, or a few hours if the tray is particularly stubborn,’ says Kelly.

‘Take a reusable non-scratch scourer or cleaning brush with warm water to work the paste into the tray. Bicarbonate of soda provides gentle abrasion while helping to loosen grease and grime, without the need for aggressive chemical cleaners.’

4. Rinse off your tray

Lastly, it’s time to rinse off your baking tray with warm soapy water.

‘Wash the tray in warm, soapy water to remove any remaining residue and ensure the surface is completely clean. You can finish the process by drying thoroughly before storing to help prevent water marks and keep the tray looking its best,’ says Jade.

Upgrade your baking trays

If your pans are beyond redemption, here are a few more sparkling options you can use to upgrade your kitchen.

‘To keep trays looking newer for longer, try to clean them as soon as they've cooled after use, rather than allowing grease and food residues to harden,’ concludes Jade.

‘Using baking parchment or reusable liners can also help minimise build-up and reduce the amount of scrubbing needed after cooking.’

Depending on the state of your pans, this method may not restore them to their original state entirely. But it is a tried and tested method that cleaning experts genuinely use for sparkling baking trays.

With the arrival of September, the seasons are slowly shifting – and Marks & Spencer has been gradually releasing its autumn homeware collection. Some of the best pieces are already selling out – and I predict the just-dropped M&S ceramic table lamp won’t hang around for long either.

I got to see this stylish living room lighting idea IRL early a couple of weeks ago at the M&S autumn/winter 2026 press preview. And it was on this occasion that M&S Insider, James Rotheram revealed that this lamp is ‘the design of the season’, much like last season it was all about the M&S all-over glass table lamp.

The high-street brand is well-known and loved for its amazing lighting range which never ceases to amaze me with its new designer-look launches. So it’s perhaps no surprise that both of the new-season table lamps we at Ideal Home have been loving and have written about are already out of stock – the M&S alabaster and marble lamp and the new double-layer amber glass table lamp.

So what’s so special about this new £100 table lamp launch? As both the conical-shaped lampshade and base are ceramic, it’s really all about the glossy glaze finish which creates some beautiful effects as it reflects the light (as you can see in the below image I took of the lamp at the press preview).

Since the days are getting shorter and darker as we move into the cosy autumn season, a glossy, light-reflective lamp like this one is perfect for this time of the year. And I’m sure if you were to light a candle in the lamp’s vicinity, it would make for some pretty effects, too.

At the press showcase, M&S also had a beige version of this table lamp on display which has yet to launch. But to be honest, this dark green colourway has been my top pick all along.

More new-season M&S table lamp picks

Are you looking to add a new table lamp or two into your home this autumn season? And could this all-ceramic number from M&S be the one?

Sorry, leopard print; sorry, zebra and tiger and cow; there’s a new print that’s taking the fashion world by storm: deer. And now, it’s making its way over to the interiors world with the drop of Dunelm’s Deer Print Fabric Floor Lamp (£65).

Animal print has been a surprising home decor trend for the past few years, but has heavily centred on leopard and cow print. That is, until now. With deer print making waves in the fashion world, it’s only natural that it has found it

Now, Dunelm has introduced deer print to its viral fabric floor lamp collection and it has me asking whether animal print lamps will be the next big lighting trend.

If you covet quirky lighting, Dunelm is always a good place to look, offering hundreds of different styles that cater to a range of budgets. Early this year, they dropped leopard print, cow print, and Beatrice print fabric floor lamps as Specialbuys, and they quickly went viral on TikTok and Instagram.

What was so great about these lamps was that they could add some maximalist pattern to a room without making any major changes. I’m a firm believer that leopard print can be treated as a neutral, so I’d go far enough to argue that the leopard print lamp would suit any living room colour scheme.

If you have leopard or cow fatigue, deer print might be the animal print to sink your teeth into instead. Deer print offers a softer and gentler aesthetic compared to bold animal patterns, which is one reason why it’s trending right now.

Of course, working with any sort of animal print in your home is bold, but Dunelm’s fabric deer lamp feels like a softer alternative if you’re not quite convinced by louder patterns.

Decked out with a stylish velvet finish, this floor lamp is designed to catch your eye in your living room, reading room or as part of your bedroom ideas. It stands at 120cm tall, creating lots of visual impact; however, at 30 cm wide, it’s still slim enough to slot into small rooms.

The speckled deer print is drenched all over the lamp, which I think gives it its charming look. Nothing looks disjointed or out of place. The shade and base flow into each other, creating a cohesive look.

Alternatively, if the lamp is not to your taste, I’ve rounded up a few more deer print items I’ve spotted at Dunelm.

Do you think this deer print trend has longevity? Or is it more of a flash in the pan?

Smeg, the Italian appliances brand behind the most coveted toaster and kettle of the century, has unveiled its first ever standalone air fryer, available to buy from today via Smeg for £199.95.

With its compact size and classic Smeg detailing, it's made for small kitchens too – always a win in our books. And while it's definitely not cheap, the price point is around what you'd expect to pay for one of the best Ninja air fryers on the market.

So, if you already have the Smeg toaster and kettle duo of dreams, then adding this air fryer to your collection might be the next natural step. Here's everything I noticed about Smeg's take on this ultra-useful appliance when I saw it in person.

The most striking thing about this air fryer is how neat and tidy it looks. I think that's probably down to the fact that the opening is situated at the top of the appliance, leaving the front completely unobstructed. That means when it sits on your countertop, all you see is the Smeg lettering, rather than baskets or grills.

With a soft-close mechanism, lifting the lid on this air fryer does have a premium feel and inside you'll find a deep dishwasher-safe frying basket with two handles.

The heat and fan element of the air fryer sit inside of the lid (but are hidden from view when shut). The touch control panel, which is also not visible when not in use, sit neatly within a thin strip on the exterior of the appliance.

From that panel you can pick between the 7 preset programs available. These buttons will give you set timings and temperatures for 'chicken wings/legs, meat, fish, shrimps, chips, vegetables and roast chicken'. You can also set your own preferences manually if you're already a dab hand at air frying.

The feature that most impressed the rest of the Ideal Home team when they saw this air fryer in person was the clever window built into the lid. It allows you to check on the progress of your food inside without opening the air fryer and losing all of the heat inside.

There's always an appetite from fans of the brand for more Smeg colourways so it's no surprise the brand has launched their air fryer in an array of different shades from the offset.

The colours on offer are Matte Storm Blue, Matte Black and Matte Emerald Green. For those who swear by white kitchen appliances, there's also a Matte White – though this has already sold out on the Smeg website. You can sign up for updates for when that colour returns.

The appeal of matte over shiny appliances will be huge for those who want to hide their air fryer in plain sight. And, fingers crossed, the front should stay squeaky clean given that food will be put into the air fryer from the top.

Another quirk of this air fryer is the 'Juicy+Crispy' cooking mode, which is made possible thanks to the steamer element hidden in the lid. You can pop water in here and inject moisture into your food whilst it's cooking while still achieving that signature air fryer crisp.

Given that one colourway is already sold out, it's fair to say that this air fryer looks like it's going to be a very popular choice from Smeg. Can you see the appeal in this unique air fryer for your kitchen?

As a Homes Journalist and Certified Vacuum Expert, I love it when an appliance is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. But while I believe that every household needs a robot vacuum cleaner, they've never quite struck that pretty-but-practical balance.

After all, the best robot vacuums are typically quite intrusive, compromising your home’s design and decor. However, Bosch is looking to change that. The home appliance brand has just launched a fully integrated vacuum and mop robot, designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen cabinetry - so much so that it becomes ‘invisible’ when not in use.

Created in collaboration with robotics brand ECOVACS, the Bosch Built-In Vacuum and Mop Robot even comes with its own full-service station, where it automatically empties dry and wet debris and dries the mop pads before its next cleaning session. But this integrated design comes at a cost - spatially, practically, and, of course, financially.

Deciding whether a robot vacuum is worth it ultimately comes down to whether you want the convenience of a hands-free appliance doing the work for you - and whether you’re willing to sacrifice the overall ‘look’ of your home to house a freestanding appliance that doesn’t quite match your aesthetic.

The Bosch Built-In Vacuum and Mop Robot removes the freestanding, individualised aspect and turns it into a fully integrated addition that forms part of your kitchen - just like your oven and fridge. It’s hidden within cabinet plinths (the area between your cabinets and the floor), and the docking station is hidden in a cupboard that can be pulled out for maintenance.

When you need it to clean your floors, it’ll move out of its little hidey-hole and make its way around your house. When it’s finished, it’ll take itself back to its hidden home - out of sight and out of mind.

This new development isn’t just about design, though. It’s officially Bosch’s most powerful robot vacuum and mop to date, offering 20,000Pa of suction power, which, for reference, is the same cleaning power as the current number-one-rated robot vacuum cleaner in our guide, the Eufy Omni E25.

It also has an ultra-slim design to clean under furniture, plus smart navigation and multi-level mapping to clean every area of your home. Then, you can control everything via the app.

But what are my thoughts on this new development in the robot vacuum world? Well, I’m torn. On the one hand, I can definitely see the appeal and wholeheartedly agree that robot vacuums are often an ugly addition to any room.

On the other hand, I do find the concept quite limiting, especially as we’re in the midst of a serious robot vacuum revolution right now.

It seems as though new-and-improved models are being released every week, and I think the beauty of buying this appliance - especially if it’s your first robot vacuum - is figuring out the features and modes you like, and what you don’t like. Then, you work your way up from a cheaper model to a more expensive one.

In fact, I feel like my own favourite model changes every time I review a new robot vacuum cleaner, as they're changing so much, and so quickly, too.

For example, the robot vacuum I'm currently testing - the new roborock Qrevo Edge 2 Flow Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Mop (now just £599 at Amazon) has a whopping 35,000Pa of suction power. That's almost double that of the Bosch. And I know of even more coming soon that go well above 40,000Pa.

However, this model requires you to stick with the same robot vacuum to keep it integrated, and you’ll need to enlist a professional to install it properly. So, at just under £3,000 to buy and install, it would be a very expensive mistake if you don’t like the way the robot cleans - or the features it offers.

You’ve also got to consider the fact that this new integrated robot vacuum has to be installed within or next to an under-the-sink cupboard in a kitchen or utility room - meaning you’ll always have to sacrifice cupboard space in those specific rooms. Which, let’s be honest, are typically quite small and limited on storage space anyway.

Could you justify these quibbles in your home? If you value interior design and aren’t fussed about the latest models, I get it. It's a great idea on paper and makes sense for many people.

But with so many other ways to hide a robot vacuum cleaner, I’m not sure I’m 100% sold.

Alternatives to consider

What are your thoughts on a disappearing robot vacuum?

Actor Jacqueline Jossa has paired neutral with neutral by painting the doors in her home a warm beige shade. Experts say it is an ideal colour choice to invite cosiness to your home this autumn.

Jacqueline, best known for her role as Lauren Branning on EastEnders, has also racked up a huge following online, where she shares glimpses of her home and family life. And despite beige being out for 2026, her painted doors are making a serious case for a beige revival.

Her use of the colour palette results in a home that looks elegant yet warm and inviting. It’s a subtle paint choice, but one that works perfectly with the upcoming colder months.

Despite the fact that interior trends have dictated that beige is slowly being replaced by more earthy shades such as greens and browns, honestly, decorating with neutrals will never truly be out of fashion. And you absolutely should consider painting your doors with a warm neutral rather than traditional white gloss.

‘Whilst a white door feels crisp and classic, choosing a warm beige or soft neutral can really make a feature of a door and soften the overall feel of a room. It is a great way to introduce a touch of interest and warmth without flooding the entire space with earthy colour. It feels styled, but still incredibly liveable,’ says Natalie Evans, founder and CEO of home styling and staging company Little Barn Door.

‘The use of beige on the doors and bannister rail brings a sense of character and warmth without overcommitting to a cottage look. Introducing coloured woodwork into your home can sometimes be a gamble and is easily overdone, but this is a great middle ground. It is subtle enough to feel elegant, yet impactful enough to add character. Keeping elements of the staircase, spindles and skirting white also helps to show off the contrast and stops the beige from becoming too dominant.’

How to use beige like Jacqueline

As Jacqueline has demonstrated, a well-placed neutral can instantly warm a space. Painting your doorways is a great way to embrace beige without overly committing to it.

‘Doors take up much more visual space than people realise. In a hallway you might be looking at four or five of them at once, so changing their colour can warm up the entire area without committing to darker walls. Jacqueline’s shade works because it brings in warmth at eye level while the pale walls keep the space feeling light. It’s a useful trick if you like a neutral home but find an all-white scheme a little cold. You’re introducing depth without suddenly adding a strong colour that you may tire of,’ says Gareth Davies, design director of Classic Interiors.

‘It works because there’s enough difference between them. The doors are a warmer, deeper greige while the walls are much paler, then the white trim sits between the two and sharpens the whole thing up. That layering is what stops a neutral scheme from feeling flat. If the door and wall were almost the same beige, I think it would lose a lot of the definition that makes this look successful. Jacqueline’s hallway shows that neutral-on-neutral works best when you play with depth rather than trying to match everything perfectly.’

Natalie agrees, adding that while working with neutrals may be perceived as a safe choice, it can have a big impact when done well.

‘The key is contrast. Look at the undertones, depth and warmth of each neutral rather than simply assuming beige, cream and white will naturally work together. When you find the right pairing, the result feels classic, uplifting and full of subtle energy. That is what works particularly well here. The colours sit comfortably together, but there is still enough contrast to give the space definition and character,’ she says.

Shop beige interiors

For the longest time, I was so over beige. But Jacqueline Jossa has proved that this hue can look stylish, not dated.

Here at the Ideal Home office, we’re big fans of Little Greene’s paints. So it was big news when they announced they were launching 26 new paint shades. The new additions to the range reflect how people are using colour today, featuring cosy, moody shades that are not overly bright or saturated but still bring some much-needed colour to a home. And this is, of course, the perfect look and feel as the autumn season begins.

Little Greene is one of my favourite paint brands, always brimming with beautiful and creative paint ideas. And all the Ideal Home editors agree, many of whom have painted their homes in Little Greene shades – whether that’s our Digital Editor, Rebecca Knight’s pink living room painted in Little Greene Masquerade or our Editor-in-Chief, Heather Young’s office covered in a combination of Masquerade - Mid and Arras.

But it’s not just the Ideal Home team that’s fond of Little Greene’s paint colours. This is the go-to brand for all the interior insiders, be it interior designers or content creators with stylish homes. When asking interior designers for their favourite neutral paint shades, Little Greene’s Portland Stone was one of the three that kept coming up.

The newly launched shades are inspired by some of the more recent colour trends and how people have been using them in their homes. ‘Colour popularity changes over time; it’s an evolution rather than a revolution,’ says Ruth Mottershead, Little Greene’s creative director.

‘Over the past few years, we’ve seen colour move from rich blues into teals, then softer, nature-inspired greens, before moving towards stone-based neutrals and richer caramel tones. Now we’re seeing a real interest in mid-tones, balanced, gentler colours that still have character, but with the saturation turned down. These are colours that are easy to live with. They create spaces that feel calm and harmonious, while still bringing warmth, depth and personality to a room.’

But which shades from the new additions are going to be the new Masquerade? Or the new Portland Stone? I asked Ruth for her top pick and her bestseller prediction – so let’s meet them.

Perpetual Blue

‘It’s very difficult to choose just one favourite shade, as these mid-tonal colours are so easy on the eye. They’re incredibly versatile and adaptable, working beautifully across different spaces, light conditions and styles. If I had to choose, though, it would probably be Perpetual Blue, a mid to deep blue that has a hint of green which responds beautifully to changing light and adds a touch of warmth,’ Ruth reveals.

This almost teal blue is inspired by Sir Winston Churchill’s genuine paint palette from his studio at Chartwell in Kent. It’s a similar colour to Little Greene’s existing Celestial Blue shade, only deeper. In fact, Celestial Blue is getting three different variations in this drop with Celestial Blue - Deep, Mid and Pale to choose from.

‘Pair with soft whites and stone hues for a traditional feel or add a playful pop of a mid-tone pink such as Floss,’ Ruth adds.

Haye White

If you’re looking for the best white paint for your home, you might just find it in Little Greene’s new Haye White which Ruth predicts is set to be a future bestseller.

‘I think Haye White could be one of the most popular. It’s a soft, suffused white with a subtle amount of ochre, giving it a warmth that makes it incredibly easy on the eye. It has the softness of a warm white without becoming overly creamy, so it’s a very versatile colour that can work beautifully throughout the home,’ Ruth explains.

This release has several neutral shades but also different tones of the same colour, such as the neutral Barge Stone colour which also comes as Barge Stone - Dark, Mid and Pale, much like Celestial Blue.

My top pick

Similarly to Farrow & Ball’s new paint shade release last year, a warm, earthy orange is my favourite colour. With Farrow & Ball, it was Marmelo (and Etruscan Red). With Little Greene, it’s Ashes of Marigold, described as a softer, blackened version of a bold orange Marigold shade popular in the 1970s.

Which one is your favourite from the new additions to the collection?

While many gardeners enjoy tending to the birds that visit their gardens, there is one bird in particular that doesn’t receive as warm a welcome. I’m talking about seagulls, and experts have revealed the best ways to deter these birds from your garden.

Seagulls’ habitats have traditionally been in coastal areas and on clifflines, but due to urbanisation, you’ll find them in urban areas now, too. Given that they are opportunistic scavengers, when you attempt to attract songbirds to your garden, you might find you’re attracting seagulls, too.

While we always advocate for wildlife gardens, seagulls can be messy and noisy, making them a less-than-ideal guest. So, I asked experts for the best way to deter them humanely. This is what they said.

How to humanely deter seagulls from a garden

‘There are six main species of gull in the UK, from the Herring Gull to Kittiwakes. In a garden, they might create noise, rip open and feed from rubbish, or nest on the sides of buildings. Often appearing in a flock, this can create a big disturbance for householders,’ comments Sophie Thorogood, technical training manager at Pelsis.

Seagulls go where food is. Full stop. So, the best form of deterrence is to ensure all potential food sites are secured. This is similar to how you might deter rats or deter foxes from a garden. You need to make sure your bins are secure, for example, as seagulls will shred through your bin bags to reach any potential food, so it’s worth using bin straps (£9.98, B&Q) to stop anything opening your bin lids.

‘Gulls will be attracted into gardens due to food availability and therefore, think of all food sources that could be attracting them. This mainly will include waste overflowing from bins, so make sure it is stored correctly, emptied regularly and don't leave food out for them to feed on,’ adds Sophie.

This doesn’t mean you should stop feeding the garden birds that already visit your garden. You just need to be a little more strategic as to how you feed them.

‘Seagulls also routinely feed on the ground, so I’d totally avoid dropping food on the lawn to remove this food source for them in their natural way of feeding. To ensure our smaller feathered friends can still feed, don’t stop feeding birds entirely by any means. Ensure smaller birds can feed without being overpowered by seagulls by using caged bird feeders with protective mesh covers to block larger birds,’ says James Ewens, bird specialist at Green Feathers.

‘These noisy visitors are at their most clamorous from May through July while raising their young. During these months, it’s best to simply let them be, waiting until they have moved on before putting long-term deterrents in place to prevent a repeat visit next year.

‘Remember that active gull nests enjoy legal protection during construction and occupancy. It is strictly illegal to obstruct access to an active nesting site without explicit authorisation under license.’

Deter seagulls from your garden

You should never attempt to harm seagulls in a bid to get rid of them. Instead, simply removing any food sources will make your garden less desireable.

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!