Ellen Jenne

Sir David Attenborough has advised UK cat owners to fit bells to their cats’ collars to help reduce bird deaths, with cats estimated to kill around 55 million birds annually. Additional measures include keeping cats indoors at dawn and dusk, placing bird feeders at least two metres from dense vegetation and potential launching points, and using covered feeders to make gardens safer for birds.

The KonMari folding technique may create more suitcase space than rolling clothes. Garments are folded into compact rectangles and stored upright beside one another. Travelers are also advised to avoid bulky toiletries, buy essentials after arrival when practical, and use jewellery and cable organizers to keep luggage tidy.

A cleaning tip from TikTok creator Lily recommends soaking kitchen roll in white vinegar and placing it over shower limescale for about 10 minutes. The vinegar’s acetic acid breaks down calcium and magnesium deposits, and the method can also be used to descale appliances such as kettles and dishwashers.

Citric acid can be used to pre-treat sun cream stains, particularly yellowing and discolouration on white or pale clothing. The recommended method is to soak garments, optionally with Napisan or Oxi Action, overnight before washing them normally. White vinegar can be added instead of fabric conditioner to help remove odours and residue. Sunscreen oils, emulsifiers and UV filters can react with fabric dyes, water minerals and sweat, especially on polyester and nylon.

Regularly cleaning kitchen sink drains can help prevent flies, particularly drain flies, from breeding in moist organic buildup. The recommended routine is to pour boiling water down the plughole, optionally use washing-up liquid or soda crystals, and clean the drain weekly or daily during an infestation. Wiping surfaces, sweeping floors, emptying bins, covering fruit and avoiding dirty dishes can further reduce food sources and odors that attract flies.

Upper-floor rooms can become 5 to 15 degrees warmer than lower parts of a home because hot air rises. The Met Office advises closing curtains or blinds on sun-facing windows, keeping windows and doors shut during the hottest part of the day, opening windows in the evening when temperatures fall, and leaving internal doors open to improve airflow. Sheets or towels can be used as temporary window coverings.

Ellen Jenne compares own-brand tortilla chips from Aldi, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Marks & Spencer with Doritos Cool Original. Aldi’s 89p chips tie Doritos at 8/10, offering similar appearance and strong flavour at a much lower price, though they lack Doritos’ tanginess. Tesco scores 4/10 for an unusual acidic flavour, Sainsbury’s gets 5/10 for being ordinary and better suited to nachos, and M&S comes last at 3/10 because its £1.30 chips are bland and chewy.

A lettuce-storage technique promoted by chef Charles Kim, known online as Chef Fatty, involves removing damaged leaves, ensuring the lettuce is dry, and loosely wrapping it in aluminium foil. Tests cited by Allrecipes found foil-wrapped romaine remained fresh for more than 30 days, while lettuce in its original packaging lasted only two to three weeks and required more trimming. The method is thought to work by balancing moisture retention with ventilation, though there is no definitive scientific explanation.

A homemade fly repellent can be made by simmering lemon, cloves, rosemary and lemongrass essential oil in water. The mixture’s strong citrus and herbal scents are said to discourage flies and can be transferred to a spray bottle for use around doors, windows and other entry points. The ingredients and water should be refreshed every few days, and care is advised because unsuitable ingredients could attract flies instead.

Tomato plants benefit from weekly applications of tomato feed during the growing season, alongside consistent watering. A capful mixed with four to five litres of water should be poured onto the compost around the plant’s base, not its leaves. Tomato feed supplies nutrients such as potassium and phosphorus, while avoiding cycles of excessive dryness and saturation helps prevent plant stress and split fruit.

Bathrooms can become particularly damp and prone to mould during humid summer weather, especially when ventilation is poor. Houseplants that absorb moisture from the air are presented as a natural, chemical-free way to help reduce humidity. Snake plants are recommended as a low-maintenance option, while peace lilies, orchids, ferns, aloe vera and English ivy are also identified as suitable choices for warm, humid bathrooms.

Epsom salt is presented as a supplementary treatment for dry, yellowing lawns because its magnesium content may support chlorophyll production, photosynthesis and grass recovery. The recommended mixture is one tablespoon per litre of water, applied in the morning or early evening, no more than once every six weeks. It should not replace fertilizer, and overuse may damage the soil.

Leaving a washing machine’s door and detergent drawer open after every cycle allows moisture to evaporate and helps prevent mould, bacteria and musty odours. Marilee Nelson of Branch Basics recommends removing clothes promptly and improving airflow, while white vinegar can be used to clean mould from the detergent drawer and rubber seal or as part of an empty hot wash.

Cleaning influencer Chantel Mila recommends a homemade spray containing water, dishwasher rinse aid, white vinegar and rubbing alcohol for removing fingerprints, grease and hard-water marks from glass and stainless steel. The mixture should be sprayed on, worked in with a microfibre cloth and buffed dry; bathroom glass should then be rinsed with water. The ingredients are described as helping dissolve grease and mineral deposits, prevent watermarks and reduce streaking.

Practical ways to keep a home cool during a heatwave without relying on fans or air conditioning include blocking direct sunlight with closed blinds, curtains or shutters, using reflective window coverings, and opening windows in the evening to create cross-ventilation. The guidance also recommends concentrating cooling efforts in one or two rooms, avoiding heat-producing areas such as kitchens, and using electric fans efficiently when necessary.

Under UK law, cats are generally treated as having a legal right to roam, meaning owners are usually not liable when their cats enter a neighbour’s garden or foul there. Legal experts recommend first discussing the problem amicably and trying humane deterrents such as motion-activated sprinklers, protective netting, suitable planting, gravel or stones, and additional litter facilities. A nuisance or negligence claim may be possible if the cat causes substantial, repeated damage, but court action is likely to be difficult and costly. Property covenants, lease terms and managing agents may provide alternative avenues, while mediation, Citizens Advice and animal charities can offer further help.

Cleaning expert Chantel Mila recommends soaking an air-fryer basket in baking soda, washing-up liquid and boiling water to loosen burnt-on food, grease and grime without scrubbing. A baking-soda paste can be used for more stubborn marks, while the ingredients are also said to reduce odours and improve hygiene.

Lavender should be pruned in mid to late summer, ideally around August or September after flowering, to prevent it becoming leggy, woody and short-lived. Gardeners should reduce the plant by about one-third, cut just above fresh green growth or new buds, and avoid cutting into old wood because it may not regrow. Leaving some new growth in place can provide winter protection, while compost can help support the plant.

A taste test of three Sainsbury's own-brand vanilla ice creams finds that the £1.50 Stamford Street Co Soft Scoop offers nostalgic value but lacks creaminess and melts quickly. The £1.65 Sainsbury's Vanilla Flavour Soft Scoop performs slightly better, while the £3.50 Taste the Difference ice cream is considered the clear winner for its double-cream base, Madagascan vanilla, rich texture and more authentic flavor, despite its much higher price per litre.

Greek yoghurt and natural yoghurt are both made by fermenting milk with live bacterial cultures, but Greek yoghurt undergoes an additional straining process that removes whey, making it thicker and generally higher in protein. Natural yoghurt has a lighter texture and gentler taste, while Greek yoghurt is preferred for protein-rich snacks and thicker dishes. Both can be part of a balanced diet, with natural yoghurt commonly used in baking, cereals, smoothies and dressings, and Greek yoghurt in dips, marinades and sauces.

A cleaning specialist recommends washing up liquid and microfibre cloths as a simple, inexpensive method to remove grease and fingerprints from kitchen cabinets. The technique involves wiping with a damp cloth in circular motions and drying with a second cloth to prevent streaks. Asda is noted for offering budget-friendly washing up liquid.

Dishwasher odours often result from food residue, grease and mould buildup, and can be treated by placing a bowl of white vinegar on the top rack and running a cycle. Vinegar’s acetic acid dissolves grime, neutralises smells and helps remove limescale, though experts caution it may damage rubber seals or cause metal discolouration. Opinions differ on alternatives like apple cider vinegar and lemon juice, with some advising against their use while others consider apple cider vinegar an acceptable substitute. Users are warned not to add vinegar to the rinse aid dispenser.

White vinegar is recommended as an effective, eco‑friendly solution for removing limescale from kettles by boiling a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water, repeating as necessary and rinsing thoroughly. Its acetic acid dissolves mineral deposits without harming appliances. Descaling experts and food testers confirm the method’s reliability, though scale in the spout can be harder to remove and vinegar may irritate sensitive skin.

A cleaning enthusiast recommends replacing fabric softener with white vinegar when washing towels to remove residue and restore softness. Vinegar helps break down detergent buildup, minerals, and body oils, while also brightening clothes and removing odours. Experts note that vinegar works especially well with hot water, though overuse may damage washing machine components.

A comparison of four Marks & Spencer sausage rolls found significant differences in quality and flavour across price points. The budget British Large Sausage Rolls were judged poorly for scant filling and weak taste, while the Collection Classic Pork Sausage Rolls ranked highest for balanced seasoning, ample meat and appealing pastry. The premium Our Best Ever Sausage Roll failed to impress due to bland sausage meat and texture issues, and the oversized Collection Ultimate Sharing Sausage Roll offered good value but lacked the strong flavour of its standard-sized counterpart.

Experts warn that the ongoing UK heatwave is placing significant stress on garden birds such as robins and blackbirds, urging gardeners to provide accessible water sources to support them. Specialist advice highlights that water is the most vital resource during hot weather, recommending shallow trays, ponds and well-maintained bird baths while stressing the importance of hygiene to prevent disease. Conservation groups advise avoiding pesticides, delaying hedge trimming during nesting season and choosing appropriate high‑energy summer foods. Guidance from the RHS, RSPB and wildlife experts emphasizes that simple steps—especially ensuring clean, plentiful water—can help birds survive prolonged dry and hot conditions.

Hot water poured directly from a kettle is recommended as an effective, eco‑friendly method for killing patio weeds by destroying plant cells and reaching deep roots. The technique causes weeds to wilt within minutes and die by the next day, often requiring minimal effort and no chemicals. Larger weeds may need a second application, but the approach is free, fast and safe for surrounding wildlife, helping maintain clean patios and driveways throughout summer.

A gardening expert recommends using frost fleece to protect potted plants during UK heatwaves, noting that the lightweight material reflects sunlight, retains soil moisture, and keeps plants cooler. The fleece can be placed over soil or wrapped around entire plants, allowing light and water to penetrate while reducing heat stress.

Moisture buildup in wardrobes can lead to hidden mould growth, but cleaning expert Chantel Mila recommends a simple remedy using uncooked rice and a few drops of lemon essential oil placed in a drawstring bag to absorb dampness and freshen the space. Rice acts as a natural desiccant and can remain effective for up to three months. Expert Michael Bogoyavlenskiy supports the method, noting its ability to reduce odours while drawing in moisture, offering a natural alternative to dehumidifiers for preventing mould in confined spaces.

Advice from gardening expert Ish highlights that a light early-summer trim can prevent lavender from becoming leggy and woody. Gardeners are urged to remove only the top portion with spent flowers, avoiding cuts into the woody base to preserve regrowth. A larger prune of green foliage in late summer supports fuller blooms the following year. Proper placement in sunny, well-drained soil and occasional watering help maintain healthy lavender, while insufficient or poorly timed pruning can lead to reduced flowering and shortened plant lifespan.

Dishwasher odours can develop from debris, grease and mould, but cleaning expert Chantel Mila recommends placing sliced lemon in the top rack during a normal wash cycle to break down grease, reduce limescale and freshen the machine. While effective for deodorising, it does not remove food debris, and users are advised to remove seeds to avoid blocking filters.

Cardboard sheet mulching is recommended as an effective, low-effort, chemical‑free method for suppressing garden weeds while enriching soil. Gardening expert Elizabeth Florio highlights cardboard’s value as a sustainable weed barrier, supported by positive results shared by gardening enthusiasts. The method involves placing plain, uncoated cardboard over weeds, overlapping layers, wetting them for stability, and covering with mulch or compost for planting.

Magnesium deficiency is identified as a common but overlooked cause of yellowing leaves and poor growth in tomato plants, with experts recommending Epsom salt as a useful supplement when the deficiency is confirmed. Signs include yellowing between leaf veins and stunted development, and a soil test can verify the issue. Applying a diluted Epsom salt solution monthly can restore plant health, though overuse may harm growth and is ineffective if the problem stems from excess potassium blocking magnesium uptake.

Proper hydration and mulching help Japanese maples maintain vibrant foliage during hot July weather. Shallow root systems make them vulnerable to drying out, leading to leaf curl and premature shedding. Plant care specialist Kiersten Rankel advises deep, infrequent watering and applying moisture‑retentive mulch such as pine bark, wood chips, compost or leaf mould while avoiding nitrogen‑rich options. A thin, even mulch layer and weekly deep watering help protect roots, prevent weeds and keep foliage red and healthy through summer.

High temperatures cause weeds to grow more quickly, prompting interest in natural weed‑killing methods. Gardening creator Ifzaal recommends using white vinegar as an inexpensive and chemical‑free option, noting it works within hours and fastest on hot, sunny days, though it can damage grass. Vinegar’s acetic acid dehydrates and kills young weeds, but its effects are temporary and limited. Experts advise that combining vinegar with baking soda, salt or lemon juice can improve results, while cautioning that salt can accumulate in soil and hinder future growth.

A cleaning influencer recommends a simple mixture of baking soda, lemon juice and water to remove grease and stains from kitchen cabinets without scrubbing. The solution is applied with a cloth, left for several minutes and then wiped away, leaving cabinets fresh and shiny. Commenters report positive results and praise the method.

Plants benefit from watering in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler and evaporation is reduced. Gardening expert Ish recommends watering between 7am and 9am or after 9pm, adding that struggling plants can be watered during the day without risk of burning. Additional tips include moving container plants to shade, using pale gravel to keep soil cool and installing shade screens to protect plants from heat.

A cleaning expert recommends deep cleaning air fryers using bicarbonate of soda and washing-up liquid, which loosen grease without scrubbing. The mixture’s surfactants and alkaline properties help dissolve residue, neutralise odours and remove bacteria. Additional expert notes highlight its gentle abrasive action and deodorising ability, making it a simple and effective method for maintaining appliances.