Sophie Harris

A comparison of three washing machine cleaning methods found Dr. Beckmann’s deep-clean powder provided the most effective and fresh-smelling results at the best value, outperforming Dettol’s cleaner, which improved cleanliness but left a lingering odour, and white vinegar, which failed to eliminate mustiness and left an unpleasant scent.

Experts outline five common items that should not be placed in garden waste bins, warning that improper disposal can contaminate compost, damage machinery, and result in fines of up to £5,000. Soil, pet waste, invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed, food waste, and plastics or rubble pose risks ranging from health hazards to legal penalties, with guidance urging residents to follow proper recycling and disposal methods through councils or recycling centres.

High temperatures accelerate the decomposition of food waste, causing kitchen bins to smell quickly. Cleaning expert Nigel Bearman recommends emptying bins more often during warm weather and sprinkling bicarbonate of soda in the bottom before inserting a new liner to absorb moisture and neutralise odours. He also advises regular washing of bins and promptly removing strong‑smelling waste such as fish or meat.

Marks & Spencer recalled its Truffle Gouda cheese in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland after detecting Listeria monocytogenes. The Food Standards Agency warned of potential flu‑like and severe symptoms, particularly for vulnerable groups. Customers are advised not to consume the affected product and to return it for a full refund, while M&S emphasised its commitment to food safety and clarified that no other products are affected.

A comparison of four dishwasher tablet brands found M&S offered the most consistent and effective cleaning, outperforming supermarket competitors and even branded products like Finish, which delivered excellent results but was significantly more expensive. Aldi and Sainsbury’s tablets were adequate for everyday cleaning but struggled with tougher stains. The experiment showed that supermarket own-label tablets can rival or surpass premium brands in value and performance.

A vinegar rinse using a one-to-three vinegar–water solution helps strawberries resist mould and stay fresh longer by reducing spores. After soaking for up to a minute, the fruit should be rinsed, dried thoroughly, and stored in the fridge on kitchen roll to limit moisture. The method can also extend the freshness of other berries. Additional expert advice notes bananas keep better when separated and stored away from warm areas.

Sun-drying white bedding helps maintain brightness through natural UV bleaching and fresh air, while gentle handling preserves fabric quality. Direct sunlight, proper spacing and rotating sheets improve results, and sunlight exposure should be moderated for delicate materials. Napisan is recommended for soaking and brightening stubborn stains on whites such as socks, shirts and trainers.

With high temperatures forecast in the UK, gardeners are urged to monitor plants closely as heat increases the risk of drying out and damage. A gardening expert highlights five plants needing extra care: hydrangeas require consistently damp soil; hanging baskets dry out quickly and need daily watering; tomatoes need regular watering and weekly feeding; ferns require shade and moisture to avoid browning; and lavender, though drought-tolerant when established, must be protected from extreme dryness or overwatering.

A baker explains a reliable scone recipe enhanced by adding lemon juice, which reacts with baking powder to improve rise. The method includes combining self-raising flour, butter, sugar, warmed milk mixed with lemon juice, and optional sultanas before cutting, glazing, and baking. The added acidity produces lighter, better-risen scones.

Watering roses early in the morning helps prevent fungal diseases by allowing foliage to dry during the day and reducing water evaporation. Roses require deep, consistent watering in hot weather, especially those grown in containers, and should be watered at the base to protect foliage and reduce disease risk. Evening watering is an alternative but may attract slugs. Once established, roses need a thorough weekly soak during dry periods, along with regular feeding to maintain prolonged blooming.

Using tumble dryer sheets from Home Bargains keeps skirting boards dust-free for weeks due to their tacky surface and anti-static residue. The method is quick, inexpensive, and more effective than using a microfibre cloth, with scented sheets adding a pleasant fragrance.

Hot weather increases sweat, oils and dead skin in bedding, prompting a recommendation to wash sheets at least weekly and at 40C, with occasional 60C washes to eliminate bacteria and dust mites. Lower‑temperature washing is insufficient for hygiene, and overcrowding the machine prevents proper cleaning. Air‑drying in sunlight can further kill germs, though allergy sufferers may need to dry indoors. Similar hot‑water washing is advised for towels, with some experts suggesting white vinegar instead of fabric conditioner for deeper cleaning.

Rising grocery prices have increased demand for yellow sticker discounts, but not all supermarkets offer the same experience. M&S stands out for leaving reduced items in their usual aisles, making it easier to find bargains that suit meal plans and compare prices. Other chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda group reductions in dedicated sections, making them harder to sort through and often dominated by ready meals rather than fresh produce. Despite being less budget‑friendly overall, M&S still offers strong deals, including discounted yoghurt, pizza and sushi.

Advice from waste management specialists highlights that storing potatoes with an apple can delay sprouting due to ethylene gas, helping them last for months. Keeping potatoes in a cool, dark place or refrigerating them can further extend freshness, with concerns about acrylamide now considered outdated. Potatoes should be checked regularly for green patches or sprouting and removed from plastic bags to prevent moisture buildup. Additional tips include separating bananas, wrapping their stems and refrigerating them to slow ripening.

A low-cost method for removing moss and algae involves applying a 1:1 white vinegar and water solution to a cleared patio, letting it sit for an hour and lightly scrubbing to remove stains. The approach is inexpensive, effective on stubborn marks and may also help eliminate weeds, though surfaces should be spot-tested due to vinegar’s acidity.

Hydrangeas can develop more abundant blooms and deeper blue colouring when coffee grounds are added to the soil, which increases acidity and helps the plants absorb aluminium. A TikTok gardener demonstrated the dramatic difference between treated and untreated plants, prompting widespread interest from other gardening enthusiasts. The method works only on certain hydrangea varieties, such as lacecap, bigleaf and mophead, while smooth and oakleaf varieties cannot turn blue.

Chef Bill Granger recommends adding cream instead of milk to scrambled eggs to achieve a velvety texture. His method involves lightly whisking eggs with cream and salt, gently cooking the mixture in butter, and carefully folding the curds until softly set. He advises using a non-stick pan, minimal stirring, and avoiding overcrowding for consistent results. The recipe receives strong positive feedback from reviewers for its simplicity and taste.

Advice is provided on maintaining cooler indoor temperatures during increasingly hot UK summers by closing curtains and blinds early in the morning to block sunlight and reduce heat absorption. Additional suggestions include ventilating the home in the evening when temperatures drop, creating cross‑breezes, tilting blinds to minimise glare, avoiding heat‑generating appliances during peak hours, and using frozen hot water bottles at night.

Guidance from Toolstation outlines methods for keeping patios clean, recommending simple washing with soapy water for light grime and a white‑vinegar solution for tougher stains. The vinegar mixture, left on surfaces for 30 minutes before scrubbing, is highlighted as an effective, eco‑friendly alternative to pressure washing. Regular maintenance is encouraged to prevent buildup of moss and algae.

A visit to Frome in Somerset highlights its blend of historic charm, independent shops, and thriving markets, especially the monthly Frome Independent Market. Its cobbled streets, creative scene, and compact layout make it an appealing, quieter alternative to larger tourist destinations like Bath. The town’s mix of medieval lanes, Georgian architecture, and modern boutiques contributes to its distinctive character and wide appeal.

Experts recommend storing potatoes with an apple to slow sprouting due to ethylene gas, alongside keeping them in cool, dark, dry conditions. Modern guidance supports refrigerating potatoes to extend shelf life, though they should be checked regularly for sprouting or green patches. Additional tips include avoiding plastic bags and using a cardboard box with paper layers and baking soda to absorb moisture and reduce sprouting.

Five budget-friendly family dinners were prepared for under £20 using ingredients from Lidl, including homemade spaghetti and meatballs, Caesar pasta salad, jacket potatoes with cheese and beans, sticky chicken with rice, and cheesy bacon pasta. The meals relied on inexpensive staples, use of leftovers, and basic seasonings already on hand, demonstrating how planning and shopping at discount supermarkets can keep food costs low while still providing satisfying dishes.

Explains the differences between long‑grain and basmati rice, detailing variations in grain shape, aroma, texture, and cooking methods. Long‑grain rice is described as neutral, versatile, and fluffy, while basmati is highlighted for its distinctive fragrance, elongated grains, and suitability for dishes like pilau and biryani. Guidance is given on choosing the appropriate variety based on the desired dish and aroma.

Expert guidance highlights nine plants that benefit from pruning in July, with instructions aimed at promoting healthy growth and better flowering. Advice includes using clean tools and making cuts correctly, with specific recommendations for plants such as lavender, wisteria, clematis, hedges, and fruit trees. The guidance emphasises timing and technique to maintain plant shape, encourage vigorous regrowth, and enhance flower or fruit production throughout summer.

A Good Food recipe recommends adding a parmesan rind to enhance the depth and richness of spaghetti bolognese. The dish incorporates beef mince, pork sausages, pancetta, vegetables, herbs and wine, then slow-cooks for several hours. The rind infuses extra flavour as the sauce simmers, creating a more intense and balanced result. The recipe provides detailed steps for preparation, finishing the pasta, and serving.

Regular weekly feeding beginning when the first yellow flowers appear helps tomato plants shift energy toward fruiting and supports consistent growth, especially in containers. Consistent scheduling, following feed instructions, and avoiding overfeeding prevent root damage, while watering before feeding improves nutrient absorption. Morning feeding maximises uptake as roots become active, and alternating with a balanced liquid feed helps correct yellowing foliage caused by nutrient deficiencies.