Remember those TV ads where someone washed two white T-shirts with different washing powders and one (hint: the brand that’s being advertised) always came out blindingly clean? Well, we’ve been conducting our own version of that in hopes of finding which washing powders really are the best. We’ll start by saying that we always thought those adverts were questionable – especially as the kids...
There is so much choice when buying a cylinder vacuum cleaner. Bagless or traditional? Lightweight or heavy duty? Big investment or cheap and cheerful? We’ve taken all those things into account when testing the best in the market, tackling a range of hard floors and carpet, upholstery and even the occasional car valeting. Here’s our pick of the best picker-uppers – for those who like the...
It’s that time of year again when we need to start thinking about the Christmas shopping, and if you have rambunctious little toddlers to buy for, you may already be wracking your brains to find just the right gift. From educational to interactive and comforting, two-year-olds need plenty of stimulation but their toys still need to be safe for little hands and robust enough to put up with a lot...
It comes around quickly every year, so be prepared for Father’s Day on Sunday 19 June, and treat the father figure in your life to a gift more thoughtful than something you hastily picked up on a last-minute supermarket sweep. What to get men for presents is always a dilemma. More often than not, they will just buy it for themselves, or be so incredibly picky about something that it’s almost not...
Salt and pepper are two of the most crucial ingredients in any kitchen; just a dash of these everyday seasonings can take a dish from zero to hero. Not only are they imperative at the stove but they’re also staples on the dinner table, where everyone likes to season their food to taste. As with spices, freshly ground seasoning always far outshines the powdery pre-milled versions. It takes a...