Discover practical and clever tips to make home life easier and more enjoyable. From cleaning hacks to storage solutions, explore a range of ideas that help you keep your home organised, efficient, and comfortable.

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Handy Home Hints
Chill Out! Freezer tips to make life easier

Freezers are great for getting organised and saving time and money. Here are some nifty tips to make the most of your frosty friend.

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New adventures for your old toothbrush

Dentists recommend that you replace your toothbrush every three months, but there’s no need to toss it in the bin. It might not be up to keeping your teeth sparkling clean anymore, but it can still be useful.

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Flavouring, essence, extract: What’s the difference?

Ever found yourself staring at those tiny bottles in the supermarket, wondering whether you should grab the flavouring, essence, or extract? These three little liquids may look similar, but they can be quite different.

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Rice: Not just for eating!

If you have an ancient bag of rice that got lost at the back of the pantry and is past its use-by date, we have good news - it can still be extremely useful!

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Savvy substitutes – vegan style

Whether you're avoiding animal products for ethical reasons, simply trying something new, or you're missing a vital ingredient - the good news is that there's a substitute for loads of ingredients in the kitchen.

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Defeat the house dust!

Dust is one of those things that seems to be an annoying part of our lives – but where does it come from? And what can we do about it?

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Dairy Tales: Milk options explained!

Whether you’re adding it to your morning coffee or sloshing it on your cereal, there are lots (and lots and lots) of dairy milk options. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, here’s a quick rundown to help you navigate the milk aisle.

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Find your perfect (bedsheet) match

Shopping for sheets? From thread count to fabric types, it’s easy to get bogged down in the bedding aisle.

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Pill-proof your clothes

Have you ever pulled out your favourite sweater only to find it covered in pesky pilling? Here’s how to reduce the chances of it happening, and get rid of it if it already has!

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Where mould loves to lurk

Mould is a sneaky intruder that can cause health issues like allergies and respiratory problems. Here are some of this troublesome interloper’s favourite spots.

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Do you know your onions?

Onions are the unsung heroes of the kitchen and are one of the most commonly used vegetables in the world. But with so many varieties available, how do you know which to choose?

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Which quilt/doona/duvet is best for you?

Whatever you prefer to call them, when it comes to creating a cosy and comfortable bed, choosing the right quilt/doona/duvet is the key!

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Prepare your gas barbie for winter hibernation

We have some simple steps to prepare your barbecue for winter storage, and make sure it’s ready to shine once spring rolls around.

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Run out of thyme? Here's what you can use instead

Ever found yourself in the middle of a cooking session only to realise you're missing an important herb or spice? No need to panic - there’s often a substitute that can save the day and your dinner!

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Avoid a washing machine disaster

Ever opened your washing machine to pull out your favourite shirt only to find a mysterious stain that wasn’t there before it went in? Welcome to the world of laundry! If you're like most people, your washing machine is one of your home's unsung heroes, tirelessly cleaning your clothes, bedding, and sometimes, items that frankly shouldn't be there. Here's what not to throw into your washing machine and why.

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Unleash the potential of your muffin trays!

You can use your muffin trays for more than just baking. The handy, individual compartments make them ideal for many alternative uses around your home.

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Fresh and fluffy towels? Yes please!

Remember those soft, fluffy towels that felt like you were wrapping yourself in a cloud? Now they’re more like a hug from a giant piece of sandpaper. Here’s how to turn back the clock and keep them as fresh as a daisy.

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Where do germs love to lurk?

When it comes to keeping our homes clean, some of the germiest spots are often the ones we least suspect! Here are a few of the worst culprits.

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Food safety tips when the power goes out

Unplanned power outages can be a pain, but besides not being able to binge your favourite show – what about all the food in your fridge and freezer?

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Make cleaning fun with DIY cleaning slime!

If you’ve ever struggled to clean the cup holder in your car, or those tricky corners in your home – have we got the solution for you!

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12 lesser-known uses for hair conditioner!

If you’ve gone a bit overboard bulk buying hair conditioner, if you’ve changed brands, or if it’s simply past its use-by date, here are some things you can use it for instead.

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8 things you should never put in your dishwasher

These days most homes have a dishwasher and it's tempting to shove everything in it just to save time. But there are some things that don't belong in a dishwasher and could come out a bit the worse for wear or completely ruined!

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Things you should never clean with vinegar

While white vinegar is recommended for a whole host of cleaning tasks, there are some items that should steer clear of this magical liquid. Here’s how to avoid some disastrous damage!

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7 pesky clothes stains and how to remove them

Accidents and spills will happen - usually when you've just put on a newly washed and ironed white shirt! But don't despair - here are some handy hints to remove those stains before they become permanent.

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How long does food last in the fridge? Glad you asked!

Here are some popular foods and how long they’ll stay fresh in your fridge (as long as they are stored correctly, and your fridge is working efficiently!).

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10 clever uses for pool noodles (no pool required!)

Pool noodles are great fun for splashing around on a sunny day. But you don't need a pool to get some great use out of a pool noodle!

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Things to keep out of your tumble dryer!

A tumble dryer is an extremely handy appliance for lots of clothes, but there some things to keep away to avoid an ‘oops’ moment!

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Banish bad smells from your home!

Some smells are good (think baking bread or fresh coffee); some, not so much (think smelly socks and wet dog!). Here are some helpful tips to get rid of the not-so-good smells around your home.

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Stop your fitted sheet from slipping off your mattress!

Say goodbye to nightly fitted sheet struggles with these handy ideas for keeping them on your mattress! Happy snoozing!

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How to look after stainless steel pans

Stainless steel pans are tough and reliable, but they also deserve a bit of TLC to keep them shining and performing their best. Here's how to look after your kitchen besties so they last a lifetime.

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How long does food stay fresh in the freezer?

Freezers are brilliant. Pop just about anything in there and it’ll last forever, right? Not exactly. Freezing can preserve the freshness of your food, but after a certain length of time, quality will start to decline. Here are some guidelines for different types of food.

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How to stop moths making a meal of your clothes

How annoying is it when you pull out your favourite jumper – only to discover holes because moths have been having a bit of a buffet in your wardrobe (the answer is ‘very’!). Here are a few ways to stop it happening.

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How to look after cast iron pans so they last a lifetime!

Cast iron pans are like the superheroes of the kitchen—they're durable, versatile, and can handle just about anything you throw at them. But just like any superhero, they have a nemesis – rust! But all they need is a bit of TLC to keep them in tip-top shape. Here’s how to look after them.

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2 different ways to a perfect boiled egg

You’d think boiling an egg would be the easiest thing and impossible to get wrong, right? Not so much! There’s a fine line between runny and soft boiled, and hard boiled and rubbery.

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4 signs you need to go towel shopping!

We’re not talking about massive holes and fraying on your towels (which are the more obvious signs!); we’re talking about signs that are a bit more subtle!

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Which type of pasta for which type of sauce?

Did you know there are over 300 different pastas available these days? No wonder it can be a bit confusing about which to use when cooking. Here are some of the most successful pasta pairings!

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The best way to wash (and dry) woollens in winter

Winter is the perfect time to snuggle up in your favourite jumper – but they may need gentle handling to hold on to their softness and shape. Here are some tips on how to wash and dry woollens during the wet winter months.

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15 clever ways to reuse rubber bands

Do you save those little rubber bands that hold veggies (such as asparagus or spring onions) and flowers together? If you have a collection, here are a few things you can do to put them to good use.

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Different uses for soda water (apart from drinking)

Did you know that soda water has soooo many uses above and beyond drinking it? Here are some cool ways you can use it:

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Versatile lemons – not just for making lemonade or putting in your gin & tonic!

There are only so many lemons you can use if you have your own lemon tree, so why not give some of these handy tips a try.

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How to clean wooden spoons

If you’re a fan of wooden spoons in the kitchen – here’s how to clean them so they don’t crack, split, or get mouldy!

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6 simple tips to improve your Wi-Fi

If your W-iFi is struggling to keep up and moving at the speed of a tortoise, there are a few things you can try to improve its performance.

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The difference between greaseproof paper, baking paper, and wax paper

Are you confused about the range of kitchen papers on offer? Well, you're not alone! These three types of paper may seem similar, but they do have different uses. Here’s what you need to know.

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How to store cheese

Whether you're a fan of sharp cheddar, creamy brie or absolutely everything cheesy, it's important to know how to store your cheese properly to keep it fresh and delicious.

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Don’t let a dirty iron ruin your clothes!

Ironing may not be the most exciting chore, but it's a necessary evil so you don’t look like you’ve slept in your clothes! Here’s how you can clean your iron to make sure it stays up to the job.

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How to choose the perfect potato! From mash to chips to potato bake

Do you know your Kipfler from your Royal Blue? What about your Nadine from your Carisma? Potatoes are one of the most versatile ingredients in our pantry but have you ever wondered which type of potato is best suited for each dish? Well, wonder no more!

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Which non-food items have ‘use-by’ dates?

Most people aren’t aware that non-food items also have an expiry date. Well, they do! These items range from makeup products to cleaning supplies, and it is important to know when they need to be replaced or disposed of.

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US to Australian - Recipe ingredients translated!

Have you ever found a recipe that you want to try, but are confused by the weird sounding ingredients? Don’t despair! We have a list of ‘translated’ foods from US to Australian (and they are quite normal!).

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10 ways to extend your mobile phone battery charge

There’s nothing more annoying than running out of phone battery. Especially when you want to check your messages or just spending some time chilling. But there are simple things you can do to make each battery charge last longer.

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How to buy the perfect watermelon, mango, and pineapple

Unless you have x-ray vision, it can be a bit tricky knowing which piece of fruit is going to be ripe and perfect to eat. Check for these giveaway signs.

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9 simple ways to store Christmas decorations

Rather than just shoving things into boxes when you pack up everything Christmas-related, use these simple tips to store your decorations and make next year so much easier.

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Air fryer tips and tricks

Air fryers have been the ‘must have’ kitchen item for a couple of years now so here are some handy tips and tricks to get the most from this popular appliance.

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Which rice should I use?

If you’ve ever had rice on your shopping list only to get to the supermarket to find 6 or 7 different types (and even different colours) – you’re not alone. Here’s a helpful list of what to buy depending on the dish you are creating.

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How to clean your wooden chopping boards

For many people wood is the material of choice for a chopping board, but it’s important to keep it clean. Most aren’t dishwasher safe, so here are four ways of giving them a thorough clean.

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Natural ways to keep the mozzies away

Sick of annoying pests in your outdoor entertaining area? (No, we’re not talking about your kids!). We’re talking mozzies. They may be small, but they have the potential to ruin your plans for outdoor entertaining. We’ve got some handy ways to keep them at bay (without using harsh chemicals).

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Don’t kill your compost!

Composting is the ultimate recycling activity. It reduces the food and garden waste that goes into landfill and can transform your garden with its nutrient boosting properties. Not all food waste is beneficial for your compost though, so here are some important things to avoid - and why.

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How to pack your suitcase to reduce wrinkling when travelling

You may love that silk dress or linen shirt, but if you squish them into your suitcase, they will be full of creases by the time you reach your destination.

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How to clean mould from outdoor furniture

We’re getting close to venturing back outside after a very wet winter. Unfortunately, moisture often equals mildew or mould, so your outdoor furniture may need a good clean before you use it again this spring.

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How to load your dishwasher for sparkling clean results

When it comes to loading the dishwasher there seems to be two types of people. Those who just throw things in willy-nilly and hope for the best – and those who rinse everything first and then place them carefully in designated areas. Well, we’ve found the most efficient way (and hopefully it will save arguments!)

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Brown sugars explained - which to use when cooking

You get sent to the supermarket to get to pick up some brown sugar, only to be confronted by a huge range which can be oh so confusing. Do you choose muscovado, which is brown, or bog-standard brown sugar (obviously also brown)?

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How to make cut flowers last longer

Whether they are a gift, or you are giving yourself a treat, here are some different ways to make your lovely bunch of cut flowers last a bit longer – and they’re all common household items.

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12 alternative uses for hand sanitiser

Admit it, we all bought too much, so if you have a cupboard full of hand sanitiser, you’re not alone! If you’re not going to get through it all before it expires, here are 12 other ways you can use it around your home.

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Butter and margarine - what’s the difference when cooking?

You’re having a cooking session and the recipe calls for butter … but you’ve run out. You do have a tub of margarine in the fridge, but will it make a difference to your final dish or not?

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Toothpaste – not just for brushing your teeth!

The same toothpaste that you use to clean your teeth can be used for different purposes. Here are 11 ways you can use it in and around your home.

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My cakes never rise! What am I doing wrong?

You’ve measured, mixed, and whisked, but still your cake comes out sunken in the middle or even looking more like a pancake. Don’t be sad! Read on.

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How to help your non-stick pans last longer

If you want your non-stick pans to last, it's important to take good care of them to prevent their surface from scratching, peeling, or warping. Here are a few tips to keep them turning from a ‘non-stick pan’, into just a ‘pan’.

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7 clever uses for shaving foam around the house

It’s cheap, readily available and is far more useful than just removing unwanted hair! Here’s how you can use shaving foam around your home.

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12 handy tips for packing a suitcase (just in case you’ve forgotten how!)

Because of COVID, we are all probably a bit rusty when it comes to travelling overseas! So, here are some useful packing tips now that we are free to come and go again!

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How to unshrink your clothes

We’ve all done it. Tossed an item of clothing into the wash without checking the label and it comes out a smaller version of what went in. But all is not lost. There is a way you can ‘unshrink’ some items of clothing.

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Keep your fridge crispy cool

A fridge is one appliance in your home that we tend to take for granted – but to keep it working efficiently and doing its job, there are a few things you should (and shouldn’t) do.

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Smelly shoes? How to keep them smelling fresh and clean

Your feet have around 250,000 sweat glands, so it’s no surprise they spring into action when you stuff your feet into shoes walk around all day. When your feet are confined to shoes, sweat and warmth create a breeding ground for bacteria (which causes the smell).

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Household items you might not know can be washed in your washing machine!

Are you making the most of your washing machine? It’s much more versatile than you may think. Here are some common household items you can throw in and let it do the work for you.

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No eggs for baking? Use these substitutes instead!

If you’re baking and have run out of eggs, try one of these substitutes instead. Some of the substitutes are also a great option if you are baking for someone who follows a vegan diet.

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9 signs you have evil weevils in your pantry!

Would you like weevils with that? Believe it or not you’ve probably eaten a few of these common pantry pests in the past - but don’t panic – they won’t harm you! Here are a few signs you should look out for.

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9 easy ways to make mask wearing more comfortable

Face masks can be a bit of a hassle, but they are sometimes necessary to protect ourselves and others. Try a few of these tips to make wearing them a bit comfier.

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How to cook the perfect pasta

Do you add oil to the water when cooking pasta? If you do, then stop; it’s a big no-no that would have Nonna tearing her hair out! Here’s what you should and shouldn’t be doing when it comes to this pantry favourite.

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Your dishwasher is not just for dishes!

Your dishwasher could well be one of the hardest working appliances in your home – but it can do so much more. Here are 8 things you could add to your next load.

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What to do with your Christmas leftovers

There’s something about Christmas that makes us all buy twice as much food as we normally would. But we can only eat so many ham or turkey sandwiches; so, what else can you do with all the Christmas leftovers?

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Laundry tip - Keep your whites, white!

Whatever your age or gender, there’s nothing nicer than putting on a crisp, white shirt, which will go with just about anything. That is until it becomes a dull, sad shade of grey from not being properly cared for. Here’s how to keep your whites, white and bright.

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Fast and fabulous cake decorating ideas for busy people

If you need a cake for a special occasion or a party but are a bit short of time, here are some quick and easy decorating ideas that will have your guests saying ‘WOW!’ (Shhhh – we won’t tell if you don’t!)

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8 uses for nail polish, apart from on your nails

If you’ve got lots of bottles of half used nail polish lying around the house, here are some great ideas to use it up, apart from putting it on your nails.

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Spring cleaning shortcuts

Although research says that spring cleaning is good for you, it doesn’t make it any more enjoyable for most people! So, here are some easy shortcuts to get great results with much less effort.

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How to avoid a baking flop

Ever had a massive baking fail even though you followed the recipe? Here are 8 mistakes you might be making, without even realising.

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Surprising ways to use hairspray (which don’t involve hair!)

‘Big hair’ may have gone out of fashion but there are still plenty of things you can do with the hair spray!

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How to avoid silly DIY injuries!

Ever bashed your thumb with a hammer while doing a bit of DIY? Well, these great tips will be perfect for you. Read on!

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Paper towels – not just useful for wiping up spills

Paper towel is very handy for wiping up spills, but it has other clever uses around the kitchen.

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8 clever uses for used tea bags and leaves

Almost everyone loves a cup of tea – including your skin and your garden! So, don’t throw away your used tea bags and leaves, put them to good use and try a few of these clever things instead.

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Baking soda, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda - what’s the difference?

They are essential when baking and one can even be very handy when cleaning your home. But what exactly is the difference between these three white powders? Read on and we’ll tell you.

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How to make simple DIY cleaners for your home

There is a massive range of house cleaning products available, but don’t be fooled into thinking you need a different product for every part of your home. Here are 3 recipes for cleaning products using simple and inexpensive ingredients.

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Pesky pests in your garden?

Pests in the garden are a natural part of the eco system, but this doesn’t help when they are chomping their way through all your lovingly tended garden beds. Here are 9 ways to get rid of them without using harsh chemicals.

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7 clever uses for tumble dryer sheets – outside of the laundry

Pop in a tumble dryer sheet when drying your washing on a rainy day and it will reduce static and leave your clothes feeling soft and fresh. But that’s not all they can do.

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10 time-saving lunchbox tricks

Mornings can be a bit of a rush in most households. So why not check out our handy tips on ways to make those lunchboxes easier to organise – whether you are going to work or school.

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5 things that don’t belong in your freezer

Freezers are great for extending the life of certain foods when we’ve over-shopped! There are lots of things you can freeze to use later, but here are 5 things that shouldn’t be in there.

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6 household items you should clean but probably don't

There are things we touch every day that should get cleaned on a regular basis but often get forgotten in our normal cleaning routine. Here are 6 items that may need some attention.

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5 ways to remove bathroom soap scum

You can’t avoid soap scum in your bathroom (unless you ban everyone from using soap and water – not advisable, especially with teenagers!). But here are 5 ways you can remove it using ingredients you may already have around your home.

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Help! My pot plants keep drying out! 6 easy ways to keep pot plants hydrated

Because of the small amount of soil in a pot compared to a garden bed, pot plants can sometimes dry out. Here's how to help them to survive hot weather.

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Don’t throw away those eggshells!

Eggs are extremely versatile – and so are their shells. Here are 4 helpful ways you can use them in the garden.

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7 sensational tennis ball tips

If you've got some tennis balls lying around the house, here are 6 unusual but useful ways to use them (and you won't need a tennis racquet!).

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How to avoid a blocked kitchen sink

We’ve all had a blocked sink at some stage. Here’s how to avoid another one.

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8 ways to help your clothes last longer

Looking after your clothes is good for your bank balance and the environment, so here are 8 ways to make them last.

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