Homes and Gardens

Many people start their day with the inviting and rich aroma of a freshly-brewed coffee.  What is the best method to dispose of the coffee grounds once you have drunk the coffee? Can I dispose of coffee grounds in the sink? It is a common misconception that you should pour them into the sink. Some even claim that this will …

Armen Adamjan, Creative Explained. Credit: Instagram@creative_explained Spring cleaning ideas that are eco-friendly to help you refresh your home. TikTok star Armen Adamjan, better known as ‘Creative Explained,’ has released many viral videos on how to clean smarter using natural ingredients you probably already have at home. Bicarbonate of soda, distilled white vinegar, and lemons are all natural cleaning ingredients that …

It can be difficult to choose a heating system, especially with the terms such as sealed boilers and condensing ones. Both types use gas but their operation and cost can be quite different. A sealed boiler uses a combustion chamber which is completely closed. It draws in outside air and releases waste gasses through a special pipe. The combustion process …

When it comes to the future of interior design, the word that springs to mind in 2025 is ‘smart’.  The technology has had an enormous impact on the living space, and it is expected to continue.  The integration of technology is predicted to become more fluid as the year progresses.  It is expected that technology will be seamlessly integrated with …

Even if you’re only going to be away for a little while, it would be wise to check around and unplug any items that are not in use. Some appliances, such as TVs and fridges, are safe to leave plugged in. However, other appliances can pose a danger if they’re left on standby. The accumulation of crumbs and oil inside …

Image: anela.k / Shutterstock.com. Garden Legends Could garden-gnomes be returning this summer? Experts believe it is possible, as gardening trends continue to change. Once considered tacky, gnomes – much like Marmite – have always sparked strong opinions, either you love them or hate them. In the 1960s gnomes were very popular. Although some consider them outdated, their roots are in …

 Image: FamVeld / Shutterstock.com. The addition of a wet room to a bathroom is a popular upgrade among those who want to create a spa feel in their home. This design is often seen in luxury hotels. It combines a freestanding bath and a shower into a single open tiled space with no raised base. The entire area is waterproofed …

Dining Harmony Dining chairs are a great way to add style and comfort to your dining table. But, it can raise the question of whether the legs should match the table legs. There is no rule that says the table and chairs must match. However, many interior designers believe they should complement one another rather than be identical. Use the …

Image: Andriiii / Shutterstock.com. A wooden spoon is an essential in every kitchen. It’s perfect for stirring up soups, sauces and cake batter. They can become dirtier, however, than metal or other plastic spoons over time because of the grain in wood. The TikTok users have started a trend to clean wooden spoons with boiling water. But boiling wooden spoons …

Solar panels should be cleaned once a year. However, cleaning them every 6 months is best. The frequency will depend on external factors. If you live near factories or roads, or in an area that is dusty, you will need to clean them more often. In dry climates dirt can easily accumulate, but rain will naturally keep the panels clean. …