Iconic design: Crosley Voyager CR8017B Portable Turntable, £99.99

If you’re dabbling with vinyl for the first time or simply enjoying rediscovering the classic analogue sound, Crosley’s Voyager makes a great entry-level option. The fruit of 100 years of rich audio history, record collectors love this model thanks to its vintage-style aesthetic and clean, feels-more-expensive sound. Spin 33 1/3, 45 or 78 RPM records – or connect with your other devices through Bluetooth – and ride the sound waves of a musical icon.

On a budget: Mixx Revival 55 Vinyl Record Player, £79

Offering a listening experience at a pocket-friendly price, this nostalgic design offers Bluetooth input and output, plus three vinyl speeds with pitch-control, and an auto-stop feature. The chic suitcase-style, available in a wide array of colours, make it a hit with trendy teens, and whether you’re savouring a classic record or belting out a curated digital playlist, this budget buy is very much one to consider.

For an upgrade: Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2, £599

If you are at the stage where you want to dip your toes into high-end vinyl playback, this giant of the audio world makes a savvy investment. The original model, Debut PRO, has been prised by music lovers across the globe since its introduction back in the late 1990s, and this new arrival, Debut Evo 2, draws from the same refined industrial design, but benefits from a range of updated technology, from a new improved cartridge and platter to updated tonearm and stronger chassis.

For beginners: House of Marley Rise Up Bluetooth Turntable with Built-In Stereo Speakers, £179.99

For pop pickers looking for an easy gateway into the joy of vinyl, this popular model is just the ticket. With built-in speakers and the option of using Bluetooth, it comes ready to play straight out of the box and gives high quality sound. Combining sustainable materials with a clean, contemporary design, Rise Up is ideal for anyone looking to build an enviable vinyl collection, without forking out too much cash.

For serious audiophiles: Technics SL-1300 G, £2,799.99

The post You spin me: five record players for old-school listening appeared first on Checklists.

If you’ve been craving some greenery, here are some basic steps to take to make sure the plant life in your home thrives.

Evaluate your space and time

You might have grand plans for your spaces, you might even have specific plants already picked out, but it will be all for naught unless you can fit it all in your space and make it look aesthetically pleasing in the end.

Therefore, the first thing you should do is evaluate the spaces you intend to incorporate plants into. Perhaps the most important factor to pay attention to is natural lighting. Plants need water and sunlight to thrive. If there isn’t enough sunlight, your plants will have trouble surviving.

Check which direction your windows face. If you have south-facing windows (and live in the northern hemisphere), you’re in luck! West-facing and east-facing windows are also good for many plants. North-facing windows don’t cut it for most greenery, so if you have only north-facing windows, you might have to resort to getting a grow light.

It’s not enough to just have south-facing windows. It’s also important to have an idea of the space you have near windows and how much time you have to tend to your little green friends. These factors should influence which plants you decide to purchase, as many plants require different things, and should be combined with others in ways that please the eye.

Maximise your space

Most people have limited space for plants. You simply can’t just buy every plant you see and hope to fit them all in your home while still leaving space to breathe. However, if you have evaluated your space effectively, you should be able to maximise it to create a lovely smorgasbord of greenery.

The first thing you should consider is what your goal is for each space. This encompasses colour, sizing, grouping, depth, and height, as well as considering your lighting limitations.

Then, consider whether you want plants to sit on the floor, on a bench or table, or perhaps even hang from the ceiling. Once you have an idea what you want to do with each space, consider grouping plants together that enjoy the same kinds of conditions. Also, figure out which kinds of plants will complement each other, and how you can set them up to accentuate their features and the dynamics of the room.

Choose the right plants

While you can find plants in a wide range of stores, there are certainly places to buy from that are better than others. The most important thing to look for when buying a plant is health, because your goal should always be to help it grow. In general, saturated and deep colour is a indicator of good health, as well as evidence of new growth, such as shoots or buds.

This is why ‘Mom and Pop’ nurseries are the best place to buy from. In general, they take amazing care of their plants and are knowledgeable about post-purchase care. They can also help you with advice on your general plan and help you tweak it to suit your needs.

There are also garden centres in most large hardware shops, however, the plants at these shops might not be as healthy, and you might have trouble finding advice about your purchases.

Lately, there has been a trend towards purchasing plants or seeds online. But with a certified minefield of online plant retailers cropping up over the last decade, it’s best to play it safe and choose to get your plants from reputable companies that grow their own. The benefit of ordering online is that you have a wider variety of options and can find some real rare stunners, which helps if you already know exactly what you’re looking for. But keep in mind that, in general, the plants you buy online will be smaller and could take a while to be delivered.

Think outside the pot

Who says you have to pot plants in plain ceramic or terracotta? There are so many fun and unique ways to display your little green friends these days, so let your imagination run wild!

If you need some inspiration, there are many tried and true options that you can bring home. Something as simple as a ceramic pot with a unique design can really make a display pop. Terrariums can also bring a nice focal point to an otherwise dull room. Hanging pots are certainly trendy lately, and they can help maximise your space if you’re limited. Bird cages fit this mould effectively as well. The options at your disposal are virtually endless; if it can hold soil, it can probably host a little greenery. Don’t forget air plants as well.

One of the more interesting trends gaining popularity lately are living walls. Living walls can be a bit tricky to get going, but once they are thriving, they’re some of the boldest and most immersive ways to display plants in your home. There are a number of ways to take them a step further, for example, you could surround yours with a picture frame.

Monitor progress and be flexible

It’s almost guaranteed that you will encounter some issues with certain plants in your collection, if not most. Whether bugs have started attacking the leaves, diseases are latching on, or the leaves are simply starting to brown, there are usually simple solutions to common problems – if you act quickly.

Even better than swift action is thinking proactively about plant health. There are many ways to prevent these issues from arising in the first place. Insecticides are regularly recommended as a preventative measure to reduce the incidence of unwanted pests. Wiping dust off of leaves regularly can help prevent mould from growing. Keeping plants at optimal moisture levels according to their needs can help keep them green and happy.

But if issues occur, and they will, do your best to be flexible with your goals. You cannot force growth or health, so be patient with your green buddies and try them in different spots or different pots if they seem unhappy – as well as different watering techniques and fertilisers.

Not everyone can have the greenest of thumbs, but there are many easy steps to follow to do your best to create thriving plant life. Enjoy building your own little indoor sanctuary!

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging, please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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We all want to clean safely and sustainably around the home, in ways that are not only effective but that will also have minimal impact on the environment. Whether it’s by buying the most eco-friendly cleaning products, or using clever, homespun eco-friendly cleaning techniques. If you have children, health conditions or even sensitive pets in the house, then this can also be a strong driver to make your home cleaner and greener.

Here we spoke to three experts in the field of greener cleaning, for their top tips.

Helen Bee, founder of the multi-award-winning, planet friendly and refillable cleaning brand, Clean Living, says: “Skip chemical scents. Air fresheners might smell pleasant, but they’re incredibly harmful to both the environment and to us. Particularly if you suffer from asthma! There are lots of alternative ways to freshen up the air in your home; add some air purifying plants, dot scented pouches of lavender around, or diffuse essential oils instead.”

Von Sy, founder of plant-based cleaning brand Nimble, agrees: “One thing to be wary of is fragrances. Although they make the cleaning up chore more pleasant with the smell of flowers, citrus, and lavender, fragrances are made with a complex range of chemicals. And don’t be deceived by clever branding – just because a bottle has an ‘eco’ look and feel, make sure you read the label for the detailed ingredients.”

And it’s these ingredients, from the chemicals in the products to the plastic packaging containing them, that cause even greater harm to the environment.

Managing director of Ecovibe, a dedicated eco-friendly products retailer, Stacey Skidmore, says: “Minimise plastic where you can, this can be through using refillable glass spray bottles in place of the traditional single-use plastic bottles, or even using soluble cleaning sachets, which dissolve in water. Also, avoid toxic chemicals where you can. A common myth is the stronger the chemical, the more effective the product will be. However, natural ingredients, such as essential oils and plant extracts work just as well alongside certain antibacterial agents.”

Von Sy adds: “Most of the mainstream cleaning products are over-formulated which means they contain unnecessary levels of chemicals that can be harmful to a young child and the environment. Manufacturers do this so they can make bold marketing claims like they are ‘10 times more powerful’, so with this in mind one thing you can do is dilute the regular cleaning products you use – they are just as effective but reduce the amount of chemicals you are using.”

So, whatever practical steps you take to cleaning greener, there’s one that will make a huge difference overall, and that lies in your consumer purchasing power – all of us should take the time to purchase more thoughtfully.
Helen Bee says: “A more sustainable lifestyle starts by making considered purchases. Before you purchase any product, ask yourself if you really need it. Or whether you can buy a more planet-friendly alternative. There are incredible brands out there offering eco-friendly alternatives. Just read labels carefully to ensure products really are as good as they claim to be.”

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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When it comes to the mysteries of the recycling bin, there can often be some confusion as to what goes in, and where. How clean do the bottles need to be? Can I recycle this pizza box? What symbols do I need to look out for?

Recycling practices change from borough to borough, based on council facilities or even which companies services are contracted out to – so what are the general dos and don’ts of recycling and how can you maximise your efforts?

Where possible, sort your recycling by type

Sort your recyclable materials by the following types: glass, aluminum and plastic together, mixed paper, cardboard, and compost separately.

By separating your recycling it ensures your rubbish stays ‘clean’ during transport to the recycling depot, which makes the processing easier and more efficient. Separating your recycling leads to higher recycling rates and significant cost savings.

While throwing everything into one bin is the simple option, sorting by type retains the value of the materials as much as possible, reduces cross-contamination and significantly increases your recycling rate.

Clean food containers, bottles and packaging

Although time-consuming, any plastic, metal and glass materials containing foodstuffs must be completely emptied and fully rinsed clean before going into your recycling bin.

Do not recycle any materials that have food or drink contamination because they will soil the whole load and that means the potentially recyclable materials will be made useless and end up in landfills. And do not recycle greasy pizza boxes!

Any cardboard or paper contaminated by foodstuffs – grease, oil or otherwise – cannot be recycled because the oils cannot be separated from the fibres. Never recycle fibrous materials that have been soiled in this way.

Plastic bottle tops

Probably one you hadn’t thought about – plastic bottle tops can throw a spanner in the works.

Although on the whole, most plastic bottle caps can be accepted by your recycling centre, it is dependent on your local facilities. In some areas you can keep them on, and some require you to remove them all together and place into the normal bin.

The important thing to do is to check with your local recycling centre beforehand. You can easily check on your local council’s website.

Don’t recycle plastic shopping bags

Plastic shopping bags are generally made from thin plastics, which can clog up processing equipment at the recycling centre. Plastic shopping bags require special recycling facilities.

Most supermarkets or food shops will collect and properly recycle your plastic bags for you. Instead of using plastic shopping bags, reusable bags made from recycled materials or from natural fibres are a much better alternative.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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Houseplants can reduce pollutants in the air by absorbing them and then converting them to food.

Unfortunately, most indoor spaces do suffer air pollution, often due to paints used in decorating; detergent and other cleaning products, smoking and furnishings.

So adding foliage to your living space can work wonders – and not just aesthetically.

BBC Gardener’s World presenter and Stannah’s gardening expert Mark Lane says that placing certain types of plants in different rooms can impact wellbeing in many ways.

“Looking and caring for greenery helps to protect against mood disorders, depression, neurotic behaviour and such stress-related issues,” he said.

“It’s therefore important to seek green sanctuaries outdoors — like parks — and also bring the outside into your home.”

Other benefits of houseplants Mark points to are a reduction in symptoms such as headaches; sore eyes; loss of concentration and feelings of depression.

The University of Sydney even produced a report which found houseplants contributed to a 37 per cent reduction in tension and anxiety; 58 per cent drop in depression and a four per cent decrease in anger and hostility.

They also provide a much-needed link to earth and nature – particularly for those in densely packed urban housing.

With more and more of us living in cities and in smaller spaces with less outdoor space, it makes sense to grow what you can –  not just indoors, but on windowsills, balconies and porches too – whatever space you have available to you!

Aloe vera

One plant lots of experts agree on the benefits of, this succulent is great for bedrooms and kitchens.

Also known as aloe barbaensis miller, it purifies the air while being a calming aid to sleep.

The gel inside its leaves is famously used for soothing burns, but it’s more than just a green first aid kit, according to Patch Plants.

It removes pollutants such as carbon dioxide from the air and continuously releases oxygen throughout the night.

These plants like a lot of light and not too much water, but will benefit from a liquid fertiliser in spring and summer.

Make sure to use one made specifically for succulents and cacti.

Peace lily

This beauty can improve air quality by up to 60 per cent!

Jo Lambell, founder of beardsanddaisies.co.uk, is a fan.

“Stunning in looks and serene in spirit, the peace lily is a great all-rounder,” she said.

“You’d be forgiven for thinking it may be difficult to care for judging by its beautiful appearance, however it is very low maintenance and also a fantastic air purifier.”

Mark recommends this one for bathrooms, in particular.

“It helps reduce the levels of mould spores that grow in the home by absorbing these through its leaves, then circulating them to the plant’s roots where they are used as food,” he added.

“The peace lily can help to keep shower tiles and curtains free from mildew and the plant can absorb harmful vapours from alcohol and acetone.”

Confusingly, despite their name, peace lilies, or spathiphyllum, are in fact part of the Araceae family of plants.

Snake plant

The name may scare some, but the sanservieria trifasciata is apparently one of the highest oxygen-producing plants in the world.

They are also a great introduction to indoor gardening for beginners – they are easy to care for, very hard to kill and barely even need watering in winter.

Currently on trend – as seen in many a social media influencer’s background – they also look great in modern or retro-styled interiors.

They are best placed in partial sun.

Spider plant

Another one with a name to give you the creeps, spiders plants – or chlorophytum comosum, if you’re squeamish – are also great for beginners.

They are low maintenance and easy to care for and, it is believed, in just two days they can remove up to 95 per cent of harmful toxins in the home, including potentially cancer-causing chemical formaldehyde.

Georgie Matthews, of greenhousesdirect.co.uk, points out they are great for smaller spaces, as their cascading long leaves mean they take up vertical space, rather than horizontal.

They are also considered the best indoor plant for those with asthma, due to their high toxin-absorption rate.

Areca palm

Visually stunning while stunningly beneficial, dypsis lutescens is an effective humidifier for damp rooms.

They remove dust, mould spores, bacteria and allergens from the surrounding atmosphere.

Its leaves produce negative ions, much like many air-purifying machines do.

Negative ions are credited with increasing psychological health, productivity and overall wellbeing.

For best results, aim for four shoulder-high plants per person.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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From the paint on your walls to the speakers in your lounge, there are so many amazing sustainable items we can choose to spruce up our homes.

1. Lick Home

Lick is a home decor brand that launched on the day that the UK was put into lockdown. The brand believes that a simple change in design can have a massive impact on the way we feel about the spaces we spend our lives in. 

The brand aims to replace the stresses of the outdated decorating industry with a simplified journey and customer-centric experience, powered by real conversation. 

All products have been created with the modern lifestyle in mind. From the durable and eco-friendly paints, artisanal wallpaper to the high-quality decorating tools and true-to-colour stick-on samples, all delivered direct to consumers doors. Lick is making it easier to decorate than ever before. 

Find out more: Lick Home 

2. DreamCloud

The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Mattress is a market-first luxury boxed mattress. Its structure means that it combines contouring support memory foam with the latest innovation in pocket spring design.

Designed with sleep in mind, its five-layer British production includes handcrafted details. The Luxurious Quilted Cooling cover integrates cooling technology with its layers of memory foam. ActivEdge™ coils minimise motion transfer during sleep and the supportive foam keeps the body rested.

Every DreamCloud mattress is climate neutral thanks to its offset programme and all foams are certiPUR certified, which means all materials are created without harmful chemicals.

Find out more: DreamCloud

3. Blueair

Blueair’s air purifier reduces the level of air pollution in your home and is made of completely recyclable materials. Air pollution is the single biggest environmental threat to human health, and to the health of our planet.

Indoor air pollution can be up to five times higher than outside and since we spend around 90% of our time indoors, it’s important to invest in an air purifier to ensure you are breathing the cleanest air possible.

Air purifiers are engineered to provide years of service. That’s why the housing is made from durable, galvanised steel, rather than petroleum-based plastic.

Filters are made from recyclable polypropylene which naturally breaks down, returning to its original carbon dioxide and water ingredients. Any appliance that can achieve high efficiency with lower power use helps reduce our overall consumption of fossil fuels.

Find out more: Blueair

4. BeeBAGZ

These beeswax food storage bags from Canadian brand BeeBAGZ are plastic-free and made from all-natural products: 100% cotton, beeswax, tree resin and jojoba oil.

By combining 100% cotton, a double-stitched seam (patent pending) and the beeswax, the bags are naturally breathable and help keep your food fresher for longer.

They have a self-sealing water-resistant closure. Simply add the contents, fold over the top and run your fingers along it to close. There is no need to use soap to clean as beeswax is naturally self-preserving and it is also effective at repelling smells and odours like onions.

A smarter, safer and convenient option for storage. Perfect for fruits, veggies, sandwiches and other snacks.

Find out more: A Little Find

5. Natusan Cat Litter

With sustainability at its heart, this eco-friendly feline litter firm provides 100% natural, biodegradable and compostable clumping cat litter.

Natusan are providers of the UK’s first zero-waste circular economy litter service; a unique tree planting programme which offers a delivery and collection subscription service that recycles and composts soiled litter, turning it into agricultural fertiliser.

Natusan then work with partners to plant a tree right here in the UK with every purchase.

Find out more: Natusan.

6. Silestone® by Cosentino

Silestone® by Cosentino, the leading global hybrid mineral surface for the world of architecture and design, is proud to introduce Sunlit Days.

Sunlit Days is the first carbon-neutral collection in the quartz surfaces and engineered stone market.

Demonstrating the brand’s commitment to sustainability, Cosentino is dedicated to offsetting the CO2 emissions of the entire life cycle of the Silestone® Sunlit Days series.

Cosentino’s production process is an environmental success story, since it is carried out using 99% recycled water and 100% renewable electric energy, as well as reused raw materials.

Find out more: Cosentino

7. Organically Epic

With climate change and waste reduction being at the forefront of our thinking, Organically Epic’s Sonic Wave Electric Bamboo Toothbrush is set to cause a stir in the dental and beauty industry. With its innovative and sleek design, this sustainable electric toothbrush will keep consumers happy with its eco-friendly credentials.

The heads are made of FSC Certified Bamboo and the bristles are made with Japanese Binchotan white charcoal known for its detoxifying and breath deodorising properties. The handle is made of recyclable plastic with an electronic inner.

Find out more: Organically Epic.

8. The House of Marley

These speakers automatically sync together as soon as you switch them on. One is a permanent plug-in home wired speaker and the other is rechargeable for life on the go, with 20 hours of playback and USB-C charging.

The House of Marley is a sustainable audio brand founded in collaboration with Bob Marley’s children. All House of Marley products are consciously crafted from mindfully sourced materials including FSC certified woods, bamboo, consciously harvested cork, REGRIND™ silicone and Marley’s own signature blend of REWIND™ up-cycled fabrics.

House of Marley is also helping to spread awareness of global reforestation needs via Project Marley. This charitable initiative contributes to the planting of trees through non-profit organisation, One Tree Planted. As a result, over 242,000 trees have already been planted.

Project Marley also supports ocean preservation through its collaboration with The Surfrider Foundation, to aid with maintaining their global mission to protect the world’s oceans and beaches.

Find out more: The House of Marley

9. Weaver Green

With over 35 billion plastic bottles finding their way into our seas each year and over 90% of all marine birds having plastic deposits in their stomachs, it’s important to look at creative and useful ways of turning recycled plastic into beautiful additions to our everyday lives. 

Weaver Green’s range of environmentally-friendly, recycled rugs look and feel just like wool, but contain up to 3000 salvaged plastic bottles each. All of their products are made in exactly the same way, so everything they sell prevents single-use plastic bottles from ending up in the ground or floating in the ocean. 

All accessories have been made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and are stain and water-resistant, extremely durable, and are machine washable.

Find out more: Weaver Green

10. Fire Dragon Fuel

Fire Dragon Fuel offers non-toxic firelighters – perfect for summer BBQs. No toxic fumes, no damage to the ozone layer and no problems lighting up.

The eco-friendly firelighter is made from rotten vegetable mass. HRH Prince Charles called it “remarkable” on his visit to the Welsh company BCB International.

It’s a one-of-a-kind eco-friendly firelighter initially created for the military because of its sustainability (no trees were harmed in its making) but also, due to its performance lighting instantly in all weathers without any harmful chemicals.

Available in cubes, bottles of gel, and liquid – fuss and mess-free with no lingering smell, smoke or soot or taste. Good for campfires, BBQ’s and pizza ovens.

Find out more: Fire Dragon Fuel

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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Has vaccinating the country given us our freedom back?

Do you remember the days when we were begging the media to talk about something – anything – other than Brexit? There can’t be many of us now, who wouldn’t give a bumper pack of face masks to return to the naïve exasperations of picking a side in the case of Boris vs Barnier.

Desperate to move on from the bereavements, traumas and sacrifices of coronavirus, into a happier summer of freedom and hope for better things to come, our government promised a return to ‘normal’ on 19 July. Yet, as the much-touted Freedom Day edged closer, doubts and anxieties about the wisdom of easing restrictions clouded that cautious optimism. Did we dare to hope that our brave new world might be within touching distance, or was it reckless irresponsibility to even consider throwing our facemasks and hand sanitiser to the winds?

Boris’ Churchill moment stolen by the ‘Pingdemic’

As Freedom Day dawned and Boris was denied his Churchillian moment, holed up in his bunker of self-isolation after shooting his own PR in the foot, it’s reasonable to imagine that the speech, now playing only inside his own head, might have undergone a re-write or two. Who knows what words he’d have borrowed from his hero? Perhaps: “If you’re going through hell, keep going.” Or possibly, “Everyone has his day, and some days last longer than others.” Some of Boris’s days recently must have seemed pretty interminable.

Now that the dust has had a chance to settle, what does Life after Lockdown look like in reality? Have we really been released? Should we even be released? Amid desperate pleas from exhausted NHS staff, who surely are placed to know the answer to these questions better than anyone, many of us believe that restrictions were lifted far too early and feel safer continuing to behave as if lockdown has not been lifted.

Perhaps Boris had planned to use one of our wartime prime minister’s most famous lines in his speech and if he hadn’t, he certainly should have: “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few” perfectly describes our debt to the remarkable army of over-worked, underpaid and in many cases, emotionally traumatised, individuals that make up NHS Team UK.

We can never adequately thank this formidable and selfless army, but we should never stop trying. And amid the absurd weight of expectation that is daily fulfilled by this skilled and compassionate staff, a vaccine rollout has been undertaken, whose success is unrivalled by any comparable undertaking in history.

Vaccines, antibodies and herd immunity

Herd immunity is an inexact science. Calculations for the level of population protection required to reach herd immunity, vary between around 80 and close to 100 per cent.

At the time of writing, 70% of the adult population has had both doses of a vaccine. Based on available government data that over-18s make up 79% of the population, around 55.7% of the entire UK population is currently double vaccinated. (This calculation discounts the small number of under-18s who have been double-vaccinated, for which no figure is available.)

Approximately 14% of the entire UK population has had a single dose. Both these figures are rising, but there is of course no way of knowing for how long and where they will level off. Booster planning is now underway, projected to begin in September this year and there’s no doubt that science is hot on the heels of emerging variants.

A considerable proportion of the population has also previously been infected with coronavirus. A UK Coronavirus Survey, produced in partnership with the Universities of Oxford and Manchester, Public Health England and the Wellcome Trust, on 21 July 2021, estimates that around 9 in 10 UK adults would have tested positive for Covid antibodies in the last week – whether as a result of vaccination or past infection.

Although we do not yet know whether the recent decline in cases is set to be a reliable trend, these figures might suggest some level of herd immunity is contributing to the decline. We should also consider that even with immunity levels below those required for herd immunity, the more we slow the spread, the easier it becomes to control the virus though ongoing and proven public health measures. We might feel as though not much changed since 19 July, but there are at least glimmers of hope that, while the road ahead will be bumpy, it might be easier than the rollercoaster behind us.

Relentless news coverage means we’re constantly reminded of the spectre of the virus and there’s a lot of residual caution remaining: since 19 July, social contact levels have remained at two-thirds of the pre-pandemic figure of 10 contacts per day. Out and about, you’re unlikely to have noticed a significant drop in numbers of mask-wearers and people are still conspicuously distancing from each other in queues and on public transport. What should the new world order look like? Vaccine passports went from a controversial possibility to all but essential for travel and soon-to-be mandatory for anyone wishing to set foot in a nightclub and probably football stadia, other entertainment venues, university lectures and certain professions. Like Brexit, very few people are ambivalent and are likely to come down hard either for vaccine passports or against them.

Whatever your view, it might not be the same as it was two months ago when Freedom Day first became a probability. If we have learned anything from events of the past 18 months, it’s that the only thing we can predict is that the future is unpredictable. Perhaps Churchill really did sum it up best after all, “It is a mistake to try to look too far ahead. The chain of destiny can only be grasped one link at a time.”

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Opinion: What does life after lockdown look like in reality? appeared first on Checklists.

Silvers and greys are slowly being replaced by golds and richer hues around the home, with this stunning mirror from Wilko the perfect example. With its distinguished, distressed gold-effect frame comprised of two layers of iron cups, it’ll create a focal point within any room. The surface has a hammered finish which adds to the texture and style of the piece, shimmering in the light for a truly luxurious look.

Find out more at wilko.com

2. Arran After The Rain Diffuser

The smell of your home is so important when it comes to making the right impression: no-one wants to be invited in to the scent of pets and other off-putting odours. After the Rain is Arran Sense of Scotland’s signature soothing scent. A fresh blend of rose petals, musk and floral citrus combined with the notes of Arran’s precious woods, this fragrance is inspired by the scent of a garden after a rain shower. Rose and sandalwood essential oils are also known for their soothing and stress-relieving properties – so why not update your home scent with this invigorating reed diffuser?

Find out more at arran.com

3. Winon Percale Duver Cover Set

Add a sense of real luxury to your boudoir with a rich-looking bedding set that you can’t wait to jump in to come bedtime. This Art Deco-inspired geometric jacquard duvet cover can be layered up with a co-ordinating boudoir cushions and a quilted throwover for the full luxurious effect. This beautiful bedding creates a modern look with a subtle metallic tonal thread running throughout.

Find out more at wayfair.co.uk

4. Always Sunday Blue Crystal Candle Holder

Everyone needs candles around the home for some much-needed ambient lighting. This blue candle holder is part of Always Sunday Store’s divine crystal collection, and will make a statement in any setting. Its shocking cobalt blue colour alongside the edgy geometric base is reminiscent of a children’s building block, bringing a sense of grown-up fun to your next social gathering. The bold piece is made all the more powerful by its piercing clarity and pure blue colour, and is perfect for dining tables and sideboards alike.

Find out more at alwayssunday.store

5. Matalan Abstract Circle Wall Art

Looking for something to add a splash of colour to an otherwise plain wall? This colourful but bargain-priced piece of art features a circular abstract print and comes presented in a gold-coloured frame that will beautifully complement any minimalist interior. Why not match it with other accessories from Matalan’s Scandi-inspired Copenhagen collection?

Find out more at matalan.co.uk

6. Sarah Jane Hemsley Waverley Cushion

Sail into summer with a Waverley print cushion from The Bulloch Collection by Sarah Jane Hemsley. Taking original artwork by Isle of Bute artist Lyn Bulloch, Sarah Jane has created a range of mid-century-feel fabrics and homewares which capture the spirit of the iconic steamer Waverley on the Firth of Clyde, with its distinctive red funnels reflected in its wake. The last ocean-going paddle steamer in the world, a donation of 10% from all Waverley sales go to the Waverley Steam Navigation Co Ltd, towards ongoing maintenance to ensure future generations can continue to experience the magic of PS Waverley.

Find out more at sjhupholstery.com

7. Amara Newgate Skyscraper Alarm Clock

Bring a touch of Art Deco glam to your bedside table with this Newgate Clocks. Designed with a silent-sweep movement, it allows the hands to move in a constant motion and eliminates the usual ticking noise that can sometimes be a pain. In a choice of Moonstone Grey, Black or Linen Grey, its luxe gold coloured finish on all gives you a seriously stylish bedside companion to be woken to each morning.

Find out more at amara.com

8. Viners Titan Knife Block

Guaranteed to add a lustrous statement to any kitchen, this knife block has been crafted from the best quality materials to withstand regular use. The set features five high-quality knives with sharp, stainless steel blades in on-trend colours of gold and copper. With its stylish magnetic matt black block, this set is a real head-turner to accessorise any kitchen – plus it even comes with a 10 year guarantee.

Find out more at viners.co.uk

9. Getting Personal Doormat

Whether you’re welcoming your guests to the ‘Mad House’ or the ‘Prosecco Palace’, this personalised outdoor doormat is a fabulous way to spruce up your own doorstep. Simply add your name or phrase and with Getting Personal’s unique preview functionality, you can see what your doormat will look like before ordering! Designed to withstand weather wear, the doormat is also backed from recycled car tyre, making it super-durable all year round.

Find out more at gettingpersonal.co.uk

10. Inspirational Women of the World Babushka Nesting Dolls

Add some culture to any room with these beautiful Inspirational Women of the World Nesting Dolls. Depicting Frida Kahlo, Princess Di, Mother Theresa, Marie Curie and Aretha Franklin, they’re made from wood and are hand-painted with non-toxic, eco-friendly paints. Intended as decorative additions to your interior design, they’re the perfect way to get familiar with these amazing women. Your whole family will be reading through the included book, learning history, too.

Find out more at marmaladelion.co.uk

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Top 10 homeware and accessories buys to transform your home without you having to fork out a fortune appeared first on Checklists.

According to Google trends, there was a 59% and 21% increase in search volumes for house DIY during the first and second lockdowns. What’s more, it’s reported that 61% of homeowners have carried out a DIY project during lockdown and with a lack of knowledge, failed reparations could be monetarily devastating.

HomeHow.co.uk asked 3,142 households what projects they’d undertaken, and with the consultation of construction experts, KielMur Construction, they discovered just how much dodgy DIY jobs could cost homeowners…

The DIY attempt: Knocking down a wall

The potential repair cost: £20,000

The priciest DIY job to rectify is knocking down a wall. DIYers should always call in an expert to determine whether the wall they intend to knock down is structural. This issue could cost homeowners well over £20,000 for a professional to sort out due to the possibility of the house collapsing.

The DIY attempt: Fixing electrical wiring

The potential repair cost: £2,000

The second most costly DIY job to fix is electrical wiring, which could cost more than £2,000 to rewire – in addition to being extremely dangerous. If this job is done to an inadequate standard, an electrician may have to be called out to rewire the entire house system. Examples of poor wiring include frayed wires, loose connections and excessive heat.

The DIY attempt: Fitting flooring

The potential repair cost: £1,200

Fitting flooring isn’t as easy as it looks and if done incorrectly, it may cost around £1,200 to refit. Floor surfaces can look rough and uneven when materials like nails and glue are left behind, which also decreases its longevity.

The DIY attempt: Fixing a radiator

The potential repair cost: £450

Experts at MyJobQuote.co.uk discovered that a staggering 35% of heat in the home is lost due to a lack of glazing on windows. A popular DIY project to maintain heat in the house is fixing a leaking radiator, but if done incorrectly a new unit may need to be replaced, which could cost around £450.

The DIY attempt: Painting a room

The potential repair cost: £450

Moreover, repainting where you’ve done a bad job has a hefty price of £450 per room. There are so many determinants to painting a room correctly and, with an untrained eye, these issues can be missed. This DIY project not only provides a visually appealing environment, but it also produces a shielding coat that will preserve an interior and exterior surface from weather damage and insects. 

The DIY attempt: Tiling walls

The potential repair cost: £450

Tied in fourth place with fixing a radiator and repainting is tiling walls. Cracked tiles are a common example of a poor finish, as well as bumpy grouting, and could cost homeowners £450 to fix. The expense covers new materials and labour charge, so it is best to get it right the first-time round! 

Something to think about

Even fixing a leaky toilet isn’t as easy as it sounds to some – with the potential of having to replace the mistakes you’ve made setting you back around £300.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Should you DIY if you don’t really have the experience? appeared first on Checklists.

With summer finally around the corner many will be turning to garden upgrades and makeovers as the weather improves and lockdown restrictions begin to ease. Hard and soft landscaping will add texture, character and structure to outside spaces, with rewards to be reaped by summer once the grounds are in full bloom.

There may however be instances in which landscaping projects don’t go to plan, leaving traders unable to reinstate gardens back to what they originally were. Consumers often expect a full refund if things go wrong, however what would be the ‘law of the land’ or a reasonable solution in these circumstances?

It’s not uncommon for garden remodelling projects to contain aspects of supply of goods, provision of services and a combination of both, overseen by a project manager. This can further be complicated if sub-contractors are used for different aspects of the work – for example, a specialist tree-surgeon might be required for preparatory works, while an electrician might be needed for lighting effects. Therefore, even without the unreliable nature of the weather, such projects can be notoriously difficult.

Supply of goods

A consumer’s rights in relation to goods are straightforward where goods are supplied in isolation, but this will rarely be the case in landscape gardening. That said, a free-standing outdoor piece of furniture (such as a bench) which does not conform to contract would be subject to a short-term right to reject, allowing customers to seek a full refund. Following expiry of that 30-day period, consumers may be entitled to either a repair or replacement. The trader has one opportunity to carry this out and if the matter is still not resolved, a full or partial refund may be awarded.

Supply of services

Where services are not carried out with reasonable care and skill within a reasonable time, consumers are entitled to a repeat performance at no extra cost. This must also be carried out within a reasonable time and without significant inconvenience to them, failing which they may be entitled to a price reduction which could be up to 100%.

Goods and services

But what about a scenario where a trader has carried out a design, lifted lawns and removed trees (service); supplied plants, or products such as weed control and furniture (goods), built a summer house (a combination of goods and services) and in doing so has literally changed the landscape, so that to put the outdoor area back in the condition before the work began would be very difficult?

In such cases customers may be able to treat this as a breach of requirement for services as well as for goods, and can therefore choose to use either the route of services remedies or goods remedies.

Practical advice

If the works specified originally become impossible, while a price reduction or full refund might be the legal remedy, the business could work with the customer to agree to a variation from the contract which would allow for the works to be completed, with whatever amendments are required to finish the job. Any such variations should be in writing; give the customer the option to walk away and ensure any price reduction is reflective of the revised specification.

At the outset of any project, having the right paperwork at the right time, is not only a legal requirement, but can also reduce complaints and aftercare issues. A checklist to ensure best practice etiquette and to evidence sign-offs can also be useful to have in advance. If a trader engages a sub-contractor, they are also responsible for their work being completed with reasonable care and skill and for any remedy arising if they are not.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Know your garden landscaping rights appeared first on Checklists.