The much-anticipated drop of the at-home soft serve machine of the summer is here. Yep, you can finally order the Ninja Swirl via John Lewis for £349.99 and have it arrive at your door (without paying a delivery free) on its launch date on the 25th of July.
With 13 total functions, as discussed in our first look at what the Swirl can do, I predict that this launch from Ninja is going to be a total sellout this summer. It’s already have rave reviews and attention in the US, going far further than the already viral Ninja Creami (which we loved in our five-star review) thanks to the soft serve dispenser element.
Here’s exactly where else you can pre-order the Swirl from if you can’t wait to secure it in your kitchen.
Ninja Swirl
With the Swirl, you also get two custom ice-cream tubs that attach onto the soft serve dispenser.
Though you’ll have to wait until the official launch date on Friday, 25th of July to actually try it out, if you want to secure your Swirl ahead of time now is the time to act.
There are different perks to shopping through various retailers with the Swirl. John Lewis are offering free delivery (which would usually set you back £7.95), as well as AO and Currys.
(Image credit: Ninja)
The RRP for the Swirl is set at £349.99 via these retailers, though it hasn’t gone live via Ninja yet, so you’ll need to wait if you want to buy directly there.
Living in the city often means sacrificing sprawling gardens for compact corners – but that doesn’t mean your outdoor space can’t shine. Even the smallest courtyard can be turned into a serene, stylish retreat with the right design approach. Whether you’re working with a narrow alleyway, an awkwardly shaped nook, or a bare concrete square, there’s plenty of potential waiting to be unlocked.
Too often, these areas are left underused, maybe just a lonely bench or a tangle of pots gathering dust. But with a few clever upgrades and a bit of imagination, you can breathe new life into your courtyard, creating a private oasis that feels like an escape from the urban hustle. In this article, we’ll share practical and modern ideas to help you reimagine your urban courtyard – whatever its size or shape – and make it a place you’ll want to spend time in year-round.
First Things First: The Flooring
Upgrading your urban courtyard means making it a safer, more functional, and comfortable space. So the first thing to do is decide what kind of flooring is suitable for your space, and for the concept you want or the look you want to achieve. It can be sleek and modern, clean and minimalist, or warm and cozy.
There are several options that can be ideal for small outdoor spaces:
Decking – If you want a modern look and a natural feel, wood decking would be a good choice. Composite decking, or a mix of wood fibers and plastic, is another option.
Gravel – If you have a limited budget but would like to create a rustic look and feel, gravel should be your top choice. This is ideal for homeowners looking for an easy-to-install option.
Stone tiles or pavers – This is a good choice if you want to create a contemporary feel. This flooring is easy to clean and maintain.
Artificial turf – Choose this option if you want to create a green, grassy courtyard look that doesn’t require a lot of work .
If you want a good quality and reliable low-maintenance alternative to grass, explore the many options presented by the artificial turf selection from Synthetic Grass Warehouse. Artificial turfs are a practical solution for creating a clean and green courtyard finish without the need for regular upkeep.
You don’t need to stick to one material only; combining materials, such as stone paving and turf, is a great way of visually dividing the space into different zones.
Smart Planning and Purposeful Designing
To maximize the potential of your small space, smart planning is essential. Your courtyard has to be functional so every inch should be part of the plan. For example, you can designate an area for your herb garden or for a small outdoor table and chairs.
Here are some smart ideas:
Identify zones – Mark different areas with plants or planters, rugs, and chairs or other furniture. This will help identify the areas for dining, gardening, and lounging or sitting.
Vertical is good – Maximize your space by going vertical: add trellises or place hanging plants on fences and walls. Use wall-mounted shelves to add visual elements to the space.
Choose a colour scheme – Use a maximum of two or three colors to make the space more lively and refreshing to the eyes. This will make your courtyard more inviting. Don’t use too many colors as this might make your space look cluttered.
Make sure that the furniture for your courtyard is suitable for the space that you have, i.e. foldable chairs and slim benches. Using built-in chairs or benches is also a practical move since they can be used as storage while also saving space.
Go Green: Add Plants
You don’t need to be an expert gardener to bring a splash of nature into your courtyard. Adding greenery is one of the easiest and most transformative ways to breathe life into a small outdoor space. Whether it’s a cluster of potted herbs, a vertical garden climbing up the wall, or a few low-maintenance succulents in stylish planters, plants instantly soften hard surfaces and create a calming, organic feel.
Mix textures and heights to add visual interest – tall grasses, trailing vines, sculptural shrubs, or even a small tree in a container can make a big impact.
If you’re short on floor space, think vertically: wall planters, hanging baskets, and tiered plant stands can help maximise your green display without crowding the area. Even a few well-placed pots can make your courtyard feel lush, vibrant, and refreshingly alive.
Even artificial plants can look just as beautiful as their real counterparts, plus there’s no watering needed.
Proper Lighting
To make your courtyard warm and inviting, choose lighting that is suitable for your space. Lighting will also make your courtyard look bright. Likewise, good lighting is needed so the space can be used comfortably at night.
Use different types of outdoor lighting:
String lights – If you want a soft glow effect, use string lights. This outdoor lighting can also add charm and a litte drama to your urban courtyard..
Candles or lanterns – Turn your outdoor space into a cozy retreat by using candles or lanterns for lighting. Candles are also often used to create a romantic feel.
Solar lights – This is the practical and eco-friendly alternative.
Wall-mounted lights – If your outdoor space is very limited, choose this lighting type.
Consider layered lighting (ambient/task/accent) if you want to create depth and make your outdoor space feel larger.
Choose the Right Furniture
Courtyards with limited space need furniture that not only fits well but also helps create the illusion of a more open, airy environment. The key is to select pieces that are both functional and visually light – think slender silhouettes, foldable chairs, or furniture with open frames that don’t visually clutter the space. Opt for multi-purpose items like benches with hidden storage or side tables that can double as stools.
It’s also important to organise your layout thoughtfully. Define specific zones, even in a small courtyard – perhaps a cosy corner for lounging, a tiny bistro setup for morning coffee, or a tucked-away reading nook. When every piece has a purpose and place, your courtyard will feel more spacious, harmonious, and inviting.
Choose furniture that’s made of lightweight materials as these are easy to carry or move around. You’ll easily be able to rearrange them when needed.
Add A Personal Touch
Your courtyard should reflect your personality – just like your home interiors. Think of it as an outdoor extension of your style. Whether you’re drawn to sleek modern lines, boho charm, or vintage-inspired details, your courtyard is the perfect canvas.
Add a piece of wall art you love, choose furniture in your favourite colours, or display planters you’ve picked up on travels or painted yourself. Even something as simple as a patterned outdoor rug, a string of fairy lights, or a collection of lanterns can add warmth and individuality. Don’t be afraid to mix materials or layer textures – this is your space to play, experiment and create something that feels unmistakably ‘you’.
Other personal touches you may want to consider include DIY items, vintage pieces, and upcycled items.
Final Thoughts
Even the smallest and simplest urban courtyard has the potential to become a beautiful, calming retreat. It might take a bit of planning and creativity, but it’s absolutely achievable. You don’t need to be a professional designer or an expert homemaker to make it happen; just a bit of vision, a dash of determination, and a willingness to try something new.
By embracing your personal style, making smart design choices, and following the tips we’ve shared, you can turn even the most modest space into somewhere that feels inviting and special. Whether it’s a quiet spot for your morning coffee, an evening escape with twinkling lights, or a green sanctuary filled with your favourite plants, your courtyard can reflect the best of outdoor living – right in the heart of the city.
Few outdoor kitchens and BBQ set-ups are complete without a pizza oven these days, and if you haven’t got your hands on one yet, listen up. Aldi is selling a new pizza oven that is a more than £300 cheaper alternative to the cult Ooni Koda 2 Pizza Oven.
It’s true that the best pizza oven will add a whole new dimension to your outdoor cooking space. Fresh, authentic Italian-style pizza whenever you like, it’s a no-brainer that these handy cooking vessels give your BBQ a gourmet edge.
However, these ovens have always been an investment piece and unfortunately, not suited to everyone’s budget. Until now. Aldi’s Gas Pizza Oven costs just £69.99 making it one of the cheapest models I’ve seen this year.
BBQ
Gas Pizza Oven
Ooni
Ooni Koda 2 Gas Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven
Landing in stores on Thursday (10 July), I’m really excited about the prospect of this Specialbuy. It’s even cheaper than Lidl’s pizza oven, which retails for £79.99. You can always count on Aldi for delivering some of the lowest market prices, whilst delivering on quality, which is the main reason I keep finding myself drawn to the middle aisle every time I visit.
Reaching up to 900 degrees, this oven boasts a rapid warm-up time, so you can cook authentic pizza in minutes. Alongisde reaching such high temperatures, the Aldi pizza oven is designed with a double wall, which retains heat in the cooking chamber, allowing you to cook pizza after pizza.
It has a cordierite pizza stone and a built-in thermometer to ensure crispy crusts. The oven also comes with non-slip rubber feet and a carrier bag so you can take this oven camping, picnicking and to your summer plans.
(Image credit: Aldi)
By contrast, the Ooni Koda pizza oven was highly regarded by Ideal Home’s expert reviewer, who praised the oven for how easy it was to make authentic pizza without mess or hassle. Ooni is rated as one of the best pizza oven brands by Ideal Home, and there are plenty of Ooni models to choose from to suit your needs.
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I’m not convinced the Aldi pizza oven will quite match the quality of the Ooni Koda, however, if you’re new to pizza ovens or have a smaller budget, I do think Aldi’s pizza oven is a great starting point. But if you’re having trouble tracking it down, here are a few more alternatives.
VonHaus
Vonhaus Gas Pizza Oven
This outdoor pizza oven takes just 15 minutes to reach 400°C and 5 minutes to cook, meaning you get delicious, authentic pizza whenever you want it. It’s also perfect for smoking meat, fish, and veg too.
Tefal
Jamie Oliver by Tefal Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven
Currently a whopping £100 off, this pizza oven is easy to set up and use, and even comes with a handy guide packed with yummy recipies.
ProCook
Outdoor Pizza Oven 12 Inch
This Pro Cook pizza oven include a smart rotation features to ensure an even bake on your pizza’s without faffing around with a peel.
Will you be trying to get your hands on the Aldi pizza oven this week?
Is there anything better than sinking into new bedding, especially when it feels luxurious? I have a couple of sets of bed linen I’ve invested in to recreate that boutique hotel vibe, and while some premium sets can be expensive, you can track down some deals on the high street, and I’ve recently spotted some gems in the bedding range at Very.co.uk.
As an interior stylist, it’s my job to track down homeware that looks expensive but is within a budget. The trick to finding where to buy bedding that looks expensive on the high street is to look at the details of each set. You want texture, pattern and a quality material (the best sheet material is usually cotton); all these factors will instantly make your bedroom look more expensive.
With that in mind, Very.co.uk has a great selection. From florals and stripes to seersucker and paisley, there’s lots to choose from, but these are the 6 sets I’d recommend to transform a bedroom.
Supersoft Gingham Seersucker Duvet Cover Set in Sage
I remember staying in a country hotel where they had gingham bedding and this pretty set would have fit right in. I love the seersucker texture to it, and the ruffled edges add extra charm. This set is made from polyester, which is not ideal if you overheat at night. But it is easy care, so it still looks good even without ironing.
Very X Wylder Wallflower Duvet Cover Set
Inspired by vintage botanical illustrations, the hand-drawn design of this set instantly gives it a premium edge. Note the darker shade of green on the reverse too – just right for folding over. I’d pick out cushions and a sheet in one of the colours from the design – maybe that soft oyster pink – to pair it with.
Very X Catherine Lansfield Seersucker Frill Duvet Cover Set in Pink
Another seersucker set, but this time in a delicate pink with indulgent frilled edging, which makes this a great choice for anyone who likes their bedding to feel fabulously feminine. Team this with a silk sheet for the ultimate luxe bedding combo.
Very X Dreams & Drapes Spring Glade Floral Duvet Cover Set
Hand-painted designs are always going to look more expensive and that’s certainly true of this pretty floral meadow set. The fact it’s also reversible (with contrasting green stripes on the reverse) means you get two looks for the price of one!
Very Home Apollo Luxe Border Duvet Cover Set
If you love Kelly Hoppen’s sleek monochrome designs then you’ll probably be drawn to this hotel-inspired set, with it’s graphic black border set in a frame-like pattern around the edge. The price is significantly lower than an equivalent designer set, and it’s also made from 100% cotton, so snap it up while you can.
Very X William Morris at Home Sunflower Ink Duvet Cover Set
While this set is a little more costly than the others, it doesn’t let the side down when it comes to looks. You’ll be dressing your bed with a William Morris design – the Sunflower motif – that dates back to the late 19th Century, which is striking and elegant. Plus, it has a 220 thread count for that extra comfort.
Which is your favourite set?
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Dreaming of a cozy boho bedroom, all layered up, but without the splurge? These Amazon picks bring texture and warmth. All without crossing the $200 line. So you can create a bohemian-inspired bedroom without breaking the bank!
Soft corduroy meets boho texture in these best-selling pillow covers. The cream tone blends effortlessly into any color scheme. They can instantly softness to your bed (or sofa, if you have one in your bedroom).
It’s modern, boho, and tech-friendly. With a woven drawer front and built-in charging ports, this nightstand balances form and function perfectly. So, it will add to the aesthetic while also giving you a spot to charge your gadgets.
These semi-sheer linen curtains softly filter light and bring a breezy, relaxed look to the bedroom. Bonus: they’re easy to hang and machine-washable. So, they’re not just stunning but also easy to manage.
Add texture to your bedside with this washable cotton runner. The tassels and geometric tufting scream boho chic. And it works in narrow spaces beautifully.
If you’re looking for affordable bedding, Amazon may well be your first port of call. It’s one of the cheapest options for fitted sheets, duvet covers, and bedding essentials.
But, we all know buying ‘blind’ can be hit and miss, so if you’re considering where to buy bedding that won’t break the bank, is the brand’s budget-friendly bed linen worth parting with your cash for?
I put Amazon’s bestselling duvet set to the test to find out. The Utopia Duvet Cover Set consistently tops Amazon’s bestseller charts, and with prices starting from just £10.99 for a double duvet cover and two pillowcases, it’s easy to see why.
Amazon
Utopia Duvet Cover Set
The Utopia bedding set is available in single, double, or king size, with prices for a double starting from just £10.99.
What’s more, this bedding set has over 50,000 reviews, and of those roughly 72% of owners give the bedding a 5-star rating. On paper, this duvet set sounds very impressive, so I was eager to get my hands on it to see if the rave reviews lived up to my expectations.
The set comes in over 30 different colours, including a funky design with navy arrows, which I ordered in a double. The set arrived super fast, of course; it’s Amazon, and on unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised. The print was fun, and I thought it would look great on the bed.
(Image credit: Future / Amy Lockwood)
However, when I removed the packaging, things unfortunately went downhill fast. In person, the fabric is very thin – I could almost see my hand through the duvet cover when I picked it up to put it on the bed. I guess it’s a bit much to expect £10.99 bed linen to feel expensive, but this still felt lower quality than I’d expected.
Plus, unlike most duvets, which feature buttons or poppers to fasten them up, this set has a zip at the base to secure the duvet inside, and, sadly, it’s one of those zips that feels like it’s going to break at any moment. If (or when) it does, you’re going to be left with a duvet cover that won’t close properly and can’t easily be repaired. Not ideal.
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Because the fabric is so thin, I was also worried that if I snagged it in the zip, it might rip the duvet cover, something a couple of the 1-star Amazon reviews do mention when I did some research.
(Image credit: Future / Amy Lockwood)
Altogether not a great start, but bedtime was coming, and it was time to get testing.
I’d clocked that this bedding was 100% polyester before I ordered it, but I hadn’t expected it to feel quite so synthetic to the touch. The weather has been hot, and touching this bedding instantly made me feel hotter. I could tell I was probably going to be in for a hot and sticky sleep, and I was right.
Polyester bedding is often dubbed the ‘hidden sleep thief‘ because its synthetic fibres lack breathability and reflect body heat back towards the sleeper, and I found exactly that. Despite the fabric being so thin, after 15 minutes or so, I soon began overheating.
The rest of the night was a restless balance between kicking the covers off because they made me too hot, and then pulling them back on when I got chilly. Needless to say, I didn’t wake up feeling very well rested.
(Image credit: Utopia)
What’s more, if you do get hot and sticky under these covers, you can only wash the bedding on a cold wash. That’s not ideal for bed linen, in my opinion.
The main benefit of polyester bedding – in addition to its affordability – is that it’s usually easy care, and although this set dried in super fast time once I pulled it out of the washer – and requires virtually no ironing (always a plus point!) – I feel like a cold wash just isn’t going to get it as clean as I would like.
So, do I think the Utopia Duvet Cover Set is a good value buy? By this point, it’s probably no surprise that, no, despite its price, I wouldn’t recommend this bedding. Yes, it’s cheap, but that’s going to be a false economy if it only lasts a few months or gives you a hot and sweaty night’s sleep. In fact, I’d go as far as to say that even that low £10.99 investment is going to be a waste of money for most people. Sorry, Amazon.
However, if you’re after budget-friendly bedding, all is not lost. These are three affordable alternatives I recommend instead.
The Linen Yard
The Hebden Duvet Set
If you want to benefit from Amazon’s super-fast delivery, then The Linen Yard has an Amazon storefront, and this reversible bedding set is often discounted, so you may be able to snap it up during Amazon Prime Day for less than its normal retail price. It’s 100% cotton, and although its 140 thread count is lower than DUSK’s option, its striped design looks great on the bed.
DUSK is a great alternative to Amazon for affordable bedding, with frequent bedding deals that see price tags slashed to very affordable price points. Thanks to a 50% off sale, this 200 thread count pure cotton bedding set is one of my top alternatives to investing in Amazon’s Utopia bedding.
Habitat
Stockholm Stripe Grey Bedding Set
A mix of 52% polyester and 48% cotton, Habitat’s polycotton bed linen also makes a very affordable option. Plus, this easy care bedding is machine washable at 40°C and can be tumble dried, unlike the Utopia bedding set’s cold-wash-only instructions. There are also plenty of prints and patterns to choose from in Habitat’s bedding range.
I always find it really satisfying when someone assumes that something I’ve bought has cost a fortune, when in fact it was a bit of a bargain. And it’s not just interior accessories that this applies too, but garden furniture as well, and I’ve uncovered some hidden gems on Amazon, of all places.
If you’re house (or garden) proud and don’t want to let your outdoor space down with something that looks cheap or tacky, then you don’t have to worry, as it’s easier than you think to get the luxe look for your garden furniture ideas without the hefty price tag.
Whether you’re after a sofa to sit on, a dining table to socialise at or a day bed to lounge the day away in the sun, I’ve done my research and found some great buys on Amazon.
They not only look expensive, but none of them come at a designer cost. So, save yourself the hassle of scrolling and take a look at this selection, which may just whet your appetite for a new garden upgrade.
Merax Rattan Garden Sofa Set
L-shaped sofas can be pricey, especially if you want one that of a decent size, with modern style and, dare I say, a matching coffee table, too. That’s why I couldn’t quite believe the price of this one, which seats five and comes in at under £400. I love that it’s modular, so can be changed to suit your needs, and features a recliner function so you can use it as a sun lounger too.
Small side tables at the ends offer a handy spot for drinks or sun cream, and the coffee table fits perfectly into the ‘L’ of the sofa for a smart finish.
Amazon Pacific Lifestyle Cabon Outdoor 4 Seater Dining Set
Now this set isn’t what I’d call a steal, but what you do get is bang for your buck with a premium design that you can instantly tell isn’t a cheap option. Why? Let’s start with its timeless looks… handcrafted in Vietnam from sustainable Acacia wood with a teak-effect finish, it has that artisanal feel to it. The table has a slatted top, allowing for water drainage, while the four ergonomically designed chairs feature a curved rattan weave in a soft pebble colour.
Did I mention the cushions, which ensure a comfortable seat, are weather-resistant?
Amazon RELAX4LIFE 2 IN 1 Patio Rattan Daybed
Daybeds can seem like something of a luxury, which is why this one is such a find, especially when you consider that they often start from over £500 and this one is under £300. The backrest is adjustable so you can choose the right angle for you to sit in, and it has a folding side table for drinks or snacks.
Both of these features aren’t something that many more pricey designs offer. There’s a footrest for extra comfort when attached to the sofa, but it also works separately as an ottoman if you need.
Amazon Outsunny 9 Piece Garden Dining Set
It’s not often you get a nine-piece dining set for under £500, and this one looks super smart with its compact cube design. You get four chairs (each with side pockets), four footstools and a square dining table, all with steel powder-coated frames and soft back and seat cushions that are splash-resistant.
Now look closely and you’ll see the top of the table is plastic, however, its wood-effect finish could fool you into thinking its the real thing. Modern? Yes. Designer looks? Yes. Affordable? Definitely.
Panana Acacia Wood Convertible Couch Sofa Bed
At first glance, you’d be forgiven for assuming this is just a garden sofa, but no! Fold the armrests down on both sides and you’ve got yourself a day bed for a snooze in the sun! It’s the acacia wood frame that makes it look much more expensive than its price tag, having a solid, natural look to it that screams quality.
The cushions themselves are all removable and washable, ensuring it’s easy to keep it in tip-top condition.
Amazon Costway Sun Lounger
Last but not least, comes this sun lounger and for me, this certainly looks like a big upgrade from the usual metal and fabric designs that you’ll see aplenty on Amazon. With a ladder-style design made of premium PP material, this lounger allows air to circulate through the design to keep you cooler in the heat, and has been designed with a wide seat for extra comfort.
The backrest is adjustable as you’d expect, with five different reclining positions, and you can choose from black or coffee (shown) colourways. The best part? It comes in at under £100!
Seen anything that’s caught your eye?
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Let me tell you, there has never been a better summer to be testing out a frozen drinks maker at home. I’ve been able to turn any occasion into something a little sweeter with the Ninja Slushi, which is plenty expensive for £349.99 via Ninja, but also a very fun addition to my kitchen, as per my first try of it.
Here’s how I thought it measured up when I put it side by side with the Slushi.
Ninja
Slushi
The Slushi has five presets (Slush, Frozen Cocktail, Frapp, Milkshake, Frozen Juice) and a capacity of 1.9 litres for freezing and enjoying a huge range of drinks.
Inoviva
Slush Machine
Rather than a ‘frozen juice’ settings, the INOVIVA features a wine button, as well as frozen cocktail, milkshake, frappe and normal slush. It has a larger capacity of 2.6 litres.
My first impressions of the Inoviva machine were positive – though it has a larger capacity to the Ninja, it’s about the same size on my kitchen worktop.
It also comes with the same helpful materials as the Slushi including a recipe booklet packed with recipes for frozen drinks. Like the Slushi it also comes covered in easy-to-peel off stickers which direct you how to set it up and first use it. Helpful for getting your first slush just right.
The two machines side-by-side
(Image credit: Future)
Side-by-side, you can see there’s not much in it when it comes to the design of these machines. Apart from the square details of the Inoviva rather than the curves of the Slushi, they’re practically identical.
Things that mark this machine as different from the Slushi include the child lock button and the touch screen over simple buttons on the Ninja. There were also more servings available from one mix, which is thanks to the increased capacity.
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I began trying the Inoviva using a recipe from the guidebook, a raspberry lemonade. All it takes to operate one of these machines is to place the liquids inside and select your program – this time a ‘Slushie’ for me.
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Future)
Testing the Inoviva Slushie machine for the first time at home.
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
In just half an hour, my first frozen drink was ready with the machine beeping to let me know it was ready to dispense. The recipe was a winner and the result was perfect for a baking summer’s day.
As far as capacity is concerned, I definitely got more out of the Inoviva than the Slushi and kept the machine running through the day, returning for top ups for my household.
I’m not really a fan of the childlock feature, which means you have to unlock the machine every time you want to use it, but for certain households this will likely be a benefit instead.
(Image credit: Future)
I also prefer the look of the Slushi, as well as the controls. Overall, though the difference between these products feels negligible and it’s unlikely that either would live on a kitchen worktop full-time – most likely it’ll be relegated to storage until you need to use it.
My biggest takeaway from testing both slushie machines is how much use I’ve actually got out of it. At first I was convinced an at-home frozen drinks maker was a gimmick that would never make it out of storage, but I’ve used it at least once a week for a good few months now. It’s great value when hosting too.
Whether you opt for the Ninja Slushi or the Inoviva Slushie (!), I think this is (surprisingly) an appliance that has a lot of use in it. Could you be tempted to pick one up for your kitchen?
Let me tell you, there has never been a better summer to be testing out a frozen drinks maker at home. I’ve been able to turn any occasion into something a little sweeter with the Ninja Slushi, which is plenty expensive for £349.99 via Ninja, but also a very fun addition to my kitchen, as per my first try of it.
If you love the concept of a frozen drinks maker but would rather opt for something a little cheaper, then I’ve been testing a more affordable alternative to see how it measures up. The INOVIVIA 2.6L Slush Machine is currently on sale for £299.99 on Amazon and currently has a 4.7 star rating out of five from the existing user reviews.
Here’s how I thought it measured up when I put it side by side with the Slushi.
Ninja
Slushi
The Slushi has five presets (Slush, Frozen Cocktail, Frapp, Milkshake, Frozen Juice) and a capacity of 1.9 litres for freezing and enjoying a huge range of drinks.
Inoviva
Slush Machine
Rather than a ‘frozen juice’ settings, the INOVIVA features a wine button, as well as frozen cocktail, milkshake, frappe and normal slush. It has a larger capacity of 2.6 litres.
My first impressions of the Inoviva machine were positive – though it has a larger capacity to the Ninja, it’s about the same size on my kitchen worktop.
It also comes with the same helpful materials as the Slushi including a recipe booklet packed with recipes for frozen drinks. Like the Slushi it also comes covered in easy-to-peel off stickers which direct you how to set it up and first use it. Helpful for getting your first slush just right.
The two machines side-by-side
(Image credit: Future)
Side-by-side, you can see there’s not much in it when it comes to the design of these machines. Apart from the square details of the Inoviva rather than the curves of the Slushi, they’re practically identical.
Things that mark this machine as different from the Slushi include the child lock button and the touch screen over simple buttons on the Ninja. There were also more servings available from one mix, which is thanks to the increased capacity.
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I began trying the Inoviva using a recipe from the guidebook, a raspberry lemonade. All it takes to operate one of these machines is to place the liquids inside and select your program – this time a ‘Slushie’ for me.
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Future)
Testing the Inoviva Slushie machine for the first time at home.
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
In just half an hour, my first frozen drink was ready with the machine beeping to let me know it was ready to dispense. The recipe was a winner and the result was perfect for a baking summer’s day.
As far as capacity is concerned, I definitely got more out of the Inoviva than the Slushi and kept the machine running through the day, returning for top ups for my household.
I’m not really a fan of the childlock feature, which means you have to unlock the machine every time you want to use it, but for certain households this will likely be a benefit instead.
(Image credit: Future)
I also prefer the look of the Slushi, as well as the controls. Overall, though the difference between these products feels negligible and it’s unlikely that either would live on a kitchen worktop full-time – most likely it’ll be relegated to storage until you need to use it.
My biggest takeaway from testing both slushie machines is how much use I’ve actually got out of it. At first I was convinced an at-home frozen drinks maker was a gimmick that would never make it out of storage, but I’ve used it at least once a week for a good few months now. It’s great value when hosting too.
Whether you opt for the Ninja Slushi or the Inoviva Slushie (!), I think this is (surprisingly) an appliance that has a lot of use in it. Could you be tempted to pick one up for your kitchen?
As Apartment Therapy’s Executive Home Director, I head up our decorating, trends, and designer coverage. I studied Media Studies at UVa and Journalism at Columbia and have worked in media for more than a decade. I love homes, heels, the history of art, and hockey — but not necessarily in that order.
