This top-rated Shark vacuum is now under £300 – it’s the only Amazon Prime Day deal I’d recommend as a vacuum expert

This top-rated Shark vacuum is now under £300 – it’s the only Amazon Prime Day deal I’d recommend as a vacuum expert

As Ideal Home’s vacuum expert, I know first-hand just how pricey a good vacuum cleaner can be. That’s why Amazon Prime Day (or Amazon’s Big Deal Days, as it’s been coined) is my favourite time of the year, as bagging an impressive vacuum cleaner deal is always a sure thing. My must-have deal this year? It’s got to be the Shark Stratos Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner Pet Pro, which has been reduced from £479.99 to £297.58.

Taking one of the top spots in my best vacuum cleaner guide, the Shark Stratos is a bestseller for a reason. However, Amazon’s Big Deal Days event end at 23:59 on 8 October, and I have no doubts that this particular deal is going to be very popular. So, you’ll have to act fast if you want to snap it up.

The Shark Stratos really is the vacuum that does it all and arguably one of the best Shark vacuums you can buy today. Not only has it been crowned the ‘best for everyday’ vacuum cleaner that I and the Ideal Home team have ever tested, but I’ve officially named it the number one cordless vacuum cleaner in our guide.

And while it may be one of Shark’s oldest cordless stick vacuums, it’s the kind of model that doesn’t need any upgrades or changes, as it’s that good. In fact, this particular model has two batteries, which means you can enjoy up to 120 minutes of fade-free suction, and it offers Shark’s best-ever hair pick-up thanks to its anti-hair wrap technology.

We gave it a glowing 5-star review for those exact reasons, as well as its impressive suction power that seriously won over our expert tester, Molly.

Image of Shark Stratos during testing at home

(Image credit: Future/Molly Cleary)

She raved, ‘Though it’s slim and lightweight, as soon as you hit the power button on the handle, you feel this vacuum roar into life. Using it in stick mode on carpet initially, I was impressed by the visible lines this left, where it had really gotten into the depths of the fabric and pulled up dirt.’

And while this particular model – coupled with the impressive Amazon Prime Day discount – will undoubtedly suit any home, there’s no denying that it’s an absolute steal for pet parents.

That’s because the Shark Stratos IZ420UKT is designed to be a pet model, coming complete with a motorised pet tool, anti-allergen brush, crevice tool and multi-surface tool to help you vacuum pet hair and clean those smaller nooks and crannies in your home. Plus, it comes with a handy bag to keep the extra tools safe.

Shark cordless vacuum cleaner under sofa

(Image credit: Shark)

It also features impressive anti-odour cartridges that can protect against dust bin odours and leave your home smelling extra fresh while you’re cleaning. The Clean Sense IQ technology also senses the dirt in your home and automatically adjusts its cleaning power to leave both your carpets and hard floors spotless.

All in all, it’s a solid vacuum that I believe is well worth the investment at full price. So, the fact that it’s discounted by almost 40% right now is a huge perk on top of an already great deal.

However, it’s worth noting that while many deals over the next couple of days will be available to non-Prime customers, you’ll need to be an Amazon Prime member to snap up the best of the best Big Deal Days deals.

Shark cordless vacuum cleaner close up of filter

(Image credit: Shark)

You can sign up here if you’re not already a member, and you can even sign up for a free 30-day trial, so you don’t technically need to continue being a member once the deals event is over (as long as you haven’t previously used the free trial). Just don’t tell Amazon I said that…

And if this Shark vacuum deal isn’t quite what you’re after, there are so many other discounted vacuums on Amazon right now. Below are some of my favourites.

Alternative Amazon Prime Big Deal Days vacuum deals

Remember, Amazon Prime’s Big Deals Day ends on the 8th October, so you’ll need to be quick if you want to snap up one of these deals!

Argos’ £12 pumpkin casserole dish is a dead ringer for Le Creuset’s – it has the 5 star rating to back it up, too

Argos’ £12 pumpkin casserole dish is a dead ringer for Le Creuset’s – it has the 5 star rating to back it up, too

It doesn’t get much more autumnal than pumpkin decor, and the piece on everyone’s wish list is, of course, the Le Creuset Cast Iron Pumpkin Casserole. But if you don’t want to spend £299 on one piece of cookware, may I introduce Argos Home’s 2.1 Litre Stoneware Pumpkin Casserole Dish (£12).

Pumpkin-shaped cookware is a popular choice for many kitchens due to its seasonal kitsch aesthetic, and there’s no denying Le Creuset does it best, producing some of the best cast-iron cookware on the market. However, this high-ticket item is pricey, which is why we’re always seeking more affordable pumpkin dutch oven alternatives.

Argos’ pumpkin casserole is five-star rated and an affordable alternative to elevate your seasonal cooking, with many of the same perks as the Le Creuset version. This is everything you need to know.

Affordable Le Creuset dupes are nothing new. For example, I’m actively excited to see Aldi and Lidl Le Creuset alternatives hit their respective middle aisle every few months. But Argos’ pumpkin casserole may be the cheapest I’ve ever seen.

At £12 for a 2.1L capacity, I’d argue this pot is excellent value for money. It’s large enough to use as a serving dish for the whole family, and is both oven and dishwasher-safe. Its bright orange hue is very similar to the iconic Volcanic colourway, and while the stalk isn’t the same stunning gold as a Le Creuset pumpkin dish, it’s still both pretty and detailed.

What I will say is that Le Creuset is offering more in terms of pumpkin cookware. Alongside the classic pumpkin casserole, you can also pick up a shallow pumpkin casserole dish (£299), a mini casserole dish (£50), a mug (£54) and even a butter dish (£67). These are available in an array of pretty colours, too.

Argos Home 2.1 Litre Stoneware Pumpkin Casserole Dish-Orange

(Image credit: Argos Home)

While the Argos pumpkin casserole is limited by comparison, its price is unmatched, and the glowing reviews to back it up show it’s a worthy investment.

‘Lovely looking pumpkin casserole/serving dish. It states on the bottom that it is oven, microwave and dishwasher safe, though I’ve not tested these out. I use it as a serving dish for soup or casserole. It’s an ample size to house enough to serve a family, and as autumnal decoration, it looks fabulous in my kitchen. Very pleased,’ said one.

‘Absolutely lovely. Beautiful colour and lots of room. Thank you, Argos.’

As much as I love the look of a Le Creuset pumpkin casserole, I can’t envision myself spending hundreds of pounds on a piece of cookware that only seems to make an appearance during the autumn and winter months. But I can see the merit in spending £12 on the Argos Pumpkin Casserole, which looks just as stylish at a fraction of the cost.

What do you think?

My mum just introduced me to the Scrub Daddy Power Paste – it gives The Pink Stuff a serious run for its money

My mum just introduced me to the Scrub Daddy Power Paste – it gives The Pink Stuff a serious run for its money

When I’m cleaning my house, the last thing I want to do is keep switching between a whole caddy full of cleaning products. I want minimal fuss, minimal fumes, and one or two impressive products that will clean every inch of my home. And ever since my mum introduced me to the Scrub Daddy Power Paste, it’s become my new favourite multi-purpose cleaner.

Of course, I’m no stranger to Scrub Daddy products. The whole Ideal Home team is obsessed with the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster, and the Scrub Mommy sponges have become a staple in my kitchen. And while I didn’t think anything could top these cleaning staples, I’ve quickly realised how wrong I was. The Scrub Daddy Power Paste is a game-changer – and I’m stocking up.

The Scrub Daddy Power Paste is essentially a multi-purpose cleaning paste similar to The Pink Stuff (something I always have in my cleaning cupboard). But there are a couple of differences between The Pink Stuff and the Scrub Daddy Power Paste.

For starters, the latter is definitely not pink, and it also comes with the addition of a much-loved Scrub Mommy Sponge – which you can buy as a two-pack from Amazon for £7.14 if you need some spares. This particular sponge is dual-sided and offers a tougher FlexTexture scrubber for tougher dirt and grime, and a softer ResoFoam side to soak up liquids and dry the surface you’re cleaning.

Scrub Daddy Power Paste Multi Purpose Cleaner

(Image credit: Future PLC/Lauren Bradbury)

As if that wasn’t enough, the tougher scrubber side of the sponge also changes depending on the water temperature. You can soften it in warm water for a gentler clean, or keep it dry for heavier-duty cleaning. It’s also completely resistant to mould and odours, so you don’t need to worry about it kicking up a stink after use. And when you want to wash it, it’s top-rack dishwasher safe.

And although I’ve only been using the Scrub Daddy Power Paste in my home for just over a week, I’m already ridiculously obsessed. All you need to do is wet the paste and rub it onto the dirty area before watching the grime disappear before your very eyes.

So far, I’ve used it in every room of my house, cleaning everything from my oven door (which I didn’t actually think was very dirty, but the photo evidence below suggests otherwise) to the dirty marks on my walls and my plantation shutters, which always seem to have mucky fingerprints on them.

I’ve even used it to completely de-grease my kitchen splashback and remove burn-on food on my hob, and it worked an absolute treat. But you can also use it in your bathroom to clean shower screens, baths, grout and more. The best part? The paste is completely non-toxic and made from natural materials, so you can add it to your natural cleaning routine.

However, the paste is quite abrasive. And while this aids in its impressive cleaning power, Scrub Daddy doesn’t recommend using the Power Paste on soft, varnished, coated or sensitive surfaces.

I’m not the only one who loves the Scrub Daddy Power Paste, either. It’s one of Amazon’s bestselling products, and currently has over 15,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5.

Tub of the Pink Stuff next to a tub of the Scrub Daddy Power Paste

(Image credit: Future PLC/Lauren Bradbury)

One happy customer wrote, ‘This product has completely transformed my cleaning routine. The Power Paste worked wonders, easily breaking down grime and leaving everything looking spotless. What I love most is how little you need to use – just a small amount goes a long way.’

Another wrote, ‘Wow! Just wow! Cleaned inside of oven door in about three minutes… squeaky clean. Same with the enamel sink (the part where the draining board sits). Cannot wait to try it on loads of other surfaces.’

I’m also going to join them in writing a stellar review, because I think the Scrub Daddy Power Paste may just be my new favourite cleaning product…

Have you tried the Scrub Daddy Power Paste yet? Let me know what you think of it!

This Travel Backpack Goes with Me Everywhere (It’s My “Mary Poppins” Bag!)

This Travel Backpack Goes with Me Everywhere (It’s My “Mary Poppins” Bag!)

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

As a travel writer, I’ve learned how to level up my packing routine with smart suitcases and packing cubes that have made me a savvier traveler. But when it comes to personal items, things aren’t always so clear. Large tote bags irritate my shoulder, so I made the switch to backpacks, but many don’t fit everything I want, are too heavy and clunky, or have me resembling my children carrying their book bags to school. Then I found Portland Gear’s Cascade Backpack, which I call the “Mary Poppins” bag of backpacks, and it is the exact game-changer I needed.

What Is the Portland Gear Cascade Backpack?

The Portland Gear’s Cascade Backpack is a designed-for-anything backpack. It’s made from 100% polyester with a thermoplastic polyurethane matte coating that’s weatherproof — though there’s also a faux-leather option. It comes in two sizes and a variety of colors including tan, cream, olive, lavender, and pink. I went with classic black in the standard size, which is 16 inches tall, 11 inches wide, and holds up to 21 liters in volume.

There are multiple grab handles, including dual handles on top, one on the front pocket, and a luggage sleeve across the back. The straps are adjustable and padded with an optional chest strap for extra support.

Why I Love the Portland Gear Cascade Backpack

I’ve tried a lot of backpacks over the years ranging from simple bags to designer options that cost several hundred dollars. This is the best one yet. I’ve brought it everywhere, including around my home state of California and as far as Hawaii. Here’s why it stands out.

It has a multitude of useful pockets.

On the exterior, there are open slots for water bottles on each side, in addition to a wide front pocket. Inside are even more pockets, including a padded tech sleeve that fits a full-size laptop, a zippered pouch, two open pockets for small items like pens, ChapStick, or earbuds. It also sports a hidden security pocket in the back for stashing a wallet, phone, or passport and keeping them close to the body.

When packing for myself on a work trip, it easily fits my laptop, toiletry bags, some clothes, water bottles, and travel essentials,  while still having room left over to bring back souvenirs for my kids or anything else. When using it as my personal item with my children, it fits all of the above, plus toys and snacks. And in neither scenario have I ever struggled to fit what I needed — or to close it.

It’s sturdy and durable.

The top is constructed with a wireframe closure inside a heavy-duty zipper. When I zip it closed, the wireframe snaps shut without hesitation. Even when overly full, I’ve never had to force it or battle with the zipper in any way. I also really like that the bottom is well structured and stays upright when set down.

It’s user-friendly and accessible.

The inside of the backpack is purposely lined in light gray, which makes it much easier to find belongings as opposed to other black backpacks that become one big dark hole. The water bottle pockets are also perforated to ensure water won’t collect inside in the event of a spill or rain. I have a herniated disc in my neck that irritates easily; the thickly padded straps make it comfortable to carry even when full. Plus, I appreciate the ability to slip it over a suitcase handle and get a break.

While I do wish the side bottle pockets had more stretch (it can be tough to squeeze a bottle in if the bag is very full), the Portland Gear’s Cascade Backpack delivers on everything it promises. It does indeed fit underneath the seat in front of me on an airplane without issue or any squeezed contents. Although it doesn’t magically hold items like Miss Poppins’ bag, the unique closure is so effective that perhaps a little bit of wonder managed to work its way inside after all. 

‘Mushroom water’ is the gardening hack that could help your plants flourish – and you can make it at home for free

‘Mushroom water’ is the gardening hack that could help your plants flourish – and you can make it at home for free

Any good gardener knows the merit of a good fertiliser to improve their crop yields, support plant growth and solve nutrient deficiencies. But if you’re looking for a gentle and natural alternative, garden experts are recommending mushroom water – and you can make it at home for free.

Mushrooms are a key ingredient in many dishes, which is why it’s always handy to know how to grow mushrooms for an endless supply of this tasty, nutritional fungi. And if you need any more convincing to add mushrooms to your greenhouse, you can also use them to give your plants a well-needed hydration boost.

Mushroom water can improve plant hydration, soil quality, and enhance nutrient uptake, three things that will really let your garden ideas bloom. This is everything you need to know, plus how to make mushroom water yourself.

Why should you use mushroom water on your plants?

‘When you soak mushrooms in water, they release some of their mycelial matter together with essential nutrients, including potassium and phosphorus, into the water,’ says Lucie Bradley, garden and greenhouse expert at Easy Garden Irrigation.

‘When used to water at the base of your plants, this mushroom water adds the mycelium to the soil, which increases the beneficial fungal activity in the soil, which improves the soil structure and its ability to retain moisture.

‘The mycelium also helps to improve the plant roots’ ability to absorb minerals from the soil. At the same time, the mushroom water adds essential nutrients and minerals to the soil in a natural way, without having to use chemical fertilisers.’

A bowl of chestnut mushrooms

(Image credit: Getty Images/Aleksandr Zubkov)

Due to its hydrating qualities, mushroom water is best used during heatwaves when there is a greater likelihood to be drought conditions or a hosepipe ban. But it’s still beneficial to use mushroom water all year round. This reduces the risk of nutrient burn, which can happen when you use strong fertilisers excessively.

‘Because mushroom water is mild, it is less likely to overwhelm plants. Instead, it could slowly release moisture into the soil, supporting hydration while reducing the risk of nutrient burn,’ say mushroom experts at Urban Farm-it.

And if you’re wondering what plants to use it on, Lucie says it’s excellent for your houseplants, hanging baskets and container gardens, and most flowering plants.

‘During the autumn, you can boost perennials, including coneflowers, daylilies and rudbeckia, which will benefit from a boost in nutrients late in the season,’ she says.

How to make mushroom water

It really is super-simple to make mushroom water. All you need is mushrooms and water, and that is quite literally it.

Various types of raw and cooked mushrooms on table and in bowl

(Image credit: Getty)

‘Simply chop a handful of mushrooms – fresh or dried – and leave them in water for 12 to 24 hours. The infusion can then be poured at the base of your plants, where it may gradually seep into the soil,’ say the experts at Urban Farm-it.

Lucie says dried mushrooms work best, but you can use supermarket ones. Alternatively, there are some mushroom-based fertilisers available on the market, such as the DYNOMYCO Granular Mycorrhizal Fungi Inoculant (£15.95 at Amazon), which works to improve root strength, nutrient absorption and crop yields.

Mushrooms growing in soil in dark room

(Image credit: Getty)

‘You can use fresh or dried mushrooms when making mushroom water for your plants. Using dried mushrooms will actually produce a more nutrient-rich water than fresh mushrooms. However, both types will add nutrients and produce a liquid that will improve the hydration of the soil it is poured onto,’ Lucie says.

‘When using fresh mushrooms, either home-grown or bought from a supermarket, use oyster, wine cap, shitake or lion’s mane mushrooms. All of these mushrooms are saprotropic, feeding on and breaking down organic matter, converting it into forms that plants can absorb. This makes them perfect for producing water that will improve the nutrients in the soil and increase its water uptake.’

If you fancy giving mushroom water a try, while you can use mushrooms from the veg drawer in your fridge, investing in a mushroom grow kit can be a fun way to make mushroom water while seeing these fun-guys grow.

Are you tempted to use mushroom water on your plants? Let us know how you get on.

Cool As Marble: Why Marbling Is Making A Comeback In Interiors

Cool As Marble: Why Marbling Is Making A Comeback In Interiors

Do you remember learning marbling paint techniques at school? The technique has always been part of the art world, but this year it’s making a comeback in interior design, too. Part of a greater overall desire to embrace natural shapes and texture and artisanal craftsmanship, marbling is appearing on everything from wallpaper to lampshades.

30cm straight empire lightshade, Pooky. The handmade marbling technique used on this paper shade brings the green and blue colourscheme to life, each shade slightly different. Available in different colourways, it costs £47.08 from Pooky.

What is marbling?

There is a form of marbling which involves painting streaks on a plain background to copy the appearance of marble stone. If well done, this can look stunning. What we’re talking about here, though, is a technique that’s normally applied to paper and material. It involves printing multi-coloured swirly patterns on a flat surface.

You first form the patterns by swirling special, coloured paint in a flat tray of liquid, then laying the paper or cloth on top so that it absorbs the colours. This is an ancient technique which has been practised for hundreds of years in Turkey and neighbouring countries. It came to Britain in the second half of the 17th century and became really popular in the 19th century as a handicraft.

Blue marbled Staci bauble, Heavenly Homes & Gardens. This striking ornament is made from bright blue glass with a white marbled finish. It would look lovely hanging in a window to catch the sunlight. £12, available from Heavenly Homes & Gardens.

Why is marbling popular?

One of the main attractions of marbling is the organic swirl of the pattern, and its unique nature. The patterns mirror natural elements found in stone, water, plants and even birds’ feathers, adding a sense of calm tranquility to your living, space.

Another big selling point is the artisan nature of marbling. If your taste is more towards the creative and unique than the mass produced, then each marbled piece is slightly different and distinct.

Marbled topaz wallpaper, Impermanance. A simplistic yet elegant marbled wallpaper (above and main image), with fabulous colours to creates a spectacular interior. Create a feature wall, or cover a small room for instant wow factor. £219 for 3 x 52cm by 300cm rolls, available from Mind the Gap.

Depending on the colours and pattern used, marbled accessories and furniture can be bold, eye catching, subtle, soft, contemporary or traditional. Designers are experimenting with unexpected colour combinations for extra wow factor.

Marbled hurricane candle holders, La Residence Interiors. These gold and white candle holders cast a soft, inviting glow when lit to help create a welcoming atmosphere. £30, available from La Residence Interiors.

Modern marbling techniques often use sustainable materials, such as eco-friendly paint and recycled paper. It’s also an easy technique to learn yourself with fairly basic equipment, although if you want to make anything bigger than a lampshade you may struggle for space! You can buy ‘getting started’ marbling kits online, or choose your supplies individually from most craft shops.

Small Anise marbled frame, OKA. This little frame is made from a process designed to minimise waste, using the stone dust from other projects to create a new material. The handmade nature of the piece and natural materials will result in one being slightly different. £35, available from OKA.

However you choose to use the soft, organic shapes of marbling in your home, you can be sure your designs are different and distinct and will add a creative flair to your living space.

Main image shows the marbled Topaz wallpaper by Impermanence, (c) 2025

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I’m obsessed with this viral nostalgic 90s lighting accessory – and it’s just £20 on Amazon

I’m obsessed with this viral nostalgic 90s lighting accessory – and it’s just £20 on Amazon

It goes without saying that not every viral TikTok trend should be followed. But once in a while, I stumble upon a gem and become obsessed. That’s the case with the stained glass light bulbs, available at Amazon for £20.99 for a set of two.

Inspired by stained glass often seen on front doors of residential houses or church windows, these light bulbs are painted in a multicoloured pattern which helps to create a colourful but diffused light. And this lighting trend can be paired with pretty much any table or floor lamp – or perhaps even a ceiling light – as long as it has a white or light-coloured lampshade.

I first came across these light bulbs through TikTok content creator Tina Le Mac who in the video’s caption wrote, ‘These stained glass light bulbs are a whole ~vibe~ and to say I’m obsessed is an understatement!! Like how did I not know about these until this year?!’

While I’m in the same boat as Tina, having never heard of these before seeing her video – and subsequently many more from other TikTokers – this is apparently a returning home decor trend from the 90s, one I’ve never come across before. But Ideal Home’s Managing Editor, Thea Babington-Stitt remembers this nostalgic trend with fondness.

‘I’m aging myself here, but I remember this from the 90s! The stained glass bulbs were the thing to have in your bedroom for a while, and even DIY-ing your own. Fashion’s been leaning heavily into that era so it seems about time that interiors are doing the same. Love the nostalgia, but let’s keep it at these and not go as far as the inflatable furniture (IYKYK).’

You can pair your stained glass light bulb with a paper lantern-style lamp like Tina has done, or with a globe-shaped table lamp, similarly to Stephie Babie whose video has attracted 1.5 million views on TikTok. And there are others that have even surpassed 11 million views.

Yep, this is truly a viral trend – and one that I’m fully on board with and am ready to invest in, especially with Amazon Prime Day deals coming up! Will you be embracing this playful lighting look?

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Burning rosemary in your home can improve your air quality, get rid of pests, and boost your wellbeing – experts explain why it’s worth trying this October

Burning rosemary in your home can improve your air quality, get rid of pests, and boost your wellbeing – experts explain why it’s worth trying this October

You may have seen an increase in people burning rosemary in their homes this month, a spiritual practice that many start on 1 October, but did you know burning rosemary has a number of benefits that can contribute to a happier and healthier home?

Rosemary is an essential part of any herb garden. Not only can it make your Sunday roast even more flavourful, but this plant can also purify the air and repel pests from your home, which is why every gardener should know how to grow rosemary.

What’s more, now is one of the best times to plant rosemary, and if you need more convincing, here’s why the experts say it is beneficial to burn rosemary in your home.

Why you should burn rosemary in your home

Burning rosemary is an ancient tradition going back thousands of years. It was used by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans, believed by ancient practitioners to improve memory and brain function. Burning rosemary was also believed to improve air quality and ward off evil spirits.

Now, I can’t vouch for evil spirits, but there is evidence that burning rosemary can improve air quality. If you don’t have one of the best air purifiers to hand, could rosemary be a worthy alternative?

Garden spade next to potted rosemary plant and bench

(Image credit: Future PLC / David Brittain)

‘The smoke from burning rosemary carries mild antibacterial and antifungal properties,’ explains Johannes Hock, plant expert and president of Artificial Grass Pros.

‘While it will not sterilise a small indoor area, burning rosemary will reduce some air-borne impurities, in addition to providing a cleaner space. Unlike commercial air fresheners, rosemary is a naturally occurring herb that contains natural oils that decompose relatively quickly without leaving residual chemicals behind.’

A plant stand with potted herbs

(Image credit: Getty Images/Westend61)

Not only that, but burning rosemary can have sensory benefits that aid our well-being, including improving memory and concentration, as the ancient Greeks believed.

‘Burning rosemary supports both the nervous system and cognitive functioning,’ says Dr Tracy King, Clinical and Holistic Psychologist.

‘Compounds such as 1,8-cineole, one of the main compounds in rosemary, have been linked in research to enhanced memory and concentration, which means people may find it easier to stay focused, recall information, and remain mentally clear in daily tasks.’

‘On a psychological level, the aromatic smoke or vapour engages the vagus nerve, which allows the body to shift from stress into a calmer state. In practice, this means the ritual of burning rosemary can help settle anxiety, improve mood, and create a grounding moment of presence at home.’

rosemary and thyme in terracotta pots

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Burning rosemary is also a humane and natural pest repellent. This pest-repelling plant is great for deterring carrot flies, mosquitoes, midges, spiders and ants, who can’t stand its strong scent. Given that it’s spider season right now in the UK, why not try burning rosemary as a way to deter spiders via scent?

Where to buy rosemary:

Rosemary is best planted in the spring or in the early autumn before temperatures plummet – making now your last chance to plant it. Alternatively, you can always pick up rosemary in your local supermarket, or add rosemary oil (£9.99 at Amazon) to an electric diffuser to get the benefits of its fresh scent.

Would you like to try this ancient practice in your home?

Soft Curves & Arches: Why Your Home Needs Arch Mirror (all under $150)

Soft Curves & Arches: Why Your Home Needs Arch Mirror (all under $150)

If you’ve been noticing a shift in interiors lately, you’re not imagining it. Straight edges are stepping aside to make room for softer, sculptural curves. Arch mirrors in particular are taking over, and for good reason. They make your home feel bigger, brighter, and instantly more stylish, all while adding elegance. The best part? You don’t need to splurge. Every pick here is under $150.

POZINO Irregular Scalloped Round Mirror

scalloped round mirror

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This scalloped design feels organic without being over the top. Perfect above a bathroom vanity or as an accent in a hallway. The irregular shape makes it feel more like art than just a mirror.

WallBeyond Asymmetrical Wood Frame Mirror

asymmetrical irregular wall mirror

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Mid-century modern lovers, this one’s for you. The black wood frame grounds the mirror’s freeform shape, making it a statement piece without clashing with the rest of your decor.

WallBeyond Gold Asymmetrical Mirror

gold asymmetrical mirror

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Adding gold accents to your home instantly elevates the vibe. This asymmetrical gold frame looks luxe and chic on a vanity or entryway, but the price tag keeps it firmly in the “budget win” category.

Classic Arch Bathroom Mirror

arch bathroom mirror

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For a timeless look, you can’t go wrong with a clean-lined arch! This 20×30 option works in bathrooms, bedrooms, or as a graceful accent over a console table. Minimal, versatile, and so elegant.

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