As a professional cook who spends my days developing recipes in the Test Kitchen, I want simple, professional results at home and at work too. And, if I can, I like to keep things natural and non-toxic. It's a tall order, but one that the Lakeland 10-in-1 Tri-Ply Only Pan Pro promises to fulfil.

Plenty of experts will tell you that you can avoid nasty non-stick chemicals by cooking on uncoated stainless steel pans. However, that takes a lot of extra effort and, after a full day of recipe development, I want a pan that's fuss-free, non-toxic and reliable.

So, you can see why a versatile pan like the Lakeland Only Pan Pro appeals. With ten functions in one and a competitive £85 price tag, it promises to be the only pan you need in your kitchen after a long day. So, I put it to the test and cooked exclusively with this for a few days to see whether it's up to my high standards, at home and in the kitchen.

Lakeland 10-in-1 Only Pan Pro review

Who would the Lakeland 10-in-1 Only Pan Pro suit?

• Someone cooking for up to 4 people
• Someone with limited kitchen storage space
• Someone with only stainless steel pans looking for a non-toxic induction pan

This pan is a great choice for someone looking for a space and money-saving option, wanting to cook meals for themselves and their partner, or a small family (around 2-4 people).

It will also appeal to a health-conscious cook who wants to avoid PFAS coated pans and reduce the amount of fat they use in cooking. The ceramic non-stick works like many of the non-toxic air fryers that we love, offering a chemical-free, but equally effective way to cook without your food sticking. And, as you'll see, I hardly needed to use any oil in my recipes to get delicious results.

If someone currently uses uncoated stainless steel pans and struggles to make certain dishes, such as stir frys and eggs, the non-stick coating of this will be an attractive alternative. I tend to avoid these dishes at home, because the fuss doesn't seem worth it, but a pan like this makes them easier than ever.

What is the Lakeland 10-in-1 Only Pan Pro like to use?

As someone who has built their career around food, I'm the sort of person who likes a cooked breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It sounds like a lot of effort, but with the right kit, it's worth it. Cooking mostly for myself in a small kitchen, with limited storage, I knew this pan has some challenges to come up against, but if it could succeed, it could solve a lot of problems and save me a lot of time at home.

Breakfast: pancakes and fried egg

Breakfasts rely on frying almost exclusively, with a little stewing and baking on occasion. First up in my tests were pancakes. I wouldn't attempt to make these in a regular stainless steel pan, so was hopeful that a successful batch would earn this pan a spot in my cupboard.

I started by adding a knob of butter to the pan, but it melted and burnt faster than I expected. So, I wiped the pan out and, instead of adding more butter, decided to challenge it. I made eight, delicious pancakes with no fat at all. They were the easiest-releasing pancakes that I've ever made and tasted even better without the greasy edges.

Feeling confident, I fried an egg with no oil, which felt very wrong, but the pan delivered a perfectly fried, grease-free egg that slipped around the pan with ease. That's seriously impressive, even for a non-stick.

Lunch: shakshuka and omelettes

Shakshuka is a brilliant test for a pan that promises versatility like this, because you move from sautéing onion and peppers to simmering tomato sauce and then baking with eggs in the oven. So, I chose this for my lunchtime test, with omelettes on the next day.

The pan comfortably held enough for four. Thanks to high sides, it could hold plenty of liquid, which surprised me, because a 26cm diameter doesn't sound like it's going to be the most generous capacity.

Sautéing the onions and peppers was standard. Nothing stuck and the heat distributed evenly across the base of the pan. I could bring the tinned tomatoes, chickpeas, and water to a simmer within minutes and they held a low simmer for 10 minutes with total ease. Once the cracked eggs and feta went in, I popped the pan into the oven at 180°C for 10 minutes. It came out just like it would from any pan or oven dish, with a few tomato splashes up the sides, but an otherwise delicious meal.

I wanted to switch the grill on to get some extra colour on the feta, but something told me to check first. And it's lucky that I did, because the pan is limited to 200°C and Lakeland advises against going over that, which is a surprise given that this is one of the functions and most ovens' grill pre-set rarely drip under 200°C.

Omelettes work for any meal in the day, but while we're looking at meals with egg, I thought it would only be fitting to introduce the omelette. Stainless steel can be a nemesis for making scrambled eggs and omelettes, especially without perfect heat control. As with breakfast, I preheated my pan without any oil or butter and tipped the eggs straight in.

Most of my doubts about the pan were wrong. The non-stick quality held even without the oil, the eggs moved far more easily than in any stainless steel pan that I've used. The only hitch was when I was scraping the cooked sides into the middle, where there was some sticking and tearing, turning what should have been an omelette into scrambled eggs. With a little oil, I'm confident this would make a brilliant omelette.

Dinner: paella

After pancakes, paella is one of my go-tos when I'm cooking at home. It's a one-pan meal that feels far more rewarding than the effort involved - and it's one I'm always using on different pans as a measure of how good they are.

The diced chicken breast went in first. In a stainless steel pan that's not quite at temperature, this can get sticky almost instantly, but it browned nicely with no sticking here. Chorizo and the aromatics sautéed next with vegetables stir-fried in.

After that was perfected, the chicken went back to braise, with simmering tomatoes and stock. Thanks to the pan's temperature sensitivity, which I found easy to control, I could keep the hob on a medium heat setting, confident that the paella as cooking steadily.

While the stock boiled, I couldn't help but think that Lakeland doesn't need to split boiling and simmering into different functions. Of course, it adds to the "10 functions in 1" sell, but they're pretty much the same.

Back to my paella. Once the stock was simmering, I added in my rice. At this point, even with the high sides, space felt tight and I couldn't steam my vegetables alongside it. I made sure to do some afterwards and was, overall, very happy with the overall paella results - it was creamy, light, and rich without tasty heavy of stodgy.

I doubled back to testing steaming vegetables in the steamer basket a few days later alongside a Chinese takeaway. We don't normally steam our vegetables, but there were actual "oohs" and "ahhs" over the colour and taste of the broccoli. I felt that I could taste the extra nutrients - a win for health and for the pan too.

My takeaways (after my takeaway) for the pan were that it only just held 6 portions, so it's better to stick to feeding four. The string non-stick also means that the base of the paella never gets properly crispy, so it might not be the best paella pan. And while it's handy that this is oven safe, I still burned myself grabbing the handle afterwards, as I always do.

Cleaning and maintenance on the Lakeland 10-in-1 Only Pan Pro

A huge benefit of this pan over an uncoated stainless steel pan is how easy it is to clean. There are no annoying handle rivets for food to get stuck to, and as nothing was stuck to the base, only a simple scrub was needed. After washing, a few water marks clung to the very shiny lid, which could bother a cook who likes to display their lovely pans, but it could also be polished.

Does the Lakeland 10-in-1 Only Pan Pro offer good value?

This pan has clearly taken inspiration from a cult favourite Our Place pan, but this isn't the first time. The model that I tested is the "Pro", but they did make an Only Pan back in 2025. Looking at the two iterations of Lakeland’s Only Pans side by side on the website, the difference between the Pro and the base version seems to be an increase of functions - 8 versus 10. The extra functions come from the heat resistance of the Pro, oven safe up to 200°C, in comparison to the 8-in-1, at 150°C. This means grilling and baking should be possible with the Pro version. The Pro costs £25 more, but is only offered in a chrome finish, whereas the 8-in-1 version comes in 5 different colours, to suit a range of kitchen aesthetics.

The intention of this review is not to compare it to its muse, but I do have experience using the original Only Pan. My mum has one and raves about it constantly. Hers is a large size, looks great on the countertop, and successfully lets her make the recipes she wants. I use it whenever I’m at her house because it is the most versatile pan in her selection. However, we have both noticed a decline in the non-stick. Now, when she makes a stir fry or fried rice, bits get stuck to the base. They always come off in the wash, but it is annoying when the stuck bits start to burn.

Should you buy the Lakeland 10-in-1 Only Pan Pro?

Overall, the Only Pan Pro is an impressively versatile piece of cookware. Its capacity and range of functions make it particularly useful for one-pan cooking, and the incredibly effective PFAS-free non-stick coating is, without doubt, its standout feature. Being able to cook eggs and pancakes with barely any added fat was seriously impressive and may even have finally won me over from my beloved stainless steel pans.

There are, however, a few niggles. The lid and handle become very hot on the hob, the scratch-resistance claims feel slightly at odds with the care instructions around metal utensils, and the advertised grill function comes with the rather important caveat that the pan shouldn’t actually be placed under a grill.

I see the Only Pan Pro as a very good addition to a kitchen rather than a complete replacement for every other pan. A milk pan and a large pot will still have their place in my kitchen, but for someone moving out for the first time, heading to university, or simply looking for a versatile, low-fat cooking pan, this could make a particularly useful gift.

When you’re trail running or hiking for hours, the last thing you want is tired feet slowing you down, but a thick midsole isn’t always ideal for rough ground. In recent years, many trail shoes have adopted the higher midsole stack found in road running shoes, but without careful design, they can feel like you’re running on stilts.

I recently packed the plush Nike ACG Zegama Trail shoes for a trip to Chamonix, where I hiked and ran on steep and rocky trails for three days. I loved the combination of comfort and capability. With ultra-soft midsoles, a breathable upper, and great grip, I hiked and ran in comfort, whether I was facing hot sun or torrential rain.

As an outdoors journalist, hiker and trail runner, I’ve tested dozens of the best trail running shoes over the years – including a few from Nike – and ACG Zegamas really stand out. I can run or walk for miles in them without aching feet or rubbing. They’ve managed to cram in a lot of foam underfoot without making me feel totally disconnected from the trail. I might think twice about wearing them for running on very rocky trails, but for gravel roads and long days I can hardly think of a comfier shoe.

Nike ACG Zegama Trail review

Specifications

• Size range: 3 - 9.5
• Weight: 247g per shoe
• Stack height: 38 mm - 34 mm
• Heel-to-toe drop: 4 mm
• Lug depth: 4 mm
• Waterproof version available: Yes

What are the Nike ACG Zegama Trail shoes like for running?

I previously tested the Nike Zegama 2 trail shoes, and I found them to be a bit sweaty and lacking room for my high arches. The ACG (All Conditions Gear) model is a noticeable upgrade in both departments. As soon as I pulled them on, I was struck by how spacious and soft they felt underfoot.

I tested them in the white/orange colourway, which, like most Nike shoes, looks really nice, but I always have to question the wisdom of making trail shoes in white. As it turned out, my first jaunt in them ended with an alpine thunderstorm, and despite a good scrubbing, I now own these in brown/grey.

Nike has the super maximalist approach here, using 38mm of super soft ZoomX foam under the heel. It was enough cushion for me to comfortably run on the roads through Chamonix town centre to reach the trail. That said, it doesn’t behave exactly like a high-stacked road shoe, and that's not a bad thing.

Without a carbon plate, the foam feels quite soft rather than super springy, and even though it’s thick, the lack of a rock plate meant that I was still aware of the roots and rocks on the trail. The longest I’ve run in these in one go is 12k, so this hasn’t posed a problem and means I feel I can respond quite well to what I’m running on, but for longer distances I wonder if I’d start to regret the lack of underfoot protection?

It’s no secret that a very high stack shoe can feel a little wobbly, but the low heel-to-toe drop of just 4mm helps counteract the height and creates a much more stable feel that I really enjoy running in. The result is a smooth ride, and even though I’d still choose a more moderate shoe for very uneven trails, I’m not worried about turning an ankle on the level.

The fit is also much improved on previous editions, with tons of room around my toes for comfort. The pair I’m testing is a half size up from my normal size, but if I lace them up well, I can achieve a good fit around my midfoot for stability, and my heel stays locked in place, which definitely increases my confidence.

Another feature I like more than usual is the stretchy ankle cuff to keep grit and debris out. In other shoes, like the Keen Seek trail running shoes, I have to wrestle my foot in, but Nike has a big pull tab. This makes it really easy to put them on. They didn't rub even when my sock slipped down.

The cuff perhaps works better because it’s woven into a more traditional tongue and lacing system, which all works together to provide support without causing pain on the top of my foot.

They could use a lace garage - a spot to tuck away laces - as I find my laces come untied on overgrown trails, and they do lack a little protection around the toe box. I discovered this when I tripped on a tree root. That said, because I’m more likely to save them for straightforward trails and gravel paths, these technicalities shouldn’t pose a problem.

What are the Nike ACG Zegama Trail shoes like for hiking?

Chamonix’s trails are so steep that any run there involves quite a bit of hiking, which gave me a good opportunity to test out the versatility of these shoes, and though I wouldn’t necessarily have guessed it by looking at them, I think they are also among the best walking shoes.

The Vibram rubber outsole has deep lugs arranged in a multi-directional pattern, which meant I stuck to the trails even when they turned to slop in the rain as I was coming down a particularly steep, rooted section.

The uppers are mesh fabric on the outside, and a sock liner on the inside. I found that makes for a really breathable shoe on a hot day, but one that doesn’t feel as though my feet will freeze when the weather turns colder. They did get soaked through when I got caught in the rain, but that didn’t cause me any rubbing. I didn’t have any newspaper on hand to stuff them with, but they were only a little damp the next morning, and not unpleasant to wear again.

The roomy fit around the toe box is ideal for hiking. I find that the longer I’m on my feet, the more my feet swell, and I’m never worried about rubbing or pinching in these shoes.

Also, the very slight rocker sole means that when I did find reasonably flat sections, I was rolling through each step for a very nice, smooth experience. Honestly, the only thing that would give me pause about packing them for a hiking holiday is that they’re quite big. They take up more room in my suitcase compared to the Merrell Morphlite, for example. Saying that, they’re shoes I’d probably be happy to wear to the airport.

Who should buy the Nike ACG Zegama Trail shoes?

These shoes are on the heavier side. Though I didn't notice on the trail, I might not recommend them for racing or speed days. I think they’re a great pick for anyone enjoying longer runs on more straightforward trails, on a mix of trail and road, or who wants technical capability but won't sacrifice comfort.

If you’ve gone all in on the plush feeling of a maximalist shoe and want room for your toes to splay, you’ll really love the all-day comfort of these shoes. But as always, I’d warn you to watch your step on tricky terrain as so much stack could be an invitation to turn an ankle.

Are the Nike ACG Zegama Trail shoes worth buying?

Priced at £154.99, these shoes are a little cheaper than the Zegama 2s, objectively better, and quite competitive for such a technical pair of shoes.

You get a lot for your money, and as long as you’re clear that these are a plush ride for a long, slow day and not a snappy, responsive shoe, you’ll be very happy with them. Also, they look great.

It's been a big few weeks for the world of fitness trackers, and the Google Pixel Watch 5 is the latest to come across my desk. As woman&home's digital health editor, I've been testing these watches for the past six years.

While I've often included Google Pixel Watches in my round-up of the best Fitbits since they used the original Fitbit app to store and display health data, there's a new one now. The introduction of the Google Health app has brought them into a world of their own, and it's better than ever before.

The Google Pixel Watch 5 also comes with new and improved fitness insights, sleep monitoring, AI integration, and smartwatch features. It's truly an all-singing, all-dancing digital companion for every part of life. Now, if only they could make the battery last longer.

Google Pixel Watch 5 review

What is the Google Pixel Watch 5 like to wear?

The Google Pixel Watch 5 sits flush on the wrist. I tested the smaller 41mm option and found it to be very comfortable and unobtrusive during my daily life. For those who want a larger screen or have larger wrists, the device is also available in a 45mm option.

Each comes with a choice of two silicone bands. These interlock like the old-school Fitbit Infinity bands, so they feel secure and stay out of the way.

I've also tested the Google Pixel Watch 3 and Watch 4, so I immediately noticed that the design hasn't changed all that much. There are new watch faces to try - should you choose the Modular face, you'll find the display of steps, active minutes, heart rate, etc is clearer to read.

Fitness and workout tracking on the Google Pixel Watch 5

Since releasing the Google Pixel Watch 4, the brand has introduced Google Health. I first tested it on the Fitbit Air and was very impressed by the new health and fitness features. For example, with the Premium subscription, you can use Gemini to create a workout plan based on your goal, and the weekly overview will prescribe workouts to follow. It's a genuine improvement. Rather than simply logging workouts, it tells you how to improve your routine and actually improve your fitness.

I took the watch out running a few times as well, and I found it clearer to read than many other devices. I also liked how you can customise the data screens to display the information you want first.

When the Google Pixel Watch 5 launched, I heard about a strength training feature that would let you take a workout suggestion (or create your own) and send it to your watch. You'd be able to log reps and sets and follow along with the workout, as you can already with the cardio workouts. Google says this is launching in September, so I'm keeping an eye out, as this will be the first smartwatch of the calibre to do so.

My only comment would be that watches like the Coros Pace 4 have been doing this for ages, and even better, you can start a workout on your watch and record the reps, sets, and rest time. With strength training more popular than ever before, it seems like a miss from such a tech giant.

The GPS tracking has also improved for city dwellers like myself, with double the accuracy in urban environments. While you may be better off with a Garmin watch in the deep countryside, for trails and city running or walking, this is a big win. I like to run through areas with high-rise buildings, and where many of my running watches have lagged or completely disconnected from GPS, this one held firm.

Sleep tracking on the Google Pixel Watch 5

Sleep tracking features on the Google Pixel Watch 5 mostly sit in line with previous models, but they are more accurate - by as much as 15% for sleep stage accuracy, according to the brand. There's also a Smart Wake Alarm. With this, the watch buzzes to wake you up at the ideal time in the morning based on your sleep stages.

There's also a new feature that provides insights into your breathing patterns during the night. The Sleep Breathing Quality metric in the Google Health app is useful if you're concerned about conditions like sleep apnea. While it can't diagnose, it will flag breathing disturbances and create a monthly overview of patterns, which you could then take to your doctor.

You'll see standard insights, including duration and quality of sleep, too. The design of the Google Health app makes viewing all of these easy to understand, even if you're totally new to tracking your sleep.

Smartwatch features on the Google Pixel Watch 5

What makes the Google Pixel Watch a great choice for Android users and the natural pick for anyone with a Google phone is its smartwatch features. Almost anything I can do with my Google Pixel 11 phone (which came out at the same time as the watch), I can do on my watch. This includes making a phone call, texting, using third-party apps like Spotify through my workout headphones, setting an alarm, or creating a route on Google Maps. It even has a torch.

Naturally, Gemini and the Google Pixel Watch 5 go hand in hand. While the AI companion was introduced on the previous version, it's improved here massively and has become scarily helpful. Proactive Suggestions is the biggest upgrade in my view. This takes into account key information like location, calendar, and messages to display what you actually need. For example, when I pulled up to the train station recently, my ticket popped up from the app on my watch so I could just tap through the gate without having to get my phone out.

It's also more hands-free than previous models. Gesture-led actions are something that many smartwatches have done before, but I've only ever really used them when testing previous models of this watch. I started using them more on this device, and then I used them for everything I could. Most often, I raised my wrist to speak to Gemini, gave it instructions (like 'Open a running workout') and then pinched to start it, pause it, and end it. I found my pacing and distance were more accurate than if I'd stopped and done it manually.

It might not sound like much, but when I started doing it in everyday life, it was game-changing. For example, one time I replied to an urgent text, hands covered in banana bread batter, without having to wash my hands, find my phone, and reply.

Of course, all of this requires setting up. I did have to play with the functions for a while, and some can be frustrating to set up if you're not so tech-savvy.

What's the downside of the Google Pixel Watch 5?

The Google Pixel Watch 5 in the 41mm case has up to 30 hours of battery life with typical use and always-on display, and up to 48 hours in Battery Saver Mode. The larger design offers up to 40 hours with normal use and 72 hours in the lower power mode.

It's more than the Apple Watch Series 11, but still, it's not good enough. Regardless of size, you still get less than two full days of regular use. I felt like my watch spent more time on the charger than on my wrist. I had to take it off to charge it regularly, leaving steps, workouts, and nights of sleep untracked.

The day someone creates a device with at least a week of battery life and the full suite of smartwatch and fitness tracking features, I'll give it five stars.

That said, I wouldn't let the battery put you off buying the device. It is the only downside I found during my week of testing, and it has more battery life between full charges than similar smartwatches. You can also get about 15 additional hours with just 15 minutes on the charger, which is impressive.

The w&h verdict: Is it worth upgrading to the Google Pixel Watch 5?

If you're looking to upgrade from a Fitbit, a Google Pixel Watch 3, or you want a smartwatch to pair with your Google phone, then it's certainly worth the jump. At £369, this device sits on par with other premium smartwatches.

If you're using the Google Pixel Watch 4, I'd do a serious deep dive into what updates you can install to use some of the newer features on your older device. You will be able to get some, but not others. For example, the new strength training feature will only likely be available on the Watch 5.

Many features are available on the Google Fitbit Air - the only fitness tracker I've given a 5-star review to. It's a fitness tracker rather than a smartwatch, and it's a band, so it doesn't have a face. You'll lose out on a lot of functionality, right down to the basics like telling the time. However, it is worth comparing for price and the features you want.

New insulin resistance features for early detection (rather than monitoring diabetes) and blood pressure monitoring are also new to this watch in the Health Guardian features, a plus for those monitoring health conditions.

I've loved using this smartwatch over the past week. The AI functions don't feel forced, and they are not complicated to use once you get going - same with the rest of the watch. It fits seamlessly into everyday life, and all are optional.

LED masks are big business. According to Forbes, the global red light therapy market reached $440 million in 2025. With so many different versions on sale, from high-end to (suspiciously) low-end, new launches need to be genuinely exciting to stand out.

Enter Shark’s CryoGlow Clinic Face + Body, an innovative all-in-one LED mask system to treat not just your face, but your chest, back and hands too. It launches on Wednesday 9th September, with the waiting list live now. The launch is ever-so-slightly controversial timing-wise, as the brand only launched their CryoGlow Plus mask in July, (an upgrade on the original Shark CryoGlow) and it does feel a bit much to release an upgrade just weeks later. Shark’s answer? They’re so proud of the new developments that they didn’t want to deliberately withhold a brilliant product from their customers for the sake of a spot-on launch calendar.

Ringing in at £549.99 for the full light therapy system, including a face mask and the add-on body panel, it’s not a small investment. So can it justify its price tag? I put it to the test to find out…

Join the waiting list

Our beauty editor’s review of the Shark CryoGlow Clinic Face + Body

Shark CryoGlow Clinic Face + Body features

As I’ve already mentioned, the most exciting thing about the Shark CryoGlow Clinic is that it’s not just an LED mask for the face, but comes with a multi-use body panel for your neck and chest, back and hands too. It ties round your neck with a choker-like strap for your chest and back, or can be turned into a little tabletop tent shape (picture a nail salon gel lamp) for your hands. There are already LED hand masks on the market, but nothing this sophisticated, or that allows you to (delete as appropriate) scroll/change the channel/eat your dinner with the other hand at the same time. One of my first questions was what if you already have a Shark LED face mask? In this case, you can buy the body panel separately for £249 (the Shark CryoGlow Clinic mask also retails separately for £379). If you are buying them individually, the only small downside is that you’ll have two remotes rather than operating them both on the same one.

Both the face mask and the body panel have three light modes: red, infrared and blue. Blue is for blemishes, and the key difference between red and infrared is that red light works more on the surface to reverse signs of ageing, while infrared goes a little deeper. It’s not as simple as just selecting your light mode though – there are 17 signature routine options, letting you mix and match programmes across face and body.

The other big selling point versus the original CryoGlow is that the CryoGlow Clinic has 170 LED bulbs instead of 160. The new bulbs are also 2x more powerful than the original, giving you quicker results with the same treatment time.

A piece of customer feedback Shark have taken on board is that while the cooling under-eye setting is a treat for bleary, puffy morning eyes, it doesn’t feel quite right for the evening. Enter the hot-and-cold contrast therapy add-on. Inspired by the trend for cycling between teeth-chattering wild swimming and sweaty saunas, it’s a nice way to reset your eyes after squinting at a screen all day.

Shark CryoGlow Clinic Face + Body design

One of the things you should know about LED masks is that not all of them are created equal, and one key element that separates the wheat from the chaff is the placement of the bulbs – you want them to overlap so no areas are left untreated, but not overlap too much to overheat the skin. You also have to be really consistent to see results, so your LED mask needs to be comfortable to avoid being relegated to the dusty back of the wardrobe.

Shark’s new CryoGlow Clinic ticks both of these boxes. Rather than switching to a soft mask, they have stuck with their recognisable ‘glow shell’ face mask design for optimum distribution of light across the skin. If an LED mask sits flush to your face, you’re just getting dotted coverage where the lights touch your skin. But if you move it 15mm away, as the Shark CryoGlow Clinic does, the dots overlap for even light distribution. Shark advises that the under-eye patches should touch the skin, which aligns the placement of the rest of the mask perfectly.

With the body panel, rubber ‘bumpers’ on the side work to hold the device slightly away from the skin. Both parts are really comfortable to wear, and although the face mask is a bit heavier than my current LED mask from another brand, the T-shaped strap at the back makes it easy to get a nice snug fit.

How does the Shark CryoGlow Clinic Face + Body perform?

According to early clinical trial data, it takes between four and six weeks to see results from the Shark CryoGlow Clinic on the face, and between eight and twelve weeks on the body. The reason it takes longer on the body is that the makeup of our skin and its oil production levels differ between the face and the body. I have only managed to test mine for a couple of weeks, so I’m excited to see an improvement once I hit the four-week mark.

As a device, it’s really easy to use. Compared to my current LED mask, which only has two settings, on or off, it feels very high-tech to have a remote to select your specific programme. I also really like that you can vary the settings between face and body if, for example, you wanted to tackle signs of ageing on your complexion at the same time as treating a backne flare-up. Once you’ve started the programme, the remote counts down to tell you how long you have left – a handy feature that means I can save my husband the horror of walking in on me looking like an extra in Dr Who by shouting how long I’ve got left to go.

My only gripe would be that it is noisy – a bit like putting your face inside a fan on a low setting. I like to wear my mask while watching TV, and this does mean I need to crank the volume right up to hear it over the top. Not the end of the world by any means (and actually another good warning sign for my husband), but just something to be aware of.

Shark CryoGlow Clinic Face + Body: My verdict

Good LED masks are expensive, and my advice to anyone who asks me which one to buy is always the same: don’t invest unless you’re going to commit to using it. It’s a very costly and quite bulky ornament if you haven’t got the patience to wait to see results. If you are willing to commit and can stomach the £549.99 price tag, I do think Shark is leading the charge in terms of clinical trials, innovation and user experience.

Your average LED mask doesn’t necessarily feel like a treat to use, but the hot and cold setting has changed that, making it much more enjoyable with instant results too. As for the body, it’s a fuss-free way to enjoy the benefits of LED in those often neglected, early-to-age areas like your hands and neck. In short, it's a game-changing mask system that’s well worth the splurge if you can stomach the cost.

I'm not sure why, but I resisted the Birkenstock Boston clog for a while. And even once I decided to give them a go, I have to admit it wasn't necessarily love-at-first-wear.

Look down, and you'll spot the instantly recognisable clog everywhere from morning commutes to airport lounges. The slip-on design and laidback silhouette have made the Boston clog a firm favourite with fashion insiders and celebrities such as Kylie Minogue and Jennifer Aniston - but are they comfortable? And are they worth the £150 price tag when there are so many Birkenstock lookalikes out there?

I've spent the last two years testing out a pair for myself, to see whether these iconic clogs really deserve a place in your everyday wardrobe. From the comfort and fit to how easy they are to style, here’s everything you need to know before investing.

Shop the shoes

Birkenstock Boston clogs: comfort & support

The Bostons have a structured feel underfoot, so don’t expect them to feel like a springy pair of trainers straight out of the box. Depending on your feet, you may need a little time to get used to Birkenstock's signature footbed and allow the shoe to mould to you.

Sizing is worth considering carefully, particularly if you’re between sizes. I’d recommend checking Birkenstock’s guide before buying just in case, but my usual size fitted me perfectly.

Mine took a few wears to fully get into the swing of them, and I needed to adjust the tightness of the strap, as at first I felt like I was working hard to stop them from slipping off.

But after that initial wear-in time, they soon became an everyday staple in my wardrobe. I've worn them on planes, for full days of sightseeing, busy days at the office and even trips to the beach, and I've found them to be supremely comfortable and easy. Being able to slip them on and off is just so convenient, plus as soon as you get to grips with pairing yours with socks, it means you can wear them almost all year round.

Birkenstock Boston clogs: style

The thing that surprised me most about the Birkenstock Boston clogs was just how versatile they are. When they first arrived, they felt quite heavy and wide on my feet, so I wasn't sure I'd wear them with anything but jeans.

You soon get used to them, and as well as jeans in any cut, they look effortlessly stylish with wide-leg trousers for a more fashion-forward take, or with socks and a midi skirt when you want to lean into cosy, Scandi style.

At this time of year, I particularly like pairing mine with white jeans outfits, as the neutral colour complements them perfectly and it's a really expensive-looking combination.

Birkenstock Boston clogs: cleaning & care

Since I bought the taupe suede version, I admit I was worried about how quickly they might get dirty. I'd still certainly avoid wearing them on the rainiest of days, but I've worn mine on the beach and in a bit of rain, and somehow there's not a mark on them two years in.

Birkenstock's advice is to "Apply Birkenstock Water & Stain Repellent regularly to protect upper Leather, Suede and Nubuck from water and dirt. Brush uppers with a Nubuck/Suede brush to pull up dirt and dust and restore the nap."

Birkenstock Boston clogs: verdict

When I consider the shoes I've worn most in the last couple of years, the Boston clog has absolutely overtaken my beloved white trainers and comfortable sandals to claim the top spot.

The contoured footbed takes a bit of getting used to, but soon provides plenty of comfort and support for everyday wear. The slip-on design means no fiddly laces or buckles. They're super easy to throw on, and are great for travelling in.

They work with jeans, trousers, dresses and skirts, making them so versatile, and much more useful than they might initially appear. What's more, the classic clog design has been around for decades, so they're unlikely to fall out of fashion any time soon.

They've been useful all summer long, but when teamed with socks and knitwear, I think these are the ultimate autumn shoe. The closed toe makes them more practical in chilly weather, but when you wear them without socks, they're as cool on your feet as sandals.

Two years in and they still look as good as the day they arrived. I've long been a big fan of the Birkenstock Arizona sandals, but I think the Boston clogs might just be top dog in my shoe collection nowadays.

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It's been a few years since the first smart ring was released. With a sensor on the palm side of your index or middle finger, these smart technologies have become a great replacement for chunky, sporty, traditional fitness trackers that you wear on your wrist.

The Ultrahuman Pro smart ring is one of the best smart rings for the technology and insights it delivers. You can get to know almost every ounce of yourself, from your sleep habits to the factors that could trigger a migraine. There is almost no end to what you can learn about yourself, with seemingly endless data at your fingertips. Could it be smaller and more manageable to wear? Absolutely.

I wore the Ultrahuman Pro ring to track my sleep, exercise, stress, and daily life habits over 17 days in the middle of the summer. You need two weeks to allow the ring to calibrate, so I saw the full range of features and insights.

Specifications

• Width: 8.2mm
• Thickness: 2.65mm
• Weight: 3.3 - 4.8g (depending on size)
• Battery life: Up to 15 days
• Charging time: 3 hours
• Material: Titanium
• Size options: 5 - 12

What is the Ultrahuman Ring Pro like to wear?

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro is bulky. At 2.65mm thick, 4mm in width, and weighing at least 3.3g depending on size, it's actually bigger than the older model, the Ultrahuman Ring Air. It took me at least a week of constant wear to get used to it. If we were in the early days of smart rings, I wouldn't think much about it. These days, however, there are rings that offer similar insights at a similar (or lower) price point and are significantly more comfortable to wear.

There's a noticeable cut-out where the sensor sits, ensuring it's always on the palm side of your hand, but it doesn't look premium. It also tells everyone you're wearing a smart ring. Some people won't mind that, but this stopped me from wearing it on some occasions.

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro is made from titanium with a coating to protect it from everyday scratches. I would suggest, as with any smart ring, taking it off in the gym if you work out with dumbbells or a barbell. I scratched this ring (as I have done with others) on the rough coating of these weights.

On a positive note, the Ultrahuman Ring Pro colours are sleek. The design's matt finish does look premium, and the colour sits flush with my other gold jewellery. If it were thinner, as I'm sure it will become in future models, I'd have no issue with it.

Sleep tracking with the Ultrahuman Ring Pro

I wore the Ultrahuman Ring Pro every night for two weeks to delve deep into my sleep habits, and I've learnt more about myself at night than I have with almost any other device.

It records the essentials you'll find on almost every sleep tracker, like duration, sleep stages, and lowest heart rate point, and so much more. For example, Sleep Debt displays how much extra rest you need to get back up to your baseline after a few disrupted nights. Restfulness tells you how often you moved during the night. Restoration tells you how much sleep was actually restorative, so even when I slept for fewer hours than normal, I sometimes saw that I got all the rest I needed.

Usefully, at the bottom, you'll see the factors impacting your sleep. On a good day, I often saw that my heart rate dropped early, I had a full night's sleep, and I got to sleep quickly. After a bad night, I felt worse, but I learnt more. For example, if I had a low heart rate variability (HRV) overnight, that told me I hadn't recovered as much as I should have, so I start thinking about what I did during the day. Eating late at night, drinking alcohol, or doing intense exercise too late are all reasons for my low HRV scores.

It's a lot of information, and there aren't as many tabs explaining what each of the metrics means as there are on other devices, like the Coros Pace 4. But if you're already familiar with tracking your sleep and you want more information, you'll have a field day.

Fitness tracking with the Ultrahuman Ring Pro

You can start a workout in the Ultrahuman Ring Pro app, or link it with your Apple Watch, Fitbit, Garmin, record on this device and transfer the data to the Ultrahuman Ring Pro app. I tend to do this as I take the ring off in the gym to avoid scratches and I'm a runner. The ring obviously doesn't have a screen to get my distance and speed data.

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro focuses on everyday movement over revealing the small details of your workout. Inactivity Time and Active Hours scores highlight the amount of time I spend sitting at my desk versus moving, whether that be exercising or simply standing and moving around the house. I can see how my daily step count compares to the population and, at the bottom, I can see factors affecting my activity score. This tells me where to improve. For me, I tend to do enough intense exercise but because of my desk job, I spend a lot of time sitting down. It's eye-opening.

The fitness insights on the Ultrahuman Ring Pro don't just tell you what you've done, they give you the data you need to improve your routine, unlike most fitness trackers or even specific running watches. On any given day, I can see what my body needs, written in a plain list.

Health tracking with the Ultrahuman Ring Pro

It was clear to me even in the first few days of using the Ultrahuman Ring Pro that health, not fitness, is the core value. After a night's sleep, you can see how your rest scores should influence your caffeine intake. You'll be told when to start winding down for bed and when to step outside for some daylight throughout the day, both based on your own body clock. It's all about gentle improvements that together make a big difference, rather than solely focusing on exercise, sleep, stress, and so on.

Jade is Ultrahuman's AI assistant. It's new and improved, and you can ask it to dig into your health data for answers. Recently, I wanted to know whether I was doing anything in my daily life that was stopping me from getting better sleep. One question and I got a full, fully explained rundown of my data history and points to improve. It's very impressive.

I wore this ring non-stop for two weeks and have spent hours looking at the data. I'd have to write a review the length of War and Peace to cover every metric I've looked into, and even then, I don't think I've seen them all. It's certainly one for those who want to optimise their routines for better health in a very serious way, right down to the nitty-gritty, or have a specific health concern.

PowerPlugs is a library of add-on metrics you can get for free or buy for between £2 and £5, per my research. These can help you optimise areas that you want to focus on personally. For example, you can get more data on your sleep, like how your screen time, jet lag, or caffeine intake impact your rest. If you frequently get migraines, there's a Plug to help you identify triggers.

You can also download other features through this platform, like a Smart Alarm to wake you up when you hit optimal sleep duration.

Even if you don't want or need all of the insights, you'll appreciate how the data you do want is presented. Graphics and information badges contextualise all of the data the smart ring takes, making it easy to understand.

Another thing worth noting is that the Ultrahuman Ring Pro has superior ovulation and menstrual health tracking compared to any other smart ring I've used. However, you have to pay extra. You can subscribe for £52.99 for two years' use or pay yearly at checkout when you buy the device.

It's also the only device I've seen that asks about parental status at sign-up, which impressed me. No other device I've tried takes children into account when analysing stress, sleeplessness or disrupted nights.

Accuracy and integrations

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro needs two weeks to calibrate before you can trust the data. I found that most of the fitness insights were accurate as soon as I started wearing the ring, but some, like sleep duration, were off by a fair amount. Mine consistently said I'd slept for 12 or 13 hours a night...I wish!

I used a baseline tracker (my Oura Ring 5) against the Ultrahuman Ring Pro, as I do with all the fitness trackers I test. Ultrahuman actually encourages you to do this by allowing connection to various devices so you can "train" the ring. Right now, you can only do it with your heart rate and with a Polar fitness tracker, but the app promised me that step count and connectivity to other devices were coming soon as well.

Although it's disappointing that the feature isn't live with the launch, it's a great sign. My main gripe with every smart ring is how inaccurate the step count is, as the device can pick up hand movements like waving or typing as steps. I hope this will solve this issue for Ultrahuman users.

You can connect your Ultrahuman ring to other fitness trackers, like your Apple Watch or Garmin Watch, or link it to your Apple Health or Google Fit app. If you're a Peloton user, you can link your ring directly to your bike or treadmill for live data, and if you use apps like MyFitnessPal, you can connect to these too for workout data.

Battery life and charging

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro offers a reliable 15 days of life between charges. If you don't pre-program your workout in the app, I've found you can get about 17 days, which is a huge benefit. There's nothing worse than having to take off your fitness tracker to charge it when you're supposed to be wearing it to bed.

This is good for any fitness tracker, with even some of the best Garmin watches struggling to reach this number of days between charges.

The ring charges in a cool metallic box that flashes a light and makes a sound when the ring connects. If you want to take the ring off and travel with it, it works as a handy storage case. The case charges with its own magnetic charging cable. When you wrap it up, the cable holds to itself and the case with magnets. Uniquely impressive for anyone like me who hates a tangled cable. Much like the ring itself, though, this is bulky, and the cable is about the same size as the charging case.

Price and availability of the Ultrahuman Ring Pro

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro is available to pre-order now for £429, with shipping starting from September 15. It's currently not available to buy from third-party retailers like Healf, but as it has stocked previous versions of the ring, I imagine this is to come.

The Ultrahuman Ring Pro lists itself as a subscription-free tracker, and this is technically true. For those new to smart rings, it might come as a shock that you'd have to pay for anything beyond the ring, but some require you to buy the ring and then subscribe to access even basic metrics.

However, there are additional fees to use this ring to its full potential. There is an Atrial Fibrillation (Afib) detection feature, which can detect an abnormal heart rhythm for non-diagnostic purposes, but you have to pay extra for it. PowerPlugs cost money, and although Jade AI credits renew, you'll have to buy more credits to ask endless questions.

Is the Ultrahuman Ring Pro worth it?

The bulk of this ring is a real problem for me. Other smart rings are significantly less obtrusive to wear. While Ultrahuman's features and insights are hugely impressive, if you want to reliably track and improve your sleep, fitness, stress, and daily life habits, you won't need all of them. You do need to wear your smart ring comfortably.

That being said, it's an excellent tracker. This is the smart ring for those who want to dive into the minutiae of wellness. If you've already nailed exercising regularly, eating well, getting plenty of fresh air and sleep, and limiting disruptions like alcohol, and you're wondering what more you can do to optimise your routine, this ring has the insights you want.

At over £400, the Ultrahuman Ring Pro is pricey, but it sits level with similar devices. This is how much you can expect to pay for most smart rings. I hope they will get cheaper as the technology becomes more widely available.

Currently, as impressed as I am by the metrics on the Ultrahuman Ring Pro, I can't recommend it over the Oura Ring 5, which offers a great selection of sleep, fitness, and stress monitoring features - more than enough to keep an eye on and make changes to your health. They come in a similar readable format as well, but in a significantly more discreet and comfortable design.

For a cheaper option, the Oura Ring 4 is also a good choice, but this is thicker than the Ultrahuman Ring Pro, so I'd also weigh up the Oura Ring 4 vs Fitbit Air.

I love trainers, but since this summer feels like it's been one heatwave after another, I've hardly had a chance to wear anything other than my most comfortable sandals.

However, with the temperature slightly dropping this week, I took my opportunity to test some trainers I've had my eye on for a while.

It can be difficult to find a shoe that's both as stylish as you want it to be and comfortable enough to wear for long days on your feet, but since FitFlop makes some of the comfiest shoes I've ever tried, I had high hopes for the FitFlop Retro-Q.

I was lucky enough to get my hands on a pair in the limited edition Pantone pink colour, and right from the off I loved the retro running style, which feels a bit like a New Balance 327 or a Reebok Classic trainer.

The brilliant thing about these is that the main fabric is actually nylon, which is a first for me. When it comes to trainers, I normally opt for leather or suede styles. However, the nylon makes them incredibly lightweight and flexible to walk in.

They'd be a great travel option in my opinion - lightweight to wear on the plane or pack in your suitcase, perfect for a long day of sightseeing, and smart enough to wear with a dress or linen trousers for dinner, too. They feel noticeably lighter than my adidas Stan Smiths, for example, and much springier. The sole is more flexible compared to the flatter FitFlop Dash trainers, too.

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FitFlop Retro-Q trainers: comfort & support

My first thought is how incredibly springy the trainers feel, which is hardly surprising since they feature FitFlop's famous iQushion™ Technology, which boasts ultra-light cushioning for shoes you'll want to wear all day. On day one, I took these for a long dog walk and a trip to the shops, and I kept them on when it was time to go out for dinner in the evening. After all that, my feet or legs didn't feel remotely hot or achy, and I didn't have that feeling of counting down the minutes to finally taking the trainers off when I got home.

It's so easy to overlook quite how clever FitFlop's designs really are. These are actually "ergonomically engineered to help optimise your body's alignment, natural movement and energy" They have natural arch support, and a great amount of grip, too, so I didn't find them slippery whatsoever.

They felt wide enough, and there was enough room around the toes, plus zero rubbing at the heel. A full day in new trainers without so much as a blister plaster is seriously impressive!

Size-wise, I feel like these fitted a bit on the small side, but perhaps my feet are a bit swollen from all the heat we've had. My usual size four still fitted perfectly, but if I were ordering again I think I'd go for a 4 and a half. Additionally, the Uniqlo trainer socks I wear with them are quite thick, so if you'll be wearing yours with sports socks it's worth taking that into account.

With trainers, I frequently find the heel or tongue comes too high and rubs my ankle, but the low profile of these avoided any pain points.

FitFlop Retro-Q trainers: style

These are not just a footnote (excuse the pun) - these trainers absolutely make outfits look more fashionable. When autumn is finally in full swing, I'll wear these with straight or barrel-leg jeans, but they'll work just as well with your best summer dresses, too.

They're available in loads of different colours and prints (including leopard!). They feel very flattering on my feet and legs, too. The shape is streamlined, and although there's a cushioned sole, it doesn't feel too chunky or heavy.

Up until now I've bought trainers either because they're comfortable or because they look good. Truly, I think I'd buy these even if they didn't have any of the comfort elements. They really are a joy to wear, particularly in a mood-boosting colour like pink.

FitFlop Retro-Q trainers: cleaning & care

The nylon fabric is so easy to wipe clean, which is good to know for someone like me, who leaves the house in box-fresh white trainers and seems to return home looking like I've been wearing them for weeks. I blame a dog that likes mud too much!

I was initially worried about how the suede would stand up to the weather, but so far so good. They are Scotchgard™ protected, but I would be wary about wearing them in very wet weather.

FitFlop Retro-Q trainers: Verdict

Overall, the FitFlop Retro-Q is a very stylish trainer that genuinely makes everyday life easier. They're supportive but don't look remotely like orthopaedic shoes. In fact, the style alone is enough for me, and all the comfort features are a huge bonus. For £90, I think these do the work of two pairs of trainers - fashion trainers and proper walking shoes.

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I'm not the only fan of the FitFlop Retro-Q - the customer reviews are seriously impressive. One called them "Feather light... like walking on air", while another wrote, "Put them on first day and went to a festival. Feet were a dream all day."

I'm impressed at how they seem to help people with foot problems, and can be worn for a range of activities, too:

"I’ve been suffering with plantar fasciitis and the trainers help with my heel pain , I’ve not had to put my insoles in them. Bought many trainers and it seems these are the best for me"

"I wear them whilst playing Pickleball and have found them up to the job. I would buy again in different colour."

"Like walking on a pair of cushions. I have rheumatoid arthritis and my job means I'm on my feet most of the day. My footwear HAS to be considered very carefully. This is my 3rd purchase from Fitflop and will not be my last."

I can guess what you're thinking. We've only just come through yet another heatwave, and now I'm talking to you about autumn jackets. Ridiculous, right? Wrong! Colder weather will be here before you know it, and I think that 2026 is the year you should finally buy a Barbour jacket. Or perhaps you're already lifelong fan?

The iconic British clothing brand makes some of the best wellies, but is most famous for its iconic waxed jackets. Loved by celebrities and royalty alike, Queen Elizabeth famously wore her favourite jacket for years, and Kate Middleton has got several variations in her outerwear wardrobe.

Until now, I've owned a couple of Barbour-esque waxed jackets from the high street, but have never tried the real deal. My husband has had one for years that I often borrow for dog walks, but I decided to finally find out what the fuss is about.

I tried the Barbour Beadnell Waxed Jacket, which features cosy handwarmer pockets, a heritage check print lining and all the elevated details you'd expect from a Barbour. Immediately you can feel it's warm without being heavy, and my favourite part is it's got so many pockets that you can absolutely leave your handbag at home if you're off out for a walk.

Barbour Beadnell Waxed Jacket: Style & fit

A hugely popular piece, this jacket design is based on the classic Bedale style, but is cut to a much more tailored fit that feels more feminine and flattering. So if the boxiness of a Barbour jacket has ever put you off, this one is for you.

I opted for a size 10, which fits perfectly, but I would say if you're planning on layering up or wearing chunky knitwear underneath yours and you're not so worried about a slim fit, I'd go up a size or two. It's available in UK sizes 4 to 22, so there's an impressive range.

A classic item, this is a jacket that will never go out of style. It works for both smart and casual outfits - either in the city or the countryside, both for day or evening. Jeans and trainers, dresses and boots, leggings and wellies... You name it, this Barbour will work with it.

It perfectly bridges the gap between polished and practical. I wouldn't hesitate to wear mine with tailoring for work, but of course a pair of leggings and your best wellies is Barbour's natural habitat. Hiking shoes or heels, this is the jacket that can handle it all.

There are five colour options, and I tried the subtle sage green. Barbour also has a very clever customisation tool so you can choose your perfect colour, collar and lining - plus you can even add a monogram. I'd say that the cord collar very much elevates the look, too.

Barbour Beadnell Waxed Jacket: Features

This is where a Barbour jacket really comes into its own. The level of features sets the brand apart from any similar waxed jacket I've tried before. It's the little details that make a huge difference here, like the Barbour embroidered logo on the pocket.

First things first, the hardy wax coating. This is designed to withstand wear and tear, and whatever the Great British weather might throw at you. The dark colour means marks won't show up, either.

Next up, the handwarmer pockets - handy, cosy and perfectly placed. There are also multiple pockets so you can leave your handbag at home. Truly, you can fit dog poo bags, your purse, your keys, some snacks for a long walk - I tested to check!

I was a little confused by the double zip front at first, and I imagined it was there solely to keep out the cold (which it really does help with). But actually, it's designed so that you can zip in an optional gilet liner for even more warmth.

This Barbour Beadnell didn't come with a hood, but the fastenings are there, and you can buy the waxed cotton hood for just under £40.

It's also full of quite literally hidden features like the cord fabric storm tab to keep your jacket fastened nice and high on your neck for added warmth. When not in use, it's fastened beneath the collar at the back (see photo below).

Barbour Beadnell Waxed Jacket: Cleaning & care

We've got a handy step-by-step guide on how to clean a Barbour jacket, but the most important thing to know is to never put a waxed jacket in the washing machine, as it can strip away the wax coating.

In my opinion, like wellies, Barbour jackets are one of those things that look better as it gets older and more worn, but Barbour also offers a re-wax and repair service to help keep your investment looking pristine throughout the years.

Barbour Beadnell Waxed Jacket: Verdict

I finally understand the hype - Barbour jackets are worth every penny.

From country walks to city commutes, this jacket does it all. At £269, the Barbour Beadnell Waxed Jacket certainly isn't cheap, but it's an investment that will pay off since you'll wear it for years - even decades - to come. It's packed with pockets that make any trip out of the house easier. It truly is the ultimate anti-trend piece for autumn.

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Whether you're gearing up for marathon training or you're just looking to build up your miles, comfort is key. There's nothing more off-putting than a knee niggle thanks to under-supportive or worn-out running shoes.

I ran the Saucony London 10km in the Asics Superblast 3 running shoes, back in July on the first truly hot day of the year, and I could have kept moving past the finish line. Springy yet comfortable, these trainers do what few others manage and blend speed with support.

I've tried close to a hundred pairs of trainers in my time as woman&home's digital health editor. I've trained for two marathons, several half-marathons, and more 10km races than I care to remember. I've also seen my fair share of trail running shoes. While the Asics Superblast 3 sit on the higher side of the price spectrum, and I'd love to see a female fit in the future, these get almost 5 stars from me.

Asics Superblast 3 review

Specifications

• Size range: 2.5 - 14
• Weight: 253g per shoe
• Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
• Waterproof version available: No

What are the Asics Superblast 3 like to wear?

Supremely comfortable and responsive are the words that first came to mind after taking the Asics Superblast 3 out for a spin. I ran 7km and immediately noticed how soft the soles felt. The wedge of lightweight cushioning means these truly feel like you're running on clouds. In the heat, I was also very grateful for the thin upper.

Thanks to the unisex fit, these shoes have a naturally wider toe box than others. I did notice that my regular size felt a little roomier than usual, but not so much I'd send them back for a smaller size.

While these shoes feel supportive when you're running (more on that later), they aren't the most stable to stand or walk around in. As I'm not used to stacked trainers in my daily life, I often find myself dragging the soles on the pavement when I walk in these. They are exclusively for running. So much so, I've walked to the gym in my Birkenstocks during this heatwave, only to change into them when I get there to use the treadmill. If you're looking for trainers you can run and walk in, I'd recommend the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 or Hoka Bondi 9 instead, or a dedicated pair of walking shoes.

What are the Asics Superblast 3 like to run in?

I felt I could jog along for hours in the Asics Superblast 3. It shouldn't be underestimated how comfortable they are. I worked my way through my 10km run, counting off kilometre after kilometre at a much faster pace than I'd done in training, supported by my shoes. By the end, my feet felt like they could have gone on longer (the rest of my body, not so much).

It's very easy to pick up the pace in these shoes. In fact, as noted, they feel a little wobbly at very slow paces. A jog is fine, but a very slow jog needs a different pair.

The Asics Superblast 3 are noticeably very lightweight, which helps avoid the heavy-footed feeling you sometimes get when trying to run faster when you're tired. They have brilliant energy return as well, so it feels like you're really bouncing through every step. Yet, I still felt stable.

The foam stack in the Asics Superblast 3 is what makes it feel this way. The top layer is called FF Leap foam, and it's been taken from the brand's line of premium racing shoes. It's bouncy and lightweight, built for speed. This is combined with FF Blast Plus foam on the bottom. This is more supportive. Together, they cradle the foot into a rocker shape and naturally push you forward.

To counteract the softness, there's also better support along the sides of the shoe to prevent any ankles from rolling in. For an overpronator like myself, this was a real win.

Who are the Asics Superblast 3 made for?

Since my 10km race, I've run several more times in the Asics Superblast 3, up to 25km, and they are still as comfortable as ever. These shoes would be a good pick for marathon or half-marathon events and training, where you need a little extra support over longer distances.

They are my new favourite for longer runs and for tempo workouts, when I'm trying to improve my speed or increase my running time. Typically, I don't like shoes made for fast workouts. They often have a strong rocker and don't feel stable enough. These don't have that problem, and I'd wear these for anything other than a truly easy run.

Are the Asics Superblast 3 worth buying?

Absolutely. While it's always worth getting a gait analysis test to make sure shoes like the Asics Superblast 3 are a good fit for your running style and feet, I would recommend these to most runners.

The £200 price tag isn't to be sniffed at, but the complementing foam layers go some way to justify the cost, and I have faith they'd stand the test of a few hundred miles.

If you're only going to invest in one pair of shoes, these are ones I'd recommend - provided you're doing more than an easy jog.

There's a new name muscling in on the best non toxic air fryers list, and it isn't Ninja. Salter's Crisp & Go has just landed, bringing the clear-glass, ceramic-coated air fryer bundle to a price point that actually feels sane.

If you've been eyeing up a glass air fryer since Ninja's Crispi and Crispi Pro made the "chemical-free countertop" a possibility, you'll know the appeal: you can watch your dinner cook, and you're not second-guessing what's coating the basket. Salter clearly know it too. They've already built a tall, slim answer to the Ninja DoubleStack and a stripped-back model for total beginners, and this new glass launch might be their sharpest move yet.

My own test kitchen is tiny, so the real tell of a good launch is whether I clear counter space for it. Out of the 150-plus air fryers I've put through their paces, the Salter Crisp & Go is the one that's currently refusing to be packed away. My family have already started laying claim to it.

Salter Crisp And Go Portable Air Fryer review

• Dimensions: 29.4 cm (W) x 25.0 cm (D) x 27.2 cm (H)
• Weight: Approx. 5.7 kg
• Capacity: 4L and 1.5L
• Power: 1500 watts
• Temperature Range: 90°C to 200°C
• Warranty: 3 years

Who would the Salter Crisp And Go Portable Air Fryer suit?

• Non-toxic kitchens looking for safer ways to air fry, without PFAS or other nasty chemicals lurking in the coating
• New air fryer users who like the idea of glass construction, so they can keep an eye on exactly how their food is cooking
• Kitchens cooking on a budget, since this delivers on quality without asking you to compromise on price

The Salter ticks all three boxes of what I'd call the holy trinity of what makes an air fryer worth buying.

First, and most importantly, it comes without the chemical concerns that plague so many designs, especially the cheaper ones that have been exposed over the past year. The non-stick coating is ceramic, and the main body is glass: both choices that take the worry off your mind the second you start cooking. It's worth noting, though, that glass does add a little heft compared with some of the lighter, plastic-bodied alternatives on the market.

Second, it's refreshingly easy to use. There are four pre-sets alongside a digital interface for temperature and time, so you're never overcomplicating something that should be simple. In my experience testing every air fryer under the sun, these are genuinely the only functions most people ever touch anyway.

And finally, there's the price tag. It's rare to find innovation and non-toxic credentials at a price that suits real budgets, but the Salter Crisp & Go really, truly does..

What is the Salter Crisp And Go Portable Air Fryer like to use?

For context, every air fryer I test goes through the same gauntlet: chips, fish fingers, roasted vegetables, a cake, and a reheated pizza, all on repeat, until I've got a proper gauge of its versatility. Most models go back in their box the moment testing wraps, but the Salter didn't. I couldn't bring myself to pack it away; two weeks later, my family don't know what they'd do without it. Even my mum, who has never quite understood air fryers (and therefore never quite understood my job either), had it finally click. She's been waxing lyrical about it ever since.

So it probably won't surprise you to hear that this is a dream to use. The control panel on top gives you a digital display for temperature and time, adjustable in 5°C increments and single minutes: a standard set-up across most of the best Ninja air fryers and their rivals. Four pre-sets might sound limited on paper, but in practice, paring things back works brilliantly. Most pre-sets are really just pre-loaded combinations of time and temperature anyway, so this doesn't overwhelm a beginner, while still leaving room to grow into a more confident air fryer chef.

The two glass containers are where the Salter really earns its place among the best air fryer accessories going. Each comes with its own lid, and the rubber sleeve on the outside clicks off entirely, so they can go straight into the fridge to store leftovers, or double up as lunchboxes for the office or a picnic. The smaller pot is perfect for a side of chips, while the larger one handles your main. The one downside is that you can't run both at once, but I found the Salter fast enough to power through each dish without the first going cold, and the glass itself is a surprisingly good insulator.

Alternatives to the Salter Crisp And Go Portable Air Fryer

If you like the idea of a non-toxic air fryer like the Salter Crisp and Go, but you want to see what it's up against, here are my three favourite alternatives:

Should you buy the Salter Crisp And Go Portable Air Fryer?

Held up against the likes of other glass air fryers, the Salter Crisp & Go offers exceptional price while matching its rivals on the most important features: a non-toxic build, glass you can see through, and containers you'll still be reaching for long after the cooking's done. For anyone who wants the clear, ceramic-coated air fryer moment without the clear, ceramic-coated price tag, this is the one to buy.

Not everyone has the space, or the budget, for a full outdoor kitchen and you don't need one to enjoy eating al fresco.. A simple, well-chosen barbecue can change how you use the space - and how often you host family and friends.

Portable barbecues are often mistakenly lumped into the same category as disposable barbecues, but the Dimplex eXtreme Crossray is far from cheap and flimsy. Modern, sleek, quick, and consistent it's one of the easiest ways to refresh your garden, giving it a whole new dimension around meal times. Bring out some outdoor furniture, pack a cool box, and you've got everything in place for lapping up the atmosphere of a warm evening.

We gave Lesley, our expert tester, the Dimplex Crossray eXtreme as an alternative to her slower, more unreliable charcoal model. She hosted garden parties, fed families and friends, and even cooked for just two on a warm summer's evening. She gave it a good grilling and here's what she thought.

Dimplex Crossray eXtreme Portable Electric BBQ review

• Dimensions: 435 mm x 613 mm x 457 mm
• Weight: 22.8 kg (trolley offered as add on)
• Power: 2200W
• Cooking Area: 2,772 cm²
• Temperature Range: 0°C to 300°C+
• Power Supply: Standard 240V
• Cooking Surface: Steel porcelain enamel grill and hotplate
• Body / Outer Construction: SPCC steel
• Control Panel: Programmable digital display
• Included: cover and meat temperature proble

Who would the Dimplex Crossray eXtreme Portable Electric BBQ suit?

• Anyone who wants fast, consistent barbecuing with none of the traditional faff: no charcoal, no lighter fluid, no long wait for coals to catch
• Hosts who barbecue for a crowd: there's enough for between 6 to 8 people, plus a warming rack to keep food hot while the rest finishes
• Anyone short on space looking for a compact barbecue that doesn't compromise
• Anyone with a sheltered spot to store it and a nearby outdoor socket, since it needs to come indoors between uses

This isn't a barbecue for someone who wants to leave it out in the garden all summer and grill on a whim - it has to be stored away from the elements and carried out each time, unless you have the trolley accessory, in which case you can wheel it out. But for anyone happy to treat it as a proper set-piece barbecue rather than a spontaneous one, it takes the pain out of the process.

What is the Dimplex Crossray eXtreme Portable Electric BBQ like to use?

Barbecue delivery day is always one worth preparing for, even with a portable model like the Dimplex. You never quite know how many boxes will arrive or how heavy they'll be, but Lesley had a smooth delivery and set-up experience.

Before testing, Lesley confessed "to say that I am technically challenged is being kind", so she made sure to have help on hand for the delivery. However, she was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward the barbecue was to assemble. "It was easy to assemble," she says. "You'll need to screw on four feet, but after that everything just slots into place. Even I could manage it." The packaging also kept everything secure and in perfect condition, while its "neat and modern" design meant it looked at home in her garden once assembled.

Previously a charcoal barbecue devotee, Lesley was keen to see whether the Dimplex could offer a smoother, easier grilling experience. And, not to spoil the punchline, but it really did.

There are a couple of practical considerations to bear in mind before you get cooking. As an electric barbecue, the Dimplex needs to be positioned close enough to an outdoor plug socket, which could limit where you place it. Also, at 23kg when fully assembled, it's also not exactly lightweight. That's around the weight of a fully packed 23kg suitcase for context, so it's worth choosing your spot carefully, or investing in the trolley accessory if you want to move it around the garden.

The temperature control quickly became one of the Dimplex's strongest features. "Cooking is easy," Lesley notes, thanks to a clearly labelled temperature dial that's effortless to adjust. There's also a probe to help check when food is done, which she says "totally eradicates the fear of killing your guests with underdone chicken".

After years of charcoal barbecuing, Lesley was also delighted with the speed of the Dimplex. "The barbecue heats up very quickly and lets you know when it's ready, so there's no waiting around for what used to seem like hours before you start cooking," she says. And the proof was in the food. Lesley and her guests agreed that it had a "genuine barbecue flavour", with chicken, kebabs, sausages and burgers all coming out nicely seared and browned.

Just as importantly, Lesley found the heat was consistent across the grill, with no hot spots or cold patches to contend with. This meant she could put all the food on at once and use the timers as a rough guide, rather than constantly moving things around to account for uneven cooking.

Having enough cooking space was another of Lesley's non-negotiables, particularly when her extended family visits. She was pleased to find that the grill had "plenty of room and definitely enough to feed eight people, depending on appetites", as well as a useful warming rack for keeping cooked food hot while the rest of the meal comes together.

At the end of a big cooking session, Lesley was happy to note that "the barbecue is easy to clean, the grill plates and racks remove easily and there is also an easily removable drawer which catches the fat."

For a former charcoal devotee, then, the Dimplex made a convincing case for switching to electric. From its quick heat-up time and consistent temperature to its generous cooking area and straightforward clean-up, it removed much of the faff Lesley had come to associate with barbecuing without sacrificing the smoky, seared results she was looking for.

Should you buy the Dimplex Crossray eXtreme Portable Electric BBQ?

If what you want from a barbecue is speed, simplicity and consistency (without the hassle of lighting charcoal and waiting for it to catch) the Dimplex Crossray delivers exactly that, and Lesley's testing bears it out on every front that matters at the grill itself.

The trade-off is portability: at 23kg with no carry handles, and needing to be stored indoors between uses near a plug socket, it suits a fixed spot in the barbecue routine rather than a spur-of-the-moment sausage sizzle. For anyone with the space to store it and a sheltered outdoor socket to hand, it's a easy, fast, and reliably good barbecue to own - and definitely worth considering the trolley accessory for a built in stand and portable addition.

How we test BBQs

Barbecuing has a reputation for being a young person's game - all that faffing with charcoal, lighter fluid and burnt fingers. So, we enlisted the help of our tester network, a group of women, who, like you, are looking for products and appliances that fit seamlessly into their lives.

Our tester Lesley, 79, from Surrey, decided to find out whether an electric barbecue could make the whole thing effortless enough to bring back into her life. "Age notwithstanding," as she puts it, she still relishes having friends round and "enjoying the laid back barbecue atmosphere" - and there's something rather lovely about the idea of "quickly being able to barbecue some sausages" whenever the grandchildren turn up.

Lesley hadn't barbecued in years, put off by exactly the kind of hassle charcoal grills demand. The Dimplex Crossray promised to remove all of that - heat at the flick of a switch, no waiting, no ash. It was an unknown for her, by her own admission: "I'm technically very challenged," she told us, "and I was worried that the barbecue would arrive in pieces which I would never be able to join together." She dedicated two weeks to giving every element of the barbecue a rigorous test to share her experience with you.

I've lost count of the heatwaves now. We've made it through so many that I consider myself a bit of an expert. I keep the blinds down, get bottles in the freezer, and have the perfect placement for my fan sorted within minutes of the forecast turning red. All of these well-practised routines are like muscle memory at this point, but there's one part of my cooling toolkit that still feels like a novelty, like a secret nobody else has clocked yet: the Dreo Misting Fan.

Also known as air coolers or swamp coolers, misting fans, are the closest you'll get to air conditioning in a heatwave without actually installing air conditioning. They work by diffusing a light mist of moisture into the air, which then meets the fan's breeze and evaporates against your skin, cooling you down far faster than airflow alone. I've been talking to anyone and everyone about air coolers ever since I first tried one, and none has impressed me more than the Dreo.

Known for making some of the best cooling fans, Dreo does design, power, and quality like the best brands. Their new launch, the TurboCool Misting Fan 765S, brings all that to the table in a tower design with misting function, a clever app, and - importantly - wide availability. It's exactly the kind of thing you want on hand for whatever this summer throws at us next.

Dreo TurboCool Misting Fan 765S

The headline feature is Dreo's TurboWind cooling system. It sounds fancy, but essentially, it delivers up to 10m/s of breeze with an 18-metre throw, which strong enough to suit even large rooms. To put that wind speed in perspective, it's the equivalent of a breeze that would make loose hair whip around constantly, loose clothing flap loudly, and an umbrella difficult to open. Obviously, you don't need to have it at full blast all of the time, but it's nice to know you have umbrella-changing speed at the tap of a button.

The Dreo comes with 12 speed settings which is a decent amount of power control. For context, most fans offer between 5 and 10 speed settings. The different airflows on the Dreo sit alongside four levels of misting (I found the highest setting the most effective on seriously hot days).

Lots of people ask me about the misting, whether it's actually cooling and whether it gets you too wet for it to be practical on any given day. Having lived with the Dreo, I can confirm that mist itself is so fine you'd barely notice it landing on your skin. Dreo's TurboCool Ultra Mist technology is extra special though: it spreads cool mist through the room to bring the temperature down without the damp build-up that's usually the one complaint people have about misting fans. Inside the unit are two mist boosters that push water through a channel, which acts almost like a natural filter — the water comes out finer and circulates faster, so you get expert-level cooling with multi-stage airflow and micron-sized droplets, rather than a puddle forming underneath.

Control-wise, you get both a physical remote and an app, and I have to admit I prefer the remote. There's something freeing about not being tethered to your phone just to change the setting. It's also remarkably quiet: at 20 decibels, you might genuinely wonder if it's switched on, right up until you feel the airflow hit you. The 6-litre water tank is enough for around 24 hours of use, and you can watch the mist coming through it as it works, with the tower lighting up in different colours if you want a bit of ambience alongside the cooling. It also oscillates across almost 180°, so it's covering the room rather than just blasting whoever's sat directly in front of it.

Who would the Dreo TurboCool Misting Fan 765S suit?

• Anyone whose bedroom turns into a furnace overnight: the combination of strong airflow and fine mist makes it far more effective than a standard fan for actually falling and staying asleep in the heat
• Households without air con who are tired of "just moving hot air around": this is for anyone who's tried a normal fan mid-heatwave and found it does very little once the room itself is warm
• People who hate the clammy, damp feeling of older misting fans: if you've tried a mister before and been put off by puddles or sticky floors, this is built to solve exactly that problem

Realistically, this fan suits anyone who's spent a heatwave sitting directly in front of a regular fan and still felt like they were being blown around with warm air. I put air conditioning and cooling fans head to head recently, but this sits in the perfect middle ground, bringing the benefits of both together. It's particularly good for larger rooms or open-plan spaces, since the throw and power are strong enough to actually cool a space rather than just the person sitting nearest to it, and for anyone sharing a home with people who run hot at night, since it can be dialled right down to something gentle and near-silent, or turned up to stir the air in a big room.

If you like the look of the Dreo TurboCool Misting Fan 765S

The Dreo TurboCool Misting Fan 765S has quickly become one of the most popular launches I've tested this year, and it's easy to see why. I've recommended it as the best misting fan on the market. It solves the two things that usually put people off both regular fans and older misters: it actually cools the air rather than just moving it around, and it does that without leaving you or your floor damp. If you're heading into another heatwave without air con, this is the closest you'll get to it.

There's a particular kind of confidence that comes from cooking over real charcoal, and the Barbequick 21" Steel Kamado Charcoal Grill has it in spades. Kamados have had something of a moment over the last few years, prized by serious outdoor cooks for their ability to hold a rock-steady temperature and turn out everything from a perfectly seared steak to a low-and-slow roast, all from the same egg-shaped shell.

If you've been eyeing up a step up from a standard kettle grill, or you've tried Lidl's Kamado and want something more substantial, this is where you'll be looking. The Barbequick sits in a sweet spot of kamado cooking without the price tag (or bulk) of some of the bigger ceramic models, making it a sensible entry point if you want to see what all the fuss is about.

To find out how it performs in real back gardens, we sent one out to one of our trusted testers, Eilis and her husband, Bob, who spent a weekend putting it through its paces. She loved how it transformed her outdoor space into a proper outdoor kitchen. Here's what they found.

Barbequick 21" Steel Kamado Charcoal Grill review

• Dome Size: 21 inches
• Cooking Grate Diameter: 19.25 inches
• Overall Dimensions: 124 cm (H) x 63 cm (W) x 117 cm (D)
• Material: Double-walled steel with a ceramic fibre insulation core (porcelain-enamelled finish)
• Included Accessories: Ceramic heat deflector, folding side tables with utensil hooks
• Design/Base: Sturdy three-leg base with wheels, built-in ash collection container, and adjustable airflow vents
• Cooking Capabilities: Grilling, smoking, roasting, baking, and searing

Unboxing the Barbequick 21" Steel Kamado Charcoal Grill

The Barbequick arrived when Eilis was home alone. As a heavy, kettle barbecue, she wasn't quite sure what to do, but was grateful for a helpful delivery driver who carried the box to her door. This isn't always guaranteed, so it's worth making sure you have a strong team on hand for delivery. Their first impression of the Barbequick 21" Steel Kamado Charcoal Grill was a good one: everything was packed carefully enough that nothing had shifted or scuffed in transit.

Assembly took around 40 minutes, which for a piece of kit this substantial is respectable. Compared to other styles of barbecues, it's lengthy, but when we've tested other Kamado-style grills, they've taken a similar amount of time.

Eilis and Bob found the instructions clear enough that they didn't need to double back on any step, although they did recommend "having a spare pair of hands and your toolkit ready, because assembly is a lot easier when there's more of you.". Their one gripe is that while an Allen key came in the box, a small spanner would have made tightening the nuts considerably less fiddly. A minor niggle in an otherwise smooth build.

Who would the Barbequick 21" Steel Kamado Charcoal Grill suit?

• Anyone upgrading from a basic charcoal kettle who wants more cooking versatility
• Those who want to roast, not just grill; the heat deflector effectively turns this into an outdoor oven
• Cooks who don't mind a slightly longer assembly and a learning curve on temperature control, in exchange for better flavour

Eilis and Bob were clear that the Barbequick 21" Steel Kamado Charcoal Grill isn't a "unbox and cook in five minutes" kind of BBQ, but for anyone willing to put in a little effort up front, it earns its keep. It suits people who see barbecuing as a proper cooking method rather than just a summer novelty, and who like the idea of one grill doing double duty as a roasting oven.

What is the Barbequick 21" Steel Kamado Charcoal Grill like to use?

The proof is always in the cooking with barbecues and it's where the Barbequick really won Eilis and Bob over. They described it as "good-looking and solidly made, with a design that felt built to last rather than flimsy". It made a nice-looking addition to her back patio and they noted "the barbecue feels like it makes more of our outdoor space. I've always enjoyed being in our garden and I love the style of it for relaxing, but having this in place made it more like having an outdoor kitchen too." She puts that down to the versatility offered up by the Barbequick, not just the presence of a barbecue. The real appeal, though, is its versatility: direct heat for classic barbecuing, or the heat deflector for a gentler, oven-like roast.

On the direct heat side, Bob and Eilis barbecued sardines and prawns, both of which cooked evenly and quickly, the sardines came out a little overdone, but by their own admission that was down to timing rather than the grill. The prawns, on the other hand, turned out very well. "We had a feast on the first night of cooking. We were so excited to try different recipes," they add, "and I've carried on experimenting with different al fresco style dinners that suit grilling and smoking - I'm really getting the hang of it."

The bigger test came with a spatchcocked chicken, roasted using the heat deflector. Eilis and Bob were impressed by how quickly and evenly it cooked, coming out tender with a depth of flavour they felt gas BBQs simply can't match. "We love to cook, so being able to get such a juicy, tender chicken was a treat for me. We can see why more impatient, basic barbecuers might be frustrated by this style, but definitely not us . It opens up a whole world of cooking." They roasted potatoes alongside it, proving you can put together a full meal without any real difficulty.

Clean-up was straightforward, which matters more than people think with charcoal grills. The only real adjustment period, Eilis and Bob noted, is getting a feel for temperature control; it's not instant like a gas dial, and takes a bit of practice to read. "What we love about a kamado is that it's not just a barbecue, it's an oven, a smoker and a grill in one. The double walls hold the heat in so beautifully that once it's up to temperature, it barely needs any fuss. Pop the deflector in and you're roasting a chicken as gently as you would in the kitchen; take it out and you've got fierce, direct heat for a proper sear. I've never had a single appliance do so much." Of course, this understanding takes a lot of hands on practice, but Eilis and Bob are confident that they're getting a good grip on it, after over one month of testing.

Should you buy the Barbequick 21" Steel Kamado Charcoal Grill?

Between Eilis and Bob's testing and the design itself, this is a BBQ that rewards a bit of patience. The assembly and temperature control both ask a little more of you than a basic gas grill, but what you get back is real charcoal flavour and genuine cooking versatility, from seared prawns to a full roast dinner with all the trimmings. Eilis and Bob's verdict was overall very positive, and it's easy to see why: this is a grill for people who want to actually get into barbecuing as a craft, not just fire something up for ten minutes on a bank holiday.

How we test barbecues

The Barbequick 21" Steel Kamado Charcoal Grill was reviewed by Eilis and Bob, who are part of our tester network. Here's a little more about why they're the perfect people for the job...

Dyson has a habit of making us look forwards. Every year there's another vacuum promising more suction, smarter technology and a new way to clean your home. But one of the brand's best recent ideas actually looks backwards, giving one of its most popular cordless vacuums an impressive upgrade instead of replacing it altogether.

Nobody would argue with Dyson's place among the best vacuum cleaners. The company practically reinvented the cordless market, but that reputation comes with premium prices. That's why I'm always looking for the sweet spot in the range: the model that gives you the latest engineering without demanding flagship money. Right now, I think that's the redesigned Dyson V10 Konical.

Most people have been talking about the new self-emptying dock, but that's not the feature that won me over. In fact, I'd happily skip it altogether. Buy the vacuum on its own and you get Dyson's newest cleaning technology, including the upgraded floorhead and one-touch controls, at a much more approachable price. After weeks of tackling Labrador hair, endless kitchen crumbs and the general chaos of an old draughty house, it's become one of my favourite Dyson recommendations.

Dyson V10 Konical Cordless Vacuum Cleaner review

• Suction Power: 150 Air Watts (AW)
• Max Runtime: Up to 60 minutes (Eco mode)
• Charge Time: 4 hours
• Battery: 7-cell, energy-dense, click-in swappable lithium-ion battery
• Power Modes: Eco, Medium, and MAX (triggerless single-button operation)
• Weight: 2.65 kg (handheld/stick body)
• Bin Volume: 0.5 litres (up to 2.5 litres if paired with the optional Auto-Empty Dok)
• Filtration: Fully-sealed, 5-stage whole-machine HEPA filtration capturing 99.99% of particles down to 0.1 microns
• Cleaner Head: All Floor Cones™ head with anti-tangle conical brush bars and a central dust illumination light

Who would the Dyson V10 Konical Cordless Vacuum Cleaner suit?

The Dyson V10 Konical is ideal for anyone who's always wanted a Dyson but struggles to justify spending close to four figures on the latest flagship. It delivers many of the upgrades found on newer models (the conical multi-floor head, green laser, and button) without feeling like a compromise, especially if you're happy to empty the dustbin yourself. There is an option to upgrade to have Dyson's very first self-emptying dock for another £80, if you like the idea of hands-free cleaning.

I think it particularly suits busy homes with pets or long-haired family members. Dyson's redesigned conical floorhead genuinely reduces hair wrap, so I spent far less time cutting tangled hair from the brush roll than I normally would. If your weekly clean is dominated by pet hair, dust and everyday debris rather than deep commercial cleaning, this hits a really satisfying balance between performance and price.

What is the Dyson V10 Konical Cordless Vacuum Cleaner like to use?

One of the first things I noticed was the new button-operated power control. Previous Dyson models relied on holding a trigger down while you vacuumed, which could become tiring during a whole-house clean. Here, you simply press once to start and again to stop, making it much more comfortable to use.

The new conical floorhead is the another standout upgrade. It's designed to funnel long hair towards the edge, where it's balled up and vacuumed into the bin instead of wrapping tightly around the brush bar. Combined with an agitator brush that works across both carpets and hard floors, I could vacuum with one simple floorhead across the whole house.

Then there's Dyson's brilliantly addictive green laser. It shines across hard floors to reveal dust that you'd never normally spot and once you've seen it, you can't unsee it. My Georgian house isn't an easy place to keep clean, with open fireplaces, draughts and, recently, a very affectionate black Labrador leaving hair in every corner. Even so, the V10 Konical coped brilliantly. Friends commented on how clean the house looked after I'd finished testing it, which is about as good an endorsement as I could hope for.

Alternatives to the Dyson V10 Konical Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Should you buy the Dyson V10 Konical Cordless Vacuum Cleaner?

Dyson could easily have left the V10 behind as newer models arrived, but updating it instead was a smart move. It feels modern where it matters most: the effortless button controls, excellent anti-tangle floorhead and laser illumination all make cleaning noticeably easier, while keeping the price well below the brand's premium models.

If you're tempted by the self-emptying dock, it's a nice extra, but I don't think it's essential. The real appeal of the V10 is that it gives you much of Dyson's newest and best vacuum features without asking you to pay flagship prices.

When we're talking about hand blenders, there's one question that always comes up: is an all-in-one system really as good as the separate appliances that do their own jobs?

ProCook's Hand Blender with Accessories Pack sets out to answer that question directly. It bundles a hand blender, chopper, whisk and jug under a single 1000W motor, promising to replace three appliances with one.

On paper, it's an appealing pitch: less clutter, less spending, one charger, one set of instructions. It also sits at a competitive price point, especially with ProCook's current offer, which puts it firmly in the conversation when you're weighing up the best hand blenders on the market right now.

But specs and marketing copy only tell you so much. To find out whether this system earns its place in a real kitchen, I sent it to one of our trusted testers, Emily, who put it through several days of proper, hands-on cooking.

Procook Hand Blender review

• RRP: £79.99 (currently £49.99)
• Weight: 909g (blender); whisk attachment 109g; jug 116g; chopper attachment 342g
• Dimensions: 40.5cm/16in length; whisk attachment 26.5cm/10.5in; jug 18cm x 10cm dia. (700ml); chopper attachment 19cm x 15cm dia.
• Materials: Stainless steel, plastic
• Accessories: Hand blender stem, chopper attachment, whisk attachment, 700ml jug
• Dishwasher safe: Yes, but the chopper attachment and jug only. Whisk attachment and blender stem are hand wash only
• Power: 1000W, with 6 speed settings plus turbo function
• Guarantee: 2 years

How we tested the Procook Hand Blender

Emily, our tester is part of the tester network, a team of women, like you, who use the products that we already love in their day-to-day life, with feedback for a review. Here's a little more about her:

Unboxing the Procook Hand Blender

First impressions count and they also tell you a lot about a brand. If they put thought into the box, it's more likely that they'll have put effort into little touches and tweaks that make a difference. This is something that ProCook clearly knows, because the set arrived in a sturdy box, and Emily's initial reaction was telling. She said it "feels expensive and like a good quality product" straight out of the packaging, noting a reassuring weight to the motor and handle that suggested this wasn't going to feel like a budget buy.

Getting started was simple, too. The attachments "click in and out fluidly," which meant no fiddling before the first test. It louds logical, but there are a lot of hand blenders that need specific twists, movements, and angles to get the attachments in place, so this was a great start.

Thinking ahead to storage, Emily noted a word of warning as "the chopper is quite big and not slimline so takes more space to store." She also noted that the instructions offered little help in working out how to keep everything organised.

Who would the ProCook hand blender suit?

• Someone upgrading from a basic single-speed hand blender who wants more power and speed
• Someone with generous kitchen storage who's happy to house multiple attachments

This system rewards a particular kind of cook. If you're coming from an entry-level hand blender and mainly want faster, smoother results without worrying too much about nuance, the power on offer here will feel like a genuine upgrade. But it asks something in return: storage space, and a willingness to hold the motor throughout each task rather than walking away mid-job. If precision matters to you more than raw power, or your cupboards are already full, this isn't the natural fit.

What is the Procook Hand Blender like to use?

On blending, this system doesn't hold back. Emily found the motor consistent and powerful, and reported that it "consistently pulverised fruit," delivering smooth results with no lumps whatsoever. For soups, sauces and smoothies, that's exactly the kind of performance you want from a 1000W motor.

The chopper needed a slightly different technique to get right. Emily learned to use "short, sharp blasts rather than keep it going," because sustained blasts pushed ingredients past chopped and into puréed territory almost instantly. Once she adjusted her approach, she found it easier to manage, but it's a learning curve worth knowing about before you start.

The whisk attachment was the weak point. Whipping cream in a larger bowl, even on the lowest setting, led to what Emily described as it having "decorated my kitchen" — not the outcome you want when you're trying to get ahead on a dessert. It was enough to send her back to her existing electric whisk, which didn't cause the same issue.

Convenience was another sticking point. Unlike her standalone chopper, which she can start with a single press and step away from, this system required her to attach and hold the motor throughout, meaning she couldn't multitask or leave it running while she got on with something else — a real consideration if you're cooking around a busy household.

Should you buy the ProCook Hand Blender?

As a piece of engineering, this system does exactly what it claims: the 1000W motor is powerful, the blending results are excellent, and the build quality feels a cut above what you'd expect at this price. Emily herself admitted she was "excited about the upgrade as it looks and feels better and improved on all other hand blenders I've had before" when she first opened it.

however, performance alone doesn't make a product right for every kitchen. Emily's day-to-day experience was that the system was "too bulky to store" and, for her chopping needs specifically, "too powerful to be useful," ultimately deciding she was "happy with my cheaper separate alternatives." She wasn't unimpressed by what it could do, but she found it didn't slot into her actual routine.

If you have the storage space and you value raw power over nuance, particularly for chopping, this is a genuinely strong, well-priced system, and at £49.99 it undercuts a lot of the competition. But if your kitchen storage is tight, if you like being able to walk away from an appliance mid-task, or if delicate whisking is a regular part of your cooking, you may well end up, like Emily, reaching for your existing tools instead.

Ooni has fundamentally re-thought how stand mixers work with their new launch, the Halo Core. Based on the way expert bread bakers use their hands, they've overhauled the design of traditional stand mixers, like the KitchenAid - and the revolutionary rethink is something to get excited about,

Ooni isn't shy about making a bid for the "best stand mixer" crown, and this time, I think they might take the biscuit (baking pun intended). The Halo Core's unusual design, reasonable price point, and clever details prove that this is a machine that could hold its own even under serious tent-worthy stakes.

So, how does it handle everything from focaccia and fougasse through to brioche and other bakes - and does it finally offer up a competitive alternative to the best KitchenAid on the market? Here's what I found.

Ooni Halo Core Stand Mixer review

• Colours: back, white
• Weight: 8.2 kgs
• Capacity: can make up to 10 12" pizza dough balls
• Settings: 20
• Material: die cast aluminium, stainless steel
• Accessories: Wire whisk, dough hook, beater, proofing lid
• Motor: 350 Watts
• Warranty: One year

Who would the Ooni Halo Core Stand Mixer suit?

• Serious bread and pizza bakers who want consistent, high-hydration doughs without babysitting the machine
• Home bakers upgrading from a planetary mixer who've hit its limits with sourdough, brioche or enriched doughs
• Multi-tasking cooks who want one machine that can go from whipping cream to kneading a loaf without swapping appliances

The Ooni Halo Core is really built for two overlapping audiences: people who bake bread often enough to have noticed the shortcomings of a standard mixer, and people who already own an Ooni pizza oven and want a natural companion piece for making dough at home.

If you fall into either camp, the spiral mixing action - lifted directly from Ooni's more commercial Halo Pro machine - is the headline feature, and it's the reason this feels less like a domestic appliance and more like a scaled-down bakery tool. Rather than have the planetary movement from the head of the stand mixer, Ooni has designed the Halo Core's bowl to move, which gives more stability and also lets the mixer move in ways that replicate a professional baker's hands.

Whilst this does focus on bread, it's not overkill for everyday use; the whipping and beating attachments mean it earns its counter space even on days you're not baking bread at all.

What is the Ooni Halo Core Stand Mixer like to use?

Using the Ooni Halo Core is very simple and intuitive. The machine comes with a wire whisk, a dough hook, and beaters, covering all the baking basics. This one also has a silicone proofing lid, for keeping your bread moist as you leave it to rest and rise.

The head locks back and lifts up and there is a dial on top, which you can use to navigate through the speed settings. There's also a digital timer on top, which is particularly handy for bread baking: it's the one function that I feel time is really key to measure.

Whipping cream: With the whisk attachment fitted, Halo Core moved through soft peaks in well under two minutes on a mid-range speed setting, and held stiff peaks without overwhipping into butter even when I pushed on for an extra thirty seconds to test its tolerance. The 20-speed dial (well beyond the usual six-to-eleven range most mixers offer) gave me far finer control for the transition from soft to stiff than I'm used to, which is useful when you're chasing a specific texture for piping.

Carrot cake batter: Creaming the sugar and oil, then folding in flour, spice and grated carrot, showed off the beater attachment's ability to incorporate air without overdeveloping the gluten in the flour, which is crucial for a soft, moist crumb. The auto speed adjustment kicked in as the batter thickened, preventing the flour from ejecting over the bowl edge, which is a common failure point on lower-torque machines.

Pizza dough: This is where the spiral mixing technology earns its keep. Unlike a planetary hook, which can struggle to get real traction on a stiff, low-hydration dough and ends up climbing rather than kneading, the spiral hook and central breaker bar work together to replicate the folding and stretching motion of hand-kneading. The "pumpkin lattice" action - the dough rounding and ridging as it's worked - was visibly forming a tight, silky gluten structure well before the machine's own kneading timer had counted down, and I could make anywhere from a single to a full batch of dough balls without the motor showing any strain or heat build-up, something DC spiral motors are specifically engineered to avoid.

Brioche: Enriched doughs are typically the stress test for any mixer, given the added fat and egg content slackens the gluten network and makes it slippery to work. Halo Core's patent-pending removable breaker bar stopped the dough from climbing the hook - a persistent issue on machines without one. The resulting dough was a smooth, elastic, windowpane-passing dough with none of the greasy separation you sometimes get when butter is added too fast. Top-tier gluten development for a dough that's notoriously difficult to mix mechanically.

Farmhouse loaf: For a straightforward high-hydration white loaf, the spiral action produced a dough with excellent extensibility and a silky, non-tacky finish straight out of the bowl, which is a dough structure I'd expect from hand-kneading at a bakery bench, not a countertop machine. The crumb on baking was open, even and well-aerated, which tells you the gluten strands were properly aligned during mixing rather than torn or under-developed.

How does the Ooni Halo Core Stand Mixer compare?

The comparison that matters most for UK home bakers is against the KitchenAid Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, still the default choice for most kitchens. KitchenAid's planetary action (the head-mounted hook orbiting around a static bowl) is versatile and well-proven for cakes, cookies and light batters, but it's not really designed with serious dough work in mind; the hook can struggle for traction on stiffer mixes, and heavy, long kneads run the risk of motor strain over time.

The Ooni Halo Core flips that engineering logic on its head, quite literally: with the bowl doing the moving and a spiral hook doing the kneading, it's purpose-built for the exact scenario where KitchenAid's tilt-head design shows its limits. Where the KitchenAid arguably still has the edge is footprint flexibility and the sheer range of third-party attachments built up over decades on the market - Halo Core's ecosystem, by comparison, is newer and narrower. But for anyone whose priority is dough quality over accessory choice, The Ooni Halo Core is doing something different and not just a different-coloured version of the same idea.

Should you buy theOoni Halo Core Stand Mixer?

The Ooni Halo Core Stand Mixer is bringing bakery-grade mixing technology into a home kitchen, and on the evidence of pizza dough, brioche and a farmhouse loaf, it succeeds. The compact, counter-friendly design means you're not sacrificing space for that performance, and the fact it whips cream and beats cake batter just as capably means it doesn't ask you to choose between an everyday mixer and a specialist dough machine. For anyone who bakes bread regularly, or who already has a home pizza oven and wants the natural next step, this is one of the most interesting stand mixers to land in years - and a serious challenger to the best stand mixer crown.

How we test stand mixers

At woman&home, we have a rigorous process for how we test some mixers not in the least because I am a keen baker so I’ll take any excuse to make cakes bread and whipped cream and call it work. Every stand mixer that I review gets at least two weeks on my countertop. Initially, I’ll put it through three tests that every stand mixer has to go through. Make a cake with the beating attachment; I whip cream with the whisk; and I need bread with the dough hook. This gives me a good gauge of how good the stand mixer is on the basics. With that in mind, I’ll move on to more adventurous bakes and cakes to find out the strengths and weaknesses of the stand mixer. By the end of my test, I'll have a good idea of who this suits and where other stand mixes are better. I’ll compare different models to give you a good gauge of what this is like in terms of value and where it sits in the market.

Two months ago, I broke my Nutribullet, and I didn't realise quite how much I relied on it until it was gone. The fault was entirely mine (a word of warning: never blend hot, or even warm, ingredients), but losing it threw my whole kitchen routine into chaos. Suddenly I couldn't grind flax seeds for my breakfast, my smoothies were disappointingly lumpy with a hand blender, and even making a simple chocolate mousse felt like a challenge. It's funny how quickly an appliance becomes indispensable when you use it every single day.

Having tested plenty of contenders for our guide to the best blenders, I've watched the personal blender category become one of the most exciting corners of the kitchen appliance world. These compact machines are no longer just for protein shakes; they're powerful enough to grind, purée and blitz ingredients that once needed a much larger machine. So when I was asked to put the new Nutribullet Ultra through its paces, I was relieved and excited. After weeks without my trusty blender, I was more than ready to see whether Nutribullet's most powerful model could live up to the hype.

Thankfully, it didn't disappoint. Nutribullet's iconic silhouette is still instantly recognisable, but the Ultra is a thoroughly modern upgrade. The sleek touch controls give it a premium feel, the portable blending cups are perfect for busy mornings, and the extra power makes light work of everything from seeds and nuts to silky smoothies. Whether you're blending breakfast before work or whipping up healthy desserts after the gym, it's a personal blender that feels as though it's been designed around real life and after spending time with it, I wasn't keen to give it back.

Nutribullet Ultra Blender review

• Weight: 3.07kg
• Dimensions: 39 x 12 x 12cm
• Wattage: 1200W
• Voltage: 220-240V
• Cable Length: 75cm
• Included: 900ml and 700ml cups with lids
• Warranty: 2 years

Who would the Nutribullet Ultra Blender suit?

• Anyone with a fast-paced morning routine: the portable bottles mean you can blend and go, no decanting required
• Batch preppers and meal-planners: powerful enough to handle grinding and purées, not just smoothies, so it earns its keep beyond breakfast
• Small kitchens or shared households: its compact footprint means it doesn't demand permanent counter space the way a full jug blender does

The Ultra is best suited to anyone whose relationship with a blender is more functional than occasional — the sort of person reaching for it daily rather than dusting it off for the odd smoothie. Its portability matters most to people whose mornings move quickly, since blending directly into a bottle you can walk out the door with removes a step most blenders demand. But it's the power on offer that broadens its appeal beyond that — this isn't a one-trick smoothie maker, and anyone doing their own batch prep, grinding oats or nuts, or making purées and soups in smaller quantities will get genuine use out of it. Equally, if counter space is at a premium, its compact scale makes it easy to justify a place in the cupboard, brought out and put away without the commitment a larger blender demands.

Unboxing the Nutribullet Ultra Blender

The packaging is mostly recyclable, which is a welcome start before you've even reached the blender itself. Inside, you get two differently sized bullets, which handy for scaling a recipe up or down without needing to eyeball quantities, along with two bottle lids, which is what turns each bullet from a blending vessel into a portable drinks bottle. It's a simple system, but an effective one: blend directly in the bullet, screw on the lid, and you're out the door with nothing left to wash up before you leave.

What's the Nutribullet Ultra Blender like to use?

Setup is refreshingly straightforward. You get two differently sized bullets, both of which double as portable bottles thanks to the included lids, so the vessel you blend in is the vessel you drink from. On the front of the base sit two touch-screen buttons — one for pulse, one for a continuous blend — and even before you've made anything, the motor has a noticeably powerful sound to it that sets expectations high.

Smoothies: I put the Nutribullet Ultra through its paces with frozen berries, spinach, ice and oats, a combination that tests both power and blade efficiency against fibrous greens and frozen fruit. It handled the mix smoothly, with no unblended fragments of spinach or oat clinging to the sides, and the result was properly smooth rather than gritty, which frozen fruit and oats can easily produce in a weaker motor.

Grinding: I used the Nutribullet Ultra to grind oats and dried fruit, and it made short work of both, producing a fine, even consistency rather than the uneven, half-ground result you sometimes get from blenders not designed with grinding in mind. This is where the Ultra's power really earns its keep.

Hummus: bullet blenders struggle with lower moisture-content mixes, but I was happy with this making a good hummus. It isn't silky and velvety and certainly more of a chunky finish.

Blending Ice: This is the one area where the Nutribullet Ultra didn't excel, but that's true of bullet-style blenders generally, so it's less a mark against the Ultra specifically and more a reminder of where this format's limits sit. If crushed ice on its own is a priority, a jug blender will serve you better.

Cold Soup: I made a pea and spinach soup, which tests the blender's ability to purée vegetables to a genuinely silky consistency rather than leaving any fibrous texture behind. It managed this well, producing a smooth, restaurant-consistency purée without needing to pass it through a sieve afterwards.

Tofu Mousse: Blending tofu and cocoa powder together is a good test of how finely a blender can break down a dense, low-moisture ingredient, since tofu can easily turn grainy rather than silky if the blades aren't up to the job. The result here was completely smooth, with no lumps at all, which is an impressive outcome given how easily this combination can go wrong.

Cleaning the Nutribullet Ultra Blender

Clean-up is as straightforward as the rest of the experience. The bullets and lids are dishwasher-safe, so there's no need to hand-wash after every use, and the main body simply wipes clean with a damp cloth, keeping the motor housing away from any water in the process.

Should you buy the Nutribullet Ultra Blender?

If your blending needs go beyond the occasional smoothie, the Nutribullet Ultra is well worth the investment. It handles everything from frozen fruit to dense purées and grinding with genuine competence, and the portability of the bullet system means it fits into a fast-moving routine without adding extra steps or washing up. Where it falls short, crushed ice on its own, is a limitation shared by nearly every blender in this category, so it's not a meaningful mark against it specifically. For anyone who wants power and portability in one compact unit, this is one of the strongest personal blenders I've tested.

There's a particular kind of loyalty we develop to our e-readers. Mine has travelled with me through commutes, holidays, and more late-night chapters than I can count - and this one has stood the test of time because it strikes such a perfect balance. The Hannspree Lumo 7.8 Reader Tablet is the first device I've tested that seems to have the perfect balance of eye-friendly screen and book-first set-up, whilst keeping the tablet features that make a device versatile.

Looking into the Hannspree, you'll see that the Lumo isn't quite an e-reader and isn't quite a tablet, it sits in the space between: the Goldilocks of all e-readers. It borrowing the best of both Kindles and Kobos, keeping the paper-like comfort that makes e-readers worth owning in the first place, then builds an entire Android tablet experience on top of it, so scrolling, note-taking, video calls, and apps all sit within reach.

The Hannspree Lumo is an upgrade to your Kindle as well as a rethink of what that device was always trying to be. For anyone who's ever wished their e-reader could do just a little more beyond fitting all the exciting accessories, this is a fresh new chapter of e-reader devices

Hannspree Lumo 7.8 Reader Tablet review

• RRP: £299.99
• Screen size: 7.8-inch paper-like display (diagonal, 19.8cm)
• Display resolution: 1024 x 768 (164 PPI), 16.7 million colours, true 8-bit, 60Hz refresh rate, 5ms response time
• Operating system: Android 14, GMS certified, fully open OS
• Front light: Smart Reading Light with low blue-light LED, auto-adjusting brightness
• Document formats supported: PDF, EPUB, JPG, PNG, and more via third-party apps
• Charging port: USB-C
• Memory/storage: 64 GB
• Accessories available: stylus pen, case

Who would the Hannspree Lumo 7.8 Reader Tablet suit?

• The reader who wants more than just a book in their bag: with email, video calls and note-taking built in, this is for anyone who's tired of carrying a Kindle and a tablet and a phone.
• The reader who moves between bright days and dark rooms: the adjustable backlight switches on for evening reading and off for daylight, so the screen adapts to you rather than the other way round.
• The reader who wants something slim enough to disappear into a bag: compact and light enough to carry everywhere, without ever feeling like a burden.

I stand by my label for the Hannspree Lumo because it is, in many ways, the Goldilocks of e-readers: not too simple, like a device that can only turn pages, and not too techy, like a tablet that demands you learn a whole new way of doing things. It's built for the reader who has outgrown a single-purpose e-reader without wanting to abandon what made e-readers good in the first place: the commuter who wants her book, her inbox and her notes in one bag rather than two; the postgraduate or professional who annotates as much as she reads and wants a stylus that feels real; the frequent flyer who'd rather have one lightweight device doing several jobs well than a phone, a tablet and a Kindle all competing for space. It's equally well suited to anyone who reads outdoors, on a lunch break, by a pool, on a train platform, and has grown tired of a glossy screen that leaves them squinting. In short, it's just right.

What is the Hannspree Lumo 7.8 Reader Tablet like to use?

The first thing I noticed with the Hannspree Lumo is how instinctively it sits in the hand. At just 6.6mm thick and 250g, the tablet feels closer to holding a slim paperback than a piece of technology, and that's before you factor in the folio case, which adds a useful two-position stand for switching between reading and writing angles without a second thought.

The buttons and touch response have a tactile, deliberate quality to them, nothing mushy, nothing that requires a second attempt, and the 10-point capacitive touchscreen responds in an instant, which makes the interface feel intuitive. If you like the feel of a pen, Hannspree also makes a stylus, which is impressively sensitive to pressure and the angle of your stylus.

Android 14 underpins the experience, so if you've ever used an Android phone, you'll find your bearings within minutes. As a dedicated Apple user, I still found myself navigating it seamlessly in a day.

Features and functions on the Hannspree Lumo 7.8 Reader Tablet

This is where Hannspree Lumo distinguishes itself from a conventional e-reader most clearly. Beneath the reading experience is a full open-source Android 14 operating system, which means you're not limited to a manufacturer's proprietary store. You can install any reading app, borrow from any library service, and download ebooks from any source you like, in formats spanning PDF, EPUB, JPG, PNG and beyond. But the versatility doesn't stop at reading. With a MediaTek MTK8781 Octacore processor running underneath, Hannspree Lumo comfortably handles multiple apps at once, so scrolling social feeds, watching video, playing games, and joining video calls via the 5MP front camera and built-in mic all sit within the same device, something no traditional ereader has attempted convincingly before.

The display itself is worth lingering on. Hannspree Lumo's exclusive ecoVISION display technology is TÜV certified for paper-like performance, using natural light reflection rather than backlighting to render its 16.7 million colours without dithering, a detail that matters if you've ever noticed banding or artificial gradients on cheaper colour ereaders. Early user feedback has been notably warm on this point specifically: reviewers comparing it against rival colour e-paper devices have singled out Lumo's screen tone as more natural and easier on the eyes indoors, without the slightly silvery cast some competitors show. One enthusiast even noted its unexpected appeal for outdoor sports use, thanks to the combination of sunlight readability, Bluetooth connectivity, and Android's flexibility, a nod to just how far this versatility extends beyond the book club.

Battery and display on the Hannspree Lumo 7.8 Reader Tablet

Hannspree Lumo's 3,000mAh battery is rated for up to 6.5 hours of continuous use, which, given the demands of a full colour, high-refresh Android tablet, is a reasonable trade-off for the added capability, though naturally it won't match the weeks-long standby of a black-and-white, single-purpose e-reader.

Where it earns its keep is in how the display behaves across lighting conditions. Outdoors, the ecoVISION panel needs no illumination at all: it reflects ambient light to render the page, meaning the brighter the sun, the crisper and more vivid the screen actually becomes, all while sipping less power. Indoors or after dark, the Smart Reading Light takes over, automatically adjusting its low blue-light output so the screen remains comfortable to read whether you're curled up at night or working through documents at a desk in the afternoon.

How does the Hannspree Lumo 7.8 Reader Tablet compare?

The comparison that matters most here is where it stands against the Kindle Paperwhite. The most notable difference is really about which screen is sharper, it's about what each device assumes you want from it. The Paperwhite is, and always has been, a masterclass in doing one thing exceptionally well: distraction-free reading, with battery life measured in weeks and a screen tuned purely for monochrome text. Hannspree Lumo doesn't try to beat it at that specific game; instead, it changes the game entirely. Where the Paperwhite gives you a closed, single-purpose ecosystem, Lumo gives you an open Android tablet with a paper-like screen at its core, colour rendering, note-taking with a genuine stylus, video calls, and app flexibility that a Paperwhite simply isn't designed to offer. For a reader who wants nothing but the page, the Paperwhite still has its charms. For a reader who has wished her e-reader could do more, Lumo is not too techy, nor is it too simple, it's just right.

Should you buy the Hannspree Lumo 7.8 Reader Tablet?

I've nicknamed the Hannspree Lumo 7.8 the Goldilocks of all e-readers, because it takes all the best bits of my favourite designs and combines them into one, hard-working tablet. The eye comfort and portability that made e-readers indispensable in the first place, combined with the versatility of a proper Android tablet, in a body that's slim and light enough to disappear into a handbag. For anyone who reads widely, annotates seriously, or has simply grown tired of carrying multiple devices to cover reading, working, and staying connected, Lumo earns its place as one of the more thoughtful reader tablets to arrive in some time.

How we test eReaders

At woman&home, we're a bunch of bookworms, which means we love testing, talking, and reading everything that we can. We started off testing Kindles when they were brand new and a real novelty. Since then, we've seen them grow into tablets, we've seen older models retire, and competitors to Amazon's own brand rise up in the ranks.

How we test each e-reader is really simple. One of our book worms (usually me), lives with the e-reader for months. In that time, it comes on commutes, long weekends, and always at least one holiday, so you get a good gauge of battery life, how it fares in an airport, and whether it's handbag friendly. From there, we can cover what it's like to read from in the sun, snuggle up in bed with, and make notes all over. Extra features are always put to the test, as are the basics. We like to make sure we cover every avenue before presenting you with a review, but if you still have questions, don't hesitate to email me.

For decades, the KitchenAid Stand Mixer has been a baking status symbol, gracing the counters of real Royalty and The Great British Bake Off to name just two. So, when I heard that KitchenAid had redesigned its beloved stand mixer for the first time in almost 70 years, I'll admit I felt a little protective. Some classics don't need reinventing, do they?

As it turns out, this one did. And KitchenAid has more than earned the right to prove it. After years of testing some of the best stand mixers on the market, I've come to appreciate all of KitchenAid's appeal, from the reliable performance, reassuring weight and timeless design, down to the curve of the bowl and its very specific attachments. I couldn't imagine what a new design could possibly add without losing the KitchenAid's very essence, but the design team really has put the cherry on top.

That's why I'm pleased to see the KitchenAid Artisan Plus' silhouette remains intact. Rather than tampering with everything that made the original so enduring, KitchenAid has refined the experience of its stand mixers with thoughtful, useful updates that make the mixer feel more contemporary without losing its unmistakable character. The result is less a reinvention of the original Artisan and more a graceful way of growing up. KitchenAid still comes with all the charm that made it iconic, while making life in the kitchen that little bit easier.

KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer review

• Colours: 11, including new Sun Dried Tomato, Wild Blueberry, Iron Ore Bronze, and Oat.
• Weight: 11.1 kgs
• Capacity: 4.7L
• Settings: 11 speed settings, including a half speed for folding.
• Material: Cast zinc body, enamel coating, stainless steel bowl and accessories.
• Dimensions: 36 x 24 x 37 cm
• Accessories: Wire whisk, dough hook, beater, and double Flex Edge beater
• Motor: 230 Watts
• Warranty: 5 years

Who would the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer suit?

• Detail-orientated bakers: the bowl light and speed setting navigation is subtle, but a treat for anyone who takes joy in the details
• Chefs who do lots of hand mixing and folding: stand mixers have historically been too aggressive here, but the half-speed setting is gentle enough to tick that box
• Traditional bakers making a style statement: the iconic design will always command admiration, and none more so than this

You'll appreciate the Artisan Plus if you appreciate the details that most people overlook. It's an appliance built on subtle upgrades that modernise the traditional KitchenAid design. The bowl light and the clarity of the speed dial aren't showy additions, but they make the day-to-day experience of using the mixer that much more satisfying for anyone paying attention.

The half-speed setting, also solves a problem that traditional KitchenAid stand mixers have long struggled with, which is the tendency to overwork delicate mixtures. If you're often folding by hand, this is the setting is a treat because it can fold in whipped mixtures and mix fruits in without too much bleeding. And then there's the design itself, which hasn't needed to change to stay relevant; it's the reason the Artisan Plus continues to sit on counters as a statement piece as much as a workhorse, appealing to bakers who see their kitchen equipment as an extension of their craft and their taste.

What's the difference between the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer and the Artisan??

Whether you go for the original Artisan or the Artisan Plus comes down to how closely you're paying attention to your own baking process. If you're an occasional or casual baker, the standard Artisan will do everything you need. It's not being outclassed here, it's simply not being tested by these upgrades in the first place. So, the Artisan, or indeed the Classic, is a savvy choice (we've done an Artisan vs Classic deep dive if you want to compare those two.)

However, if you bake often enough to have opinions about your equipment, the Plus starts to make its case in ways that add up. The bowl light matters most to anyone who's ever pulled a bowl out from under the mixer head to check on a mix rather than trusting what they can see in situ, or who tends to bake later in the day. The half-speed setting matters most to anyone who still finishes things by hand, or who's lost volume in a whipped mixture by folding too roughly. The speed dial matters to anyone who bakes anything finicky enough that a half-step in speed changes the result, macarons and choux being the obvious examples. And the flex edge beater, while not exclusive to the Plus, is reason enough on its own for a lot of bakers to upgrade, particularly if stiff doughs and batters are a regular feature of what you make. None of these differences will matter to someone who bakes a banana bread once a month. All of them will matter to someone who bakes for a living, or close to it.

Unboxing the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer

Unboxing the Artisan Plus will feel familiar if you've owned a KitchenAid before. There's still the signature, unmistakable tilt-head silhouette is still very much intact, now available in 12 colourways so there's little excuse not to find one that suits your kitchen.

Mine arrived well packed in polystyrene, and everything lifted out easily, including the four attachments: a wire whisk, dough hook, paddle, and the double flex edge beater, which comes with its own pair of silicone scrapers built in to catch batter round the sides as it mixes. The mixer itself is heavy, heavier to move than you might expect if you've not owned a KitchenAid. It's the reason that many people choose to keep theirs on the counter, rather than move it in and out of cupboards. Importantly, that weight is exactly what keeps it planted on the counter rather than rocking about mid-mix, so it's a trade worth making.

The little details stood out early on in the unboxing and set up too. The splash guard clips onto the bowl via silicone feet rather than sitting loose, the pouring funnel is sturdy enough to rest an egg on its edge while you crack it, and the stainless steel bowl handle feels properly weighted rather than an afterthought. There's a cord tidy too, which shouldn't feel like a luxury but somehow does.

The standout new feature, though, is the bowl light, which gives off a small practical glow. You'll also spot the half-speed setting, which is a nice bit of thoughtful engineering as well: turn the dial one way and you click between speeds as normal, turn it the other and it glides smoothly between them. I was relieved that the KitchenAid still has its iconic look and feel, just with a modern touch.

What is the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer like to use?

I started with my whipped cream test, which runs at the highest speed and is a brilliant stress test of raw power and motor efficiency. Both my dairy and vegan cream reached stiff, glossy peaks in under a minute, one of the fastest times I have on record, a full 40 seconds quicker than the standard Artisan.

The sliding speed scale came into its own here, too: rather than jumping between fixed increments, it lets you ease into aeration gradually, which suits whisking work far better than a stepped dial. There was minimal splatter throughout, and I didn't need the splash guard at any point (I did use it, but saw no spatter on the sides of the bowl, and pouring in was clean and controlled). All in all, it was a hit.

For the cake test, I tried both a classic sponge and a mix-in batter with courgette and blueberries, the latter is my attempt at making it healthy. The butter and sugar creamed to a pale, aerated consistency well within expectation, and the flour incorporated cleanly with no pockets of unmixed flour left at the base of the bowl, which is a common issue on mixers that don't scrape efficiently.

It is worth noting that I dropped to fold speed once the eggs and flour went in, which stopped the batter from overworking and losing the air already whipped into it. Overmixing at this stage is one of the most common causes of a dense, close-crumbed sponge and while I have no doubt that the KitchenAid has the power to overdo it, this mixed gently on setting 3. When I was adding in the courgette, I didn't need to drop the speed, but when it came to delicate blueberries, at the half speed, each berry stayed intact throughout, with no bleeding into the batter, which tells you the paddle action is gentle enough not to rupture fruit on contact. I used the flex-edge beater here, which is important for not crushing the fruit, largely thanks to the open shape and silicone edges.

The cookie test is where the flex edge beater really proves its worth. It kept the sides and base of the bowl consistently clean through every stage, creaming butter and sugar, incorporating eggs, then folding through flour and chocolate chips. It worked so well that I noticed that I didn't needing to stop and scrape down the sides because they were kept clean - and the same applies to my kneading function too.

Standard K-beaters tend to snag on chocolate chunks and drag them round rather than through the mixture, but this moved smoothly regardless of piece size. It's also worth flagging the textural phases cookie dough goes through as you mix: soft and light during creaming, then noticeably thicker and heavier once the flour's fully incorporated. I folded the chocolate through at half speed to avoid crushing the pieces, and the dough could go straight into the fridge to chill, without needing to shift fridge shelf height to accommodate it. Obviously this varies between fridge designs, but it's good to know that the bowl is a reasonable size for chilling and storing, if needed.

Bread is where a lot of serious bakers switch to a different style of stand mixer altogether, since the density and resistance of dough can destabilise a machine that drives from the head rather than the base. This is notable for how much torque it maintains under load, from a sticky, high-hydration brioche at the weekend through to a lower-moisture farmhouse loaf, there was no rocking, bouncing, or walking across the counter, and the gluten development was quick and properly elastic in both cases.

One design detail worth mentioning: the top of the dough hook is broad and flat, which is meant to stop the dough climbing up the shaft mid-knead. However, it's worth being mindful of with any add-ins like seeds or dried fruit, as they can sit on top of the hook rather than working through the dough if added through the splash guard.

What is the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer like to clean?

Clean-up is straightforward across all the attachments. They can be cleaned with a simple a wipe, using warm water and washing-up liquid. The flex edge beater needs slightly more care around the silicone scrapers, where residue can collect in the join between the blade and the paddle if you're not thorough, so it's worth going over that seam by hand rather than relying on a quick rinse.

Drying everything with a cloth rather than leaving it to air-dry stops water marks forming on the stainless steel, which otherwise show up more than you'd expect given how polished the finish is. The main body just needs a wipe-down with a damp cloth — nothing goes near the motor housing, and the tilt-head design means it's easy to reach around without disturbing anything underneath.

Should you buy the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer?

So, is the KitchenAid Artisan Plus worth buying? If you're a serious baker, someone who bakes often enough to have noticed the small frustrations of a standard stand mixer, rather than someone baking a occasional batch of cookies, then yes, unreservedly. You don't need to ditch your current KitchenAid in favour of the Plus, because lots of the upgrades are "nice to haves" rather than "need to haves".

That being said, the upgrades here aren't gimmicks; the half-speed setting genuinely solves a real problem for anyone who hand-finishes their bakes, the flex edge beater earns its place as a permanent fixture rather than a spare attachment, and the bowl light is the sort of feature you don't know you need until you've used it and can't go back. It held its own through everything from whipped cream to brioche without rocking, bouncing, or struggling, which is more than can be said for plenty of mixers.

Where it's harder to justify is if your baking is occasional or casual (the standard Artisan will do the job perfectly well) and you're unlikely to notice what you're missing. But for anyone who bakes as a hobby, or close to a professional standard, this pays for itself in daily use as well as sitting as a display piece.

How we test stand mixers

At woman&home, we have a rigorous process for how we test some mixers not in the least because I am a keen baker so I’ll take any excuse to make cakes bread and whipped cream and call it work. Every stand mixer that I review gets at least two weeks on my countertop. Initially, I’ll put it through three tests that every stand mixer has to go through. Make a cake with the beating attachment; I whip cream with the whisk; and I need bread with the dough hook. This gives me a good gauge of how good the stand mixer is on the basics. With that in mind, I’ll move on to more adventurous bakes and cakes to find out the strengths and weaknesses of the stand mixer. By the end of my test, I'll have a good idea of who this suits and where other stand mixes are better. I’ll compare different models to give you a good gauge of what this is like in terms of value and where it sits in the market.

Whether you like to make sure you're hitting your step goal and getting eight hours of sleep or training for something special, having one of the best fitness trackers is a good idea. Samsung has just added one to the list - the brand new Samsung Galaxy Watch 9.

I took this one for a spin before its August release to see what's new and improved. The feature that impressed me most was the new Vitals metric. After seven days, you'll get your baseline for skin temperature, heart rate, blood oxygen, respiratory rate, and HRV. When these deviate from normal, you'll get a notification. Instead of simply being a fitness tracker, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 joins the ranks of the best Garmin watches and the Oura Ring 5 as a device that can cast a second glance over your everyday wellbeing.

After a week of wearing the watch every day and night, I can certainly see the benefits of upgrading, but there are a few details I'd suggest you look at before you do.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 review

Specifications

• Size: 42.7 x 40.4 x 8.6 (40mm) or 46.0 x 43.7 x 8.6 (44mm)
• Weight: 31.5g (40mm) or 34g (44mm)
• Materials: Aluminium, glass, silicone
• Battery life: Up to 40 hours (without always-on display)
• GPS: Dual-band (built-in, leave your phone at home)
• Waterproof: Up to 5ATM (50 meters)

Design of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 has a sleek, futuristic design with a round face fixed to a soft square bezel made of aluminium. I could argue the bezel could be made smaller in favour of a larger screen, but I actually love this feature. In the sea of bulky fitness trackers, it adds a stylish element to the watch, turning it from a basic watch into a stylish piece I actually want to wear, versus 'have' to wear.

I'd always suggest turning the 'always-on' function off to save battery life. In this case, battery life increases from up to 30 hours to 40 hours when you do. When the screen is on, it's bright. I could read it even in the scorching sun of midday. While it doesn't sound like anything serious, there's nothing more frustrating (or potentially hazardous) than having to squint at your watch to check your pace or distance during a run or hike.

Despite the 8mm height off the wrist, this watch sits flush and doesn't clip things around the house or in the gym. However, the durability of the aluminium bezel does concern me. As far as I'm aware, it hasn't been made especially scratch-resistant, and it could lose its sleek appearance over time if it's scratched or bumped.

Tracking workouts with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

I can start a workout on my Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 in three taps. The Walking, Running, and Cycling workout modes are pre-loaded, and others are available from a drop-down menu. It's such an easy process. For a walking workout, you'll get duration, distance, steps, average speed, live speed, elevation gain, estimated calories burned, average heart rate, and live heart rate. All on one of the clearest and easiest-to-read screens I've seen on any fitness tracker.

I was very impressed by the additional features you could add to the workout. For example, a heart rate alert to warn if yours is above or below your desired range, and fuelling reminders at your desired distance. It turns this fitness tracker into a contender for one of the best running watches.

Should you forget to log a workout, don't worry. The watch is keeping tabs on your movements at all times, so you'll get a notification and a workout will automatically start. It's saved me on my walking workouts a few times.

When the workout is over, all your data will be available in the Samsung Health app. In here, I can see all my workouts and delve deep into what they mean for my overall fitness. For example, with the sparkling new Cardio load feature, I can set a goal (e.g., cardiovascular fitness or healthy weight) and see how my workouts have contributed to this and where I need to do more - or less.

The Fitness Index feature is also worth noting. This looks at all the pillars of fitness, including flexibility and endurance, and tells you where you're putting most of your efforts. I used this to help balance out my routine. I was doing way too much cardio and strength work and not enough flexibility training up until recently.

All of this is housed in easy-to-read formats with graphics and further information points. It goes to show that advanced insights don't always need to come packaged in advanced language or complicated layouts.

It's also how the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9, like other premium fitness trackers, helps women actively improve their fitness rather than just logging their workouts.

My only complaint is with logging strength workouts. This workout comes under the 'Weight Machines' profile, or you can be incredibly specific and install a whole workout for specific exercises, like press-ups. These are general workout modes. They don't count reps, sets, or break times. Given the advanced features available for running and walking, it would be great to have this as a focus in future models, as found in watches like the Coros Pace 4.

Sleep tracking with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

Sleep tracking features on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 are impressively detailed. All you have to do is wear your watch to bed, and you'll get a Sleep Score in the morning, with a plethora of data about your night.

You'll get basic sleep duration and stages (REM, deep, light) insights, sleep latency (how long it took you to fall asleep after getting into bed), blood oxygen saturation, and skin temperature compared to your baseline. These last two metrics aren't ones I tend to look at very often, but laid out so clearly in the Vitals tab, they can detect if anything is straining your body. For example, if you're getting a cold, your skin temperature will be higher than normal. On other devices, this feature has warned me I'm under the weather before any symptoms.

Otherwise, the sleep-tracking information is very similar to what I've experienced on the likes of Garmin watches and Fitbit devices. So, if it's a sleep tracker you're after really, I'd recommend the Oura Ring 5. Sitting at about the same price, it offers more data on your overnight activities than most other devices.

Smartwatch features on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 is as much a smartwatch as it is a fitness tracker. You can essentially leave your Samsung phone at home, confident you can do pretty much everything from your watch.

I liked that the watch's smartwatch features are customisable. Some give you all the apps immediately on set-up, which can leave the screen feeling cluttered if you don't want all of them. On this watch, swipe right and add the tiles you want.

Choose from Google Maps, Spotify or YouTube Music (which you can play directly through your exercise headphones), calendars, alarms and timers, and Google's digital assistant. You can also pay using Samsung Wallet with the bottom side button.

Price of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 is available to buy online from £349. You can also buy it from Amazon, but only in the all-black colourway, and from Argos and Very, but only in black or white.

It is available to pre-order now, with deliveries sent out from August 3 2026.

This is a typical price for a smartwatch like this when compared to similar options like the Apple Watch Series 11 and Google Pixel Watch 4.

Why I'll keep wearing the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

The Galaxy Watch 9 continually impressed me with its advanced-yet-accessible features. While many other devices offer similar or the same insights as this watch, few do so in such a clear way. I can see all my insights at a glance, with the chance to dig deeper into the ones I'm most interested in at any time.

Vitals is the new feature that stood out to me most. Fitness Index and Cardio Load are also impressive additions, and together, they put it up there with performance-focused devices from Garmin and Coros.

Even with very little knowledge of fitness trackers, you can make the most of everything this watch has to offer - and it's a lot. Runners and hikers will be particularly happy with the offering, as well as anyone new to fitness or looking to improve their health.

Battery life is an issue with up to 40 hours (without 'always-on' screen), but it's a problem shared my similar devices with the same screen quality, GPS function, and third-party app connectivity, such as the Apple Watch or Google Pixel.

That being said, there seem to be more fitness trackers released every week, and each one is more advanced than the last. As woman&home's digital health editor, I get to test them all. While other brands might present the information differently, many offer the same insights as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 does.

The Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro, for example, has very similar fitness and sleep tracking metrics (including skin temperature readings and an ECG). It also has a longer battery life (10 days) and is priced at £169 at the time of writing. It lacks the same AI functionality and comprehensive layout of the wellbeing insights, but is a fraction of the price.

The new Fitbit Air is just £84. This screenless tracker is backed by full Google functionality, offers many of the same sleep and fitness insights, and Gemini integration, much like this Samsung watch. It doesn't have any of the smartwatch features or an ECG sensor, however.

That's not to say the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 isn't fantastic. It has standout features worth investing in. The only real downside is the 40-hour battery life, but even that's pretty standard across similar watches with this screen quality. I'd just say, with so many options out there, I suggest weighing up Samsung vs Garmin and exploring at least a few others before investing.

There's a difference between buying a hand blender and investing in one, and it took the Zwilling XTEND for us to actually feel that difference. As a team who cooks most of the day, we've been through our fair share of cordless blenders that promise power and deliver a whir. This one is the first that made us stop and think, this is genuinely a different category of tool.

It's not a cheap buy, and it doesn't try to hide that. This is one of the best hand blenders, built for people who want real, restaurant-grade blending power without being tethered to a socket. It's an investment you make once and expect to still be reaching for in ten years, not something you replace after a couple of soup seasons.

So we decided to put that price tag to the test properly, pushing it through the kind of demanding, high-volume blending that separates a genuinely powerful machine from one that just looks the part.

Zwilling XTEND Cordless Hand Blender review

• Specs

How we tested the Zwilling XTEND Cordless Hand Blender

Before we dive into the details, it's good to know a little more about the person who tested this blender. And if you want to find out more, here are all the details on how we test blenders.

Who would the Zwilling XTEND Cordless Hand Blender suit?

• The design-conscious cook : someone who wants their tools to look as good as they perform. Sarah put it plainly: "This is an ideal choice for anyone who appreciates quality engineering and aesthetic design."
• Anyone short on plug sockets: Sarah wasn't expecting to care, but found that a cordless blender changed how she used it in her day to day, particularly when a last-minute breakfast request meant she could carry the blender straight to the table.
• The minimalist who wants one job done properly: this isn't a multi-tool, and for the right buyer that's the appeal. Sarah was clear she preferred it that way: "For me this is a bit of a bonus - in my experiences the extras are usually a bit rubbish in comparison and end up being clutter in the cupboard."

Taken together, these three types of buyer share one thing in common: they're not looking for an all-in-one kitchen system, and they're prepared to pay for quality over quantity. If that's not you, there are cheaper, more heavily-featured blenders out there. If it is you, this is very much aimed in your direction.

Unboxing the Zwilling XTEND Cordless Hand Blender

When it comes to appliances, not just hand blenders, first impressions matter, and this one definitely plays it cool rather than flashy. Sarah, our tester, found the box itself understated to the point of being forgettable, noting that "packaging design is simple and perhaps a little uninspiring, but it is clear what you're getting and what you are not," pointing specifically to the fact the battery isn't included. It's a telling observation that will become a theme with the Zwilling XTEND: it delivers on its promises and is clear about what it can do. Nothing more, nothing less.

Setup, thankfully, asks nothing of you. Sarah admitted that "the hand blender itself is really easy to put together and to begin using - so much so that I have to differentiates the XTEND from her current blender, and many other hand blenders, which is that this one has a built-in unlock button that must be pressed before it will run. It's particularly helpful if you often have little helpers in the kitchen, as it keeps them safe from any accidents.

What is the Zwilling XTEND Cordless Hand Blender like to use?

The controls are simple once they're second nature, though there's a brief learning curve. You press the unlock button first, then one of the two speed settings, and Sarah noted that "it took a bit of remembering what order they were in without having to stare at it each time, otherwise this is also super simple." It's a sensible trade-off: a small deliberate step in exchange for genuine peace of mind around accidental starts.

Where it counts, the performance holds up. On frozen fruit, Sarah reported it "worked incredibly well" If you've ever tried to blend fruit that's frozen, you'll know it's like working through seedy, fibrous ice cubes and yet, in spite of this, Sarah was impressed with the "the consistent power and blending." Teamed with the sharp blades and lengthy battery life and the Zwilling made "light work of frozen fruit without any fuss." Sarah gives it her seal of approval for smoothies and homemade sorbets, which means this gets off to a brilliant start.

Soup is the next most challenging test. Except, this time, rather than ice, we're handing hot stuff. Sarah credits the Zwilling XTEND with making "our favourite soup velvety smooth with no bits, exactly how we want it." She added that it comes with noticeably less splash than her old blender. Cordless hand blenders aren't always capable of combining power with control as well as plug-ins, so this is a rare treat. Sarah even made a point of saying that in the past, "cordless products have been lacking a little in terms of power compared to corded ones," but this one closed that gap convincingly.

As for handling, it's comfortable rather than fussy: she found it "comfortable to hold and not particularly heavy," appreciating that the handle skips the rubbery coating that tends to degrade over time, and was pleasantly surprised that it ran quietly rather than with the whine she'd braced for.

Cleaning and maintenance of the Zwilling XTEND Cordless Hand Blender

There's very little to manage here beyond the basics. As Sarah summed it up, she couldn't "imagine it requiring much maintenance beyond keeping it clean and making sure that you charge the battery often enough to make sure that it is ready to go when you next lift it out of the cupboard." It's as simple as wiping, charging and storing the blender.

Should you buy the Zwilling XTEND Cordless Hand Blender

This is a considered purchase rather than an impulse one, and it should be treated that way. Sarah was honest about where she landed: "Given the price point I probably wouldn't have picked it out on a walk through John Lewis, but having tried it out I would definitely consider buying it as a gift for myself."

On paper, the price tag (plus the separately-sold battery) looks steep next to supermarket basics. In hand, it justifies itself: powerful, splash-free, comfortable to use, and built with a restraint that feels deliberate rather than stripped-back. If you want a multi-tool with a whisk and chopper thrown in, look elsewhere. If you want one job done exceptionally well, this earns its spot in the cupboard and, more importantly, gets pulled out of it.

As someone who tests air purifiers for a living, I know a thing or two about air quality. But I've never been more shocked than in the few weeks I've spent living with the new Shark BreatheClear Air Purifier. Simultaneously horrifying and pleasing, it cleaned up all the insidious, hidden pollutants in my air in minutes and taught me how to keep my home healthier.

The original Shark NeverChange Air Purifier set a high bar in the world of best air purifiers. It has one of the friendliest interfaces and most approachable set of features out of the many (many, many) models I've tested over the years. But the Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 takes things up a whole new level.

It comes with filters that last up to 6 years without a single change, exceeds HEPA standards, and offers real-time feedback on air quality. I accidentally tanked my air quality rating to 0 (the lowest) and watched the BreatheClear restore it to a refreshing breeze in under 5 minutes. Is it an air quality hero? That might be an understatement.

Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 Air Purifier review

Who would the Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 Air Purifier suit?

• Large or high-traffic rooms: Coverage of up to 70m² means it isn't a stretch for bigger, busier spaces, and its sensors check air quality 3,600 times an hour to keep pace with high footfall.
• Super-sensitive people: Exceeding HEPA filter standards with multiple stages of filtration, this is built for anyone with allergies, asthma, or a low tolerance for household pollutants.
• Long-term investors: With filters that last up to 6 years and a saving of up to £220 on replacements, this is one for anyone who'd rather pay once and forget about it.

Whether you're battling dust in a big open-plan living room, dealing with allergies that flare at the smallest provocation, or just tired of forking out for filter replacements every few months, the BreatheClear has an answer. It's flexible enough to handle demanding spaces without breaking a sweat, thorough enough for the most sensitive noses, and cost-effective enough to make the upfront price feel like an investment rather than an expense

Unboxing the Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 Air Purifier

Shark is the brand to beat when it comes to packaging. Sustainable, efficient, and self-explanatory, the Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 Air Purifier is a joy to unbox and I say that as someone who opens products for a living. Every element of the packaging can be dismantled and put into the recycling, except for the stickers, which sit helpfully on the air purifier itself to guide you through setup. It's rare for a box to keep packaging to a minimal and even rarer for all of that to be sustainably disposed of, so the Shark scores 5/5 from the get-go.

An instruction manual is included, and it does contain handy tips and tricks for getting the most out of your model, including where to put your air purifier, but you won't need it for a quick start. The only extra step involves the HEPA filter, which arrives wrapped in plastic to keep it fresh. To remove this, you'll need to take off the base of the Shark. If you want full visibility on how everything goes back together, it's also worth removing the debris defence washable filter at this stage, though sliding it back into place afterwards is a simple process either way.

Once the plastic is off, a sticker on the front will remind you not to skip this step, the Shark is ready to go. And here's how it went.

What is the Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 Air Purifier like to use?

As with everything SharkNinja, this air purifier is easy to use. On top of the unit sits a control panel that lets you power the Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 on and off, access settings, check your air quality metrics, and scroll through the menu. All of these functions visible from the front of the machine. The response time for the touch screen is instant and the buttons are pressure-sensitive, so a light touch is all it takes to activate any function.

There's real variation in how air purifiers surface their metrics. Most brands push this to an app, which suits the tech-minded but can feel fiddly and unnecessary day to day. A built-in screen with real-time feedback and onboard controls suits my testing style far better and having it front-facing means I can read the room's air quality index (AQI) from any angle, rather than hovering over the unit for an update.

At baseline, my room's air quality reads 96/100 on the Shark's index. I don't want to brag, but I earn that score: four air-purifying plants, a natural air purifier, and a steady cross-breeze are already doing their part. So a 96 was a pleasing starting point and within 4 minutes, the Shark had brought me to a flawless 100. That's an impressive baseline recovery speed before we even get into the stress tests.

But day to day, ahead of the more intensive trials, I loved living with this. The futuristic build doesn't exactly disappear into the background, but it's quiet, efficient, and excellent at keeping the air moving. The motion and light sensors are standout features: the display dims as the sun sets or the room lights go off, and the unit senses movement and ramps up purification in response. It read my day-to-day activity well, and I felt reassured it was actively working rather than just idling. Now, onto the stress tests.

The first (and most horrifying) is my candle test. I love candles; they're in every room of my home, lit for every occasion. I always choose natural waxes and wicks to protect my air quality, and when I blow one out, I typically open a window and run my Dyson Air Purifier to clear the smoke. It complains, but it gets there.

With the Shark running in the background, I watched my air quality plummet to 1/100 as the candle smoked. It wasn't the flame itself that did the damage. While lit, the reading held around 40/100. It was the plume of smoke after blowing it out that caused the score to plummet. I was initially alarmed by how sharp the drop was, but then impressed: within 4 minutes the Shark had already recovered to 80/100, and by 5 minutes 17 seconds, the reading was back to a clean 100. I could still detect a faint trace of fragrance and smoke in the room, but noticeably lighter, and the Shark, by all appearances, was rather pleased with itself.

Next: sprays and aerosols. Alongside candles, I'm heavy on fragrance, and I know from experience that a makeup routine with setting spray sends a fine mist of powders, particles, and volatile compounds into the air. The Shark clocked it too, dropping to 61/100 as I sprayed, brushed, and blended beside it. Recovery was near-instant though and within the minute, it had climbed back to a solid 87/100. As with the candle test, I could still smell the fragrance lingering, but at a fraction of the intensity.

My final test: burnt food, one of the most common real-world triggers for poor indoor air quality. A single piece of burnt toast dropped the reading to 58/1oo a steeper fall than I expected, even knowing the numbers going in. What impressed me more was the recovery: within 2 minutes, the air quality had climbed back to 92/100. That was one piece of toast in one room, but at that recovery speed, I'd trust it to handle a bigger kitchen mishap too.

I've also run it overnight in the bedroom with the windows shut, and the results held up: quiet enough to sleep through, and consistently strong at maintaining a high air quality reading through the night.

Cleaning and maintaining the Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 Air Purifier

Air purifiers are generally low maintenance, and the Shark BreatheClear is no exception. The main element that demands any attention at all is the filter, and this is where Shark's design team deserves credit. The Debris Defence system is a fine mesh pre-filter that catches larger particles (pollen, pet hair, dust) before they ever reach the main HEPA filter, protecting its performance and extending its lifespan. It's washable, so a quick rinse whenever it looks visibly clogged is all it needs to keep working at full capacity; just make sure it's fully dry before sliding it back into place.

As for the main filter itself, it's this Debris Defence layer doing the heavy lifting that allows Shark to estimate up to 6 years of use without a filter change. As a newly released product, I haven't had the runway to sense-check that claim myself yet, but watch this space.

Beyond the filter, upkeep is minimal: a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the exterior and display screen is really all you need to keep it looking as good as it performs. If you want a deeper dive into best practice for keeping any air purifier running at its best, we've got a full guide here.

How does the Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 Air Purifier compare?

The Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 builds on the original NeverChange formula rather than reinventing it, but the upgrades are meaningful. The filter guarantee has stretched from 5 years to 6, pushing the potential saving on replacement filters even further. Sensing has had a real overhaul too: where the original NeverChange relied on Clean Sense IQ to track particulate levels, the BreatheClear scans the air 3,600 times an hour and automatically adjusts power in response to particles, movement, and VOCs, a faster, more proactive approach to purification. Motion and light detection are new additions as well, dimming the display in low light and boosting purification the moment activity is detected, which the original model didn't offer.

One thing that has been dropped: Odor Neutralizer Technology, a feature on the original NeverChange that released a fresh scent to mask household odours. If that's a feature you relied on, it's worth noting it isn't carried over.

If you already own a NeverChange and it's doing its job, this isn't an urgent swap. The core promise of long-life, HEPA-exceeding filtration is present in both. But anyone weighing up the two fresh is better off with the BreatheClear: the faster, more responsive sensing and motion-aware purification make it noticeably better suited to busy, high-traffic homes, and the extra year of filter life sweetens the long-term running costs further still. The exception is anyone who specifically valued the Odor Neutralizer scent-masking, for them, the original NeverChange may still hold appeal until (or unless) Shark reintroduces that feature in a future model.

Should you buy the Shark BreatheClear with NeverChange6 Air Purifier?

There are some big, bold claims that come with this air purifier: 6 years without a filter change, 99.98% particle capture, 3,600 air scans an hour. And I think it actually lives up to them. Across every test, my air quality was restored quickly and kept exceptionally high, which proves those scans are doing real work: the Shark anticipates drops and counters them, delivering some of the quickest, most thorough cleaning I've seen to date. Not everyone needs this level of purification, but if you're air quality conscious, this is a breath of fresh air.

How we test air purifiers

At woman&home we have a rigorous series of tests that each air purifier has to go through to secure itself a spot amongst the best models on offer on our site. We test it on smoke, perfumes, and food smells, as well as assessing how it looks, what it's like to use, and how it compares to other models on the market.

If you want to read more, you can see our page on how we test air purifiers.

I'm always asked about steam cleaners. Are they worth the hype? Do you really not need chemicals? And are the cheaper models any good, or are you better off saving for a premium name? Having tested these machines almost non-stop for a year, I've found that when they work, they really do work: a scalding blast of water vapour lifts grease, grime and bacteria like magic. However, plenty of models are heavy, limited to a single function, or carry a price tag that's hard to justify for something that lives in a cupboard most of the year.

The Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner is a little different. At under £50, it's one of the most affordable steam cleaners we've tested, yet it comes with a generous bundle of accessories that turn it from a simple floor cleaner into a window cleaner, grout scrubber and handheld tool.

"For the price, I genuinely wasn't expecting this much kit in the box," says our tester Liz, who put the Beldray through its paces over several weeks. She looked into the long accessory list as well as the performance, testing to find out whether a budget steam cleaner could really compete with pricier, more elaborate models, or whether the savings come at the cost of steam pressure, build quality or ease of use.

Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner review

• RRP: £47.99
• Dimensions: 26.5 x 15 x 26.6 cm
• Weight: 2 kg
• Power: 1,350 watts
• Cord length: 5m
• Water tank capacity: 550ml
• Accessories/attachments: floor mop, handheld, garment steamer
• Warranty: 1 year

How we test steam cleaners

Before we get into the details of this Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner review, here's some backstory behind the person who tested this steam cleaner. She's part of our Tester Network, where readers, like you, review products that we think you'll love. If you want to read more about how we test steam cleaners in our home, we also have a page which does a deep dive on the details.

Who would the Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner suit?

• First time users who want versatility: with 15 different attachments for various jobs and a low price point, it's an affordable way to test whether this suits you
• Homes with hard floors: especially those with children or pets bringing dirt indoors.
• People who want to tackle awkward cleaning jobs: from grubby grout to windows and upholstery, without buying multiple appliances.

If you've been curious about steam cleaning but can't justify spending well over £100, the Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner is probably the model you have in your basket. It packs impressive versatility into a surprisingly affordable package, converting from a traditional steam mop into a handheld cleaner, with attachments for everything from windows and mirrors to upholstery and grout. As a result, the Beldray promises a lot of functionality for under £50, making it a sensible choice for anyone who wants one appliance that can tackle a whole house clean.

Our tester, Liz, found that versatility paid off in everyday life. "If you have hard floors, a steam mop is an essential cleaning tool for quickly and effortlessly cleaning and sanitising your floors," she says. "This is especially useful if you have kids and pets leaving muddy footprints." She also loved how the handheld attachments transformed some of the most tedious cleaning jobs: "Being able to easily clean grouting, such as on well-worn floors or in grubby bathrooms or kitchens, is also a godsend, saving you from endless scrubbing." It's this combination of practicality, value and useful accessories that makes the Beldray feel like a good budget buy.

Unboxing the Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner

Given the Beldray's low price point, we weren't expecting a luxury unboxing experience, but I did want the setup to be straightforward. After all, a steam cleaner should make life easier from the moment it arrives. While the generous collection of attachments immediately hints at its versatility, there are a few frustrations before you can get cleaning.

Liz's first impressions were mixed. "Unfortunately, the box fell apart when I was taking it out of the delivery box it had arrived in. The glue had failed at the side," she says, adding that this was disappointing because many people will want to store the cleaner and its accessories in the original packaging.

Thankfully, assembling the cleaner itself proved much simpler. "The steam cleaner was fairly intuitive to set up," she explains. Her biggest frustration came when fitting the microfibre pad to the mop head. "If you have ever tried to fit a tight fitted sheet onto a mattress, you will know my pain. It pinged across the room more than once." Once she'd realised the protective carpet glider needed removing, the process became clearer, although she still found fitting the cover fiddly and easy to catch her fingers on. Fortunately, these are all one-off setup niggles rather than problems that affect everyday cleaning.

What is the Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner like to use?

The Beldray 15-in-1 is great on a fundamental level. It's lightweight enough to carry from room to room and the generous five-metre cord gives you plenty of reach before you need to swap sockets. However, its multi-functional design means it's not quite as refined as dedicated steam mops we've tested. The body feels slightly top-heavy and, while most of the attachments click reassuringly into place, we found they don't always stay there. Liz experienced several occasions where sections untwisted or even popped off under the pressure of the steam, which interrupted cleaning more than we'd have liked.

In use, however, the Beldray really won us over. It heats up in around 20 seconds (if not a little quicker) and produces an impressively generous amount of steam for such an affordable model. "The mop pumps out a lot of steam, which is quite satisfying and is especially useful if you have tough areas to clean," says Liz. We were also pleasantly surprised by how well it maintained its cleaning power when converted into the handheld unit with the longer hose attachments, although the steam does tend to arrive in short bursts rather than a constant flow. It's a little noisier than some premium models, but that's largely because you can hear the powerful steam output working hard.

On Liz's well-used cream stone kitchen floor, it quickly lifted everyday dirt and made light work of a weeks-old blob of sticky jam. She noted that it was "also surprising how powerful it is given the long distance from cleaner to mop head the steam must travel when the longer hose attachments are on."

The grout tool was also effective, restoring discoloured floor grout to its original cream colour, showcasing versatility across the attachments. As Liz pointed out, "tackling grout first is definitely the way to go, as the tool blasts out an impressive amount of hidden dirt."

So, if you're going to be using yours for floor cleaning and grout-refreshing, the Beldray is well worth considering, then the extra attachments act as useful bonuses rather than must-have features.

It is worth noting, however, that there are a few other compromises that come with its budget price. Whilst we appreciate the secure fit of the washable cleaning pad, it's much more fiddly than the Velcro alternatives used by many rival steam mops. Liz found that "other steam mops I have owned have had Velcro pads. This means they are quick and easy to remove with one hand mid-way through cleaning if you want to attach a new pad or rinse out the existing one." She also noted that, although the Beldray's cover "may have stayed in place better than other steam mops I've owned, it was fiddly to get on and off."

We were less convinced by some of the specialist attachments: the under-rim toilet cleaner couldn't shift stubborn limescale without extra scrubbing, and while the garment steamer worked well, Liz admitted she would still reach for her iron, as a more traditional and powerful appliance to use on any fabric.

Cleaning the Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner

One of the advantages of a steam cleaner is that there's very little maintenance once you've finished cleaning, and the Beldray is no exception. We always look for appliances that are easy to keep in good condition, because the less faff involved, the more likely you are to use them regularly. Thankfully, emptying and cleaning the Beldray takes just a few minutes.

Liz found that there was very little to do after each cleaning session. "I simply tipped out the remaining water from the main unit and ran the attachments under the tap to rinse them," she says, whilst the reusable microfibre cover can be popped straight into the washing machine. As with most white cleaning cloths, though, don't expect it to stay pristine forever. Liz also noticed that the elastic began to pull away from the towelling after she'd struggled to fit the cover during setup, although she believes this was caused by her initial attempts rather than normal use.

As with any steam cleaner, ongoing maintenance is just as important as day-to-day cleaning. If you live in a hard water area, like Liz, it's worth running a steam cleaner-compatible descaling solution through the machine around once a month to prevent limescale from affecting its performance. Stay on top of that, and there's very little else to think about, making the Beldray a refreshingly low-maintenance appliance to own.

Should you buy the Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner?

The Beldray 15-in-1 Steam Cleaner is an ambitious budget appliance that packs an impressive number of attachments into a compact, affordable package. For occasional deep-cleaning jobs, particularly restoring grubby grout, tackling stubborn stains and reaching awkward corners, it delivers results that belie its price tag. It's also compact enough to tuck away in a cupboard without taking up too much valuable storage space.

That said, we think most people will spend far more time cleaning floors than refreshing grout, and it's here that the Beldray doesn't quite match the polish of the best steam mops we've tested. While it cleans effectively, the awkward handling, fiddly design and concerns over durability mean it isn't the effortless cleaning companion we'd hoped for. If your priority is versatility on a tight budget and you don't mind a few compromises, there's still value to be found here. However, if you want a steam cleaner you'll reach for every week, we'd recommend investing a little more in a model that's smoother, sturdier and more enjoyable to use.

The outlook on body hair has certainly changed in recent years, and yet, the global hair removal market was worth more than $29 billion in 2025, proof that many of us are still hellbent on removing every last trace of it.

Since my teens, I’ve used everything from bleach, stinky depilatory creams and the best razors, to more painful options promising longer-lasting results - epilators, roll-on electric waxers, and in-clinic laser hair removal. Without a doubt, the latter has been the most successful, but salon appointments add up and demand time and dedication.

So when I found out Tria was launching a brand new upgraded version of their laser hair removal device, promising long-term hair reduction from the comfort and privacy of your own home, the prude in me was ecstatic.

At almost £600, it’s not cheap, but this is clinic-grade laser tech. The before and after images online are compelling, but would it work for this dark-haired girl? After testing it for the last two months, this Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser review will cover the pros, cons and those all-important results.

Our Beauty Editor’s Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser review, with before and after pictures

On first impression, this second generation of the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser looks a lot more professional than its predecessor, which was white and a bit plastic-y. This looks slicker with a gunmetal makeover and a thicker, sturdier shell.

According to Tria, this helps to improve thermal performance, but it also helps to give the impression that this is a serious tool that will yield real results. It’s been upgraded with an LCD, which shows the battery life, the laser levels from 1-5, and a running count of laser pulses for each session.

In the box you’ll find refreshingly little - a charging cable, various plug adaptors, and some instructions, tucked neatly beneath the device. After charging, the device remains in locked mode until the sensor approves your skin tone for use. You switch it on and hold the skin sensor, located on the base of the device, against your skin. If your skin tone is compatible, the device will unlock with a beep, and you’re good to go.

How does the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser work?

There are a lot of hair removal devices on the market, but the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser operates at the same 810nm wavelength used in clinics. This precision diode laser technology should not be confused with IPL tools (intense pulse light), which are not as effective as laser.

In fact, the Tria laser delivers up to 233 per cent more power than some leading IPL devices, owing to deeper penetration and targeted energy delivery, so if you’re weighing up the two, I’d put my money into the laser.

The Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser targets the pigment in your hair. This melanin absorbs the laser energy and converts it to heat in the follicle to destroy the root. That’s why the most successful combination for effective treatment is lighter skin with dark hair. The device picks up the contrast more easily.

It’s also why the device is not safe on darker skin tones and is ineffective on lighter hair shades. For medium brown, dark brown and black skin tones, it’s best to visit a professional who can use specific wavelengths to safely and effectively target hairs.

As the root is destroyed, hair regrowth becomes finer and lighter. With continued treatment, you can expect to see fewer hairs reappearing, and then once the hair follicle has been deactivated, hair will not grow back at all.

How to use the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser

First things first, you need to shave the area you wish to treat. Your razor is going to become your best friend during your relationship with the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser. Waxing, epilating and any other treatments that drag the root kicking and screaming from its follicle will hinder the results. The laser needs the root to be in tact in order to disable it.

Skin should be clean and dry, then it’s time to get zapping. It really couldn’t be easier to use. Select your treatment level from one to five, using the highest setting you can tolerate. Obviously pain is subjective, but I’ve found it pinchy at worst with no subsequent redness, and that’s using the highest setting. However, Tria does recommend applying the Phytograph Hydrating Calm Soothing Gel before using the device to help minimise discomfort.

Once the level is set, hold the device against your skin making sure the treatment window is pressed flat until you hear two beeps - that means the pulse has worked and you can move on to the next spot.

Laser hair removal on the face is quick - I’ve found I can do my upper lip in about 60 seconds. Elsewhere, armpits have taken less than five minutes. But because of the small treatment tip, larger areas like the legs will take much longer. Tria recommends repeating the treatment every two weeks for up to three months.

Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser: my verdict

After about two months, and three treatments on my upper lip, there has been headway. I didn’t notice much change after the first session, but now I can definitely see that the hair is finer, patchier, and not quite so dark. It’s by no means bald, but I’m sufficiently buoyed by the results that I feel compelled to carry on for the six session minimum Tria recommends.

It's a big outlay for the device, and certainly in-clinic laser hair removal treatments have become more affordable over the last few years. But I really appreciate that I can use the Tria whenever, wherever. I don’t have to schlep to the clinic, or bear the embarrassment of de-robing in front of a stranger, depending on where you’re choosing to de-fuzz. For ease of use and convenience, this is a fantastic option for long-term hair reduction.

When it comes to kitchen gadgets, the most useful ones are often the ones that you hardly notice, because they sit so seamlessly into your routine. A hand blender might not be the most exciting purchase, but a good one can be like having a sous chef to make silky soups and homemade sauces whilst also handling quick chopping and mashing from one handle.

Not all hand blenders are made equal, so finding the best hand blender is about more than just looking at the power; it needs to be comfortable to use, versatile enough to tackle different jobs and reliable enough to reach for time and time again. The Morphy Richards Hand Blender aims to tick all three boxes, combining a stainless steel blending attachment with a chopping bowl, potato masher and balloon whisk to create an all-in-one appliance designed to replace several single-purpose tools.

We wanted to put paper claims to the proper test in our kitchens, so asked Sarah, a passionate home cook and baker who spends hours experimenting in the kitchen, to put it through its paces. As someone who has tested plenty of gadgets over the years (and knows exactly when something deserves permanent cupboard space) Sarah was impressed by its versatility, although she found some attachments more successful than others.

How we test hand blenders

Unboxing the Morphy Richards Hand Blender Set

The Morphy Richards Hand Blender makes a good first impression straight out of the box. Each attachment is individually wrapped and clearly labelled, making it easy to identify the different components before you start cooking. The setup process is simple too, with a straightforward instruction manual that gets you up and running quickly, which exactly what you want from an appliance designed around convenience.

Sarah was particularly impressed by the solid feel of the main attachments. "The hand blender and chopping bowl felt sturdy straight away," she says. The whisk attachment, however, didn't inspire quite the same confidence, feeling noticeably lighter and less robust in comparison. This is something worth bearing in mind if you're planning to use the appliance regularly for baking, where a more powerful and durable whisk can make a difference.

One of the biggest positives for Sarah was the lightweight design. Having spent years cooking and testing kitchen gadgets, she knows that comfort matters just as much as performance, especially when you're holding an appliance for longer periods. "The appliance feels pleasantly light to use, which was a bonus for me as I have arthritis in my thumbs and wrists," she explains.

For anyone who struggles with heavier kitchen appliances, this is a real advantage. The Morphy Richards Hand Blender is definitely designed for everyday use, with a comfortable grip and manageable weight that makes blending, chopping and mashing feel far less of a chore. It may not have the most premium feel across every attachment, but the thoughtful design means it should suit cooks who want a practical, easy-to-handle appliance rather than another bulky gadget taking up space in the kitchen.

What's the Morphy Richards Hand Blender Set like to use?

The Morphy Richards Hand Blender is at its best when tackling everyday cooking jobs. The stainless steel hand blender delivers smooth results, whether you're blending soups, sauces or vegetables, while the chopping bowl takes the hard work out of prep. The potato masher is another welcome addition, which isn't a guarantee with all hand blender sets. It made light work of fluffy mash without the elbow grease. Sarah found that it's only the balloon whisk that feels less convincing, lacking the power and stability needed for more demanding baking tasks.

The hand blender quickly became Sarah's favourite attachment. "It was the star of the show," she says. "It transformed my frozen home-grown tomatoes into a beautifully velvety sauce that honestly looked and tasted restaurant-quality." She's used it for pasta and pizzas alike and thinks even an Italian would give it a thumbs up.

The chopping bowl also proved itself in day-to-day cooking. Sarah, who cooks from scratch most days, noted that when making salsa, she "really appreciated how quickly and efficiently the chopping bowl tackled onions, garlic and chilli," she says. "It feels like a labour-saving gadget." The potato masher is equally successful, producing smooth, creamy mash in seconds. "The potato masher worked brilliantly," Sarah says. "Proper comfort-food mash with hardly any effort at all."

The only attachment that didn't quite live up to the others was the balloon whisk. While Sarah found it whipped cream effectively, it struggled with the demands of making meringue. "The balloon whisk was unfortunately the weak point for me," she says. "I actually ended up decorating both myself and the kitchen with egg whites after letting go of the beaker for a split second." She added that it "worked beautifully for cream", but felt she needed something "sturdier and more powerful" for whisking egg whites. It's perfectly capable, but keen bakers who regularly make meringues, macarons or large batches of cake batter will probably still want a dedicated electric hand mixer.

Who would the Morphy Richards Hand Blender Set suit?

• Students and first-time renters: one appliance covers blending, mashing and whisking, without taking up valuable cupboard space.
• Small households: ideal if you're cooking for one or two people and don't need a collection of specialist gadgets.
• Minimalists: the interchangeable attachments mean you can replace several single-purpose appliances with one compact tool.
• Budget-conscious cooks: buying one versatile appliance is often better value than investing in separate gadgets.

The Morphy Richards Hand Blender is best suited to cooks who value versatility over specialist performance. If your kitchen cupboards are already overflowing, or you're furnishing a first home, it will help to streamline your collection without leaving you feeling short-changed. Rather than reaching for three different gadgets, you can blend soups, mash potatoes and whisk cream with the same motor unit.

That's exactly what stood out to our tester, Sarah. "I absolutely loved the multi-purpose nature of the appliance," she says. "For someone living alone, in a smaller home, or simply trying not to overcrowd the kitchen with gadgets, this makes a lot of sense." Given that Sarah spends much of her time cooking from scratch and has tested plenty of kitchen gadgets over the years, it's a recommendation I'd take seriously. If an appliance earns a permanent place in her cupboards, it's probably earned one in yours too.

Who might want something different?

Sarah feels keen bakers or those regularly making meringues may still prefer a standalone mixer with a more substantial whisk attachment. She also pointed out that buyers prioritising sleek aesthetics over practicality may not fall in love with the design.

“This is very much a practical, hardworking kitchen tool rather than a stylish showpiece for the worktop,” she said. “But personally, I care much more about functionality than appearances.”

Is the Morphy Richards Hand Blender Set good value?

The Morphy Richards Hand Blender's biggest selling point is its versatility. Sarah notes that this is "a brilliant budget buy," she says. "When you consider that it blends, chops and mashes this well, it really does cover a lot of kitchen jobs in one appliance." Given how much time Sarah spends cooking from scratch, it's a strong endorsement that she sees this as a gadget worth making space for.

That said, this isn't an appliance designed to replace every kitchen gadget. Keen bakers who regularly make meringues, macarons or large batches of whisked recipes may still prefer a dedicated mixer with a more powerful attachment. The design is also focused firmly on practicality rather than aesthetics. "This is very much a practical, hardworking kitchen tool rather than a stylish showpiece for the worktop," Sarah says. "But personally, I care much more about functionality than appearances."

Should you buy the Morphy Richards Hand Blender Set?

The Morphy Richards Hand Blender isn't without its limitations, but Sarah found it to be a useful and capable appliance for everyday cooking. Its strongest attachments, particularly the hand blender, chopping bowl and masher, make it a versatile addition to the kitchen, while the weaker whisk attachment feels like a small compromise rather than a dealbreaker.

For anyone looking for one appliance that can handle a range of everyday tasks without taking up too much space, this is a smart choice. It may not replace a dedicated mixer for keen bakers, but its combination of practicality, performance and affordability makes it a reliable kitchen helper. As Sarah concludes: "It’s not perfect, but when several of the attachments perform this well, it absolutely deserves serious consideration as an everyday kitchen helper."

The Origin Hybrid has become one of the brand's best-selling mattresses, promising premium comfort, impressive cooling technology and a luxury hotel feel without the premium price tag. With a plush pillow top, 3,000 individually pocketed springs and specialist foam layers designed to regulate temperature, it's perfect for anyone who needs help sleeping in the heat, without blowing the budget.

With so many brands competing for a place among the best cooling mattresses, it's easy to become sceptical of lofty sleep claims. Origin says its Hybrid combines IceCool ThermoFoam, SnowTencel fabric and BambooAir technology to keep sleepers comfortable throughout the night, while offering enough support for couples with different sleeping styles and body weights. We wanted to find out whether it delivers on both fronts.

Our tester, Holly, has been sleeping on the Origin Hybrid with her husband for almost a year. As she approached her late forties, finding a mattress that could help with night-time overheating became a priority. "I've always been a bit of a sweaty sleeper," she says, "but add in fluctuating hormones, drunk teenagers waking me at 3am and a rather large, fluffy cocker spaniel sleeping on my feet and I'm reaching temperatures hotter than the sun." Could the Origin Hybrid be the answer? "With materials named IceCool ThermoFoam, SnowTencel and BambooAir, I felt like I was edging closer to sleep that resembled floating on a cloud in a gentle breeze instead of a bed of molten lava." Here's how it performed after months of testing.

Origin Hybrid Mattress review

• RRP: From £379
• Warranty: 15 years
• Sizes: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Superking
• Filling: Cooling hybrid
• Comfort: medium-firm
• Hypoallergenic: yes
• Thickness: 26 cm
• Trial Period: 200 nights

Who would the Origin Hybrid Mattress suit?

• Hot sleepers - the open structure and specialised gel layer offer as much temperature regulation as a hybrid mattress can
• Front and back sleepers - thanks to the even layer of responsive springs and foam that contour to the body
• People with back or joint pain - the foam offers impressive pressure relief and tailored support
• Price conscious shoppers: this offers excellent value for money

Naturally, as a hybrid mattress, this suits sleepers who need a balance of foam pressure-relief and spring-like support. Often, this means that sleepers who suffer with back or joint pain get the most out of a hybrid mattress, but that doesn't mean that pain-free sleepers won't suit the Origin Hybrid.

As one of the brand's best-sellers, it's clear this suits plenty of people. With infusions of bamboo and wool, as well as springs, the heating effects of foam are minimised, meaning you're less likely to get the overheating feeling that comes with foam. In fact, our tester, Holly commented on the "refreshed" feeling of her skin in the morning.

Origin Hybrid Mattress Composition

• 100% SnowTencel removable top cover: The zip-off cover is made from a soft, breathable fabric that's designed to wick moisture away from the body. Unlike many mattresses, you can remove and machine wash the cover, making it easier to keep your sleep surface fresh.
• SnowTencel fibre: Sitting beneath the cover is another breathable layer that helps air circulate through the mattress while adding a plush, cushioned feel when you first lie down.
• FibreOrigin layer: This fibre layer acts as a transition between the comfort foams and support core. It helps distribute weight more evenly across the mattress, improving pressure relief while maintaining airflow.
• HexaGrid layer: This is a hexagonal comfort layer that flexes independently under different parts of your body. It compresses more deeply around heavier areas, such as your shoulders and hips, while remaining supportive elsewhere to encourage healthy spinal alignment.
• IceCool Foam: This pressure-relieving foam is infused with cooling technology to reduce heat retention, helping to draw warmth away from your body throughout the night. It also contours around pressure points without creating the enveloping feeling that some traditional memory foams can.
• Bamboo-infused wool: Bamboo fibres are naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, while the wool adds softness and helps regulate temperature in both warm and cool conditions. Together, this layer is designed to create a drier, more comfortable sleeping environment.
• ErgoCoil steel springs: At the heart of the mattress are more than 3,000 individually wrapped ErgoCoil steel springs. These respond independently to movement, helping to minimise motion transfer between partners while providing targeted support around the hips, shoulders and lower back.
• D-2 Edge Support: High-density foam runs around the perimeter of the mattress to reinforce the edges. This helps prevent the sides from collapsing when you sit or sleep near them, increasing the usable sleeping surface and making it easier to get in and out of bed.

Like many shoppers, I pay close attention to the materials that go into a mattress, and Origin has made some thoughtful choices here. The cover incorporates TENCEL™ fibres, which are derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp and prized for their naturally breathable, moisture-wicking properties. Alongside this, the brand uses bamboo-derived fibres to encourage airflow through the sleep surface and help create a fresher sleeping environment.

It's encouraging to see Origin investing in more responsibly sourced materials, although sustainability isn't the brand's primary selling point. If you're specifically looking for a mattress with stronger environmental credentials or carbon-neutral initiatives, there are brands that go further in this area. However, for shoppers who prioritise comfort and performance first, the Origin Hybrid's material choices are a welcome bonus rather than simply a marketing talking point.

Unboxing the Origin Hybrid Mattress

Mattresses aren't deliveries that can come out of the blue: they're all big and bulky, even if you've invested in a bed in a box option. Holly was really pleased with Origin's communication and delivery, which meant she could prepare well in advance of it arriving. The delivery drivers were helpful and friendly too, which is an experience many people have commented on when reviewing Origin's mattresses.

Holly noted that the large, long carboard box was easy to remove and the mattress came out of all its wrapping easily. Some hybrid mattresses need some time to rest and breathe, but the Origin Hybrid "bounced into shape right away" according to Holly. She noted right away that this feels like "a quality mattress that will go the distance." Whilst first impressions aren't everything, they are important.

What is the Origin Hybrid Mattress like to sleep on?

When we're testing mattresses, we're looking at a few factors:

• How comfortable is it to sleep in different positions?
• How comfortable is it throughout the night?
• Is the edge-to-edge support good?
• What is the motion transfer like if you share a bed?
• Is it cooling and breathable?

Holly has now been sleeping on the Origin Hybrid Mattress with her partner for almost a year, giving us an excellent long-term picture of how it performs beyond those all-important first impressions. Like many of the best hybrid mattresses I've tested, it strikes a careful balance between pressure relief and support, pairing foam comfort layers with individually wrapped springs that respond independently to movement across the bed.

During her first few weeks, Holly found the perimeter slightly softer than she expected, particularly when sitting on the edge of the mattress. However, once lying down in her usual back and side-sleeping position, those concerns disappeared. "There's a lovely balance of firmness and cosiness," she told me. "It's responsive, supportive and moulds to your body." That combination is exactly what I'd expect from a well-designed hybrid. The foam contours around pressure points at the shoulders and hips, while the pocket springs provide underlying support that helps keep your spine in a neutral position rather than allowing you to sink too deeply.

One of the biggest advantages of a quality hybrid mattress is its ability to isolate movement, and Holly found this was one of the Origin's standout strengths. Despite sharing the bed every night, she noticed very little disturbance when her partner got up or changed position. "It absorbed the shift in weight comfortably and without complaint," she said. While no mattress can eliminate motion transfer entirely, the combination of responsive foam and individually pocketed springs does an excellent job of preventing movement from travelling across the sleep surface, making it a particularly good choice for couples.

Temperature regulation is another area we pay close attention to during mattress testing. Cooling technology can't eliminate night sweats altogether, but the right materials can help dissipate heat and moisture more effectively than traditional memory foam. Holly noticed a tangible difference after switching to the Origin Hybrid, telling me she had "definitely noticed a reduction in night sweats. Not completely, but enough to stop washing sopping wet sheets every single day." More importantly, she said she woke up feeling noticeably fresher in the mornings, and she's since recommended the mattress to several friends who also struggle with overheating at night.

Should you buy the Origin Hybrid Mattress?

Putting the question of whether the Origin Hybrid Mattress is good value to Holly, gets an emphatic and resounding positive response. She loves the "luxurious, airy sleep experience" that this offers, which is only made more satisfying my the friendly price tag. If you're a hot sleeper who's looking to get as much help to stay cool at night, this will go a long way towards helping you - and it will do so on a budget too.

How we test mattresses

If you're keen to know more of what goes on behind the scenes, it helps to know a little bit more about the person who tested it, Holly Johnson. She's part of our Tester Network where readers, like you, test products for us. She's been sleeping on the Origin Hybrid for nearly a year and is generally fit and healthy. however, with peri-menopause symptoms tipping her from a hot sleeper into an unbearably hot sleeper, she needed to change her mattress for a more breathable cooling option.

Holly also sleeps on her side and likes a a medium-firm mattress to support her, whilst still cushion her shoulder and joints so that she doesn't get crushed overnight. We matched this mattress to her and sent her our criteria for how we test mattresses, to make sure we could give you a holistic idea of what the mattress is like to sleep on.

If you've never come across Ninja's Luxe Café coffee machines before, you're in for a treat. While the brand might be better known for air fryers and blenders, it's spent more than a decade refining its coffee range, taking on established names like Sage and De'Longhi with capable espresso machines that don't intimidate beginners.

The Luxe Café Mini Plus is its smallest semi-automatic espresso machine yet, shrinking the footprint of the classic models by around 30% without sacrificing the integrated grinder, automatic steam wand or hands-on brewing experience that made the original Luxe Café such a success. It's designed for people who want café-quality coffee without surrendering half their worktop.

Having tested a whole range of coffee machines, from Sage's premium espresso machines to fully automatic bean-to-cup models, I was curious to see whether Ninja could genuinely deliver the same performance in a smaller package. After several weeks of brewing everything from straight espresso to iced lattes, I think this might be one of the smartest compact coffee machines currently available.

Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine review

• RRP: £499.99
• Weight: 8.8 kgs
• Dimensions: 26 x 31 x 35 cm (LWH)
• Cord length: 87.88cm
• Wattage: 1650 watts
• Grind sizes: 60
• Coffee settings: espresso, filter, steaming
• Included: portafilter, single and double baskets, funnel, assisted tamper, milk jug
• Warranty: 2 years
  

Who would the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine suit?

• Cold and hot coffee drinkers: this has a menu that spans both styles
• Smaller kitchens needing to save space: the compact design comes without compromise
• Coffee connoisseurs who like to feel like a barista: you can tweak and grind coffee like you would see in your local café
• Anyone looking for an alternative to the Sage Bambino: this is still compact and comes with a grinder integrated

The Luxe Café Mini Plus strikes a clever balance between convenience and control, so it'll appeal to a broad range of coffee aficionados.

If your coffee order changes with the weather, you'll appreciate that it handles both hot and iced drinks equally well. Espresso, americanos, filter coffee and iced coffees all sit on the same intuitive menu, while the automatic steam wand can produce everything from silky latte milk to cold foam.

It's also one of the best options I've tested for smaller kitchens. Integrated grinders are normally reserved for much larger machines, but Ninja has somehow squeezed one into a footprint that's compact, without making the machine feel cramped to use.

Finally, I'd recommend it to aspiring home baristas. It still asks you to grind, dose, tamp and lock in the portafilter yourself, so you learn proper espresso technique, but the machine quietly manages the trickier variables (grind recommendations, extraction and milk texturing) so it's difficult to make a truly bad coffee.

Unboxing the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine

Ninja continues to set the standard for packaging. Everything arrives securely protected with recyclable cardboard and moulded paper pulp rather than excessive plastic, and despite travelling through several couriers, every component arrived in immaculate condition.

Inside the box you'll find everything needed to get brewing immediately: the portafilter, single and double baskets, assisted tamper, dosing funnel, milk jug and cleaning accessories. The portafilter immediately stands out to me: I think it's a great way to gauge the quality of a coffee machine. And Ninja's doesn't disappoint. It has a reassuring weight that feels much closer to commercial equipment than you'd expect at this price point.

I also appreciate the amount of guidance Ninja builds into the setup. Protective stickers identify every component, there's a water hardness test strip for calibrating the machine correctly from day one, and several accessories tuck neatly into onboard storage, keeping the worktop surprisingly uncluttered.

What is the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine like to use?

One thing Ninja consistently gets right is deciding where automation improves the coffee-making experience. Rather than removing you from the process altogether, the Luxe Café Mini Plus automates the variables that usually trip beginners up, while leaving the satisfying parts firmly in your hands.

You still grind fresh beans, distribute the coffee, tamp the puck and lock the portafilter into place just like you would on a traditional espresso machine. The difference is that Ninja recommends the ideal grind size and handles extraction with impressive consistency, dramatically reducing the chances of under-extracted sour shots or bitter over-extraction.

As someone who enjoys making coffee manually, I think this is exactly the right balance. You still feel like the barista, but without the steep learning curve.

The first drink I always make is a double espresso because it reveals almost everything about a machine's brewing performance. Good espresso should have a thick, hazelnut-coloured crema, balanced acidity and enough body to carry the flavour notes through every sip.

Using Lavazza beans that I know well, the Luxe Café Mini Plus produced an impressive, punchy shot. Extraction was even across the puck, with no obvious signs of channeling, and the resulting espresso showcased the beans' chocolate and roasted hazelnut notes beautifully. The crema was dense and long-lasting, suggesting excellent pressure and thorough extraction of the coffee oils.

I made 10 shots, back to back, and the machine kept consistent flavours, extraction, and quantity. For a machine aimed at home users, it's remarkably consistent.

One of the easiest ways to ruin good espresso is by adding boiling water. Excessive temperatures flatten the sweeter tasting notes and exaggerate bitterness, leaving an americano that tastes harsh rather than balanced.

Thankfully, Ninja gets their temperature regulation right. The water integrates gently with the espresso, preserving its sweetness while producing a lighter-bodied cup that's noticeably smoother than many bean-to-cup machines I've tested. The only minor criticism is that the water can splash slightly against the rear panel during dispensing, although it's easy enough to wipe clean afterwards.

Automatic steam wands often produce foam that's either too airy or too thin, but Ninja has clearly refined its system. During testing, it produced glossy microfoam with a paint-like consistency that's remarkably close to what you'd expect from a trained barista.

I tested whole milk alongside oat and soy alternatives across every texture setting, and each produced stable foam with excellent definition. Latte mode creates silky milk that's ideal for simple latte art, while cappuccino mode introduces just enough extra air without becoming dry or bubbly. The cold foam was also really delicious, creating dense, velvety foam that transformed iced lattes.

For experienced users, the wand can also be switched into manual mode by pulling it forwards, giving you complete control over milk texturing.

As an enthusiastic iced coffee drinker, I tried all of the cooler recipes, which are designed to be brewed over ice. If you did this with hot coffee, it would taste bitter and acidic, so this slight tweak can really help to keep all the delicious flavours from your beans, but for your iced drinks. The iced espresso surprised me the most, because it can be the most exposing colder coffee to make: iced lattes are sweetened by milk and iced filter coffee is mellow already. The iced espressos were surprisingly delicate. I could still taste the familiar flavours of hot coffee that's cooled (which is a little more acidic than cold brew), but these were much more mellow than you would get from any coffee shop, meaning it gets my wholehearted seal of approval.

Filter coffee might seem like an unusual choice for a UK market. It's popular in America and has been getting more attention across the pond recently, but for Ninja to dedicate space on their machine for classic, rich, and iced filter coffee must mean that it's exceptionally good. As someone who has drunk litres of filter coffee when I used to test machines for an American brand, I'm seriously impressed with the different options.

Classic filter coffee gets the mellow, simple flavours of this brewing style spot on. The rich filter coffee, is a more intense flavour that you can absolutely differentiate between: it's the dark chocolate to the milk chocolate of the classic brew. Finally, and very seasonally, the iced brew is a beautiful drink for warmer weather. It's delicate and light, perfect with a dash of coconut milk. All in all, the quality of the filter function could be enough to convert you.

Cleaning and maintaining the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine

Cleaning the Ninja is low-maintenance. After each milk drink, the steam wand automatically purges itself, removing residual milk before it has a chance to bake onto the nozzle and clog up the pipes. It's a small touch, but one that dramatically reduces the daily upkeep that often puts people off espresso machines.

Ninja also includes thoughtful maintenance extras, including a water hardness testing strip, descaler and dedicated cleaning brushes. The drip tray and water tank all slide out easily for rinsing, and I was pleasantly surprised that the brushed stainless steel panels resisted fingerprints far better than many competitors.

How does the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine compare?

The closest rival isn't actually another brand, it's Ninja's own Luxe Café range. The larger Luxe Café offers additional drink presets, more onboard storage and cold brew functionality, making it a better choice for households where coffee is a daily essential. However, unless you'll use those extra features, the Mini Plus delivers almost the same brewing experience in a significantly smaller footprint.

Its biggest external rival is Sage's Bambino Plus. While Sage remains one of my favourite espresso machines, the Bambino Plus requires a separate grinder, which ultimately occupies more counter space than Ninja's integrated solution. It also focuses almost exclusively on espresso, whereas Ninja broadens its appeal with filter coffee, iced drinks and far greater automation.

Should you buy the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine?

After testing dozens of coffee machines over the past few years, I've found that compact models almost always ask you to compromise. They usually lose the grinder, simplify the milk system or strip back drink options to save space.

The Luxe Café Mini Plus manages to avoid almost all of those sacrifices. It delivers faultless filter coffee, excellent espresso, produces some of the best automatic milk texturing I've tested, and still gives you enough manual involvement to make brewing feel rewarding rather than robotic.

Its biggest limitation is the maximum 235ml drink size, which may disappoint anyone who prefers oversized mugs of coffee. I'd also miss the cold brew function from Ninja's larger Luxe Café models.

Otherwise, this is an impressively well-rounded machine. If you want café-quality coffee but don't have room for a full-sized setup, I think the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus is one of the strongest compact espresso machines you can currently buy.

How we test coffee machines

At woman&home, we have a standardised process for how we test coffee machines. As a former barista, I set the standard high with the flavours, consistency, and speed that I expect from a coffee machine. I always make sure to research a model before writing about it, to see what the brand says about it and what the special features are. Then, I pay close attention to these, as well as the basics, to see how well the coffee machine stands up to market leading models. I also look at how it compares, what it's like to clean, and anything else that you should know before you make a purchase. By the end of the review, you should know everything you need to know. However, if you want a deeper dive, you can visit our dedicated page for how we test coffee machines.

Blimey, it's hot. A phrase I'm sure all of us have uttered over the past couple of months. And with few of our homes offering the instant relief of air conditioning, the obvious solution is some sort of electric fan. But which one?

In my case, not the cheap 'lightbulb' fans that have been the menace of my TikTok feeds Whilst inexpensive handheld fans have their place, at home, you'll need something a bit more resilient. Something like the Dimplex DuoCool Smart Cordless 2-in-1 Fan.

It's certainly packed with features – it can convert from a tabletop to a freestanding in a few clicks; has a battery life of up to 45 hours; promises to be whisper quiet and can even be controlled by Alexa. But while the Dimplex DuoCool makes a good case for being one of the best cooling fans around, would it actually, ahem, blow us away?

Dimplex DuoCool Smart Cordless 2-in-1 Fan review

• RRP: £179.99
• Dimensions: H91.7cm x Dia36cm
• Weight: 4.9kg
• Power: 30W
• Speeds: 5 fan speeds plus Turbo
• Features: 60°/120°/180° oscillation; child lock; sleep timer; remote; cordless
• Warranty: 3-year guarantee

Unboxing the Dimplex DuoCool Smart Cordless 2-in-1 Fan

Given it's a floor-standing design, the Dimplex DuoCool arrived in a surprisingly small square box, just as you'd pick it up in store. As you can see, Dimplex are keen to highlight that three-year warranty and the fact the fan works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

Open up the box and everything is efficiently packaged, with cardboard dividers (yay!) and plastic bags (boo!) protecting the fan's surfaces. As regular readers of my reviews will know, I like my tech to be packaged in as eco-friendly a way as possible, so this was probably a 5/10, given the bags and lamination on the box. Plastics aside, this makes a good first impression.

The instructions are neatly rested on top, so it's very easy to get into the set-up of the fan straightaway. The main 'head' is very sleek and smooth in matt charcoal and black, and the carry handle sculpted into the back makes it very easy to lift out and carry.

I was momentarily confused as to where the short legs (for the fan in tabletop mode) were, but they were rather cleverly stowed in the fan base. As someone who couldn't tell you where half the attachments for her vacuum cleaner are, I thought this was a little bit genius, as it makes them far less likely to be lost.

Once you've located the parts, and with the instructions to hand, assembly was quick and straightforward. I started using the fan on its stand, which you attach by lowering the fan head down into the stand and clicking it in place.

To remove it, simply press the release button on the top of the base and pull. It's very easy and didn't ever seem to stick or jam. To remove the short legs from the stand (these come it two parts), push them inward and they'll spring out. Then you'll need to line up the two semicircles to click them into the fan. Again, it's super simple, and it doesn't take too much strength to remove them.

To control the fan, there are four options – on-fan buttons, a standalone remote, the GlenDimplex Connect app and voice controls through Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Of course, we tried all four during the course of the testing.

Who would the Dimplex DuoCool Smart Cordless 2-in-1 Fan suit?

As the Dimplex is a two-in-one wireless fan, I'd say it's a good buy for someone looking for a versatile model that they plan to move from room to room, or even into the garden. So if you live in a milder climate that suffers the occasional heatwave, or if you have aircon in your main bedroom but want a fan you can use in other areas of the house to stay cool, it's a wise option.

Also, because it's wireless, you can take it out to the garden, or perhaps even on a camping trip. As tents have a tendency to get super-hot inside, I can see the DuoCool offering a lot of relief on warm days. And you could even charge it in the car via the USB-C cable and a relevant 5V adaptor.

Finally, there's a strong case for buying the fan if you have mobility or dexterity issues. it is surprisingly lightweight given its size, but even better, you can control it via your voice, so there's no fiddling around with pesky buttons or leaving that comfy chair.

At this point, it's a good time to reveal that. had a little help in testing this fan. After using it myself for a couple of weeks, I handed it over to my sister-in-law Claire, who suffers from Multiple Sclerosis.

Claire, like many diagnosed with MS, finds it more difficult to regulate her body temperature and suffers from heat sensitivity, which can exacerbate symptoms like fatigue. So she was eager to test the fan through the heatwave.

Another thing to know about Claire is that she (unlike me, who has been known to sleep through fire alarms and an actual earthquake) can be woken by the sound of a pin dropping. So the quieter the fan, the better for her. And as we'll see, the DuoCool really delivers on that front for keeping your bedroom cool.

What is the Dimplex DuoCool Smart Cordless 2-in-1 Fan like to use?

Let's start with the out-of-the-box experience. Once I'd attach the fan to the stand, I first tried controlling it with three buttons on the fan head – one each for the timer, power level/on/off and angle of oscillation. A gentle tap will scroll through the options. In general, I found these easy to use and not so sensitive that you'd miss your chosen setting by scrolling too fast.

The timer button is one that you'll need to get your head around, as there are actually 6 different onboard options – from 1 hour to 7 hours. As you cycle through, combinations of the LED indicators will light up, for example 1hr + 2hr for a three-hour timer, or 2hr + 4hr for a six hour timer.

The oscillation options are simpler as there just three, each with their own LED indicator: 60°, 120°, or 180°.

There are six power levels in total (1 to 5 plus a Turbo options) and one of the first things that struck me is how quiet the fan is in modes 1 and 2. Claire was able to sleep soundly through the night with the fan on these settings, while I was undisturbed up to level 3.

I took dB readings for each of the settings for reference in a quiet bedroom with no road or other noises to disturb the results:

As you can see there is a big jump in noise output from settings 3 to 4, which correlates with an increase in wind speed. By day, we typically used the fan in modes 3 or 5. Only on the very hottest days (36 degrees C), did we put the the fan into turbo mode, but as it's quite noisy, we found mode 5 to be a better compromise.

Using the remote and the app

The Dimplex DuoCool comes with a battery-powered remote, which works well enough. it is, however, quite diddy, which means that if you're prone to losing things, you might be better off sticking with the app.

The remote does pretty much what the onboard buttons do – cycle through speeds, oscillation and timer settings, turn the fan on and off completely, and set the child lock. But obviously it's very useful if you don't want to move from your chair or bed!

The app, on the other hand, unlocks a few more smart features – and as it's free, it's well worth downloading. Called GlenDimplex Connect, it's available for iOS and Android.

As you can see from the above screen grabs, the app allows you to do everything you can with the remote, and more.

You can schedule the fan to come on and off at more specific times, turn the fan's onboard LED displays off, see the fan's precise remaining battery power and set it up to work with any Amazon Alexa or Google Home device on your home WiFi network.

You can even give the fan a nickname (we chose Jeff). We could then, via Alexa, ask Jeff to change its speed and oscillation settings, set timers and activate the child lock without lifting a finger.

There is just one downside to the app, and that's that you can only pair one smartphone to the fan at any one time. But using a smart assistant like Alexa opens control up to the whole household, so it's hardly a dealbreaker.

Battery life

Next, a quick word on battery life. On its website, Dimplex states the fully charged fan has 'up to 45 hours battery life' that 'covers several days of standard use on one charge'.

In reality on a hot summer's day with the fan in continuous use on settings ranging from 5 at some parts of the day to 1 overnight, it lasted just over 24 hours on a full charge.

I think the 45 hour charge time might be accurate if the fan were used for a few hours at a time with breaks, and on a low setting of 1-2 only. Or perhaps on level 1 continuously but with no oscillation.

Dimplex also states the battery can take up to six hours to charge. We observed that it seemed to charge more quickly, taking around four hours.

Cleaning the Dimplex DuoCool Smart Cordless 2-in-1 Fan

As long-term fan owners know, getting dust out of those caged fan blades can be pretty tricky – and not doing so will result in a nasty burning smell when you switch the fan on after a long break.

So one feature both myself and the in-laws appreciated was the fan's protective cover, which pulls tight around the head of the fan with a drawstring. It might not get much use in the middle of summer, but it'll come into its own when the fan is packed away for winter, helping keep the dust at bay.

Dimplex recommends clean the fan every six months or as needed to prevent any malfunctions, and suggests unplugging it and activating the child lock mode to prevent any accidental power-on.

To clean the air vents and front grille, Dimplex says to use a vacuum cleaner, and then wipe the other surfaces with a cloth moistened slightly with water and a little mild detergent like washing-up liquid.

As we've only been testing the fan for a couple of months and it's been in use pretty much every day, we've not really had to deal with any internal dust build-up as yet, though I would say the black finish does mean that attract dust and I've had to give it a few wipe downs. I tend to use a damp microfibre cloth, occasionally with a squirt of Purdy & Figg essential oil cleaner.

Should you buy the Dimplex DuoCool Smart Cordless 2-in-1 Fan?

In my opinion, you'd be silly not to buy the Dimplex DuoCool. This is hands down the best standard fan I've tested, thanks to its whisper-quiet operation, powerful and even airflow and impressive 24-hours-plus battery life.

With an RRP of £179.99, it's competitively priced, especially considering the three-year warranty. Another standout feature is its portability. Thanks to the rechargeable battery and carry handle, it's easy to move from room to room, or even take outside,without hunting for a plug socket. But where the DuoCool really excels is in the bedroom. It's quiet enough to sleep with on settings one or two, and the built-in timer means it can switch itself off once you've drifted off.

My sister-in-law Claire has become so attached to it that she describes herself as "the number-one fan of the fan". So if you struggle to regulate your body temperature, experience hot flushes during the menopause or simply dread sticky summer nights, the DuoCool is an investment that's well worth making.

The soaring temperatures in recent weeks have made dressing for anything - let alone exercise - feel very difficult. I normally reach for my trainers, but when packing for a recent trip to Wales, I quickly saw that wasn't going to be an option. One day was going to reach above 32 degrees. So, I dug out my Keen Newport H2s, a favourite pair of hiking sandals.

These slip-on sandals deliver all the convenience and breathability you want from a sandal, with a chunky rubber outsole and protective upper that are reliable on rough trails. The EVA foam midsole is flexible and supportive enough to be comfortable all day.

I like these hiking sandals so much that I even bought a pair for my partner this year, and he's barely taken them off since. They've got a more utilitarian look than some sandals, and they're not featherlight. But if you're looking for one pair of shoes for days out and active holidays, or even just for staying cool in the city with a gorpcore-inspired look - this is the pair I'd recommend.

Keen Newport H2 review

Specifications

• Size range: 2.5 - 8.5
• Weight: 330g per shoe
• Upper materials: Polyester webbing
• Sole: Subber outsole, EVA midsole

What are the Keen Newport H2s like to walk in?

Keen released the first edition of the Newport hiking sandal back in 2003, but I didn't try them out until the revamped H2 came out a couple of summers ago, and I was instantly impressed by their comfort and protection.

Unlike most sandals, the midsole is cushioned enough to keep my feet feeling great after hours of wear, and its flexible design lends the shoes a more natural feel. The Newports have all the arch support I need to stop me from over-pronating, and I get a nice, smooth walking feel.

I was a little apprehensive about hiking in sandals, but the rubber sole actually looks like it belongs on a sturdier hiking shoe, and it gives me all the traction I need on roads, pavement, and straightforward trails. I also put these sandals to the test recently on some steep sections of crumbly trails in South Wales, and as long as I was careful, I had no issues.

Where they really shine is on long walks from forest to beach, where I can easily shake out the sand and even cross streams and paddle in the sea without taking them off.

The bungee cord design isn't just easy – it secures the shoes nicely around my heel and midfoot, leaving plenty of room for my toes. I also love how easy it is to tuck the toggle away so it doesn't get caught up in the grass.

Speaking of toes, you'd be forgiven for worrying that sandals won't protect your feet from trail hazards like rocks and tree roots, but the rubber toe acts like a car bumper, and I've never had any painful meetings with hidden objects.

The uppers are stretchy and as breathable as you'd expect, and when I do wear them in the water, they drain easily and dry quickly without rubbing. In fact, the only time I've experienced any rubbing was on one toe after I wore them for a 16k coastal walk. I think for future long walks I might commit the ultimate faux pas and pair them with socks.

For the most part, I do, of course, wear them without socks, but they're treated with anti-odour, and even after several summers, they're still not smelly.

I only occasionally pick up a pebble, and when I do, it only takes a second to slip them off, dump out any debris and then I'm walking again.

Who are the Keen Newport H2s made for?

You can do everything but run in these shoes. You'll need a pair of trail running shoes for that. They're built for anyone who wants to spend summer outdoors, whether that's on the trail, at festivals or in the water. They might not be the best choice for true mountain hikes or very long walks, but for anything up to about 10k, you'll be comfortable in these supportive sandals.

They're perfect for active holidays where you want to walk, hit the beach and paddle without packing three different pairs of shoes. If you're going camping with your family, you won't even need to bring camp shoes, and they're the perfect easy solution for midnight trips from the tent to the toilet block.

The design is more function than fashion, so they're perhaps not ideal if you're looking for something you can also wear with a cute sundress. If you want something just a little prettier, I'm also a huge fan of the Keen Elle Backstrap sandals, which are surprisingly comfortable for hiking. The Teva Hurricane Drift, as seen on Helen Skeleton recently, are another low-key option.

With lots of hot weather ahead, I plan on leaving my socks rolled up in my top drawer, my hiking boots by the front door, and feeling the breeze between my toes in these sandals.

The w&h verdict

I'd recommend the Keen Newport H2 to anyone on the hunt for a hiking sandal that really provides both comfort and protection. The cushy sole and breathable upper make them perfect for hot summer days, but I can take them on rough trails with confidence.

I've worn these shoes from bog to beach, in mountain streams and for fun music festivals. I've put in many miles wearing them on the trails, and I am constantly impressed by their versatility, comfort and grip.

They're not the cheapest hiking sandals out there, but they are a little easier on the wallet than the Keen Hyperports, and they give you more toe coverage than others. This also makes them a good option as a daily trainer alternative in the summer months.

I do wish they came in more vibrant colours, and they aren't the most stylish option, but navy blue is smart, goes with most other colours, and doesn't show the dirt. Even after several summers, they still look pretty good.

First, a confession. Since my decade-old stick blender gave up the ghost two years ago, I haven't replaced it. Instead, I've been wowed by premium countertop blenders like the Ninja Foodi and Sage Super Q, teaming them up with my favourite kitchen appliance of all time – my 25-year-old KitchenAid stand mixer.

So when I I had the opportunity to test out Dualit's 700W hand blender, I was more than willing, but sceptical that it would stand up to my impressive jug and bullet blenders. Surely countertop appliances have most jobs covered?

But *spoiler alert* I was wrong. Because what this mini machine lacks in terms of power and pizazz, it more than makes up for in convenience and usability. It's certainly worthy of a spot in our roundup of the best hand blenders.

Dualit 700W Hand Blender review

• RRP: £99.99
• Dimensions: H37.8cm x W6.4cm x D12.6cm
• Weight: 2.24kg
• Power: 700W / 220-240V
• Speed: Variable dial + Turbo boost
• Cable length: 1.24m
• Warranty: 1-year guarantee

Unboxing the Dualit 700W Hand Blender

My Dualit blender arrived in a cardboard outer packaging, with the cardboard box within. The blender and its accessories are very efficiently and ecologically packaged, which gets a good score for us, as many hand blenders come with non-recyclable packaging.

Everything is held in place with sturdy cardboard 'shells' and wrapped in tissue paper to protect the surfaces from scratches. The bladed parts (the wand and chopper bowl) have plastic covers to protect the sharp edges, so care needs to be taken to remove them. They are easy to miss, so make sure you check, otherwise you may end up blending them into your food...

A 36-page instruction booklet explains what the various attachments do and how to use them, which parts are dishwasher safe (more on that later), and a useful maximum loading chart, so you don't overwhelm the blender.

It also features a selection of 20 recipes, which I found to be a good jumping-off point for testing the blender. They range from simple smoothies and soups to pancakes, guacamole, pâté and satay sauce.

The blender mostly struck me as great quality: the jug and chopper bowl are made from sturdy plastic and the stainless-steel blender wand feels very premium.

The main body and gearbox are a little plasticky and they do tend to show up fingerprints quite quickly, but they're far from cheap or ugly. Only the whisk struck me as flimsy, though that didn't seem to affect its performance, as we shall see.

Who would the Dualit 700W Hand Blender suit?

Dualit pitches its hand blender as 'a flexible kitchen assistant' that can do most prep jobs. I'd say it's perfect for anyone who wants to elevate their culinary skills by preparing their own pestos mayonnaise, and sauces. It's also a great little blitzer for onions, garlic or breadcrumbs, and can mix up smoothies and soups with ease.

One of my favourite things about the Dualit is its neat size. The blender main body, wand gearbox and whisk will all fit in a shallow kitchen drawer, and the chopper and jug could be easily squeezed into a cupboard, making this a handy tool if you don't have ample countertop space for a countertop appliance.

In short, if you're an enthusiastic home cook with limited space, who wants more than an entry-level appliance but doesn't have hundreds to spend, the Dualit hand blender makes a lot of sense.

At £99.99, the Dualit hand blender sits somewhere in the middle of the stick blender market. It's a little more than similar corded models with comparable attachments from Kenwood and Braun, but cheaper than offerings from Ninja and KitchenAid.

What's the Dualit 700W Hand Blender like to use?

To test all of the Dualit stick blender's capabilities, I made a few standards tests - meringues and mayonnaise – and also took inspiration from the recipe book, mixing up an adapted mackerel pâté and some satay sauce.

Testing the whisk attachment

Fluffy meringue was the first challenge. This would require a combination of the gearbox, which twists and locks into place, and the whisk that’s attached simply by pushing it up into the body of the gearbox. You’ll hear a click when it’s locked in. Dualit recommends you mix no more than four egg whites at a time (I went for three), and whle you can use the tall jug provided, decided to use a glass bowl as I find meringues don't whip up as well in plastic containers.

I started the blender off at a low speed, gradually upping the rate by rolling the variable speed dial on the body of the machine. You do need to be careful not to roll it too quickly though – at higher speeds the meringue started to splash quite a bit and there was no need for the turbo function.

In less than two minutes, the egg whites were whipped up enough to start adding caster sugar, and my meringue mix was ready in less than five minutes. The meringues produced were the perfect combination of fluffy and chewy. So far, so successful.

Removing the whisk afterwards was equally straightforward – I simply grabbed it by the neck and gave it a firm tug. There is one lesson I learned the hard way, though, and that's not to use the whisk attachment on turbo speed. In a moment of impatience, I decided to give it a go and was immediately greeted by a faint burning smell.

Thankfully, no lasting damage appears to have been done, but I suspect repeated turbo-whisking would eventually take its toll on the gearbox and motor, so it's best to save the turbo button for jobs that actually need it.

Testing the chopper bowl and knife blade

Next, I decided to give the blender a more demanding test by making a smoked mackerel pâté using the chopper attachment and blending wand. I loosely followed the salmon pâté recipe in the booklet, simply swapping salmon for smoked mackerel and parsley for dill.

I started by adding large chunks of mackerel fillet to the chopper bowl before locking the blender body and gearbox onto the top. Using the turbo setting, I pulsed the fish until it formed a fine, flaky mixture. It made light work of the job, and the rubber ring around the base of the bowl kept it firmly – and reassuringly – planted on the worktop.

Testing the blender wand

Chopping complete, I transferred the mackerel to a plastic mixing bowl and added cream cheese, spring onion, Worcestershire sauce, roughly torn parsley and the juice of half a lime. It was then time to swap the chopper attachment for the blending wand.

While removing the gearbox was straightforward, attaching the wand took more effort than I expected. It was initially very stiff and needed a firm twist before it finally clicked into place. If you have limited grip strength or problems with your hands or wrists, this could prove tricky.

Once attached, though, the blender felt good and sturdy. The pâté was more of a workout for the blending stick than the fish had been for the chopper, and I did have to stop once to scrape the mixture away from the blades. After a couple of minutes, however, everything was smooth and well combined, and I was impressed by how thoroughly it incorporated the parsley and spring onion without leaving noticeable chunks behind.

And the taste? Delicious. So kudos to Dualit for offering some strong recipes that truly deliver. There was one big issue with the wand, however and that was trying to remove it. I really struggled. I had to get my hubby to release it on the first use, and it's remained stiff and tough after half a dozen uses. I do think it wlll loosen over time, but it's something to be aware of.

Cleaning the Dualit 700W Hand Blender

No matter how good a kitchen gadget is, the real test comes when it's time to clean it. Nobody wants to spend five minutes making a smoothie only to spend 20 minutes scrubbing blender parts afterwards.

Thankfully, Dualit seems to understand this. I was pleasantly surprised to find a dedicated cleaning guide in the manual, detailing exactly how to care for each component. Better still, only two parts aren't dishwasher safe: the main motor unit and the gearbox. Both simply need a quick wipe with a damp cloth followed by a dry one. Their shiny silver finish does attract fingerprints, but it also cleans up easily and never seemed to hold onto food splatters. As this isn't an appliance destined to live permanently on display, I don't see that as a major drawback.

Everything else – the blending wand, whisk, chopper blade, chopper bowl and jug – can go straight into the dishwasher. Dualit recommends using a cycle below 40°C or washing the parts by hand under running water. As someone who generally runs their dishwasher at 50°C, I wasn't quite disciplined enough to follow those instructions to the letter, but I'm pleased to report that everything emerged looking spotless.

The clear plastic components came out free from cloudy watermarks, while the metal wand and blades went from caked in ingredients to box fresh. And, perhaps most importantly, I didn't have to wrestle with a sponge and alarmingly sharp blades, which was a big safety win in my book.

Should I buy the Dualit 700W Hand Blender?

Using the Dualit 700W Hand Blender reminded me just how indispensable a good stick blender can be. It may not be the most glamorous appliance in the kitchen, but when you need one, nothing else quite does the job as quickly or conveniently.

It's become my go-to tool for blending soups directly in the pan – a task that's far less stressful than attempting to transfer litres of hot liquid into a jug blender. I also found myself reaching for the chopper attachment far more often than expected. It made quick work of onions and garlic, produced an excellent homemade pesto and a delicious satay (another delicious recipe courtesy of the instruction booklet).

I did find the whisk up to the task despite my initial misgivings about its flimsiness, though the turbo function is something to be avoided there. I will be honest and say I'd probably still rely on my KitchenAid for whipping cream, meringues and cake batters. However, if you don't have space for a stand mixer, I'd say this is a great option.

Overall, I'd happily recommend the Dualit to you. It's smart-looking, thoughtfully designed, easy to clean and simple to store. The chopper bowl is the standout attachment for me and the one I've continued to use most often. And if you can find it on offer for around £80, even better – that's a lot of versatility for not a lot of cupboard space.

How we test blenders

At woman&home, we test every blender that we recommend to you by hand. This means that all of our observations come as a result of in-person, hands-on experience, reflective of the kinds of jobs you'd be doing in your own kitchen. We make sure to cover all blender attachments, so that you can see how versatile an appliance is, but we also talk about what it's like to hold and clean as well as whether it's good value for money. In short, our review should answer every question that you have on whether the blender suits you. If you want to find out more, you can visit our dedicated page for how we test blenders.

It's official: KitchenAid's sell-out walnut wooden bowl is back. This time, it's paired with a soft porcelain finish on the brand's best-selling Artisan design. In my opinion, it's one of the most elegant models KitchenAid has added to its permanent collection.

If you recognise the walnut wood bowl, that's because it was the star of KitchenAid's limited-edition Evergreen Stand Mixer two years ago. The warm walnut finish quickly became one of the brand's most coveted details, bringing organic textures to the kitchen on top of the performance that has secured KitchenAid's place as the nation's favourite stand mixer.

However, when the Evergreen sold out, the bowl disappeared too. And you can ask anyone close to me, I haven't stopped talking about it since. Which is why this latest launch is so exciting. It combines the Artisan design I already love with the walnut wood bowl I thought I'd missed out on forever. I've even had the chance to put it to the test myself.

KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer with Walnut Bowl review

You'll spot in the specifications that this is almost identical to the Artisan. It comes with all the same accessories as the normal range, but with the addition of the walnut wood bowl:

Who would the KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer with Walnut Bowl suit?

• Aesthetic-driven bakers and design enthusiasts - the walnut wood bowl makes a stunning kitchen statement
• Bread bakers and artisan recipes - the walnut wood bowl has been praised for how well it creates a natural non-stick for bread doughs
• Slow bakers and careful cleaners - the bowl needs to be hand washed (and even oiled on occasion), so suits bakers who don't mind a little maintenance

KitchenAid stand mixers have long been loved by serious bakers. There's no denying that they strike an iconic silhouette on the counter, which is only enhanced by the striking wooden bowl. I have mine in a modern kitchen, but I could imagine it making a beautiful statement in a cosy cottage or farmhouse kitchen.

KitchenAid stand mixers have become famous for good reason. They're the model that the Great British Bake Off uses, because they work well across a range of functions. The walnut wood bowl has had some specific praise for its natural non-stick which is brilliant if you make stickier loaves, such as sourdough, brioche, and focaccia.

There are a few maintenance notes to account for though. Unlike KitchenAid's stainless steel bowls, this cannot go in the dishwasher, so needs to be carefully washed by hand and occasionally oiled to keep the wood in good condition. Also, as a wooden item, it can't be put in the freezer before whipping cream or egg whites, so isn't perfect for cold baking enthusiasts.

What is the KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer with Walnut Bowl like to use?

I've tested several versions of the KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer over the years, and they've consistently impressed me with their combination of power, style and reliability. This latest edition, with its walnut wooden bowl, brings something slightly different to the range: a warmer, more tactile design that feels made to sit proudly on a kitchen worktop.

My typical stand mixer tests cover everything I would expect a keen baker to make at home: bread (including both a classic white loaf and sourdough), cake batter, cookie dough and whipped cream. These recipes allow me to test the full capabilities of the mixer, from the strength of the motor and stability of the bowl to how evenly each attachment works. They also give me a chance to assess how practical the KitchenAid accessories are in everyday use.

As expected, this KitchenAid sailed through my tests. The first thing I noticed was how smoothly dough released from the wooden bowl. When making focaccia, I found it easy to lift the dough away from the sides without needing to scrape stubborn patches out with a spatula. I noticed the same with cookie dough, which can often cling to the sides of a mixer bowl and make transferring the mixture more frustrating. Here, the smoother finish made the process noticeably easier.

Whipping cream was equally impressive, with the whisk attachment creating a light, even texture in a short amount of time. One thing worth noting, however, is that the wooden bowl can't be chilled before use. Unlike a stainless steel bowl, wood is an insulating natural material, so if you're someone who likes to pop your bowl in the freezer before whipping cream, this isn't the model for you.

The lack of a handle was the biggest practical difference I noticed during testing. When scraping out the last of my mixtures, I found myself wishing I had something to grip while holding a spatula in the other hand. It wasn't a dealbreaker, especially because the bowl isn't particularly heavy to manoeuvre, but it is something to consider if you're used to the convenience of a handled mixer bowl.

For cakes and cookies, I used the standard beater attachment, and both mixtures were combined thoroughly. The attachment reached right down to the bottom of the bowl, leaving no pockets of unmixed flour behind. I was initially cautious about using chocolate and richer ingredients against the wooden surface, but the bowl felt robust throughout testing.

Like any wooden kitchenware, it does require slightly more consideration than stainless steel. While it feels durable, wood can absorb oils over time, so I would avoid using it regularly for particularly greasy mixtures or heavily spiced batters that could affect the appearance of the finish. For everyday baking, though, it adds a beautiful, natural element to the KitchenAid experience while still delivering the performance you'd expect from the Artisan range.

Should you buy the KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer with Walnut Bowl?

The KitchenAid Artisan Wooden Bowl Stand Mixer is a beautiful example of how a practical kitchen appliance can also become a design feature. Throughout testing, it delivered the same impressive performance I've come to expect from the Artisan range, handling everything from bread dough to delicate whipped cream with ease.

The wooden bowl does come with a few considerations. It isn't quite as practical as stainless steel for every baking task, particularly if you regularly work with oily mixtures or rely on chilled bowls for whipping cream. However, for everyday baking, the smooth finish, easy release and warm walnut design make it a genuinely special addition to the kitchen.

If you're already a KitchenAid fan and want a stand mixer that makes a statement , this is one of the most elegant versions I've tested. It combines the reliability of the Artisan range with a unique material choice that makes even simple baking feel a little more special.

As pruning is such an essential gardening task, having the best tools to tackle the job is a must. And while a professional set of standard secateurs is perfectly sufficient to prune with precision, what could be better than a power-assisted pair that takes the strain out of repeatedly clamping down on the handles with force?

That's where the new Bosch EasyPrune power-assisted gardening tool takes the lead, protecting your wrists and hands by relieving the pressure required when pruning even the toughest branches.

I've been using this smart pair of secateurs to cut through everything from the thick woody stems on a dying ivy bush and bay tree to pruning tomato plant stems. It has proved it's a worthy contender for any essential gardening tool kit.

Bosch EasyPrune Cordless Garden Secateurs review

Who would they suit?

These power-assisted secateurs would suit several different gardeners. Firstly, they are perfect for those who need to ease the strain on their hands, for instance those with joint discomfort and hand muscle issues.

Secondly, they are ideal for those who love power tools and enjoy the ease of working with a battery-assisted gadget. And generally for anyone who enjoys gardening but would rather tackle routine tasks with ease. Perhaps someone who had a once manageable plot that now feels overwhelming and too much upkeep?

Bosch recommends using the secateurs for small and medium-sized pruning jobs, so while they will help cut through plants that regular secateurs can't, they are not suitable for heavy-duty pruning such as your best potted trees.

What are the Bosch EasyPrune Secateurs like to use?

Firstly, they are super easy to use. I know sometimes when things are 'smart' they can feel like they might be complicated. The USB port makes it easy to charge (the cable is included but without a plug adaptor), within an hour.

Once fully charged, you are good to go. It says you get approximately 450 cuts per charge, but it felt like more than that after a morning of hearty pruning (I must confess, I didn't actually count – but it was a lot).

If you have fast-growing shrubs in your garden, you'll know how unruly they can get if left untended – particularly those with woody stems. These secateurs can cut through branches of 20mm hardwood and 25mm softwood, with no effort from you at all.

I did find that on particularly thick branches it took several attempts to cut through, but it still got the job done without me having to apply force.

With sizeable stainless steel blades and automatic power-assist technology which intuitively kicks in once resistance is detected, this tool really is smart garden gadget that can transform the way you prune.

Even if you don't struggle with hand strain, a long day of gardening can wreak havoc on your wrists and fingers; this will reduce the risk of that strain and make gardening easier and more enjoyable again.

Probably the biggest test for these cordless garden secateurs was tending to a dying ivy bush that is now mostly woody roots and branches that need to be completely cut back. Full disclosure, I've been putting the job off because I was dreading how hard it would be for my poor hands, as each cut would require pressure. Since using the new Bosch EasyPrune battery-powered secateurs, I was actually looking forward to getting to work on it. And I wasn't disappointed.

Because of its capabilities to cut through 20 mm of hardwood, the majority was as easy as trimming a single flower stem. There were a few thicker branches, but I simply had to repeat the cut twice to get through the tough stem. There's no doubt that this is where this smart pair of secateurs excels.

This image below perfectly demonstrates what size of stem the tool intuitively knows to cut – it didn't engage when cutting the smaller branch of my rose bush. But for the more substantial branch, it automatically cut through with power. This smart approach preserves battery life because it only engages the power-assist when you genuinely need it.

It's worth noting what it's like to use in terms of how it feels when it cuts. For the most part, it operates as a manual pair of secateurs and cuts in manual mode. When a certain branch diameter is reached, it automatically starts power-assisted mode by starting the integrated motor.

This emits a small vibration and a short mechanical-type noise. The sound pressure level of the product is less than 70db, so there is absolutely no danger of it upsetting the neighbours in the same way as a leaf blower would.

How do they compare to standard secateurs?

There are several ways to draw comparisons. The first is the price. Obviously, the EasyPrune is more expensive than even the most sophisticated professional secateurs, but they are a power tool, so that is to be expected. In terms of what they can do and how easy they make pruning, I would say they are worth investing in.

The next comparison is the weight and size. They are much bigger than secateurs I've ever owned or worked with, which for some might not be as appealing. The battery makes these secateurs slightly more weighty, but not so heavy that they are problematic to use.

They are most notably heavier than standard plastic alternatives. Compared to an old (very old) pair of Kent & Stowe hardwood and carbon steel secateurs, they don't feel overly heavy. So, in short, they are not significantly heavier than a quality standard set of secateurs.

The last, but not least, element to compare is how they perform. When it comes to cutting through stems and branches, there is simply no comparison. They effortlessly glide through thicker branches. And with slender stems that don't activate the power-assisted mode, they cut in the same manner as a regular pruning tool.

Cleaning the Bosch EasyPrune Secateurs

As with any garden secateurs, you should always take care when cleaning the blades. The instruction manual says to keep the tool away from water and moisture, so the best approach for cleaning is to simply wipe with a microfibre cloth after each use – always wearing gloves to protect your hands.

The upper blade is replaceable, and the helpful user manual that accompanies the tool provides clear instructions to help if you ever need to do so further down the line.

Should you buy the Bosch EasyPrune Cordless Garden Secateurs?

Whether cutting back a dense hedgerow, shaping foliage or pruning roses to maximise blooms, using a standard pair of secateurs can lead to aches and discomfort after repetitive strain. This power-assisted pair would suit anyone who wants to make the job easier.

They are an investment, with an RRP of £92, but they are rechargeable, and the main blade is replaceable, ensuring they last for years to come.

You should buy the Bosch EasyPrune tool if you want to reduce the effort involved in any pruning task.

Safety notices in the user manual: If no force is exerted onto the handles the tool stops. Protect the power tool against heat, e.g against continuous intense sunlight, fire, water and moisture.