7 bathroom upgrades from on-trend taps to easy-fit flooring
Tap in
Rails, taps, handles and loo-roll holders… swapping out fittings can make a big difference.
Looking for a traditional finish? Try the Bristan Corinth chrome effect pillar tap (below).
Styles that are on trend include matt black and brass. Or mix metals for an eclectic designer look.
Neat trick
Clutter ruining your feng shui? Open storage helps remove things from the floor while providing handy surfaces for styling accessories and plants (perfect for 'shelfies!').
If you prefer to keep everything out of view, a wall-hung cabinet (like the GoodHome Nevado tall matt green double bathroom column, below) is just the job.
And don't forget hooks behind the door for those fluffy towels and dressing gowns.
Floor it
If you're after a completely new look, lay down some luxury vinyl click flooring for an elegant feel, or go classic with monochrome tiles. A day's work is all it takes. Otherwise, spruce up your existing flooring by renewing the grout lines with a grout pen. For even more impact, tile paint can do wonders.
Screen light
Did you know that you can change a tired-looking shower screen without ripping out the whole suite?
The GoodHome Ahti black bath screen, below, has a modern, industrial vibe, while the GoodHome Ahti black glass panel with aluminium grid maximises the light coming into a walk-in shower.
Bright ideas
Bathroom more Blackpool illuminations than zen spa? Switch up your lighting – the GoodHome Dorres pendant silver wall light (below) emits a soft, flattering glow for luxuriating in when you've run yourself a hot bath.
Add more focused light sources either side of your mirror for pampering and preening – something like the GoodHome Bobwhite satin silver effect light.
There are even mirrors with built-in illumination to save on space, like the Sensio Mistral Curved illuminated colour-changing mirror.
Wonder walls
Take your inspiration from top hotels by painting or papering the walls in your bathroom in a vibrant colour or bold print.
If it's the latter, cover with clear decorator's varnish to create a water-resistant barrier.
Little touches
Finally, add a smattering of stylish accessories, whether that's a fancy new toothbrush holder and soap dish that complement your fixtures and fittings or a pot plant and wall art. Don't forget lovely smellies. It's all in the details.
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The Sun
39 minutes ago
- The Sun
I'm a money-saving mum who cleared £225k worth of debt – here's my summer savers guide from free meals to cheap days out
AT the age of 42, Gemma Bird became mortgage-free after successfully paying off £225k, and now she's on a mission to help YOU save money this summer. The mum-of-two managed to climb out of debt using clever money-saving strategies, despite never earning more than £25k per year. 7 7 Thanks to her savvy scrimping, she's now able to enjoy holidays to destinations like Mexico, Lapland, and Dubai. In 2019, Gemma launched her Instagram page, @Moneymumofficial, to share her tips on saving and making money, which quickly gained traction. Now 43, Gemma has amassed an impressive following of 474k on Instagram, where her followers regularly tune in for her expert advice. Reflecting on her journey, she says: 'I was just a working-class girl who loved a bargain. I'm able to afford everything I have today because of the way I saved and my obsession with deals. It doesn't matter how much money you have, everyone loves a bargain.' In 2020, Gemma introduced her popular 'Gemma's No Spend Days' on social media, which became a huge hit. Building on this success, she landed a book deal, and her Sunday Times bestseller, Money Mum Official: Save Yourself Happy, was published in January 2022. Now living near Billericay, Essex with her husband Adam and their two children, Brody and Bronte, Gemma shares her top tips for having a fun summer - without having to break the bank. No spend days Rev up your savings with no-spend days. Pausing your spending just one day a week can truly make a significant impact on your finances. I've made no-spend days a habit for years - during my toughest saving periods, I'd go three or four days a week without spending a penny. Not only does it save money, but it also highlights how much we often waste on non-essentials. Summer holidays with the kids don't have to break the bank either. Instead of splurging on pricey outings, why not host playdates at home? You can keep the little ones entertained with fun DIY activities like setting up a game of bowls in the garden or creating simple homemade crafts. It's all about making small swaps: meeting friends at the park instead of a café, painting your own nails, or whipping up a creative meal with what you've got in the freezer. These little changes can go a long way – and trust me, it's worth it. There are also plenty of free attractions that make for a fantastic day out, like the Science Museum or the Natural History Museum in London. Pack your own food to avoid unnecessary expenses, and plan your visits around free parking times to save even more. With a little planning, you can enjoy quality family time without spending a fortune. Checking in for your dream holiday Dreaming of a getaway without the hefty price tag? There are plenty of creative ways to enjoy a break while keeping your spending in check. 7 Why not skip the trending hotspots like Dubai or Santorini and opt for hidden gems that offer similar vibes at a fraction of the cost? Simply search for 'holiday dupes' online to find destinations that deliver the experience you want without the premium price tag. Always book hotels with free cancellation as well. Monitor price drops and rebook if the price decreases - this simple trick can save you hundreds. I often book months in advance and keep checking for deals right up to the day before check-in. Most people don't bother, but trust me, it's worth it. Make the most of air miles and credit card points as well. Pay for expenses using a credit card that earns air miles, but be sure to pay it off in full each month. Companion flights and air miles have saved us a fortune – we've flown to America for under £1,000 return for a family of four. Using points, we even managed to fly first class one way and economy back for just £1,800 – a deal that would normally cost £24,000. Look out for last-minute deals and make use of vouchers like Tesco Clubcard or The Sun Superdays. These can help you bag bargain breaks without cutting corners. Top Hacks for Holidaying with Kids IF you've got plans to go on holiday with your little ones this summer, here's some advice to take on board. Plan Ahead: Book accommodations with family-friendly amenities. Research kid-friendly attractions and activities. Make travel arrangements that accommodate your children's schedules. Pack Smart: Create a packing checklist to ensure you don't forget essentials. Pack a mix of familiar and new toys to keep kids entertained. Bring snacks, extra clothes, and emergency supplies in your carry-on. Travel Comfort: Use neck pillows and blankets for a more comfortable journey. Download movies, games, and music on tablets or phones. Schedule travel during nap times or overnight to maximise sleep. Stay Organized: Use packing cubes to keep clothes and items sorted. Keep important documents, like passports and tickets, in a dedicated folder. Utilise apps for itinerary management and navigation. Engage and Entertain: Plan interactive activities like scavenger hunts or travel journals. Explore local parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly museums. Involve kids in trip planning to get them excited and engaged. Maintain Routine: Stick to regular meal and sleep times as much as possible. Bring along comfort items, like favorite blankets or stuffed animals. Allow for downtime to avoid overstimulation. Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust plans based on your children's needs and moods. Embrace the unexpected and make the most of impromptu moments. Keep a positive attitude to set the tone for a fun and memorable trip. These hacks can help make your holiday with kids smoother, more enjoyable, and will ensure that you return home with wonderful memories! And don't be afraid or ashamed to email a hotel for a cheeky upgrade. A polite email ahead of your stay mentioning special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries could land you free perks or room upgrades. You might be surprised by how accommodating hotels can be. Get savvy with price comparisons When booking hotels or Airbnbs, I always screenshot the property and use Google Photos to search for it on other websites. More often than not, I find the same property listed for less – this simple trick has saved me hundreds of pounds. When it comes to flights, tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner are invaluable for comparing prices. Don't be afraid to experiment with dates, times, and even nearby airports to uncover the best deals. Small adjustments can make a big difference. Heading away for next to nothing Looking for ways to save big on your holidays? Staying with friends or doing house swaps can be a brilliant option. On one trip, we stayed with friends in Scotland – we split the food bill, enjoyed home-cooked meals, and had an amazing time for next to nothing. If you're comfortable with it, renting out your home on Airbnb while you're away could be a game-changer, covering the cost of your holiday entirely. If it works for you, letting your home can bring in serious money. I know people who let their homes while they're on holiday, effectively paying for their trips, and even someone who lets her flat one week a month while staying with her mum. Whether you live in a tourist hotspot or a quieter area, there's often demand for short-term stays – from business travellers to those visiting family. If you're thinking about it, take some time to prepare. 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A quick search for free campsites near you can uncover hidden gems where you can enjoy the great outdoors without spending a penny. If you're looking for affordable caravan holidays? Independent caravan sites can often provide great value compared to big-name chains. While they may not have all the extras, they're perfect for a budget-friendly break. I remember visiting one in Canby when I was younger, and while it wasn't anything fancy, it was clean, tidy, and served its purpose. We had a brilliant time despite the simplicity! Sometimes the smaller, independent sites offer a more personal and cosy experience, so they're definitely worth checking out. If you're considering a caravan holiday, don't overlook these lesser-known spots – they might just be the perfect option for a fun and affordable getaway. Eating out for free Eating out during the school holidays doesn't have to cost a fortune – there are plenty of ways to save if you plan ahead. I always avoid overpriced food at attractions by either packing snacks from home or grabbing a supermarket meal deal on the way. Even if I forget, I'll stop at a shop before heading into a venue – it's so much cheaper than paying their inflated prices. I took my daughter to the theatre recently, and she wanted some sweets. The price for a small bag of fruit pastilles was £5! Whether I can afford it or not, I just couldn't justify it – it felt like daylight robbery. I told her she'd have to wait until we left, and honestly, it's these little choices that help keep costs down. There are also great perks to take advantage of. For example, Octopus Energy customers can use the OctiPlus app to claim a free coffee each week from Caffè Nero or Greggs. If you've never downloaded the Greggs app before, you'll get a free drink just for signing up – I've definitely made the most of that. When it comes to dining out, lots of places offer deals where kids eat free. Some great options include Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, Comptoir Libanais, Bill's, Yo! Sushi, Morrisons, Tesco, Bella Italia, ASDA, and Ikea. It's always worth checking what's available before heading out. Swimming on a budget Keeping the kids entertained during term time doesn't have to cost a fortune – with a bit of planning and creativity, there are plenty of affordable activities to enjoy. Local swimming pools are often very affordable, so start by checking out smaller pools near you. For something a little different, some private homes rent out their pools by the hour. We've got one near us, and it's around £30–£40 for an hour, which you can split with other families. It works out really cheap and gives you the pool all to yourselves. We did this last year, and it was brilliant – the kids loved it, and it's perfect if you're not a fan of crowded pools. 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Kids Pass is a fantastic option – it's great for discounts on theme parks, cinemas, and other activities. Kellogg's also regularly runs promotions for free or discounted days out, and I've used their vouchers loads of times in the past. Tesco Clubcard points are another lifesaver – they can get you brilliant deals for places like Legoland, Alton Towers, and other big attractions. I never go to theme parks without a deal; whether it's two-for-one offers or discounts where kids go free, there are always vouchers if you keep an eye out. I've found that Tesco Clubcard points, in particular, are brilliant for these kinds of trips. That said, memberships can be a good idea too, but only if you'll use them enough to make them worthwhile. For instance, if it costs £50 per visit and you know you'll go three times a year, then a membership might save you money. But if you're not going to use it regularly, it's just not worth it. You've got to weigh up how far you live, how often you'll go, and whether perks like discounts on food and drink will actually benefit you. I personally always bring my own food and drink, so those extras don't save me much. Check with your energy provider Another great tip is to check if your energy provider offers perks. For example, Octopus Energy has deals on activities, and even free passes for things like cinema tickets. There are also deals like Meerkat Movies, which can save you a lot. For quieter days at home, free trial subscriptions can be a lifesaver. Services like Prime Movies often offer free trials, and you can use them during the holidays for movie nights with the kids. Just make sure you set a reminder to cancel before the trial ends to avoid being charged. Having a party cupboard When it comes to buying toys for my kids or gifts for others, I've always been smart about finding bargains. I've never been shy about buying second-hand toys – charity shops, boot sales, and school fairs are absolute goldmines. My daughter Bronte genuinely thinks the toy shop is the charity shop or Poundland, and she couldn't care less. Kids don't mind about fancy packaging or where things come from – they just love the excitement of having something 'new' to play with. I also do toy rotation at home. 7 I'll keep some toys hidden away and swap them out every few days. It keeps things fresh, and they feel like they're getting something new without spending a penny. Whenever I see toys on offer – whether it's in shops like B&M or online on Amazon - I'll grab them and put them away for later, especially for birthdays or Christmas. Amazon is brilliant for deals on kids' toys, and I'm always checking for price drops. Just the other day, I found a toy reduced from £40 to £7.99. I shared it with friends, and loads of people started buying it to put away for Christmas. It's such a good feeling to be prepared and save money at the same time. I also stick to a budget of around £10 per present. If I can grab a deal like two toys for £10 that would normally cost £17 each, then the child is still getting a really nice gift, but I'm not overspending. For older kids, I'll often just put money in a card – it's practical and lets them save for something they really want. Being savvy with toys and gifts has saved me so much over the years, and it's a great way to always have something ready without breaking the bank. Saving and making money There are so many clever ways to save money when it comes to driving and parking. For starters, to maximise your car's mileage, try only half-filling your fuel tank each time. A full tank adds extra weight, which causes your car to burn more fuel. You can also save by removing roof racks when they're not in use and clearing out your boot to avoid driving around with unnecessary weight. 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Money saving challenges Here's some of our favourite money saving challenges to h Here's a rundown of some of the most popular schemes: Weather saving challenge - Save the amount equal to whatever the highest temperature was that week. £1 = 1C. 1p challenge - save 1p a day for everyday of the year, but it increase the amount by 1p each day. So day one you save 1p, 2p on day two and 3p on day three. When you reach 100 days you start adding a £1 coin each day too, while this increases to a £2 coin each day plus pennies at 200 days, and £3 each day on top of pennies at day 300. 20p a day challenge - Start by putting 20p in savings, then increase the amount by 20p every day. For example, the first week will look like this: 20p, 40p, 60p, 80p, £1, £1.20, £1.40. £5 a week challenge - Like the 20p challenge, put aside £5 a week and increase it by a fiver each week. Eg £5, £10, £15, £20 Round-up challenge - Every time you buy something, round up the purchase to the nearest £1 and put the difference in a savings account. Eg. You pay £2.60, so you put 40p in savings. You can use an app such as Monzo or Starling to do this. Bingo challenge - Here you have a bingo card with different numbers on it and you tick them off when you've put that amount in your savings account. It can be ad hoc but you have to tick them all off by the end of the month. Monday to Sunday challenge - With this challenge, you simply save £1 on Monday, £2 on Tuesday and so on until the weekend where you don't save on Saturday or Sunday. 365 day challenge - Every Sunday you put aside £1, followed by £2 on Monday, £3 on Wednesday and so on. On Saturday you'll put away £7, and then the process repeats and you'll put aside £1 on Sunday as the new week begins.
The Independent
an hour ago
- The Independent
Princess Kate just wore these sunglasses to the Wimbledon finals
As patron of the All England Lawn and Tennis Club, Princess Kate presents the trophies to the champions and runners-up in the singles final each year at Wimbledon. Returning to the Championships for its concluding weekend, the Princess of Wales handed the trophy to Italy's Jannik Sinner in the men's singles and Poland's Iga Swiatek in the women's final. She attended the event with her husband, Prince William, and two of their three children, Princess Charlotte and Prince George. The family were colour-coordinated in a navy, blue and Wimbledon white palette, with the Princess styling a cobalt fit-and-flare blue midi dress with pointed toe-pumps, a wide-brim sun hat and layered jewellery from Daniella Draper and Cartier. This year's Wimbledon has broken records for being one of the hottest on record. In the Royal Box, Kate was prepared for the occasion with a pair of statement sunglasses. Characterised by their classic cat eye frame and timeless gradient brown lenses, the tortoiseshell design costs less than £100. When it comes to accessorising, the Princess often plumps for more affordable brands – see her collection of Strathberry bags or earrings from Carousel Jewels and Missoma. Now, she's returned to one of her favourite labels: Ralph Lauren. From a khaki blazer she's re-worn since 2008 to a striped shirt that's become a layering staple in her wardrobe, Ralph Lauren is a go-to in her rotation. Here's where to shop for her exact Wimbledon 2025 sunglasses from the American brand. Stylish yet functional, these Ralph Lauren sunglasses have a classic cat-eye silhouette. Not only does it look good, but the wide frame helps to shield your eyes from the sun's glare. The gradient brown lenses are set in a tortoiseshell frame that ensures they complement every outfit. Made from durable acetate, the sunglasses are designed to be flexible and lightweight. From the italicised Ralph logo on the temples to the gold hinges, the attention to detail elevates the simple style. You don't have to have a royal budget to shop these sunnies, as they'll set you back less than £100.
The Sun
an hour ago
- The Sun
Aldi's baby & toddler event is back with pram £30 less than Argos, ball pit £60 cheaper than Dunelm & Child's Farm dupes
PARENTS can pick up a wide variety of baby and toddler buys this week from Aldi. The retailer is offering deals on everything from skincare items to prams. Shopping for your little one can be an expensive task but thanks to Aldi's latest range of Specialbuys, you can make significant savings. So parents, mark your calendars because these items hit the middle aisle from Thursday, July 17. From kitchenware and baby gates to plush toys and pyjama sets, you'll be all set with these Aldi buys. Ball Pit - £39.99 The Nuby Ball Pit is available for just £39.99, and comes in both cream and pink. Guaranteed to give your little one "hours of fun", this playroom essential comes with 200 balls. According to the product description, it is suitable for ages 10 months and up. And the Aldi item is £60 cheaper than a Dunelm version, the Tutti Bambini Bola Baby Ball Pit. Stroller - £99.99 Parents can pick up the Graco Myavo Stroller is for just £99.99 from the Specialbuys section. With multiple recline positions, the four-wheel ride suspension provides a "smooth ride on many terrains". It offers a large easy-access storage basket and an integrated fold lock, that keeps the pram standing while folded. I bought huge swimming pool in Aldi Ireland at bargain price - it's perfect for heatwave and best money I've ever spent You can also protect your littl.e one with a knit canopy for sunny days and a raincover. The same pushchair is available at a significantly higher price from Argos, ringing in at £130. Hair & body moisturiser - £1.79 Mamia's Naturals Hair & Body Moisturiser products are available for just £1.79. Designed to be "soft and gentle" on your little one's skin, this budget buy is perfect for bath time. With Colloidal Oatmeal and Oat Essence, these buys are peadiatrician and dermotologist approved. More Aldi middle aisle buys IF it's middle aisle buys that you're looking here, some of the new items you won't want to miss. Shoppers recently went wild for Aldi's new 'pregnancy and menopause essential' - and it's only £6.99. Garden enthusiasts raced to nab a £6.99 buy that will add style to any garden in an instant. A £12.99 garden find left shoppers open-mouthed - but you'll need to sprint to nab it. If you're looking to light up your garden this summer, you won't want to miss this £8.99 solar light. The product is similar to Childs Farm's OatDerma Body Moisturiser, which is £7.50 for a bottle 50 mililitres smaller. Other baby and toddler Aldi buys A variety of other baby and toddler items will be hitting the Aldi shelves later this week. These include a baby safety gate for £14.99, a £3.99 children's cutlery set, stroller travel accessories, which are £6.99 each. There are also toys available, including £7.99 Teletubbies Plush Toys, £6.99 Tray Top Toys, and £2.49 Single Sound Books. More Aldi deals Plus, the new tech collection that launched in Aldi just last week, inlcuding an "ingenious" summer gadget. And Aldi's new life hacks range has also recently hit the middle aisle. Another Aldi gadget will help keep flies and insects from your home this summer. Plus, a £15 item will keep your bedroom cool during the soaring summer temperatures. And Aldi recently brought back its DryRobe dupe for a fraction of the branded version.
