How-to & guides

1. Move furniture to the middle of the room and cover it and the floor with dust sheets.
2. Fill cracks and holes, let the filler dry, then sand it flush.
3. Wash greasy or marked areas with sugar soap and let them dry.
4. Mask skirting boards, switches and window frames with low-tack tape.
5. Cut in around the edges and corners with a brush, about 5cm wide.
6. Roll the main area in overlapping W shapes, working into the wet edge.
7. Leave the first coat to dry as the tin says, usually 2 to 4 hours, then apply a second coat.

Tips

• Do the ceiling first, then the walls, then woodwork.
• Buy all the paint for one room at the same time so the colour matches.
• Wrap brushes and rollers in cling film between coats instead of washing them.

Safety

• Keep the room ventilated while painting and drying.
• Use a stable step ladder, never a chair, for ceilings.

You might need

Paint rollersPaint brushesPaint traysMasking tape and dust sheetsFillers

1. Clean the surface with sugar soap or a degreaser and let it dry.
2. Sand existing gloss lightly so the new paint grips, then wipe off the dust.
3. Fill dents in wood, let it dry and sand smooth.
4. Prime bare wood or metal, and use an undercoat if the colour is changing a lot.
5. Apply thin coats with a good brush, following the grain on wood.
6. Leave each coat to dry fully and sand lightly between coats for a smooth finish.

Tips

• Thin coats dry harder and run less than one thick coat.
• Paint panelled doors in order: panels, middle rails, then outer edges.
• Water-based paints yellow less on white woodwork.

Safety

• Solvent-based paints give off fumes, so keep windows open.
• Only paint radiators when they are switched off and cold.

You might need

Paint brushesSanding sheetsCleaners and white spiritMasking tape

1. Pick a dry spell: no rain due for at least 24 hours.
2. Brush off dirt, cobwebs and loose flakes with a stiff brush.
3. Treat any mould or algae and rinse if the product needs it.
4. Let the wood dry right through.
5. Apply the treatment with a brush or sprayer, working along the full length of each board.
6. Add a second coat if the label says so, once the first is touch dry.

Tips

• Test the colour on a hidden area first, as wood type changes the shade.
• Do the end grain well, as that is where water gets in.
• Decking oils go on thin; wipe off any puddles.

Safety

• Wear gloves and eye protection when spraying.
• Keep pets and children away until it is dry.

You might need

Woodcare and garden treatmentsPaint brushesGarden paint

1. Use a 9 inch roller for walls and ceilings and a 4 inch mini roller for small areas.
2. Short pile sleeves suit smooth walls and gloss; medium pile suits most emulsion; long pile suits rough surfaces.
3. Use a 1 to 2 inch angled brush for cutting in and edges.
4. Load the roller from the deep end of the tray and roll it on the ridges to spread the paint.
5. Clean water-based paint off with warm soapy water and solvent-based paint with white spirit.
6. Dry brushes flat or hanging, bristles down.

Tips

• Run masking tape over a new roller sleeve to pick up loose fibres.
• An extension pole saves a ladder for most ceilings.
• Pour paint into a kettle for brushing, rather than dipping into the tin.

Safety

• Dispose of white spirit at a recycling centre, not down the drain.

You might need

Paint rollersPaint brushesPaint trays and kettlesDecorating tools

1. Scrape out loose material from cracks and holes.
2. Dampen the area slightly for powder filler, or use ready-mixed straight from the tub.
3. Press filler in with a filling knife and leave it slightly proud.
4. Let it dry fully: deep holes may need two fills.
5. Sand flush with fine paper wrapped round a block.
6. Dust off and spot-prime the filled areas before painting.

Tips

• Flexible filler is better for gaps between walls and woodwork.
• Stain block stops water marks and smoke stains showing through new paint.
• Sand in good side light so you can see bumps.

Safety

• Wear a dust mask when sanding.
• Do not sand old paint that may contain lead; seek advice first.

You might need

FillersSanding sheetsAbrasivesDecorating tools

1. Strip old paper and fill and sand the wall. Size bare plaster with diluted paste.
2. Mark a straight vertical line with a level, one roll width from a corner.
3. Cut lengths 10cm longer than the wall height, matching the pattern.
4. Paste the paper or the wall, as the roll label says, and leave it to soak for the stated time.
5. Hang the first length to your line and smooth out from the middle with a brush or smoother.
6. Butt each next length up to the last one; do not overlap.
7. Trim top and bottom with a sharp knife against a spatula.

Tips

• Check every roll has the same batch number.
• Change the knife blade often; blunt blades tear wet paper.
• Wipe paste off the face straight away with a damp sponge.

Safety

• Turn off the power before wallpapering round sockets and switches.

You might need

Wallpaper pasteWallpaper toolsMeasuring and levels

1. Clean the surface and remove grease; it must be dry and smooth.
2. Measure and cut the film 2 to 3cm bigger than the area, using the grid on the backing.
3. Peel back about 5cm of backing and line up the edge.
4. Smooth from the middle outwards with a squeegee or soft cloth as you pull the backing away.
5. Prick any bubbles with a pin and press flat.
6. Trim the excess with a sharp knife.

Tips

• A hairdryer on low helps film stretch round curves and edges.
• Glass film goes on better with a light spray of soapy water.
• Work with two people on long pieces.

Safety

• Take care with craft knives; cut away from your hand.

You might need

Decor filmsWall coverings and filmsCutting tools

1. Make sure the surface is flat, firm, clean and dry.
2. Plan the layout from the centre so cut tiles at the edges are not too thin.
3. Fix a straight batten as a guide for the first full row.
4. Spread adhesive with a notched trowel, about 1 square metre at a time.
5. Press tiles in with a slight twist and use spacers for even gaps.
6. Leave the adhesive to set, usually 24 hours, then grout.
7. Wipe off grout haze with a damp sponge and polish when dry.

Tips

• Buy about 10% extra for cuts and breakages.
• Use waterproof adhesive and grout in showers.
• Seal the joint where tiles meet the bath or worktop with silicone, not grout.

Safety

• Wear eye protection when cutting tiles.
• Kneel on pads for floor tiling.

You might need

Tiling toolsSealantsMeasuring and levels

1. Cut out all the old sealant and clean off the residue.
2. Clean the joint with white spirit or a sealant remover and let it dry fully.
3. Fill a bath with water before sealing so it does not pull away later.
4. Cut the nozzle at an angle, a little smaller than the gap.
5. Run a steady bead along the joint with even pressure on the gun.
6. Smooth it with a wet finger or a profiling tool, then peel off any tape.
7. Leave it to cure for the time on the tube before using water.

Tips

• Masking tape either side gives very straight lines.
• Use bathroom silicone with mould inhibitor in wet areas.
• Expanding foam grows a lot: fill gaps only a third full.

Safety

• Wear gloves; some sealants irritate skin.
• Ventilate the room while the sealant cures.

You might need

SealantsAdhesives, fillers and sealantsMasking tape

1. Check both materials are listed on the pack; plastics like PE and PP are hard to glue.
2. Clean and dry both surfaces; lightly roughen smooth ones.
3. Apply the amount stated: more glue is not stronger.
4. Clamp or hold the parts for the stated time.
5. Leave to cure fully before putting weight on it.

Tips

• Grab adhesive holds heavy items without screws on sound surfaces.
• Super glue is for small, close-fitting parts.
• Mounting tape needs firm pressure for 30 seconds and reaches full strength after 24 hours.

Safety

• Keep super glue away from eyes and skin.
• Use solvent glues in a ventilated area.

You might need

AdhesivesTapesClamps and workshop tools

1. Check for hidden pipes and cables with a detector before drilling.
2. Work out the wall type: solid brick, block, plasterboard or timber.
3. Pick the fixing: wall plugs for masonry, cavity fixings for plasterboard, wood screws into timber.
4. Match the drill bit to the plug size on the pack.
5. Drill straight and to the plug length plus a few millimetres.
6. Clear the dust, tap the plug in flush and drive the screw.

Tips

• Use masonry bits for brick and block, HSS bits for metal, wood bits for timber.
• Put masking tape on tiles before drilling to stop the bit slipping.
• For heavy items on plasterboard, fix into the timber studs.

Safety

• Never drill directly above, below or beside sockets and switches: cables often run there.
• Wear eye protection when drilling.

You might need

ScrewsWall plugsDrill bitsMasonry drill bitsDrills

1. Decide the height and mark it with a pencil and level.
2. Check for pipes and cables with a detector.
3. Hold the first bracket, mark the holes, drill and fix it.
4. Use the level to mark the second bracket and fix it.
5. For twin-slot shelving, fix the uprights first, plumb with a level.
6. Fit the shelf and check it is level before loading it.

Tips

• Brackets should be no more than about 60cm apart for books.
• Shelf depth should be no more than the bracket length.
• Use the heaviest fixing the bracket holes allow.

Safety

• Do not overload: check the weight rating on the brackets.
• Keep heavy items on lower shelves in children's rooms.

You might need

Shelving and bracketsWall plugsScrewsSpirit levels

1. Measure twice and mark with a sharp pencil before cutting.
2. Clamp the work so both hands are free.
3. Let saws do the work: long, steady strokes, without forcing.
4. Use the right screwdriver tip so screws do not strip.
5. Keep blades sharp and replace snap-off blades often.
6. Clean and dry tools after use and store them in a box or bag.

Tips

• A combination square gives accurate 90 and 45 degree lines.
• Hold a spirit level both ways round to check it reads true.
• A drop of oil stops tools rusting in a damp shed.

Safety

• Cut away from your body.
• Wear eye protection when striking or chiselling.

You might need

Measuring and layout toolsSaws and cutting toolsScrewdriversTool boxes

1. Read the manual and check the tool and lead for damage.
2. Fit the right bit, blade or disc for the material and tighten it.
3. Clamp the workpiece firmly.
4. Let the tool reach full speed before it touches the work.
5. Keep both hands on the tool and let it do the work.
6. Unplug or remove the battery before changing accessories.

Tips

• Use the clutch setting on drills to stop screws going too deep.
• Change sanding grits in steps: 80, 120, then 180.
• Charge batteries fully before a big job.

Safety

• Wear eye protection, and a dust mask and ear protection where needed.
• Use an RCD with corded tools outdoors.

You might need

Drill bitsSanding discs and sheetsSaw bladesPower tool accessories

1. Measure the old part before buying: cylinder length both sides, case size, backset or hinge size.
2. Unscrew and remove the old part, keeping the screws if the new ones are missing.
3. Check the new part fits the existing holes and recess.
4. Fit and tighten the screws a little at a time.
5. Test the lock or door several times with the door open before closing it.

Tips

• A euro cylinder is measured from the centre fixing screw to each end.
• Insurers often ask for British Standard BS3621 locks on final exit doors.
• A drop of graphite or lock lubricant keeps locks smooth.

Safety

• Do not lock yourself out: test new locks with the door open.
• Get a locksmith for anything you are unsure about on an outside door.

You might need

Security and locksHingesScrewdrivers

1. Measure the opening width at top, middle and bottom, and the height at both sides; use the smallest figures.
2. Check how many doors the opening needs and the overlap the kit allows.
3. Fit the top and bottom tracks level, fixing into solid timber or with suitable plugs.
4. Hang the doors on the top track and drop them into the bottom track.
5. Adjust the wheels until the gaps are even.
6. For handles, use a template to mark holes so every handle lines up.

Tips

• Allow for skirting boards and coving when measuring.
• Use a drill stop or tape on the bit when drilling cupboard doors.
• Interior rails and shelves can be added later.

Safety

• Mirror doors are heavy: lift with two people.

You might need

Wardrobe track kitsWardrobe interiorsWardrobe accessoriesScrews

1. Turn off the water at the isolation valve or stopcock and open the tap to drain it.
2. Put a towel in the sink to catch dropped parts.
3. Undo the tap connectors and back nut, and lift the old tap out.
4. Fit the new tap with its seal, tighten the back nut, then connect the flexi hoses.
5. Turn the water on slowly and check every joint for drips.
6. For shower heads and seats, check the fitting size before buying.

Tips

• Check your water pressure: some taps need a minimum pressure, shown on the product.
• Flexi tap connectors make fitting easier.
• Use PTFE tape on threaded joints, not on compression olives.

Safety

• Make sure the water is fully off before undoing anything.
• If unsure, call a plumber.

You might need

Tap connectors (flexi hoses)Plumbing toolsPlumbing consumablesBathroom taps

1. Turn off the water and drain the pipe before cutting or undoing anything.
2. Cut pipe square with a pipe cutter and remove burrs.
3. For compression fittings, slide on the nut and olive, push the pipe fully in and tighten by hand then a quarter to half turn with a spanner.
4. For push-fit, use an insert in plastic pipe and push until it clicks.
5. Turn the water back on slowly and check for leaks.
6. For blocked drains, try a plunger before chemicals.

Tips

• Keep a spare olive and washer set in the house.
• Use PTFE tape on threads only.
• Label your stopcock so everyone knows where it is.

Safety

• Gas pipes and boilers must only be worked on by a Gas Safe engineer.
• Drain chemicals are caustic: wear gloves and eye protection.

You might need

Plumbing fittingsPlumbing toolsPlumbing consumablesDrain unblockers

1. Check the cap type (B22 bayonet, E27/E14 screw, GU10) and the fitting's maximum wattage.
2. Choose warm white (2700K) for living areas and cool white (4000K) for kitchens and workspaces.
3. Turn the light off and let the old bulb cool before changing it.
4. For plugs, use the fuse rating on the appliance and tighten the cord grip.
5. Do not plug extension leads into each other.

Tips

• LED bulbs use far less power than halogen and last years longer.
• Use bulbs marked dimmable on dimmer switches.
• Outdoor sockets and lights need the right IP rating.

Safety

• Changing sockets, switches or fixed wiring should be done by a qualified electrician (Part P in England and Wales).
• Always switch off at the consumer unit before touching any fitting.

You might need

Light bulbsExtension leadsPlug tops and adaptorsCable management

1. Measure the loft floor area and the depth of any insulation already there.
2. Aim for a total depth of around 270mm of mineral wool.
3. Lay the first layer between the joists, without squashing it.
4. Lay a second layer across the joists to reach the full depth.
5. Leave gaps at the eaves for air flow and keep insulation off downlights.
6. For draughts, fit seal strips to doors and windows, a brush to the letterbox and a draught excluder at the bottom of doors.

Tips

• Keep a walkway: lay boards on raised supports, not on squashed insulation.
• Insulate pipes and the water tank in the loft, but not underneath the tank.
• Find draughts with a lit incense stick on a windy day.

Safety

• Wear gloves, long sleeves and a mask when handling mineral wool.
• Only step on joists or boards, never between them.

You might need

Loft insulationDoor insulation and draught stripsPipe insulationInsulation accessories

1. Work out the room size: about 1kW heats 10 to 15 square metres in a typical room.
2. Choose oil-filled for long steady heat, convector or fan for quick warmth.
3. Place heaters on a flat surface with space all round.
4. Use the thermostat and timer, not full power all day.
5. Bleed radiators if they are cold at the top.

Tips

• Radiator foil behind radiators on outside walls reflects heat back.
• Close doors to keep heat in the room you are using.
• Thermostatic radiator valves let each room run at its own temperature.

Safety

• Never cover a heater or dry clothes on it.
• Keep heaters at least 1 metre from curtains and furniture.
• Fit a carbon monoxide alarm near any fuel-burning heater.

You might need

HeatersRadiator insulationDraught excluders

1. Work out the cause: condensation, a leak, or rising or penetrating damp.
2. For condensation, ventilate: open windows, use extractor fans, dry washing outside.
3. Kill mould with a mould remover, following the label.
4. Let the surface dry fully.
5. Use a stain block, then an anti-mould paint if needed.
6. Fix leaks or damaged pointing before redecorating.

Tips

• Moisture traps help in small rooms and wardrobes.
• Leave a gap between furniture and outside walls for air flow.
• Keep the heating at a steady low level in cold weather.

Safety

• Wear gloves, a mask and eye protection when treating mould.
• Never mix bleach with other cleaners.

You might need

Damp proofingWaterproofing and damp proofingSpecialist interior paint

1. Measure the lawn: length x width in metres.
2. Rake out moss and dead grass (scarify) in spring or autumn.
3. Spread lawn food at the rate on the pack, using a spreader for even cover.
4. Overseed thin patches: loosen the soil, spread seed, rake in lightly and keep moist.
5. Treat weeds with a selective lawn weedkiller when they are growing.
6. Mow regularly, never taking more than a third off at once.

Tips

• Spring and autumn feeds are different: use the right one for the season.
• Water in the evening or early morning.
• Keep off newly seeded areas for 2 to 3 weeks.

Safety

• Keep children and pets off treated lawns for the time on the label.
• Store garden chemicals locked away.

You might need

Lawn foodGrass seedWeed controlLawnmowers

1. Check the sowing or planting time on the packet.
2. Use compost suited to the job: seed compost for seeds, multi-purpose for pots.
3. Sow seeds at the depth on the packet and keep the compost moist, not wet.
4. Pot on or plant out once seedlings have true leaves and the weather allows.
5. Feed with plant food during the growing season.
6. Support tall plants with canes and ties.

Tips

• Pots need drainage holes and a few crocks at the bottom.
• Harden off seedlings by leaving them outside for a few hours each day first.
• Group pots together so they hold moisture better.

Safety

• Wear gloves when handling compost and soil.
• Keep plant feeds out of reach of children.

You might need

Plant feedsCompostSeed traysPlant fixings

1. Measure the distance from the tap to the furthest point to choose the hose length.
2. Fit a tap connector to the outside tap and a hose connector to each end of the hose.
3. Add a spray gun or nozzle and click it on.
4. Water at the base of plants, in the morning or evening.
5. Drain and reel the hose after use.

Tips

• A water butt on the downpipe saves water for the garden.
• Outdoor taps need a double check valve to protect the water supply.
• Bring hoses in and insulate outside taps before frost.

Safety

• Do not leave hoses across paths where people can trip.

You might need

Hose pipesHose fittingsHose ends and gunsWater butts

1. Use a spade for digging and edging, a fork for breaking up soil and lifting.
2. Prune with clean, sharp secateurs, cutting just above a bud.
3. Use loppers for branches thicker than a finger.
4. Clean soil off tools after use and dry them.
5. Oil metal parts and sharpen blades before storing for winter.

Tips

• A stainless steel spade slides through clay soil more easily.
• Bypass secateurs give a cleaner cut on live wood.
• Hang tools up in the shed to keep edges sharp.

Safety

• Wear gloves and stout footwear.
• Keep power tool cables away from the cutting line.

You might need

Garden hand toolsGarden toolsGarden storage

1. Sweep the area and pull out weeds from the joints.
2. Apply patio cleaner as the label says, usually diluted, in dry weather.
3. Leave it for the stated time; some work over days with rain.
4. Scrub stubborn areas with a stiff brush, or use a pressure washer.
5. Re-sand block paving joints once dry.

Tips

• Test the cleaner on a small area first.
• Hold the pressure washer lance at an angle to avoid lifting joints.
• Treat in autumn to reduce slippery algae over winter.

Safety

• Keep pets and children off until it is dry or rinsed.
• Protect plants and ponds from run-off.

You might need

Patio and driveway cleanerBrushes and brooms

1. Identify the pest from droppings, damage or sightings.
2. Remove food sources: seal food in containers and clear crumbs.
3. Block entry points, such as gaps round pipes and under doors.
4. Use traps, baits or sprays as the label says, placed where the pest travels.
5. Check traps daily and dispose of catches with gloves.
6. Keep up prevention once the problem has gone.

Tips

• Mice run along walls, so place traps against the wall.
• Copper tape round pots stops slugs without chemicals.
• Fly screens and wasp traps work best set up early in summer.

Safety

• Use bait stations so children and pets cannot reach the bait.
• Read and follow the label on all pest control products.

You might need

Mouse and rat controlInsect, fly and moth controlSlugs and snails

1. Read the label and check the product suits the surface.
2. Test on a small hidden area first.
3. Work from top to bottom and dry to wet.
4. Leave the product on for the contact time stated to kill germs.
5. Rinse surfaces that touch food.
6. Air the room while you clean.

Tips

• Microfibre cloths lift dust and grease with less product.
• Descale kettles and showerheads with a limescale remover.
• Keep separate cloths for the kitchen and bathroom.

Safety

• Never mix bleach with other cleaners: it can give off toxic gas.
• Wear gloves and store products away from children.

You might need

Cleaning suppliesMops and refillsSpecialist cleaners

1. Clear the space and sort items into keep, move and give away.
2. Measure the shelf, cupboard or under-bed space: width, depth and height.
3. Pick box sizes that fill the space with little gap.
4. Use clear boxes for things you need to find, and lids for stacking.
5. Label each box on the front.
6. Put everyday items at waist height and seasonal items higher up.

Tips

• Stackable boxes of the same make lock together safely.
• Vacuum bags save space for bedding and winter clothes.
• Baskets keep shelves tidy in living areas.

Safety

• Do not stack heavy boxes high above head height.

You might need

Storage boxesStorage basketsShelving and brackets

1. Pick a ladder that lets you work without standing on the top two steps.
2. Check the feet, rungs and locks before every use.
3. Set step ladders fully open on firm, level ground.
4. Keep three points of contact and do not overreach.
5. Wear gloves, eye protection and a mask suited to the job.

Tips

• Leaning ladders go at about 1 out for every 4 up.
• A tool belt keeps your hands free.
• FFP2 or FFP3 masks protect against fine dust; basic masks do not.

Safety

• Do not use ladders near overhead power lines.
• Never use a ladder in strong wind or on wet ground.

You might need

Ladders and step ladders

1. Measure the room and add 10% for cuts.
2. Leave the flooring in the room for 24 hours to settle.
3. Make sure the floor is clean, dry and level; use levelling compound if needed.
4. Start from the centre or the longest straight wall.
5. Cut to fit round edges with a sharp knife and a straight edge.
6. Fit threshold strips at doorways.

Tips

• Carpet tiles can be swapped out one at a time if stained.
• Run vinyl towards the main light source to hide seams.
• Remove skirting boards for the neatest finish.

Safety

• Kneel on pads and use a sharp blade carefully.

You might need

Flooring accessoriesDoor and floor mats

1. Check the mix for the job: mortar for bricks and pointing, concrete for posts and bases.
2. Mix dry materials first, then add water a little at a time.
3. Mix to a firm, workable consistency, like thick porridge.
4. Use it within the time on the bag, usually 1 to 2 hours.
5. Protect fresh work from rain and frost while it cures.

Tips

• Postcrete sets fast: have the post braced before pouring.
• Dampen bricks slightly before pointing so they do not suck the water out.
• Clean tools before the mix sets on them.

Safety

• Cement burns skin: wear gloves, long sleeves and eye protection.
• Lift bags with a straight back or get help.

You might need

Tiling, masonry and building toolsMeasuring and layout tools

1. Measure the height of the tree, or the length of the window, fence or roofline you want to light, and compare it with the lit length printed on the box before you buy.
2. Check last year's lights before putting them up: look for cracked or missing bulbs, damaged cable and loose plugs, and throw away any set that is damaged.
3. Outside, use only lights, extension leads and timers that are marked for outdoor use (rated IP44 or higher), and keep plugs and connections off the ground and away from standing water.
4. Put a real tree in a stand that holds water, cut a thin slice off the base of the trunk first, and top the water up every day.
5. Keep trees, lights and decorations away from radiators, fires, heaters and candles.
6. On painted walls, use removable adhesive hooks or strips for cards and decorations, and test one in a hidden spot first.
7. Plug the lights into a timer so they switch off overnight and when the house is empty.

Tips

• Battery and USB-powered lights are useful where there is no socket nearby and avoid trailing cables.
• Wind lights round a piece of card when you take them down so they do not tangle next year.
• Put heavier and glass decorations on the inner, stronger branches of the tree.

Safety

• Switch off and unplug lights before you go to bed or leave the house.
• Do not plug one extension lead into another or overload a socket.
• Keep small decorations, baubles and button batteries out of reach of young children and pets.

You might need

Christmas lightsDecorationsChristmas treesOutdoor-rated plugs and timers

1. Check your hob first. Induction hobs only work with pans that have a magnetic base: look for the induction symbol on the pan or packaging, or test the base with a fridge magnet.
2. Match the size of the pan base to the ring or cooking zone. A base much larger or smaller than the zone heats unevenly.
3. Use non-stick pans on low to medium heat with wooden, silicone or nylon utensils, which protect the coating.
4. Stainless steel and cast iron pans take higher heat and metal utensils, but food sticks more easily unless the pan is heated and oiled first.
5. For knives, a cook's knife, a small paring knife and a serrated bread knife cover most everyday jobs.
6. Store knives in a block, on a magnetic rack or in a drawer insert rather than loose in a drawer.
7. For leftovers and freezing, choose food containers with airtight lids, and check the packaging to see whether they are freezer, microwave and dishwasher safe.

Tips

• Hand wash non-stick pans and wooden-handled items unless the maker says they can go in the dishwasher.
• A knife sharpener used little and often keeps an edge better than an occasional heavy sharpening.
• Use a chopping board for each type of food, for example one for raw meat and one for vegetables.

Safety

• Knives and bladed kitchen items are sold to customers aged 18 and over only.
• Turn pan handles inwards on the hob so they cannot be knocked.
• Never leave a pan of hot oil unattended.

You might need

Frying pansSaucepansKitchen utensilsFood storage

1. Check the power rating in watts. Higher-wattage kettles, irons and heaters work faster but use more electricity while they are on.
2. For a kettle, compare the capacity and the minimum fill line. A low minimum fill lets you boil just one cup.
3. For a toaster, check the slot width if you toast bagels or thick bread, and whether it has defrost, reheat and cancel settings.
4. For a heater, compare the heat output in kW with the size of the room, and look for a thermostat, a timer and overheat or tip-over protection.
5. For an air fryer or slow cooker, check the capacity in litres against the number of people you cook for.
6. Check that the appliance has a UK 3-pin plug and a UKCA or CE mark.
7. Register the appliance with the manufacturer so you hear about any safety recall, and keep the receipt for the guarantee.

Tips

• In hard water areas, descale kettles and steam irons regularly to keep them working well.
• Empty the crumb tray of a toaster regularly.
• Keep the instruction booklet, as it lists the parts and accessories that fit.

Safety

• Plug heaters straight into a wall socket, not into an extension lead.
• Never cover a heater or dry clothes on it, and keep it at least a metre from curtains and furniture.
• Unplug appliances when they are not in use and before cleaning them.

You might need

KettlesToastersHeatersVacuum cleaners

1. For drilling holes in wood and metal and for driving screws, a cordless drill driver covers most household jobs.
2. For drilling into brick, block or stone, use a drill with a hammer setting. For concrete and frequent masonry work, an SDS drill is quicker.
3. Match the drill bit to the material: wood bits for timber, HSS bits for metal and masonry bits for brick and block.
4. An impact driver drives long screws more easily than a drill driver, but it is not made for drilling into masonry.
5. A basic hand tool kit: claw hammer, slotted and Pozidriv screwdrivers, tape measure, spirit level, utility knife, adjustable spanner and pliers.
6. For cutting wood, a general-purpose hand saw will do most jobs. For curves and sheet material, use a jigsaw.
7. If you buy cordless tools, stay with one brand and voltage so the batteries swap between tools.

Tips

• Most screws sold in the UK have Pozidriv (PZ) heads. A Phillips (PH) bit will slip in them, so check the marking on the bit.
• Keep a small box of mixed wall plugs and screws for everyday fixing jobs.
• Store tools in a toolbox or bag so they stay dry and do not rust.

Safety

• Wear safety glasses when drilling, cutting or grinding.
• Check walls for hidden pipes and cables with a detector before drilling.
• Unplug the tool or remove the battery before changing a bit or blade.

You might need

DrillsDrill bitsScrewdrivers and bitsMeasuring tools