This article was written for Annabel & Grace, which is now part of Rest Less.
It’s good to share good tips that come our way. It might be a brilliant product that a friend rates highly or a service that is particularly useful in lockdown. As the following selection of worthwhile best buys illustrates, there are a lot of companies out there that could do with our support during this pandemic.
TWO WAYS TO SHOW YOU CARE
Taking the form of an advent calender, there are 14 windows behind which is an activity linked to the five ways to wellbeing – connect, be active, take notice, learn and give. £1 from the sale of each “calendar” is also donated to MIND. It’s a great way to let someone know that you are thinking of them. BUY NOW
Fresh from the fields in the Scilly Isles, each box of narcissi includes foliage to make an attractive arrangement. As one person put it “Receiving a bunch of sweet smelling narcissi in the dark month of January is a real uplift and brings with it the promise of Spring and new hope.” Excellent value and an excellent fragrance for the lucky recipient. 30 narcissi for just £17. ORDER NOW
TWO EASY-TO-USE (& USEFUL) KITCHEN GADGETS
We really rate Joseph Joseph as a brand. If, like me, you adore creamy mashed potato, this easy to use ricer is a no brainer for your kitchen. No muscles required – just a twist of this innovate gadget will give you super creamy mash and vegetable purees. Durable and easy to clean. £20. MORE INFO
This odd looking thing is called a boa constrictor for good reason. It’s a strap wrench. None the wiser? Don’t blame you! Apparently over 20 million of these have been sold worldwide because it grips, twists, tightens or unscrews any shape of bottle or jar. Also ideal around the house ie radiator taps as it will wrap round virtually anything. £4.96. MORE INFO
FOR OUR FOUR LEGGED FRIENDS
One of a selection of tough but fun dog toys which are made from 100% sustainable jute covered in soft suede. £7.95. Available from The Dog Spot, a company just launched by renowned dog trainer Emma Aguado. Her website also sells fresh natural meat for dogs which can be delivered to your door if you live in the West Sussex area. MORE INFO
Henry Wag Drying Coat is a great accessory for dogs for three reasons: it is made from the highest quality microfibre, it dries far more quickly than a standard towel, and removes dirt from fur. Available in five sizes from £14.83 MORE INFO
PROTECTIVE MASKS
We are all getting used to wearing masks when we go outside the house. So you might like to consider buying a few designed by the team at Alder Hey, the children’s hospital. They are reusable and made in the UK. There are two styles to choose from and two sizes. Made from the finest 450 thread cotton for comfort and strength these are premium quality, double layered fully washable face masks. 100% of profit from the sale of these items will be used to fund face coverings for use at the hospital by all patients and visitors. £7.50. MORE INFO
If you prefer disposable masks, Boots has a deal on some with very comfortable ear loops that are particularly good if you have a smaller face. The 50 Pack works out at 60p per mask. However, take up the offer and get another 50 for just £15 ie 45p per mask. BUY NOW
Since my sister extolled the many virtues of the Flexi Fit pull on bra, I have become addicted to wearing them. To the point where I have literally chucked all my traditional bras away. I have never, ever been so comfortable in a bra. I’m 38E and this bra copes with my bosoms ie I feel supported. it gives me a good shape and there are no hooks and eyes sticking in my back. They wash and wear brilliantly, retaining their shape with ease. Currently from £14.50 depending on which of the five colours you select. (There’s also a patterned black and white one which, for some reason, is displayed separately). GET YOURS HERE
TO FINISH – STYLISH VEGAN TRAINERS
Vegan shoes with innovative Insolia Flex® technology which supports the ball of your foot for maximum comfort. From good old M&S, these trainers are available in sizes 3 – 8 including half sizes. SNAP UP A PAIR NOW
Have you read Annabel’s post on sustainable fashion?