What’s the point in decorating your home for Christmas if you’re not going to fragrance it with festive scents? With help from our best Christmas candles guide, you can find the perfect aroma for flooding your home all December long. Whether that be a warm scent, a festively spicy fragrance or a sweet-smelling candle is your choice…
We’ve been trying and testing a whole load of Christmas candles for a good few months now. Our verdict is below as we’ve popped the ones that we love into a list.
Whether you’d like your home to smell like there’s gingerbread baking in the oven, mulled wine bubbling away on the hob or you want to give the impression that there’s a fresh Christmas tree sitting in your lounge, these buys ought to impress even the fussiest of nostrils. Plus, they’ll get you right in the spirit.
See our best candles guide for more top scents for a fragranced home
Believe it or not, it’s not just what the candle smells like, but we also considered looks, too. From painted glass jars to classic iconic vessels, these candles will want to be displayed pride of place atop your fireplace mantlepiece, in the middle of your dining table or on your coffee table this Christmas.
The best Christmas candles 2021
1. The White Company Winter Signature Candle
The best Christmas candle you can buy
Image credit: The White Company
The White Company’s Winter candle has become one of their best selling seasonal scents – and for good reason. With spicy yet warm notes of cinnamon, clove and orange, this candle’s scent is powerful enough to fill an entire room. It’s definitely one for lighting in the lead up to Christmas, to ensure that your home smells as festive as it looks. Plus, it comes in a range of sizes from a small votive to a large, decorative table centrepiece. This Christmas treat is an all-around crowd-pleaser, and we even had guests comment on its scent whilst lighting it in our home.
Burn time: 135 hours max (for largest size)
2. Interlude White Christmas Soy Wax Candle
The best luxury Christmas candle
Image credit: Interlude
This beautiful Christmas candle screams luxury since it’s poured inside a white glass vessel – plus it’s handmade. Using soy wax to provide a clean, soot-free burn, this candle both looks the part and plays the part. It’s scented with herbal notes of pine and clove which is balanced with sweet raspberry, green leaf & orange. Its base notes are caramel and wood. The perfect sophisticated concoction, we think. It also looks lovely on display.
Burn time: 45 hours
3. Yankee Candle Holiday Hearth
The best Yankee Christmas candle
If you are looking for a Christmas candle from Yankee, then Holiday Hearth is the one for you. You’ll almost be able to hear Nat King Cole crooning ‘Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…’ when you light it. This candle’s scent is inspired by a garland-adorned fireplace, with notes of cinnamon, clove and cedarwood. It’s definitely a cosy scent, that’s perfect for burning in the living room on a winter’s evening watching A Christmas Carol. This candle is available in three sizes and tealights. However, if you are looking for a candle to see you through this Christmas and possibly even next we’d suggest opting for the large.
Burn time: 150 hours (large jar)
4. Skandinavisk Jul Scented Candle
The best eco Christmas candle
Image credit: Skandinavisk
If you are searching for a Christmas candle but want to keep it eco-friendly, then this one from Scandinavisk is your best bet. Not only is it fragranced with spicy notes similar to that of mulled wine and baked gingerbread. It’s warming and with a double wick, it’ll flood your rooms with fragrance. We’re currently lighting it in our hallway, to great guests with a festive aroma. How is it eco-friendly? It’s made using Swedish non-GMO rapeseed oil wax, which is traceable and sustainably farmed. This wax is poured into a painted glass vessel, made from 30% recycled materials. The candle itself is 100% vegan and cruelty free, and it’s adorned with a wooden lid to prevent dusting. This wooden lid is made from FSC-certified European forest wood. Even its packaging is FSC-certified and dyed using natural colours.
Burn time: up to 20 hours
5. Mors Snow Gardenia candle
The best sophisticated Christmas candle
Fill your home with the scent of winter blooms as Mor’s Emporium Classics Snow Gardenia range combines rich musk, sandalwood and vanilla with sharp bergamot for a sophisticated spin on the classic Christmas candle. This Christmas candle is made out of black soy wax and it’s housed in a lovely gold embellished black jar – to add a little drama to your Christmas celebrations. The range includes a candle and room spray for boosting the scent all day long, too.
Burn time: 60 hours
6. Yankee Candle Merry Berry
The best sweet Christmas candle
Image credit: Yankee
This Yankee candle smells like Christmas baking, bottled into a large jar and red in colour (it looks much darker than the picture in real life). Named after Mary Berry but with a festive twist, it has base notes of butter cookies, vanilla and tonka bean. These aromas are balanced well with sugar plum, red raspberry and gooseberry. Top notes include orange, lemon and dried apricots. We say to light it in a large room as it can be very sweet if lit in small spaces, and it’s large enough to burn all December long!
Burn time: up to 150 hours
7. Heather Evelyn Holly and the Ivy hand-illustrated set of two Christmas candles
The best tapered Christmas candles
Image credit: Heather Evelyn
For decorating your table or to nestle atop a mantlepiece amongst an impressive garland, these handmade tapered candles are gorgeous. They read “the holly and the ivy” and they are hand illustrated in Balham, South London. Though they’re not one to give off any smell, what they lack in fragrance they make up for in their design. Measuring 24cm in length, they are 100% wax and they come in a set of two.
What makes a Christmas scent?
Certain fragrances will always conjure up Christmas – though some may be more obvious than others. Cinnamon is a biggie, reminding us of festive fare and tasty drinks like egg nog and hot chocolate.
Pine or fir is another key scent that of course brings to mind Christmas trees and wreaths. If you tend to stick to artificial decorations, it may well be worth bringing in pine-scented candles for that ‘real tree smell’.
Orange zests also tend to be a feature of Christmas candles – look out for mandarin or clementine.
What are the best quality candles?
There are two key ingredients to a good candle – the wax and the wick. The wax should be blended so that it gives off the right amount of scent and offers an even burn, without leaving any wax residue or giving off any black soot.
Look for cotton wicks that have been dipped into distilled water to allow them to burn evenly with no soot. The wicks should burn with the candle, so there should be no need to trim them. Ideally, look for candles with multiple wicks as they will give a more even burn and release more scent.
Have you noticed parts of your home that need a refresh? Or, maybe you’ve imagined how life would be better with a larger kitchen or an extra bathroom. These update ideas can be hard to ‘unsee’! If you’ve decided to take the plunge with a refurb, how will you fund it? Has the subject of home improvement loans sprung to mind?
The good news is that revamping your current home is likely to be more cost-effective than moving. Still, home renovations such as loft conversions or kitchen extensions come at a price, which may require you to borrow. ‘It’s important any improvements are done properly and professionally,’ says Michael Holden, Chartered Surveyor. ‘When a property has been invested in, it shows and will pay back through added value and saleability.’
Home improvement loans explained
How much to borrow will partly depend on what you want to do and the current state of your finances. Whether you need finance for kitchens or a loan for an extension, be confident you can pay it back.
‘Affordability is the most important thing to consider,’ says Richard Jones, business development manager at price comparison site, Go Compare*. ‘There are lots of online tools and calculators that let you work out your eligibility before applying for finance.’
Image credit: Furture Plc
Once you have a sum in mind, it is time to shop around for the best deal on this borrowing. Pay too much for credit and you’re wasting money that could have been spent on the finishing touches to your home upgrade.
Home improvement loans – what are the options?
1. Personal loans – unsecured
Personal home improvement loans are not secured against your property or any assets. So, if you default on repayments, the lender can’t come after your property. However, you’ll need a good credit rating to secure the best deals. ‘A personal loan can be a good option if you’re looking to borrow between £500 and £25,000,’ says Go Compare’s Richard Jones. ‘They can be set up so you know what you’ll pay back each month too.’
The repayments are usually set over a term of one to five years. A longer term loan may seem appealing, as the monthly repayments will be lower, but you’ll end up paying more in total by the end of it than with a shorter term loan, because you’ll be paying interest for longer.
Personal loans are more suitable for smaller projects such as a new bathroom, kitchen revamp or replacement windows, rather than an extension or loft conversion (which often cost more than £25,000).
Compare interest rates
The interest rate you’ll pay will depend on your circumstances, how much you want to borrow and for how long. Costs vary hugely between lenders, with some loans priced at an interest rate more than twice as high as others according to Go Compare. The best deals go to people considered to be the best risk, so check your credit file for free at agencies such as Clearscore.com and Experian.co.uk to see where you stand.
‘It’s worth improving your credit score in advance of borrowing money,’ adds Jones. ‘Make sure you’re on the electoral roll and pay utility bills and other outgoings on time.’ Similarly, avoid too many applications for credit, which can affect your score negatively. A comparison site will let you do a soft search to see how much you can borrow and what the repayments might be before applying, which won’t affect your credit score.
It’s worth putting in this work. A cheaper interest rate could be the key to securing that roll-topped bath or statement living room flooring you’ve been dreaming of.
Personal loan Pros and Cons
Pros: Less risk than a secured loan (but not entirely risk-free if you default). If eligible, you can borrow up to £25,000, and occasionally more. You can borrow a fixed amount with fixed payments each month.
Cons: The maximum amount you can borrow is generally up to £25,000, so this option won’t be suitable for larger projects. Some finance companies may impose additional fees if you want to overpay or repay early.
Image credit: Future Plc
2. Secured home improvement loans – against your house
Those with equity in their homes can usually borrow larger amounts for longer periods with a secured loan. The crucial point to grasp though is that this borrowing is secured against your home. Failure to make repayments on these types of home improvements will put your home at risk.
This type of borrowing is often used for large home improvements that require project planning and can usually be arranged through your current mortgage lender. This loan may be referred to a further advance.
Shop around
Don’t discount other lenders. It’s worth taking the time to see what rates others are offering on further mortgage advances or remortgages. After all, it’s better to splash cash on your extension, instead of unnecessary interest charges.
How much you can borrow depends on how you intend to spend it, how much equity is in your home and what your other outgoings amount to.
‘A further advance on your mortgage may be an option if you have enough equity in your property,’ says Paul Archer, senior mortgage manager at Nationwide Building Society. ‘Often this type of borrowing is used to fund projects that will add value to your property, such as an extension or loft conversion, as you’re able to spread the cost over the remaining term of the mortgage.’
Secured loan Pros and Cons
Pros: Homeowners with equity can borrow larger amounts than with an unsecured loan (up to 85% of the value of your home with some lenders). The sum is spread over a longer term than a personal loan – up to the remaining term of your mortgage, or even longer with a different lender.
Cons: Your home is at risk of repossession if you’re unable to meet your home improvement loan repayments. Monthly payments may appear lower than with a personal loan as they’re over a longer term, but you will end up paying more by the end of the loan.
Archer adds: ‘The repayments each month tend to be lower than on a personal loan. However, you could ultimately end up paying more by the end of the term than with a personal loan, as you’re paying for longer. Also, bear in mind that lenders will often only advance up to 85% of the value of your home, so if you’re already highly leveraged this may not be an option.’
Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes
3. Home improvement loan alternatives
Home improvement loans aren’t the only way to finance a new kitchen or bathroom. Depending on the size of your project, remortgaging, credit cards and agreed overdrafts could be other routes to finance.
Credit cards – Deals that come with interest-free credit are worth exploring. According to Martin Lewis, from moneysavingexpert.com, if it’s done right 0% credit cards are the cheapest way to borrow money.
Look for 0% offers – Typically you can go interest-free for a short time (usually up to 23 months) on a set amount (often under £3,000). Deals vary and assume you have a healthy credit rating already. However, it’s important to make sure you can pay off the full balance within the introductory period to avoid paying interest when the 0% interest period ends, as rates will then shoot up.
‘If you only need to borrow a small amount over a short period or you want more flexibility with repayments, then you could look to fund the works using a credit card,’ says James Broome of Nationwide Building Society. ‘Many credit cards offer 0% introductory offer but you should always look to repay within the introductory period as once this ends you will be paying a much higher level of interest than you would have done on a personal loan.’
Credit card Pros and Cons
Pros: If you opt for a card with 0% interest and meet all the requirements and repayments in the agreed term, it’s free borrowing. You choose how much to repay each month, subject to minimum repayments, which makes credit cards more flexible than loans.
Cons: Cards with 0% interest are only useful for a small amount of borrowing (usually up to £3,000) that is paid back in a short amount of time (generally less than 23 months). So not as suitable for larger home improvement projects. You may be required to spend the credit within a small time frame (often 60 days). The payment penalties will be high if you don’t meet your repayments. Self-discipline is required to not use the card after the 0% interest offer ends and high interest rates kick in.
Image credit: Future PLC/ Alistair Nicholls
4. Remortgaging
This is usually when you switch your mortgage to a new deal. Or, if you’ve reached the end of a fixed mortgage term or are on a standard variable rate. This is a good time to find a mortgage with a lower rate than you’ve been paying and borrow more.
If you’re locked into a high interest rate, it may be possible to borrow more, yet keep your repayments the same. Although be mindful that there is usually an arrangement fee with a new mortgage.
‘If you’re looking to remortgage to fund home improvements, it’s worth looking where you are on any existing mortgage deal,’ says Paul Archer. ‘If you’re part way through, an early repayment charge might become payable if you want to leave. A further advance could be a better option as you can take this out as a separate loan to your mortgage.’
Remortgaging Pros and Cons
Pros: You can spread the payments for longer, in tandem with your mortgage if you choose. If you’ve come to the end of a mortgage deal, it’s an opportunity to borrow more at a better rate. Monthly payments may be lower than other forms of borrowing.
Cons: Your home is at risk if you cannot make the payments. Although monthly payments look lower than a personal loan, you’re paying them for longer. Therefore, you’ll pay more back in interest over the entire term. There may be early repayment charges to leave your current mortgage and arrangement fees to set up a new one.
Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles
6. Overdrafts for home improvements
It may be possible to arrange an authorised overdraft off your current account. Your bank or building society will agree in advance a particular fee. This is different to an unauthorised overdraft, which is when you go ‘into the red’ on your current account and expensive charges apply.
An overdraft will create a pot of cash that could be useful for funding home improvements. But these facilities are designed as a short term way to borrow money if you need it quickly. The general consensus is that it’s best not to use an overdraft to borrow money as fees are high. ‘We would advise avoiding an overdraft to fund home improvements at all costs,’ says Richard Jones. ‘Banks were recently forced to change their fee structures, so this is an expensive way to borrow money
‘Using an overdraft for large home improvements is never recommended,’ says James Broome of Nationwide Building Society. ‘Doing so will likely cost you considerably more than other forms of credit.’
Overdraft Pros and Cons
Pros: Short term option in an emergency.
Cons: Overdraft charges are high and the amounts available to loan are lower than other forms of borrowing. Not recommended as a way to fund home improvements.
Home improvement loans may seem daunting. However, if done well, home improvements may pay for themselves when it comes to selling.
*Ideal Home and Go Compare are part of Future plc.
Whatever shape or size, the kitchen is the heart of the home, so it’s imperative to create a space which you love spending time in. Our small kitchen ideas are ideal for making the most of even the most petite room.
While we love exploring all sorts of kitchen ideas, there’s something extra pleasing about finding creative solutions in a more diminutive space.
By maximising every spare inch, reorganising areas that don’t work as hard as they should and adding extra solutions where necessary, you can turn a tiny room into one which does everything you want and need. More and more, kitchen design benefits from minimal clutter and maximum efficiency.
Small kitchen ideas
‘When planning your small kitchen layout, it’s essential to think about your overall aesthetic,’ says Hayley Simmons, Director of Commercial Range at Magnet. ‘Some décor suits smaller kitchens, while others can make your space feel enclosed. There are some layouts that simply won’t work in a small space such as island kitchens, as there isn’t enough room.’
‘Choose light-coloured wood or natural stone to keep your room feeling bright and airy. Natural textures such as wood, rattan and wicker can work well in small kitchens too.’
1. Use partitions to separate tasks
Image credit: Second Nature
In a small kitchen, particularly with small galley kitchens, it can feel like it’s impossible to properly zone the space. ‘Integrating a partition means you can separate functions out more and give designated prep areas within the room,’ advises Graeme Smith, head of design at Second Nature Kitchens.
Opt for a glass half partition to keep the room feeling open and allow light to pass through. Treat one section as similar to a prep kitchen, and keep your appliances and larger utensils hidden from casual viewing.
2. Keep some storage open
Image credit: Olive & Barr
Storage is undoubtedly one of the most important considerations in any kitchen, but none more so than in a small kitchen.
‘One wall kitchen is ideal for those with a smaller space that still want an impactful kitchen,’ says Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr. ‘The simplicity of a one wall layout is that you can maximise efficiency without compromising on functionality. You need to think vertically and create as much extra storage space as possible by utilising the height of your walls.’
Once you’ve planned where this storage is going to go, start to think about light. In smaller kitchens, wall-to-wall cabinetry will block out light, making the space seem smaller and more cramped. Resolve this by including some open storage and shelving. Using this on the top half of the wall will help make the room appear taller, too.
3. Zone with flooring
Image credit: Wren Kitchens
Contrary to popular belief, small kitchens can absolutely be used as petite kitchen-diners. Make the space feels like two separate rooms without compromising on space by clever zoning.
Choose two distinct flooring styles and use them to trick the eye into there being two spaces. A patterned option is best for the kitchen as it is more energising, and helps disguise spillages. Meanwhile, calming more neutral styles work well for a relaxed dining zone.
4. Break the plan
Image credit: Magnet
Broken plan is the new open plan, and small kitchens can benefit from this style of layout. What you’re essentially doing is zoning the room with either full partitions which can be opened or pulled back when needed, or half partitions to give the sense of separate areas. This allows you to differentiate cooking, dining and living areas while preserving the overall open plan feel of the space.
For partition alternatives, look at freestanding furniture, slatted screens or Crittall doors.
5. xxx
Image credit: The Main Company/Chris Snook
‘Utilise the space of your kitchen by creating a breakfast bar area,’ suggests Hayley Simmons, Director of Commercial Range at Magnet. ‘While it may seem a challenging fit, they are an excellent option if you don’t need a lot of cupboard storage space. However, breakfast bars can double as both a preparation and dining space, creating a multifunctional approach to your kitchen design.
Look for slim options which can be built onto peninsulas or islands to further save on space.
6. Pay attention to your flooring
Image credit: Quorn Stone
‘A smaller kitchen requires careful thought and consideration to give the illusion of a larger space,’ notes Isabel Fernandez, Director at Quorn Stone. ‘Contrary to belief we often find a larger tile can work well at achieving this. A smaller tile results in lots of grout joints which can enclose the space and detract the eye from the tile. We often suggest a 900 x 600 tile as it is a versatile size that works well in both smaller and larger areas.’
‘Alternatively wood effect porcelain is becoming increasingly popular in tighter spaces due their long and narrow format,’ continues Isabel. ‘If you choose a complementary grout colour it makes the grout less noticeable which again helps to open the space out.’
7. Save space with a sliding door
Image credit: Future PLC
In a small kitchen where space is tight you may be tempted to remove the door to avoid the feeling of claustrophobia. But a door to a kitchen is a handy tool to be able to contain the smells of cooking from filling the rest of the house.
Consider sliding doors, which are the ultimate space-saving room divider.
In this small dining room idea, the homeowner has used a sliding door that takes up zero space, yet provides separation from the kitchen beyond. Even when it is pulled closed, the reinforced glass design means it doesn’t act as a solid barrier from one space to the next.
8. Be mindful of dimensions
Image credit: Tom Howley
‘Kitchens need to be as functional as they are beautiful,’ says Tom Howley, design director at Tom Howley bespoke kitchens. ‘If you take a standard galley kitchen to have a 6ft width and a 12ft length, island and peninsula counters are rarely an option in this sort of space. The importance of walkway space should be a key consideration.’
‘When designing your layout, always leave a metre of walkway space either one or two sides of your worktop, island, or peninsula counter. This is a functionally and aesthetically effective dimension to keep in mind.’
9. Make more space with collapsable furniture
Image credit: Ikea
Choose collapsable furniture to allow the space freedom in the purpose. This modern kitchen includes an extendable table, which provides an island of sorts. Then, when needed, it extends out to form a sizeable dining table for meal times.
The table could even provide a valuable desk space for working from home. Due to the nature of collapsable furniture the space isn’t in any way compromised by the need for a table. It’s a highly efficient way to make the space work to its full potential.
10. Get creative with corners
Image credit: Future PLC/ Fiona Walker-Arnott
A tiny kitchen still has to cater for even the most basic of food prep and serving, which requires a lot of ‘stuff’. This means it is key to use every last bit of available space by being savvy with the design solutions.
Ensure the units are as tall as physically possible to elongate the space. Making the most of magic corners and other clever mechanisms will also help use every millimetre of space, such as this under cupboard glass rack.
Hanging glasses below the cupboards is a clever kitchen storage idea. It not only uses up space that is otherwise redundant, but more importantly it frees up storage space inside the cabinets.
11. Utilise wall space to create a compact design
Image credit: Kitchen Makers
When space is at a premium, clever compact kitchen design comes to the rescue. ‘When presented with a smaller space it is essential that the layout is carefully considered to make sure every inch of the kitchen is utilised,’ says Ben Burbidge, managing director at Kitchen Makers.
‘Creating a bank of cabinetry along one wall is a great way of streamlining and opening up the space. Tall wall units are particularly suited to narrow, galley style kitchens, as using this space ensures the area feels less cramped than if filled with larder style dressers.’
12. Pay attention to details
Image credit: David Giles
If you’re designing a new kitchen to make your small space more useable, don’t overlook the finer details. ‘Small details, such as the use of materials, is key when designing a small kitchen,’ says Tom Howley. ‘Lighter wood finishes and paint colours work well to expand the perceived space of your kitchen.’
‘However, whites and creams are less popular at the moment, so a great compromise is a smoky grey scheme, using a smoked oak wood paired with a matte grey paint. Pair these tones with very light coloured countertops, and your kitchen will look spacious and airy.’
13. Open up the space with glass
Whether planning a new kitchen or carrying out a makeover on existing cabinets, glass is a key material to enhance a small space. ‘If you do decide on floor to ceiling cabinets, these should only be fitted with glass door display cabinets. This will open up the space in a way that opaque cabinetry will not in a smaller kitchen,’ explains designer Tom Howley.
14. Use fresh mint green to promote calm
Image credit: Dulux
Kitchens of all sizes can feel chaotic, but by their very nature, small kitchens are particularly vulnerable. Tackle this head on by painting your small kitchen in a colour that promotes rest and relaxation. Green is the ultimate tone when it comes to making us feel collected and calm, due to its abundance in nature.
Mix in different tones in cabinetry, walls and accessories as shown in the green kitchen above. That layering will mimic the green of a garden, woodland or forest glade, exaggerating the effect.
15. Create an optical illusion using colour
Image credit: Dulux
Painting kitchen cabinets is having a resurgence, as homeowners look for affordable ways to revamp existing kitchens, rather than the expensive task of replacing.
This budget kitchen idea is a great way to revive the surfaces and make your space look brand new with a simple splash of colour. In small spaces, a new colour scheme can do wonders to help the space feel that little bit bigger too.
A neutral on the surrounding walls, such as Dulux’s ‘Timeless’ provides a fresh airy feel for the space. While a stronger, more dominant colour such as Dulux’s ‘Urban Obsession’ can give presence to the kitchen cabinetry. By painting all the base units in a darker shade the room will feel divided, creating the optical illusion of a greater sense of space between floor and ceiling.
16. Opt for a crisp colour scheme
Image credit: Future PLC
Make a small kitchen feel light and airy by opting for a neutral kitchen colour scheme. However, neutral doesn’t just mean beige or cream kitchens. Pair white patterned tiles and marble worktops with duck egg blue kitchen cabinets for a crisp colour scheme that will bounce light around, making the kitchen feel spacious.
17. Invest in flexible storage
Image credit: String
In a small kitchen you need to think creatively when it comes to storage. Instead of investing in ordinary shelves, this wire panel shelving from string maximises storage by adapting to your kitchen’s needs.
Add in or take away shelves, hang glasses upside down and even introduce a wine rack. When space is at a premium you need to make sure every inch counts.
18. Distract the eye with bold flooring
Image credit: Jonathan Jones
In a small kitchen, go all-out with bold tiling. A strong pattern on the floor distracts the eye and makes the room feel bigger. Every inch of this kitchen has been designed to make the most of the small space from the slimline appliances to the hanging pot plant.
Hanging the copper planter is a great way to add some life and decoration in the kitchen without cluttering work surfaces.
19. Hide appliances in a breakfast cupboard
Image credit: Colin Poole
Keep surfaces from looking cluttered by tucking the toaster, kettle and coffee machine away in a breakfast cupboard. As soon as you open the cupboard your favourite gadget is sat ready to use. This is a nifty trick for making use of awkward corners and making sure that none of your kitchen tech gets lost at the back of a cabinet.
20. Swap an extractor hood for a combined extractor induction hob
Image credit: IKEA
This combined induction extractor hob is a great space saver in a small kitchen. It means you can swap a bulky extractor hood above the hob in favour of extra storage. If you don’t require an extra cupboard or set of shelves, consider leaving the area above the hob empty to give the illusion of a more spacious kitchen.
21. Swap a table for a kitchen island
Image credit: Lizzie Orme
Adding an island might sound like a terrible idea in a small kitchen. However, in a long thin kitchen, a well-thought-out kitchen island idea can be the perfect way to add in extra storage and surface space, whilst keeping the kitchen a sociable space.
Choose an island like the one above with plenty of storage space underneath for stowing away vegetables and linens. A slight overhang from the counter top ensures that the four bar stools fit easily under the island, avoiding any potential trip hazards.
22. Paint kitchen cupboards to match the walls
Image credit: David Parmiter
Create the illusion of more space in a small kitchen by painting the cupboards in the same colour as the walls. The ultimate white kitchen idea, it creates a light and airy space where the units blend into the kitchen walls.
In this rustic kitchen, every spare inch of space is crammed with storage but a uniform wash of white paint keeps the space looking neat and spacious.
23. Turn an awkward corner into clever storage
Image credit: David Parmiter
A small kitchen requires you to make use of every inch of storage space you have. If you have a small boxy kitchen, rather than cramming all your pots and pans into a deep cupboard that is going to become a nightmare when you need to find a particular frying pan, consider swapping a cupboard for a drawer.
This clever pullout drawer maximises space and makes finding your favourite frying pan easy-peasy.
24. Consider compact containers
Image credit: Simon Scarboro
Put a windowsill, shelf or recess to work by adding a selection of strong baskets and use to stow bottles, packets or even fresh herbs in pots. Baskets are also a great way to store condiments, meaning you can take them all to the dining table in one trip.
This is also an easy way to incorporate accessories inspired by rustic farmhouses or shabby chic decorating ideas, such as vintage canisters or mason jars.
25. Find a new home for the washing machine
Image credit: Caroline Arber
You may think the kitchen is the obvious place to put a washing machine. But in continental Europe, you’re more likely to find it in a bathroom. So if you’re stuck for space, it might be worth relocating your laundry appliances and incorporating them into your bathroom ideas. If your bathroom is just as teeny, you might be able to squeeze it in a cupboard under the stairs.
Alternatively, if you have a separate washer and dryer, you could consider keeping them in the kitchen but stacking them one on top of the other in an old larder cupboard. It hides them out of sight, saves space and helps streamline laundry days.
26. Supersize the sink
Image credit: Georgia Burns
Investing in the best dishwasher is tempting, but your small kitchen might not have space for one. So, it’s worth finding room for a double sink instead. Keep one bowl for washing and one bowl for dirty dishes. That way you’ll have somewhere to stack mucky prep kit and plates out of sight, and without cluttering up the work surface.
27. Turn every corner into a storage space
Image credit: David Parmiter
If you don’t have the budget for a kitchen extension, optimise the space you already have instead. Identify places where there’s wasted space, such as the gaps between shelves, at the back of cupboards, below the sink, unused corners and windowsills. Stack wherever you can and have a clear out of kitchenware that’s infrequently used or only has one purpose, so you have less to store.
Think also about relocating items that aren’t in everyday use, but you don’t want to throw out, to elsewhere in your home. Next, think about the space on your walls and doors. Try adding a utensil rail or magnetic knife board, hooks on the sides of your cupboards or racks hung over a door. Extra shelves in corners or across alcoves will also come in handy.
28. Add storage helpers
Image credit: Dan Duchars
Your cupboards and drawers are your biggest storage resource but it’s likely that they’re not being used fully. Internal storage solutions will make the most of them, so think about retrofitting wire racks that pull out of corners or slim cupboards, some plinth drawers, or using drawer dividers for utensils, spices, pans or plates.
The colourful kitchen wall idea shown above uses open shelving to display and store crockery. You can boost your storage further with a mobile solution, such as a trolley or butcher’s block on castors, or think about popping baskets or containers on top of your wall cupboards. Just keep a sturdy stool nearby so you can reach them.
29. Clear away the clutter in small kitchens
Image credit: David Brittain
Wall cabinets can really encroach on space, so consider doing away with yours. Open kitchen shelving can make a huge impact in a small kitchen, creating an open and airy feel. Just ensure you limit the amount of shelves you use, and what you keep on them.
30. Tidy your work surface
Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme
If there are too many items cluttering up the worktops, consider clever solutions like wall-mounted magnetic knife strips, rails to hang utensils, pans, mugs, spice jars and cutlery bins.
Also think about what you need to have to hand every day, such as chopping boards, wooden spoons, washing-up liquid, and what can be stored away until needed. Look for genius kitchen appliance layout ideas to save even more space.
31. Keep your kitchen scheme simple
Image credit: Colin Poole
Nothing makes a room seem larger like simple white walls, so why not take it further with sleek, contemporary details that open up the space.
Light, reflective materials and minimal designs are your friends in a small kitchen, so consider white or frosted glass cabinet doors, white stone or composite, or stainless-steel worktops, and white splashback tiling.
32. Look to portable storage
Image credit: Simon Whitmore
Consider a kitchen trolley on casters, which provides an additional prep surface when you need it, tucks away when you don’t and also offers extra storage for cookery books, pots and pans. You can even use it as a handy food and drinks trolley when you have guests.
33. Don’t let space go to waste
Image credit: Colin Poole
Not every kitchen will have room, but if your heart is set on having an island or peninsula, consider a slimline design. The central workstation shown here may be small, but it provides extra storage space and a useful worktop for food preparation.
34. Neaten up a compact kitchen
Image credit: Lizzie Orme
Not every home is blessed with a vast open-plan kitchen but, if your room is on the small side, there’s plenty to feel positive about. For a start, it’s easy to keep everything to hand, and you’ll find a wealth of storage ideas to get the very best out of your space. To avoid cluttering the worktops, plenty of cupboards have been incorporated into this kitchen design.
Opt for handleless designs for a sleek, streamlined appearance. Don’t overdo the materials in a small space. This compact U-shaped kitchen idea features a maximum of three different materials, all in muted colourways.
35. Install floor-to-ceiling cabinetry
Image credit: Barbara Egan
Think vertically by continuing your cabinets up to the ceiling but plan carefully to ensure the room feels as open as possible. Store less frequently used items in high cupboards. Add a breakfast bar if you can and smart kitchen lighting ideas like the one shown above.
The amount of storage and workspace it provides makes great use of the footprint and will ensure your kitchen is more sociable.
How do I plan a small kitchen?
As with any kitchen, large or small, you need to think about the journey. How do you use the space? There’s a triangle of use within every kitchen, the journey made from fridge to sink to oven – the key elements that need to be considered. Plan your layout around the best way to use the floorspace. Look to use vertical solutions to make the most of every storage space available.
‘When designing small spaces, considering appliances would be my starting point,’ says Sally Hinks, Kitchen Designer at Harvey Jones. ‘Any large appliances such as washer/dryers that can multitask are worth considering. Integrating appliances wherever possible will also help open up a space visually and create clean lines. Housing small appliances also makes a difference – boiling taps and integrated microwaves and coffee machines free up valuable space and keep surfaces clear from bulky microwaves and kettles, to create the illusion of more space and a more minimal aesthetic.’
What is the best layout for a small kitchen?
Ben Burbidge, at Kitchen Makers says small kitchens needn’t compromise on dream layouts. ‘Don’t be afraid to include a breakfast bar but try not to make the overall dimensions too big, as it may restrict movement around the kitchen. The area under the breakfast bar can offer ample space for storage and kitchen.’
‘Islands are best to be avoided within a smaller space as they are more space hungry than people think,’ adds Graeme Smith, head of design at Second Nature Kitchens. ‘You need circulation space around the Island – to ensure you get the best movability and functionality. You could opt for a peninsular to get a similar feel if your kitchen was too small for an island but slightly bigger to accommodate more than galley.’
What is the best colour for a small kitchen?
Light is the greatest tool to help a small space feel bigger, brightening the space by bouncing light into shadows and lifting the entire room. Therefore white is a great option. A staple for small spaces, pure brilliant white is devoid of all pigment. This means it reflects back nearly all light that hits it. Conversely, the darker the colour, the more light it absorbs.
‘Whether it’s a matt or gloss finish, lighter shades like Porcelain and Dove Grey are your best options when designing a compact kitchen space,’ advises Simon Bodsworth, Managing Director of Daval Furniture. Providing high reflection and fluidity of design, this choice of colour will keep the area bright and create the illusion that the space is larger than it really is.’
Help your chosen colour go even further in a small kitchen by painting the cupboards in the same colour as the walls. An allover colour scheme helps to keep the look light and airy by seamlessly blending the cabinets into the kitchen walls.
Searching for the best air bed? You’ve come to the right place: you might be quick to dismiss air beds as being synonymous with a terrible night’s sleep, however, we’re here to tell you that there are some innovative air beds available that offer true comfort. We’ve rounded up our top favourites, with everything from an air bed for toddlers to a luxury option for you to consider. The best part? Air beds are portable and storable – just fold them down, ready for next use.
The best mattress – replace yours now, with help from us
Why buy an air bed? Air beds are undeniably great when it comes to sleeping extra guests – and if your lovely new sofa is not an option. You’ll get good use out of an air bed around the festive season, or when the kids have sleepovers. Failing that, if the in-laws or older relatives are coming to stay, you will want to be able to offer a sturdy – and comfortable – sleeping solution. You can also take air beds with you on staycations, camping or to a family members’ house. Versatile? We think so.
Depending on what you’ll be using your new air bed for, we have got something for everyone. If you’re a serious camper your air mattress criteria will differ seeing as you will want something that is easy to carry, light and quick to inflate without the need for a power source. For kids sleepovers, you could probably make do with a basic single air mattress or mat. For use by adults and indoors, you’ll want to opt for something self-inflatable and super comfortable so as to avoid any sore backs in the morning. Look out for air beds that come with extra bedding, pillows built-in, or even sleeping bags.
The best air beds
1. Active Era Premium King Size Air Bed
The best air bed you can buy
Image credit: Active Era
Rated highly by more than 8,000 Amazon reviewers, this premium air bed takes just 3 minutes to inflate – thanks to its built-in electric pump, that is. Designed with a raised pillow for the ultimate neck and back support, this air bed actually featured 35 structured air-coils for maximum support, all night long. In other words: it’s the best of the best if you want an air bed that’s almost as comfortable as your bed at home.
Available in a range of sizes from single to super king, it’s even made with 5-gauge puncture-resistant material, plus it’s waterproof. It might not bee the most stylish looking air bed around, but rest assured that with some luxury sheets on top you should sleep like a baby.
This air bed ticks all our boxes, whether for sitting in your loft as a just-in-case or for monthly use in your spare bedroom. It can sleep anyone from grandparents to children.
2. Coleman Airbed Comfort Bed
The best double air bed for couples
Image credit: Coleman
Prefer a softer or firmer mattress to your partner? This air mattress may be for you, because of its dual chambers. Using the dual-controls you can inflate or deflate your own side of the bed to suit your needs. This means no more compromising on comfort – or rolling into the middle of the bed and waking each other up. Made from strong PVC this air mattress is robust and virtually puncture resistant.
It also features an airtight double lock valve system that locks in air two ways. This means it is almost leak-proof. You will need a separate pump to inflate it but Coleman offer a good range depending on your usage. Choose from battery-powered, rechargeable, mains operated or one you can connect to your car cigarette lighter socket. That will also come in handy for pumping up beach toys and other inflatables if you take it camping.
This is an extremely comfortable air bed for two and the velvety finish means you can lie straight on it – no sheets required.
3. Fineway Deluxe Inflatable High Raised Air Bed
The best luxury air bed
Image credit: Fineway
You might be thinking that the words luxury and air bed don’t belong in a sentence together, but boy: you are wrong! As proven by this Fineway Air Bed that looks the part and plays the part. It’s self-inflating with 35 coils for your comfort, plus it sits at a normal bed height, unlike other air beds that are usually low down to the ground. It has a double layer base and a bulged outer frame, to prevent you from rolling off onto the floor. The best part? A built-in raised pillow adds neck support and the top of the air bed is wrapped in a soft-touch waterproof cover. Just throw your fitted sheet on top and you’re all set for a good night’s sleep.
Not only can you inflate this mattress using its electric pump, but this can be used for deflating it, too – there’s not a lot of work for you to do with this one, clearly. It comes with a storage carry bag whether it’ll be used for weekend camping trips or when the parents come to stay.
4. The Shrunks Toddler Travel Bed
The best air bed for children
Image credit: Shrunks
If you are buying an air bed for a child – perhaps for sleepovers or occasional staycation use – then this one is your best bet. It’ll allow you to sleep peacefully thanks to its inflatable guard rails that will ensure your little one won’t roll out of bed. It’s also award-winning – and for good reason. It won’t squeak and wake them up when they roll over, plus it’s designed to be lower to the ground for added safety. There’s also the added sheet-tuck feature that lets you tuck their bedsheets into the inner air mattress, to keep them cocooned and cosy all night long.
A small yet powerful pump comes included and will get this bed inflated in 30 seconds. Also included comes a carry bag and a repair kit. Did we mention that this air bed is phthalates, BPA and lead-free? It also looks the part, too, with a white finish that shouldn’t stick out like an eyesore in their bedroom. Inflated, this air bed measures L152cm x W94cm x D23cm.
5. Outwell Dreamcatcher Sleeping Mat
The best air bed for camping
Image credit: Outwell
Start saving now as this is one of the most advanced self-inflating mats we could find. It is super light, weighing only 3kg, and is extremely supportive and comfortable thanks to its 12cm depth. Made from ultra-touch stretch polyester, these mats are built to last. They are also slip-resistant, guaranteeing a secure night’s sleep on uneven ground. To inflate the mat, you simply open the two flat valves at one end and roll out the mat, then sit back and watch. The foam will expand within two to five minutes, depending on how long it had been rolled up.
Another plus side is the fast-fit bags they come in. Forget about having to wrestle with your air mattress to squeeze it back into a drawstring bag. The Outwell bags have a simple split down one side so you can open it up wide, pop in the rolled-up mat then wrap the bag around to fit. We were really impressed with this, and thought it would come in useful if we were trying to pack up a tent in the rain.
Overall this is a very impressive self-inflating mat and definitely worth the investment if you’re a keen camper. Its deep profile with ergonomic shaping is second to none. Indeed, once you’ve spent a night on it you may not want to try anything else. Just don’t let your fellow campers know how comfortable it is!
6. Bestway Dreamair Premium Airbed
The best air bed for everyday use
With an integrated pump, this luxurious air mattress inflates in only 200 seconds – it’s quite a spectacle to watch! The pump is mains-operated so you just need to be within easy reach of a power socket. It also has a deflation option making it super easy and quick to pack away in a drawstring bag. And if you want to take it camping there is a separate valve which you can hook a battery-operated pump into.
Once inflated, this air mattress is huge, standing almost half a metre off the ground. If you top this with a 13.5 goose down duvet and fluffy pillows it will look and feel like a proper single bed. The sleeping surface is velvety soft and the unique rib design is there to prevent roll offs. Sewn onto the side of the mattress is a mesh storage pocket; we found this useful for storing our bedtime read, eye mask and smartphone.
How much do I need to spend on an air bed?
Depending on size and usage the prices of air beds can vary hugely. For an expedition-quality self-inflating mat, £60-£200 would get you a top-of-the-range single. If you’re after a straightforward air mattress for kids’ sleepovers, prices start around £10 for something fairly basic.
If you want to offer your guests something close to a real bed experience, look to air mattress experts Aerobed. A coil construction mattress starts at £130 for a double, going up to £330 for a raised king size. It may sound expensive but it’s still cheaper than your average sofa bed!
How to buy the best air bed for you?
What is the difference between an air bed and a self-inflating mat?
A self-inflating mat or SIM is a popular choice for campers and festival-goers. It is a thin air mattress with a layer of foam padding inside. They range from 2cm–12cm in thickness but check the width too, as they can be a bit narrow so you might want to upsize. To inflate, you simply open the valve to allow air to be automatically sucked in.
They roll up small, similar to your average yoga mat and are extremely light. Some people might find them too thin and firm. however, note that they can also be used with a camp bed base for an off-the-ground set up. Air beds follow the same sizing rules as regular mattresses but they can feel a bit smaller based on their level of inflation.
These air mattresses are a better option if you’re planning to share them with someone else. There are plenty available in a double or king size. The best mattresses come with long, tubular air chambers. This means the level of firmness or softness can be adjusted using the pump, which is either built-in or external. Some come with a special flocked velvet-like coating that eliminates the need for sheets as they are super soft to the touch.
How easy is it to inflate and deflate an air mattress?
This depends on how much your budget will stretch. There are three main types of pumps: a foot pump, an integrated pump or an electric pump. The majority of the top of the range airbeds come with a rechargeable or mains-operated integrated pump. They will also have a remote control that can inflate and deflate the mattress within a matter of seconds.
Self-inflating mats are a doddle as they come with a valve that, once opened, allows to the mat to self-inflate. You can then top it up with a few breaths, so no need for any extra equipment. Your average air bed comes with a separate pump that is either rechargeable or can be plugged into the mains for home use or into a car cigarette lighter socket. The latter is handy if you’re camping and can take up to 3 minutes to inflate.
Do air beds lose air?
Like anything filled with pressurised air, these mattresses are susceptible to springing a leak. Air beds do tend to lose air naturally and gradually anyway. If you notice a rapid loss, there could be a hole somewhere. But where? Follow these steps to help detect the source of the problem:
1. Blow up the air bed fully and then examine the entire sleeping surface and listen out for a thin hissing sound. An inflated mattress makes it easier to identify defects.
2. If the leak is too small, it might be hard to hear so another popular method is to gently wipe over the mattress with a soapy sponge and look out for small bubbles. Washing up liquid is good for this.
3. Once you find the hole, circle it gently with a permanent marker so you don’t lose it and then deflate it.
4. Most good air beds come with their own fixing kit. Each kit’s instructions may vary so be sure to read them carefully.
5. If your air mattress doesn’t come with a repair kit, there are many available online, or you can repair the hole in the same way as you would with a bike puncture.
Common reasons why air bed repairs fail
There are two things to look out for here. The first is that you shouldn’t patch up your air mattress while there is still air in it. Secondly, you need to make sure the surface is clean and free from any oil or dirt – you need a good surface for the adhesive to stick to. Sand down the surface lightly to ensure good adhesion.
