If you care about your appliances looking good on your countertop, you've likely already heard of San Francisco-based coffee brand Fellow, known for its high-tech coffee machines wrapped in super-sleek designs. And while the drip coffee maker was my first introduction to the brand, it has more recently released another exciting product: the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine (currently in stock at Harrods). Naturally, I had to try it out for myself.

As a short introduction, the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine is the brand's first fully realized espresso maker. It's a semi-automatic machine with the same high-tech functions as its other products. It has over 10 different drink types to choose from, an automatic milk-steaming wand, drink-customization technology, and the ability to connect via a smartphone app — oh, and it's incredibly, incredibly good-looking.

If I'm honest, what really caught my eye was how stylish this machine is compared to similar espresso machines on the market. For almosyt £1,500, though, it needs to do more than just that. But is it really worth the investment? I tried and tested the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine, and below are my honest thoughts and feelings afterwards.

First Impressions

My first impression of this machine was that it was heavy. The box it came in wasn't unusually large, but it definitely was a doozy to pick up and transfer. Already, I thought this wasn't the best machine for small apartment kitchen countertops.

However, as I began to unbox the machine, I was quickly distracted by its very good looks. It's wide, but sits at a lower height than most espresso machines (whereas something like the Smeg cold brew machine is quite tall). And the contrast of the sleek, matte black body and shiny, chrome details (like the oversized group head and extended milk steaming wand) really elevates the look. It captures that luxury, home cafe aesthetic. Plus, the non-slip pad on the top of the machine is a nice touch for storing mugs.

There wasn't any true setup with this machine either. All it needed was to be plugged in and turned on, and then the machine guides you through the first steps, which involve a water hardness test, filling the water tank, and learning the different buttons — nothing unmanageable. I'd say the average person doesn't really need the instruction manual to get started.

One thing to flag up front: there is no built-in burr grinder, so you'll need to sort your own coffee grounds, but we will get to that shortly.

Testing the Machine

So, testing the machine — the fun part. Again, this machine was surprisingly user-friendly for how high-tech it advertises itself as. I should've guessed after how easy the Aiden Precision Coffee Maker by Fellow was to use. Still, there are a few noticeable disadvantages.

Namely, the lack of a built-in grinder. I have to admit, for the over £1,000 price tag, not having a grinder in the machine is a bit of a let-down. That said, the Fellow Ode Brew Coffee Grinder is said to be one of the best coffee grinders on the market, so you’re in good hands, should you decide to buy separately.

Once you get your grinds sorted, using the machine is a smooth and stylish experience. The wooden handle on both the portafilter and tamp creates a nice tactile moment when pouring a shot. And there is just the right amount of hands-on effort, which also caters to a luxury experience. Measure and tamp your grinds, insert the portafilter into the group head, select a drink type, and watch your espresso shot brew.

There are over 10 different types of drinks you can choose from. If a milk-based drink is your preference, fill the jug according to the suggested measurements (when you select your drink, the machine indicates which milk measurements are needed) and place it under the steaming wand before pressing the start button. The machine takes care of the rest, or you can hold the jug yourself to practice your milk-frothing techniques. Streamlined, high-tech, and elevated.

Quality of Coffee

But how does the coffee taste, you ask? It’s an important question — what's a luxe-looking machine if the coffee tastes average? I'll start by saying that the Fellow Series 1 machine does deliver a tasty cup of coffee. But my experience wasn't all sunshine and roses; it took a few tries to get to a satisfactory shot.

At the beginning, achieving a thick crema layer was a challenge. Part of that is likely due to simply testing a new machine. However, I'd say it's wise to invest in coffee machine accessories like a scale to make sure you are getting the exact measurements — this will make your shots more precise, help your coffee machine work better, and make your coffee taste better.

The automated milk frother is also a bit tricky to get used to at first. Not because it doesn't work well (it is a very high-quality steaming wand that yields great results), but more so because of its automated nature. There is less room to customize and practice the amount of foam, silkiness, etc. that you want in your drink.

Other than that, the coffee tastes delicious. It's definitely a step up from a coffee pod machine, but it takes more effort and practice to get there than some other semi-automatic machines I've tried.

Should You Buy the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine?

So, I've shared all of my thoughts and feelings while reviewing, but is the Fellow Series 1 Espresso Machine the right appliance for your coffee corner?

If you have the budget and design matters to you (and I'm assuming it does if you are reading this Livingetc review), then I'd say it's absolutely a solid investment. This is an appliance that looks incredible on the counter, whether you have a modern or traditional kitchen.

While aspects like the lack of a built-in grinder are a downside, it does give you the chance to explore a wider range of coffee products and how they can advance your coffee-making experience. Something like the Philips Series 5500 is fully automated and has everything you need, but there is less room for customization and learning the art of coffee-making.

Plus, the Fellow Series 1 is very easy to use, making it fabulous for people who want a streamlined morning routine. And once you decide what your favorite beverages are, you can customize the machine to recognize your preferences — futuristic.

All in all, it's a great machine for a luxury, high-quality coffee-making experience.

Other Fellow Coffee Accessories

I always love testing a new coffee machine, and Fellow has quickly become one of my favorite brands for a beautiful blend of form and function. Want something with a grinder included and just as much beauty? I can't say enough good things about the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Machine.

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Bose is no stranger to wireless speakers, but the Lifestyle Ultra Speaker arrives with a different intent than the company’s previous models. Part of the same Lifestyle Collection as the Ultra Soundbar and Ultra Subwoofer, it's not only conceived as a starting point for something bigger — a speaker you build a surround system around — but there’s a focus on design.

At £299.95, it’s the same price as the latest portable Sonos Play (if you're in the habit of comparing Sonos vs Bose), nestling between the Sonos Era 100, which is £100 cheaper than both, and the Sonos Era 300, which is more expensive at £449. The Lifestyle Ultra Speaker, therefore, very much positions itself as a premium smart speaker designed for home use.

I had the Black model in for review, but this speaker is also available in White Smoke and a limited-edition Driftwood Sand. The Driftwood Sand offers pale, earthier tones over a solid natural oak base, and while it’s an extra £50, it’s the one I’d recommend for those really looking to blend their hi-fi with their décor. Still, the standard two do the job rather beautifully, too, but are they worth the £300 price point?

First Impressions

Unpack this smart speaker from Bose's new Lifestyle collection and the first thing you appreciate is its build quality. Its rounded cabinet has a reassuring solidity — not heavy, but substantial enough to (somewhat) justify its price tag from the get-go. The knit fabric wrap is soft and tightly woven, floating in front of the main body; the touch-sensitive controls on top are satisfying to use; and there are no hollow panels or obvious joins you might occasionally spot on cheaper smart speakers.

At 184 x 121 x 167mm, it's smaller than I expected from online photos, but that allows it to slot into almost any room in the home, from a kitchen counter or bedside table, to a home office desk or a sideboard in the living room, and it looks good in all of them. The White Smoke version, which is more of a warm light grey, would be my preference of the two standard colours, but the black earns its place on display too. Like the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar, this is a speaker you'll be happy to leave out rather than tuck it into a cupboard out of sight, which is lucky, really, as out in the open is exactly where it performs best.

Features

The Lifestyle Ultra Speaker features a three-driver array inside its compact body. A 3-inch main driver and a 1-inch tweeter handle the bulk of the frequency range, and then there's the element that differentiates this speaker from its rivals: a 1.5-inch upfiring driver, with its positioning clearly visible from the grille on top.

Bose combines this with TrueSpatial processing — a proprietary algorithm that splits the audio signal between the forward and upward drivers, to push sound toward the ceiling and back down into the room, adding a sense of height that most conventional speakers aren’t able to produce from one position. CleanBass technology handles the lower end, working in combination with a rear-mounted QuietPort to coax more low-frequency depth than the size of this speaker would suggest it was capable of.

Those features mean placement is more important here than with a typical speaker, however. The company advises keeping at least 5cm of clearance between the speaker and any wall behind it to stop bass from building up unevenly, and the upfiring driver needs open space above it — a closed shelf or the underside of a TV cabinet or sideboard will muffle those upper frequencies considerably, so don’t go trying to hide it. On display with space around it, and it will thrive, but you might want to have a spot in mind before you buy.

From a connectivity perspective, Wi-Fi is unsurprisingly supported, delivering lossless audio for those using compatible streaming services like Apple Music or Tidal, and Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and Spotify Connect are also among its accolades. You’ll also find Bluetooth 5.3 for direct pairing, though the supported codecs top out at AAC and SBC, meaning you won’t find LDAC or aptX, which is a shame given the price point. You will find a 3.5mm analogue input at the rear, though, allowing for connecting this speaker up to a turntable, an older DAC, or anything else with a headphone output. Amazon’s Alexa smart assistant is also built in, and the Lifestyle Ultra Speaker is one of the first smart speakers outside Amazon's own lineup to support Alexa+.

Style

The Black version of this speaker sat quietly in my living room without drawing attention to itself, which is exactly what some people want. It’s low-key, traditional in its approach and exudes quality in both the materials and design. The White Smoke is a more deliberate design choice and in a room with light walls, pale wood, or natural textures, it would blend in beautifully, but both are lovely looking.

Controls across the top are capacitive rather than mechanical, grouped neatly toward the rear of the upper surface. Volume is handled by the same circular touch-sensitive wheel used on the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar. Similar to the old iPod wheel but without physical feedback, you trace a circle to adjust and tap for fine increments with it responding quickly. Separate buttons cover playback, Bluetooth pairing, muting the microphone (in case you’d rather turn Alexa off), and a configurable shortcut that can be set in the Bose app to jump to a specific playlist or speaker group. Status is communicated through two small LED indicators: one on the front, one on top for the mic mute, though both are discreet enough that you'd miss them if you weren't looking.

The speaker grilles are fixed rather than removable, which keeps the speaker looking neat over time, but that does mean it needs to stay out of reach of the small humans in your home and their grubby hands. My children are six and eight, and I don’t let them anywhere near the tech in my home, not least a speaker that can’t be cleaned easily. The Sonos Era 100 would be a better option if you want something you can wipe down. There's no built-in battery in the Bose Lifestyle Ultra Speaker either — this one lives plugged into the mains, which is another thing worth considering before you buy, especially if you’re someone who enjoys a garden party and would benefit more from a portable speaker.

Sound Quality

Put your favorite track on the Bose Lifestyle Ultra Speaker and the upfiring driver immediately makes itself known. There's a lovely spaciousness to the sound that you don't expect from a single speaker, especially not one as compact as this. It doesn’t just fill the room, but it gives the sense that the audio has somewhere to go above as well as out.

Vocals in particular feel elevated rather than anchored at speaker height, which gives certain tracks real depth. It's most noticeable on tracks with clean, separated mixes — acoustic recordings, orchestral, and anything with clearly defined instruments, where the TrueSpatial processing has decent material to work with.

Mid-range and treble are handled with confidence and precision throughout, too. The top end has bite without becoming wearing, and the overall tonal balance holds steady across genres rather than flattering one at the expense of another. Bass is tighter and more controlled than the Era 100 can manage at comparable volumes, though the Sonos digs deeper and plays louder overall — push the Bose beyond roughly 80 per cent and the dynamics start to compress. Within a sensible listening level, though, the quality of what the Lifestyle Ultra delivers is notably higher than what you'd get from most speakers in this bracket.

Its limitation is width — just like most solo speakers of this size. I was testing the Bose Lifestyle Ultra Speaker on its own but I suspect if you added another for a stereo pair, you’d have a much wider and more immersive experience.

Ease of Use

Plug this speaker in, open the Bose app, and follow the prompts to set it up. It's quick and the app walks you through everything clearly without overcomplicating it. Day to day, you'll barely need to open the app if you don’t want to, with the controls on the speaker handling the basics, and playback from Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music running directly through those respective apps if you're using Apple AirPlay or Google Cast. That means the whole experience can feel lighter than a lot of multi-room setups if you want it to.

Should you prefer however, the Bose app offers a three-band EQ - bass, mid, treble, plus a dedicated slider for the upfiring height channel. The default tuning is good enough that most won't feel the need to tinker, but if you do, it's all straightforward. It’s worth noting, however, that there’s no automatic room calibration like Sonos and its Trueplay, which is a strange omission at this price, especially given the Bose Lifestyle Soundbar has Bose’s respective CustomTune software. It means you can’t automatically adjust the sound output for your room, and while the EQ sliders offer some substitute, that’s all manual rather than automatic.

One last thing to add is that the Lifestyle Ultra Speaker cares less about brand loyalty than other multi room setups. You can group it with speakers from other manufacturers via Google Home and that worked without fuss for me. I also already mentioned Apple AirPlay and Google Cast, which too allow for grouping of speakers no matter what brand.

Extras

As I mentioned in my Bose Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar review, the Lifestyle Collection is built to be added to. The speaker works well on its own, but pair two for stereo and there should be a significant improvement in width. Add that stereo pair to the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar (£999.95) and Lifestyle Ultra Subwoofer (£899.95) and the full 7.1.4 home cinema configuration will give you a much more immersive experience that’s far superior to your TV’s built-in speakers.

The total cost for the complete setup runs to close to £2,500, which is a significant commitment, but the modular nature of the collection means you can reach that point gradually, adding pieces as and when it makes sense, or you have the budget, rather than buying everything at once.

For mounting and positioning, both a wall bracket (£79.95) and a floor stand (£149.95) are available separately. The floor stand is the more elegant of the two, with a channel built into the pole that routes the power cable neatly out of sight, which is handy if you're placing speakers as rear channels in a dedicated listening or cinema room. Software updates arrive automatically when the speaker is connected to Wi-Fi, so there's nothing manual to manage there.

Is It Worth It?

At £299.95, the Lifestyle Ultra Speaker sits in an interesting position. It’s the same price as the Sonos Play, but that speaker has the added advantage of being portable, and it’s more expensive than the Sonos Era 100, which remains a superb speaker with a well-established ecosystem behind it. There are also plenty of smart speakers at much lower prices that will play music, respond to Alexa, and join a multi-room group without complaint. The Amazon Echo Dot Max, for example, costs around £100 and covers those bases adequately.

If background audio and voice assistant access are all you need, the Bose Lifestyle Ultra speaker asks you to spend three times as much. But what you're paying for is sound quality that's in a different league thanks to that upfiring driver, a design that enhances a room rather than just occupying it, and the option to build toward a full home cinema system over time. If it's the whole picture you are looking for then – something that sounds excellent, looks the part, and has room to grow, then the Lifestyle Ultra Speaker is a super choice.

I've stepped out of my shower too many times to towels that have completely lost their fluff, making my evening wind-down routine less spa-like and more like summer camp or a travel hostel. No shade, but don't we all want our bathrooms to reflect a bit of considered wellness? It was time to invest in a new set of bath towels. I was looking for something soft, absorbent, quick-drying, and, of course, easy on the eye. And as I searched high and low for the best bath towels on the market, The White Company's Hydrocotton Bath Towels kept resurfacing.

"Incredibly soft, these are the best towels I have ever bought," one review said. "It's pure luxury. I will be buying more," another noted. As I scrolled, nearly all of the 300+ reviews continued with the same level of adoration. After reading the relentless praise, how could I not immediately add to cart? I was impressed but also intrigued. My London flat is... quite damp, so as much as I value luxury, I also value function. Quick drying abilities are a must, but not at the expense of fluff. So, all that was left to do was try these towels for myself.

Investing in high-quality fabrics is the easiest way to make your towels last longer, so after a few weeks of using these linens and evaluating post-wash, here are my honest thoughts and feelings.

How I Tested

First and foremost, the best bath towels need both form and function. Sure, we love a design-forward moment here at Livingetc, but the biggest bath towel mistake to make is choosing something solely based on aesthetics. When trying to elevate your routine, function really matters here.

So, for this review, I kept in mind a few different characteristics. For my specific space, fighting dampness was especially important, hence why I chose the Hydrocotton range. On top of that, I kept track of how the towels looked and felt upon initial review, as well as after use and washing over about a month.

Below you'll find a detailed review of everything from initial impression to material quality.

Initial Impression and Design

Full disclosure: I needed a totally new bath set, so I went big. I ordered two bath towels, two bath sheets, two hand towels, and a face cloth in the classic Hydrocotton design in white. Basically, I wanted the simplest, but crisp and elevated design I could get.

And initial impressions knocked it out of the park. The towels come neatly folded with the brand's signature ribbon and paper (a nice touch when you've just invested in a new set of linens), and wow, were they soft. Let's call it how it is: these towels were incredibly plush, expensive-looking, and transformative.

Absorbancy

The main test is how well a towel absorbs water and dries your skin. The worst feeling is stepping out of the bath, grabbing your new towel, only to find it gliding across your skin. It's painful really, and thankfully that couldn't be further from the case with these towels from The White Company — these were soft and perfectly absorbent on the first go.

In fact, they were so soft that they might even rival Cozy Earth's Bath Towels (although I might have to try those for myself, too, at some point). And the hand towels and face towels were just the same.

One thing I would note is that I was more keen to wash the face towels as I wanted them to be a little more worn in before using them on my sensitive skin.

Post Wash

After a week, I decided to throw these towels for a spin in the wash and see how they held up — that's the ultimate test after all. Once again, my flat in London is a harsh judge for these kinds of reviews. It's damp, and we don't have an in-unit dryer (like many London homes), so it's air-dry only. If the towels can stay soft through these conditions, then they are likely worth investing in.

And I'm happy to report not only that they washed and dried well, but they even managed to feel cozier. The slightly slick, new-towel feeling broke down, and what was left was an even softer material. And they don't lose their thickness, which is really important. Nothing's worse than watching your once-plush towel wear down to the size and feeling of a napkin.

However, I can't attest to their longevity, as the towels are still semi-new to me, but so far, so good. And if the online reviews are any judge, then the future looks bright.

Should You Buy The White Company's

So, are The White Company Hydrocotton Towels worth the hype? Yes. I'd say they most definitely are. They exceeded expectations on softness, absorbency, and overall coziness. So between my enthusiasm for my freshly stocked linen closet and the glowing reviews online, I'd say you are in safe hands with these White Company towels.

You might be spending a little more than you thought on towels, but it's an investment worth making if you value a nice nighttime routine.

The White Company Hydrocotton Bath Towels are the easiest way to make your bathroom feel more like a retreat. All you need now is a fluffy robe and a nice scent, and an at-home spa is right around the corner.

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I hate to say it, but I only recently became a bit of a bedding snob. Up to this point, I felt comfortable grabbing a set of cotton sheets from, say, IKEA, and calling it a day. The approach got me far, and I wouldn't fault you if you've operated similarly, but recently I was offered the opportunity to test some bedding from Cozy Earth, the über-soft loungewear retailer that has parlayed that same material success to become one of the best bedding brands, particularly in the US, and well, consider me converted.

The old me wouldn't have found it necessary to splurge this much for a plush duvet and a luxurious set of sheets, but the new me — the one that has just spent two weeks under Cozy Earth's new Bamboo Quilt — can hardly believe I went so long without taking the plunge.

A lightweight comforter alternative for hot, heavy sleepers, the Bamboo Quilt impressed me (though admittedly, not as much as the brand's Soft-Wash Cotton Duvet, which I also recently reviewed). Here are my honest thoughts on what I liked and what I didn't, and whether I think it's worth buying.

Is Cozy Earth's Bamboo Quilt Good Quality?

The short answer here is: yes, absolutely. Even if it's not the type of bedding I typically gravitate toward, I can confidently say that this is a really nice product. For one thing, it is every bit as cooling as it purports to be. I sometimes run hot while I sleep, but my fiancé runs hot every night. The other morning, he said to me, "I really like this blanket, by the way." (It's a quilt, but hey: a win's a win!)

I don't wake up kicking the sheets off my legs, nor do I toss and turn in the middle of the night because I'm just a little too warm. And this is just as much a benefit of bamboo bedding itself as it is of Cozy Earth; bamboo is naturally temperature-regulating and breathable.

The feel of the fabric is great, too. It's silk-like, but much more durable. The tufting adds some nice interest to what could otherwise be a somewhat boring blanket, and I was very pleased to see that it was machine washable (because who has the time to take their bedding to the dry cleaner?!)

How Is It To Sleep In Cozy Earth's Bamboo Quilt?

First, a disclaimer: Even though I am a hot sleeper, I like a fluffy blanket and one with a bit of weight. So that's one downside of the Bamboo Quilt, which is quite lightweight — for me anyway. That said, I slept very well while using it.

I don't have central air conditioning in my house, which means I rely on a heat pump in my bedroom to keep me cool at night; if you live in the UK, I suspect you're in a similar situation. So as much as I want something with a lot of weight on me, I have to acquiesce a bit in the summer season.

And Cozy Earth's Bamboo Quilt is an excellent choice for the warmer months, no doubt. It's soft and sleek on the skin, it's lightweight, and it's a breeze to sleep under. Plus, if it has my fiancé's stamp of approval, you know it's good.

How Easy Is Cozy Earth's Bamboo Quilt to Care For?

As I do with all new bedding, I threw the quilt and the sham in the laundry when they first arrived. The process went smoothly. Both washed up well and went through the dryer without issue. I would be less sure what to do if a mark developed on the fabric at some point; the material is so sleek and soft that it seems almost irresponsible to apply something like stain remover ... but I think that is a bridge you could cross when you get to it.

So far, I have only washed the quilt once, and it still has a bit of a sheen on top. Cozy Earth notes that this is a marker of quality (why, I'm not sure), but that it will fade over time/with each wash. For what it's worth, I have been sleeping with the quilt for about 1.5 weeks now, and the shine is still there, which I like.

How Stylish Is Cozy Earth's Bamboo Quilt?

Now, here is where my personal opinion will come into play. I do not think that the Cozy Earth Bamboo Quilt is as stylish as, say, the Soft-Washed Cotton Duvet Cover that I tested recently. And that is saying something, because the duvet cover is pretty plain; it's stylish because it is every bit as luxurious as it purports to be.

The quilt, however, leans a touch trad in my opinion. As I mentioned above, it probably wouldn't work if it were any smaller than what it is now... but I can't help but feel like it's just a touch too long on the sides. I personally love when my duvet/comforter hangs juuuust right over the sides of my mattress, and the quilt isn't quite there. That said, on a different bed, it could be a completely different story, but either way, I'd recommend actually measuring the dimensions in your space to avoid disappointment.

Where it does get some extra points, however, is in the subtle tufting in the surface of the fabric. These little details add the perfect amount of extra visual and tactile interest to your bedscape without requiring throws, shams, and bolsters, which is probably what you would need to add dimension to the Soft-Washed Cotton Duvet.

The Finer Details

A few additional things worth noting:

Packaging: I noted similarly in my last review for Cozy Earth, but I really enjoyed the way in which my order was packaged. The best online brands know that first impressions begin on the doorstep, and Cozy Earth lives up to that expectation. And they should, for that matter, especially when you're paying what you're paying. The pictures above show you how both pieces of my order arrived.

Wrinkles: The Bamboo Quilt and shams look quite wrinkly when they come out of the wash. Part of this was my fault; the website lists easy and clear care instructions, which involve a step to minimize creases during the wash process, and I did not follow them. Overall, the extra lines aren't really much of a bother in my opinion, but I thought I would mention them, just in case you might feel differently.

Is Cozy Earth's Bamboo Quilt Worth It?

Cozy Earth's Bamboo Quilt is of wonderful quality. It is well made, soft to the touch, and wonderful to sleep under. The cooling qualities are also quite nice if you consider yourself a hot sleeper. But if you like something with a little bit of weight to it, or run cold during the night, I would say this is not the product for you. The bottom line: consider your personal sleep preferences before pulling the trigger. If you fit the profile I laid out here and above, you'll be a happy camper.

But, as I mentioned before, the brand does way more than just bedding, and I've heard fabulous things about Cozy Earth's bath towels, too. Perhaps that's a lower-priced way to test the quality of the brand out for yourself, first.

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When you consider soundbars, certain brands immediately spring to mind. Sonos, for one, has built a formidable reputation in this space, and its Arc Ultra is the soundbar that almost everything else at the £1,000 price is judged against.

Bose is well known for its headphones and Bluetooth speakers, but its soundbar pedigree has been spottier, with the Smart Ultra Soundbar — the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar's predecessor — failing to truly threaten the Sonos Arc Ultra as the best soundbar.

But Bose's Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar is its most serious attempt yet to change that, and after spending a few weeks with this stylish soundbar, it’s an excellent one. The question is, can it knock Sonos off its throne?

First Impressions

Bose describes the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar as the biggest acoustic overhaul to its soundbar portfolio in a decade. It arrives with a completely redesigned speaker array, a brand new control interface, and an aesthetic that suggests someone at Bose has finally realised that looking great in a living room matters just as much as sounding great in one.

The Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar is available in two colorways, Black and White Smoke, with the Black model sent to me for review. I’d have loved to see the Driftwood Sand variant of the Bose Lifestyle Ultra Speaker available here too, but that wasn’t to be, sadly.

Still, the black and white models both look more interesting than most in the soundbar space (bar the retro Marshall Heston soundbar options), predominantly thanks to the reflective top and control panel, so that’s something to be celebrated.

Features

Underneath the fabric-and-glass exterior is a speaker system with heaps of ambition. The Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar offers a 5.0.2 configuration with a nine-driver architecture: six full-range drivers, a dedicated center tweeter for dialogue clarity, and two PhaseGuide drivers, which use proprietary processing to steer sound toward areas of the room where no speaker physically exists. Comparing Bose and Sonos again, it's the same principle that makes the Sonos Arc Ultra sound wider than you’d expect it to, and Bose applies it well here.

The '2' in that 5.0.2 count refers to two upfiring speakers, one at each end of the bar. Unlike some rivals that make a visual feature of their upward-firing ports, Bose has tucked these flush beneath the fabric so you wouldn't know they were there from the exterior. They fire sound vertically to add height to Dolby Atmos content, which means the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar needs to be kept clear of closed shelving above it. A cabinet with a TV resting overhead could block those channels entirely, so it's something to keep in mind when you’re planning furniture and placement.

Bass is handled by Bose's CleanBass technology, which delivers low-frequency output with depth and clarity without a separate woofer. I’ll go into more detail on that in the Sound section below, but if you are after more serious low-end heft, you can add the Lifestyle Ultra Subwoofer, while the Bose Lifestyle Ultra Speakers can also be added as surrounds for a more immersive experience.

On the connectivity front, you get HDMI eARC, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth 5.3. Alexa is built in, too, so there’s a decent list here.

It’s worth flagging that the eARC-only setup means this soundbar won't work with older TVs that lack an ARC or eARC port and rely on optical instead, however, so do make sure you check your TV before buying this soundbar. DTS is not supported either, only Dolby Atmos, and there's also no HDMI passthrough, though the Sonos Arc Ultra has the same limitation.

Style

This is one of the nicest-looking soundbars I've had the pleasure of reviewing recently. Most are black rectangles with little to write home about. You place them beneath the TV and try not to think about them or the fact that they are ruining your carefully considered décor. I’d go as far as to say the Bose Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar is instead something you might actually want on display. The White Smoke colorway is worth considering if you have a lighter interior, as it is one of the few soundbars that would complement rather than contrast with a pale or neutral room. That said, the Black looks great too; it’s just more conventional.

At 111cm wide and just 6.7cm tall, the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar sits with a low, assured profile that doesn't overpower the space around it, though I would advise using it with a TV no smaller than 55 inches, or it will dominate. The knit fabric that wraps the body feels premium to the touch and gives it warmth that matte plastic can't replicate. Stretching along the top is a glass panel that adds a sense of quality, while the circular touch-sensitive control wheel built into it is satisfying to use. Slide your finger clockwise to raise the volume, anti-clockwise to lower it, and tap to play or pause.

There are two design details worth flagging, though. First, that lovely glass top is highly reflective. With a bright TV screen above, you'll catch a mirror image of what's playing in the bar below, which can be distracting. Second, it really loves a fingerprint, and it enjoys dust too. If you regularly adjust the controls by hand rather than through the app or your TV remote, you'll find yourself wiping it down more than you’d probably like.

When it comes to TV wall mounting, it’s possible, as it is for the Sonos Arc Ultra, but the bracket is sold separately, so factor that into your budget. The bar is best positioned under your TV with at least 10cm clearance above, and Bose advises against mounting it above the screen.

Sound Quality

The Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar is not all looks and no function, though. Far from it, in fact. Fire up a Dolby Atmos film, and the soundstage really opens up, extending well beyond the physical edges of the bar and further than you might expect, with effects feeling well placed in the room. The upfiring speakers do good work here: there's actual height to the audio. Rain, aircraft, crumbling buildings, and anything that should sound like it's coming from above, seemingly does. That's not something every soundbar at this price can pull off convincingly.

It is worth doing the CustomTune room calibration, however. Like Sonos Trueplay, this uses your phone's microphone to measure your room's acoustics and adjust the soundbar's output accordingly, and without it, the Atmos presentation is noticeably flatter. Run it before you settle in for a serious movie session, and it will make a noticeable difference.

Dialogue is clear and consistently well anchored in the centre throughout. In busy scenes, it can be easy for voices to get lost in the mix, but the Lifestyle Ultra keeps speech intelligible without it feeling artificially boosted. The SpeechClarity mode in the app takes this further when you need it, using AI-driven, real-time processing to isolate vocals from background noise, lifting voices without simply raising the overall level. This was particularly useful for late-night viewing when you don't want to sacrifice atmosphere for the sake of a conversation.

The low end is impressive, too. Bass has decent punch and body without becoming muddy or overblown, with action sequences having good weight. I would say the Sonos Arc Ultra has more depth and is more impressive as a standalone soundbar, but for many, the Bose Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar will deliver more than enough.

Ease of Use

Setup is about as straightforward as it gets. Plug the included HDMI cable into your TV's eARC port, power it up, download the Bose app, and follow the simple steps. As I mentioned above, running the CustomTune calibration process at this stage is well worth the few extra minutes, and even with that factored in and any software updates, you should be up and running in under 30 minutes.

The Bose app has been significantly updated alongside the Lifestyle range, and it's now one of the better soundbar apps on the market. EQ is handled via simple bass/mid/treble sliders, but there's more available if you want it. You can independently adjust the centre channel level, the height mix, and the surround balance, which gives you good control over the presentation. Unlike Sonos, which has had a well-documented troubled relationship with its own app in recent years, the experience here is clean and a pleasure to use.

Day-to-day control is handled via the on-bar touch panel or your TV remote through HDMI CEC, which means the bar wakes and sleeps with the TV and responds to your normal volume buttons without additional setup. What you don’t get is a physical remote for the soundbar itself, and Bose doesn't sell one separately, either. The CEC integration means

Extras

What you do get with the Bose Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar, like Sonos, however, is the option to grow the system should you wish to. Out of the box, the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar is a 5.0.2 system, but add the Lifestyle Ultra Subwoofer (£899.95) and you get a great bass foundation with wireless connectivity, so there are no cables across the floor. Bring in a pair of Bose Lifestyle Ultra Speakers as rear channels (£299.95 each), and you have a full 7.1.4 system for a more immersive experience than a single bar, no matter how good, can replicate.

It's a lot of money all in (close to £2,500 for the complete setup), but the modular approach means you can build toward it gradually rather than committing to everything at once. Sonos operates similarly with its Arc Ultra, Sub, and Era 300 surrounds, so this isn't unique to Bose, but it's well executed here. The two systems are close enough in price and approach that which one suits you will likely come down to ecosystem preference and which one you'd rather look at.

Is the Bose Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar Worth It?

At £999.95, the Lifestyle Ultra goes head-to-head with the Sonos Arc Ultra, which is an interesting contest. The Sonos has deeper bass as a standalone bar and the benefit of a more mature, extensive ecosystem. If you already have Sonos products elsewhere in your home, the Arc Ultra is the natural choice. But the Bose counters with better design, a more refined app, and sound quality that's certainly close. For anyone starting fresh or coming from older kit, I wouldn't automatically hand the Sonos the win.

There are some omissions: the missing remote, the lack of HDMI passthrough, the reflective and smudge-prone glass, and a wall bracket that really should be included at this price. But the Lifestyle Ultra Soundbar is the best soundbar Bose has made, and that alone makes it worth your attention.

If you've been looking at a Sonos Arc Ultra and wondering whether there's a viable alternative that also looks great in your living room, the answer is yes — it’s this.

It's no secret that this summer has been absolutely sweltering from the onset. And in the name of preparation, I've had my sights set on Dyson's HushJet Mini Cool Fan (here from Amazon). The brand reputation and admittedly sleek form were enough to convince me to test the fan out.

A hard-working, good-looking portable fan is at the top of my list of things to buy before a heatwave. But is the Dyson HushJet worth it? I tested it through the start of London's summer to see how it fares — and my verdict? It does live up to the hype.

And, I guess, don't just take my word for it. As I write this review, it's very hot out, so unsurprisingly, Dyson's HushJet Mini is sold out pretty much everywhere in the UK (except for this cool Ink/Cobalt version at Dyson), though available for preorder on Amazon. It is still available to buy from Amazon if you live in the US, though. If you want something urgently now (for which I don't blame you at all), I've also tested Shark's ChillPill, which I rated highly, and also discounted for Amazon's Prime Day right now.

But, back to the HushJet Mini — before you decide on whether this portable fan is a fit for you, and preorder it, here's what you should know.

Is the Dyson HushJet Mini Good Quality?

I'm not one for Dyson slander when it comes to quality. And the HushJet is no exception. At just 212g, it's a high-powered fan that is heavy enough to feel well-made, but light enough to comfortably tote on vacation or on sunny days out.

As far as gadgets to help you feel cool during a heatwave, the HushJet effortlessly makes a case for cooling yourself down without losing out on style points. But how powerful is the airflow?

How Does the Dyson HushJet Mini Hold Up in the Heat?

The Dyson HushJet's airflow is on par with its style. It works extremely hard to offer comfort on balmy summer days. With five speed settings, you can operate on the lowest for six hours. And at a maximum of one hour, when continuously set to the highest speed.

It's one of my hacks for spending time in the heat more comfortably. But I will admit that the higher settings on the fan aren't as quiet as the low hum on speeds one and two. However, if you ask me, it's a small price to pay to cool yourself off quickly.

How Does the Dyson HushJet Mini Rank on Style?

The Dyson HushJet design was the first characteristic to draw my attention. And you know only aesthetically-led objects get the Livingetc stamp of approval. While the actual head of the fan does feel slightly extra-terrestrial in its design, I find that it lends to the cool factor of the HushJet.

Additionally, the base itself feels sleek in its matte metallic finish. And in just 10 days of testing, I have already received a couple of compliments and queries around it.

Is the Dyson HushJet Mini Worth It?

At about £100, I would say that the Dyson HushJet is worth it. It feels like a long-lasting investment, and it's one of the more chic portable electric fans I've come across of late.

Especially, if you want a light-weight electric fan to carry on holiday, or while you're sunning yourself at one of the cool London hotels with pools, this is a sleek, design-forward option that should be on your radar.

All in all, a portable fan should be on your summer travel packing list. And I dare you to find one that looks better than this launch from Dyson.

To stay ahead of these quick-to-sell-out launches, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter. Even off the clock, it's where I go for trusty design inspo!

When it comes to pizza ovens, particularly design-led pizza ovens, you’d be forgiven for thinking these modern, lusted-after cooking accessories were exclusive to homes with sprawling outdoor spaces — but I’m pleased to inform you that this is not the case. While iterations of indoor pizza ovens have been available on the market for some time — the first dating back to 2018 — Ooni's Volt 2 is the premium pizza brand's very first indoor-only pizza oven.

I've tested many pizza ovens over the past four years, but this was my first time testing an indoor model, so I was very keen to see how it would compare to its outdoor counterparts. What Ooni has done with the Volt 2 is take all the learnings from its indoor-outdoor Volt 12 electric oven model to inform the build of the ultimate indoor pizza oven. Kristian Tapaninaho, Ooni's founder and co-CEO, describes the Volt 2 as the "most technologically advanced indoor pizza oven available today." Using a patent-pending Pizza Intelligence™ control system that adjusts heat in real time, the oven allows you to make restaurant-quality pizzas at the touch of a button.

Most notably, though, the Volt 2 is 30% smaller than the original Volt 12 — yet it still has the same size cooking area. This means it can sit neatly on your counters, while also fitting in your cupboard when you're not using it. So for pizza lovers without the luxury of an outdoor area, small-space dwellers, or fair-weather pizza makers, the Volt 2 is undoubtedly the most stylish countertop pizza oven available.

First Impressions

I've always been impressed with Ooni's meticulous packaging — no plastic here, either! And I thought the pizza oven looked pretty smart indeed when I took it out of the box. I tested the featured Polar White model, but it's also available in a Charcoal Gray colorway, and it has a matte, textural finish rather than glossy.

Now, it's not the lightest of machines — I can lift it and move it, yes, but I wouldn't describe it as particularly lightweight; in fact, it's actually quite heavy. However, it is movable, and it fits very neatly on my kitchen countertop and in my kitchen cupboard as well.

Although I didn't try Ooni's original electric pizza oven — the indoor/outdoor Volt 12 — I was very keen to see how the brand's new Pizza Intelligence™ control system would work in practice. Described by Ooni as having a "unique element design [that] works alongside internal sensors to adjust the oven’s temperature in real time for speed, accuracy and baking consistency."

This would be very different from my experience with cooking pizzas in outdoor pizza ovens, navigating the flame and elements at the same time, so here goes!

Testing Ooni's Volt 2 Pizza Oven

It really was a whole new world of pizza-making using an indoor pizza oven. Without a dedicated outdoor kitchen, there was no need to be on 'rain watch', and, as much as I like turning pizzas while they're cooking because it makes me feel like a total pro(!), it was also enjoyable not having to be glued to the pizza to assess when it was ready for turning during the process — particularly helpful when hosting.

(It's also worth pointing out, though, that if you have an Ooni pizza oven from the Koda 2 range, its new rotating stone eliminates the need to turn pizzas manually, too!)

My husband particularly liked the idea of the electric indoor pizza oven because we could "run it for free with our solar panels" — a slight obsession of his, but ultimately a very good point. And it was handy having the pizza oven in the kitchen right next to all of our cooking accessories and particularly right next to our kitchen island, which we always use to prep the doughs — a seamless sweep of the peel from the end of the island over to the pizza oven on the counter.

It's not a particularly quiet machine, though — particularly when compared to outdoor pizza oven varieties, which typically make no sound — and this is down to its high-speed internal cooling fans. But it's definitely not totally off-putting, at least I didn't think so.

It took roughly 20 minutes to reach the temperature for cooking, and then it took the standard 90 seconds to cook the pizza, just like the majority of top-performance outdoor pizza ovens — and it tasted just as delicious, too.

The Volt 2 isn't just for cooking pizzas either — with five different modes, you can also bake, roast and grill, too. It is, however, worth checking which of your trays fit in the oven, especially before attempting to cook something — I overzealously got everything organized to test baking muffins before realizing that none of my current trays were compatible: big fail on my part.

Should You Buy Ooni's Volt 2 Pizza Oven?

If you don't have an outdoor space, or if you live in a building that doesn't allow appliances with fire on a balcony, for example, or if you only cook outdoors when the weather's nice and you live in the UK(!) without a covered outdoor space, then this indoor pizza oven is the perfect alternative.

It's not super affordable, though, making it an investment piece requiring careful consideration. If you only envisage using it once in a while, I would suggest it may not be worth the expense, plus it will take up a whole shelf inside your kitchen cabinet, which is a waste if it's only for occasional use.

However, if you have the budget, love making pizzas regularly, and/or love to host frequently, then this is a worthy, design-forward addition to your collection of kitchen appliances from one of the most premium pizza oven brands out there.

Ooni Pizza Accessories

Without the right pizza oven accessories, even the most wonderful pizza oven won't be as easy to use — these are my top three Ooni accessories to make your pizza-making experience smoother, more enjoyable, and, of course, stylish, too.

I have also tried Ooni's Dough Balls, which were good — I absolutely loved the fancy 100% reusable wool insulation that they arrived in; top marks for eco credentials there — but I have to say, I prefer the pizzas when we make the dough from scratch, and I must admit, Ooni's Type "00" Pizza Flour is our absolute favorite.

If you want to start making restaurant-grade pizzas at home, then these are my Ooni pizza oven tips to ensure you're prepped for success.

For more ideas for your indoor and outdoor spaces, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

I’m semi-embarrassed to say it as an interiors obsessive, but I’ve never cared too much about bedding. Do I strive to stay abreast of the latest and greatest offerings in the space? Absolutely; it’s part of the gig, of course. But when I go to cover my personal four-poster, well, I’ve always found that a simple, affordable high-street buy gets the job done fine.

That’s what intrigued me so much about the opportunity to review some sheets from the relaunched Soft-Wash Cotton range from Cozy Earth, one of the best bedding brands on the market right now. Did this mean it was high time to see what I was missing? And, when given the chance to change my mind, would I stick to my conviction that budget bedding is good enough?

Well, after two weeks under the covers, I can safely say (and begrudgingly, so) that yes, quality sheets and duvets make a difference … and a big difference at that. In fact, I had half a mind to write this review from my bed because I’d rather hang out there all day than on my couch. (Yes, I am serious.)

Is Cozy Earth's Soft-Wash Cotton Bedding Good Quality?

The short answer here is yes; yes, it is.

Although some might argue that it is the least important part of this review, I knew I was in for a treat when I received the bedding in the mail. In my experience, the best brands are the ones that know the vibe check begins at the point of reception. The manner in which buyers receive the product must feel as streamlined, fabulous, and high-end as the product itself.

I was pleased to learn that Cozy Earth was well aware of this paradigm. Both the sheet set and duvet cover were wrapped in lovely cloth packages (pictured above), made of a similar (if not the same) fabric as the bedding. Pretty immediately, I knew I was in for a treat. (Plus, knowing how to neatly store the bedding was already sorted.)

Moreover — although it sounds redundant — “soft-washed cotton” really is the appropriate name here. I mean, these pieces are genuinely supple and sumptuous — a completely different finger feel than the 400 thread-count sheets I’ve used for years (which are totally fine in their own way, but don’t hold a candle to these). As it says in the description, the fabric is truly ultra-soft.

How Is It To Sleep In Cozy Earth's Soft-Wash Cotton Bedding?

As I do with all new bedding, I gave both the duvet and the sheet set a wash before putting them on my bed. Then, my nightly testing began.

Truthfully, I realized pretty immediately that I was sleeping better in my new sheets. I hardly tossed and turned, and it was that much harder to get up in the morning (which could be a pro or a con depending on how you spin it). If you are already used to extremely supple sheets, perhaps your reaction won’t be as profound as mine. But from where I was sitting — or sleeping, to be more apt — the juxtaposition between my budget bedding set and this one was stark.

When initially wrapping the fitted sheet around the mattress, I was almost concerned at how large it seemed, enveloping my Queen-sized bed. It wasn’t a problem, per se, but I did clock how it felt like perhaps too much fabric for the size. But after a few weeks of testing, I'm no longer worried at all. I think the large size is why I have not had to adjust the fitted sheet once since putting it on. It sits firm on my mattress and does not budge — a luxury I didn’t know I needed.

As for the duvet cover, it’s fabulously soft and delightfully cozy. I don’t mind my insert, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the cover I had before this and was keen to replace it (neither of those items were Cozy Earth, to be clear). Now, I genuinely look forward to wrapping myself up in bed each night. Moreover, the duvet cover itself is not too heavy; it doesn’t add a lot of weight to the insert, so hot sleepers should be fine to invest without worry.

I would, however, take a bit of caution with the sheets. They are fabulous and not too weighty. But, as someone who gets a hot flash or two in the middle of the night, there are brief moments that I crave something with more of a cloth-y finish, rather than the smooth/glossy feel you get here. I would still call the fabric breathable, but there is still an aspect of it that could be airier, in my opinion.

How Easy Is Cozy Earth's Soft-Wash Cotton Bedding to Care For?

So far, I have laundered both the sheets/pillowcases and duvet cover just one time — when they first arrived. That process went as normally as you’d hope. Both did come out of the dryer quite wrinkled, but that is, in my opinion, to be expected. And, in the case of the duvet cover, the creases have continued to fall out over time — every day, it looks a little smoother.

I thought about steaming everything to give the bed a much tidier look from the get-go, but ended up deciding against this just from a time perspective. And if you have a lot of pillows and accoutrements on top of your bed, it shouldn’t be a problem, anyway.

How Stylish Is Cozy Earth's Soft-Wash Cotton Bedding?

From a quality standpoint, Cozy Earth really impressed me. Stylistically, however, it’s not necessarily something to write home about. And I mean that less as a knock on the brand and more as a factual statement about the semi-one-dimensional nature of bedding.

There are no patterns in the soft-wash cotton line, so solid colors are all you can work with. There aren't an abundance of colorways, either (unlike what you'd see at a brand like Bed Threads).

That said, I think you could easily fit these pieces into your existing design scheme — which perhaps you’d spruce up with decor and throw pillows of a more exciting variety — and call it a day. They'd look minimalist and high-quality on their own, no doubt, just not trendsetting, per se. You really just want these products because they are truly as soft as they claim to be.

The Finer Details

A few additional things worth noting:

Packaging: I already touched on this briefly, but it’s worth noting that Cozy Earth does package its products quite nicely. I was impressed at how compact the delivery was, given the size of my order, and thought the buttoned pouch was a great touch.

Duvet Closure: Perhaps it is personal preference, but I do not like to see where my duvet cover is meant to close. You certainly wouldn’t think that, considering the duvet I had previously was secured together with eight all-too conspicuous wooden buttons, but the Cozy Earth option is much more my speed. The duvet closes with a zipper that then tucks inside the cover, meaning you can hide the closure entirely.

Duvet Ties: In Cozy Earth's case, the duvet ties are actually snap closures, which were easy to use but no easier than a typical tie in my opinion. This was neither a positive nor a negative.

Is Cozy Earth's Soft-Wash Cotton Bedding Worth It?

As a budget bedding evangelist, it shocks me to say this, but … yes, I would invest in this product again. I don’t think you need this bedding; it is expensive, and a cheaper option would suit just fine.

But — but — if you are hoping to level up in terms of your bedding experience, I think this range is exactly what the doctor ordered. It feels every bit as luxurious as its price tag suggests, and I did think to myself, “This would be worth it to pay for.” Plus, Cozy Earth just dropped new colors of its Soft-Wash Cotton bedding.

Once you've sorted the bedding, find out what we thought of Cozy Earth's bath towels.

As someone who gets hot quite often, I started planning for this year's warm weather in advance. And at the top of my want list was a sleek portable fan. Then I spotted the likes of Alix Earle sporting the Shark ChillPill at Coachella. Followed by Justin Bieber releasing his own now sold-out limited-edition colorway of this chic fan.

Safe to say, that was enough to inspire me to give the ChillPill a chance. And after a month of living with it, it's at the top of my recommendations for things to buy before a heatwave.

It's easy to use, efficiently cooling, and has a long-lasting battery for those never-ending days in the sun. And above all, it's actually good-looking. The pictures just don't do the fan justice. But there are some things to know about the fan before you add it to cart. So, here's my review to help you decide if it's worth it.

Is the Shark ChillPill Good Quality?

Yes, the Shark ChillPill is absolutely good quality. Weighing in at 350g, it's comfortably light to carry around but heavy enough to know that it's crafted with high-quality materials.

It's one of the best gadgets for a heatwave, especially if you plan to be out and about. And the long battery life is the final aspect that seals the deal on this portable fan.

How Does the Shark ChillPill Hold Up in the Heat?

The Shark ChillPill features three settings for beating the heat. A fan for classic, consistent cooling, a misting attachment with a small space to fill with water for a refreshing spritz, and a satisfying cooling plate to press to your skin.

So, you can step out or move around with your attachment of choice — mine would be the fan. Or if you're carrying a bag with you, then the remaining attachments are just as portable. And all it takes to switch one of the other is a quick twist.

It's also worth noting that the fan and mist are fairly quiet on lower settings but tend to get louder as you dial up the fan's intensity or speed. The cooling plate is the quietest option of all three.

How Does the Shark ChillPill Rank on Style?

As far as portable, handheld fans go, the Shark ChillPill is one of the most stylish electronic designs I've ever come across. I'll be honest, when I first scrolled through pictures of the fan on my screen, I was not convinced of how sleek it would look in real life.

But after seeing the fans in person, I can confidently say that the pictures don't do the product any justice. The mixed matte and shiny finish, along with the vibrant colors and the twistable form, make it a fashionable fan for the warmer months.

Is the Shark ChillPill Worth It?

Yes, the Shark ChillPill is worth it. At £130, you benefit from the three cooling settings in one chic design-y fan that's portable and long-lasting. It'll keep you from overheating on public transport, while you stroll the city, or even when you're trying to keep cool at outdoor restaurants.

And the fact that the ChillPill is tough to get your hands on is a testament to its very real hype. But if your color of choice is sold out by the time you're reading this, then here are some alternatives.

Looking for more ways to cool down? Perhaps it's time to get a taste of the best ice cream in London, read our hot sleeper guide, or treat your home to Shark's Turboblade in a new butter yellow. And in the meantime, so you don't miss out on the coolest launches (literally and otherwise), sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.

It's been a couple of weeks since I refreshed my bedscape to usher in the new season. While fabric is at the top of consideration when dressing your bed by the time of year, so is color. And it just so happens that Cozy Earth's famously rated Bamboo Bed Set has launched in a pleasant blue that's perfect for spring.

Aptly named 'River', this balanced, soft blue is one of the best sheet colors for sleep. This limited edition set is selling fast, and having tested it myself, I can't say I'm surprised.

Aside from this bamboo bundle being awarded on Oprah's Favorite Things from 2018, and Kris Jenner touting it as one of her favorite sheets for hot sleepers in late 2024, it's this soothing new color that finally led me to see if the hype is real. Here's what I have to say.

And right now, Cozy Earth's bamboo bedding has 25% off for Amazon's Prime Day, so there's no better time to get in on the action.

Is Cozy Earth's Bamboo Bedding Good Quality?

As bedroom trends shift towards creating a cocooning space that aligns with your wellness goals, bedding is becoming a considered part of the space, going beyond just style.

And when it comes to Cozy Earth's bedding, at first touch, you can tell that quality and aesthetics are equally prioritized. The soft sheets are crafted from 100% bamboo viscose and feel much softer than expected.

The fabric feels high quality, and after sleeping in it for a week, the only downside I've come across is slight creasing. But if I'm being honest, this is true of most bamboo bed linen I've dressed my mattress in. And I've found that a quick steam (if you're as particular), a fabric spray spritz, or a firm dusting can, for the most part, solve this issue.

How Is Cozy Earth's Bamboo Bedding to Sleep in?

I've tried bamboo bedding before, and there have been some sets that just don't deliver on coziness. Cozy Earth's, however, are luxuriously soft to the touch. And as a hot sleeper myself, I was just as impressed by its temperature regulation.

It feels cool when you first tuck yourself in and eventually relaxes, never warming or overheating the bed. The color also plays a role in calming the ambiance of the space and setting the tone for sleep.

On the whole, I found myself comfortably drifting off to sleep in these silky sheets every single night without complaint. And I have a feeling it'll make a repeated appearance on my bed once London summers come around.

How Does Cozy Earth's Bamboo Bedding Rank on Style?

First things first, it's undeniable that 'River' is such a lovely color to drape your bed in. And once I reset my home for spring, I knew I had to get these sheets out. Aside from it being one of the best colors for sleep, it also fits into the bright vibe of the season.

Plus, the almost silken look of the bamboo viscose fabric softens the space and adds a luxe look to even a simple, pared-back bed. For a spring bedroom spruce, I recommend pairing it with these matching River Bamboo Pillowcases, or this Laurel Silk Pillowcase for a mellow pop of pastel.

Is Cozy Earth Bedding Worth It?

Now, I won't ignore the weighty price tag. But if you're looking to truly invest in your bedding, this bundle is a great place to start. The attention to detail alone makes a great case for this set.

Aside from being comfortable, dipped in a silky blue, and a great overall addition to a low-cortisol bedroom for wellness, this set arrives in a fabric case crafted from the same material.

So, as cooler months approach and your spring-summer bedscape goes into temporary retirement, you have a neat way to store it. And across the some 9,400 five-star reviews, the most mentioned compliments include those of easy washing and high quality that stands the test of time.

Since this limited edition style is already flying off the shelves, here are some alternative palettes from Cozy Earth that I recommend for your spring bedscape.

More Blue Bedding for Better Sleep

Another Cozy Earth accessory I've received so many compliments on is the Channel Cuddle Blanket. It's the only thing that makes cold weather cozy in my home. For hotter weather, try Cozy Earth's Soft-Wash Cotton bedding.

But since we're onto warmer months, I recommend signing up for the Livingetc newsletter for more advice on dressing your home for the season.

I've come to love a decently-sized, semi-automatic espresso machine; one with a built-in grinder, steaming wand, and adjustable grind settings. In fact, anything else is going to have a hard time turning my head these days. Unless, of course, it's got a really stunning design — like the Philips Baristina Espresso Machine.

It's a smaller-scale machine that feels like a good entry point in terms of convenience and style. Not only is it smaller than your typical espresso machine, but its price also starts at a much more affordable £300 (or £380 for the option with a milk frother).

I recently tested the Philips 5500 Series, so I am freshly familiar with the automated, high-tech features of the brand's machines — they're impressive and tend to be a little more hands-off (which may or may not be a good thing to you). The Baristina caught me by surprise. I was instantly struck by its good looks, but left praising the quality of the coffee. Intrigued? Here's my detailed review of the Philips Baristina Espresso Machine.

First Impressions

Right off the bat, this is a good-looking coffee machine. The off-white colorway I tested has a nice creamy tone and a semi-matte finish. It's contemporary-looking but still has that classic coffee maker silhouette. And it would be a fabulous choice for anyone looking for small countertop appliances or a machine that easily tucks into a coffee corner or coffee nook.

However, its shell is mostly made of plastic, which is great for cleaning and making it lightweight, but the model is slightly flimsier than other stainless steel appliances I've reviewed.

That said, one of the biggest selling factors is that the Philips Baristina is just £300 (largely due to this material choice). For just £80 more, you can get the Baristina machine with a milk frother, which I'd recommend, as otherwise you will have to invest in a separate milk steaming system.

Testing the Machine

Full disclosure: I got ahead of myself when testing this machine. I’ve tested a few espresso makers in the last few months, so I decided to ditch the instruction manual and follow my instincts. I rinsed each part, ran an empty cycle to clean the system, put the beans in the hopper, and brewed my first shot.

To my surprise, there was more to this machine than meets the eye. For example, the portafilter tamps itself and transitions from grinding to brewing mode without you having to touch a thing. The process felt like a balanced blend of high-tech and convenience without getting too robotic. Not to mention the espresso was higher quality than something similar in size, like the Nespresso Vertuo Pop or the fully automatic like the Philips 5500 series.

Then it was time to test the milk steaming attachment. Usually, a separate milk container can distract from the machine's design, but this one matches the aesthetic of the machine, is opaque, and is easy to clean.

However, it's not the best for milk frothing techniques, if that is something you value. There is really only one setting, and the result is silky, hot milk with a thick layer of foam (like a cappuccino). It's easy to use and tastes delicious, but you can't really get a nuanced drink variety with it, per se.

Quality of Coffee

The quality of the coffee is what shocked me the most (in the best way). Quality can sometimes be lost when you’re working with a smaller machine, especially when it’s a more automated appliance. However, the Baristina produced shot after shot of espresso with silky crema layers.

And since there is a built-in grinder, you can count on your grinds always coming out fresh (which is the easiest way to make your coffee machine work better and your coffee taste better). The Baristina has the same cafe-quality as any comparable semi-automatic machine or grinder, like the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic or the Smeg coffee grinder.

Should You Buy the Philips Series 5500 Fully Automatic Coffee Machine?

So, is the Philips Baristina the right machine for you? This is a great appliance if you want to level up your coffee routine, without committing to a very large or expensive machine.

Its modern build looks very stylish on the counter (a big pro for all design-obsessed individuals), and despite its slim size, the Baristina has several high-tech features. For instance, the automated tamping and brewing function. Not having to tamp the grinds into the portafilter is a huge perk as well. It means you don't have to fuss with accessories like a tamper, tamping mat, or even certain brushes.

The Baristina will streamline your morning routine, without sacrificing the quality or taste of your espresso. If you really value a nuanced milk-based drink, then maybe a machine like the De'Longhi Dedica Duo with an attached steaming wand is the better choice. Or, you can always invest in a separate milk frother to accompany the machine.

Other Philips Coffee Accessories

The Philips Baristina is easily one of the best small coffee machines I've tested. It's a step up from a coffee pod machine in terms of espresso quality, but it's not as big of an investment as a large semi-automatic. Sound like the machine for you?

For more coffee reviews and inspiration to upgrade your morning routine, be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter.

IKEA's original glossy orange lamp has been a main character in the realm of internet viral interior finds since its release in 2023. And now, the Scandi brand has released a new, frosted, smart version that claims to be much more customizable. So, I put the IKEA VARMBLIXT to the test, and it did not disappoint.

While I would put it up there with some of the best IKEA products, there are a couple of specifics about the lamp you should know before you adopt it into your home. Simply put, it's more diverse than the original donut and a stylish addition to homes built around sensory design and vibe-y aesthetics.

However, it's not as flexible without a home hub to pair with. But before I get into the technicalities, let's start with the lamp's quality.

Is IKEA's VARMBLIXT Lamp Good Quality?

IKEA is beloved for providing high-quality homewares on a humble budget. And as far as table lamps are concerned, the VARMBLIXT is no exception. The lamp itself is fairly heavy, which in part is due to its durable glass top.

Although I'm partial to cordless lamps, I will admit that the cord on the VARMBLIXT also boasts a more premium finish than typical plastic-clad wiring. Additionally, the lamp also comes with a mini remote control that adds to the overall user quality of the light.

"We spent a lot of time fine-tuning the transitions between the curated colors," says Sabine Marcelis, interior designer, artist, and creative behind the VARMBLIXT revamp. "What makes this lamp unique is that switching between colours is not a sudden change, but a very smooth journey through all the hues to get to the next color."

This updated function in the VARMBLIXT is another factor that elevates its experience in defining the way your space glows, and speaks to the quality of its functioning.

Does IKEA's VARMBLIXT Lamp Work Well?

Moving on to the actual working of IKEA's VARMBLIXT, I'm impressed and not in the least bit surprised that this donut lamp is a contemporary favorite. Although the comment section under the product features some users feeling frustrated by the setup, I found the instruction guide quite straightforward.

Living in a furnished studio with lighting designed into the space, I haven't found the need for a smart system to control my space. This means that I don't get to reap the benefits of the hyper-customization you can unlock with the DIRIGERA hub or a larger recognized home networking hub.

Having said that, I'm quite content with the preset color options, including white, amber, warm red, pink, lavender, turquoise, and yellow tones. And the ability to dim the light with the battery-controlled remote allows you to control the ambiance with a click.

How Does IKEA's VARMBLIXT Lamp Rank on Style?

Having been such a fan of the original glossy finish on the VARMBLIXT, I had some reservations about the frosted finish. But I stand corrected, as this mellow finish has made it a soothing addition to my bedroom lighting scheme.

With regards to the silhouette of the VARMBLIXT, the iconic donut shape adds a softness to my space. And the base is cleverly designed to be well concealed, so you don't have to worry about it stealing the shine away from the glass top.

So, if you ask me, the VARMBLIXT definitely has a style factor to it. The cord is the only thing tainting the vision ever-so-slightly. However, I've spotted some interior enthusiasts braiding and beading around the wire to conceal it.

Is IKEA's VARMBLIXT Lamp Worth It?

Yes, IKEA's VAMRBLIXT is absolutely worth it. It's stylish, high-quality, and easy to work with. Plus, it has a lifetime of around 25,000 years. So, if you keep your VARMBLIXT on for three hours a day, it'll happily live on for 20 years or so.

If your home is already kitted out with other IKEA products like the smart sensors and motion sensor lights, then you probably have a hub. Which means that you'll have access to a whole new level of color customization. This is also possible if you have another Matter-compatible smart home framework, from Alexa to Google Home, and Apple HomeKit.

At £55, I'd go as far as to say the VARMBLIXT is a steal. But if it's out of stock or you want to explore other options, then here are some alternatives.

If you're looking for a more muted way to illuminate your space, IKEA's Ilse Crawford collection is a must to snoop through. And for more reviews of the latest homewares, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.

I've tested a lot of different pizza ovens and accessories over the years, but a rotating stone was a first for me. While there are rotating pizza ovens on the market, Ooni's newly-launched Rotating Pizza Oven Stone is the first to feature hands-free control, allowing you to start and pause rotation with a simple wave of a hand or pizza peel. It fully eliminates the need for manual turning while ensuring even heat distribution for a perfect bake. Needless to say, I was keen to test it out for myself to see how it compared.

When you think of pizza ovens, Ooni is likely the first brand that comes to mind. Known for high-quality, design-led ovens, it launched the first-ever portable pizza oven in 2012, opening the door to a whole new era of outdoor entertaining. So I didn't doubt that the rotating stone would be as premium and polished as its other designs. "We identified a market crowded with products that fall short on reliability and engineered a solution that is as elegant as it is durable," explains Kristian Tapaninaho, founder of Ooni. "The Koda 2 Rotating Stone Range makes cooking simpler, more intuitive, and more enjoyable.”

Reported as the number one problem by Ooni pizza oven owners, the challenge of manually turning pizzas in the oven is solved by the rotating stone. But I was keen to see how it worked in practise and if it was worth the extra investment, so I put it to the test.

First Impressions

As with all of Ooni's products, the rotating stone came well-packaged, and the innovative design is as clever as it is easy to install. With a very clear instruction booklet, it took under 10 minutes to get the stone set up in the pizza oven.

After removing the original pizza stone, four screws attach the motor, which is powered by four AA batteries that are included. The only downside is that the batteries are not rechargeable — but you could buy your own set of 8xAA Rechargeable Batteries with a Charger on Amazon, to save you from buying new ones each time they run out, saving both your pocket and the planet.

The motor can run continuously for approximately seven hours on a set of AA batteries, though, so unless you're having marathon pizza parties every night, it should last you quite a long time!

The rotating stone itself comprises five parts — four corners, with a central circle that rotates. You can control the rotating stone using either the function button, hands-free sensor, or Ooni Connect™ Digital Temperature Hub (included with Koda 2 Pro and Koda 2 Max models, and also compatible with the Koda 2, if you wish to buy it separately).

Testing the Rotating Stone

It took about 20 minutes for the stone to reach temperature — which you need to check with an Infrared Digital Thermometer if you don’t have the Koda 2 Pro or Max which have a built-in thermometer — which is the same time it would take to heat up a standard pizza stone. I was ready to get testing.

So my first go was not perfect. I was testing garlic pizza bread initially (my youngest's favorite) before doing some simple Margheritas and was too used to using a turning peel in the pizza-making process that I didn't trust the stone was moving quickly enough, and tried moving it around myself too soon — alas, the base didn't cook evenly.

I learned to trust the process, and after the third pizza, I was getting in my groove. I just needed to adjust the flame to be a little lower, roughly half on the dial, to ensure it cooked as evenly as possible. As with anything, it takes a bit of adjusting to get it right.

It took a little over 90 seconds to cook each pizza, possibly closer to 2 minutes, but this is the same again as cooking on the standard pizza stone. Though, I have to say, I personally enjoy turning the pizza in the oven when it's cooking — it makes me feel like a proper pro! — but I can absolutely see that a rotating stone is ideal for outdoor hosting.

And the pizzas were just as delicious as those baked on the standard pizza stone. Plus, the rotating stone can also be used for rotisserie-style cooking — simply change the rotation from continuous to timed turning — so if you're a serious host or cook, you've got added flexibility with the rotating stone, too.

Should You Buy Ooni's Rotating Stone?

Firstly, the rotating stone is only compatible with Ooni's Koda 2 range, so unless you already have one of the Koda 2 models or are planning on buying one, it will not work with any other pizza oven.

If you do have one, though, and are looking for a way to make pizza-making easier, particularly when hosting larger groups, then Ooni's rotating stone will absolutely do just that. It allows you to enjoy all the benefits of homemade pizza when catering for family and friends on those glorious summer days and evenings, without spending the entire time with your head in the oven (not literally, of course!). You can sit back and let the stone do the hard work for you.

I wouldn't, however, recommend the rotating stone to anyone who truly loves the physical pizza-making process from start to finish, as this removes one of the key elements of it. It's also worth noting that the rotating stone is on the pricier side, costing more than half of the Koda 2 pizza oven itself, so you would need to be sure it was worth the investment.

If you regularly host, have the budget, and are looking for a way to make cooking pizzas outdoors in your Koda 2 easier and more efficient, then Ooni's rotating stone may just be your new best friend.

Other Ooni Pizza Accessories

A sure-fire way to make your pizza-making experience easier at home is to have the right pizza oven accessories. These are my three top picks from Ooni's range that deliver on style and practicality.

There's no denying that Ooni's rotating stone will make outdoor hosting with a Koda 2 pizza oven effortless this season, but whether the investment is worth it for you will come down to your lifestyle and your budget.

For more ways to make the most of your outdoor space this season, subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter, and all the latest will be delivered directly to your inbox.

I test a lot of coffee machines, so thankfully, I also love making my own coffee. Tamping the grounds, watching rich espresso pour, the whirl as you steam milk — it's a ritual for me. But I appreciate it's not for everyone, and if that sounds more like you, the Philips Series 5500 Fully Automated Espresso Machine does the hard work for you.

It's definitely an espresso machine for those who value convenience. The biggest drawback is that you lose the art of coffee-making with a fully automatic, bean-to-cup coffee machine. But on the flip side, with the Philips Series 5500 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine, you can have a wide range of drinks, hot or cold, at the push of a button.

And don't get me wrong, testing this machine was fun. It feels (and looks) very luxurious, and its slim profile means it's much easier to fit in your kitchen than some other models. It's just a less exciting coffee-making experience, but hey — that might not be super important to everyone. And for less than £700, it's super high-tech. Here are all of my thoughts while testing it.

First Impressions

First impressions were as good as they come. The Philips Series 5500 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine was sleek, slim, and stylish coming out of the box. I was actually surprised by how small it was (I previously tested the Jura Z10 Coffee Machine (also fully-automatic) and, at first, mistook it for a commercial machine, it was so big).

So, if you lack time and counter space, this machine could be the perfect option for you. Plus, the colorway and materials look luxurious. The appliance is glossy, silver, and the bulk of the machine is matte black. And, being mostly plastic, honestly, made it way easier to clean (but more on that later).

Aesthetically, I typically don't like the look of a milk canister that sits at the front, but here, it wasn't such a deal-breaker. It's not always attached (you use and remove as required), so I didn't notice it as much as I thought I would.

It doesn't come with many coffee machine accessories, but again, with a bean-to-cup machine, you really don't need them. Philips includes a fresh filter, a water testing strip, the milk canister, and an instruction guide. The rest is up for you to explore while testing.

Testing the Machine

This machine's tech makes it fun to use if nothing else. It comes with an instruction manual, but once you turn it on, you really don't need it. The appliance guides you through each step. It's very 'year-3000'.

After inserting the filter into the water tank, filling it with water, and putting beans in the hopper, it was time to brew. And boy, there are a lot of options to explore. The touchscreen has quick buttons for the more obvious coffee drinks (flat white, latte, etc.), but you can also scroll through a larger list.

One thing I noticed is that it's quite loud while brewing, so perhaps not a machine your neighbors will love, depending on how early your first coffee tends to be.

The espresso shots came out nicely on the first try with a smooth layer of crema. But what lets it down is the milk, which is one of the more typical downsides to bean-to-cup machines. It's warm and foamy, but nothing beats steaming your own milk. (If this is important to you, I'd recommend a semi-automatic machine like the Sage Barista Pro instead.)

That said, one of the biggest perks of the Philips Series 5500 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine is that it can also brew cold drinks. And yes, all at the press of a button.

Quality of Coffee

Overall, the coffee quality is good. It's certainly nowhere near cafe quality, but that's the compromise you make with the convenience of fully automated, bean-to-cup coffee machines — you don't have as much control over the process.

That said, you can most definitely enjoy a decent latte, espresso, or beyond from the Philips Series 5500 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine. It can even log your coffee preferences and customizations, like brew strength, temperature, and drink size. So, I can see the appeal for those seeking convenience. Plus, you can add syrups to enhance the flavor, much like how you'd make a Nespresso coffee taste better.

In terms of cleaning, it's worth noting that you cannot take the burrs out of the grinder to clean with a bean-to-cup machine. Darker roasts are typically more oily and can build up in the burrs, but if you switch between roasts, medium and lighter beans will actually act as cleaning agents for this, so keep an eye on it.

Should You Buy the Philips Series 5500 Fully Automatic Coffee Machine?

If you are after a sleek bean-to-cup machine, you can't go wrong investing in the Philips Series 5500 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine. It's slim, it's stylish, and it has so many different drink options. So, for someone tight on time (and counter space), this machine would be a worthwhile investment.

However, I wouldn't recommend this machine for people who want a more hands-on or technical coffee-making experience. Part of what I love about my morning coffee ritual is being part of the routine. For that, I'd recommend something like the Kitchenaid Semi-Automatic Machine or even the Rok Presso Smartshot Manual Coffee Machine.

Other Philips Coffee Accessories

Selecting the right espresso machine versus a coffee maker for your space is a highly personal process. It all depends on what you want from your coffee and your life schedule. If convenience is your priority, then the Philips Series 5500 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine is a fabulous choice.

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The prime outdoor entertaining season is basically upon us, and along with ensuring your space looks good for your guests — and for you, too — is ensuring it's functional and versatile, to make hosting easy and enjoyable for all. And if you're serious about outdoor entertaining, there is an equally serious outdoor oven that I've had the pleasure of testing that will elevate both your space and hosting game.

Gozney's Dome XL (Gen 2) pizza oven means business. As the biggest and most powerful outdoor pizza oven available from the design-led, premium pizza oven brand, Gozney, it's the larger of two new models in the Dome Gen 2 series — a reimagining of the original 2021 Dome pizza oven and "the purest expression of Gozney design," according to Gozney's founder and designer, Tom Gozney.

And it's the design of Gozney's pizza ovens that sets them apart — expertly crafted with sleek precision, the quality of the models is reflected in the quality of the pizzas they produce. Having made homemade pizzas with my husband for the last four years and having tested two other Gozney pizza ovens before this one, I was very interested to see how this big model — big in price as much as in size — would compare to my pizza-making experiences at home to date.

First Impressions

This outdoor pizza oven has serious wow-factor — even on arrival, from the meticulously well-presented packaging to the ease of set up, it's the real deal. And while it may look intimidating at first, its ease of use squashes any concerns, plus it makes you feel like even more of a pro when you're using it.

Now, it's a heavy oven — weighing 73kg — and requires a minimum of two people to set it up. But the Dome Gen 2 Series Stand, which you do have to purchase separately, is a game-changer, making it super easy to maneuver around your outdoor space for added flexibility.

The stand also comes equipped with foldable acacia wood side wings, which are ideal for placing tools or for prepping, and they easily fold away to save space when not in use. The stand also has pegs for cookware and room for two gas canisters underneath — plus, most importantly, it makes the pizza oven the perfect height for cooking.

Testing

I was actually very impressed by how easy this outdoor oven is to use. After attaching the gas pipe, it literally is a simple case of turning it on and pushing and twisting the ignition dial, just like you would on a gas hob, with the ability to control the intensity of Gozney's signature lateral rolling flame in the same way.

The display at the front of the oven shows both the ambient oven temperature (the larger reading) and the stone temperature, which you need to pay close attention to when making pizzas. And the battery is easily removable for charging (I haven't had to charge it yet; I just tested how easy it was to remove and replace).

Depending on the outside temperature and where you store the pizza oven, the time it takes to reach temperature will vary, but allow around 40 minutes, and I have to say, that is not long for an oven of this size. It's also worth noting that there is a progress panel on the display, which ensures you know exactly when the oven is ready to go, removing any guesswork — particularly handy when hosting.

It also cooks fast (60 seconds), so you need to keep your eyes on it and be quick with your turning. And because of this, I won't lie, my husband and I have only ever cooked one pizza at a time — the thought of trying to cook more than one pizza at the same time was a stressful thought to me, given how quickly the pizzas cook!

Plus, I also like having ample room to turn the pizzas during the quick-cooking time. However, for the seasoned pros out there, you can cook three 10" pizzas at the same time, or two 12" pizzas, or a super large 18" pizza. This makes it ideal for cooking for a big crowd, if you're an outdoor-dining aficionado.

The Dome XL (Gen 2) also holds its heat really well and is very responsive to the controls — more so than some of the other models I've tested. Ultimately, we cooked some of our tastiest pizzas in this outdoor pizza oven, with the classic, perfectly-crisp base and leoparding on the crust.

This outdoor oven is also designed for more than just pizza — the hybrid fuel model will help you create full-scale family feasts as an all-in-one outdoor kitchen, with the option to bake, roast, and cook multiple dishes at the same time. We tried the kiln-dried hardwood to cook some ribs at a low heat for several hours, and they were honestly delicious.

It was a little more fiddly, particularly when compared to using gas, and required constant checking, so this might not be the best option for when you're entertaining — unless you're happy for your guests to grab a perch close by. But the taste was worth the wait, and the meat probes were incredibly handy for ensuring the meat was properly cooked.

A small downside to the Bone colorway is that you do get discoloration above the opening after cooking, which, for the most part, can be wiped down after use, though some discoloration may remain. This is not noticeable with the Off Black colorway, though, which I have tested in another model, and I personally prefer the look even more in this darker hue.

But if the Bone hue is more to your taste, Gozney recommends Bar Keepers Friend Multi-Surface Cleaner, which is available on Amazon, for cleaning the oven's exterior after use.

Should You Buy Gozney's Dome XL (Gen 2) Pizza Oven?

An outdoor oven like this is not only very large, but it's also expensive, making it a serious investment that requires careful consideration. If you're a serious entertainer, have the budget to spend, and have a suitable-sized outdoor space, then the Dome XL (Gen 2) is worth the expense.

If, on the other hand, you have a small patio or balcony and are looking for something portable and budget-friendly to make pizzas every now and then, this is not the pizza oven for you. For that, I'd recommend Gozney's Arc Lite, which I also tested. Or there are some larger options out there that aren’t as large, including Gozney’s Arc, currently available at John Lewis, and Gozney’s Arc XL — it comes down to budget, space, and lifestyle.

You will also have to consider that the cost of the Dome XL Gen 2 does not include any accessories, so you also have to factor in the additional costs of the Cover (which is essential if you plan on leaving the pizza oven outside), the Stand, and the Balance Placement Peel, which do amount to a significant increase in cost — £639.97, to be exact.

At the end of the day, this is a premium, restaurant-grade oven, that elevates home-cooking outdoors to a whole new level. From its statement-making design that commands attention to the versatility of cooking options and ease of use, this is one impressive outdoor oven.

Stylish Gozney Pizza Oven Accessories

If you're still wondering, 'Is a pizza oven worth it?' Experts break it down so you can be fully informed in your decision-making.

If style is your sticking point, the Gozney x Tonester collaboration reimagines the Dome XL (Gen 2) Pizza Oven in a brand-new color, but only until stock sells out.

And for more ideas for your outdoor space and beyond, sign up for our newsletter, and all the latest will be delivered directly to your inbox.

Take it from me, as a small flat dweller with three coffee machines currently on my kitchen counter: espresso machines and teeny-tiny kitchens don't often go hand-in-hand. But, often, the best machines are also the biggest, so I was keen to put the Sage Bambino Plus to the test, as I'd heard good things about both its brew and 'bambino' size.

Having just tested another Sage coffee machine, I can vouch for the brand. But would this smaller machine still have all the same capabilities? Oftentimes, smaller coffee makers mean sacrificing features like built-in grinders or milk frothers, which can make them clunkier to use. This wasn't necessarily the case with the Bambino Plus, which was missing a grinder, but does have a smart milk frother (more on that later).

So, how does the Sage Bambino Plus stack up when compared to the best espresso machines on the market? Below, I've shared all my thoughts and opinions throughout the testing period.

First Impressions

The unboxing of the Sage Bambino Plus went as flawlessly as a coffee machine unboxing can go. Both Sage coffee machines I've tested were delivered quickly, and with all the necessary coffee machine accessories neatly tucked inside. This means you have everything you need to start using your machine right away — a portafilter and extra baskets, a water filter, a milk jug, cleaning supplies, an instruction manual, and more.

Once out of the box and on the counter, I was struck by how sleek this appliance was. It's small, but the build still feels sturdy and professional, and the chrome finish has that timeless kitchen appliance appeal. (That said, if you're after a color pop for your space, you might want to consider something like the De'Longhi Dedica Duo, which comes in my favorite matte sage green, instead.)

Testing the Machine

Having just tested the Sage Barista Pro (it's still on my counter), I was familiar with how Sage's products operate (not to mention I have tested my fair share of espresso machines), so I actually didn't even read the instructions. I cleaned the parts, soaked and inserted the water filter, turned it on, and began brewing. But don't worry, Sage provides a QR code video and instruction manual, too.

Unboxing and brewing the first espresso shot with the Sage Bambino Plus was a seamless, painless, and straightforward process. You can adjust the temperature for the espresso shot, opt for a single or double, and change the baskets from double to single-walled, depending on your grind type. For the size of the appliance, it really does have pretty much everything you need.

That said, this isn't a particularly advanced machine. There is no built-in grinder (you'll have to invest in a separate coffee grinder), and it did feel very limited function-wise. Once you've brewed your shot, that's it — it's only slightly more technical than a coffee pod machine. But hey, that might sound like a good thing to you; it's serendipitously simple.

Plus, I was pretty impressed with the milk steaming function. For how small this machine is, it really makes perfecting milk frothing techniques easy. There is also a smart sensor where you place the milk jug, and the machine will perfectly froth your milk on its own. You don't get this with most semi-automatic machines, especially of this size, so it is a nice touch.

One thing I will note is that the size (19.4 x 36.2 x 30.4 cm) means there is less weight on the machine, and I found that it can be a little unsteady when inserting and removing the portafilter. But that's nothing you won't easily get used to, though.

Quality of Coffee

But honestly, the most important question is: how does the coffee taste?

Full disclosure, this machine takes a few tries to get the espresso shots running smoothly. I think I pulled about three before I got a satisfying crema layer (but this isn't unusual for brand new machines).

A lot of that boils down to not being able to control the grind size and extraction rate like you can with machines like the Sage Barista Pro or the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic machine. However, if you have a quality coffee grinder like the Smeg Coffee Grinder or the top-of-the-line Fellow grinder, you'll probably pull better shots quicker.

Still, the quality of coffee was way better than a pod coffee. You get a bit more out of the coffee-making experience, too. Plus, the high-tech milk frothing function completely elevates the Sage Bambino Plus — I was really happy with the lattes I was able to pour.

Should You Buy the Sage Barista Pro Espresso Machine?

So the final question remains: is the Sage Bambino Plus coffee machine worth it?

If you don't have a lot of room on your kitchen counter for a coffee machine, I would say you can't go wrong investing in this machine. It provides the basics of a quality coffee with high-tech functions and a slim design. It gives you more ease than a manual machine and better quality than a pod appliance.

However, if you want to upgrade to something that offers a more hands-on coffee-making experience and that feels more luxurious, then it might be worth considering a larger, semi-automatic machine. Especially if you have the counterspace.

All in all, the Sage Bambino Plus packs a mighty punch for its size. I'd definitely recommend.

Other Sage Coffee Accessories

Finding the right appliance for your home cafe can be tricky — even tossing up between a coffee maker versus an espresso machine means diving into a whole world of coffee information.

But don't worry, I'm here to help. And signing up for the Livingetc newsletter means all the guidance you need, straight to your inbox.

I've been making homemade pizzas in pizza ovens with my husband for the past four years, and we are learning new things all the time. And not just in our efforts to make the tastiest pizza, but in deciphering what makes certain pizza ovens have the edge over others. Are they stylish? Are they easy to use? And do their features justify their price tag? So I was keen to find out how the newly-released Arc Lite Pizza Oven by Gozney fared — the compact extension to its Arc series, designed for smaller spaces.

If you're a pizza oven lover, you will likely be familiar with the Gozney brand, but if you're new to the world of homemade pizza-making, Gozney is one of the main contenders in premium, design-led pizza ovens, along with Ooni. And it was testing the Arc XL that first turned my head from the Ooni oven I'd owned for years. Gozney's signature lateral rolling flame is a game-changer for even cooking, and they're incredibly stylish ovens too.

But how would the most compact, lightweight model compare to Gozney's larger ovens? (I've also tested the Dome XL Gen 2.) Gozney's founder and CEO says, “It’s compact, powerful, and easy to use. You can place it on a balcony or take it to your mate’s, and it still kicks out the same flame and heat as our bigger ovens." And I would have to agree. Here's how testing went, from unboxing to tasting.

First Impressions

When I first unboxed the Arc Lite, I have to say I was instantly impressed. It looked really, really good. I loved the Bone color of the Arc XL I tested, and thought I would prefer it to this Off-Black colorway, but there's something about this hue that gives it an even sleeker look, particularly in the flesh (in my opinion).

And, as I found with other Gozney ovens, it was expertly packaged, with clear instructions — not that you need them, as it really is very easy to use. And, as it's designed to go from unboxing to professional-grade live fire in mere minutes, I can confirm that it does what it says on the tin.

With a fixed hose for a fast, tool-free setup, my husband and I were ready to get testing straight away.

Testing the Pizza Oven

We don't have a dedicated outdoor kitchen, so we simply set the pizza oven on top of our soon-to-be-replaced outdoor table, but any suitable surface would suffice (to accommodate its 43cm width and 48cm depth).

It was a cold day when we first tested the oven, but it only took 18 minutes to reach the recommended 450-degree cooking temperature, which I thought was pretty good. And it took probably closer to 90 seconds for our first pizza to be ready, and it tasted delicious.

We were impressed by the crisp, even pizza base, but we decided to reduce the cooking temperature to 425 for a slightly less crispy, but extremely tasty base. Like the Dome Gen 2, the Arc Lite retains heat well, arguably better than the Arc XL, which we found a bit more of a yo-yo process trying to get the temperature right, which also added time.

The dial control on the front of the oven makes for streamlined flame management, and you can cook flame-grilled steaks and vegetables whenever you don't fancy pizza, too.

Should You Buy Gozney's Arc Lite Pizza Oven?

If you're new to homemade pizza-making or have a small garden or balcony, the Arc Lite is an excellent choice. The compact, lightweight design makes it portable and easy to store — or even bring it with you on an outdoor adventure.

For larger outdoor spaces or for larger families, a bigger oven might be more suitable, with the capacity to cook 14" and 16" pizzas (or two 10" pizzas) — it really depends on your home, lifestyle, and preference.

But if you're looking for elevated homemade pizza-making from a premium brand at an affordable price point, that's compact, portable, and design-forward, Gozney's Arc Lite is hard to beat.

Helpful Gozney Pizza Accessories

If you're starting out on your homemade pizza-making journey, these are the pizza oven accessories I wouldn't be without.

It's also important to buy an Arc Lite Cover if you intend on leaving the oven outside — which we have done, in horrific weather, too, and it has worked an absolute treat in protecting the oven from the elements.

Want to make it prettier? The limited-edition Gozney x Tonester collaboration has reimagined the Arc Lite in a brand-new color, but only until stock sells out.

Still wondering: is a pizza oven worth it? You can see what the experts have to say about it — but, ultimately, if you often entertain, or like to spend time outdoors cooking food, and you and/or your family like pizza, it's worth it.

For more design-led shopping and style inspiration for your garden and beyond, sign up to the Livingetc newsletter, and all the latest will be delivered straight to your inbox.

If you're new here, I spend a lot of time with coffee machines. I currently have three in my kitchen that I am testing, and a couple more waiting in boxes. So, safe to say, I know a thing or two about what makes the best espresso machines. But, until recently, I'd never actually tried a Sage appliance. Obviously, that had to be rectified, so Sage's Barista Pro machine was up first.

Now, full disclosure: I am still not 100% sure on the exact difference between Sage and Breville across different markets (there are different brands with the same name), but what I do know is that they both make top-of-the-line coffee machines. The Barista Pro, in particular, I've heard, is easy to use, technically advanced, and makes great coffee.

So, did it live up to the reputation? Sage's Barista Pro is the epitome of a quality semi-automatic bean-to-cup espresso machine. There's a built-in grinder, customizable settings, a steaming wand, and its sleek design looks fabulous on your counter (that matters). But is it the coffee machine for you? Below are all of my thoughts and feelings while testing the Sage Barista Pro Coffee Machine.

First Impressions

My first impressions of the Sage Barista Pro machine smashed it out of the park. Upon opening the box, I found all the necessary coffee machine accessories, as well as a few clever extras, like cleaning supplies and Sage-only gadgets. We're off to a good start.

Plus, the machine is simply nice to look at — and if you are an interiors-obsessed person (which I assume you are if you're reading the Livingetc review), the way your coffee machine looks in your coffee nook matters. When my partner first saw the unboxed machine, he described it as "futuristic in a retro 50s way," and I completely agree; it's sleek and modern, but still feels timeless, which is what you want from an investment piece.

However, I did notice that it is slightly wider than similar espresso machines and coffee makers, such as the Kitchenaid Semi-Automatic machine (which also happens to be on my counter right now, so an easy comparison). So the amount of space you have is definitely something to consider here.

Testing the Machine

Admittedly, I do have some experience with using espresso machines, so my definition of easy may be slightly skewed. That said, the Sage Barista Pro was easy to use. It comes with an instruction guide (pictures only, though) and a QR code that takes you to an instructional video (which is much more helpful). You have to set up the typical things like the water tank and bean hopper, but after that, it's smooth sailing.

Truly, using this machine was so streamlined, simple, and it only took a couple of steps to get a cup of coffee. The most interesting element to me was that the grind size setting and extraction speed are adjustable, with a screen clearly displaying your setting choice. You don't get this often; I've only seen it on the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch. And Sage's instruction video is there to help you find the right setting for your preferences.

After that, and a push of a button, you're brewing your first espresso shot. And let me tell you, I was impressed. It's creamy crema layer after creamy crema layer with the Sage Barista Pro. No nonsense or tester shots here!

All that is left is a quick milk steam, and you can enjoy a fabulous latte at your home cafe. Milk steamers can be the trickiest part of learning to use a machine, and while this one has its challenges, I'd still rank it as one of the easier ones to use. The milk came out more consistently silky. So, if you value practicing your milk frothing techniques, then you'll be in good hands here.

Quality of Coffee

Every true coffee connoisseur knows that you can have all the flair in the world, but a good cup of coffee is all about the flavor. And after testing, I would confidently say that the Sage Barista Pro brews a tasty cup.

As mentioned, each shot came out with a nearly perfect crema layer, and there are multiple baskets you can swap into your portafilter to cater to the size shot you want and the beans you are using. Pressurized baskets are typically better for pre-ground or less fresh beans, while non-pressurized (or single-wall) baskets work great for machines like this one with integrated grinders, or if you have a coffee grinder already on your counter.

However, making your coffee machine work better and your coffee taste better means being selective about your beans. A good roast will do most of the work for you.

Should You Buy the Sage Barista Pro Espresso Machine?

So, is the Sage Barista Pro worth buying? My overall answer would definitely be yes. If streamlined style and a more professional and technical coffee-making experience are what you are after, then the Sage Barista Pro provides. It's for people who have some experience in the coffee-making world, but want to upgrade their game. It may not be the most artisanal, stylish design, but it's perfectly sleek and timeless.

However, you do need enough counter space for this machine. It's not too tall, but it's definitely slightly wider than similar models. And it's a semi-automatic machine, so it's just bigger than something like the De'Longhi Dedica Duo or a coffee pod machine.

Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with this appliance, and dare I say, it may take the cake for my favorite machine so far (I'm sorry, Smeg Cold Brew Machine, I still love you). So, if you are looking to invest in a new espresso machine, you can't go wrong with this one.

Other Sage Coffee Accessories

Finding the right coffee machine for your home is a journey, and you want to make sure you pick the right one. While I may have fallen for the Sage Barista Pro, is it the right one for your space?

I have plenty more coffee machine reviews where this one came from, so be sure to subscribe to the Livingetc newsletter to stay up-to-date on all things caffeine and coffee-related.

I received an email a couple of weeks ago about the launch of Jura's Z10 Coffee Machine, which is available at Harrods. I almost dismissed it as just another bean-to-cup machine, nothing we haven't seen before, but then I saw the £2,500 price tag, and a promise of 51 different coffee types and a sweet foam function at the touch of a button. Okay — could this really be worth that price?

Naturally, that meant I had to get my hands on it to test for myself. And let me tell you, when this machine was delivered to the office in a crate the size of a mini fridge, I thought I'd made a huge mistake. Did I accidentally request a commercial-grade coffee machine? However, a quick peek inside the box and I realized that it was just that the Swiss-made Jura Z10 Coffee Maker comes with so many barista-quality extras.

From the whirlwind delivery and high-end price tag to the allure of any kind of coffee you could possibly want at the press of a button, this appliance certainly doesn't feel like your typical espresso machine. But is it worth the hype? Below, I've shared my honest review and all my thoughts while testing it out.

First Impressions

Full disclosure, this machine is intimidating at first. The size of the crate that it came in alone signaled this was a serious coffee-making machine.

But once I opened the box and realized that the machine itself is only slightly bigger than your typical bean-to-cup machine (like the Kitchenaid Semi-Automatic machine), and that all that extra room was just for the high-tech supplies and coffee accessories it comes with. That said, this is a machine that you will need to read the instruction manual for and follow every step.

But despite its larger size and technical abilities, this machine looks surprisingly sleek on the counter (which is a very important consideration, if you ask me). The black colorway and silver accents will match almost any kitchen design scheme, and I love the unique fluting on the water tank.

Testing the Machine

Phew! Testing this machine was quite the beast. However, with a little patience, it's not as intimidating as it seems at first. The instruction guide is clear, and the advanced technology and touchscreen guide you through each step.

The first thing that impressed me was the water filtration system. As part of setting up the machine, you are required to test your tap's water hardness level (an alkaline strip is provided for this). Once you've tested that, you insert the smart filter, and the machine will calculate and filter your water accordingly, as well as remind you when it's time to replace it. I've never experienced this with any other machine, and it will surely make your coffee machine work better (and taste better!).

Next up, put the beans in the built-in grinder. Then fill the milk carafe, which can be stored in the fridge and easily connected to the machine via a tube when in use — no milk frothers or jugs required. It also comes with multiple milk attachments so you can separate tubes based on milk types, which is a nice touch.

There's no need to worry about milk frothing techniques; this machine offers over 50 coffee brewing options using a variety of milk-based drinks to choose from, all as simple as pressing a button. It's a very automated process.

And if you like syrups in your coffee, you're in luck. The machine came with a bottle, and I quickly learned that there is a special syrup (or chocolate) attachment that lets you brew sweet foams. It's easy to fill and connect, and the milk runs through it, so it's evenly and smoothly mixed into the beverage. This was magic.

Lastly, any fans of cold brew will be pleased to hear that the Jura Z10 Coffee Machine also brews delicious iced coffee. Honestly, I got a bit buzzed testing this machine — there were so many options at the touch of a button, and it was all so easy once you got over the initial hurdle of setting it up.

Quality of Coffee

So, what does the coffee actually taste like? As a former barista, I'll admit I'm often hesitant about fully automated coffee machines. I like to have some level of control over the brew, and admittedly, with this machine, you have very little. But I was quite impressed.

The machine lets you know how strong each coffee type will be based on the style you select. From there, it's a lot about the beans you choose to use. Jura roasts its own beans, and I tested the Malabar Monsooned Pure Origin Beans and the Impressa Blend Beans (both came with the machine).

Usually, I find that fully automated machines fall short when it comes to frothing milk, but that wasn't necessarily the case here. Sure, it wasn't perfectly silky milk, but it wasn't disappointing by any means. My cappuccino had the right amount of foam.

Should You Buy the Jura Z10 Coffee Machine?

The big question: is the Jura Z10 Coffee Machine really worth £2,500? And, if it is, is it actually a worthwhile investment?

Look, I know it's a lot, but if you have the means, I absolutely think it's worth it. I had so much fun testing this one, and was continually surprised by the level of detail — both in the design and technical features. It would feel like having a luxury hotel lobby coffee machine in your own home, and you could easily never have to buy coffee from a cafe again.

To contextualize it, I did a little maths. If you're someone who usually gets on average two £4 coffees a day, you'll spend roughly £2,920 on coffee from cafes per year. Throw in a special milk or syrup, and it's probably more. So, if you substituted all that for the £2,500 Jura Z10 Coffee Machine, well... it starts to make a lot more sense.

This machine is a far cry from even your best everyday espresso maker, like Breville's Barista Sense Espresso Machine (which I also love). It's technically advanced, fully automated, and even has Roger Federer's tick of approval (he's the brand ambassador).

That said, if you prefer someone a little more hands-on, I still highly, highly recommend Smeg's Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine and Cold Brew Maker. Couple that with the grinder, and it'll let you connect a little more with the coffee-making experience, which I know some people love.

Other Jura Coffee Accessories

After initially thinking I might have ordered an ugly, clunky, commercial-grade machine, I left this testing experience incredibly impressed with the Jura Z10 Coffee Machine. It's a level of luxury worth saving up for.

If you're interested in all things coffee, it's worth subscribing to Livingetc's newsletter, because I regularly cover everything from machine reviews to cool new accessories, and how to make your brew taste better.

When you consider soundbars, certain brands will likely spring to mind. Sonos, Samsung, and Sony are all renowned in this space, just as JBL and Bose are for Bluetooth speakers. But while rock and roll royalty Marshall needs little introduction when it comes to amplifiers, having been the backbone of live music for decades, it is lesser known in the soundbar world. That was, at least, until the company announced its first spatial audio soundbar, the Heston 120 last year.

The Heston 120 has earned itself a solid reputation since it launched, and Marshall has now taken the lessons learned and channelled them into something more accessible. The Heston 60 is smaller, more affordable, and designed to slip neatly into living rooms that the 120 might have overwhelmed. The question is whether size really does matter or if this compact and distinctive soundbar can take on the likes of the Sonos Beam Gen 2 and its rivals.

First Impressions

You only need to take one look at the Heston 60 and one thing is immediately clear: it looks significantly better than many traditional soundbars. There are some lovely design details that make it stand out for all the right reasons, from the woven grille to the gold controls.

A soundbar's main job is to make your TV audio better, but no one wants an eye-sore taking centre stage in their living room or bedroom, and the Heston 60 makes sure that isn't the case. You'll want it on display. I had the black option in for review, but if you really want a soundbar that stands out from the pack, consider the cream colourway.

Both beautifully translate Marshall's signature aesthetic into soundbar form. The Heston 60 feels considered in a way that many rivals, stuck firmly in black rectangle territory, simply don't.

Features

Under its handsome exterior is a thoughtfully engineered speaker system delivering 5.1-channel sound: three 32mm full-range drivers fire forwards in a left/center/right configuration, with two more facing sideways at each end, passing through waveguides designed to achieve a convincing sensation of width and surround sound.

Finishing things off are two 76mm woofers, reinforced by four balanced mode radiators arranged in opposing pairs to minimize unwanted vibration. Marshall claims the total peak power output is 56 watts, while the frequency response runs from 45Hz to 20kHz.

Connectivity is pretty much covered at all bases, too. There’s no HDMI passthrough for connecting multiple devices, but you will find an HDMI 2.1 eARC port, along with USB-C and a 3.5mm analogue input. There’s also an RCA pre-out for a separate subwoofer, though if you opt for Marshall's own Heston Sub 200, you can also connect it wirelessly.

Speaking of wireless, you’ll find Wi-Fi 6, enabling features like Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, and internet radio, while Bluetooth 5.3 handles everything else. The Heston 60 is also fully compatible with both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, while control is handled primarily via the Marshall app. There is no physical remote included in the box, so that’s something to keep in mind.

Style

If you've read this review from the top, you'll probably think I am starting to sound like a broken record (excuse the pun), but the Heston 60 really is one of the most attractive soundbars out there. The cream colorway will warm up a living room in a way that a matte-black bar never could, but I have a lot of love for the black finish, too.

The gold buttons and accents add character and give the Heston 60 a premium feel, while the crocodile-effect rubber on the edges and back adds texture and provides a little extra design detail to draw your attention.

The Heston 60 has a trick up its sleeve when it comes to the Marshall badge and metal control surround, too. Both are magnetic, allowing them to be repositioned depending on whether you place this soundbar flat on the surface under your TV, or wall-mount it on your TV wall.

An internal gyroscope automatically detects orientation and adjusts the sound output accordingly, so no manual configuration is required when switching between the two positions. It's a small detail, but one that reflects the attention Marshall has given to how people actually use this kind of product.

At 68 x 730 x 124mm, the Heston 60 is lovely and compact, though larger and a little more substantial than the Sonos Beam Gen 2. High-end soundbars have a habit of looking oversized beneath anything smaller than a 65-inch TV, but the Heston 60 is well-proportioned alongside a 48-inch or 55-inch screen – it's smaller than both but not uncomfortably so.

Sound Quality

The Heston 60 isn't all form and no function, though. Fire up a Dolby Atmos film or album, and you'll immediately understand what I mean. Its soundstage is considerably wider and more enveloping than its physical dimensions would suggest, with sound filling the room with ease and effects nice and precise.

Dialogue is handled with confidence, too. Voices are clear and centred, even when a soundtrack surrounds them. This can make a real difference in your viewing experience, and it's also something some rivals struggle to maintain. Tonality throughout the frequency range is natural and consistent, with plenty of detail in the midrange and above.

At the low end, the Heston 60 digs deeper and hits harder than its modest size implies. Bass is solid and controlled, transients land cleanly, and timing is tight, from sustained rumbles to sudden bangs. In some material, low-end information can seem slightly cordoned off from the rest of the frequency range, while higher frequencies can occasionally be a little harsh if you crank the volume up too much, but neither is a glaring flaw.

The one area where expectations need to be tempered is stereo music. Like many multi-driver spatial audio soundbars, the Heston 60 applies its full architecture to two-channel content, and the results are less impressive than its excellent performance with spatial audio material.

Ease of Use

Day-to-day operations are handled primarily through the Marshall app, available on iOS and Android. It's a clean, well-designed, and well-organized app, offering a five-band EQ and the ability to save custom presets so you can tune the Heston 60 to your liking. That said, the app can be sluggish at times — it can take a couple of seconds to find connected devices, and there’s currently no surround options in Marshall’s range – an area where Sonos takes the win.

The app allows for configuration of wall-mount or surface positioning, however, along with wireless subwoofer pairing, audio delay adjustment, and internet radio access.

On the Heston 60 itself, five small tactile buttons deal with input selection, play/pause, volume, and 'sound', the latter of which cycles through four preset EQ modes: Music, Movie, Night, and Voice. Only one mode can be active at a time, though, so you can’t combine Movie mode with Voice mode, for example. On Sonos, meanwhile, you can turn on night mode while also boosting dialogue.

It's a limitation worth being aware of, though the app's five-band EQ gives you the scope to build your own custom solution. The fifth button is a 'Prog' button, which can be assigned to a saved Spotify playlist or radio station – a thoughtful touch for those who like a quick-start option.

As I mentioned, there is no physical remote in the box, so the app will be your main means of control from the sofa unless you're relying on your TV remote for volume. It’s not a huge issue, but some may prefer to put their phone down when watching TV, and you can’t do that here unless you’re happy to use the on-device controls instead.

Extras

Beyond the audio performance, the Heston 60 has several noteworthy elements. Its sustainable credentials are excellent: around 75 per cent of the plastic used in its construction comes from recycled materials, there is no PVC in sight, and the grille, end caps, drivers, and circuit boards are all designed to be repairable and replaceable, which is far from standard in this field.

The magnetic design accents that allow the branding and controls to be repositioned for both orientations deserve another nod here, too, just in case you missed it when I mentioned it above. Lastly, the wall-mounting bracket is included in the box, which, like the sustainability credentials, is not common.

Is the Marshall Heston 60 worth it?

At £499, the Heston 60 sits in competitive territory, but it earns its place there. It delivers spatial audio that sounds bigger and more involved than anything else this size and price, it's built with care, and it's distinctive in a category where visual anonymity is the norm.

Yes, stereo music isn't at its finest, and the occasional sharpness in the high frequencies is worth noting. The absence of a physical remote and HDMI passthrough will matter to some buyers, too, and the inability to layer sound modes is a shame. But for a compact, characterful soundbar that takes Dolby Atmos seriously and won't look like an afterthought beneath your TV, the Heston 60 is an excellent choice.

When Pottery Barn landed in the UK late last year, I was, of course, excited about the massive sofas, the faux flowers (seriously, go check them out), the cushions, the lamps, and the vases (among other things) — but I quickly learned about another of the brand's best-sellers: its bedding.

Considering Livingetc has made it our mission to discover all the best places to buy bedding, I took one for the team and offered to try Pottery Barn's Belgian Linen Flax Duvet Cover (I know, what a martyr). Now, why the linen, you ask? Well, full disclosure: I used to work for a linen brand, so I have strong feelings about the natural fiber, and felt I was best suited to put Pottery Barn's to the test.

So, how did it stack up? Linen bedding can be a divisive subject. Some love its relaxed, crumpled aesthetic and subtle textured feel. Others despise it. Thankfully, Pottery Barn's linen arrived much softer than others I've slept in. The fabric often requires a 'break-in' period and a certain number of washes before it starts to soften (this one didn't), and the general rule is that it will continue to soften with every wash after that. So, safe to say, it was a good start. Find out how it fared and all my thoughts below.

Is Pottery Barn's Linen Bedding Good Quality?

There is a lot you can garner about good-quality bedding the second you pull it out of its packaging (and well before you get underneath it). The first, of course, is a touch test — the softness of the fibers is important, as you'll soon be getting very up close and personal with it.

Pottery Barn's Belgian Flax Linen Duvet Cover felt good; slightly brushed thanks to the pre-wash it gets (more on that later), which gave it instant softness. Inspecting the inner seams, things all looked neat and tidy, and I discovered it had internal ties in each corner to help secure your duvet in place; a big tick in my books.

Along the bottom edge, it's got a row of buttons, which have been cleverly concealed within the seam. It's also made from 100% Belgian flax, which is where you want linen bedding to be from. So, in terms of first impressions, I'm impressed.

How Is Pottery Barn's Linen Bedding to Sleep In?

As I mentioned, Pottery Barn's Belgian Flax Linen Duvet Cover felt soft straight out of the box. Why is that significant? Well, at the beginning, linen is an incredibly coarse fabric, which is why it has traditionally been able to be handed down through generations, getting softer with each and every wash as the fibers slowly break down.

These days, brands 'prewash' linen bedding to speed up this aging process (sometimes as much as 50 years), so that it's super soft as soon as you get it. While it means linen bedding typically doesn't last a lifetime anymore (you can still expect to get a good few years out of it, just like other bedding), it does mean it's comfortable to sleep in straight away. A worthwhile trade-off, if you ask me.

One of the reasons why linen bedding is so popular where I grew up (in Australia) is that it's good in all climates and for both hot and cool sleepers. This is thanks to the natural thermoregulating and moisture-wicking properties of its hollow fibers, which let heat escape when it's hot and trap warmth when it's cold. Pottery Barn's linen bedding lived up to this, as the most comfortable set I've got on rotation right now — and it didn't even take a few washes to 'break-in'.

How Easy Is Pottery Barn's Linen Bedding to Care For?

One of the biggest downsides to this bedding set (but it's the case for every linen bedding set I've ever owned) is that the fabric tends to shed slightly when you wash it. This goes part-and-parcel with it getting softer with each wash, though.

I made this mistake of washing my new linen duvet cover with a white sheet, which ended up with dark lint all over it, but that's my bad. The Pottery Barn website recommends machine washing separately, and in cold water on a gentle cycle.

Then there is the look of linen. After washing, it will naturally dry quite crumpled, and unless you're into that 'relaxed' aesthetic (I am), you'll have to iron it. For that, Pottery Barn recommends a warm iron.

How Does Pottery Barn's Linen Bedding Rank on Style?

As I previously mentioned, when air-dried, Pottery Barn's linen bedding will look softly crumpled, but in terms of style, I quite like the 'artfully undone' look (it's a big bedding trend for 2026, too).

Color-wise, this specific set comes in nine different solid colors — including Café Noir, Chambray, Brick, and Loden — which all have a nice 'washed' finish that adds to the soft look. The brand also flags that "Color variations are inherent to natural fibers, and slight variations may occur to what is shown online for our Flax colour option," so that's worth keeping in mind, though variations will be barely noticeable.

Pottery Barn also has other linen bedding in its range that you could layer up on your bed, including a Belgian Flax Linen Diamond Quilt, Belgian Flax Linen Fringe Ruffle Pillowcases, and Belgian Flax Linen Floral Stitch Pillowcases.

Is Pottery Barn's Linen Bedding Worth It?

So, the big question. Is Pottery Barn's Belgian Linen Flax Duvet Cover worth it? I have certainly enjoyed it, that's for sure. So, perhaps the bigger question is, how does it compare to similar linen bedding on the market?

Pottery Barn, interestingly, offers only two sizes in its duvet covers: Double/King and Super King. I guess that's because you can (in fact, I recommend) sizing up to a King cover for a double bed, so the duvet drapes nicely over the edge.

So, comparing King-sized 100% linen duvet covers, something similar will usually cost £200 at Bed Threads (currently £170), and £209 at Piglet in Bed (currently £167). Piglet in Bed also has a Linen Blend option that's even cheaper. Pottery Barn's linen bedding is, therefore, on the slightly more expensive side, but I still think it's a worthwhile investment if you're considering it.

Despite my ever-growing appreciation for fancy espresso machines (I've tested over 10 now), the American in me will always love the simplicity of drip coffee. For me, it's synonymous with slow weekend mornings and the smell of coffee drifting through the house. However, they are not always the sexiest of appliances... in fact, they can often be quite bland. But then I found Fellow's Aiden Precision Drip Coffee Maker.

Its monotone, linear, almost monolithic form is undeniably chic. But how does it stack up when compared to other drip coffee makers on the market? San Francisco-born brand Fellow has a name in the coffee world (it's harder, but not hard to find in the UK — it's also stocked at the likes of Selfridges, but for £299, it's certainly on the higher end of the market.

Spoiler: It definitely impressed. If you're searching for an appliance that will look good on your kitchen counter and will make a tasty slow drip pot, read on for everything I thought and felt when trialling Fellow's Aiden Precision Drip Coffee Maker.

First Impressions

After drooling over the design online for months, I can gladly say that the Fellow Aiden Precision Drip Coffee Maker was just as impressive during my first in-person interaction. Even the packaging has an easy-to-lift handle to help get the machine out of the box.

Once the machine is out on the counter, it's hard not to stare. (Literally, the whole Livingetc team gathered around to admire its streamlined style.) Though it has a very high-tech, industrial design, it also feels fashionable, meaning your kitchen design doesn't have to be modern or minimal for this appliance to feel harmonious.

It gives those slow mornings a stylish upgrade. And if you live in the US, you can get this machine in three stylish new colorways (Sesame, Malted Chocolate, and Woodlands Green). It's safe to say I was swept off my feet during the unboxing process, so now it's time to put it to the test.

Testing the Machine

When using a drip coffee maker, you'll need ground coffee to start. You can either buy it as is, or if you're serious about coffee, I'd recommend investing in a quality coffee grinder. Fellow's own Opus Conical Coffee Grinder (available on Amazon) is highly rated, but I've also tried (and loved) Smeg's Coffee Grinder.

Once you have your coffee sorted and the water tank filled, using this machine is as easy as it gets — I didn't even open the instruction manual. Once you press the button at the bottom left-hand corner of the machine, the screen at the top guides you through machine set-up and the different coffee-making steps. It's one of those appliances that you can feel comfortable with, even if you have never used an espresso machine or coffee maker before.

You can choose instant brewing or a guided brew, and each produces good coffee; the latter just lets you play with the settings more, while the former is a smart tech, touch-and-go setting. Plus, you can select how big a pot you want to brew, depending on how many people will be sharing the pot (but hey, no judgment here if you're having all six cups).

But the real fun comes with its AI coffee machine tech. For instance, you can download the Fellow app to schedule the Aiden to start as you wake up, set brew times for the entire week, and create coffee profiles. While drip coffee is simple, this machine is certainly not.

Quality of Coffee

The quality of coffee is, of course, the most important part (even though I tend to be swayed by the design). No one wants to spend too much time figuring out how to make their coffee machine work better. So, how did the Aiden Precision Drip Coffee Maker hold up?

As far as drip coffee goes, this machine was indeed impressive. You can try a light, medium, or dark roast. To start, I tried the medium roast setting. The flavor was robust, the coffee dark, and a delicious cup of joe was had (no milk needed).

That said, I tried the guided brew setting and selected a five-and-a-half-cup brew, and I felt the pot wasn't as large as I had imagined (maybe that says more about me, though). However, after testing different settings, you'll quickly be able to find the mode that suits your preferences best. All in all, I would highly recommend this coffee maker.

Should You Buy the Fellow Aiden Precision Coffee Maker?

As you can probably guess, my verdict is that yes, the Fellow Aiden Precision Drip Coffee Maker is worth the investment. Especially if you like drip coffee. And what makes drip coffee so likable? It is really rewarding to tune into different flavor profiles and find beans that are roasted specially for slow drip makers. It opens a whole new world of coffee.

All that said, if you love lattes or any milk-based coffee, then this isn't the machine for you. Drip coffee is best served black.

With this machine, you can expect an aromatic pot of coffee that will stay warm in the thermal pot throughout your morning. In that sense, it's great for those who work from home or enjoy slow weekend mornings filled with multiple cups of sip-able coffee.

Other Fellow Coffee Accessories

The Fellow Aiden Precision Drip Coffee Maker is the drip coffee machine of drip coffee dreams. It brings you back to the basics of coffee-making in style and with a little more tech. However, for a more hands-on experience, I'd recommend the ROK Presso Smartshot manual coffee maker.

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One thing to know about me is that I love coffee in all its forms: black coffee, lattes, espresso shots, you name it. So, the idea of a portable, manual coffee maker (without all the bells and whistles) is far from a turn-off to me. In fact, I've always seen an AeroPress sitting on the shelves of the best coffee cafes in London, so you know I jumped at the chance to finally test it out for myself.

The AeroPress coffee maker is about the size of a pint glass when standing upright and — thanks to its predominantly plastic (though very high-quality) construction — weighs virtually nothing. Well... eight ounces if we're getting technical. This makes it the perfect coffee maker for those who prioritize convenience. It's a manual coffee maker that operates similarly to a French press — both devices use immersion brewing and a plunger — but the AeroPress capitalizes on a filter system and a unique combination of brew methods, which result in a true-to-its-own-flavor, rich, espresso-like pour.

So, the big question: could this super affordable, low-tech coffee maker beat the flavor produced by my beloved espresso machines? With over 65,00 five-star reviews across more than 60 countries, I have to say, it does. Below are all my thoughts and opinions while testing the AeroPress coffee maker.

First Impressions

I had high expectations of the AeroPress coffee maker (available at Amazon). Livingetc's interiors editor Emma Breislin says her partner (a former barista) uses it every single day. In fact, it was actually his AeroPress I tested, because it's just so easy to chuck in your bag and bring to the office.

And now, I can confidently say, it passed the initial impression test with flying colors. That said, there's not a lot to take in — it's pretty compact with a simple, streamlined design, though you can get prettier, colorful options (like this clear pink AeroPress on Amazon).

It's worth noting that it comes with all the coffee machine accessories you need to get it up and brewing: a set of micro filters (which you can also restock on Amazon), a stirrer, and a scoop and filter cap. You will need to either buy or grind your own beans, though.

Testing the Machine

I figured the biggest selling point with this coffee maker was going to be how easy it was to use, so that was what I really focused on while testing it. And while I'm a fan of manual coffee machines (the ROK Presso Smartshot was probably my favorite last year), I know that if it's going to have fewer frills, it needs to be really, really easy to use.

I watched a quick YouTube tutorial to see how it worked, and safe to say, it was a pretty simple process. To start, place a microfilter in the lid and damp it slightly with warm water (this prevents any paper-y tastes that may occur).

Next, fill the top with a hefty scoop of ground coffee, then fill with as much water as you please (there are lines to indicate the different water level options), stir, then place the plunger on top, and press down until you hear a hissing sound. It's as easy as that.

I did have a few hiccups to start. Firstly, I had the machine upside down... then, I realized I hadn't put enough water in the top, but the learning curve was quick and far from disastrous. Pro tip: let the coffee steep for a minute or two after you pour the hot water over the grinds, and before you press.

This is a machine that thrives on simplicity, so you'll more than likely need to invest in a few other accessories depending on how you take it. A coffee grinder is required (or you could buy ground coffee, but that's never as good), and perhaps a milk frother if you prefer milk-based coffee.

Quality of Coffee

So, it's easy to make, but what's the coffee like, you ask? Once I'd worked it out, every cup I made got a 10/10. This is definitely a machine for the drip coffee and Americano lovers. The AeroPress brews coffee that is rich, smooth, and strong. There was virtually no harsh acidity or bitterness, but you could also pour a bit of extra hot water and milk for a longer drink.

To put it on a scale, I'd say there's a more advanced flavor profile than most coffee pod machines, but not quite as cafe-level as something like KitchenAid's Semi-Automatic Coffee Machine. If you like a strong, black coffee, I doubt you'd be disappointed with AeroPress. If you're more into milk-based coffee, maybe less so.

Should You Buy the Aeropress Machine?

The AeroPress is a fabulous coffee maker if you are someone who lives on the go, but enjoys a decent cup of coffee above most else. While this is by no means a luxury espresso machine or coffee maker, it is still a device that is for the true coffee connoisseur. The brewing methods are advanced, and the quality of flavor is exceptional — meaning don't take simplicity for lack of value.

Its portability is probably the biggest perk, so I'd definitely say this is one for the busy body. It could be taken camping, traveling, or even to the office (I spotted someone else using an AeroPress at the office while I was testing my own!)

All in all, I left this review thoroughly impressed with the AeroPress coffee machine. It's small but mighty, and for just shy of £40 (it also regularly goes on sale), what's not to love? Plus, I've since discovered a few attachments you can buy to elevate it even more.

There is a lot of ways to do single serve coffee, but I'm now convinced that AeroPress just might be the best.

I may be a dedicated espresso machine lover, but recently my head has been turned. I can no longer stand idle while pod machines are slandered, because they can, in fact, make a very decent cup of coffee. This week I tried the Nespresso Vertuo Next machine and my new-found love for a pod coffee was yet again confirmed. This is a device that prioritizes convenience and affordability without sacrificing flavor. And what's so bad about that?

Coffee pod machines, of course, aren't going to give you that barista-like coffee-making experience — there is no group head, portafilter, and typically no steaming wand. However, a thick crema layer and a range of drink choices in less than two minutes? That, they can do. The Nespresso Vertuo Next machine specifically utilizes Nespresso's advanced extraction technology, which I found elevated the crema and espresso shot quality.

In terms of what this machine can do, the Vertuo Next is pretty limited to what pods you buy to use. But if you're someone with a busy morning schedule who still wants to enjoy a hot drink at home, I'd highly recommend considering this appliance. More details on my reviewing experience and opinions on the Nespresso Vertuo Next machine, below.

First Impressions

First impression were a 'meets expectations' moment. This is not a negative notion, as the machine has a sleek, stylish design, but more so that what you see is what you get. It comes with the machine, the instruction manual and nothing more. So, you will have to factor in pods, milk-steaming devices, etc., as an extra cost. Luckily, Nespresso has a wide range of coffee pod options to shop.

This simplicity also works in favor of learning to use the appliance. This couldn't be an easier machine to use. All you do is plug the machine in, fill the water tank, pop a coffee pod in, and press start.

Plus, without a mess of extra bits and bobs, this machine won't take up too much room on your kitchen countertop. The Vertuo Next may not be as small as similar models like the Nespresso Vertuo Pop machine, but it's still great for smaller coffee nooks and counters.

Testing the Machine

As mentioned, using this machine is as simple as it gets. It's a two-step process to a creamy and smooth caffeinated drink. To start, I ordered a variety pod pack that included espresso shots, full drink sizes, and cold drink options (all in varying intensity levels). This allows you to have the most creative freedom over what kind of drink you want to help brighten your dark mornings.

To use the Vertuo Next, you simply place the pod into the top, lock it in place, and press the brewing button to start. One thing to note is that the top can be a little tricky to close. It's nothing too inconvenient; it just takes a firmer press to pop the pod and get the lid to lock.

My favorite feature? When your cup has brewed, and you reopen the top of the machine, the used coffee pod automatically discards into a bin at the back of the machine that you can empty once full. It makes disposing of your pods that much easier. But to keep the environment in mind, you might want to consider getting a tool like the Alessi pod crusher to separate the grounds from the aluminum before recycling.

Quality of Coffee

Now the most important question — what's the coffee quality? Again, I've been thoroughly impressed recently by the advancements in coffee pod flavor, and the Nespresso Vertuo Next did not disappoint.

As soon as the espresso shot begins brewing, you can see the caramel-colored crema coming out of the machine. However, I'd say I was slightly less impressed with the full-cup-sized pods. While it's convenient (especially if you're an americano lover), there tends to be a lot of foam after brewing.

The coffee is inarguably tasty, but you might still need to consider buying certain coffee machine accessories and accompaniments to make your Nespresso pods taste better.

Should You Buy the Nespresso Vertuo Next Machine?

If you are ready to invest in a pod machine, I'd definitely recommend this machine. It looks stylish on the counter, doesn't take up too much space, comes in a range of colors, and is easy to use. Plus, yes, the coffee tastes great.

The main difference between the Nespresso Vertuo Next machine and the brand's other simplistic models is the size and style of this device. The Vertuo Next has a larger water tank, a taller, slimmer build, and comes in four sleek colors (dark and light gray, black, and white).

The Nespresso Vertuo Next is for the busy coffee lover — someone who values variety, convenience, and affordability.

Looking for something that is similar in price range but a little more hands-on? I'd suggest trying the De'Longhi Dedica Duo. It is a traditional espresso machine (steaming wand included) with a size that's built for apartments and smaller spaces.

I'll be the first to admit that testing top-of-the-line espresso makers and coffee machines has made me a bit of a snob. As such, I tend to turn my nose up at pod machines. But after testing Nespresso's Vertuo Pop machine for the last few weeks, I have to say I was genuinely taken aback by the quality of the coffee it produces.

Where I once believed coffee pod machines to be all about convenience and affordability, I now know you don't have to sacrifice the more luxurious elements, like flavor and crema. Nepresso's Vertuo Pop machine delivered an espresso shot (or whole cup of coffee, depending on the setting) with a thick crema layer at the push of a button. Every. Single. Time. There's plenty of flavor, no experience needed, and the slim design takes up very little room on your kitchen countertop, perfect for apartment-dwellers (or people like me who currently have five machines they're testing out).

Of course, you lose a bit of the magic that comes from the more manual espresso-making process. There are no beans to grind or milk to steam, but these are sacrifices worth considering if you value convenience and affordability. Sounds like this could be the machine for you? Here's everything you need to know about Nespresso's Vertuo Pop machine, and all the thoughts I had while reviewing it.

First Impressions

First impressions are about what you would expect for this machine, as in, what you see is what you get. There are no extra coffee accessories that come with Nespresso's Vertuo Pop machine — unboxing the machine is as simple as pulling it out of its box, plugging it in, pressing a button, and getting a coffee.

But don't confuse that with me suggesting this simplicity is a bad thing. Quite the opposite, actually. After months of faffing with high-tech espresso machines with lots of different parts and specific requirements to make the coffee machine work better, there was something so nice about not even having to open the instruction manual to know what to do.

It's worth noting, though, that Nespresso's new Vertuo line doesn't work with the original, smaller Nespresso pods. The Vertuo pods are larger and use a completely different technology from the original version, and are only available to buy from Nespresso. So, be sure to stock up on Vertuo pods before you begin.

Testing the Machine

If you've used a pod or Nespresso machine before, then the Nespresso Vertuo Pop machine will be a breeze. Genuinely, I didn't even open the instruction manual; it was that easy. Wash out the water tank, give the machine a flush, fill the tank with clean (ideally filtered) water, pop your pod in, and press start. If you do get lost, there is also a guide with QR codes to YouTube explainer videos.

One thing to note is that when running, the machine is slightly louder than I expected. The Vertuo pods operate by spinning, and that process, combined with heating the water, can generate a lot of noise (even for such a small machine).

This also isn't the machine to go for if you are a true coffee connoisseur who loves all the flourishes. For lattes or to practice your milk frothing techniques, you'll have to invest in a separate milk frother (I'd recommend the Nespresso Aeroccino 3 Milk Frother) or a hand-held milk frother, like this £15 option by Bonsenkitchen from Amazon.

After you're done brewing your espresso or cup of coffee, open the machine, and the used pod automatically discharges into a bin at the back of the machine that you can empty once full (use this Alessi Capsule Crusher when it's time to discard). As I said, when it comes to conveniences, this machine gets 5 stars.

Quality of Coffee

As mentioned, Nespresso's Vertuo machines use an upgraded brewing technology, so you'll notice that the head of the machine is larger and rounded compared to other, older Nespresso machines, like the Original CitiZ machine.

This technology is what allows for that upgraded flavor and coffee quality. Plus, you can choose from a variety of pod sizes that cater to everything from a single espresso shot to a full 250ml mug of coffee. Nespresso offers flavors with different intensity levels and flavor profiles as well, so you can really go deep (if you want to).

So, while opting for a pod machine might seem like you're limiting yourself in terms of coffee variety, Nespresso actually makes versatility really easy.

Should You Buy the Nespresso Vertuo Pop Machine?

All in all, as a starter-level coffee pod machine, Nespresso's Vertuo Pop is a great option for quality coffee with minimal effort.

This machine definitely caters to people with less space on their kitchen counters, as the size can easily slide into an empty corner or fit within a cabinet if that is the space you have carved out for your coffee bar ideas. The Vertuo Pop is also ideal for anyone wanting to streamline their morning routine. It really couldn't get any simpler to use.

That said, if you are a more experienced barista or are looking to upgrade your morning routine, you might want to look at a more hands-on appliance. I'd recommend something like the Kitchenaid Semi-Automatic machine or the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch in this case.

So there you have it, Nespresso's Vertuo Pop may have just made a coffee pod machine convert out of me. And if you're curious but don't want to sacrifice your morning lattes, you're in luck — the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista has an attached milk steaming wand (and may look even more stylish on your counter).

In the world of coffee, there are your run-of-the-mill espresso machines (the ones at an affordable price that elevate the basics of espresso making), and then there are espresso machines. The latter is a variety that feels elevated beyond compare — a slice of true Italian coffee traditions mixed with professional-level brewing. And when it comes to this genre, Milan-based espresso machine brand La Pavoni (owned by the more recognizable Smeg label) is the trailblazer.

Naturally, and as a self-prescribed coffee connoisseur, I've been dying to try my hand at brewing a cup of coffee on a La Pavoni machine for some time now. Luckily, the brand's Regent Street store in London was there to answer my prayers. I recently spent the day with the team testing out the La Pavoni Mini Cellini Semi-Professional Domestic Coffee Machine — and wowee, it impressed.

Now, if you're even vaguely familiar with the Italian brand (you may have even seen its iconic lever machines in a James Bond movie or two), then you'll know that they tend to come with a much higher price tag than other espresso machine alternatives. However, what you are paying for is an appliance that promises a lifetime of excellent espresso. How do I know? Below are the thoughts, feelings, and opinions I made while testing the La Pavoni Mini Cellini machine for myself.

First Impressions

While I often have espresso machines sent to my home to test (I currently have five on my counter), the La Pavoni team recommended I come in-store to experience its Mini Cellini machine alongside a team professional. Why? Because La Pavoni machines are very technical and known for their specific-to-brand functions. Basically, this isn't just any espresso machine or coffee maker.

Once I saw the machine in person, I instantly found myself in awe of its sleek design. To preface, La Pavoni machines have been around since the 1860s, and some haven't changed their design since — they work that well. The machine operates through a lever system that manually runs the espresso shot (there are no buttons, even on the semi-automatic machines). This, paired with the stainless steel body and cafe-style design give the brand a timeless aesthetic.

The La Pavoni Mini Cellini is basically a slightly smaller model of the classic Cellini machine, meaning it's also slightly more affordable. And, as for the coffee accessories that come with the appliance, it's a limited selection, but only what you need — a portafilter — and nothing more.

La Pavoni is also offering a limited edition home barista kit accessories bundle at the moment, for £199 (which includes items like a tamper, tamping mat, milk jug, steamer cleaning cloth, etc), which I also think is well worth buying.

Testing the Machine

Now for the ultimate test — what makes this machine synonymous with luxury? Does it really show a difference between similar machines, like the KitchenAid semi-automatic espresso maker? (A strong favorite of mine.)

When trying out the La Pavoni Mini Cellini machine, you can tell it's for true coffee fanatics — people who want to get more hands-on with the coffee-making experience and really lean into the art of how espresso is brewed, from bean to cup.

To grind the beans, you will need to invest in a separate coffee grinder. I tested the La Pavoni Kube Mill grinder for this review, but I also recently tried the Smeg grinder, and it's a great and more affordable option as well.

From there, you tamp and insert the portafilter the same as any machine, but that's where the similarities to the rest of the market end. La Pavoni, as mentioned, has no buttons, so the espresso is brewed by lifting the lever on the front of the machine up to start and down to end. While it's not complicated to operate, it definitely elevates the experience into something that feels way more professional and cafe-quality.

Testing my milk frothing techniques on this machine was a similar experience. Not complicated, but more polished and masterful. One of my favorite details? The top of the machine warms when turned on, so you have a space to warm your mugs while you brew.

Quality of Coffee

Of course, if you're considering investing in a La Pavoni machine, then the quality of the coffee definitely matters. Luckily, this part of the test did not disappoint.

The first pull of espresso had a decently thick crema level with consistent results throughout my time with the machine (we probably pulled around eight shots in total). While the grind size needed on the La Pavoni manual lever machine is much finer, the Mini Cellini machine is compatible with coarser grinds. It really all depends on the beans you have and how dark a roast you prefer.

My one note is that the steaming wand is noticeably more advanced — it's the same technology and intensity that the large machines at cafes use. So, proceed with caution until you get used to it.

But all in all, the quality of coffee is impressive.

Should You Buy the La Pavoni Mini Cellini Machine?

This is definitely a machine for more serious caffeine and coffee-making addicts. The £1000 price tag definitely means that you should be serious about elevating your home coffee bar; however, this is an appliance you will have for the rest of your life.

Where many of the La Pavoni machines are rather large (the brand regularly caters to hotels), the La Pavoni Mini Cellini won't take up more counter space than something like the Breville Barista Sense machine. It's surprisingly slim.

Plus, if you value form (like me), then you can't go wrong with the Mini Cellini. It merges traditional Italian craftsmanship with modern retro aesthetics. I fear that I'll be dreaming of this machine for years to come.

In short, I definitely think this is a machine worth investing in if you're ready to take a more serious step in your coffee setup.

La Pavoni Accessories to Pair with Your Machine

If you love the technical vibes of this espresso machine, but are looking for something a little more beginner-friendly, then I would suggest considering a manual espresso machine. These are typically smaller, affordable, and are a great first step when exploring the art of making coffee. One of my favorites is the ROK Presso Smartshot Manual Espresso Maker.

Everybody loves an iced coffee. An espresso shot mixed with creamy milk over ice, and suddenly, your cup is empty in half the time of your hot drink. But as much as I (and seemingly everyone on social media) love an iced vanilla oat milk latte, true coffee connoisseurs know the appeal of cold brew.

Cold brew is stronger, more aromatic, and simplistic in an 'I love coffee for coffee's sake' kind of way. Smeg's new manual espresso and cold brew coffee machine just cut the cold brew brewing process from a typically 24-hour ordeal down to a four-minute process, making it possible to add fresh cold brew over ice to your morning routine. It really is the simple pleasures that make getting up in the morning that much more worthwhile.

Full disclosure: I had the opportunity to view this machine in action at a Smeg event back in September, and I was blown away by learning how the process makes this form of cold brew possible. But of course, I had to try it out myself (without the Smeg professionals around) to see how easy the machine is to use at home. Spoiler alert: it's become one of my new favorites — here's why, plus a full review of the device.

First Impressions

First impressions of this machine were a smash hit — from unboxing and installation to setting it up in its place on my countertop. It's hard not to find yourself mesmerized by Smeg's iconic retro-style appliance range, but I must say I was almost more impressed with the packaging.

The machine and each separate part came in a cloth bag for protection, but really, it made the unboxing experience feel extremely elevated. When you're investing in a quality espresso machine, you want to feel like you're paying for that quality — safe to say, we were off to a good start.

Now, the Smeg cold brew coffee machine doesn't come with many extra coffee accessories. You have your portafiller, varying filter baskets, and tamper; it's the essentials, but no flourish. More notably, there is no built-in grinder — an element that you would have with other semi-automatic machines, such as the Kitchenaid semi-automatic espresso maker.

For the sake of this review, I also tested Smeg's matching grinder to appreciate the full experience (and I highly recommend considering this route yourself, if you don't already have a coffee grinder at home).

Testing the Machine

This machine comes with both a hot espresso function and a cold brew function. So without further ado, let's dive into how each of those operates.

Testing the Espresso Maker

I am no stranger to experimenting with espresso machines vs coffee makers, and everything in between (I have four machines currently in my apartment). So, I find that brewing the first espresso shot on a new machine comes pretty naturally to me (I've had a lot of practice).

I mention this because Smeg's instruction manual isn't the easiest to follow. If this is your first time using an espresso machine, you'll get there — it just might take a few read-throughs of the instructions to grasp the step-by-step process.

However, once that is all said and done, I truly think this is one of the easiest coffee machines to use. There are three buttons at the top — for a single shot, double shot, and milk steaming — and when the lights are white (the white light indicates the machine is in 'espresso mode'), you pop the portafiller with grinds in and let the brewing begin.

Simple, streamlined, and resulting in a smooth espresso shot.

Testing the Cold Brew Function

Now for the cold brew side of things. To begin this process, ensure that the lights on the top buttons are set on the blue setting; then, decide whether you want a single or double serving of cold brew.

I'd also say it's important to ensure you have the right filter basket in before you begin brewing. Where the espresso shot requires a pressurized basket, the cold brew method uses a non-pressurized basket. This, along with a larger bean grind size, helps the water to filter through the grinds more easily.

Keep in mind that while this is an exceptionally fast cold brewing process, it will still take longer than a standard espresso shot. I timed my double cold brew out to be around five minutes total.

Plus, you don't have to have much experience with steaming wands or milk frothing techniques to try your hand at a latte. Once again, the Smeg cold brew coffee machine delivered a very user-friendly experience when steaming milk.

Quality of Coffee

Even though the design writer in me loves aesthetics (and the night owl in me loves an easy morning routine), the quality of the coffee is the most important part of investing in a coffee machine.

I can honestly say that I was very impressed with the espresso shots this machine pulls. The very first one had a nearly perfect crema layer, and the milk came out silky on my first go on the steaming wand as well. Maybe I have a bit more experience than the average person, but I do think that this is a very beginner-friendly machine.

However, to have the best quality espresso, you will most likely need to invest in a grinder.

As for the cold brew, it's hard to describe how impressed I am with this machine without sounding hyperbolic. Cold brew is a process that usually takes around 12-24 hours.

After years spent working in a cafe that sold homemade cold brew, this process is a drag. So, getting a double cup of cold brew in just five minutes is phenomenal. And, more importantly, it tastes delicious.

You can either brew the cold brew directly over ice or add it afterwards (it comes out slightly warm, so you probably want to add ice for the full cold coffee effect). Then simply add milk or drink as is!

Should You Buy the Smeg Cold Brew Coffee Machine?

So now, the question of the hour: Should you buy the Smeg cold brew coffee machine? If you are ready to invest in a high-quality machine for your home coffee bar, my answer is: yes, yes, definitely yes.

This machine is slim enough to fit on countertops with limited space (even with the grinder, it still doesn't take up too much room); you get a unique variety of regular espresso and cold brew that you definitely don't get with other machines; plus, it's easy to use. That's a win, win, win.

If you're looking for something all-in-one, of course, I'd opt for something more automatic, like the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch machine or again, the Kitchenaid semi-automatic.

Also, this machine runs a bit louder than some of the other machines I've tested recently, so if you're living in an apartment with thin walls and grouchy neighbors, you might want to take that detail into consideration.

All in all, the Smeg cold brew machine has my full stamp of approval.

More Coffee Products From Smeg

If you value aesthetics and variety, then the Smeg cold brew coffee machine is the coffee maker for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for something that caters to a busy morning schedule, you may want to browse your automatic machines and coffee pod machine options; there are plenty of appliances that combine form and function there as well.

I'll be honest, at first, I was a little bemused by Samsung's newest TV release. The Movingstyle is a little bit of a different concept, even for a brand that's known for innovation in its ideas. Given that Samsung has in recent years implemented AI into its TVs, as well as bringing the biggest collection of Micro RGB screens (an apparent game-changer in screen technology), Samsung's Movingstyle's quirk is something altogether a little simpler. The lowdown: it's on wheels.

That's to simplify it a bit, and yes, this Samsung TV is certainly giving retro-futuristic sci-fi vibes in its own right, but the crux of the idea is that it's a TV you can wheel around with you. It's not an entirely novel idea — LG has the curiously-named StanbyME, which offers a similar prospect, but with potentially not fantastic reviews.

I had tried to imagine just why you would need a TV that offered this, but then it came to me. I came across someone using one in the States (where it's been out a little longer than in the UK) on social media. They'd wheeled it into their laundry room while they were folding their clothes, and then I could envision all the time I spend at home trying to do menial tasks while watching something on my phone — a tiny screen, awkwardly propped, constantly rewinding because I'd missed a bit of audio from its micro speakers.

Listen, if you're trying to drop your screen time, it's possibly not the wisest investment, but after imagining a million scenarios in which I would use it around the house, the true test came in reviewing it myself. And, after two weeks, I found it had become a bit indispensable to how I was living. Can't I just keep it, please, Samsung?

Features

Part of the usefulness I found in the Movingstyle came down to the versatility of features I hadn't clocked from the get-go. Its portability isn't just in the fact that it's on a wheeled stand, but also that it has a rechargeable battery with a three-hour charge, so you don't need to be tethered. Three hours might not seem like a huge amount, but the way in which I always ended up using it meant it was never really an issue, bar remembering to plug it in after I'd used it.

The screen is touchscreen, which makes it easier for kids to use and makes it good for gaming.

The stand itself has an adjustable head so that it can be raised and lowered in height, but also angled. You know that feeling when you're trying to watch something while lying on the sofa, but you can't get the right angle? This solves the problem. I'd never put an actual TV in my bedroom for design reasons, but the Movingstyle was kind of the perfect set-up for watching a movie in bed. You can literally lie down flat and watch one comfortably.

It's a sturdy set-up too — sturdier than I was expecting, and that's largely down to the base. I was surprised by how heavy it was, which is an absolute necessity for the screen not tipping over, but it does make it a little more difficult if you want to do something like move it from the ground floor to upstairs. For that, I'd not only disconnect the screen but also the stand from the pole. Lifting the base is a little like lifting an atlas stone, so you need some leverage.

The one thing that makes this less of a problem is that the screen quite easily detaches from the stand, and it has a prop integrated into the back, so you can use it by itself in its own right — a little more useful when you've not got the floor space, but are standing at a counter, for example. It was almost like bringing back the kitchen TV.

Style

I'm generally tech-averse in the design of my home (though I do love my Samsung Serif TV in my living room for its unusual outlook on TV design), and I wasn't particularly expecting the Movingstyle to change that. It does have a little bit of the sci-fi about it, or perhaps even a hospital monitor. It's sleek, white, but pleasingly matte, and actually, I found that it did disappear into the background more than I'd expected.

What's more, if you are really TV-averse, like I am in the bedroom specifically, it gives you an option to not have a fixed one at all. I can imagine it wouldn't be incredibly difficult to squeeze the Movingstyle into a small cupboard, instead of your vacuum or ironing board, or even in a dedicated, pre-designed one, so that you only have to wheel it out when you want to watch it.

Specs

I won't dwell on the specs too much, as realistically, it's not the type of TV you're buying if you're worried about cinematic picture. However, given some criticism of similar TVs, it's worth understanding what you can expect.

I think it's fair to compare it to something like Samsung's The Frame, a popular 'art TV' by the brand, that perhaps isn't best known for its groundbreaking specifications, particularly compared against more 'serious' TVs, but offers a comparison of the Movingstyle against a more typical-style TV.

The screen was actually larger than I expected in real life — it's 27-inch, so small enough to be easily movable, but large enough that you didn't feel like you could have just watched on an iPad. The QHD display resolution doesn't stand up to The Frame 2025's 4K UHD by any stretch of the imagination, but I found it pleasant enough to watch, especially in the context of how I was using it. The sound, too, is not as powerful as The Frame (which again doesn't set the standard for sound quality itself), but it was at least louder than I'd expected when turned up.

As an owner of The Frame, too, I was familiar with the Tizen operating system, so it felt comfortable to operate, yet I found the Movingstyle generally more reactive than some of my experiences with Samsung TVs, which was a pleasant surprise. It's a little more intuitive, too, thanks to its touchscreen control.

Is It Worth It?

The price of the Movingstyle in the UK is £1,119 at John Lewis (it's currently out of stock at both Curry's and Samsung itself). How that price strikes you might depend on how you view this idea, but having been hands-on with it and feeling how sturdy and well-constructed the idea is, it's a price I feel comfortable with.

Whether it's worth the price tag for you really depends on your use case. I've tried to imagine some of the people this product is specifically for, and it's not for everyone. Realistically, because my home is quite small, it's not the most necessary for my home, but even I found myself using it regularly during the review period, out of more than just duty.

I recently hosted my parents, and as any doting daughter would, I put them up in my bed while my partner and I took the blow-up mattress in the living room. Now, my mother has high standards when it comes to fabrics (she taught me to always check the tags), and she's also never been one to shy away from telling you what she thinks. So, safe to say, I slept well that night after I heard her slip under the Wave Embroidery Duvet Set from Christy that I'd be testing, and say, "Oh, these sheets make such a lovely crispy, crunchy sound."

And while, in my eyes, that should say enough, I won't leave the review there. While she spent just a few nights beneath the sheets, I've been reviewing them for a few months — testing how they feel as the temperature drops, how well they wash, and, importantly, what they look like on the bed.

During this review process, I also happened to be invited to the 175th anniversary celebration for Christy, and learned so much about the heritage bedding brand that has supplied everyone from Queen Victoria to, more recently, Wimbledon. In short, Christy's sheets have really impressed me (and my mother), and I'm already considering trying out the towels next.

Is Christy Bedding Good Quality?

There is a lot you can tell about a bedding material just by looking and touching it. The first test is always the touch test — good bedding will often feel cool to the touch, but this also gives you a chance to feel how close the fibers are, and therefore, how soft and breathable the bedding will be.

This Christy duvet set instantly felt cool to the touch. It also had a firm rigidity that gives it that 'crispy' hotel-like feel, but it didn't feel tough or scratchy in the slightest. It's made from 100% Cotton Percale in a 200 thread count, which isn't the highest, but certainly isn't bad.

The next thing I always look for is the quality of the seams, and, on a duvet cover specifically, the closure mechanism (whether buttons, a tie, or a zip). In this case, it's clear buttons, nice and evenly spaced, so your duvet won't sag between the gaps.

The stitching along the seams is also very neat and feels somewhat reinforced in the corners, which makes it feel especially durable compared to other bedding I've tried.

It's worth noting that it doesn't have internal ties in each corner of the duvet cover, which some do to hold the insert in place — a detail I typically like — but I also haven't had any issues with my duvet gathering or bunching yet. (If this is a big concern of yours, you can buy these duvet snap clips from Amazon that solve the problem for just £5).

How Is Christy Bedding to Sleep In?

As my mother can attest, as soon as you slip into this Christy bedding set, it makes that satisfying 'crunchy' sound, and feels cool yet soft. I've been sleeping in it for a few months now — October through to December — and even as the temperature has dropped, I've found it has remained warm and snuggly, yet still super breathable (and my partner is a particularly hot sleeper).

Similarly, the pillowcases are soft yet cool, so if you're someone who finds themselves constantly flipping to the 'cool' side throughout the night, with this set, you won't have to as much.

I also have a double bed, but a king-sized duvet cover, so that it generously drapes over the side, so I sized up for this duvet cover and haven't had any issues with it slipping or sliding on my bed.

How Easy is Christy Bedding to Care For?

As cotton bedding, it's relatively easy to care for. The instructions say a 40-degree 'normal' wash is best (though I've been doing it on cold), to tumble dry on low heat (but line drying is best), and to iron at no more than 150 degrees. It also says not to bleach, dry clean, or wash in products containing optical brighteners.

I will admit, though, that it wrinkles quite easily — I guess that's the downside to the 'crisp' feel, and I'm not really one to be bothered to iron my bedding, but I find that after sleeping in it for a few nights, it smooths out a bit. (And for the sake of the photos in this review, I ironed it.)

I used to be fiercely loyal to linen bedding, but I've grown to learn that, as much as I like the relaxed look, there is something about crisp cotton bedding that's also very appealing. And, even though I religiously wash my bedding weekly, cotton tends to somehow feel fresher for longer, which is a bonus.

How Does Christy Bedding Rank On Style?

As previously mentioned, the sheets do crinkle very easily (and after washing), so to ensure they look their best, they'd really require ironing — probably before and after they're put on the bed.

I'll also admit, when it comes to bedding, I typically tend to reach for classic white sheets. This set is a great foundation for any bedroom, while the blue embroidered wave edge detail adds a little touch of something-something without having to commit to anything too trend-led or overwhelming.

That said, it's probably not the first design from the Christy range that I'd choose for myself (it reminds me a little too much of the scallop-edge decor trend that was everywhere in 2023), but there are plenty other, more timeless styles to shop.

Is Christy Bedding Worth It?

For the price (which feels very reasonable), Christy's bedding seems like a no-brainer to me. When you find a brand that's been around for 175 years, there's typically a reason why... and now I know why.

If you're someone who loves the feeling of 'crisp' sheets, or perhaps you're a particularly hot sleeper, I think these 100% cotton sateen sheets are a wise investment. Honestly, regardless, I don't think anyone will find these sheets uncomfortable — it's not like a linen that takes time to soften.

But it's also worth considering the upkeep that may be required in terms of aesthetics. If you like not only the feel of crisp sheets, but the look, you'll have to be prepared to iron your sheets (likely both before and after they're put on the bed).

For me, they've already replaced my John Lewis' Washed Cotton bedding as my go-to sheets, and yes, now I'm eyeing off a set of Christy's towels...

Countertop kitchen appliances don't have too much bearing on how you design your space, usually. Yes, you might require a little more storage if you've got everything from a food processor and mixer to an ice cream machine, but you'll probably know whether or not it's worth adapting your design to how much you use these culinary gadgets.

However, what piqued my interest in Bora's range of QVAC appliances originally is that one of the models can be directly installed into your kitchen countertops, meaning you don't have to have any extra appliances on show, nor heave another thing out when you want to use it. But, I'll admit, I was intrigued as to whether a vacuum sealing machine was something I could justify using enough in my kitchen to ever consider installing it in my kitchen.

To see whether it was a design application worth the time, I asked kitchen appliance brand Bora to try its QVAC Move (a portable appliance that offers the same applications, but that doesn't require you to make a hole in your work surface) to test out how much I could see myself using it. And, I'll admit, its versatility did surprise me.

It felt like the perfect time of year to test Bora's QVAC Move out — after all, over Christmas, not only have I been cooking a lot more than usual, but I've also found myself with a lot of leftovers to deal with. This is one of those kitchen gadgets that will help you waste less food.

Armed with instructions and an ideas book from Bora, I got to work testing out the QVAC Move in a few different applications.

How Does It Work?

The QVAC Move itself is a sleek pill-shaped box, shorter, but with about the same footprint as a super basic pod coffee machine. It doesn't give much away to the naked eye (something reflective on the built-in version of the QVAC, too), but you press down on a circle on the top to release the mechanism with the vacuum hose. You then pull this out to its full length, where it looks into place (giving it a little tug for it to instantly retract), before fixing it to your sealing medium.

Now, it's important to point out that the Bora QVAC Move comes with two applications for vacuum sealing. There are traditional bags, which you might be familiar with already with other vacuum sealers, but the QVAC range also has specific storage containers that can be vacuum sealed, too. These interested me a little more, as they felt like I was more likely to use these regularly than having to deal with the bags.

For vacuum-sealed storage, you put the sealing nozzle onto the standard lid of the storage container and simply press the appropriate button on the device. It then quickly seals the box, and you remove the nozzle. What you need to remember when it comes to accessing your stored leftovers again is that you need to flick the valve open before you open the box to release the pressure.

To use the marinade function on the boxes, you need to swap to a different valve on the box, which comes supplied as standard, before fixing the nozzle and choosing the marinade function. This programme lasts around 10 minutes, and pressurizes and repressurizes the box (or bag) to recreate the effect of marinating something for hours.

There are also bottle stoppers to vacuum seal bottles, which I haven't utilized quite yet, but I can see how they'll come in handy, especially for things like half-finished bottles of wine, or dressings and vinaigrettes.

How Effective Is It?

As a device itself, I had no problems operating the Bora QVAC Move, at all. It's so simple to use (though I recommend acquainting yourself well with the instruction booklet, just for any peculiarities in using it safely), so, for me, it's more a question of whether vacuum sealing is something I really need to bring to my kitchen.

Let's start with marinating. If you're using fresh ingredients, but only want to start cooking as you're ready to eat, not hours before, I can vouch that it did make a big difference to the marination process. I found that it added more flavor to my meals, specifically when used on meat, or for softer, more porous vegetables. It definitely improved the flavor of my carrots and parsnips, pictured, on Christmas Day, but not quite as dramatically as in other applications. On reflection, I think I should have run the marinating cycle at least one more time — something you're encouraged to do where you think it might be necessary.

Vacuum sealing is meant to not only help food last longer, but also preserve it in a way that helps it retain moisture, so your leftovers actually taste better. If you're big into food prep and freezing, it'll actually help prevent 'freezer burn' from occurring, too.

I did a control test with the leftover turkey this year, with half in a standard storage container and half in a Bora QVAC container, and the latter clearly preserved the meat better, offering a better texture when coming back to these leftovers a day later.

Is It Worth It?

If you're into home cooking in a more serious way, then yes, this gadget is going to give you access to vacuum sealing for methods like sous-vide cooking in a whole new way. For the less serious, it's a way into marinating without pre-planning, cleverer food prep, and making a stand on making less food waste.

However, it's worth remembering that Bora is a premium brand, so the quality you get with this system comes with a price tag. The Bora QVAC Move retails at £429 usually, however, is on sale for £266 right now. With that in mind, it's not a gadget you're necessarily going to take a huge chance on without knowing that you'll definitely use it, so whether it's worth it or not for your kitchen will be a question only you know the answer to.

Alternative Vacuum Sealers

Now, full disclosure, despite what my parents may think, just because I work on a website doesn't mean I'm down with all things tech-related. I don't have my home set up on a smart system, I still don't fully understand the Cloud, and yes — I tend to pick my tech based more on what it looks like, than what it can do.

It's for that reason that when I was faced with the prospect of buying a TV when I first moved into my new flat, I opted for a projector instead. Personally, I don't like the look of TVs, and hate the idea of arranging my living room to make it the focal point.

Now, my partner knows a lot more about tech than I do, but I know deals, so we bought the most basic — but good-looking — model on the market. I had no complaints with it, until Epson reached out and offered to let me test its new Epson Lifestudio Flex EF-72 Projector (available here on Peter Tyson, or on Amazon, too, on sale for Black Friday, and with a free gift of a Nespresso coffee machine on both sites)and I discovered the full extent of what the best projectors can really do.

If you take away anything from this review, let it be this: it has super crisp visuals, it's the only brand to have built-in speakers by Bose (and you can connect to them via Bluetooth and use them separately), it has ambient LED lights that let it double as a table lamp, and it's pretty pretty, thanks to a sleek, oak finish.

First Impressions

Even though I'm not great with tech, I'm also a millennial, which means I never seem to have the patience to read instruction manuals. Luckily for me, the Epson EF-72 projector steps you through the setup process with relative ease. Features such as the zoom shift, auto-shape correction, and corner adjustments all helped.

The projector has quite a wide range of motion: it tilts upwards 90 degrees (should you want to project onto your ceiling?), downwards 15 degrees, and swivels 180 degrees.

When you dig deeper into the settings, you'll discover additional features such as the wall color correction, which helps if you're not using a screen like me and don't have pure white paint on your interior walls.

There's also a feature that shuts off the projection if someone walks in front of it, for safety, but, to be honest, I turned it off after a while because I kept walking in front of it (I like to have something — *ahem* reality TV — playing while I clean the house), and it means you have to press play again on the remote every time. It's a great feature if you have children, though, I'd say.

While, at first, I had it positioned on my coffee table directly in front of the wall it was projecting onto, I've since moved it to a high stool next to my sofa, tucked away in the corner to be more discreet, and it managed to auto-adjust to the diagonal cast with ease.

What Are the Features of the Epson Lifestudio Flex EF-72 Projector?

Style

Okay, I'm putting this first, because, as I've said, style ranks high for me when buying... well, just about anything. And when it comes to coffee table projectors, Epson's Lifestyle Flex EF-72 in Oak scores big on style.

Rather than a squat box, it sits proudly on a small stand (and you can buy a taller, adjustable floor stand too), has a stylish oak-veneer top, and is wrapped in fabric on the sides, which conceals the Bose speakers.

I must admit, compared to my Samsung Freestyle 2nd Gen Portable projector, this model is quite large and harder to conceal in your space, so thankfully, it makes an effort to look good.

Image Quality

Honestly, I am not the best person to run you through the ins and outs of the image specs, so instead, I'll show you. Above is a comparison of the same scene — yes, it's the "Pick Me" moment from Grey's Anatomy, of course — shown on my £499 Samsung projector versus the £1,149.99 Epson EF-72 model.

I have skylights in my living room, which makes it difficult to get the space dark enough for the best projector experience, but I found that the Epson EF-72 was able to handle it significantly better, with the image appearing much crisper and the colors more vibrant. The clever wall color correction setting also likely helped with that, as I don't have a dedicated projector screen in my space.

There are also three image settings: Vivid, Cinema, or Natural. I have personally set mine to Cinema, which I found smooth, slightly muted, and warm. Vivid was quite bright, white, and had a sharper contrast, and Natural felt warm and soft (and quite similar to Cinema). From each setting, you can also manually adjust everything from saturation to brightness, etc., so you can get super specific, if you know what you're doing.

Sound

This was a big selling point for me in the beginning: the fact that you can use the built-in Bose speakers not just as a part of your viewing experience, but separately as a Bluetooth speaker.

When watching TV on our Samsung projector, we would have to connect a separate speaker in order to really hear anything. That's not necessary with the Epson EF-72 — the built-in speaker does a great job. We don't have a huge space, but it fills the room easily.

There are also multiple audio settings to choose from: Standard, Music, Dialogue, or Cinema. Once again, I've set mine to Cinema, which felt louder (in a good way) and fuller. Music felt more muted (I presume it's best for when you're just using the speakers), Dialogue boosted the mid-range, which meant sharper dialogue, and Standard felt a bit flatter, but by no means bad.

Extras

Gently tap the top of the projector, and you'll switch on the ambient lighting, which glows from beneath the unit (meaning yes, it can double as a table lamp). Hold it down, and it dims; tap again, and it turns off. Once again, a really nice touch. I often use it as ambient lighting in our living room, even when the projector is off.

You can also buy Karaoke microphones that connect directly to the projector, if that's your kind of thing — it's not mine, personally, but it's there.

Is the Epson Lifestudio Flex EF-72 Projector Worth It?

Okay, the big question. Is the Epson Lifestudio Flex EF-72 projector actually worth its more than £1,000 price tag? I think if you're a true cinephile who knows what's what when it comes to all things tech, there is a lot you'll love about this projector. There are plenty of adjustments and settings to play with, plus, it looks really good.

If you're like me, there's also a lot to love about this projector. It can do a lot of the hard-lifting for you, and, if you want it to be, it can be quite a hands-off experience. Just plug and play. But, if that's your approach, it's likely you'll be just as happy with a far more affordable projector, so it's worth asking yourself how much you're really willing to pay for something, just because it's pretty.

Another cozy November day, another coffee review from me. If you've spent any time in the espresso-making world (or browsed any kitchen utensils for that matter), then you've likely heard the name Breville (or it sometimes goes by the name Sage, if you're in the US). The brand is famous for its high-tech and high-quality appliances, but how do its coffee machines really stack up? Well, for today's review, I've put the new Breville Barista Sense espresso machine (currently on sale on Amazon with £200 off) to the test.

I've tested enough coffee machines in the past six months alone to feel confident navigating the best espresso machines on the market right now. Usability, shot quality, and design should be your main priorities. These considerations are what will lead you to a streamlined and functional home coffee set-up — and isn't that what all of us coffee connoisseurs and caffeine addicts want? So, does the Breville Barista Sense Espresso Machine meet these standards?

After spending some time with the machine, I can confidently say that if you're ready to invest in a larger appliance, it's a great choice for both beginners and experienced baristas. Why? Find all my deep, coffee-powered thoughts and opinions from unpackaging to serving up a latte, below.

First Impressions

As far as first impressions go, this machine knocked it out of the park. It comes well packaged and with plenty of instructions (including labeled stickers on the front of the machine) and all the necessary coffee machine accessories to make a quality latte.

There were a few standout inclusions that I appreciated and thought needed special mention. First, the accessories (though admittedly limited in flair) are well thought out. The milk jug is larger than what machines of this value typically give you (which is helpful if you are a milk steaming novice). Also, the portafilter is light, and the tamper is heavy, another good combination for beginners.

Beyond practicality, this is also a very attractive machine. I am slightly partial to anything with a shiny, chrome finish (something about chrome coffee accessories feels so timeless), but the glossy finish on this machine is undeniably chic. Sure, this may mean more regular cleaning, but that's a small price to pay for something that will always sit on show on your counter.

Not to mention, it's rather slim in size compared to other similar machines (like the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic espresso maker), which is fabulous for apartment dwellers or a kitchen with limited counterspace.

Testing the Machine

Even though I have become somewhat of an expert when it comes to coffee machines, I like to start my review process by pretending I have no clue what I'm doing. First up, I read the instructions step-by-step and start-to-finish.

To that, I can attest that the Breville Barista Sense Espresso Machine instructions were perfectly clear. To set it up, all you have to do is plug it in, turn it on, fill up the water tank and bean hopper, and begin.

Thanks to its slimmer silhouette (though certainly nothing close to the streamlined size of the De'Longhi Dedica Duo), it comes with smaller components. The water tank and bean hopper don't hold as much as larger espresso makers, but I was able to make around 10 or more coffees before having to refill either.

What I was most impressed by were the grinding functions and the milk steaming wand. The grinder operates with a tap function, meaning you pop the portafilter into the machine and tap down on the handle once or twice for either a single or double shot. Simple, but this function felt very elevated and modern.

As for the steaming wand, milk frothing techniques can be difficult to master, but the Breville Barista Sense Espresso Machine made it really easy. I found that there was a more consistently smooth milk output than with other machines. Plus, there are aple temperature options depending on your preference.

Quality of Coffee

So, let's talk coffee quality. Overall, this machine can make a fabulous cup of coffee. However, I did run into a few small hurdles along the way.

Mainly, I found that the proper crema level on the espresso shots was harder to achieve. There are plenty of options to change things like the grind size, water temperature, and shot length (which definitely helped), but still, I had more trouble getting that desired thick crema layer than I wanted.

That's not to say I didn't get there in the end. In fact, with how easy this machine made it to perfectly steam milk, I was very pleased with the coffee results. Also, with semi-automatic machines like this, I find that a little challenge in the beginning is welcomed in order to really understand the art of making coffee more comprehensively.

Should You Buy The Breville Barista Sense Espresso Machine?

So, here we are. All that's left is to decide whether this is the right machine for all your glorious coffee bar ideas. I currently have both the Breville Barista Sense Espresso Machine and the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic espresso machine sitting on my kitchen counter, and it truly is a toss-up for which one I like more.

However, I'd say this machine is ideal for anyone working in a tighter space and who prioritizes functionality (perhaps a beginner). The Breville Barista Sense Espresso Machine has a slimmer body while still accommodating all of the high-tech functions of a semi-automatic machine.

Plus, it's great if you want to capture that cafe, industrial-chic aesthetic (yes, we care about the aesthetics here at Livingetc). Elements like temperature control, grind size versatility, and easy milk steaming make it stand out as a beginner-friendly machine and a piece that is a true upgrade to your coffee maker vs espresso machine set-up.

More Coffee Products

You (hopefully) have the machine sorted now. All that's left is to get that home cafe up and running.

Are you waking up and not feeling rested? Are you dreaming of lying your head down after a long day, only to find yourself tossing and turning? If you answered yes to either of these questions (or both, like me), it may be time to invest in better bedding. And, after testing Cozy Earth's Bamboo Jersey sheets, I may have found just the upgrade you're looking for.

I've always been someone who seriously considered the type of sheets I dress my bed with, as it's not lost on me that the quality of your bedding can elevate your entire experience. Egyptian cotton has always been at the top of my list, and as of late, linen sheets have been higher on the agenda. But jersey fabric? That was a hard no.

Until now. So, how did Cozy Earth's Bamboo Jersey sheets flip my script? After three weeks of sleeping on them, washing, and repeating, I found that they completely challenged what I thought I knew about the fabric. The sheets are stretchy (enough so to firmly hug the bed), breathable, and ultrasoft. As a result, I've become a jersey-sheet convert. But are they the right sheets for you? Here's my honest review of this viral US-based bedding brand's sheets, and what to expect should you choose to shop them for yourself.

• It's Not Just for Pillowcases — This Smooth, Skin-Friendly Silk Comforter From Cozy Earth Is the Ultimate Bedding Upgrade
• I Tried Cozy Earth's "Aloe-Treated" Silk Pillowcase and Consider Me Converted — It's Expensive, Sure, but Think of the Money I'll Save on Facials
• I Tried Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Viscose Comforter — Is It Really Worth the Spend?
• I May Have Just Found the Greatest Blanket on Earth — Cozy Earth, That Is

Are the Cozy Earth Bamboo Jersey Bedsheets Good Quality?

From opening the packing, I knew that these sheets were going to be different than my regular crisp cotton sheets. Mostly because of the sheer weight of the set — honestly, I couldn't believe how heavy it was.

First up: the touch test. I expected jersey to mean super soft (too soft), but the bamboo vs cotton material gives this set a bouncier, more breathable character. The stretch is akin to your favorite exercise set, while the softness is reminiscent of your favorite plain white tee.

There is a double stitch along every seam, and the elastic band on the fitted sheet is actually strong enough to hold onto your mattress through the night. Anyone who's dealt with pesky sheet corners knows this is a major win.

It's all sunshine and roses so far, but how do the Cozy Earth Bamboo Jersey sheets hold up after washing? Full disclosure: I don't have an in-unit dryer, so that affects my experience. It took about two days (and some time near the radiators) for the sheets to dry completely, but once they were, they kept their form and texture beautifully. One thing I will note is that after about one month of consistent wearing and washing, there is slight picking happening already, especially where your body would lie.

Overall, I'd say that this bamboo jersey sheet set thoroughly impressed me in both the quality of material and comfort. But how has my sleep improved?

How are the Cozy Earth Bamboo Jersey Bedsheets to Sleep In?

It's like with T-shirts: you question how a plain T-shirt could ever cost £75 until you feel the material. And if those T-shirts make a difference to your outfit, surely these sheets could change the way I sleep. Despite my reservations, the softness of the Cozy Earth Bamboo Jersey sheets feels just as luxurious to sleep in as it did upon initial impression.

For context, I tested the sheets for about one month, washing between the first and second weeks. At the time of testing, November's winter weather was settling in London — temperatures were around 3 to 9 degrees Celsius at night.

I was excited to test this bedding as the touch test alone removed any of my initial reservations. And yes, sleeping on them proved to be a similar experience. The bedding was soft, had just enough weight to maximize coziness without feeling stuffy, and kept me warm through the night.

I opted for the white as, for me, it's the best bedding color for a restful sleep. I also have a mattress topper on my bed, so even though my mattress isn't thick, I often struggle with fitted sheets coming loose during the night. However, as mentioned, the Cozy Earth Bamboo Jersey Fitted Sheet is large enough to almost be considered a deep fitted sheet, and has a strong elasticated band around it that helps it stay in place all night long.

Composition-wise, the sheets are made of 93 percent bamboo viscose and seven percent spandex, which explains their breathability and temperature-regulating ability. Paired with the knit design and meticulous stitching, its durability meets style.

How Does Cozy Earth Rank on Style?

In terms of style, there is not so much more to say other than that these are your very standard white bed sheets. They look crisp and clean when made on the bed, but I wouldn't venture so far as to say they stand out style-wise from something like an Egyptian cotton sheet set.

The main thing to note here is that they are a bit weightier and have a quality knit construction. I noticed that I was able to smooth out any wrinkles more easily and style the sheets in a way that I can't always achieve with crisper cotton or silk.

Cozy Earth's Bamboo Jersey sheets also come in light blue, stone, and driftwood brown — a very earthy and sleep-promoting collection.

Are the Cozy Earth Bamboo Jersey Bedsheets Worth It?

Cozy Earth's Bamboo Jersey bedding is expensive for a sheet set, yes, but I'd argue that it's one where you can really feel the difference in quality when it comes to sleeping. Overall, this is a bedding I'd invest in.

And when it comes to where to buy bamboo bedding, it's also worth noting that Cozy Earth's pricing is similar to many of its competitors. At £150 for a king-size flat sheet, it is pretty much on par with what you can find elsewhere (and it's currently on sale).

That being said, investing in Cozy Earth's set isn't the most expensive sheet option, but it's still an investment in something more luxurious. The prices are higher, but you'll have a sturdier build and a noticeably more comfortable sleep. Of course, you can shop for more affordable alternatives to high-end bedding, but you may lose some of the quality.

I hadn't tried anything from Cozy Earth before testing these bamboo jersey sheets, but I will be back for more. Perhaps even with the matching Cozy Earth bamboo viscose comforter.

When I first moved into my flat, I didn't have a coffee machine. That meant I became quite accustomed to a cup of instant each morning (I know, I know, the former barista in me is appalled). Well, I now have four machines on my counter — all being trialed and tested — and I've really learned just how much your machine can impact the flavor, quality, and enjoyment you get from the milky morning ritual.

Well, one of those four machines is KitchenAid's Semi-Automatic Coffee Machine (currently discounted by £318 on Amazon), and it just might be one of the best espresso machines I've tested so far. What works for you all depends on what you want from your coffee. Do you value flavor freshness? The ability to steam milk? An easily customizable routine?

KitchenAid's Semi-Automatic Coffee Machine seems to tick all the boxes. It's high-tech enough to produce that sought-after high-quality brew at home at the touch of a button, but still lets you take enough control of the experience to hone your at-home coffee-making craft. But before you commit, here are my honest thoughts.

First Impressions

If this were a job interview, I would've hired the KitchenAid Semi Automatic Espresso Machine With Burr GrinderKitchenAid Semi Automatic Espresso Machine With Burr Grinder on the spot. Why? When I opened the package, there were cardboard handles to help pull the product out of the delivery box. A small detail, but anyone who has ordered a large machine online knows the struggle of trying to slide it out awkwardly. I felt this inclusion shows the brand really thought about the entire process. So, 10 points to KitchenAid.

However, the machine itself scored a solid first impression as well. It's sleek, sophisticated, and surprisingly slim. Was I slightly worried that my small apartment kitchen would no longer have room on the worktop? Yes. However, that proved to be far from reality. And in some ways, it took up even less room than other pod machines, like the Morning Machine, which has a very long body. Alternatively, the KitchenAid is far more compact.

Plus, it arrived with the necessary coffee machine accessories, like a milk frothing jug, portafilter, and even an extra water filter. So far, so good.

Testing the Machine

For me, the real test lies in how easy a machine is to use. Yes, being an ex-barista and a self-proclaimed coffee snob means that I enjoy all the faff of a complex coffee routine. I like steaming the milk, grinding fresh beans, and reminiscing on my cafe days. But I am also someone who needs every extra minute of sleep, so ease is key.

The instruction manual and step-by-step were, thankfully, very easy to consume. I went old-school and followed the paper manual, but you can also scan a QR code for video help from KitchenAid on how to set up the device.

Considering how high-tech the machine looks, the semi-automatic name rings true. That is, you still feel like the one making the coffee, rather than the machine doing all the work for you. Fill the water tank with water, fill the hopper with beans, set the dials to your preferred settings, press the button, and follow the steps for making coffee. Easy as counting to five.

Even though freshly ground beans are tastier, I really liked the function of being able to use pre-ground beans as well. Versatility is key when choosing an espresso machine vs a coffee maker.

Quality of Coffee

Full disclosure: My partner and I grew to really like a humble cup of instant coffee in the morning. So, when I passed him his first latte from the KitchenAid semi-automatic coffee machine, I waited in honest anticipation. Would it be enough to convince him that we need to give this machine a permanent home in our flat?

To my delight, the coffee scored a 10/10 with him. But there are a few factors that determine the quality of coffee made by this machine. First of all, taking the time to perfect the grind size, temperature, and shot size is key to finding a flavor that is perfect for your taste (I was able to get the grind to a level I was happy with after only two or three tries). You can use pre-ground beans, but you risk your cup of joe being a step below cafe-level.

Learning the proper milk frothing techniques is also essential, as burnt milk will never lead to a luxury latte. The good news is that it's nearly impossible to reach that point as the steaming system is designed to be easy, and there are clear instructions for how to use it.

Rather than having to shop for syrups and fancy add-ons to help make your Nespresso pods taste better, this cup of coffee is delightful with just the espresso shot and your milk of choice.

Should You Buy The KitchenAid Semi Automatic Machine?

So, here we are with one last question to answer: Is the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic coffee machine the right device for you?

This is a fabulous machine for anyone ready to invest in a quality espresso maker that is a step up from smaller, more basic machines, like the De'Longhi Dedica Duo, but isn't necessarily a pro barista. You can easily produce a quality cup of coffee, but there is still enough user interaction to learn more about grind size and milk frothing, further enhancing your skills.

The size would obviously be more ideal for kitchens that have counterspace to spare or a dedicated coffee nook, but as mentioned, it is surprisingly slim (my small apartment kitchen doesn't feel overcrowded). It's more a matter of what you want to prioritize. Maybe a stylish coffee pod machine is better for convenience's sake if you already have a busy morning schedule.

Overall, this is a machine that has definitely made it to my top three coffee makers that I have tested, for quality, value, and usability.

More Coffee Products From KitchenAid

No coffee nook is complete without the right machine. Could the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic coffee machine be the missing piece for your space?

Maybe it's the fact I live in London (where the water is very, very hard) or that I recently turned 31, but I've started to really notice those little lines that I wake up with around my eyes — I sleep on my side with my face seriously scrunched into the pillow — sticking around until well after my first cup of coffee. So, when Cozy Earth kindly offered me the chance to test one of its silk pillowcases, I thought it was about time I jumped on the bandwagon.

The benefits of silk pillowcases, by now, are generally well understood. Smoother hair, it's softer on your skin, hypoallergenic, naturally thermoregulating... so, what's taken me so long? Honestly, I was hesitant about the work involved in washing silk pillowcases, and I don't particularly love the lustrous look of the fabric against my otherwise crisp cotton bedding.

Safe to say, I was going to be a picky customer when it came to reviewing Cozy Earth's £90 (currently £63) Silk Pillowcase, but the brand has reached cult-status in the US (it even made it to Oprah's 'Favorite Things' list before), so I was excited to see how it stacked up. Before writing this review, I made sure to inspect, wash, and use the pillowcase for two weeks to see if it really was deserving of its 4.9/5-star reviews. Here's how it went.

• It's Not Just for Pillowcases — This Smooth, Skin-Friendly Silk Comforter From Cozy Earth Is the Ultimate Bedding Upgrade
• The Idea of Jersey Bedding Made Me Hesitant Initially, but Then I Tried Cozy Earth's Bamboo Jersey Sheets — And, Wow, I'm a Convert
• I May Have Just Found the Greatest Blanket on Earth — Cozy Earth, That Is
• I Tried Cozy Earth’s Bath Towels — Here's My Honest Thoughts on Whether They’re Worth the Hype
• "The Softest Sheets I've Ever Touched" — Cozy Earth's Soft-Wash Cotton Collection Converted Me Into a Total Bedding Snob

First Impressions

My first impression of the Cozy Earth Silk Pillowcase was very positive. I really liked the color (I already have John Lewis' Washed Cotton bedding in French Blue that I was trying to match, and it was pretty close).

Apart from that, this is what stood out to me most:

• Shipping: Considering it was coming from a US brand, delivery to the UK was faster than I've experienced with some local brands. Specifically, the order was confirmed on Tuesday, shipped on Friday, and received the following Monday. It's also worth noting that there is free shipping to the UK on orders over £350, and considering the cheapest sheet set starts at £240, it shouldn't be hard to spend that much.
• Packaging: I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, and although I don't imagine I'll ever actually be bothered to store my pillowcase in it again, it did arrive in its own buttoned-up pouch, rather than plastic, which felt like a nice touch.
• Sizing: Once I put it on my standard-sized pillow, I did notice that it felt a little oversized, but perhaps that has to do with the US-UK bedding size conversion. Regardless, the pillowcase has a decent-sized overlap closure inside that comfortably holds my pillow in place.

Is Cozy Earth's Silk Pillowcase Good Quality?

Cozy Earth lists that its silk pillowcases are made from 100% Mulberry silk with 6A long fibers, which is the highest quality of raw silk available. Mulberry silk is made by silkworms, which are fed mulberry leaves, and is known to be the best and softest variety. Considering it's produced in a controlled environment, it's also considered the most consistent and therefore durable type of silk.

On first inspection, it felt just as cool and silky smooth as you'd expect. It was lightweight and subtly shimmered as it caught the light. To add to its silky-smooth feel, the fabric has been sand-washed and "treated with aloe vera," which, according to the brand, provides additional soothing benefits to hair and skin.

As it's a delicate fabric by nature, a lot of the complaints I read about silk pillowcases relate to tears, especially along the seams. I did see that one review mentioned the pillowcase had started splitting along the seam after nine months of use. In my own inspection, I noticed it appeared to be a double seam (good for durability) and that it looked very neat. I consulted my mother, a talented seamstress, who confirmed my suspicions: "Looks very well made," she added.

It's also worth noting that Cozy Earth's bedding range comes with a '100 Night Sleep Trial' where you can sleep on your decision (literally) before choosing whether you'd like to return or exchange the product. After that time, the complete bedding and bath collection has a 10-year warranty against "pilling, abnormal rips and tears, and workmanship defects", and in that instance, will be replaced.

How Easy is Cozy Earth's Silk Pillowcase to Care for?

This, for me, is arguably the biggest question, because it was the care required that prevented me from purchasing a silk pillowcase in the past. Cozy Earth's website says it's machine washable, but the tag on the pillowcase specifies dry cleaning or hand-washing in cold water using a mild detergent. It also recommends hanging to dry and only using an iron on a cool setting — and definitely not the dryer.

Taking the more cautious approach, I chose to hand-wash my pillowcase in cold water with Koala Eco's Natural Laundry Wash (available at iHerb). To dry it, I laid it flat on a towel, which I then rolled up and squeezed to remove excess water (just like if you're drying a woollen jumper). I then unrolled it and left it lying flat on the towel to air dry.

Surprisingly, it didn't take very long to dry, and looked and felt good as new. So, a little bit more faff is required than just shoving it in the washing machine with the rest of your sheets, but one day I might be brave enough to try (though I'd make sure to put it in a washing bag, like this one by Steamery, to protect it from getting tangled with the rest of my washing).

So, Is Cozy Earth's Silk Pillowcase Worth It?

So, is Cozy Earth's Silk Pillowcase worth it? £90 is certainly steep for one pillowcase, and there are definitely more affordable alternatives on the market. In saying that, one of Livingetc's former style editors swore by Blissy Silk Pillowcases, and they retail for £83 each, so in terms of quality options, it appears to be quite comparable.

And what about my skin and hair? While I haven't necessarily noticed a big change in my hair (I'm still early days), I have noticed that the few pesky zits that kept popping up along my jawline (coincidentally on the same side of my face that I sleep on) have been nowhere to be seen lately...

Stylistically speaking, I probably would have preferred a set over a single pillowcase, so that my bedding matches, but for this price point, I'd probably look at Cozy Earth's very popular Bamboo Pillowcases instead — they offer a lot of the same benefits, but only set you back £90 for a set of two. They also come in a few more colors and some of the brand's best-selling patterns.

That said, if you're serious about your beauty sleep or looking for a great gift for someone who is, I don't think you could go wrong with a Cozy Earth Silk Pillowcase. (Plus, it's currently 20% off in the brand's Black Friday sale, so now is the time to shop.)

I will preface, though, that, should you choose to look at cheaper options and different brands, it's important to ensure you're not getting satin rather than silk. They may look similar, but they're anything but.

In the world of stylish, lustworthy pizza ovens, there are two main contenders: Ooni and Gozney. Having owned and loved an Ooni pizza oven for years, I considered my answer to which was best a foregone conclusion, and didn't expect Gozney or any other brand to change my mind — that was until I tested Gozney's Arc XL.

After building an oven in his garden, founder and designer Tom Gozney's obsession with making the perfect pizza changed his life, and the Gozney brand was born, offering at-home pizza ovens that deliver restaurant-quality pizzas. My husband and I know all about the obsession with making the perfect pizza, having fine-tuned our pizza-making process over the years (through a lot of trial and error, might I add), but could the Gozney model change our years-long love of our Ooni?

I tested the Arc XL for months, and while there were a couple of niggles, I was overarchingly impressed. So if you're debating, 'Is a pizza oven worth it?', I can assure you that they are. This is everything I discovered throughout the testing process, from the cooking area to the lateral flame, that will put your debate to rest.

Style

My first impression of the Arc XL, aside from its size (my Ooni Koda 12 looks dinky by comparison), was that it's an incredibly stylish model. As far as portable pizza ovens go, this looks and acts the most like a built-in version that I've come across, offering the performance of a restaurant oven in an at-home model that makes top-quality pizza-making easy.

The model almost reminds me of a motorbike helmet, which seems quite apt, as its hard outer shell protects the glorious pizza inside as well as the brain of the process: the lateral flame. Better yet, the shell is also high-temperature-painted, water-resistant, UV-stable, and chic.

If you have an outdoor kitchen, the countertop pizza oven can be placed wherever you want it (though a booster is recommended); if you don't have a dedicated cooking station outdoors, the Arc XL Stand, suitable for both the Arc XL and smaller Arc model, creates your own portable outdoor kitchen on wheels, with foldable wooden wings and hanging hooks for ultimate convenience.

Quality

There is no doubt that the Gozney Arc XL is a top-quality model, with every element of its design carefully considered, right down to the high-quality cardboard packaging it arrived in (no polystyrene in sight, thankfully), to the straightforward instructions that made it quick and easy to assemble.

The Arc XL Cover also looks great and works really well — using the toggle to pull it tightly around the oven, the heavy-duty fabric made from water-repellant materials adequately protects it from the elements, making us confident to leave it outdoors, worry-free.

All of the Gozney pizza accessories we tested are of high quality, too — I am particularly fond of the Balance Placement Peel, as the holes ensure all the excess semolina is removed from the base of the pizza before you put it in the oven (you need to put semolina under the base of your dough so that it easily slides into the oven, otherwise it will likely get stuck and I can't tell you how disappointing it is to scrape a sticky dough off an oven to have to start over again).

Testing

I was very excited to get a pizza in the oven, but I must say, the main downside of the Arc XL is the length of time you need to wait for the pizza stone to heat up — it is a large cooking space, made of 20mm thick cordierite stone, after all. Granted, we also kept the oven outside, so it's already starting at a lower temperature than if you were to store yours in a shed or garage, for example.

To get to the desired 450-degree cooking temperature, we needed to wait just under 37 minutes — plus, in the bitter winter months, this will likely be slightly longer. However, this is your prime time to get prepping your pizza doughs and ingredients, so that when the oven is ready to go, you are, too.

You also need to ensure you constantly monitor your oven's temperature — if you let it go past the desired temperature, it will keep going, and you'll also have to wait for it to come back down, which is another time element you don't want to have to factor in. But I love the built-in digital thermometer — our Ooni pizza oven doesn't have one, and it makes such a difference.

My husband and I are a dream team when it comes to our pizza-making process, having gotten it down to a fine art over the years. Whether we're using frozen pizza doughs for ease (The Northern Dough Co.'s Neapolitan Pizza Dough Balls at Amazon, or possibly even your local supermarket, are our favorite) or making fresh doughs from scratch, we each have our roles that make it an easy and enjoyable experience, and I have to say that the Arc XL definitely made it easier and more enjoyable.

I love the way the flame goes over the top of the pizza rather than being heated from the back — designed to replicate a wood fire, it definitely helps with heat distribution and even cooking, and I much prefer the pizza crusts. Plus, if you're on top of your temperature monitoring, you'll have a restaurant-worthy pizza ready to be devoured in 60 seconds: unreal.

Slight downside in the Bone color pizza oven is that there is slight staining at the top of the shell after cooking (the majority of it can be wiped down after each pizza-making session, so as long as you stay on top of keeping it in shape, it isn't too much of an issue, but some discoloration will remain), however, choosing the Off Black Pizza Oven would also solve that issue — though, personally, I prefer the look in Bone.

All in all, my husband and I were thoroughly impressed and couldn't quite believe that we had been converted from an Ooni pizza lover to a Gozney pizza lover! The pizzas are delicious and the style is so design-forward that you'll be inviting all your friends round for pizza nights every week (or else they'll be asking).

Top Tips

• Always keep a close eye on your temperature — Once it goes over the desired temperature it will continue to increase for a while, so you will need to wait for it to come back down, which can take some time; equally, if you let it drop too much, you need to factor in time for it to reach temperature again, so it pays to keep a close watch.
• You need a turning peel — If you buy one pizza accessory, let it be the turning peel. You can get away with other kitchen paraphernalia for the majority of the process, but I can't think of another item that could replicate the turning peel in a standard kitchen items list. This is what helps you maneuver the pizza once it's in the oven, and considering the whole pizza is cooked in 60 seconds, you need to make that quick and easy! Gozney's Balance Turning Peel does exactly that.
• Do NOT omit semolina — Your pizza-making process will categorically go wrong if you don't include this supermarket item in your list (or you can buy something like this Natco Fine Semolina at Amazon). It stops the dough from sticking to your peel, both when launching into the oven, as well as when turning and retrieving it, and without it, you have a sad, soggy mess of a situation you would much rather be without, trust me. Cornmeal and regular flour might help, but I personally found semolina to be superior for avoiding the dreaded 'stick'.
• Frozen dough balls are an absolute game-changer — No time to make fresh dough? No problem. We swear by The Northern Dough Co.'s Neapolitan Pizza Dough Balls at Amazon when we're time-poor, as they are so close to the real deal.

Shop Gozney Pizza Accessories

Gozney has a vast selection of pizza oven accessories, but if I were starting my pizza-making journey from scratch, these are the three items I wouldn't be without.

So while there are a couple of small downsides, overall, I am thoroughly impressed with the Arc XL, as well as Gozney as a brand, and, of course, the delicious pizzas that we've been able to create. Yes, it’s on the pricier end of the spectrum, but you’re getting what you pay for in quality, design, and end results.

Want to make it prettier? The Gozney x Tonester collaboration has seen the Gozney Arc XL re-released in a brand-new color, but only for a very limited time. Or, for other Ooni alternatives, I have listed the competing brands that are big on both style and function.

From the brand's bamboo bedding to its iconic bubble cuddle blanket, Cozy Earth has had its fair share of viral moments, and for seemingly good reason, too. Their products are well-loved by celebrities and Livingetc editors alike.

But while we know the brand's blankets and bedding are second-to-none, we were unsure as to whether their bathrobe would meet the same standards.

So, when Cozy Earth offered to send one my way, I gladly accepted. I decided I'd take one for the team and test their Luxe Bath Robe— it's a tough job, I know. And after a week of pretty much exclusively wearing this robe, it's safe to say I have some thoughts.

• The Idea of Jersey Bedding Made Me Hesitant Initially, but Then I Tried Cozy Earth's Bamboo Jersey Sheets — And, Wow, I'm a Convert
• I Tried Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Viscose Comforter — Is It Really Worth the Spend?
• I May Have Just Found the Greatest Blanket on Earth — Cozy Earth, That Is
• I Tried Cozy Earth’s Bath Towels — Here's My Honest Thoughts on Whether They’re Worth the Hype

First Impressions

To describe this robe as feeling like being hugged by a cloud seems like a horrible cliche, but I dare you to try it on and have anything else to say.

The first thing I'll note about this purchase is not to do with the robe itself at all, but the process of receiving it. Despite coming all the way from the US, the timeline from placing my order to wrapping myself up in the robe post-bath was less than a week in total, which is pretty impressive given how long typical shipping times from the US to the UK can take.

And having just recently watched a TikTok of a content creator explaining how making her robe part of her routine for dark mornings has helped her beat the winter wake-up blues, this Cozy Earth bathrobe could not have come at a better time. Her logic seemed sound. One of the hardest parts of exiting the safe refuge beneath my duvet is the inevitable cold chill I know is waiting for me on the other side, so having something to mitigate this was an appealing idea.

And as soon as it was in my hands, I knew this Cozy Earth robe was going to do the trick. It's impressively thick, I'm talking two regular bathrobes stacked on top of each other, thick, and supremely fluffy too. It's kind of the platonic ideal of the bathrobe, and to be honest, it made my worn-out White Company robe look a bit sad in comparison.

But while the comfort was next level, there was one immediate downside to my new bedtime uniform. Before I'd even gotten the robe out of the plastic packaging, I could see a rogue thread floating around in there with it, an ominous sign I thought at the time. And later that night, my suspicions were confirmed. As I applied my various potions and lotions, I was continuously finding spots of fluff littering my face — an unwelcome new layer in my nightly skincare routine.

And when I peeled myself out of bed the next morning (yes, I did wear the robe into bed, I told you it was comfortable), there it was again. A layer of brown cotton thread, scattered across the surface of my white sheets. However, this issue did seem to calm down after the initial few days of wear, but it is something to potentially bear in mind.

The Style

In terms of visual appeal, there's not much more you could ask for from a bathrobe. It has that perfect spa look, but the quality is leaps beyond what you'd find at even the best design hotels.

It comes with an adjustable waist tie and two generously sized pockets on either side. The only amendment I would make is the lack of a hood. Now, while some may disagree, I feel that for optimal coziness, a hood has to be invited to the party. However, I do accept that the collared, hoodless look is perhaps more classic, so I'm willing to take this point as a matter of personal preference as opposed to a failing on the part of the robe.

Customers can choose from seven different colorways, including the classic, crisp white, a charcoal-y grey, and a soft baby pink shade. Beyond the block color offerings, there are a further four striped designs on offer, too. I opted for the newest of the designs, the super luxe-looking Espresso Coconut Stripe. And I've got to say, I haven't regretted my decision for one minute. The deep chocolatey brown tone gives the robe an even richer, luxurious look. It feels more grown-up than a white robe and has a real private members club feel to it.

I spent some time umming and ahhing over whether to go for an M or an L, as I knew I'd want it to be slightly oversized, and at 5'10", most things tend to run slightly too short for me. However, on account of this being a unisex fit, I opted for the M instead and have been very satisfied with my decision. While I'm sure the L would have been fine, the M is the ideal oversized fit for me, so if you're flip-flopping between sizes, I'd recommend sizing down.

The Feel

As I've mentioned a fair few times now, this robe is ridiculously comfortable. It's soft, thick, and cozy. And as much as this makes me love it, it should be noted that this could be a potentially off-putting factor to others.

If you're looking for the kind of lightweight, breathable robe you can throw on as soon as you get out of your shower room, and can keep wearing all year round, this might not be the robe for you. Due to its thickness, this is not the robe you want to use in lieu of a towel. Instead, it serves better as a kind of intermediary situation, for when you're not quite ready to put on your pyjamas but no longer need to be in your towel.

Or, if you're anything like me, this might just serve as your catch-all home outfit. If I'm being completely honest, since owning this robe, I've spent more time in it than I have out of it. First thing in the morning, I'm wrapping myself up in my robe, then as soon as I'm back home and out of my outside clothes, I'm back in the robe. It's become a uniform of sorts.

Post Wash

I'll admit, I was slightly apprehensive to throw my robe into the washing machine, having already formed such a strong attachment to the extreme fluffiness of the material. However, I was delighted to find that post-wash, my robe remained just as comfortingly cozy as it had before.

As per the biggest bath towel mistakes to avoid, I purposefully steered clear of using any fabric softener in this wash. With high pile materials like this, any kind of detergent can begin to build up within the fibres of your robe, creating a rougher texture.

I then proceeded to tumble dry my robe on low, as recommended on the Cozy Earth website. Once it was out of the dryer, a thorough shake to fluff up the fibres again was all that was needed to bring my robe back to its original state.

Is It Worth It?

Now for the part I've been putting off telling you: this robe usually retails for £170/$148, but is currently on sale!

Is that a lot of money for a robe? Maybe for some. But does it feel worth it? Don't hate me, but... I think it does.

Let me make my case. If I continue to wear this robe with the voracity I have thus far, I can't help but think it would be one of the most worthwhile purchases I could make. Compared to a winter coat, which I would easily spend the same, if not more, on, I'd undoubtedly get more wear out of this. And if you're looking at things with a cost-per-wear perspective, this robe practically pays for itself.

Now, can you get other robes for lower prices? Of course you can, but you will feel the difference. Before this beauty entered my life, I'd been using the same White Company for the past few years, and honestly, I was delighted with it. And at only £70, it's a fraction of the price.

However, now that I look at it next to my new, gorgeous robe, they're in two different leagues. My Cozy Earth robe is practically double the thickness of my older model, and the coziness I feel in it is unmatched.

It may not be a budget buy by any means, but if you're looking for the perfect present for a loved one (or for yourself), this should be at the top of the list. But if you need even more present inspo, just take a scroll through our epic winter Fifty, make sure your wallet is prepared.

As an ex-barista and a current coffee writer, I've admittedly become a bit of a coffee snob. I like my coffee to taste delicious in my cup and my machine to look stunning sitting on the counter. With these two requirements in mind, I've been eager to get my hands on The MORNING Machine by the rapidly growing coffee pod machine brand, Morning.

You may not have heard of The Morning Machine yet, because the company was only officially established in 2018, but its quickly building a name for itself. The brand was born from a shared interest in bringing finesse, convenience, and high-quality coffee directly into the homes of coffee-lovers. Since then, the morning machine has grown into one of the best coffee pod machines on the market. Why? Its sleek design looks seamless on the counter, the brand stands behind environmental practices, and the high-tech features allow for barista techniques from the comfort of home.

The MORNING Machine is quickly becoming a must-have among coffee aficionados and professionals who need a tasty cup of joe on the go, but is it the right machine for you? Read on for my full review, and decide for yourself below.

First Impressions

I had heard a lot about this machine before trying it, so there was definitely a lot of hype for it to live up to. Would it really be as easy to use? Would it fit fashionably on my small apartment countertops? Would the coffee taste good to a picky drinker like me? Most importantly, is investing in a coffee pod machine worth it?

It's safe to say, I was immediately impressed. The machine is surprisingly slim and, if you are a small space dweller, should not be ruled out when planning your space-saving kitchen ideas.

As for the unboxing process, the machine does not come with virtually any accessories — just a tray for your mug to sit as the machine weighs and brews your drink. So, if you are planning on crafting milk-based drinks, you may want to consider investing in things like a Smeg milk frother, a stainless steel milk jug, or even a chic water kettle.

You will also need to purchase a few coffee pods (the machine is compatible with most coffee pods and Nespresso pods, but the brand has its own, too) to begin brewing. I tested the Bread & Butter capsules from the Morning collection.

All that being said, the thing that most impressed me as I unboxed my new coffee machine for the month was something you may miss if you don't take a second look. While pod machines are notorious for being bad for the environment, the MORNING machine comes with a bag to recycle your pods responsibly, and all pods sold on the brand's marketplace are either recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable...The environmental studies student in me is still smiling.

Testing the Machine

The MORNING Machine obviously gets major points for finesse and aesthetics, but will it hold up when it comes time to brew?

Most of the gossip and commentary I had heard about this machine prior to trying it myself was about the genius tech and smart coffee maker features. It has a smart screen dial that allows you to personalize your brew settings, and ground-breaking tech that allows you to connect your machine to your phone.

For context, the MORNING Machine is the first-ever capsule machine that connects to your smartphone, offering superior control over your coffee experience with firmware updates that enhance your brewing process. Seriously, you can press a button on your phone and start brewing your coffee. It's all your favorite clever coffee gadgets wrapped up in one machine, but the convenience of this tech doesn't come without some practice.

The instruction manual is clear, and the digital screen is there to guide you, but to truly reap the benefits of what this machine has to offer, you have to live with it for a bit. This is because you can choose from either 10 'Ready-to-Brew' barista-crafted recipes or the 'Manual Brew' mode, which offers complete control over your brewing process. You can even fine-tune aspects like brew temperature, pressure, and recipe ratios.

If that felt like a lot to digest, it's because it is, and it's a lot to get through in person as well, as fun and exciting as it may be.

All of that to say, don't let this machine's technology drive you away. It's easy to use, and a consistently delicious cup of coffee is ready in just about 30 seconds or less.

Quality of Coffee

I must admit, I have often been skeptical of coffee pod machines and their capabilities of producing an espresso shot that rivals the best espresso machines. While I was incredibly impressed with the quality of coffee from The MORNING Machine, it still comes down to what you prefer in terms of flavor.

It's hard to make a Nespresso pod taste better — they tend to always be weaker than an espresso shot from a specialized machine. However, I was impressed with both the machine's advanced brewing technology and Morning's extensive selection of capsules from specialty roasters around the world.

The commitment to coffee flavor comes as no surprise, as one of the founders, Leon Foo, is a veteran of the coffee industry and has been championing specialty coffee in Singapore and Malaysia since 2009.

All in all, the quality of coffee is well worth the investment for a pod machine.

Should You Buy The Morning Machine?

So only the big question remains: should you buy The Morning Machine? My short answer is, yes. If you are on the hunt for a great coffee pod machine or a coffee machine in general that will upgrade your routine and make you excited for your morning brew, I would absolutely recommend this appliance.

The MORNING Machine is perfect for any busy professional or those of us who love a lie-in in the morning. It brews a tasty cup of coffee both quickly and quietly, and if you put a pod in the machine at night, you can start brewing from bed. Trust me, I know those extra seconds of sleep are worth it.

Those with a bit more experience and who value the art of a true espresso may be more satisfied spending money on something like the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch, but for just under £500, this is a machine with just as much tech and barista-grade pay-off.

If you're tossing up between an espresso machine vs a coffee maker, how about this high-tech, high-reward coffee pod machine? It's a fabulous blend of form, function, and usability.

More Gadgets From Morning

Looking for something just as design-forward, but with a bit more of a 'back-to-the-basics' feel? I recently tried the manual ROK Presso Smartshot espresso machine and was thoroughly impressed.

I've tried and tested enough coffee machines to know that good, simple design trumps high-tech almost every time. When it's time for the essential morning caffeine boost, sometimes you don't want to fumble through a bunch of confusing buttons and fancy settings — you want your espresso hot, fresh, and where it belongs: in your hand. For that, I thought, why not go back to the basics? And what better way than with the ROK Presso Smartshot manual espresso machine?

ROK has always put design at the forefront. The brand's lead designer, Patrick Hunt, explains to me that he wanted to design a powerless appliance that looked just as good on the counter as the espresso it made tasted. And so, the new Presso Smartshot (an already award-winning espresso machine) immerses you in the craft of espresso making, without needing all the bells and whistles.

First impressions: it's impressive, great for small spaces, and undoubtedly a unique conversation piece. But does it walk the walk when it comes to serving a quality cup of coffee? My thoughts, opinions, and full review, below.

First Impressions

If this were a job interview, then I would've hired the Presso Smartshot machine on the spot based on first impressions alone. Nothing is worse than having to lug and unload a heavy machine in your kitchen, and do you really want to sacrifice the counterspace?

This machine is shockingly light and small enough to tuck into your bag and take it with you to the office (if that's what you really want/need to do). For someone like me, who lives in a small urban flat, this is the ideal appliance size for making the most of a kitchen with less counter space.

With minimal previous experience in the manual espresso machine world, I was a bit confused upon first glance about how this machine was going to work. However, the instruction manual was clear, and there are only really three steps from grind to cup.

Testing the Machine

The unboxing of the Presso Smartshot definitely left stars in my eyes, but the true test of an espresso machine or coffee maker is how it runs, of course.

The appliance doesn't come with much; just a coffee scoop, a portafiller, and an espresso funnel attachment. However, this machine doesn't actually need anything more.

To operate the Presso Smartshot, you fill the portafiller with grounds and lock it into the machine, then fill the top up with freshly boiled water. After that, you lift the handles slowly, pause, and then press them back down. Thirty seconds later, an espresso shot with a crema layer is ready to drink. It's truly as simple as that.

One thing to note is that because the machine is so light, I found the base to be slightly unstable. And knowing how to handle the portafiller and handles takes some getting used to. But once you do, you're fine.

The beauty of this machine's simplicity could also be a drawback for some — you will need a few additional accessories to make the most out of your experience. For instance, hot water is necessary, so having a kettle nearby (like this one from Amazon) is a good idea. Or if you are a milk-based drink lover, then you'll probably want to invest in a milk frother to practice your milk frothing techniques.

Quality of Coffee

As with all espresso machines, you will need to pull a few shots before getting one that tastes ideal and has the perfect crema top layer. With this machine, it truly doesn't get much easier. The pressurized portafiller does the hard work for you, ensuring that every shot comes out at the right speed and potency.

As for what kind of grounds to use, Patrick says, "You can use virtually any grind size with this device. A super fine grind (something finer than the typical espresso size) may not be ideal, but besides that, it is up to your taste preference and how you like your coffee." I like a strong coffee, so I used espresso-sized grinds from a local coffee shop.

The element that the Presso Smartshot offers that a normal coffee pod machine doesn't is the freedom to choose any specialty coffee, roast, or blend you desire. It's the perfect choice for people who value ease but also want to dive deeper into the coffee-making experience and explore flavor profiles.

Should You Buy the ROK Machine?

So, it comes down to one final question: Is the ROK Presso Smartshot machine worth buying? I genuinely couldn't recommend this machine more. After testing it (and using it in place of my everyday machine), I believe this is a true stand-out appliance in its field.

Not only does it have a design-led appearance, but Patrick explains, "This is a machine that will stay with you. I designed the ROK machine to be lasting, so that you can feel good about your carbon footprint while enjoying the luxury of a great cup of coffee." At just £160, it's a life-long piece that's easy to commit to.

If you have the room and like the appeal of larger, more automatic machines such as the Ninja Luxe Cafe Premier, or you prefer milk in your morning coffee, then the ROK machine might not be the machine for you. Alternatively, if you value simplicity, have limited outlets and counterspace, and crave a consistently creamy espresso, then this powerless machine is one to add to your wish list.

Now all that's left is to stock up on all the clever coffee accessories no coffee nook is complete without. The experience is half of what makes a good morning brew.

Given that many premium linen bedding sets retail for somewhere over £200, M&S linen bedding immediately struck me as a good deal, at just £105 for a king size set. It, at a glance, looks great, and comes in a really promising range of colors if you're following modern trends — the big question: how does it sleep?

I've tested a few M&S sheet sets now, and I definitely rate it as a bedding brand. If you scour the reviews of this particular product on the M&S website, you'll find a lot of five star reviews, but also a few one star reviews that compare it to 'sleeping on sandpaper'. I get the sense that these reviewers are perhaps new to linen bedding, and in general, it's not ever as soft as cotton bedding to begin with, especially straight out of the packet, without washing a few times first.

What I can tell you as someone who has reviewed a lot of linen bedding is that this is actually one of the ones I've tested that felt pretty soft after the first wash. It's a light and airy linen that does well in warmer temperatures, but it's fair to say that this comes with some drawbacks, too.

Is M&S Linen Blend Good Quality?

The first test for linen bedding is the touch test — simply putting the palm of your hand on the sheets, and seeing if it feels slightly cooler than the ambient temperature of the room. M&S's linen bedding does feel cooler, which is a pretty good sign that it'll help regulate your temperature as you sleep.

After that, it's time to turn the sheets inside out, and see what's going on inside. In terms of seams, this bedding in particular actually has an exterior seam, so there's only a short overlocked hem on the inside, with two rows of single stiches on the exterior border. This exterior seam is generally stronger than an interior one, with neat stitching. However, there are a few loose cut threads at the end of the seams on these sheets, even though they're on the exterior.

The M&S linen bedding does have a little linen shedding, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, and even more expensive sheets such as Bed Threads linen bedding had some shedding. However, not all linen sheets do this, so it's worth noting.

How Is M&S's Linen Bedding to Sleep In?

I always pre-wash every bedding set before sleeping in, something that for linen bedding, always helps it soften a little, as linen fibers are a little stiffer and crisper before washing. However, I did note that the M&S bedding was significantly softer than a lot of the other linen bedding I'd try after this first wash. It feels light and airy, great for summer and for hot sleepers. This bedding was partially tested in a heatwave with temperatures between 24°C and 18°C during the night, and it definitely helped keep things cool.

However, this softer structure did seem to affect its longevity between washes, as I make a note of how long it is before the bedding starts to feel 'saggy', as linen does after a certain amount of time being slept in. I'd say you would need to wash these bed sheets after around 4-5 days from that perspective, which might be more frequent than you'd like.

One of my other requirements these days is a deep fitted sheet, and this M&S linen bedding deep sheet delivers. It means the sheet is less likely to come loose, which is something I need as my mattress is quite deep itself.

How Does M&S's Linen Bedding Rank on Style?

This linen bedding range is pretty simple but classic, and has a range of 13 colors to choose from. Largely, they're the more common colors you'd see for bedding, but there are some more out-there, 'rich' colors, too.

In general, this linen has a great texture and looks sophisticated on the bedding. You could, also, choose a mix of color bedding and pillowcases for a more creative way of how to style a bed, as you don't only have to buy it in bedding sets.

Is M&S Bedding Worth It?

We've already talked cost, but as a reminder, we're looking at £105 for a king size bedding set (without a sheet), which, compared to something like Bed Threads and Secret Linen Store at around £230-£250, is good value. M&S's offering doesn't necessarily meet the same standard across the board, but it's a great linen bedding for the price, regardless, and one you'll be happy with if you're into linen.

Of course, they're still expensive compared to basic cotton sheets, and they're not for everyone, as those aforementioned one star reviews go to show. But if you want linen sheets that don't cost too much of your budget,

You can tell a lot about a hotel room by its coffee maker. If it's a kettle and sachets of Nescafe, then fine, but I'll probably not be taking my coffee in my room unless things get desperate. Recently, I stayed at the fanciest hotel I've ever stayed at, and looking for my morning coffee fix, came across the Nespresso Creatista Plus by Sage (available here from Amazon) in the small pantry. It looked great within the space, and having never used it before, it felt like the perfect time to put to the Livingetc test.

Of course, it makes total sense for a hotel room, even one on this scale, to opt for a Nespresso machine like this over a traditional espresso maker. You don't always want the hassle of calling for room service each time you want a caffeine fix, and these machines are easy to use, even for the uninitiated, producing very good coffee with very little work. Having used Nespresso machines before with a varying success rate, I'd say the Nespresso Creatista Plus by Sage is easier to use than most. It veritably holds your hand through making the coffee in a way that only a much more expensive machine would usually, so there's little guesswork in getting the type of coffee you want.

Of course, it's a Nespresso maker, so it's a little limited in what you're able to achieve outside these parameters, but if you're not a mega coffee nerd and just want an upgrade to your standard morning coffee with a maker that actually looks good on your counter, then this machine is still a great option. Newer models have more mod-cons, but if you're happy to keep it simple, this one's for you.

But before you decide, let's dig into it a bit further with our coffee test.

First Impressions

The big trend in coffee makers right now is the 'coffee shop' aesthetic. That means stainless steel, steam wands, various dials that make your machine look more complicated (often more complicated than it actually is). On this front, the Sage Nespresso Creatista Plus definitely delivers. I like the all-stainless steel version, and though it's not as big as another popular machine like the Sage The Barista Pro, it still commands a presence. While it looks a little complicated, it's actually not at all. There's one dial with a digital screen, one place to put the Nespresso pod in, one place where the coffee comes out, and your milk wand.

It bears repeating, it's not as big. That means if you've only got a small kitchen, this is a better option for you than one of the large espresso makers. Unlike a lot of pod coffee machines, this one incorporates the milk wand, meaning you don't need an extra appliance, without being as large as something like the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista.

Testing

To test the Nespresso Creatista Plus by Sage, I made three coffees of different styles: a lungo (which is basically a slightly longer espresso, ie. it has more water in it), a cafe latte, and a flat white, to get a taste of each of these coffee types, and a sense of how to operate the machine.

The lungo is the simplest, as you just pop your capsule in, put your cup under and press the start button. The cafe latte and flat white the first step is the same, then it moves onto the milk steaming or frothing. Once the Nespresso pod has been expressed, it will wait for you to press start again on the milk function. You lift the steaming wand, put the milk jug underneath, and it does your milk in about 10 seconds. The one thing I couldn't quite figure out was how much milk to put in the jug, perfectly, so that you get the nice mix of hot milk and frothed top out of the jug, but I think I'd get there with practice.

After you've removed the milk jug, the wand will self-clean inside with a jet of steam and hot water — something important to keep it running smoothly, but you'll need to clean up the tip of the wand itself. The machine will need descaling at least once a year, maybe more depending on your water hardness, but it's always a good idea to use filtered water to make Nespresso coffee taste better.

Quality of Coffee

I made my coffees using Nespresso's Volluto pods, to suit my tastes. 'Crema' and Nespresso aren't really words that go together. The top of the coffee, that looks somewhat like a traditional crema, is created by the Nespresso's brewing process, but isn't necessarily a real one. Regardless, the coffee delivered was light and creamy, and the warmed milk enriched the brew.

Its possible to manually set the milk temperature, but I was happily guided by the machine, and was impressed by how silky the milk turned out. I didn't test the machine with plant-based milks, but there wasn't an option to adjust when making a cafe latte, for example, so you might need to freestyle the temperature if you're using anything other than dairy.

This machine is limited to the Original Line Nespresso pods, not the more luxe Vertua ones, but you could also use any Nespresso-compatible ones, too.

Value

Though it's an older machine, it's still retailing for around the original price of £529 on the official Nespresso website. It's, still, a lot of money for a Nespresso machine, especially when there's a Sage bean-to-cup machine in The Barista Express that only costs £100 more, full price. However, when it's on sale, as it is on Amazon right now, it's only around £360, which feels like a very good price for what you're getting.

Should you buy it? If you're a budding barista with a discerning nose for coffee, then maybe not. If you want something quick and easy to use, but that's going to uplift your basic coffee offering, this machine is something of a wonder. It's the sort of machine you can work without ever having to pick up the manual, which for some people, is what's going to happen regardless of which coffee maker you pick.

Sonos is a company probably best known for its superb multi-room speakers, which isn't all that surprising given that's what it has been excellent at offering for the last two decades. However, it's Roam range, most recently the Sonos Roam 2, showcases the more casual, 'lifestyle' side of the brand.

It wasn't until 2019 that Sonos added Bluetooth to its speakers, first in the Move that launched in September 2019 and later in the Roam that arrived in March 2021.

The company has since added Bluetooth to its non-portable speakers in the Era 100 and Era 300, as well as the Arc Ultra soundbar, but it was the Move and Roam that really put Sonos on the Bluetooth map. Both those speakers are now in their second generation, but while the Move 2 is a superb speaker, it's nowhere near as lightweight and portable as the Roam 2.

I've been reviewing consumer technology for over a decade, and I've reviewed every Sonos speaker and soundbar to launch since the Play:5 (Gen 2) in 2015. If you're looking for a Sonos speaker you can take out and about, as well as part of a Sonos multi-room setup at home, the Roam 2 is the one you'll want, but is there anything you should consider before investing? I'm giving it a thorough review, while also comparing Sonos vs Bose, as well as other portable heavyweights, like JBL.

Style

The Sonos Roam 2 is the smallest speaker in the Sonos line-up, but that's far from a criticism. Its compact build, around the same size as a 500ml bottle of water, makes it incredibly portable, so it's perfect for moving around your home, bringing to a picnic in the park, or popping in a suitcase for a holiday.

Comparing the Sonos Roam vs Move, it's significantly smaller, and it comes in more color options, too. Despite Sonos predominantly sticking to white or black only for most of its speakers — the only exceptions in the last decade being the Sonos One and HAY collaboration in 2018, the three extra colors added to the original Roam in May 2022 and the Green option of the Move 2 in 2023 — the Sonos Roam 2 arrived in five colors from launch.

All five have a matte finish that's very pleasing to the touch and the eye, along with a color-matched logo on the front. The logo element might seem like a small detail to mention, but the original Roam speaker had a white Sonos logo no matter what main color you picked, and the color-coordinated logo is much nicer from a design point of view.

The prism shape stands out from other Bluetooth speakers too, like the cylindrical JBL models and rectangular Bose options. The Roam 2 can also be positioned vertically or horizontally, featuring small silicone feet for stability when horizontal, and a silicone bottom when vertical. The top, when vertical, is also finished in silicone with physical controls that are nice and easy to operate, even when your hands are wet.

Sound Quality

Sonos didn't change the sound architecture when it updated the Roam speaker. The Roam 2, therefore, offers the same configuration as the original, but don't mistake that for a bad thing. The original was an excellent Bluetooth speaker, and this upgrade is worthy of the same attribution.

It handles the mid-range very well while still offering clear and detailed vocals, along with decent bass at the low-end, and the result is a great overall audio performance. This is a Bluetooth speaker that punches well above its weight, considering its size.

As with all Sonos speakers, you can adjust the EQ in the Sonos app when in Wi-Fi mode if you want to change the balance to your preference, and there is automatic Trueplay tuning on board to allow the Roam 2 to adapt to its environment and deliver the best possible sound without you having to do anything. For those familiar with Sonos, its traditional speakers have manual Trueplay tuning, enabling you to use your phone to tune them specifically to the room they have been placed in, but with the Roam 2 designed to move around more, the automatic element of this feature is welcomed.

The Roam 2 is surprisingly better at higher volumes than lower ones, so if you want plenty of detail inside, you might consider the Era 100 instead, which shines at lower volumes. For outside use, though, whether a garden party, BBQ, or day at the beach, the Roam 2 will hold its own. I mentioned you can opt for a horizontal or vertical orientation with the sound adapting accordingly, and while I think horizontal offers a wider soundstage, the Roam 2 is a great speaker, whatever and however you choose to listen.

Ease of Use

It's very simple to use, too, much more so than the original Roam. For the original, there was only one button on the rear of the speaker that powered it on and off, as well as allowed you to put it into Bluetooth mode. That was fine, but for the Roam 2, Sonos split that button into two, making it much more user-friendly.

It also means you can use the Roam 2 straight out of the box as a Bluetooth speaker, connecting it to your phone, tablet, or laptop as you choose, rather than having to set it up via the Sonos app. If you do use the app and set up the Roam 2 on your Wi-Fi network, however, you get a number of extra features, like Apple AirPlay support. You can add it to an existing Sonos system for multi-room audio, too, and that also means it benefits from many of the same features as a traditional Sonos speaker, such as support for over 100 music streaming services and seamless music playback via multiple speakers.

The physical controls on the Sonos Roam 2 are lovely and simple to use, with volume up and down, as well as a play/pause button. The play/pause button does a lot more than it suggests, however, not only allowing you to play and pause audio, but also skip tracks with a double press and go back a track with a triple press. If you press and hold it for five seconds (and you have other Sonos speakers), a feature called Sound Swap kicks in, which is exclusive to the Roam and Roam 2. This feature will send whatever you are listening to on the Roam 2 to the nearest Sonos speaker when you come inside.

There's also Sonos Voice Control for easy control of the Roam 2 using your voice, and this works when on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, while Alexa is also available, but you'll need to be on Wi-Fi for that.

Battery Life

Battery life is probably the main area where the Sonos Roam 2 falls down a little compared to its rivals. It offers 10 hours of charge before it needs plugging in, which is a couple of hours less than the similarly-sized Bose SoundLink Flex and around a third of the JBL Charge 6's 28-hour battery offering.

Charging is simple through USB-C, and there is a dedicated wireless charging dock you can buy separately if you want to keep the battery of the Roam 2 topped up when it's inside your home, for example. It means you will be able to pick the Roam 2 and take it wherever you want without having to worry if it has charge in it.

Unlike the Bose SoundLink Max, you can't charge your phone via the Roam 2, and there's no indication or warning on the Roam 2 itself to tell you what percentage the battery is at. You can use Sonos Voice Control to find out, or if you have used the Sonos app for setup, you will be able to see the battery level through the app when you are at home on your Wi-Fi network. The Sonos app doesn't work when you're not, annoyingly.

Value

The Sonos Roam 2 is the cheapest Sonos speaker available, priced at £179. That makes it around £20 less than the excellent (but not portable) Sonos Era 100 and around £10 more expensive than the highly-acclaimed JBL Charge 6, so in terms of value, it's in a decent position on the whole.

You not only get a great traditional Sonos speaker with the Roam 2 when connected to Wi-Fi, but a superb-sounding portable Bluetooth speaker when you're out and about. It doesn't float, and it doesn't come with any accessories or included handles to help carry it around, but they are minor grievances in an otherwise brilliant package.

The Sonos Roam 2's sound performance is excellent for its size, it's jam-packed with features (especially when connected to Wi-Fi), and if you already have a Sonos system, it's a great, versatile addition that allows you to bring your music wherever you go.

When it comes to portable speakers, there isn't a shortage of options out there. You'll find everything from small speakers that you can slip into a pocket if you want to bring music with you on the go, to larger devices like the Sonos Move 2, designed to be moved around the home but not necessarily taken outdoors.

The Bose SoundLink Max sits somewhat in the middle of those two descriptions. It's bigger than the highly-regarded JBL Charge 6 and the Sonos Roam 2, but it's smaller than the Sonos Move 2. This Bluetooth speaker comes with an interchangeable handle, making it easy to take with you, whether that's to the bottom of your garden or the beach.

Sitting at the top of Bose's portable Bluetooth portfolio, the SoundLink Max is larger and more expensive than both the newer SoundLink Plus and the older SoundLink Flex. I've been reviewing consumer technology for over a decade, and I've seen and heard more than my fair share of Bluetooth speakers – some are superb, while others are no better than what your phone can manage. How does the Bose SoundLink Max hold up, though, and does it justify its high price tag?

Style

It depends on what you're looking for from a Bluetooth speaker as to whether the Bose SoundLink Max will fit your style and the style of your home. It's more rugged than some other Bluetooth speakers available – the handle at the top with the rope detailing being the main reason for this – but it also has soft curves and together they make for what I think is a lovely overall design.

There are three color options, comprising of Black, Blue Dusk, and Citrus Yellow, with all featuring a short color-matched handle a standard, though that handle is swappable for a longer version you can buy separately to allow you to carry the SoundLink Max over your shoulder should you wish to. Switching the handles is simple too, requiring a quick twist and pull.

Bose branding is positioned centrally and subtly on the front at the top of the main speaker grille, while the smooth and soft-to-touch silicone finish of the rest of the speaker is broken up with smaller speaker grilles on the sides.

On the rear, there is only an Aux In port and a USB-C port in the bottom right corner, while easy-to-use controls sit within a trough at the top of the speaker, next to the handle. I said at the beginning of this review that the SoundLink Max isn't small, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's a substantial speaker in both size and weight, which makes it perfect for a garden party or a trip to the beach, but less recommendable for popping into a suitcase and bringing on holiday.

Sound Quality

The Bose SoundLink Max sounds excellent, and while it's not as small as I mentioned, its sound far exceeds its size, resulting in superb overall performance. It is bass-heavy out of the box, so you might consider adjusting the EQ settings through the Bose app if you prefer more subtle bass. The EQ settings give you the option of moving a slider for Bass, Mids, and Treble, though you can also tap on the “Bass Boost”, “Bass Reducer”, “Treble Boost”, or “Treble Reducer” buttons for a quick fix.

Whatever genre of music you enjoy, however, the SoundLink Max delivers an exciting, punchy sound performance that makes it a very enjoyable speaker to listen to. There's definition in all the right places, and it offers great balance so everything from dance tracks to the voices talking on the radio sound excellent.

It's got a lot more about it than the smaller SoundLink Flex, and, comparing Sonos vs Bose, it's louder and more impressive than the Sonos Roam 2, allowing it to easily fill a room or garden in much the same way the more expensive Sonos Move 2 can.

Ease of Use

The Bose SoundLink Max is lovely and simple to use, connecting to the same Bose app as the company's soundbars and headphones. It's very easy to set up – taking a matter of minutes – and Bose has a little fun with you in the process too, recommending no less than 15 quirky name suggestions for this Bluetooth speaker as an alternative to its standard name. Earth Shaker and Thumper were particular favourites of mine.

The app also gives you access to settings like EQ adjustments, as I mentioned, and allows you to program the physical shortcut button on the top of the speaker itself, though options are a little limited here. By default, the shortcut button will switch to Aux In, and while you can change that to launch Spotify instead, there’s no option for other music streaming services like Apple Music.

The physical controls on top of the speaker, which include that shortcut button, are easy to understand and satisfying to press, though, as well as easy to press if your hands are wet. There's multi-point Bluetooth connectivity so you can connect it to a couple of devices at once, and the Aux In port means you can quickly connect other devices like a CD player or turntable.

Where the Bose SoundLink Max misses out is its lack of Wi-Fi connectivity, which means it doesn't have features like Apple's AirPlay on board, or voice control from assistants like Alexa, both of which you will find on the cheaper Sonos Roam 2. There’s also no built-in microphone, so you can’t take calls through it, though that’s not a deal breaker. You can stereo pair two SoundLink Max speakers together, and Bose has a Party Mode that will allow you to group this Bluetooth speaker with other Bose portable speakers, should you have more than one and you’re having, well, a party.

Battery Life

The Bose SoundLink Max has a battery life of 20 hours, which is more than the likes of the Bose SoundLink Flex and the Sonos Roam 2, both of which will last around 12 hours, but it's less than you'll find in the JBL Charge 6 that boasts 28 hours and the Sonos Move 2 that boasts 24 hours.

It's still a decent number of hours, however, more than enough to see you through hosting a BBQ in your garden, or a day at the beach. That 20-hour claim is pretty much on the money in use, but in case you aren't listening in one stint, the Bose SoundLink Max will tell you every time you turn it on what the battery percentage is. That's more handy than you might initially appreciate as it means you'll know when it's running a little low and might need to be topped up before you bring it anywhere. It’s worth mentioning that if you crank up the volume however, the battery will deplete faster so do keep that in mind.

The SoundLink Max is charged via the USB-C port on the rear of the speaker, and it takes around five hours to charge it from flat to full. It can also charge your phone through that port should you have it out and about and you’re struggling to find a charger.

Value

The Bose SoundLink Max is currently priced at £399.95, by far the most expensive of the portable speakers we've talked about today. That is 60% more than the JBL Charge 6, and more than double the Sonos Roam 2, however, so think about what you want from your Bluetooth speaker and whether one of those cheaper options will be sufficient.

I would also recommend taking a look at the Bose SoundLink Plus, which comes in £50 cheaper at £249.95 if you are looking for something similar to the SoundLink Max but on a tighter budget.

For a Bluetooth speaker that's big enough to fill a garden with sound and easy enough to move around without feeling like you've done a workout, though, the Bose SoundLink Max is a superb option.

In the world of 'TVs that look like art', there has been one name that has monopolized the market for some time. However, with the launch of the Canvas TV, Hisense has become a challenger that's gathering some steam.

In reviewing the Canvas TV, with its sleek, ultra-thin body, super matte screen, and minimalist wall mounting, I'm aware that these so-called 'art TVs' inhabit a slightly different space than other TVs in the market. While reviews from serious TV buffs might find picture quality and audio lacking, if you're looking to buy this style of set-up, I'd hazard a guess that, like myself, style is a more prominent factor in your choice when television shopping, as long as the model you choose delivers good enough picture and sound quality (and we'll delve into those details a bit later).

Where Hisense's Canvas becomes a serious contender for the art TV crown is the price. While it's not a 'budget' set per se, it's on the cheaper end of the scale for designer-style TVs. By comparison, the Canvas 2025 retails on Currys at some £200 cheaper than The Frame by Samsung, both in 55" sizes.

Now, this review isn't totally a Hisense vs Samsung debate; however, given that both brands have TVs occupying this niche, it makes for an easy scale of quality. However, for clarity, any comparison I'm drawing is from the 2025 Canvas vs the 2024 The Frame (with the 2025 version having a lot of new features and improvements), as these are the sets I currently have in my home.

Does Hisense's Canvas TV Look Good?

Short answer: yes. Art TVs such as Hisense's Canvas tend to be uniform in the sense they have super fine bodies that aren't much thicker than actual picture frames. It has a minimalist wall mounting, which means it doesn't stick out more than a few extra millimeters, too.

Like The Frame, the Canvas has a matte display, which means less glare and fewer reflections in the screen, a necessity for making the art display mode look as realistic as possible.

Where, with Samsung's The Frame, you have to buy its magnetic frames, called Bezels, separately, the Canvas comes with a set of its StyleFrames inside the box. It's limited to teak-effect only right now, but realistically that's the best option anyway. The Canvas also comes with feet, if you don't want to wall mount, something that The Frame only offers through a separate-to-purchase floor stand. With how thin the Canvas TV is, though, I can't help but feel a little nervous around it as a freestanding TV in this way.

Let's talk art. Canvas does have a more limited selection of artwork and doesn't benefit from the same collaborations and events that Samsung has loaded into its Art Store. However, its 300-deep collection is free, though you need to sign up to the VIDAA art collection for most of it, whereas Samsung's full collection requires an extra subscription (though there's plenty for free). The art looks great on screen, but the collection is, necessarily, going to be to everyone's taste. You can, however, add your own pictures through a USB connection, and the likes of Etsy sellers even offer packages you can purchase.

Another drawback for Hisense is that it doesn't have the same 'invisible' cable connecting The Frame to its OneConnect box. That means, if you have the Canvas on the wall, you have a thick black cable to deal with.

Does It Have Good Picture and Sound Quality?

I'd read other reviews of this TV in anticipation of trying it, that suggested the screen brightness was an issue, however, I found this to not be the case (in fact, I often dim the brightness on art TVs to make the art setting look more realistic). The Canvas is a 4K QLED with Quantum Dot Colour. The screen is bright, colorful, and high definition, though I noticed some issues with the color banding, where gradients appear as distinct steps, rather than smooth color transitions.

The Canvas supports Dolby Vision, as well as HDR10+, and for gamers, it offers 144hz refresh rate instead of 120hz, though as our TV expert Alan Martin suggests, it's only a theoretical improvement: "[you] aren’t likely to notice unless [you] hook a PC up to it, as even the priciest consoles don’t offer many 120Hz experiences.

The Ultra Matte screen might be an idea introduced for the TV's art mode, but it's a gamechanger for watching TV on a sunny day regardless, and the TV uses an RGB light sensor to adapt the screen to the room, at any time of day.

The TV also boasts 2.0.2 surround sound, which feels loud and clear. It's not the most spectacularly rich sound I've heard from a TV, but it matches up with the competition.

Is the Canvas Easy to Use?

I set up Hisense's Canvas in, honestly, under 5 minutes, using a QR code to my phone, after downloading the VIDAA app. You could also use this app to link it up to your streaming platforms, which means you don't have to spend ages trying to input your email and password using an onscreen keyboard. You can also use it to easily play music, and show photos and videos from your phone's camera roll on the screen.

The app can be used to control the TV as well, though the (solar-powered but also rechargeable) remote is easy to use. It feels responsive, and there isn't lag (something you'll find some complaints about on older The Frame models).

I didn't, I'll point out, try the wall mounting system for this TV during my testing period.

Is It Good Value?

Whether you're buying it at the full price, or picking up a brilliant deal like the one on QVC right now, it's likely to be at least a few hundred pounds cheaper than its like-for-like competitor. And while the Canvas might not stack up to The Frame in every aspect, it can do some things better.

Sounds too good to be true? As our TV expert, Luke Edwards, told me, right now Hisense TVs are particularly good value. To get a foothold in the market, the Chinese brand is undercutting competitors such as Samsung and Sony, offering great value for good technology. Basically, you're getting a beautiful TV that's (arguably) worth more than you paid for it.

If you're a brand snob, you might still want to go for The Frame, but if value for money and good looks are your main criteria, this is probably the TV for you.

I love my coffee almost as much as I do interior design, and I also happen to live in a small flat, which means finding an espresso machine that ticks all the boxes (high-quality, stylish, and compact) is important to me. So, when I stumbled upon the De'Longhi Dedica Duo, I needed to know for myself whether I'd finally found my unicorn.

De'Longhi is a highly reputable name when it comes to the best espresso machines on the market. It's known for making appliances that are as easy on the eye as they are to use. And of course, for making high-quality brews. I've tested some of the brand's bigger machines (including the new De'Longhi La Specialista Touch), so I was interested to see whether size actually matters when it comes to coffee machines — can the more compact designs make an equally good cup of coffee?

The Dedica Duo definitely impressed me, and it's a solid choice for coffee-loving, small-space dwellers. But does it deserve top marks? Read on for my full review.

First Impressions

As soon as I pulled the De'Longhi Dedica Duo out of the delivery box, I was impressed. The sage green, matte finish is even better in person and instantly gained a five-star rating on style alone. It's slim, it's sleek, and it is the perfect appliance for anyone trying to make the most of a kitchen with less counter space.

Sage green is basically a neutral in the world of interior design, but if green doesn't match the rest of your kitchen finishes, the Dedica Duo also comes in rose, metal, and white.

However, my enthusiasm for this machine quickly faded as soon as I opened the instruction manual, which was all pictures and no clear instructions on how to actually set up or use the machine. My advice? Throw away the manual and open YouTube — De'Longhi has a whole 'How To' channel that is much easier to follow.

Testing the Machine

Now for the main event — testing the machine. Once I watched the videos and felt comfortable trying my hand at starting up the machine, the process was easy. The appliance comes with the basic (yet still quality) equipment you need, but if you want any extra accessories, like a tamping mat (like this one from Amazon that hooks over your counter) or ground brush, you'll have to factor that in as an added expense.

The espresso shot for each setting (double, single, and cold brew), came out perfectly with each test. So far so good...

But, when it came time to steam the milk, this is where things quickly went downhill. Not only was the milk steamer extremely loud, but it was also quite difficult to use. Frothing milk is a hard process in the first place (latte art is an art for a reason), but this is definitely not the machine to use if you are only just getting started on your coffee-making journey.

That being said, after a few attempts, it did get easier and many lovely cups of coffee were enjoyed. It might not have looked cafe-quality, but it still tasted it.

Quality of Coffee

As with all espresso machine, you will need to pull a few shots before getting one that tastes ideal and has the perfect crema top layer. But with this machine getting the perfect espresso was pretty much flawless.

I asked my local coffee supplier to grind the beans to a normal espresso size (usually an eight or nine), and the machine comes with a measure scoop so you know exactly how much to use.

If you want to use the cold brew setting, I recommend replacing the water in the back filter and giving everything a good rinse first, as used grounds can throw off the flavor.

Should You Buy the Dedica Duo?

So, the big question: is the De'Longhi Dedica Duo espresso machine worth the buy? Ultimately, I think the answer is yes. After testing it, I believe this is a well above average starter machine for anyone looking to upgrade their home cafe.

Not only is it one of the best-looking small espresso machines I've seen, but it also allows you to have that cafe-quality in a few easy steps and without all the fuss.

On the other hand, this is not the machine I would recommend if you're already quite experienced with coffee, and are wanted to perfect the art of milk-based brews. While it's great for beginners, the inconsistency of the milk steamer may not produce the seamlessly smooth milk you need for things like latte art.

If you have a larger budget, or more space in your kitchen, I'd go for a machine like the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch or the Ninja Luxe Cafe Premier instead. However, for someone like myself who is looking for their first espresso machine and lives in an apartment, the Dedica Duo is definitely going straight into my shopping cart.

If you're tossing up between a coffee maker and an espresso machine, the De'Longhi Dedica Duo definitely makes the argument for espresso machines.

Having worked in a lot of cafes over the years, I'm confident I can recognize a good machine when I see one. Does it look sleek on the counter? Does it pull a perfectly creamy espresso shot? As such, De'Longhi has long been a brand I've wanted to try, and the recent release of the La Specialista Touch machine (available on Amazon) just sealed the deal.

De'Longhi's reputation in the coffee world is for affordable machines that are easy to use for beginners, but that still offer a high-quality experience. I've tried and tested a few of the brand's smaller machines, but the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch comes with a bit more foot in the game. We're talking touchscreen control, personalized flavor settings, and much more. It's the brand's newest mid-range espresso machine, released in March this year, described as a semi-automatic bean-to-cup.

However, a high-tech machine often (and in this case) means a higher price tag, so as part of this review, I really wanted to compare it against some of the best espresso machines to see if it's actually worth the almost £700 investment. Here's how it went.

First Impressions

This machine was a beauty as soon as it was out of the box — people around the office even stopped to admire the sleek design; it's that good.

Now, I know chrome is a fairly common finish when it comes to kitchen appliance trends, but something about a chrome espresso machine feels particularly luxe. The only downside is its proneness to fingerprints, which I found myself frantically wiping from the second it was out of its box.

Its size is misleading in a good way as well. The machine is definitely bigger than something like the De'Longhi Dedica Duo (also available on Amazon), but if coffee is important to you, you could easily make room on your counter for the La Specialista Touch.

And if this stylish machine wasn't already getting a 10 out of 10 on first impressions, the box of extra accessories sealed the deal. Included with the La Specialista Touch machine are a ground stamping guide, a stamping pad, an espresso tray, and much more. Opening the box was like the gift that kept on giving.

Testing the Machine

I can't lie, I was a bit intimidated testing this machine, as the last thing you want to do is break the fancy appliance you just splurged on. Would a confusing instruction manual be enough guidance to get this machine up and running?

However, my worries soon faded because the La Specialista Touch could almost be considered self-sufficient. Once you plug the appliance in and turn it on, the touchscreen starts up with a step-by-step guide directing you from set-up to your first espresso shot and milk steam. Truly foolproof and perfect for espresso lovers who are still in the beginner category.

The smart coffee maker feature l was most impressed with was the grind weight technology. The machine had you input things like water hardness and coffee bean type so it could calculate the perfect size and brewing time for the perfect espresso flavor. If a shot came out too slow, the machine would let you know and make the necessary adjustments.

It is also extremely easy to clean — each part of the base tray is removable and washable, as well as with the portafiller and its parts. Yet, just like with any espresso machine, to really get a deep clean, you will have to get your hands dirty and start unscrewing things; it's part of the coffee maker care journey.

Quality of Coffee

With all this talk of how great the machine itself is, I of course have to make sure that the coffee itself is up to par. For this, I used the same beans the Livingetc office uses every day (I am well acquainted with this coffee, of course) to see how the flavor is impacted.

Though usually you need to make a few espresso shots, before the first good one comes out on a new machine, the espresso from the La Specialista Touch tasted lovely on the first round. The crema layer was consistent on every brew and enhanced the flavor of our office beans immensely.

When it's time to steam the milk, you can either steam it manually or the machine will do it automatically based on the drink you want. I was a bit suspicious of this, and I must admit, the automated latte milk had more of a cappuccino-level foam. Not ideal, but definitely something you could work around.

Should You Buy the La Specialista Touch?

So, do I think the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch machine is worth the buy? Yes, I do. The quality of this machine is well worth the price, as it's one of the easiest-to-use espresso makers I've tested recently.

Similar pieces, like the Sage Barista Touch espresso machine, may rank slightly higher quality and style, but you will also have to spend a couple of hundred more. So, it's worth deliberating on what you are willing to spend and what you are looking to get out of your espresso machine.

Being interior design-obsessed means I care about the style aspects as well. This machine may not quite hit the art sculpture coffee machine trend, but it definitely has a luxurious aesthetic and will look elevated on your counter.

Whether this is the right machine for you is a slightly different answer. If you have been considering an espresso machine for a while (beginners and former baristas alike), this is a fabulous first machine to invest in. However, you also need additional counterspace, or a dedicated coffee bar, in order to store it.

All in all, the De'Longhi La Specialista Touch is a high-quality appliance worth the price and perfect for any and all coffee fanatics.

I've got a fair bit of experience with bedding, so when friends or family ask me for some advice about what to choose for dressing their beds, I've got opinions to impart. Often, it comes down to things like whether they should go for linen sheets, and often, I'm not super sure that they should.

Linen is expensive, for one, but it's also quite coarse for the first part of its life cycle — I think its stiffness can be a bit of a shock to the system if you're not used to them. However, there's no denying they look great. It's great then, when you can find the best of both worlds from a bedding brand, and I think this is what Piglet in Bed's bedding offers with its linen blend sheets.

Taking the best parts of both linen and cotton bedding sounds good in theory, but there is always going to be compromises, so in putting Piglet in Bed's Ivory Kemptown Linen Blend Striped bed linen to the test, I wanted to see how it compared to both pure linen and pure cotton sheets I'd also been testing.

This is the first version of my Piglet in Bed bedding review you're reading, meaning it's been inspected, washed, and slept in for at least two weeks. This review will be updated a little later in the year, once the bedding has been used for a total of four cumulative weeks. It's important, especially for linen bedding, which tends to be a little coarser to begin with, and softens after multiple washes and uses.

Is Piglet in Bed's Linen Blend Good Quality?

Before sleeping in this bedding, I like to put it to the test by getting a little more hands on with the sheets.

Does it feel cool to the touch? This is actually a pretty good sign that the bedding will be breathable and help regulate your temperature. For this linen blend bedding, perhaps predictably, it did feel cool to the touch, but not as cool as the pure linen sheets, yet cooler than the cotton ones I tested.

I always think you can get a measure of quality by looking inside the sheets as well, both at the tidiness and the extent of the seam stitching. Neat, reinforced stitches are a good indicator of the best linen sheets — and suggest your bedding might have better durability.

For Piglet in Bed's linen blend bedding, I found the stitching was particularly neat; however, I did note that while the edge seam did feel sturdy and secure, there wasn't a reinforcing straight or chain stitch, as you'll see in some other bedding.

What else you'll find inside, however, is a nice surprise. Piglet in Bed's bedding has ties in the corner, so you attach them to the top of your duvet and keep it in place, to stop the duvet from shifting down and feeling lumpy. It's designed to work with Piglet in Bed's own British wool duvet, but I think you could easily sew a small loop to the top of your duvet if you wanted to make use of them.

How Is Piglet in Bed's Bedding to Sleep In?

I tested Piglet in Bed's linen blend bedding for two weeks, pre-washing before its first use, and between the first and second weeks. Just as a reminder, linen bedding is generally a little coarser to start with — this linen blend had the sense to a degree, but was noticeably less crisp and rough than pure linen sheets I had also tested after the first wash. By the second wash, it felt significantly softer and more comfortable.

In comparison to some of the linen bedding I'd tested, I found these sheets felt a little heavier and potentially less breathable. As a hot sleeper, I prefer linen that's a little lighter, especially during the hotter summer months (and this was partially tested in a heatwave with temperatures between 24°C and 18°C during the night). However, as a play off against the softness it provides, I think it strikes a good middle ground.

I usually make a note of how long it is before the bedding starts to feel 'saggy', as linen does after a certain amount of time being slept in. I'd say you would need to wash these bed sheets after around 7-8 days from that perspective.

The Piglet in Bed fitted sheet that matched the bedding was also pretty exceptional: strong elastic and deep — my two requirements to fit my big mattress. Having a sheet with good grip makes such a difference to your sleep, so it's always worth investing in a decent one in my opinion.

How Does Piglet in Bed Rank on Style?

Piglet in Bedding's style walks the line of rustic and humble, with luxuriously layered. Patterns like check, gingham and stripes, and a deep, rich color palette means there's a lot of scope to get creative with the brand's bedding offering.

What I'll say about this specific linen blend bedding is that it has a really nice level of the natural crinkle I love about linen, but that can go a bit too far with pure linen sometimes.

Is Piglet in Bed Bedding Worth It?

Let's get into the cost. Piglet in Bed's linen bedding runs at a similar cost to most other luxury linen blends such as Bed Threads and Secret Linen Store, however, its linen blend bedding offers a more affordable way in. A duvet in pure linen costs £169, while the linen blend is £139 — not a huge difference, but a fair amount over the cost of the entire bed set.

If you can't get on with natural linen sheets, but you love the look, these are the ones I'd suggest you try. They may not have all of the pros of pure cotton or pure linen bedding, but they're a nice middle ground that gives you, largely, the best of both.

If you had to ask me where to buy luxury bedding, one of my first suggestions would be The White Company. I've had sheets from this brand before, and always really liked them.

The White Company has a particular aesthetic, especially when it comes to its bed linen. The majority of its bedding is pretty classic, timeless, and generally white — but it's fair to say that for a lot of people, that's what color bedding should be. If you're one of them, then yes, The White Company is one of the best bedding brands for you.

For this review, like the other brands I've covered on Livingetc, I asked the brand to test their most popular bed sheets to get a sense of the general quality. In this instance, it was The White Company's Savoy Egyptian cotton bedding that I put through a series of tests.

This is the first version of The White Company bedding review you're reading, meaning these sheets have been inspected, washed, and slept in for at least two weeks. Here's how I rated it on style, comfort, and value, against the competition.

Is The White Company's Bedding Good Quality?

Before sleeping in this bedding, there are a few tests to put it through to get an indication of its durability. After all, bedding goes through a lot, and requires a lot of washing, so it needs to stand up to the task.

First of all, the touch test — the best bedding materials are cool to the touch (in any case, cooler than the air temperature), which suggests it will help regulate your temperature when you're sleeping in them. Cotton, generally, isn't quite as good as the best linen sheets at this, but The White Company's Egyptian cotton did feel almost as cool to the touch as the linen bedding I tested.

I also like to take a look at the stitching inside to get a sense of how much care has been taken with the manufacturing, and potentially how long these sheets will last. For The White Company, the stitching was neat — with two rows of single stitches. Other bedding tends to have strong overlocked edges, but this isn't really comparable to this particular style from The White Company, as the corded edges to the duvet and pillowcases stand in for these seams, meaning they're very tough and durable.

How Is The White Company Bedding to Sleep In?

There's no two ways about it, because these are Egyptian cotton sheets, they're exceptionally soft and comfortable. More so than other cotton sheets I've slept in recently, I could get the sense of breathability and air circulation when sleeping in them, and, as I was testing these across several particular hot summer weeks, I felt they were wicking moisture, something that's so important for hot weather bedding.

I also rate how good a fitted sheet is as part of a bedding review's sleepability — one of my biggest sleep bugbears is a fitted sheet that slips off in the night. The White Company has deep fitted sheets, including as part of the Savoy Collection, with strong elasticated corners that didn't budge. It was one of the best fitted sheets I've tested recently, perhaps only second to the Rise & Fall deep fitted sheet, which also had grips around the entire sheet band.

How Does The White Company Bedding Rank on Style?

I've never really successfully styled a bed with Oxford pillowcases, and I think I still need to work out the best way to make the pillowcases' flanges stand up better to look neat. The Savoy is a more classic style of bedding that won't be to everyone's taste, but looks elegant and expensive for the right home.

Of course, The White Company has a very limited color palette across its bedding (though for the Savoy sheets, there are a few different options for contrast cording). If you don't like white bedding, it might not be the store for you, but there's often something extra added to the design that elevates it beyond the everyday. The brand also has a few lines that do something slightly different with color and texture, including the Aria Stripe bedding, which channels the huge bedding trend for supersize stripes.

Is The White Company Bedding Worth It?

At £251 for a bedding set of a king-size duvet, two pillowcases, and a king-size deep fitted sheet, these Egyptian cotton sheets aren't your budget option. So, when weighing up whether they're worth the money, let's look at a few things.

Style: Buying into The White Company is partly about buying into a specific aesthetic: fresh, clean, wholesome, elegant, and elevated. In terms of its bedding, it does a very classic hotel style look, so if that's what you like, and you want to buy into a brand with some prestige, then yes, they're definitely worth the money.

Materials: Where else The White Company finds its value is that you're buying very good quality textiles. It's a 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton percale — a make up that makes it such an enjoyable bedding to sleep in. However, for contrast, M&S's Egyptian cotton bedding set would set you back just £94. It's a 230 thread count percale cotton (which I've not tested yet), but it's a fairly large price difference.

Would I buy The White Company's bedding? Absolutely. If you want a classic look, and great quality Egyptian cotton, this is where to shop for it.

Even before doing this La Redoute linen bedding review, the brand's sheets are something I already recommended to people. By reputation, I've heard that they're good quality, and though, initially, the price tag looks like a match for most of the best bedding brands' linen offering, there's something to keep in mind.

A full set of La Redoute's Linot bedding in king size will set you back around £260, but as this is La Redoute, you can pretty much always count on a generous discount being available that really makes these a great budget offering. At the time of writing, that discount is 40% with free delivery, meaning these sheets come in at around a cool £150.

Of course, a good price only matters if the quality stands up, and for La Redoute, I'd say it generally does. I put it through the same test I did the luxury bedding brands, and in many respects, it stands up to the competition.

This is the first version of the La Redoute Linot bedding review you're reading, meaning it's been inspected, washed, and slept in for at least two weeks. This review will be updated a little later in the year, once the bedding has been used for a total of four cumulative weeks. It's important, especially for linen bedding, which tends to be a little coarser to begin with, and softens after multiple washes and uses.

Is La Redoute's Linot Bedding Good Quality?

Before even putting it to the sleep test, I can make some observations by getting hands on with this bedding set.

First, the touch test — does it feel cool to the touch? This is a sign that, generally, it may help thermoregulate your body temperature if it feels cooler than room temperature. For La Redoute's bedding, it passed the test, though perhaps not as cool as others I tested (I noted Cultiver's linen bedding was the best for this).

Even the best bedding materials are prone to wear and tear, being regularly slept in, and because they need regular washing to keep hygienic and maintain their shape.

With that in mind, I always take a look at the stitching inside the sheets. Good, strong seams are the signal of the best linen sheets — not only for just care and attention given to them manufacturing process, but also how long, potentially, they'll endure.

The Linot bedding is a good example of good stitching, with strong edge seams and supporting chain stitch, which is a little bit stronger than the basic running stitch some, even luxury, brands use for their bedding.

I noticed a tiny bit of fiber shedding with these sheets, which you'll sometimes see with other linen sheets, sometimes not. It's not a huge problem, and pretty natural for this textile, but something worth noting.

How Is La Redoute's Bedding to Sleep In?

Full disclosure, there's a slight quirk with this product listing on La Redoute which I fell victim to. For its king size bedding, the brand offers two sizes: a king size at 230cm wide and one at 240cm wide. Not noticing, I accidentally bought the larger one, despite having a pretty slim, lightweight duvet. This meant my bedding didn't fit my duvet fantastically, but it didn't affect my enjoyment of it too much.

I tested La Redoute's linen bedding for two weeks, pre-washing before its first use, and between the first and second weeks. As a reminder, linen bedding is coarser to start with, and should, in most cases, soften after use and subsequent washes. I didn't find La Redoute's bedding too crisp for its first use, but I could definitely feel it starting to soften during week two.

I found the bedding in general to be quite a light linen, which suits me well as a hot sleeper, and part of my testing took place during a time when there was a 'heatwave' in the UK, with temperatures between 24°C and 18°C during the night. I felt it handled regulating the temperature well, even with the heat stacked against it.

It was hard to judge how susceptible La Redoute's bedding was to 'linen sag', where the bedding starts to lose its shape after sleeping in it, only because it was slightly oversized to begin with. From comparing other linen beddings I've tested, you'd need to wash these bed sheets after around 6-7 days for not just hygiene, but for them to regain their shape.

How Does La Redoute's Linen Bedding Rank on Style?

I was really taken with the look of La Redoute's linen — dired flat, it had a great natural crinkle, and I didn't really need to press it to get it looking how I'd like straight from the drying rack.

The brand mostly offers plain colors over pattern, though there is a simple striped version, and there's a pretty generous range of 20 different colors. Within that, it wisely leans more towards neutrals, think beiges, browns, softer shades of colors like pink and green — but there are a few brighter options, too.

Is La Redoute Linen Bedding Worth It?

We've already compared the costs, so you know that this is a good option if you don't have the budget for brands such as Secret Linen Store or Bed Threads. It looks great, and has a good amount of colorways to choose from, so there's no real reason to hold you back.

These are the sheets I'd invest in when you're making use of La Redoute's sale prices, however, I might be more tempted by the luxury brands if we're looking at full price, as these are actually a little more expensive, and maybe don't deliver on the luxury feel in quite the same way as the other brands are presented. You'll find a few more neps in the fabric on these sheets than the others mentioned already, for example. They add to the charm, but I'd go without them if I had the choice.

Rise & Fall is a brand that's been in my periphery for some time, but not one I'd ever bought from before. However, it's a cool, contemporary bedding with great styling on its website, so I wanted to explore more. Rise & Fall has some great reviews, and uses comparative pricing against brands such as The White Company and Bedfolk on its site, which makes it feel like you're getting a good deal on some good quality bedding.

Like my other reviews of the best bedding brands, I sought out one of Rise & Fall's best-selling bedding sets to get a sense of the quality. Its offering is divided in two: its Crisp & Cool bedding, and its Relaxed & Refined linen. Opting to review its organic cotton bedding, I'll be honest, I wasn't the most excited to try it out as part of my raft of reviews. It seems a little ordinary to begin with. Nicely packaged, yes, but your classic, hotel-style bedding in a cool, but smaller pool of color options.

However, when it came to the sleep test, I couldn't have been more surprised, and this was the bedding set I returned to quickest to sleep in again. At £160 for a Crisp & Cool bedding set in king size, it's competitively priced for the quality, but not inexpensive for cotton bedding.

This is the first version of the Rise & Fall review you're reading, meaning it's been inspected, washed, and slept in for at least two weeks. This review will be updated a little later in the year, once the bedding has been used for a total of four cumulative weeks, but in honesty, I'll have probably slept in these sheets a lot more before then. If the brand does the basics this well, I might well be heading back online to look at its clothing range, too.

Is Rise & Fall's Bedding Good Quality?

Before putting this bedding through the sleep test, you can get a sense of the quality by delving inside the covers.

The first test I undertake is the touch test, which gives a sense of how soft the fibers are, but also whether it's going to regulate your temperature properly when sleeping. The best bedding materials should feel cooler to the touch, or so they say. I tested Rise & Fall's Cool & Crisp cotton bedding in the same conditions as a raft of other bedding. In general, linen bedding felt cooler to the touch than the cotton examples, but this bedding still had a slight sense of cool to it.

At first touch, I felt like this bedding was a lot firmer and sturdier than other bedding I was testing. It's what I imagined is closest to good hotel bedding.

Next, I take a look at the seams inside the bedding. You can kind of get a sense of the quality of a bedding, and its longevity, by the care and attention used inside. For Rise & Fall, the seams felt strong and well-reinforced. They weren't the tidiest of all the bedding I tested at this time, but comparable to other cotton sheets such as those from The White Company.

How Is Rise & Fall Bedding to Sleep In?

I tested Rise & Fall's cotton bedding for two weeks, pre-washing before its first use, and between the first and second weeks. At the time of testing, the weather was warm, but temperate at night, around 14-15°C.

I didn't enter the sleep test for this bedding with any particular high expectations of these being the best bedding sets based on the touch test alone, but I found that the bedding was soft, felt good on the skin, and had a lightness to it that made it feel comfortable to be under.

I have a pretty deep mattress, so we often struggle with fitted sheets coming loose during the night, or at the very least, I'd have to re-fit the sheet every morning when I wake up. However, not only does the Rise & Fall fitted sheet feel comfortable to sleep on, it has a very strong elasticated band around it.

This band is rubberized, too, so it grips to your mattress, and it's extra deep, so also fitted comfortably around my entire mattress, keeping it in place. I didn't have to remake the sheet at all during the weeks I tested it, and I also found it kept my mattress protector in place, too.

If you look at the reviews on the Rise & Fall website, you'll see this fitted sheet often gets a shout out as one of the big pros of this bedding brand's offering.

How Easy Is Rise & Fall Bedding to Care for?

Cotton, in many ways, doesn't need as much care as linen throughout the weekly cycle of your sheets, and this set still felt pretty fresh by the end of the seven days.

This isn't, however, a type of bedding that looks great when not pressed, so I did spend time ironing before putting on the bed, even after drying it as flat as possible post-washing. It irons fine, but also creases quickly, so I found myself going back over it once the sheets were on the bed.

How Does Rise & Fall Bedding Rank on Style?

Some people won't do anything but, but I'm not a huge fan of a plain white cotton bedding. It might work in a hotel, but I feel it feels a little one dimensional in an everyday bedroom, and Rise & Fall's is a fine enough material that I could see the yellow tint of my duvet through it.

The brand, does, however, have a small selection of other colors to choose from in the cotton, including one ticking stripe. They're very modern and minimalist colors — this bedding feels like it lends itself to contemporary spaces, as there's not much in the way of frills or decoration. This, to be honest, is my style of bedding, and the colors on offer are pretty much as far as I'd stray from neutral bedding colors.

The brand also has a small range of blankets and cushions to finish off your bed. Think raw-edged cotton and linen and lumbar cushions for a minimalist bedscape. It's an even more curated range of colors and finishes, but a nice offering all the same.

The Finer Details

When you're spending this much on bedding, I think the finer details matter. So, how does Rise & Fall's rate on the parts that aren't a necessity for you to enjoy your bedding, but might sway you in this direction?

Packaging: All of Rise & Fall's bedding comes in its own branded drawstring bag. They look great and give you a way of storing the bedding neatly when cycling through the rest of your bedding.

The Button Test: These sheets have pretty standard clear plastic buttons and simple closings for the duvet.

It's also worth noting that the Manufacturing Process at Rise & Fall is meticulous and lists the material components so you know exactly what you're getting.

Is Rise & Fall Bedding Worth It?

Rise & Fall's Crisp & Cool bedding is expensive for cotton bedding, but it's one where you can feel the difference in quality when it comes to sleeping in it. This is a bedding set I'd invest in again, and plenty of reviewers attest to Rise & Fall's bedding quality, too.

It's also worth noting that, at £160 for a king-size, it is cheaper than many similar competitors, something the brand proudly highlights on the listings with price comparison. According to the site, a similar offering from The White Company would cost £244, and from Bedfolk would cost £254.

If it's still a little on the pricey side for you, you could always look at the next bracket down, cost-wise, with something like M&S Ultimate Cotton Bedding, which retails at around £89, or a brand such as Christy, which has an organic cotton bedding set for £98 in king size.

However, if you're going to invest in anything from Rise & Fall, I think this fitted sheet is one of the best ones I've reviewed. Deep? Check. Elasticated? Check. Good grip? Check. I'll definitely be buying some more of these.