Joanne

Posts by this author:

 Enchanting Evening – Why you need to experience TaylorMania!!!

Couldn’t get tickets to Taylor Swift’s Eras tour for whatever reason? Don’t you worry, Katy Ellis has got you with her version- TaylorMania. Lydia is obsessed with Taylor, her songs are playing all the time,…

View Post

Meaco 12ltr Platinum low energy Dehumidifier and air purifier

*I brought this product*

Having never owned a dehumidifier before, we had no idea what brand or model to go for. I just knew that we needed one; our house was starting to create mould spores from the humidity of the bathroom when the door was left open after a shower.

I bought this particular model on a whim, I didn’t know if 12 litres would be sufficient enough for what we needed and the other dehumidifiers were more money than what I wanted to spend. I have had the Meaco unit now for a year and I feel that I can give it a thorough review, especially as we have also experienced their customer service under the warranty.

It is also interesting to know that this unit doubles up as an air purifier and includes a free Hepa filter, additional HEPA filters cost around £29 for a pack of three, direct from Meaco.co.uk. We have not used the air purifier yet as we have a separate unit specifically for this. What I do know is that the air purifier is amazing for people with allergies & asthma.

We have a small bathroom with the main bedroom next door, the hallway and two more bedrooms. The Meaco unit lives within the bathroom most of the time and we found that it is excellent at drying our clothes, which saves us money as we are not using the tumble dryer. The unit also includes a child lock (hold the up and down button together for a few seconds).

Occasionally, we will pop the the dehumidifier on the landing or in the girls’ room if the bathroom door has been left open so that we can reduce the humidity which results in less mould spores growing.

Having a dehumidifier is amazing for drying our clothes, however, it is also fantastic for drying our carpets after I have given them a good clean with my carpet cleaner, the carpets are dry in less than an hour.

Using the unit is very easy to navigate

On the top there is a digital display which will tell you what the humidity is in the room as soon as you’ve turned it on; you can also set the dehumidifier to stop once you have selected and reached your desired range (this would be between 40-60%). We tend to turn it off around 49. The unit will also turn off automatically when the water tank at the back is full – the tank will hold 2.5l of water. You can remove this easily by pulling it out – I usually use it to water my house plants. You can also add a hose for continuous drainage if you want to, however, the hose does not come included.

I bought our Meaco dehumidifier from Appliances Direct, back in January last year when humidity in houses was at its peak. Due to stock issues, I did have to wait a few weeks for delivery but that is not the case now. My advice would be to purchase one in the summer, ready for winter, and take advantage of the offers.

After using the unit for quite a long time, the Meaco unit started to make a loud humming noise which vibrated through the floor. I contacted customer services online and had a response the next day: I explained what was happening and they asked me to provide a video and then sent me a form to complete, including proof of purchase. After this was all verified, I was sent a returns label and I shortly returned the unit to be repaired.

A few days later, I received an email saying that it was faulty beyond repair and they would send me a replacement within a few days. I received the new unit the very next day and everything has been great.

Do I rate this?

Absolutely. I am very happy with this product and I would recommend it to you If you are looking to purchase a dehumidifier. If you have a larger area to cover then I would buy the 20-litre instead.

Read more house reviews here.

4 toy tips for the kid’s room

*This is a sponsored post.

It’s super important to build a cool and stimulating environment for your kid, and one way to fix that is to think carefully about the toys for their room. From educational to creative toys, the choices are endless. In this piece of writing, we’re throwing at you four children’s room toy tips that will keep your little ones enthralled and entertained.

Educational wooden toys

Wooden toys have been a classic choice for children for centuries, and for good reason. They are durable, eco-friendly, and have a timeless appeal. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, wooden toys can also be educational. From alphabet blocks to puzzles, there are plenty of options to choose from that can help your child develop their cognitive and motor skills. One popular educational wooden toy is a shape sorter. This toy is usually just a wooden container with all the holes in different shapes, and then there are matching wooden blocks to put in it. Super simple, but totally fun! Not only does it help with recognizing different shapes, but it’s also good for solving puzzles and training hand-eye coordination. And check this out, another fun thing is a wooden abacus. With this, kids can have a great time counting and doing a little math. Really a hit!

Creative doll house

A dollhouse is a classic toy that can provide endless hours of imaginative play for children. Whether it’s a traditional Victorian-style doll house or a modern, minimalist one, there are plenty of options to choose from that will suit your child’s interests and preferences. Dollhouses can also be a great way for children to develop their storytelling skills and social interactions. One way to make a doll house even more engaging is by encouraging your child to decorate and furnish it themselves. You can provide them with miniature furniture, decorations, and even small dolls to populate the house. This not only allows your child to express their creativity but also helps them develop their fine motor skills and attention to detail.

Interactive STEM toys

STEM toys are getting hipper because parents want their kids to be introduced to those important subjects at an early age through play. There are so many cool STEM toys on the market that allow kids to fiddle with things like coding, robotics and engineering in a cool and interesting way. For example, a hit among STEM toys is a coding robot, a cute little robot that kids can mess around with by entering some simple codes. This not only allows them to improve their skills in problem-solving and logic but also gives them a little taste of the basics of computer programming. And hey, another super fun option is a science kit, which allows kids to do some nice simple experiments and learn more about the natural world around them.

Outdoor toys for active play

While it’s cool to have toys that get the brain working, it’s also important to have stuff that gets the kids moving. Outdoor toys like trampolines, swings or a playhouse invite little ones to go outside, have a good romp and work their muscles. A real favourite among outdoor toys is the playhouse, where kids have their place to run around and daydream. Whether you choose a classic wooden one or a modern plastic one, a playhouse is a great addition to any garden. Also, consider installing a sandbox or climbing frame as well to further fuel the climbing and scrambling fun.

Have A Great Night Sleep With a Simba Mattress

*We received the Simba Hybrid mattress in return for an honest review

When you think about it, we spend roughly a third of our day (for some of our teenagers, definitely longer) in our beds.

I am fortunate enough to get through thirty-six years of my life without having any back problems, for which I am extremely thankful, however, there are a large amount of people who do struggle with back and limb pain problems and dread going to bed at night because they just can’t get comfortable, my partner for one suffers with a thinned disc and has struggled for a while.

Leo, my eighteen-year-old son, has a physical disability called Cerebral Palsy which mainly affects his lower limbs and because of that, it also takes its toll on his posture. I had never really given much thought to mattresses and would just buy a standard one, layered with mattress toppers and the kids were usually fine.

Leo’s condition means that it affects his muscles and for Leo to function mentally and physically during the day it is vital for him to have a decent, good night’s sleep. As Leo is getting older, and growing, the changes to his body have meant that the standard mattresses we were getting were just not adequate, and Leo was complaining that it was becoming more uncomfortable for him, so we knew it was time to get him a good, high quality mattress, which would give him all the support for him during the night.

I am confident to assume that everyone has heard of Simba or knows someone who owns one of their award-winning mattresses, you only need to type Simba Sleep into a search engine and there are pages upon pages of good reviews to read through. But let’s talk about Leo’s review.

First of all, delivery was quick, within two days from the order, and the process was very straight forward. We were given details and updates all the way from the time of dispatch to the minute it arrived at the door. Leo has a single bed, so the mattress is easier to manoeuvre but I would still suggest two people being on hand to move it as is still quite heavy. The mattress comes rolled up and vacuum sealed so it is super compact in the box which did help to make it easier to move it on to the bed.

Once you open the sealed bag, the mattress expands instantly and fills the bed and the packaging information suggests leaving it for between 3-6 hours before sleeping on it. At time of arrival, we were able to leave it for about 5 hours before Leo needed to sit on it, as it does also double as his gaming location (for his console).

You do not need to flip this mattress over however, you will need to rotate it once a month for the first 3 months and then every 3 to 6 months but don’t worry too much about remembering when to rotate it because Simba will email you to remind you for the first 4 reminders. I love this because I am forgetful and I did forget until they emailed me to do so. I plan on setting an alert on my phone when the reminders stop.

I had to have a go on the mattress myself to see what it was like and I would say that the Mattress feels medium to firm, and since Leo started using his new mattress, he has had nothing but praise for it and looks forward to going to sleep at night (well, as much as any teenager would). However, he does wake up feeling good and his muscles do not feel as tight as they felt before with his old mattress.

We have had our Simba mattress now for around six weeks and in Leo’s words, “I look forward to going to bed and being comfortable. I feel refreshed in the mornings and ready for the day, it’s strange how having a decent mattress can impact your day so positively”, and he has certainly been noticeably happier waking up in the morning since the change. And as an added bit of information, if you use fitted bed sheets then I do recommend you buy a deeper sheet for a better fit.

Soft, breathable-cover
The soft, knitted sleep surface zips off for washing.

Simba offers a 200-night trial so you can give it a really good test before you decide if you want to keep it. That is how confident they are that you will love their product, they even come with a 10-year guarantee* How awesome is that?

You can also sign up for their newsletter and receive 15% off.

Brussels Delights: Experience Belgian Charm with Exclusive Holiday Packages

Sponsored post

Belgium, often referred to as the “Heart of Europe,” is a charming and picturesque country known for its rich history, stunning architecture, delectable chocolates, and, of course, its iconic Belgian waffles. Nestled at the heart of Belgium is the capital city of Brussels, a place where old-world charm meets modern vibrancy. If you’re looking for an unforgettable getaway, Brussels holiday packages offer an exceptional way to explore this enchanting city. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the various facets of Brussels and introduce you to exclusive Brussels multi-day tours that will make your visit truly memorable.

Discovering Brussels: A Glimpse of Belgian Elegance

Brussels, with its medieval streets, grand squares, and impressive architecture, is a city that oozes elegance and history. A walk through the city will lead you to iconic landmarks like the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its intricate baroque architecture and stunning floral carpet displays. The Atomium, a futuristic building resembling an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, offers an intriguing contrast to the city’s historical charm.

But Brussels is not just about its buildings; it’s also a paradise for food lovers. From world-renowned Belgian chocolates to savory waffles topped with an array of delicious toppings, the city’s culinary offerings are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Brussels Holiday Packages: Your Gateway to Belgian Bliss

To truly experience the magic of Brussels, consider opting for one of the many Brussels holiday packages available. These packages offer you the convenience of a well-planned itinerary, expert guides, and the chance to explore the city’s hidden gems. Here are a few highlights of what you can expect from these packages:

1. Guided Tours with Local Experts

Brussels multi-day tours often include guided walks led by locals who know the city like the back of their hand. These experts will take you on a journey through the historical streets, sharing captivating stories and insider insights about the city’s culture, history, and traditions.

2. Culinary Delights

Belgium is famous for its culinary heritage, and Brussels is no exception. Holiday packages frequently include visits to local chocolatiers, where you can learn the art of chocolate making and, of course, indulge in some mouth-watering chocolates. You’ll also get the chance to savor authentic Belgian waffles, freshly made and served with your choice of toppings.

3. Grand Place Illumination

The Grand Place is a sight to behold during the day, but it becomes truly magical at night when it’s illuminated with thousands of lights. Many Brussels holiday packages offer evening tours to witness this breathtaking transformation and capture some memorable photos.

4. Day Trips to Nearby Attractions

While Brussels itself is captivating, you can enhance your experience with day trips to nearby attractions. Explore the charming medieval city of Bruges, known as the “Venice of the North,” or visit Ghent with its picturesque canals and historic architecture. These side trips are often included in comprehensive holiday packages.

5. Comfortable Accommodations

Holiday packages typically include accommodations that suit various preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer staying in boutique hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, or luxury establishments, there’s an option to ensure your comfort throughout your stay in Brussels.

Customizing Your Brussels Experience

The beauty of Brussels holiday packages is their flexibility. You can choose packages that match your interests and schedule. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an architecture enthusiast, there’s a package tailored to your preferences.

Planning Your Brussels Getaway

Before booking your Brussels holiday package, here are a few tips to help you plan your trip:

1. Determine Your Travel Dates

Decide when you’d like to visit Brussels. Each season offers a unique charm, from the colourful blossoms of spring to the enchanting Christmas markets in winter.

2. Define Your Interests

Consider what aspects of Brussels and Belgian culture you’d like to explore. Do you want to focus on history, cuisine, or a mix of both?

3. Budget Considerations

Set a budget for your trip and choose a holiday package that aligns with your financial plan. Remember that different packages offer varying levels of luxury and inclusions.

4. Travel Insurance

Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance to protect your trip from unforeseen events.

In Conclusion

Brussels is a city that beckons with its irresistible blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. To make the most of your visit, Brussels holiday packages offer a convenient and enriching way to explore the city and its surroundings. Whether you’re embarking on a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Brussels has something for everyone. So, why wait? Start planning your Belgian escape and immerse yourself in the Belgian charm that Brussels has to offer. Your journey to the heart of Europe begins here!