Present wrapping for me was previously impossible without metres of cellotape. These are some of my plastic tape replacements this year: Various twine, and an alternative tape, made from compostable paper and coated on one side with glue that simply needs moistening to stick, just like what you find on the edge of an envelope….

Solution, – apart from re-using wrapping saved from last year I won’t use paper wrapping at all. Why not use cotton fabric sold on the roll at the market, cut to the lengths of my choice? Some of the end of rolls were only £2 per metre in Boyes 100% cotton fabric wrapped with string and…

Its of no surprise to me  the  festive season is   responsible for a massive surge in the amount of plastic that gets thrown away. This year I have set myself the challenge of finding out if its possible to have a Christmas without buying stuff wrapped in plastic.  I would like to encourage you reading…

Occasionally I love the treat of a chocolate truffle, if only they could find a way to ditch the plastic film and tray. Until they do, here’s my home made, inexpensive, but quite delicious alternative. Why don’t you give it a try this weekend. Peanut butter truffles are very easy to make at home, with…

When browsing the local supermarket deli counter yesterday I was reminded that the only way they sell potato salad is in clear plastic tubs which go straight in the bin. Potato salad is one of those side dishes that pretty much goes with anything in my view, particularly nice with smoked or cooked salmon, or…

My Ocean Saver cleaning pods and Teapigs tea bags have arrived today, packaged in cardboard. For the bathroom and kitchen cleaner simply dissolve a single pod in an old spray bottle with 750 ml water and you’re away. The floor cleaner pod instructions are confusing though as on this box it says dilute in 750…

My good friend Steph kindly bought me a plastic free set of hand made soap, shampoo, conditioner and moisturiser from Cosy Cottage for my birthday in September. The moisturiser is absolutely bril and has a wonderful scent. The conditioner is concentrated and a little goes a long way. I have just opened the hand soap,…

Thanks to my very good friend Steph’s comment (see below under vinegar) I went to Sainsburys today. To my delight I came across this: An Aladins cave of herbs n spices in little glass jars and metal lids at the very nice price of £1 per jar. Hooray for Steph! It just goes to show…