Shopping guides & ideas

Door mats for rainy days: clearance before colour

Compare door mats for winter: measure the door swing and include the thickness of the backing.

Shoe racks for winter boots: count height as well as pairs

Compare shoe racks for winter: measure the tallest footwear you actually store, shelf depth and the clear walking route beside the rack..

Bedside tables for winter evenings: match the mattress height

Compare bedside tables for winter: measure the mattress top, available width and the space a drawer needs to open.

Curtain poles: check brackets before the festive refresh

Compare curtain poles for winter: record window width, room for the curtains to stack back, bracket projection and any obstruction from handles or radiators..

Picture frames for Christmas photographs: order by aperture

Compare picture frames for winter: measure the actual print.

Wall clocks for a guest room: think about sound

Compare wall clocks for winter: mark the proposed diameter on paper and view it from the bed or doorway.

Cushion inserts: match the cover and the filling

Compare cushion inserts for winter: measure the cover seam to seam when flat and check the maker's recommended insert size.

Rug underlays: match the floor before the rug

Compare rug underlays for winter: measure the rug and check the supplier's recommended inset from its edge.

Bedside organisers: check how the pocket is supported

Compare bedside organisers for winter: measure the gap beside the mattress and the clearance to drawers.

Coat hooks for visiting guests: allow room around each hook

Compare coat hooks for winter: measure coat length and the width available.

Bath mats for winter mornings: drying matters

Compare bath mats for winter: measure the dry floor area outside the bath or shower and the door clearance.

Shower curtains: measure the drop and the enclosure

Compare shower curtains for winter: measure from the rings to the desired lower edge and across the opening, allowing the fullness advised by the supplier..