Reds and pinks often bleed colour in the first few washes, so do them separately or with other reds. To test for colourfastness, wet a small hidden patch and press an old white cloth against it. If the dye transfers, wash separately!

If you’re camping this summer and using a portable gas cooker, cover every inch you can with tin foil to cut down on cleaning.

You’re meant to be on holiday, remember!

If you’re fond of bath oils and body products, your bathroom drain probably gets blocked now and again. Enzyme cleaning sticks will see to that: friendly bacteria contained in them dissolve fats and soapy residue. Pop one down your plughole monthly to keep drains free-flowing. £7.99 for 12 from Lakeland.

Use your vacuum’s crevice nozzle to work deep into carpet pile – this restores it to the upright position and will extend the carpet’s life.

For marks on black patent leather shoes or a handbag, sponge with a mild soapy solution. Test a less visible area, say the back of the heel, and if you’re happy, sponge the whole surface down without overwetting.

Putting a salad together but not quite enough ingredients? Go to the garden: both nasturtium flowers and leaves (which are really peppery!) are lovely and delicious additions.

If you have a rotary drier, it’s a good idea to apply a spot of 3-in-One oil to the moving parts every few months. If rust develops, rub down to the bare metal with wire wool and apply a coat of outdoor paint.

Always searching for the remote control? Fix a strip of Velcro to the back of it, another to the side of your coffee table, and with luck you’ll never lose it again!

Do you often wake up with a blocked nose? Rather than a cold, it could well be down to a dust mite allergy. Vacuum both your mattress and under the bed often, and wash bedlinen at 50 degrees. Use anti-allergen covers on pillows.

Treat your washing machine nicely and it will repay you. Check the filter from time to time, removing fluff and stray coins – it’ll be less likely to flood the floor.