A Mini Makeover - Savvy Shopping

I've always headed straight to the big department and DIY stores when it comes to home improvements, but I was recently set a challenge by Debt Free Direct to see how the homeware products from my local supermarket compare to the big brands when it comes to price and quality.

Although we are having a new bathroom fitted in late June, it has been looking a little dull of late (especially with the horrendous wallpaper which I'm desperate to get rid of) so a mini makeover was in order. After all, nobody likes guests visiting when rooms are rather uninviting!

I decided to swap the plain plastic hand wash bottle for a shiny Disco Ball Dispenser (£8) and Disco Ball Soap Dish (£5), adding my favourite Rockstar Lush soap in there too to provide some variety. The dispenser is fairly heavy weight and the lid is easy to unscrew to add your hand cleaning liquid

Top Tips - Starting Uni

This time next year Minxy and I will be visiting secondary schools and selecting which she will be attending. It's a big step, one that I've been really dreading as a mum, as it's the end of an era with her growing up into a young lady and becoming more independent.
Where did my baby go!?

It got me thinking even further into the future and the idea of her heading off to uni - what advice would I be able to provide when she does eventually leave home to begin a journey, by herself, in further education...

• Learn how to cook and clean before you move out as mum and dad won't be around to clear up after you and make your meals. Living on fast food is expensive and unhealthy so definitely not the way forward. Try to ensure you know how to create a few dishes and take advantage of the freezer so there is always something available if you are short on time.

• Try to live on a budget before you leave home so you are aware of how much you need each week, and keep a note of what you spend. You may be surprised by where your money goes but it's the best way to work out if and where you need to cut back. Your social life will have to come second to the essentials like bills unfortunately so make sure you can afford them!

• When selecting your university be sure to visit a variety and when you have chosen your favourite ones return a few times if possible to get a proper feel for it. You will be there for several years so you need to be certain that it's right for you. The same applies to the accommodation - you need to make sure it is suitable and that you will be happy living there. Take someone close with you for their opinions and try to speak to other students and visit the local area too. 

• Get some info on student bank accounts and see how you you can make the most out of student life with great discounts and even a fee free overdraft. Every little helps. You will need an account before you receive your student loan so make sure you open one as soon as you have your place confirmed at university. It may be worth getting a part time job so investigate what is available in the area before you move as other students will be seeking work also.

• Think about transport. If you are taking a car where will it be kept, will there be parking fees and will you be risk becoming everyone's taxi! Look into buses and train routes and see if you can receive reduced passes. Also try to work out when you will be going home and how you will be getting there and back - you need to make sure you will be able to move everything you need.

• Think about what you will need and stick to it. Some universities supply items that will be required so investigate before purchasing things like bedding, bins and ironing boards. Also check what is and isn't allowed - some items are not permitted!

• It's natural to be apprehensive, and feelings of joy combined with worry are normal. Just remember to reach out to family and friends if you need a helping hand with moving, finances or anything at all as that's what they are there for. Seek support if you need it, never be afraid to ask. Most importantly enjoy yourself!

What tips do you have for someone starting university?

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Saving the pennies

Although February has only just begun it won't be long until Spring arrives, the clocks go forward and we will be booking time off to jet away into the sunshine. Money doesn't grow on trees unfortunately so going away does take a little organising in terms of finances, saving and arranging your break. These top tips will hopefully help you to pop the pennies away ready for your trips.

Shop around
When it comes to fuel, insurance, broadband and other monthly outgoings, you may be able to save some money by using price comparison websites. The same applies with your food shopping, look about for the best deals available and any money spare you can put away towards your well deserved holiday.

Managing debt
If you have a credit card ensure that you have the best APR or switch to one with 0% interest if you can, even if it's for a limited time it can still save you a lot of money. Alternatively, some loans can be cheaper and easier to pay back so it may be worth investigating how your bank can help.

Swap your mobile
You may like to browse the internet on the go and text friends regularly, but if you need to cut costs swapping to a Pay-as-you-go mobile may save you a small fortune.

Question yourself
If you are anything like me there will be items in your wardrobe that you have thought were a bargain but remain unworn with tags still attached. Before buying things ask if you really need it and if you don't, step away!

Look for discounts

If you are away for a weekend, off to the cinema or visiting a theme park, there are usually ways around paying full price. Look online for discount vouchers and codes to save you money.

Cancel memberships
Do you really go to the gym that often? Do you watch enough movies to make your subscription worthwhile? If not cancel your package and put the pounds towards your getaway instead.

Change how you travel
If possible, use your legs or cycle when you can to save money on fuel and travel expenses. If the shop is a 5 minute drive it won't take long to walk instead and with ever increasing petrol costs it will save you more than you expect over a few weeks.

Sell your unwanted items
If you don't want something rather than tucking it away on a shelf or at the back of a drawer sell it. It will reduce clutter in your home and make you some money in the process.

Book last minute
When you do have the money saved up for sun, sea and sand try to book last minute if you can for super savings and to cut the cost of your holiday. Look for last minute flights on cheapflights.co.uk to see if you can find a bargain!

What tips do you have to save money?