July’s genius problem solvers
Clever finds and fixes for smooth summer holidays
Whether you’re entertaining friends and family or simply relaxing in the sunshine, make the most of your outdoor space this summer with these clever finds and fixes
THE STORE-ALL BOX When the rain showers hit, tuck away your garden furniture into this must-have chest. Its removable front panel makes for hassle-free storage. ROWLINSON WOODEN GARDEN STORAGE CHEST IN HONEY BROWN, £149, CUCKOOLAND.
THE EASY CLEAN CLOTHS Pretty up your outdoor table while protecting it from spills by covering it with a neat wipeclean oilcloth. MOORLAND TAUPE; HESSIAN BLUE; BEES LINEN, FROM £14, WIPE EASY TABLECLOTHS
THE INSTANT SPRITZER Quench your thirst for fizzy water and reduce your plastic bottle consumption at the same time, by investing in an Eighties classic – the Sodastream. SPIRIT IN WHITE OR BLACK, £100, SODASTREAM
THE BALCONY SHADE Keep the sun at bay and target the shadows perfectly with Ikea’s clever Ramso parasol, £8. It attaches to your railing so you can move it around to exactly where you need it.
THE HOME BREW KIT Keep ale experts happy with a beer-making kit. Each one produces around 4 litres, and refill mixes will set you back just £14. BREWDOG PUNK IPA BEER MAKING KIT, £40, SOUS CHEF
THE HANGING HEATER This neat heater will warm up an outdoor space in no time. HANGING COPPER OUTDOOR HEATER, £165, COX & COX
THE PORTABLE WINE BAR Whether in the garden or picnicking in the park, keep your wine bottle and glasses safe from spillages with this ingenious table. OUTDOOR MINI WINE TABLE WITH WINE GLASS HOLDERS, £25, LAKELAND
THE PARTY MULTITASKER A table that doubles as a drinks cooler? That lights up after dark? With a tabletop that lowers into the base for easy storage? What’s not to love? KETER IILUMINATED COOL BAR TABLE, £99, KALEIDOSCOPE
THE OUTDOOR AQUARIUM
If you fancy a water feature, the stylish Hozelock Cyprio aquarium, £259 (H70xw95xd95cm), takes a mere half hour to build – with no digging or tools. Lights and fountain also available.