Instead of using newspaper for packing, purchase rolls of 12-inch bubble wrap for layering plates. Half a dozen plates at a time can be packed then placed in plastic bags. Protective cushioning can be provided by shredded paper in plastic bags tied at the top to keep them airtight but with just the required amount of air inside for the required space. On arrival at your new home, dishes can go directly into cupboards without the need for washing, and the clean-up is simple.

Also, here's a tip for your garden: Plant your tomatoes in old tires by laying them in the ground to a depth of 10 centimetres. The black rubber absorbs heat and the shape of old steel-belted radials help trap water. They seem to keep insects and weeds at bay, too.

To get rid of slugs, there is no need to use salt which is not good for plants and seems a bit too labour intensive.  Take two tablespoons of lemon ammonia in one litre of water and spray this concoction on the slugs on wet mornings or evenings.

Soak eggshells in water overnight and use the water to water your plants. They will grow healthier.

You can also use diluted left over tea to water your plants. Tea grinds from used tea bags can be put in your garden to enrich your soil.

Just before entering the shower or bath, lightly rub a little bar soap in a square on the mirror. Gently rub the soap marks into the mirror with a towel (you should still see faint streaks from the soap). When you step out of the shower, you will have a clear square on the mirror where the soap has been. Use your towel to clean the entire mirror.

Not only will you be able to see yourself clearly, you will never need special mirror cleaners again.

This really works. Have you been peeling onions all day? The odour on your hands will not come off, no matter what you do? Simple solution: Run your hands under the cold water. Then run your hands down the tap a couple of times.

The metal in the tap takes away the onion odour. Try it. It works.