logo
You be the judge: should my flatmate start using the spice rack I made?

You be the judge: should my flatmate start using the spice rack I made?

The Guardian17-07-2025
I haven't labelled the jars, but you can just sniff each spice and work out which is which
When my flatmate, Murad, and I moved into our new flat last year, I made us a spice rack. We've been friends for a few years and lived in another house before this, which wasn't as nice. The spice rack was supposed to symbolise a new beginning.
After the pandemic, I got into making things with wood, and thought the spice rack would be good for the kitchen, but Murad seems to hate it. I do care more than I probably should about it, but it's because we live in a shared flat with limited space and I genuinely thought the spice rack would be a helpful, practical upgrade. I even bought matching jars and arranged everything thoughtfully.
I haven't got around to labelling each jar, but I don't think it's a big deal. You can just sniff a spice to work out what it is. My sense of smell is great – maybe Murad is triggered because he can't smell things as well as me.
Instead of using the rack, Murad has taken over our cupboard with shop-bought jars and packets he's picked up in every shape and size, and it's chaos. Once, when I opened the cupboard, I had cumin spill all over me because he hadn't put the lid on properly, and that was really annoying.
Murad says we both need to take ownership of the way things are arranged in the shared cupboard, but it wouldn't have been me who left a jar of cumin hanging off the edge. I think his side of the cupboard is way more chaotic than my spice rack. Murad has created his own junk-shed of random spices, but his just have branded packaging.
I get that Murad wants me to label things, but life got busy. Plus, as I made the spice rack, maybe he could help with decanting and labelling? Meanwhile, we could make better use of the shared cupboard space.
Our kitchen is small and I don't think two sets of spices is economical. A flat isn't just a collection of solo zones, it's a compromise and requires teamwork. The rack isn't perfect, but with a little collaboration we could make it better.
I want ease and functionality. I don't want to try to solve a puzzle every time I make a curry
I cook almost every night and love to use spices, but Alex's rack is a mess – it has no labels and no logic, and I don't have a clue what's in each jar. I don't want to try to solve a puzzle every time I make a curry, so I buy my own spices and put them in my section of the shared cupboard.
Alex says I'm taking up too much cupboard space and don't empty my old jars. He also says the spices have fallen on him and spilled everywhere when he's opened our cupboard, but that's not my fault as it's shared, so he can't blame me for all the organisation.
I actually think he's hurt that I'm not using his DIY spice rack, but it's not personal. It just doesn't have everything I need and it's not clear what's what. I prefer shop-bought packaging as it actually has labels. It's not like I'm buying gold-plated saffron. It's just basic things that I use regularly.
I want to know that when I reach for cumin, I'm getting cumin, not a mystery dust. I don't want to have to sniff-test every jar. Alex may think it's fun to live as if we were in a Victorian apothecary, but I think it slows everything down and makes cooking, which I actually enjoy, feel frustrating.
I've brought this up before and said I'll clear out my shelf if he tidies up the spice rack. He always says, 'Oh, I'll label them soon.' But the labelling never happens. It's been months. How long am I meant to wait for the organisation to materialise?
I'm happy to share store cupboard staples, but not when it means playing Russian roulette with flavour. Alex needs to get his spice rack in order before I give up my shelf space. At this point, I want ease and functionality, but his spice rack creates chaos and confusion. I cook mainly for myself, but sometimes for Alex too. If he wants delicious, flavourful food he shouldn't police where I source my spices.
Should Murad use Alex's spice rack?
Labelling the jars would improve their appearance and spare Murad the tedious sniff test routine. In a spirit of collaboration, Murad could source some nice labels and Alex could write on them. If Alex's sense of smell is as keen as he says, it shouldn't take long.Kate, 68
It takes two to tango in a shared household, and Alex has warmed the new flat with a thoughtful, handmade spice rack. Since labelling is the main issue, would it be too much for Murad to curry some favour by filling the jars and labelling them himself?Patrick, 31
As someone who likes cooking and does it a lot, unlabelled jars would annoy me too. It is a nice effort from Alex to have made a spice rack, but surely labelling is not a massive job. Until the jars are labelled, the rack is not strictly finished, as it can't be used properly.Diana, 32
Both need to dial it down. Alex, make some nice labels – it'll be fun! Murad, if Alex doesn't label the jars, do it yourself. Masking tape and a Sharpie will do it – it may even spur Alex to upgrade it.L, 46
It's sweet that Alex made the rack but he needs to be less possessive over it. It's good to live and let live.Anice, 67
In our online poll, tell us if you think Murad should get on track with the rack?
The poll closes on Wednesday 23 July at 10am BST
We asked whether Lynsey should maintain a separate towels laundry policy
89% said yes – Lynsey is guilty11% said no – Lynsey is innocent
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

I'm a dishwasher engineer – the models to buy and cost £10 per year even if you use them EVERY day
I'm a dishwasher engineer – the models to buy and cost £10 per year even if you use them EVERY day

Scottish Sun

time12 hours ago

  • Scottish Sun

I'm a dishwasher engineer – the models to buy and cost £10 per year even if you use them EVERY day

Plus, expert tips on how to use your dishwasher properly IN A SPIN I'm a dishwasher engineer – the models to buy and cost £10 per year even if you use them EVERY day Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) BOUGHT the wrong dishwasher? You'll soon know about it. Instead of sparkling dishes, you might end up with streaky glassware, sky-high bills, and a heap of dirty cutlery. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Which? has revealed the best dishwashers to buy Credit: Alamy Even worse, some models end up needing fixing every few months, leaving you out of pocket. We spoke to the testing expert at Which? and two leading UK engineers to find out which dishwashers come out sparkling, and which ones will leave you with a sink full of regrets. The Which? verdict Andrew Laughlin is the Which? dishwasher expert, which means he's well-versed in how poor they can be. He said: 'Buy a bad dishwasher and you'll end up having to fall back on washing up by hand, or you'll have to run the dishwasher again, wasting more time, energy and money.' Which? tests dozens of dishwashers every year at its in-house lab, running thousands of dirty plates, glasses, cups and cutlery through each machine. Its experts dirty a range of crockery and cutlery, then score how well the machine cleans, how dry everything is at the end, and whether it leaves watermarks behind. It also checks how easy each machine is to load and use, tests how often the filter needs cleaning, and measures the energy and water used on both auto and eco programmes. Energy and water use are then turned into running cost calculations. Dishwashers that perform well in cleaning, ease of use and efficiency can earn both Best Buy and Eco Buy status. An Eco Buy could save you more than £30 a year in energy. Mum issues urgent warning to 'check fire alarms now' as she shows devastating results of running her dishwasher at night Best buys Miele G 7191 SCVi AutoDos, £1,048, Which? Score: 82% 3 This more expensive dishwasher is well worth the cash This top-of-the-line fully integrated dishwasher boasts automatic detergent dosing, ComfortClose door, Miele@Home connectivity, and whisper-quiet operation at just 43dB. It's rated B for energy use, consuming just 0.64kWh and 8.4 litres per eco cycle, with annual energy and water costs of around £66. This means it's not only efficient, but long-term affordable. It's currently available for £1,048 at Appliance Centre – a discount of over £500 off the RRP. Which? verdict 'Flawless cleaning. Although the price tag will put a dent in your wallet, this high-quality Miele will put a lean, mean, cleaning machine in your kitchen. "If you want a premium integrated dishwasher, look no further.' Pros - Flawless cleaning Cons - Nothing of note Bosch SMS4EMW06G, £549, Which? Score: 80% 3 This Bosch dishwasher came second in Which?'s rankings This freestanding Bosch model balances performance and features at a mid-range price point. It includes Home Connect smart features, SpeedPerfect Plus for faster washes, and Extra Dry for added hygiene. Rated C for energy, it uses 0.79kWh and 9.5 litres per auto cycle – working out to annual running costs of around £69.23, according to Which?. Available to buy at Which? verdict "Lean, mean, dishwashing machine. Although its price is rather high, overall this Bosch dishwasher is worth the investment. "It combines Best Buy cleaning and drying, with simple usability and Eco Buy efficiency.' Pros - Good cleaning Cons - Noisy Best to avoid Hoover HDPH 2D1049W-80 – £249, test score 39% This slimline Hoover model is one of the cheapest on the market – and unfortunately, one of the worst performing too. Which? verdict 'Avoid. A bargain this is not. It fails to clean everything, leaving dried-on dirt on many dishes. "If it was wonderfully energy efficient, we might be able to excuse this, but it's not. "It actually uses more energy than most (doing what, we don't know). "Add on that it's noisy and tricky to use, and we have no option but to make it a Don't Buy.' Pros - It's cheap (and that's about it) Cons - Really bad at washing, inefficient with energy CDA CDI6242 – £455, test score 43% This integrated, full-sized dishwasher may seem affordable, but its low Which? score and serious performance flaws make it one to avoid. Which? verdict 'This dishwasher cleans and dries so poorly we've made it a Don't Buy. As such, it's one to avoid at all costs.' Pros - good energy and water efficiency Cons - poor cleaning, dismal drying, noisy Which? expert tips for using your dishwasher properly Don't rinse the plates – Most dishwasher programs pre-rinse your dishes, so you won't need to waste water (and money) by running them under the tap. Don't bother with the detergent dispenser – Logic dictates that the detergent dispenser will release your dishwasher tablet at the optimum moment during the wash cycle. But you can just chuck it straight into the body of your dishwasher and not sweat about it. It will still work. Don't skip maintenance – That means topping up your rinse aid and salt, regularly cleaning the filter, and periodically maintaining other aspects of the machine, such as the spray arms and door seals. You should also leave the door ajar after a cycle from time to time, as this will circulate air into your dishwasher, stopping the build up of mildew, mould and bacteria. Stack like a pro – Stack plates and flat items facing inwards so they are well covered by the spray jets, while pots, pans, deep bowls and other such items should face down. Make sure no large items are placed in a way that will block the spray arm. Anything that needs harder cleaning, such as baking trays or pots and pans, goes on the lower rack where the water pressure is higher whereas more delicate items, including glasses, mugs and cups, go on the upper rack. The same goes for plastic items and containers, as well as large utensils. Leave enough space between items for the water and detergent to spread around – alternating larger and smaller plates in the rack will help with this. Watch out for spoons 'nesting' in the cutlery basket – when this happens, there's no space for the water to circulate. To avoid this, place some facing upwards and some downwards. Make use of the adjustable racks – The upper racks on most modern dishwashers are usually adjustable, meaning you can lower the rack to accommodate taller items, such as a long-stemmed wine glass. The engineer's verdict Steve Neale, founder of repair business The London Spin Doctor, has seen the worst of and dishwashers and warns that buying cheap, usually means buying twice, and more quickly than you might think. He said: 'If you buy a dishwasher for £200, it's going to last you less than five years. "If you spend around 400, 500, you should have the machine for at least 10." When it comes to picking a good machine, he said brand is important, as is ease of repair. He said: "Every machine in the world is going to break, but you want one that's cheaply repairable. That's the key. "So, I always recommend Bosch machines simply because they're quiet. They're really well-built and they're always repairable.' Steve's brands to buy: Bosch Beko (best on a budget) Neff Siemens Steve's brands to avoid: Indesit Hoover Candy Hotpoint AEG When it comes to upkeep, Steve said that many of the callouts he gets could have been avoided with better use. He said: '90% of the dishwasher repairs that I do are down to user error rather than mechanical failure. "Which means basically they've they haven't scraped their plates. So, for example, sweetcorn, eggshell, fish bones, chicken bones. "You have to scrape them off your plates because the dishwasher can't break those things down.' He added that another common is blocking one or both of the spray arms, for instance by having a long spatula poking through the top. This stops the dishwasher from cleaning properly. Key features to look for in a dishwasher Rado Domev, CTO at appliance repair company Domex, said choosing the right dishwasher for your needs is not just about brand – it's about smart features and long-term usability. For instance, he tends to recommend models with higher capacity. He explained: 'Full size dishwashers could vary from 12 to 16 place setting. Higher capacity allows you to wash more dishes per cycle, saving water and electricity in the long run.'. His other must-have features include: Half Load Option: A half load setting offers great versatility. If you only have a few items, you can run a smaller, more efficient cycle, avoiding wasted water and energy. Separate Cutlery Tray: Dishwashers with a separate cutlery tray at the top often provide superior wash results for your silverware. Plus, it frees up valuable space in the bottom rack for larger pots and pans. for larger pots and pans. Flood Protection: This is a crucial safety feature. Models with flood protection can prevent significant water damage to your property in case of a leak, offering peace of mind. What not to overspend on Rado warned not to obsess over efficiency ratings alone. He said: 'Don't let energy efficiency ratings be your sole focus. "While important, the real-world running cost difference between an A and B rated model might only be around £10 per year if used daily. "The upfront cost difference for a slightly more efficient model often doesn't justify this minimal annual saving.' He also recommended ditching models with limited wash programmes. He said: 'Avoid models with only 3 or 4 basic programs. "A poor choice of programs might force you to use longer, more intensive cycles for lightly soiled dishes, wasting time and resources. "Look for dishwashers with a variety of settings to match different cleaning needs.' Rado's top maintenance tips To ensure your dishwasher performs at its best and lasts longer, follow these maintenance tips: Always Use Dishwasher Salt : This is critical, regardless of the type of dishwasher tablet you use. Dishwashers require salt to regenerate their water softener resin, which prevents limescale buildup and ensures effective cleaning. : This is critical, regardless of the type of dishwasher tablet you use. Dishwashers require salt to regenerate their water softener resin, which prevents limescale buildup and ensures effective cleaning. Set Correct Water Hardness : Adjust your dishwasher's water hardness setting to match your local water supply. This optimises the performance of the detergent and softener. : Adjust your dishwasher's water hardness setting to match your local water supply. This optimises the performance of the detergent and softener. Regular Cleaning: Make it a habit to regularly clean the filters and degrease the appliance. This prevents blockages, maintains wash performance, and extends the life of your dishwasher. Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@ Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

State pension error means parents could be owed thousands
State pension error means parents could be owed thousands

Glasgow Times

time4 days ago

  • Glasgow Times

State pension error means parents could be owed thousands

In his latest update, Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis is highlighting a State Pension error which saw parents and carers who took time off work between 1978 and 2010 to look after children due £100,000 or more when they retire, known as Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP). The post says: "If you cared for a child or someone with a long-term disability between 1978 and 2010, you could wrongly have National Insurance gaps that reduce your State Pension. 100,000s could be affected, and while the Govt was contacting people, it isn't any longer - as highlighted by former Pensions Minister Steve Webb. Thus the onus is on you to proactively check. The impact can be huge." State Pension error! Did you take time off work (1978 to 2010) to look after children or someone with long term disability? You could be owed £10,000s Full help to check in... In brief: 100,000s wrongly have Nat Insurance gaps that reduce your State… — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) July 23, 2025 What is Home Responsibilities Protection? Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) was given for full tax years (6 April to 5 April) between 1978 and 2010, if any of the following were true: you were claiming Child Benefit for a child under 16 you were caring for a child with your partner who claimed Child Benefit instead of you you were getting Income Support because you were caring for someone who was sick or disabled you were caring for a sick or disabled person who was claiming certain benefits National Insurance credits for parents and carers replaced HRP from 6 April 2010. Who qualified automatically for HRP? Most people got HRP automatically if they were: getting Child Benefit in their name for a child under the age of 16 and they had given the Child Benefit Office their National Insurance number getting Income Support and they did not need to register for work because they were caring for someone who was sick or disabled If your partner claimed Child Benefit instead of you, you may be able to transfer HRP from a partner you lived with if they claimed Child Benefit while you both cared for a child under 16 and they do not need the HRP. If you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2008, you cannot transfer HRP. If you became a parent before May 2000, you may have Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) missing from your National Insurance record. This could mean you're missing out on State Pension payments. Check if you can apply for HRP below. ⬇️ — HM Revenue & Customs (@HMRCgovuk) May 19, 2025 HRP for caring for a sick or disabled person If you spent at least 35 hours a week caring for someone with a long-term illness or disability between 6 April 1978 and 5 April 2002, you may also be able to claim. They must have been getting one of the following benefits: Attendance Allowance Disability Living Allowance at the middle or highest rate for personal care Constant Attendance Allowance The benefit must have been paid for 48 weeks of each tax year on or after 6 April 1988 or every week of each tax year before 6 April 1988. If you were getting Carer's Allowance You do not need to apply for HRP if you were getting Carer's Allowance. You'll automatically get National Insurance credits and would not usually have needed HRP, but check - just to be sure. In a post on X, HMRC said: "If you became a parent before May 2000, you may have Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) missing from your National Insurance record. This could mean you're missing out on State Pension payments." For someone with 13 missing years, who lives for another 20 years, it can be worth as much as £100,000 or more in State Pension payments. Recommended reading: If you were a foster carer or caring for a friend or family member's child You can also apply if, for a full tax year between 2003 and 2010, you were either: a foster carer caring for a friend or family member's child ('kinship carer') in Scotland All of the following must also be true: you were not getting Child Benefit you were not in paid work you did not earn enough in a tax year for it to count towards the State Pension Married women or widows You cannot get HRP for any complete tax year if you were a married woman or a widow and had chosen to pay reduced rate Class 1 National Insurance contributions as an employee (commonly known as the small stamp), or you had chosen not to pay Class 2 National Insurance contributions when self-employed

State pension error means parents could be owed thousands
State pension error means parents could be owed thousands

South Wales Argus

time4 days ago

  • South Wales Argus

State pension error means parents could be owed thousands

In his latest update, Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis is highlighting a State Pension error which saw parents and carers who took time off work between 1978 and 2010 to look after children due £100,000 or more when they retire, known as Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP). The post says: "If you cared for a child or someone with a long-term disability between 1978 and 2010, you could wrongly have National Insurance gaps that reduce your State Pension. 100,000s could be affected, and while the Govt was contacting people, it isn't any longer - as highlighted by former Pensions Minister Steve Webb. Thus the onus is on you to proactively check. The impact can be huge." State Pension error! Did you take time off work (1978 to 2010) to look after children or someone with long term disability? You could be owed £10,000s Full help to check in... In brief: 100,000s wrongly have Nat Insurance gaps that reduce your State… — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) July 23, 2025 What is Home Responsibilities Protection? Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) was given for full tax years (6 April to 5 April) between 1978 and 2010, if any of the following were true: you were claiming Child Benefit for a child under 16 you were caring for a child with your partner who claimed Child Benefit instead of you you were getting Income Support because you were caring for someone who was sick or disabled you were caring for a sick or disabled person who was claiming certain benefits National Insurance credits for parents and carers replaced HRP from 6 April 2010. Who qualified automatically for HRP? Most people got HRP automatically if they were: getting Child Benefit in their name for a child under the age of 16 and they had given the Child Benefit Office their National Insurance number getting Income Support and they did not need to register for work because they were caring for someone who was sick or disabled If your partner claimed Child Benefit instead of you, you may be able to transfer HRP from a partner you lived with if they claimed Child Benefit while you both cared for a child under 16 and they do not need the HRP. If you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2008, you cannot transfer HRP. If you became a parent before May 2000, you may have Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) missing from your National Insurance record. This could mean you're missing out on State Pension payments. Check if you can apply for HRP below. ⬇️ — HM Revenue & Customs (@HMRCgovuk) May 19, 2025 HRP for caring for a sick or disabled person If you spent at least 35 hours a week caring for someone with a long-term illness or disability between 6 April 1978 and 5 April 2002, you may also be able to claim. They must have been getting one of the following benefits: Attendance Allowance Disability Living Allowance at the middle or highest rate for personal care Constant Attendance Allowance The benefit must have been paid for 48 weeks of each tax year on or after 6 April 1988 or every week of each tax year before 6 April 1988. If you were getting Carer's Allowance You do not need to apply for HRP if you were getting Carer's Allowance. You'll automatically get National Insurance credits and would not usually have needed HRP, but check - just to be sure. In a post on X, HMRC said: "If you became a parent before May 2000, you may have Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) missing from your National Insurance record. This could mean you're missing out on State Pension payments." For someone with 13 missing years, who lives for another 20 years, it can be worth as much as £100,000 or more in State Pension payments. Recommended reading: If you were a foster carer or caring for a friend or family member's child You can also apply if, for a full tax year between 2003 and 2010, you were either: a foster carer caring for a friend or family member's child ('kinship carer') in Scotland All of the following must also be true: you were not getting Child Benefit you were not in paid work you did not earn enough in a tax year for it to count towards the State Pension Married women or widows You cannot get HRP for any complete tax year if you were a married woman or a widow and had chosen to pay reduced rate Class 1 National Insurance contributions as an employee (commonly known as the small stamp), or you had chosen not to pay Class 2 National Insurance contributions when self-employed

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store