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Telegraph
19-05-2025
- General
- Telegraph
The best secateurs for pruning your garden, tested, with expert advice
Novice gardeners and experienced horticulturalists are united in their search for the best secateurs (otherwise known as pruning shears) with a steel blade. They should be capable of snipping at delicate plants to encourage growth, harvesting fruit and vegetables and hacking away at thicker branches – everything short of trimming and strimming. A simple enough purchase to make, you might think – until you start looking and quickly learn secateurs come in different shapes and sizes. Brands including Niwaki, Felco and Kent and Stowe all have different offerings and prices range from around £20 for pruning snips, up to pushing £100 for a powered pair. Then, even if you don't opt for expensive electric secateurs, you must still choose between bypass, anvil and ratchet mechanisms. More on that in our FAQ section below. To help, we've reviewed the best secateurs on the market and sought expert advice on commonly asked questions. If you're in a hurry, here's a quick look at my top five: The best secateurs: At a glance How to choose the best secateurs How smoothly the contraption can be manoeuvred one-handed will impact the efficiency of your green-fingered endeavours. Just make sure you invest in a quality product – which means good, sharp steel. The sharper the blade, the stronger the cut and the less force is required, which makes it gentler on the wrists, says topiary expert Darren Lerigo, who runs the Modern Mint online tool and gardening shop. If the blades can be sharpened, all the better. Investing in strong steel has a second benefit: it circumvents the need to buy 'ratchet' secateurs, which use an extra spring and cut through a branch in stages. Ratchets do make cutting easier on the hand, but they add more moving parts and therefore introduce more scope for things to go wrong. How we test secateurs We tested every pair of secateurs on this list in our gardens for a couple of weeks each, rating them on the quality and sharpness of the blade, how easy they were to use and how comfortable the handle was to hold. We tested them on thick rose bushes and weaker twigs. Read on to see how they compared. You'll also find a few words from some gardening experts on why particular pairs are their go-to. If you're interested in more gardening equipment, we also have guides to the best lawnmowers and best leaf blowers. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best gardening product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. All opinions are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. The best secateurs of 2025 1. Best Buy Secateurs: Okatsune 103 secateurs The Hitachi Yasugi high-carbon steel of these Okatsune secateurs stands out, producing a clean, efficient cut. Apparently, they're made with 'Izumo' iron sand, which was used in the manufacturing of ancient Japanese swords. The unusual red and white colourway shows yet more attention to detail: the red shows up in daylight, the white at night, making them harder to lose in the garden. There's less cushioning in the handles, so the experience of pruning feels more precise and direct. The flickable open-close latch mechanism is so simple to use that even a gloved hand doesn't struggle with it and it means I don't end up all fingers and thumbs dangerously close to the blade. In fact, you don't even require fingers to open them: you can simply hold the secateurs in your hand and brush the catch against your leg or hip – forwards to unlock, back to lock. They make me feel in control, which is pleasing. I'm not alone: Topiary expert Danny devoutly describes his chosen make of Japanese secateurs, Okatsune, as a bit of kit that Marie Kondo would approve of: simple, effective and capable of sparking joy, time and time again. And The Telegraph's gardening expert Bunny Guinness has described them as 'life-changing, so sharp, so well made – they have done me prouder than any other make I have owned.' Key specifications 2. Best Value Secateurs: Wilkinson Sword RazorCut Comfort Bypass Pruner No comprehensive guide to secateurs would be complete without referencing Wilkinson Sword: as well as Felco, these are some of the most ubiquitous, lower-budget pruning shears found in the UK. I was reasonably impressed: they come with a 10-year guarantee and are made with fairly good quality SK5 Japanese steel blades. The cast aluminium handles are strong and lighter than many others (they weigh 216g in total) and the grip is fine. I didn't mind the open and close mechanism too much either: you just flick down the small switch by the side of the blades (be careful not to get your fingers too close, mind) and a spring between the handles bounces open. When closed, the safety lock keeps you protected from the sharp blades. However, while they promise the standard 20mm cutting capacity I've come to expect from many brands, the reality is more like 15mm. Fine for a cheap pair of secateurs, but not a product that's likely to last you a lifetime. Key specifications 3. Best Japanese Secateurs: Niwaki GR Pro Secateurs Leading pruning specialist Jake Hobson learnt the craft of tree training, pruning and rootballing in rural Osaka and founded Niwaki (it means 'garden tree') to bring Japanese techniques to Western gardens. Known to Hobson affectionately as his 'double yellows', the bright yellow Niwaki GR Pro secateurs are made with KA70 carbon steel; they're a 23cm long pair of whoppers, weighing 239g. They didn't disappoint. The bypass design has a simple, chunky catch at the bottom, just like the Okatsune. Niwaki also sells hand-sewn leather holsters with copper rivets in which to store them. They can both be cleaned the Japanese way with odourless, non-oily camellia oil and also with a ' Crean Mate ' – a scouring block for cleaning resin, rust and other gunks from blades. According to gardening writer Anna Pavord, Hobson has 'the eye of an artist' and as a result, his loppers – in particular these limited edition S-Type secateurs – are a work of art in themselves. The only reason the Okatsune pruners pipped them to the post here is because of the price. But I'd highly recommend both – it just comes down to aesthetics. Key specifications 4. Best Hard Wearing Secateurs: Felco No.2 The sharp blade of these Felco 2's (first manufactured in 1948) proved well-suited to the most unruly of shrubs and the thickest of tough branches, but also the most delicate of stems and plants. I found the rubber cushioned, shock-absorbing, forged aluminium alloy handles to be gentle on my wrists, with a slick bypass cutting action. These are secateurs to have and to hold until death do you part: they come with a lifetime guarantee and the cutting blade is replaceable too. In fact, all the parts are, including the replaceable anvil blade with a sap groove, which helps prevent the cutting blades from sticking together after repeated use. Clever. Just make sure you don't lose them. As much as I wanted to love them and despite the superior, precise blade, the catch mechanism used to open and close them is fiddly compared with its smoother competitors. It's nearly impossible with gardening gloves on or one-handed, up a ladder, because the clasp requires a thumb to be operated. I also found that my own hands were slightly too small for them. This is a supremely solid all-rounder, nonetheless: the company claims its products are subject to 100 quality control processes, so whether I'm tending a pruning a lone rose bush or have an entire vineyard to tend to (one day, one day), they're clearly of a quality which should stand me in good stead. Talking of roses, this is the go-to pair for Chris Lowe, nursery manager at David Austin: 'Although not the cheapest, they are the most reliable and hard wearing. Cheaper brands don't stay sharp long enough and are not up to the daily pruning of the thousands of rose bushes we have here. They're simply the best.' Key specifications 5. Best Electric Secateurs: Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Secateurs RY18SCA-0 Electric secateurs such as these are a wonder as they require little force in achieving precise cuts at the mere press of a trigger. It's unlikely that you will experience muscle fatigue. I felt as though I could prune all day long, putting in minimal effort to cut both soft and hard branches. There's even a fast function which moves the chrome-plated steel blades every two and a half seconds for maximum efficiency. With its rechargeable battery (either included or available separately, depending on the bundle), the secateurs can make over 2,000 cuts with a single charge (and up to 5,500 if you opt for one of its most powerful batteries). The handle is easy to grip, but it's not adjustable, which may pose an issue for the smaller-handed gardener. The power tool is lightweight and well-balanced, though, making for a pleasant user experience. I'd still recommend wearing gloves for comfort, but Ryobi has designed an ingenious holster, making it easy to keep them close by as you move about. Matching safety glasses are also available. I enjoyed the bright yellow design and Ryobi's reputation as an innovative power and garden tool manufacturer was backed up by my positive experience. The cordless secateurs seem perfectly well-made and durable, come with a blade cover and arrive thoughtfully packaged in 75 per cent recycled cardboard packaging. Overall, I had fun gardening with these. Key specifications 6. Best Left-handed Secateurs: Opinel Secateurs Opinel is a chic French knife and tool brand worth having on your radar. Design-wise, I like the combination of steel and beech wood. Cunningly, these secateurs also have three positions to fit the diameter of the branches and the size of the hand (wide opening, narrow opening, closed). The cut is clean and effortless. The stainless steel blade has a cutting capacity of diameters of 20 mm – less than the Felco and Okatsune secateurs, but more than the Wilkinson pair. The USP is how light these secateurs are. Weighing just 65g, it's the only pair sub 200g (apart from the ultra-lightweight Fiskars Snips). However, I found the lack of weight (and quality) slightly compromised their performance. The locking latch is a little clumsy and the overall design could be more sturdy. Key specifications 7. Best Secateurs with an Adjustable Handle: Gardena B/S XL A big selling point of these affordable Gardena secateurs is the 'infinitely adjustable' handle opening width, which means they should suit the size of any hands and cut a wide range of objects. Made with fibre glass, it's also grippy and ergonomically friendly, while an integrated spring (that's hidden to protect it from dirt) reduces the manual force required. In fact, pruning with them feels easy, unchallenging and gentle on my wrists. The bypass blades are great for taking on fresh wood with larger diameters and stronger branches and twigs. The two of them (one is non-stick coated and the other made of rust-proof stainless steel) glide past each other, ensuring a precise, clean cut. They should suit anything – from cut flowers to branches and thick twigs – with a diameter of up to 24mm. There's a useful single-hand safety lock for storage and a 25-year warranty, which demonstrates the tool's hard-wearing design. Key specifications 8. Best Secateurs for Hardwood: Kent & Stowe Eversharp Anvil Secateurs If you're faced with a lot of mature, hard or dead wood to cut back, the extra sharp high carbon steel blade promises to help (Kent and Stowe claims it's 50 times harder than any other blade). There's an integrated wire cutting notch, too and an AcromaPro coating (used in aerospace, apparently) to offer unparalleled wear resistance and thermal stability. Independent tests by CATRA (the Cutlery & Allied Trades Research Association) have reinforced this, showing that the Eversharp blades used have the sharpest, most long-lasting, frictionless and anti-rust design on the market, staying sharp for twice the length of others If that alone doesn't sell you, note I liked the comfortable, rubbery feel of the adjustable handle and found the adjustable anvil design easy to use on a wide range of branches and twigs (it goes up to 20mm). All my cuts were precise. I'd agree that they feel stronger and more effective than your average pair of secateurs. The tools are made in the UK and have a 10-year guarantee, so I'd happily use them regularly. Key specifications 9. Best Secateurs for Small Hands: Burgon & Ball Sophie Conran Secateurs These are striking aesthetically: entirely silver, with a simple golden bronze lock clasp to clip the handles together when not in use. They're 20cm long and arrive presented in a pretty gift box. The secateurs are also designed with small hands in mind, something that can be hard to find. Mechanism-wise, these have a chunky style I prefer, making them the easiest to control on this list. The stainless steel handles mean they're markedly resistant to rust. 'I have been known to abandon my tools in the garden as I rush off to do something else, leaving them at the mercy of the elements,' explains designer Sophie Conran. But, they're unfortunately let down by the lack of grip, which rendered them almost unusable when it rained, as they just slipped through my fingers. If you like the idea of these, however, I'd also point you in the direction of the rest of Conran's stunning collaboration with Burgon & Ball. Key specifications 10. Best Long-Reach Secateurs: Darlac 650mm Snapper The difference between loppers and pruners is that pruners can be used one-handed. So secateurs are a type of pruner. But is this two-foot pruner a type of secateur? We're going to say yes, because we're using it for the same kind of jobs. With a two-foot reach, the Darlac Snapper is great for snipping twigs and stems that are just out of reach, whether at the back of a thorny shrub or through a tangle of delicate new growth. It's slim enough to reach through small gaps and you can adjust the angle of the head to cut vertically, horizontally or at an angle. In March, it made short work of dead-heading a buddleia and in September, it was good for collecting fruit. You can adjust the head so that it locks closed on a stem but doesn't cut it, meaning you can pull things towards you and do other useful things in areas you can't reach. You can get longer versions of this tool – Spear & Jackson makes one that extends to two metres and Fiskars makes a four-meter one – but this is the one to get if you want a nimble secateur with just a bit of extra reach. Key specifications 11. Best Lightweight Cordless Secateurs: Stihl ASA 20 Cordless Electric Secateurs This was the second pair of electric secateurs I tried and it's only the slightly higher starting price that made me place them further down my list. The blades can be set to two different opening widths, catering to branches of up to 25mm in diameter. You can speed up the pace as needed and the OLED display on the side of the tool tells you the blade setting selected, the battery level (it took 70 minutes to fully recharge) and how many cuts it has done (like the Ryobi tool this does up to 2,000 cuts per charge). The trigger is situated on the handle; the blade closes as the control lever is pressed and then immediately opens when the lever is released. This felt intuitive to use from the get-go. It's easy to grip and press the trigger at the same time and my hands didn't tire at all. The mechanisation of the secateurs reduces the manual force required to a negligible amount, making them great for anyone with grip issues. While pretty hefty, they weigh less than one kilogram, fitting my hands comfortably and ergonomically, so are suitable for extended use. They made everyday garden maintenance feel simple, fast and enjoyable. The results were precise too. When using electric secateurs, it's important to be aware of safety: wear the goggles and gloves provided with the tool, plus sturdy boots or shoes, and tie back long hair. Be careful with maintenance too: when you have finished using the ASA 20, you should always remove the battery and clean with a soft cloth. Don't use a damp or wet battery and avoid using them in hot or cold temperatures. A plastic blade guard is included. Key specifications 12. Best Pruning Snips: Fiskars SP13 Micro-tip Pruning Snips Score: 8/10 We like: Their precise blades and lightweight design Reviewed by Pete Wise I have been using this incredibly useful and versatile pair of 'snips' for years. They're brilliantly designed for delicate pruning tasks, combining lightweight construction (four grams) with long blades (relative to the snips' overall size) that cut right to the points. They're good for reaching in among dense plant matter to cut out a certain leaf or deadhead a particular flower and are also effective for flower arranging, giving you a degree of precision that's often lacking in heftier secateurs. One thing you can't use these for is cutting thick stems, especially woody ones. The blades aren't designed for it and they're not strong enough, so attempting to cut a thick or tough branch with them is likely to lead only to damage and disgruntlement. The handles of the SP13 are comfortable with a slightly moulded shape. Their catch ably secures the blades in a shut position and is easy to slide open. Both the catch and the tensioning spring that holds the blades open are lightweight, but they've lasted me well so far. They come with a small plastic protective sheath that should be slid over the blades before you store the snips. You can usually pick up these snips for about £10, give or take a few pounds. Key specifications Best secateurs FAQs What are the different types of secateurs? Secateurs either use a 'bypass' or 'anvil' mechanism. Bypass secateurs are similar to scissors, with two blades that glide past each other. They're suited to caring for delicate, living plants and saplings, as well as fully grown shrubs. A good, sharp pair of bypass secateurs should cut through thicker branches and solid wood too. Anvil secateurs, on the other hand, make a 'crushing' action, like a knife on a chopping board. They should only be used on thick branches or for dead wood, as the cutting blade comes into compressing contact with metal, which can bruise the plant tissue. Slightly less popular are ratchet pruners, which are more powerful and better for cutting through thicker branches. They require less pressure on the handles because they have small springs and mechanisms to ease the efforts. Ratchet secateurs are an excellent option for gardeners lacking wrist strength. According to topiary expert Darren Lerigo, most gardeners will find bypass secateurs to be the better bet, because they make for a cleaner cut. How do I care for the blades of my secateurs? Smooth blades all have their limits, says Niwaki's Jake Hobson. Steel is hard and sharp, but it can chip if abused. Try not to cut wire, metal, stone, plastic or any other hard material. Even bamboo fibres and some hard woods, especially knots, burrs and dead wood, can damage steel edges. Do not twist or apply uneven pressure: try to cut branches diagonally, not straight across. Blades may chip or crack through misuse and bad luck, although damage can be ground out with a file. Clean the blades after use, oil them with a light oil occasionally (Darren is a fan of scentless camellia oil) and store with blades closed to protect them (and you). How do you sharpen secateurs? Sharpen with a whetstone. Leave the whetstone in water for about five minutes until soaked through, then gently rub a blade against it to sharpen. What do I do if the blades of my secateurs jam and the stems get caught between them? According to Telegraph gardening expert Helen Yemm, secateurs usually jam because of a build-up of dried sap and general garden grot on the blades. A good clean, followed by a wipe with an oily rag, sorts the problem out. Alternatively, it could be time for a thorough service, she says: ' Burton McCall, which only services Felcos, no other brand, will send them back looking like new for £30, with a replaced blade.' What are electric secateurs and are they worth it? 'Some secateurs have batteries that can assist with cutting, which gives you added power when you need it,' says Huw Richards, a permaculturalist, gardener, Garedena ambassador and bestselling author. 'When the tool's intelligent sensor detects resistance when cutting, the integrated motor will switch on and offer up to five times extra power. For people who suffer from arthritis or anything similar, secateurs with motors can help you to carry on gardening, avoiding fatigue.' According to Graham Smith, MCIHort, a gardening expert from LBS Horticulture, electric secateurs are a great alternative to manual secateurs. 'Electric secateurs can be used to cut branches up to a few centimetres thick much faster than if cutting by hand and they can be used in the place of loppers so that you do not need to switch between tools. Although they can be more expensive, electric secateurs are worth the cost if you have a large amount of regular pruning to carry out in your garden. ' There's still a place for traditional secateurs, however, according to Phil Ellwood, who distributes manual Opinel secateurs in the UK: 'The idea behind electric secateurs is to make the process 'effortless'. But if you look after your manual secateurs, then they will absolutely do the job, no effort required – and won't need you to keep an eye on the charge or make sure you have enough batteries in the house.' What is the difference between secateurs and pruners? 'There isn't a difference between secateurs and pruners – you can use the terms pretty interchangeably,' says Huw. Is WD40 good for secateurs? 'WD40 is a good option for maintaining your secateurs. It can remove rust and debris and will make sure they last longer in your shed,' says Huw. Check the maintenance guidance beforehand, however, as there may be other steps you can take to care for them.
The Guardian
16-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Guardian
Warm weather essentials: 42 ways to make the most of the sunshine
We know better than to take good weather for granted, especially with a weekend approaching. So with the forecast set to fair, it's time to get outside (before it inevitably starts raining again). The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. Whether you're planning a picnic in the park, an impromptu camping trip or a gardening session, we've rounded up some of our bestsellers and the warm weather essentials you've loved to help you make the most of the sunshine. Spear & Jackson Razor Advantage bypass secateurs £18.95 at Tooled Up£7.99 at Amazon There's still plenty of time to get your garden ready for summer, and investing in a great pair of secateurs will help you make light work of any tough stems. Our gardening expert Matt Collins chose this Spear & Jackson pair as his favourite budget pick in his roundup of the best secateurs, finding them simply designed and hard-working. Niwaki hori hori knife £29.66 at Sarah Raven£32 at Burford Garden Co Amateur and professional gardeners alike can't get enough of the Niwaki hori hori gardening knife. Whether you're digging, cutting, weeding or planting, this versatile tool was one of your favourites from our summer gardening guide. The Cradley deluxe green watering can £55 at Haws£58 at Amazon Now that watering the plants is a daily activity, why not treat yourself to a beautiful new watering can? This classic style from Haws is an avid gardener's dream, with a long spout to help you reach deep into flower beds. Summer wildflower collection, five packs of seeds £4.99 at Suttons£3.89 at Amazon Grass lawns get a bad rap, but it is possible to make them greener, as Matt Collins shows in his guide to creating a more eco-friendly lawn. Why not make your garden a haven for nature with a bee-friendly mini meadow? Lay down turf for an instant transformation or sow summer wildflowers into the bald patches of an existing lawn. Bird watching book £14.99 at the Guardian Bookshop£8.98 at Amazon Next time you're sitting in the park or garden, take some time to appreciate all the wildlife that crosses your path. Birdwatching can be a great mindfulness activity, and this illustrated book will help you identify all the species you spot. For more ways to clear your mind, check out our guide to screen-free activities Kärcher K 2 Classic pressure washer £90 at Argos£89 at Amazon If your outdoor space is still looking a bit messy after winter, take advantage of the sunny weather by giving your patio, driveway or garden furniture a good clean with a pressure washer. The Kärcher K 2 Classic was rated the best budget buy in our expert reviewer Andy Shaw's roundup of the best pressure washers. Outdoor LED table lamp £75 at Burford Garden Co£79 at Heal's Add a bit of ambience to warm summer nights in the garden with this rechargeable outdoor light. It has a nifty handle for hanging and three different light modes: neutral white, warm white and candle-style flickering. For more, check out our guide to the space-saving tricks that make small spaces feel bigger Octagonal tassel parasol £149.99 at Daals If you'd rather relax in the shade than catch some rays, this lovely boho-style parasol comes in various patterns, printed either on the top or underneath. This one has the print on the bottom, meaning the pattern shouldn't fade in the sun – plus, you can enjoy it while sitting underneath it. Shade sail £15 at B&Q This shade sail is a versatile way to provide respite from the sun, even in the smallest of spaces. Royalcraft Venice bistro garden table and chairs £148.99 at Robert Dyas£199 at Marks & Spencer Level up your alfresco dining with a classic bistro set. This lovely table and chairs, available in olive green or cream, would suit even small spaces because they can be folded and stored easily. Merchant & Found is also a great place to find vintage bistro sets. Elevate your outdoor space with our pick of the best garden furniture Belkin BoostCharge 10k with integrated cable £24.99 at BelkinFrom £24.99 at Amazon A warm weekend is the perfect time to schedule a last-minute camping trip. Keep all your battery-powered devices topped up with our expert reviewer Pete Wise's favourite budget pick from his roundup of the best battery packs. Strawberry and pineapple kombucha £4.25 for 4 x 330ml cans at Ocado£29.99 for 24 x 330ml cans at Hip Pop Intune CBD drink £6.25 for 4 x 250ml cans at Ocado£18.75 for 12 x 250ml cans at Amazon Picnics in the park need not lead to a pounding head by 5pm. We've got plenty of alcohol-free options in our roundup of the best tinned drinks, from award-winning kombuchas to refreshingly fruity CBD sparkling drinks. Recycled stainless-steel water bottle From £35 at Ocean Bottle£35 at Ryman Keep your drinks cool on the go with this insulated water bottle made from recycled stainless steel. And each sale of an Ocean Bottle funds the collection of 1,000 plastic bottles that would otherwise have been destined to end up in the ocean. Sport Shield liquid roll-on chafing protection £17.99 at Decathlon£19.99 at Amazon Create a barrier between you and any unwanted friction burns with marathon pro Kieran Alger's go-to anti-chafe cream, whether you're going for a gruelling run or just walking to a picnic. For more, check out our guide to marathon essentials Boules set £30.99 at John Lewis£31 at Argos Get the kids outside and have some fun with this classic lawn game, which has been having something of a resurgence. Paddling pool £29.99 at B&Q£35 at Argos When it's sweltering outside, a paddling pool can keep the whole family cool and happy. This 9ft rectangular pool is sure to keep the kids entertained. Wooden quoits garden game £25.26 at Amazon Whether you're having a summer party, barbecue or a quiet weekend at home, this wholesome garden game is great fun for all the family. It's also easy to pack up and take to the park to keep the kids entertained for hours. Lékué ice cube tray £17.50 at John Lewis£19.99 at Lakeland Treat yourself to an ice-cold drink with this handy ice cube tray. The lid doubles up as the ice tray, and the sleek design makes it great for entertaining. It was also a bestseller from our guide to gifts we buy on repeat, so it would make a lovely present for a loved one or yourself. Rechargeable fan £12 at John Lewis Whether you want to keep cool while at home or on the go, this fan has you covered. It's small enough to be portable, and its handle doubles as a stand to make it a desk fan. Monster ice lolly mould £12.99 at John Lewis£12.99 at Lakeland This lolly mould is a wholesome pastime and a fun way to keep cool. Get the kids involved with creating some inventive flavours, and reap the rewards after a few hours in the freezer. Sandstone Red Pembroke stripe linen blend duvet cover From £139 at Piglet in BedFrom £139 at John LewisPillowcases £45 a pair at Piglet in Bed£45 for a pair at John LewisFitted sheet From £89 at Piglet in BedFrom £109 at John Lewis Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion We asked experts for their advice on what to look for when buying bedding, and linen was recommended as great for hot sleepers. 'Linen wicks moisture away from your skin more effectively,' says textile expert Sarah Denise Cordery. This set from Piglet in Bed is not only beautiful, but also made from a linen and cotton blend that is breathable and will help you stay cool in the summer months. Avène thermal spring water spray £5.75 at Boots£5.75 at Look Fantastic On a blistering day, there's nothing more refreshing than the feeling of sea spray against your skin. But if you're not near the coast, this cooling face mist from Avène is a close second best. Suitable for sensitive skin, this spring water spray is a soothing antidote for itchy or uncomfortable skin. Pet shade bed £16.99 in store at Aldi (available from 18 May) Hot weather is even more taxing for pets, and they may need a helping hand to keep cool. This pet bed from Aldi is elevated off the hot ground and has a shade to protect them from the sun. It also comes with a travel case to keep your pet cool on outdoor ventures. Winnie sunglasses £30 at The White Company£29.95 at Amazon In need of some new sunnies? This A Kjærbede pair is a timeless style. Jess Cartner-Morley selected these for her May style essentials after lusting after a similar pair worn by Chloe in the White Lotus series 3. Ikesia sandals £215 at Ancient Greek Sandals£215 at Next These sandals are 'just the right balance of chic and practicality,' says Jess Cartner-Morley. Ancient Greek Sandals are made from soft leather in various styles and colours, so you can pick a pair that suits you. For more, check out Jess Cartner-Morley's May style essentials Butter yellow sandals £74.95 at Salt-Water 'Butter yellow, we are told, is the colour of spring 2025,' says fashion writer Ellie Violet Bramley. These classic Salt-Water sandals are an easy way to embrace the trend. Vinted is also an excellent source for nabbing some secondhand Salt-Waters at a bargain price. For more women's fashion updates, check out our guide to spring style essentials Red linen-blend top £47 at Nobody's Child Red linen-blend trousers £65 at Nobody's Child This co-ord is so wearable, and the linen will keep you cool on hotter days. If you're yet to try the co-ord trend, Ellie Violet Bramley advises going for a block colour as it's a 'less intimidating gateway' than a kitsch print. Uniqlo Airism dress £34.90 at Uniqlo Uniqlo's Airism range is known for its breathable qualities, perfect to keep you feeling fresh in the heat. This cotton dress comes with a built-in bra to give you full coverage without having the worry of bra straps showing. Rainbow linen jacket £180 at Boden£180 at John Lewis 'This jacket is an instant spring wardrobe shaker-upper,' says Ellie Violet Bramley. Add an instant injection of colour to your look with this fun and bright linen jacket. Barrel leg trousers £34.90 at Uniqlo For those sunny days not quite warm enough for shorts, loose-fit trousers will be your best friend. This viral pair from Uniqlo is a dreamy combo of casual enough for every day and smart enough for the office. Linen-blend light striped trousers £24.99 at H&M Pinstripe is definitely having a moment this season. This pair of linen-blend trousers would be a hard-working staple in your warm-weather wardrobe. Antler overnight bag £125 at John Lewis£125 at Antler If you need a new bag for weekends away, this one from Antler is genius. A favourite of Jess Cartner-Morley's thanks to its handy strap that can be slotted over the handle of your suitcase. 'This keeps it sitting securely on top of your luggage without everything falling over in chaos,' she says. A great option for short stays or hand luggage for longer trips. For more, check out Jess Cartner-Morley's March style edit Simple white organic T-shirt £14.90 for women's at Plain and Simple£14.90 for men's at Plain and Simple You can't go wrong with a good-quality white tee. This one from Plain and Simple is affordable and made using ethical materials and practices. White Stan Smith trainers From £85 at AdidasFrom £75 at Pro Direct White trainers are a style staple and none have stood the test of time quite like Adidas Stan Smiths. Menswear editor Helen Seamons rates them as one of the only 22 items you'll ever need in her men's capsule wardrobe edit. Colourful standard swim shorts £60 at Harvey Nichols Whether you're hitting the lido or running errands, these easy-to-wear swim shorts come with an elasticated drawstring waist and are perfect for sunny days. Jetty cord cap £40 at Finisterre Keep the sun at bay with a hat. This unisex cord baseball cap is a colourful twist on a classic style. Floral cotton sun hat £28 at Lucy & Yak This cute hat from Lucy & Yak would make a fun statement piece for a festival, but also wouldn't look out of place for a picnic in the park or a day at the beach. Altruist sunscreen SPF50 £22 at Victoria Health£19.99 at Amazon I know you're probably sick of hearing it, but it's worth repeating – wearing sunscreen is not only important for your health, but is one of the most effective anti-ageing tools. Altruist is a brand founded by dermatologists, and its sunscreen is 'some of the best-value high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen on the market,' says beauty columnist Sali Hughes. For more, check out Sali Hughes's guide to the best sunscreens for every need Garnier Body Repair body lotion £2.99 at Superdrug£2.99 at Amazon Keep your skin looking hydrated with a nourishing moisturiser. Skincare expert Caroline Hirons says this Garnier body repair lotion is her 'most used skincare product of all time', even after trying hundreds of luxury and budget products. 'I cover myself in the stuff every morning, and it smooths and conditions my skin without any stickiness,' says Hirons. For more, check out skin, hair and wellness essentials the experts can't live without Natural gradual tan £34.99 at Three Warriors£34.99 at Oxygen Boutique Get that summer glow without having to roast in the sun for hours. Gradual tan is the safest way to get a tan, both because you avoid the harmful UV exposure that comes with a natural tan and it's less prone to disaster than overnight self-tanners. This one from Three Warriors is 'the creme de la creme of tan', says wellness writer Hayley Spencer. For more, check out beauty treatments you can do at home – and the ones you really shouldn't, according to the experts Nails Inc orange polish £9 at Nails Inc£7.20 at Amazon Add a pop of colour to your spring looks with some bright nails. This statement orange shade from Nails Inc will add cheer to any outfit.
The Guardian
17-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Guardian
Beat brain rot: clear your mind with 55 screen-free activities, from birdwatching to colouring books
I'm sure many of us are guilty of relying on our phones to decompress, even when taking some downtime. But if your social media feeds are anything like mine – an endless stream of fad workouts, meal plans and extravagant skincare routines – it's more likely to whip you into an anxious frenzy than leave you feeling calm and relaxed. Whether you have social media anxiety, insomnia or are just terrified by the idea of 'brain rot', you need a way to de-stress that doesn't involve a screen, especially when many of us stare at one all day for work or school. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. I'm sure we're all familiar with the concept of mindfulness and how the practice can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and boost concentration. But you might not realise how easy it is to incorporate it into your everyday life – after all, at its core, mindfulness is just about keeping yourself in the present moment. So to help you do just that, I've compiled a list of screen-free activities to help you clear your mind, get outside (if the weather allows) and be more mindful, without meditating. It's hardly new information that immersing yourself in nature can positively affect your mental health. But exposure to the great outdoors isn't the only benefit of gardening – all that planting, pruning and weeding is also a great way to calm your mind and focus on the present. So, whether you have a back garden, allotment or a few plant pots to tend to, here are some tools to help you get stuck in. Three-month vegetable seed subscription £36 at Not on the High Street£36 at Virgin Experience Days Among the most therapeutic and satisfying parts of gardening is growing your own plants or crops. Start a vegetable patch with three deliveries of four seasonal vegetable seeds, from Swiss chard to chillies. Each pack comes with tailored growing instructions for each vegetable, making it a great option for beginners. Burgon & Ball bypass secateurs £23 at Farrar & Tanner If your garden is in need of a tidy-up, you'll no doubt need a trusty pair of secateurs. When Matt Collins, head gardener at London's Garden Museum, put the best pairs of secateurs to the test, this surprisingly affordable model from Burgon & Ball came out on top. Niwaki hori hori knife £39 at Burford Garden knives are among the most versatile tools in any gardener's arsenal, taking on weeding, planting and digging (to name a few of their uses). Experts swear by the Niwaki hori hori knife. For more gardening inspiration, check out our guide to getting your garden ready for summer Bulb planting augers From £5.59 at Crocus Level up your garden with these gamechanging augers that make it easier to plant bulbs. Velvet gladioli collection £34.50 for 90 corms at Sarah Raven If you want to plant some bulbs now, these gorgeous gladioli would make an excellent addition to any garden, and you can expect them to flower from July. Copper gardening tools From £49 at Burford For a satisfying gardening experience, you need the right tools. Gardening expert Alys Fowler says these copper gardening tools are 'a joy to handle, lightweight and comfortable, and the more you use it, the more the copper shines'. Large terrarium DIY kit £52.49 at Debenhams£69.99 at Argos If you're not lucky enough to have a garden, you can still reap the calming benefits of gardening with a terrarium. This DIY kit comes with the glass bowl terrarium as well as charcoal, gravel, sand and rocks to get you started. Then you can buy some terrarium plants of your choice to create a perfect miniature garden. For more expert recommendations, check out our guide to the best gardening tools The focus needed to complete jigsaw puzzles can stop your thoughts from wandering elsewhere and help you stay in the now. Find one that fits your interests, whether you're a Wes Anderson fan or an avid cook. Accidentally Wes Anderson 1,000-piece jigsaw £16.26 at AbeBooks£18.39 at WH Smith Piece together a gallery wall featuring framed pictures of locations that capture the aesthetic of film director Wes Anderson. Michael Storrings Cherry Blossoms 1,000-piece jigsaw £13.45 at Hive£14.99 at WH Smith A beautiful scene of cherry blossoms in a Washington DC park by award-winning illustrator Michael Storrings. Cooked 1,000-piece jigsaw £14.35 at Hive£18.99 at Amazon Complete this puzzle to reveal a collection of your favourite chefs' cookbooks designed by illustrator Harriet Thomas-Bush. The world of Jane Austen 1,000-piece jigsaw £16.99 at the Guardian Bookshop£16.99 at Waterstones Step into the world of Jane Austen and celebrate the 250th anniversary of her birth with this puzzle inspired by her life and works. If your children tend to be glued to a TV, phone or tablet, entice them away with a puzzle of their favourite characters. Jigsaws are thought to help children develop their hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills. Paddington 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle £7.50 at Argos Paddington gets around, whether that's having tea with the late queen or getting up to mischief in Peru. If your kids love the films, then perhaps a Paddington puzzle is just the thing to give them a screen break. Stitch 3D puzzle £9.99 at Argos£14.99 at Ravensburger If they're more of a Disney fan, they might enjoy this 3D Stitch puzzle, a really fun take on a traditional jigsaw. Bluey 4 in a box jigsaws £5.59 at John Lewis£5.59 at Amazon For younger ones, this set comes with four puzzles featuring scenes from the kids' cartoon Bluey. The jigsaws range from 12 to 24 pieces, so they can gradually build up their puzzle skills. Birdwatching and observing wildlife in general are other ways to relax and unwind in the great outdoors. Try reconnecting with nature by sitting in your garden or a park and watching any birds, insects or other animals that cross your path. RSPB Cabin nest box £25 at RSPB Entice more birds into your garden with this sweet bird house, perfect for species such as blue tits, house sparrows and nuthatches to set up camp. Hand-crafted in the UK using FSC-certified timber, the side panel of the house opens so you can carefully empty it at the end of nesting season and make room for the next occupant. Roosting pockets £15 for three at RSPB These handmade roosting pockets are made from natural materials and offer a safe shelter for small birds. They come with two different-sized holes that you can switch between depending on the size of bird you wish to attract. Our Garden Birds £14.99 at the Guardian Bookshop£9.99 at Amazon This beautifully illustrated book of British garden birds offers a whimsical tool for identifying all the species you spot. RSPB Birding Journal £15 at RSPB If you need somewhere to keep track of your observations, this birdwatchers' journal from the RSPB is the perfect place to keep notes. Plus, it's made of 100% recycled paper. Nikon Monarch M7 binoculars 8x30 £319 at John Lewis£319 at Jessops If birdwatching is an activity you'd like to do more of, then investing in a good pair of binoculars could really enhance your experience. When researching the best for beginners, this pair from Nikon cropped up again and again on birdwatching forums and blogs. It has 8x magnification and offers a wide field of view so you can track moving birds more easily. Celestron Nature DX 10x42 £159.99 at Argos£159 at London Camera Exchange If you're not ready for such a big investment just yet, this more affordable pair of binoculars is also highly recommended by birdwatchers. The design is waterproof and fog-proof, making it ideal for use even during April showers. Children's Nature Trail Journal £4.95 at Rex London£4.95 at Hive Get kids excited about nature with their own journal. This book is full of illustrations of animals, plants and insects that may be found along a British nature trail, with room to make notes of everything you spot. Colouring isn't just for kids: it's seen a real rise in popularity among adults in recent years, with many people claiming the pastime helps them to relieve stress and focus on the present moment. Manchester colouring book £14.99 at Etsy£14.99 at Colour Your Streets Colour Your Streets has a range of books filled with landmarks from cities, counties and areas around the UK and abroad. From Barcelona to York, dozens of places are covered, so there's sure to be a book for somewhere meaningful to you. Coco Wyo colouring book £7.42 at Amazon Coco Wyo's colouring books have become popular with adults thanks to their cute and comforting scenes. Immersing yourself in these books will no doubt soothe your inner child and leave you feeling cosy. Mindfulness colouring book for adults £6.43 at WH Smith£3.49 at Amazon If you're after something with a more mature feel, intricate patterns like those in this book take more focus and help you to stay in the moment. Let your kids colour outside the lines with colouring books, sticker mosaics and crystal art kits that nurture their creativity and keep them off their phones. Jumbo doodle chalk £6 at John Lewis For those fair-weather days, encourage them to take their creativity outside with jumbo chalks that are perfect for drawing on pavements. British Museum: Around the World colouring book £6.99 at Blackwells£6.43 at Amazon From an ancient Greek marketplace to a traditional dragon parade, scenes inspired by the British Museum's artefacts are the canvas in this book. Football Heroes colouring book £7.35 at WH Smith From Messi to Haaland, bring football heroes to life with this 80-page colouring book filled with legends of the game. Sloth crystal art kit £19.99 at Craft Buddy A modern take on paint-by-numbers, this canvas reveals an adorable image of a sloth once you place the coloured crystals on to their corresponding places. Animal kaleidoscope sticker mosaics £4 at Hobby Craft Use the different neon stickers to complete these kaleidoscopic wildlife mosaics. This set comes with 32 pages to keep your kids occupied. Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion For a satisfying colouring experience, make sure you choose the right tools. Pencils are better for beginners thanks to their finer tips, which offer more control. They're also better for building colour and creating shading, which can allow you to be more creative with your colouring. Alternatively, felt tips are better for creating more vibrant pictures, and many come with dual tips, allowing you to cover large areas quickly and do finer details. 36 colouring pencils £9.99 at Ryman£10 at Argos 120-pencil set £19.19 at Amazon 48 colour alcohol-based pens £38.99 at Amazon 80 graphic dual-tip markers £12.85 at Art Discount Staying present is already a big part of yoga, but why not take your practice outside for that extra serotonin boost? Lululemon 5mm yoga mat £88 at Lululemon Whether you want to stretch it out on the beach, at the park or in a forest, a thicker yoga mat will keep you comfortable on uneven surfaces or help to flatten down thick grass. This mat from Lululemon is 5mm thick and made with FSC-certified rubber, so it can be easily wiped down after outdoor use. Nonslip jute travel mat £57.99 at Complete Unity Yoga£65.55 at Etsy If you want a more portable mat, this travel one can be rolled up or folded, so you can easily transport it wherever you want. It's made from jute fabric and sustainably harvested natural tree rubber. Journaling is great if you're hoping to practise gratitude as well as mindfulness. A journal with prompts is helpful for beginners who aren't sure where to start, but if you just want an outlet for your thoughts with no structure, then go for a blank notebook. Gratitude journal £26 at Papier Papier's gratitude journal contains daily prompts and activities to help you feel grateful even after a bad day. It also comes in various colours, so you can find one that suits you. The Calm Workbook £20 at the Guardian Bookshop£15 at Blackwells A workbook full of exercises and prompts to encourage self-compassion and help build a calming routine into your daily life. MindJournal £10.99 at the Guardian Bookshop Aimed at men, the MindJournal contains writing exercises to help you understand how to look after yourself and help build a healthier and happier life. Journaling isn't just an outlet for adults, it can also help children to better understand their feelings and improve their emotional regulation. Find a journal aimed at kids and encourage them to have a quiet moment to reflect on how they feel. HappySelf Junior journal £24.90 at HappySelf Journal Created for six- to 12-year-olds, this journal is intended to be used for a few minutes each day. It's designed to encourage gratitude and reflection on emotions. Big Life Journal for kids £24.90 at Big Life Journal The Big Life Journal aims to teach children how to believe in themselves, face challenges and grow from their mistakes through stories, illustrations and activities. Recommended for ages seven to 10. Lego has been around since the 1930s, and it's as popular as ever. Share it with the next generation and get a set you can build together (you might even enjoy it more than they do). With sets aimed at various age groups, it's the perfect activity to keep restless hands busy and help hone concentration skills. R2-D2 £66.99 at John Lewis£89.99 at Lego This 1,050-piece R2D2 is the perfect dose of nostalgia for grownups and a fun activity for kids aged 10+. Wild Animals: Panda Family £27.99 at John Lewis£34.99 at Lego From Lego's Wild Animal range, this adorable panda family comes in 626 pieces and is aimed at children 8+. Beekeepers' House and Flower Garden £89.99 at Lego£90 at Argos This super-cute beekeeper's house will keep them entertained even after it's built, doubling up as a doll's house. Aimed at kids 12 and older, this set comes in 1,161 pieces. From landmarks and buildings to animals and plants, there are seemingly endless Lego sets for adults. And just like jigsaws, the repetitive but mentally engaging activity can help to clear your mind. The Botanical Garden £289.99 at Lego Put together this 3,792-piece set to reveal a beautiful botanical garden with 35 different plant species. Tuxedo cat £89.99 at Lego£90 at Argos This furry friend comes in 1,710 pieces and can be built into different poses – puurfect for cat lovers. Wildflower bouquet £43.99 at John Lewis£54.99 at Lego For flowers that will last for ever, check out Lego's range of buildable bouquets and plants. Studies have shown that combining mindfulness and physical exercise can improve your mental health more than either practice alone. With this in mind, running is great for helping to clear your mind while also improving your cardiovascular health. Get outside for a run and try to focus on not letting your mind wander. Kiprun hydration running belt £14.99 at Decathlon This handy running belt is perfect for keeping your keys, phone and a small drink on you. For more, read our guide to the best gifts for runners New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v14 Shoes £160 at New BalanceFrom £152.20 at Amazon If you predominantly run on roads or pathways, try these trainers from New Balance. They were deemed the best trainers for road runs in our guide to the best running shoes. Asics Trabuco Max 4 £160 for women's at Asics£160 for men's at Asics If you're more likely to run on rough terrain or nature trails, the Asics Trabuco Max 4s come highly recommended for trail runs. Puzzle books are a great way to work out and distract your brain. Whether you want an achievable challenge or something that takes a bit more thought, there are plenty of options from sudoku to word searches. The Mindfulness Puzzle Book £9.99 at the Guardian Bookshop£9.19 at WH Smith Wind down your mind with this book of fun and achievable activities designed to relax you. Wordle Challenge Puzzle Book £7.99 at the Guardian Bookshop£7.99 at Waterstones Remember Wordle? If you've been hooked on this addictive word-guessing game, try the puzzle book version so you can play without adding to your screen time. Guardian sudoku and crossword books From £7.99 at the Guardian Bookshop For puzzle traditionalists, you can't beat a sudoku or crossword to train your brain. This Guardian collection of classic puzzles is a good place to start. If your kids could benefit from something more challenging than relaxing, then puzzle books are a good way to go. Get them flexing their mental muscles with fun but stimulating riddles, mazes and mysteries. I Spy Spooky Night picture riddle book £13.94 at Amazon Take a trip through a haunted house filled with spooky riddles. Each page contains a creepy scene in which rhyming riddles must be solved to locate objects. Fun for all ages thanks to the varying difficulties of each page. Planet Earth Mazes puzzle book £7.99 at Usborne Mazes that become increasingly harder, set in scenes around the world – from piles of recycling to the rainforest. This book is a brilliant way for kids to learn about the planet while honing their focus skills. Murdle Junior: Curious Crimes for Curious Minds £5.99 at Scholastic£7.49 at Waterstones Filled with code-breaking, map-reading and maze-solving puzzles, this junior edition of the popular Murdle books will keep them entertained while they practice their problem-solving skills.
