Alex David
As Head of eCommerce, Alex makes sure our readers find the right information to help them make the best purchase. After graduating from Cambridge, Alex learned the tricks of the trade at the Good Housekeeping Institute, testing everything from vacuums to washing machines to dog toys to exercise bikes. He then moved to BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, where he got into the weeds to discover the best gardening tools, machinery, and wildlife products. At a time when it can be tricky to know what's what, and when budgets are tighter than ever, helping readers to find the right products to make their lives a little easier is a genuine passion.
When he's not scouring the internet for the latest and greatest homeware products, you can find Alex on a run, reading, or obsessing about the mighty (honestly) Tottenham Hotspur FC.
Latest articles by Alex David
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The Gozney Tread just dropped – my tests found a nearly perfect pizza oven, but it's not as portable as it looks
The Tread is an incredibly good pizza oven, a perfect choice for small families. However, it's not quite right for camping
By Alex David Published
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How to build a scarecrow – the perfect job for February to protect young seedlings in spring
A scarecrow can be an inexpensive way to keep your seedlings safe from local wildlife
By Alex David Published
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Is it legal to build a pond without a permit? Experts reveal the rules, regulations, and how koi carp can break the law
Depending on where you are in the country, your backyard pond could be breaking the law
By Alex David Published
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How to avoid buried utility lines when you dig – experts explain the crucial '2 feet 2 be safe' golden rule
Buried utility lines can damage your property and your health – here's how to find them and dig safely
By Alex David Published
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Which neighbor is responsible for shoveling snow? Expert attorneys explain your rights, responsibilities, and how not to fall foul of the law
Here's exactly when, why, and how you should shovel snow – at least according to the law
By Alex David Published
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Ice melt vs rock salt – experts reveal the best de-icing solution for your yard
Many snow management professionals disagree about the benefits of ice melt vs rock salt. I spoke to the experts to work out which is best for your home
By Alex David Published
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How to reuse plastic bottles in a garden – 7 quick DIY projects that actually work
From milk jug watering cans to soda bottle seed storage, these plastic bottle hacks turn trash into treasured tools
By Alex David Published
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Which type of snow blower is best? Experts reveal the right option for your yard
Snow blowers are saddled with jargon that makes it hard to work out what you need. I spoke to an expert about the benefits of single- vs two-stage snow blowers
By Alex David Published
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Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog Canister Vacuum review – it's great, but doesn't deliver the perfect all-round performance you'd expect at this price
It's the most expensive vacuum we've ever tested, but I'm not sure the Miele Complete C3 really lives up to that hefty price tag
By Alex David Last updated
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How to reuse old clothes in a garden – eco experts reveal 7 ways of recycling worn out fabric that aren't just making a scarecrow
Figuring out how to reuse old clothes in a garden just needs some lateral thinking. There are tons of ways to repurpose old fabric; you just have to be careful
By Alex David Published
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How to shovel snow off gravel – 4 simple steps for clear driveways, patios, and paths
It can be a pain to shovel snow off gravel, but it's easier than it looks when you know how
By Alex David Published
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How to unclog a yard drain – expert tips for unblocking all 5 types without the need of specialist equipment
Yard drainage can wreak havoc in a yard. This is how to unclog a yard drain, covering every type from catch basins to French drains and dry wells
By Alex David Published
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How to reuse an old yard hose – 4 ways to repurpose a hose that actually work
Did you know you can turn a broken hose into a brand-new irrigation system?
By Alex David Published
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What is a soakaway? Experts explain the merits of this clever drainage solution
A soakaway can be just as effective as a French drain – you just have to know where to place it
By Alex David Published
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Are plastic yard tools toxic? Horticultural experts reveal why you should remove black plastic from your yard
Many plastic kitchen utensils can be toxic, and the same might be true in your yard. I spoke to experts to find out whether or not plastic yard tools are toxic
By Alex David Published
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How much does it cost to install a heated driveway? Experts reveal the exact cost-per-foot
Heated driveways mean the end of tiresome snow shoveling. However, they're expensive to install. I spoke to experts about how much to spend on a heated driveway
By Alex David Published
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How to remove icicles – expert steps for removing icicles from gutters, porches, and eaves
They look pretty, but icicles can pose a significant danger to your wallet, your property, and even your health
By Alex David Published
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Ice melt alternatives debunked – experts reveal which 4 methods never work and the household products that will
Before you cover your yard in vinegar or kosher salt, we reveal the homemade ice melt methods that actually work
By Alex David Published
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Air plant terrariums vs succulent terrariums – plant experts explain the difference and reveal which is best for your home
Discover how to pick the right one for different spaces in your home
By Alex David Published
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Experts reveal how to prepare garden tools for spring
Learning how to prepare garden tools for spring is a simple and cheap way to get the most out of a garden. Here's how to restore tools to their 'factory edge'
By Alex David Published
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Landscaping experts reveal 3 home fixes for waterlogged lawns – you won't find better DIY lawn drainage solutions
A waterlogged lawn can cause a lot of issues, but it's often an expensive problem to solve. I spoke to landscaping experts for 3 cheaper DIY solutions
By Alex David Published
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6 French drain alternatives – and why a common tree could be a secret solution for waterlogged lawns
French drains are a common way of fixing waterlogged lawns, but they aren't a perfect solution. These 6 French drain alternatives could be smarter choices
By Alex David Published
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How to apply ice melt – de-icing pros reveal the precise ice-melt-per-yard ratio for frost-free driveways, paths, and decks
Ice melt seems pretty simple, but this winter essential can be harmful to beloved pets. I spoke to experts about how to apply ice melt safely and effectively
By Alex David Published
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Is it illegal to harvest rainwater? Why collecting water in your yard could be against the law – and how to avoid a fine
It used to be illegal to harvest rainwater in Colorado. The law has since changed, but the penalties could still be expensive
By Alex David Published