Bunnings Magazine January 2024 by Bunnings

E EEZIN FRAGA

January 2024

NEW YEAR REFRESH!

Sun seekers

27-PAGE CLEANING GUIDE

Some (pot plants) like it hot!

Outdoor updates for renters

You can make this lazy Susan

Holiday

at home

BACKYARD RETREAT: POP-UP SHADE SOLUTIONS

+ DIY GAMES TABLE + COOL PET TIPS + SUMMER DINING

A $7K bathroom renovation

Dulux Oolong

Dulux Sea Breeze

Dulux Chanson

BEFORE

®Dulux, Worth doing, worth Dulux, Weathershield and the Sheepdog device are registered trade marks of DuluxGroup (Australia) Pty Ltd.

Speed up your weekend projects this summer! Spruce up your pet’s house this weekend with a coat of Dulux® Weathershield®. Choose a scheme that matches your own house or one that stands out and makes an impact. As summer hits and you spend more time outdoors, you want your outdoor space looking its best. Give your pet’s kennel some love and make the job even easier with Dulux Weathershield – made quicker with a spray unit. All you need to do is select your Dulux colours in Dulux Weathershield and pick up your chosen spray unit. You’ll be blown away by how a lick of paint can completely transform even the smallest corner of the yard. It’s so simple you’ll be tackling the deck, fence, outdoor furniture and more, all before summer’s over! Finish your weekend projects faster this summer by using Dulux® Weathershield® in a spray unit!

TO SEE HOW MUCH FASTER SPRAY IS, WATCH OUR VIDEO

SAVE TIME WITH

SPRAY

2 1

STEPS

DAY

SHOPPING LIST Drop sheet

Transform your dog kennel in 2 easy steps Step 1: Prep • Before you spray paint your dog kennel, brush away any dirt and lay down a drop cloth in a clear space.

Brush Cleaning cloth Stirrer Dulux Weathershield Dulux RapidFinish spray unit or preferred spray unit

• Wipe down the dog kennel with a cloth.

Step 2: Paint • If using Weathershield, dilute with up to 10% water. • Stir your paint. • Unscrew the container from the spray gun and pour in the paint. • For vertical strokes, turn the nozzle to the horizontal setting. Use the circular jet for corners, edges and hard-to-reach places.

• Point the spray gun directly ahead and start spraying from one side, working along the dog kennel in long vertical strokes. Release your finger from the trigger when you get to the top and bottom to prevent too much paint forming in one area and dripping. • Continue on each side until the dog kennel is fully covered. • 2–3 coats may be required depending on your surface.

MULTI -PURPOSE SPRAY UNIT WITH ADJUSTABLE SPRAY RATE FOR FASTER APPLICATION

The magazine team

Editor Lisa Green Associate editors Artemis Gouros, Caroline Botting (NZ) Art director Bridie Mahoney Deputy art director Sophie Mullane Senior designer Carol Baldas Style editor Samantha Pointon Chief subeditors Catherine Sanders, Frances Pearson Senior subeditor Lorna Gow Digital producers Amanda Ghalaini-Yacoub, Eunice Oh (acting) Implementation manager Ellisa Kimura Editorial co-ordinator Abigail D’Souza Production co-ordinator Annie Villalta-Burgett Junior accountant Carina Law Contributors Judie Siu, Shelley Tustin, Harriet Upjohn National advertising manager Alek Jovanoski NSW business manager Dale Johnson Victoria business manager Rosanna Costa Campaign manager Deanna Kane Advertising enquiries bunningsadvertising@mediumrare content.com (02) 8114 8900 General magazine enquiries bunningsmag@bunnings.com.au (03) 8831 9777 Managing director Nick Smith Chief commercial officer Fiorella di Santo Head of sales Annii Hirst Head of content, Health & Lifestyle Gemma Sutherland Head of audience intelligence Catherine Ross Finance controller Leslie To

JANUARY

Summer love

Gear up for good times with these staycation-worthy backyard updates

OF THE CURVE 21 AHEAD Learn how a savvy couple added an extra bathroom for less than $7000

Plan it

SEEKERS 25 SUN Ensure your outdoor plants survive summer by potting up these proven heat-lovers

IT AWAY 29 TAKE Solve the renter’s garden dilemma and create a portable alfresco oasis

GOT IT COVERED 32 Choose from four fab lawn alternatives for a verdant carpet of green

Update it 37 PANEL SHOW

Discover the wonders of cladding to give your home an instant lift inside and out

NO-FLY ZONE Check out the best eco-friendly ways to get those pesky flying insects to buzz off

STEP ON IT 45 Admire the latest flooring options, from timber and tile to laminate and vinyl

49 Chill out in a DIY garden getaway!

Every effort has been taken to ensure instructions for DIY projects are correct. However, before you undertake any DIY activity, please ensure that you have the appropriate skills for the task at hand, use the correct tools and that you wear the appropriate safety equipment. Any professional installations must be undertaken by a licensed tradesperson. Editorial content is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for legal or professional advice.

CLEANING SPECIAL: TURN TO PART 1 OF OUR HOME REFRESH!

Do it NEW YEAR, NEW TOOLS Sort your toolkit and get the lowdown on the latest DIY must-haves

SUMMER LIVIN’ Build a decorative screen for your deck or patio, using fence extension panels

SIX WAYS TO SAVE EVERY DROP 54 Reduce water use with simple practices

Regulars WHAT’S HAPPENING IN JANUARY News, special buys and clever ideas

PET CORNER 34 Find out how to protect pets from heat

Published by Medium Rare Content Agency Pty Ltd. ABN 83 169 879 921, Level 1, 83 Bowman Street, Pyrmont, NSW 2009 for Bunnings Warehouse, ABN 26 008 672 179, Botannica 3 – Level 2 East Tower, 570 Swan St, Burnley, VIC 3121, Australia. © 2024. All rights reserved. For any queries or feedback, please call the magazine team on (03) 8831 9777 or forward to the attention of Bunnings Magazine Team, Botannica 3 – Level 2 East Tower, 570 Swan St, Burnley, VIC 3121, Australia. Products featured in the magazine are on offer while stocks last. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Colours may vary slightly from images shown due to the printing process. Prices shown are Bunnings prices at the time of publication and some prices may vary in regional areas. Pricing is to be used as a guide only. Bunnings magazine runs third-party advertisements. Bunnings does not endorse, evaluate or take responsibility for the products or claims in these advertisements. This publication is not for sale.

Dream it HOLIDAY AT HOME 12

Grow plants that like it hot!

Printed by IVE Group. Paper fibre is from well-managed forests and other controlled sources.

Spruce up all areas for the year ahead

Share your DIY creations with us or find inspiration for your next project. Use the hashtag #Bunningsmag instagram.com/bunnings CONNECT WITH US

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Get

l u f r u s y o a l d i l o o h c these our to d l o c f pop o stalling an a d d A by in ice! n m r o o o r C any prock y G g n painti

Scan to see the range For more information, visit gyprock.com.au

NEWS

Editor’s letter

MAKE IT YOURS

Welcome!

Compiled by Abigail D’Souza. Photography (editor) Cath Muscat; (pots) Natasha Dickins. Paint colours may vary on application. When painting, always wear safety equipment (eye protection and mask) and ensure the room is well ventilated. Keep all paint and chemicals out of the reach of children and pets.

appy New Year, everyone. We made it! And right now I’m imagining you kicking back with a cool drink in hand, flicking through these pages and enjoying the quiet that descends in these early days of a new year. Maybe you have kids or grandkids to entertain you, a dog to walk and plants to water. Whatever your to-do list, I hope it’s small, because we are advocating for a good old summer break at home. It’s our duty to support you in this endeavour, so we have embraced the ‘holiday at

Ombre pots

home’ theme – dressing a pop-up gazebo to create a shady lounge area, laying out the latest poolside accessories (and super-fun pool toys) and extending outdoor dining to maximise the lovely long days ahead. You can lap up our sunloving pot plants list plus some great, portable outdoor living ideas – from pavers to shade – that renters will love. Of course, everyone’s idea of relaxation is different. So for those whose blood pressure is lowest when they have a DIY project on the go, turn to page 18. Try your hand at making a lazy Susan to take your holiday meals to the next level. Or, if games are your thing, give an unwanted furniture item a brand-new spin – and set the scene for a friendly chess or cards tournament. The shift from laidback to looking ahead will happen at some stage and, when that time comes, our new year home refresh, complete with handy timelines, is just for you (from page 57). Enjoy! I’m off to wander the neighbourhood with the dog.

January looks like… Cool covers

Pop up some shade from the blistering sun

Marquee ‘Easy Up’ 3m x 3m non permanent gazebo, $99, I/N: 0259184

Chilled treats

Keep your drinks cold and salads crisp

Esky 52L wheeled hard cooler, $109, I/N: 3240589

JANUARY

Bug-free zones

Entertain without the creepy crawlies

“Turn terracotta pots into designer planters, like this tri-coloured trio, with an easy blended paint technique” DIY SPECIALIST NATASHA DICKINS BEFORE

Terracotta pots transformed!

Northcote Pottery terracotta egg pots: 25cm, $13.20, I/N: 0044457; 31cm, $23.10, I/N: 0044458; 40cm, $34.10, I/N: 0044459 (plants not included)

Natasha’s simple pot makeover: “Scour pots with Betta ‘Tilecare’ tile and grout cleaner, $20.94/750ml, I/N: 6829060, hose them down and let dry. Spray inside and outside of pots with two coats of Bondall pot and ornament sealer, $10.30/750ml, I/N: 2840101. Allow to dry overnight before painting. I used acrylic paint in three tonal colours, brushing the darkest around the pot bases to a third of the way up. Use clean brushes to apply the medium shade around the middle, then the lightest around the top and inside the lip, overlapping the sections. While the first coat is still wet, repeat the applications from base to top, mixing the colours slightly in the tray before brushing. Leave paint to dry overnight, then finish with two coats of pot sealer. Allow to cure for two days then add potting mix and plants.”

Gecko 13W weatherproof lantern bug zapper, $32, I/N: 0207443

Do you have a craft/DIY project or hack to share with us?

Email your project details and images (with ‘DIY project’ in the subject line) to

bunningsmag@ bunnings.com.au

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings.com.au |

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BUNNINGS MARKETPLACE

Long summer evenings are ideal for a lively games night. Gather your fam or your mates and let the good times roll!

T&R Sports 40mm table tennis/ping-pong balls, pack of 10, I/N: 0412047*

Decathlon ‘Ed 110’ interactive electronic 20 games dartboard in Black, I/N: 0502256*

FUN IN STORE! FREE SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS

Book a workshop online

CLEANING HACKS

Top tips for making light of household tasks

A very nifty sponge hack Remove dust, dirt and bugs from window and door tracks with an everyday dish sponge. Mark lines on the sponge spaced to

Randy & Travis Machinery 2 player electronic arcade basketball game, I/N: 0433161*

Sock puppet to accommodate the the rescue tracks, then cut If your blinds (and incisions with a knife. louvres) need Spray the sponge a good dust, put with a multipurpose your hand into cleaner and glide it a sock like a sock along the track to puppet to wipe them pick up debris. (thanks for the tip @walkerlife72!).

Mr Clean sponge scourers, $4.29/pack of 10, I/N: 4460126

Do you have a clever cleaning hack to share with us? See below for details...

Email your tips and images (with ‘cleaning hack’ in the subject line) to bunningsmag@bunnings.com.au

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Regent beach/ park plastic cricket set, I/N: 0372791*

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Mbeat wooden style USB turntable recorder, I/N: 0170111* Artiss 10 in 1 combination games table, I/N: 0403039*

Randy & Travis Machinery 152cm portable folding ping-pong table with 2 paddles and 2 balls, I/N: 0433148* This product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered by a Bunnings Marketplace Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. *Delivery charges may apply.

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Photography (cleaning) Getty Images. Keep all cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.

Dodge holiday boredom with hands-on workshops for kids at Bunnings. Held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout the school break, these free events include planting, painting, building, crafts and other activities to keep little hands and minds busy. See bunnings.com.au/DIY-workshops to book. Or contact your local Bunnings store for details.

9V1

I/N: 0104010

. d e r repa

I/N: 4410709

YEAR

SHELF LIFE

ALKALINE BATTERIES • USE BY: SEE BATTERY ‫ اﻧﻈﺮ إﻠﻰ اﻋﻟﻰ اﻠﺒﻄﺎرﻳﺔ‬:‫ﺗﺎرﻳﺦ اﻻﻧﺘﻬﺎء‬

I/N: 0048714 I/N: 4410273

I/N: 0048713

Be p

OUTDOOR PROJECT

All decked out “Our new property had been subdivided, making the unappealing backyard a reno priority for my partner Jeff and me.” BUNNINGS WORKSHOP COMMUNITY MEMBER @CASSIEANDREWS

January

BEFORE

IN THE GARDEN Watering tips, shade solutions and plant care for hot summer days

AFTER

◆ Plant out the vegie patch with beans, beetroot, lettuce, radish, sweet corn, zucchini and rhubarb (right). You can also sow cauliflower and cabbage seeds, giving the plants plenty of time to develop.

◆ To prolong summer flowering, deadhead spent blooms – this helps channel a plant’s energy into producing more blooms. Feed with a liquid fertiliser high in potassium to encourage flowering. ◆ When watering plants, check if the soil is hydrophobic. If water pools on the surface

◆ Erect a shade cloth to protect seedlings and heat-sensitive plants on scorching hot days. Water deeply the night before a heat event is expected to help reduce moisture stress.

To see more of this transformation, go to bunnings. com.au/backyardmakeover

After clearing and levelling their yard, this clever duo constructed a new shed. Then, with fence painted and Ekodeck installed, Cassie and Jeff built and planted raised beds in Corten steel. New turf tops off a green space that will be well used this summer. Visit workshop.bunnings. com.au for other inspiring projects.

TOOL OF THE MONTH Give fixing and fastening jobs a pro finish with Ozito’s brad finishing nailer. Adjustable nail depth control makes it suitable for surfaces such as MDF, pine and hardwood.

Rhubarb is easy to grow and great for desserts!

Ozito ‘PXC’ 18V cordless 18GA PXNGS-218 brad finishing nailer, $199/skin only (battery and charger sold separately), I/N: 0467373

After applying fertiliser near edible plants, delay harvesting for a few days and rinse well before cooking and eating. If using products to deal with pests, diseases or weeds, or when handling compost or mulch, read the label, follow instructions and wear gloves, a mask and protective gear. Store all garden chemicals and products out of reach of children and pets.

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rather than being absorbed into the mix or soil below, apply a soil-wetting agent.

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Scan the QR code For more on what to do in the garden during January, go to bunnings.com.au/ gardencorner bunnings |

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Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Photography (garden corner) Sue Stubbs, (rhubarb) Getty Images, (background) Brigid Arnott.

◆ Introduce drama to garden beds with architectural plantings. Giant elephant’s ear (Alocasia macrorrhiza, above) has large arrow-shaped leaves with ruffled edges on tall slender stems; perfect in part shade. Hardy agave (Agave spp.) has many striking forms, colours and sizes, and grows best in full sun. The darkgreen leathery leaves of sago palm (Cycas revoluta) spill from atop a stout woody trunk; grow in full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.

DREAM IT

EXTERIOR STYLING

HOLIDAY AT HOME FOR A TRULY RELAXING BREAK, SKIP THE PASSPORTS AND PLANE TICKETS AND GEAR UP FOR GOOD TIMES IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD

Photography SUE STUBBS Styling SAMANTHA POINTON

ow the festive season is behind us, we can dial down the energy and enjoy the rest of the summer at a more laidback pace. Make the most of your outside areas and be inspired to transform them into places to entertain, play or simply recharge.

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Finish a gazebo with gauzy drapes that move in the breeze, filter natural light and provide privacy. See following pages for product details

Styling assistant Rebecca Waldron.

OUTDOOR OASIS

Whether your great outdoors is a large block or a compact balcony, resort-style relaxation requirements remain the same: set up comfy seating in the shade, add a table for games and refreshments and settle into holiday mode.

MAKE IT

SEE PAGE 18 FOR HOW TO UPCYCLE A TIRED SIDE TABLE TO CREATE A SWEET SPOT FOR GAMES

ABOVE While away a sunny afternoon with a game of chess on a bespoke table, or get more physical with badminton played over bunting suspended between garden stakes (see previous pages). BELOW Give gazebo posts a lift with a sisal rope wrap

5-minute marvel! ABOVE RIGHT AND PREVIOUS PAGES Marquee ‘Roma’ 3m x 3m non-permanent gazebo, $179, I/N: 3192522, lower legs decorated with Grunt 6mm twisted sisal rope, $5.20/10m, I/N: 4310285. Windoware ‘Coco’ 213cm x 120cm sheer rod pocket curtains in White, $9.95/each, I/N: 0496462. Home Bazar ‘Manhattan’ rattan corner lounges, $449 each, I/N: 0263197†, middle lounge, $399, I/N: 0263199†, and 76cm x 76cm coffee table, $299, I/N: 0263196† (all prices include delivery). Mimosa ‘Pauline’ 48cm x 48cm outdoor cushion in Sage, $15, I/N: 0446150, on Northcote Pottery ‘Precinct Lite’ 55cm egg pot in White, $99.98, I/N: 0096213 (upturned, used as a stool). Bayliss ‘Dura’ 290cm x 200cm jute rug, $361, I/N: 6670900. Lotus Collection 400mm x 300mm large round planter basket in Natural and Black, $22.90, I/N: 0428672. Jack ‘Regency’ 1250mm steel garden stakes in Black, $6.68 each, I/N: 0054577. All other products, stylist’s own. Bring rugs, soft furnishings and curtains inside out of the weather when not in use. OPPOSITE Marquee 2m beach umbrella in Agret, $39.90, I/N: 0442764 (limited stock until late January). Mimosa ‘Malibu’ sun lounges, $329 each, I/N: 0256337. Lotus Collection 400mm x 300mm large round planter basket in Natural and White, $22.90, I/N: 0428669. Marquee ‘Arlo’ fibre cement stool in Light Grey, $99, I/N: 0262573. Christmas bush in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ 54cm egg pot in White, $129, I/N: 0252490 (plant sold separately). H2OGO! ‘Rachel’ retro island lounge, $39, I/N: 0456236. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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†Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk. Always supervise children in or around water. All pools and pool fencing must conform to your local authority’s safety regulations and guidelines. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for gazebo set-up and safety, and remove the canopy in extreme weather conditions.

MAKE A SPLASH

Nothing says ‘Aussie summer’ like playing in – or chilling by – the pool. Stay UV savvy by putting up an umbrella and providing a large woven basket to keep bottles of SPF50+, hats and sunnies handy.

ABOVE Mimosa ‘Malibu’ sun lounges, $329 each, I/N: 0256337. Marquee ‘Arlo’ fibre cement stool in Light Grey, $99, I/N: 0262573. Lotus Collection 400mm x 300mm large round planter basket in Natural and White, $22.90, I/N: 0428669. H2OGO! ‘Flamingo’ glitter swim ring, $29, I/N: 0456201. All other products, stylist’s own. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Never leave lit candles unattended and always supervise children in and around water.

MAKE IT

TURN TO PAGE 18 TO FIND OUT HOW TO DIY A LAZY SUSAN FOR EFFORTLESS ENTERTAINING

OPPOSITE Mimosa ‘Woolamai’ round market umbrella, $169, I/N: 3192696, ‘Macedon’ 130cm round table, $549, I/N: 0426314, and aluminium rope dining chairs in White, $135 each, I/N: 0427994. Lemon tree. (On table) Waxworks 15cm citronella pillar candle in White, $6.45, I/N: 0289387, and 10cm citronella pillar candle in White, $6/pack of 2, I/N: 0289138. All other products, stylist’s own. 16 bunnings.com.au |

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DINE OUT

Turn your ‘staycation’ into an alfresco affair and enjoy your meals outside at a stylish table. A potted lemon tree means a squeeze of citrus juice for drinks and dressings is always at hand.

Enjoy mood lighting after dark and deter mozzies with citronella candles

ON THE TABLE

UP YOUR ENTERTAINING GAME WITH THESE CUSTOM PIECES

Give a shabby side table new life with paint and tape

Keep in mind… n When power sanding and

spray-painting, wear eye protection, a mask and gloves and work outside or in a well-ventilated area, covering surrounding areas with a drop sheet to avoid overspray. n Keep all paint and chemicals out of the reach of children and pets.

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each corner of the upper half of the bearing plate to the top panel, using 15mm timber screws. Sand the top panel, including the edge, with medium-grit paper, wipe away sanding dust, then mask off the edge with strips of painter’s tape to paint stripes. Leave to dry, then apply two coats of foodsafe oil to the top panel with a cloth or brush, leaving to dry after each coat. Attach adhesive felt feet under the base panel, to help prevent scratches on your tabletop.

Use a pre-made round timber panel to put a fresh spin on serving

DIY TOOLKIT 2

1 Feast Watson kitchen timber oil, $29.70/250ml, I/N: 1520221. 2 Adoored 150mm 180kg lazy Susan bearing plate, $7.35, I/N: 0080822. 3 Specrite 600mm x 18mm multi use round pine panel, $19, I/N: 0419618•. 4 Full Boar M2 HSS 10mm drill bit, $10.73, I/N: 0328212. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

CHESS-BOARD UPCYCLE Tools & materials

n Safety equipment (mask, eye and ear protection, gloves) n Random orbital sander with 180-grit disc n Microfibre cloth n Ruler and pencil n Combination square

n Scissors n Utility knife n Pre-loved timber side table n Spray primer n Spray paint (we used Dulux Duramax in Vivid White and Green Spruce)

n 36mm painter’s tape n Chess pieces n Black permanent marker n Spray clear gloss polyurethane n Two 15mm brass cup hooks

1 Sand any varnish or paint from the table, wipe away dust, then spray with primer and leave to dry. Apply 2-3 coats of white spray paint, leaving to dry after each coat. On the tabletop, use a ruler and combination square to draw an 8 x 8 grid of 36mm squares in pencil.

2 Cut 36mm squares of painter’s tape to mask off every second square on the grid, then mask off remainder of tabletop. Apply 2-3 coats of green spray paint, leaving to dry after each coat. Spray chess pieces to match board colours and leave to dry.

3 Remove tape from around the grid. Use a utility knife to carefully lift the edges of the squares of tape to peel off. Outline grid using a ruler and black marker. Spray tabletop with polyurethane to seal. Screw cups hooks to the underside to hold bags of chess pieces.

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Projects and styling Samantha Pointon. Photography Sue Stubbs. •Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information. Paint colours may vary on application.

LAZY SUSAN

Use a 600mm x 18mm round pine panel for the top and cut a 350mm square of scrap timber of a similar thickness for the base. Centre a 150mm lazy Susan bearing plate on the base panel, rotate the upper half to form an eight-point star and secure the lower half with 15mm timber screws at each corner. Mark the location of one hole of the upper half on the base panel and drill a 10mm access hole. Centre the base panel on the top panel and use the access hole to screw

Scan the QR code to buy online

caroma.com.au to learn more

VISIT

Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Satin Black, Brushed Brass

C O LO U R O P T I O N S

Australian style meets clever design The Luna Collection offers reliable and durable products that are well designed with Australian ingenuity to suit your lifestyle. With classic designs in a range of colour finishes, this collection offers practical features that can be personalised for your unique space.

DREAM IT

WASHROOM WONDER

Ahead of the curve

FORWARD PLANNING, SMART BUYS AND CLEVER DIY PROJECTS DELIVERED THIS IMPRESSIVE BATHROOM ON A TIGHT BUDGET Words SHELLEY TUSTIN

Katrina

Photography J. Parsons Photography. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

uilding a new ensuite, complete with feature vanity but without a huge price tag, was an achievable challenge for experienced renovators Katrina and Jesse (therenolifetas.com.au). “We’re big on finding ways to achieve beauty for less,” says Katrina, who has completed two new builds and seven renovations with her husband. This ensuite, part of an extension to a 1950s cottage, was finished for $7000. “Obviously DIY had a lot to do with it – my husband’s a builder,” Katrina says. But their bottom line was also down to savvy purchases and a can-do attitude.

Jesse

This on-trend vanity was created from a hardwood panel and lining boards bunnings.com.au |

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Round house

Photography J. Parsons Photography. •Wall linings vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information. †Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk. Any plumbing work must be carried out by a licensed tradie.

The curved shower wall is the standout hero of the bathroom, but was also the greatest challenge. “As a self-taught tiler, Jesse certainly wasn’t excited by it!” says Katrina. But after three days of painstaking work with fiddly kitkat tiles, the results are worth it. The space is completed with a brass showerhead and mixer and a simple glass shower screen. One of Katrina’s genius planning ideas was to place the mixer on the opposite wall to the showerhead, so you can switch it on without getting wet!

Scan the QR code

Find out how to make the timber vanity: workshop.bunnings.com. au/timber-fluted-vanity

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“Proper design should be affordable to everyone. We all want to get the most out of our homes” Katrina, homeowner

Made with love

Carefully considered colours and textures combine in this bright and welcoming spa-throom

Frustrated by the inflated cost of high-end vanities, Katrina and Jesse decided to have a crack at making one from scratch. “We just bought a hardwood panel from Bunnings and made it into a rectangular box, which is a really simple thing to do,” says Katrina. Hinged doors were chosen to keep it simple and Porta ‘Cirque’ lining glued on for texture. A hard wax seal is more than adequate to protect the walnut-stained timber – though Katrina says they recently added an acrylic top to the similar vanity in the family bathroom, to make it more bulletproof for kids!

Blue-sky thinking

Providing sufficient natural light was another challenge. “It was on the southern side and right up against the boundary, so the skylight was essential to get the light,” says Katrina. Jesse made the skylight, saving on costs, while the main window was another budget success – a double-glazed aluminium window bought secondhand. A light, neutral colour scheme also keeps the room bright. “But I wanted to do it in a way that brought a bit of interest,” Katrina says. This inspired the choice of a deep walnut stain for the vanity and the beige (“I would call it a really subtle blush pink”) concrete basin, which picks up the oatmeal tones of the floor and wall tiles.

Panel discussion Katrina began sourcing materials, including these tiles, two years before starting the project

The Easycraft wet area VJ wall lining is a nod to the original materials used in this 1950s house, but Katrina says it’s also a favourite material across all their renovations. “We can’t get enough of it. It’s a really beautiful way to get a bit of texture, and it’s a nice way to finish an area, such as behind a vanity, without the extra cost of tiling.”

GET THE LOOK

Easycraft ‘EasyVJ100’ 2400mm x 1200mm x 9mm UMR MDF E0 primed wet area interior wall lining, $129, I/N: 0166124•

Caroma ‘Luna’ WELS 6-star 4.5L/min brushed wall basin/bath mixer in Brass, $279, I/N: 0327303†

Decor8 ‘Kenzo’ 296mm x 293mm porcelain mosaic tile sheet in White Gloss, $17.90, I/N: 0289537

Cibo round thin edge ceramic basin in Pale Pink, $260, I/N: 0247079

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Belite ‘Di Moda’ 600mm x 600mm matt floor tile in Beige, $102.96/ pack of 4, I/N: 0289982†

PLAN IT

HOT POTS

Sun seekers

KEEP YOUR GARDEN LOOKING ITS BEST WHEN THE MERCURY STARTS TO RISE WITH THESE 10 HEAT-TOLERANT PLANTS

Photography Plant Growers Australia/pga.com.au. Some plants are classified as weeds in certain states and territories, so always check their suitability for your region.

ot and dry conditions are tough on plants, especially those in pots and hanging baskets, which dry out faster than those in beds. This challenge is greater for west-facing locations, where the afternoon sun is relentless. But there are plants that thrive in these conditions, enduring high temperatures and minimal watering – once established – while maintaining their good looks. Here are our top sun-loving choices.

During hot weather, hardy plants in pots will still need regular watering, especially those in smaller pots which hold less potting mix bunnings.com.au |

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BANKSIA ‘BIRTHDAY CANDLES’ (Banksia spinulosa) An attractive, compact low-growing shrub with narrow leaves and large gold-bronze flower spikes in autumn and winter. Grow in a native potting mix and deadhead to keep it tidy.

TRAILING ICE PLANT (Lampranthus spectabilis) This succulent has slender fleshy leaves covered with a prolific display of red to pink and white daisy-like blooms from spring to summer. It will quickly fill a pot and trail over the sides.

INDIAN HAWTHORN (Rhaphiolepis indica cvs) An evergreen with dark-green leathery leaves and white to pale-pink flowers in spring and summer*. This tough, salt-tolerant shrub has a compact, rounded form and is great for coastal areas and poolside containers.

CONVOLVULUS (Convolvulus spp.) A sprawling groundcover with small green foliage and a profusion of white or purple flowers in spring and summer. Looks superb cascading out of pots and hanging baskets, over rockeries or on flat ground (see page 25).

LOMANDRA (Lomandra spp.) These native grasses grow into dense clumps of strappy green foliage, and vary in height from 30cm to 1.2m, depending on the variety. Tolerant of coastal conditions, they can be trimmed back if becoming unruly.

SOCIETY GARLIC (Tulbaghia violacea) Lilac flowers rise above the handsome strappy green foliage from spring to autumn. The leaves form small, soft mounds to 30cm and have a strong garlic fragrance when crushed. Both leaves and flowers are edible.

ANGEL WINGS (Senecio candicans) Large velvety silvery-white leaves make this succulent a standout feature. Contrast with purple or green foliage for an eye-catching display. Ensure the soil is free-draining or use a cacti and succulent potting mix.

STRAWFLOWER (Xerochrysum bracteatum) A fast-growing native groundcover with masses of vibrant blooms in white, yellow, pink, red and orange with golden centres. Plant out in pots or hanging baskets in a nativespecific potting mix.

COASTAL ROSEMARY (Westringia fruticosa) An evergreen native shrub with small grey-green, rosemary-like leaves and masses of white or blue-mauve flowers through spring. Naturally forms a loose mound but can be clipped into a formal topiary ball.

ASCOT RAINBOW SPURGE (Euphorbia x martinii ‘Ascot Rainbow’) Highly decorative rosettes of lanceshaped leaves with tones of cream, green-blue and new reddish growth. Makes a striking feature mass planted in pots but use a cacti and succulent mix, as it can’t stand wet feet.

BEAT THE HEAT

Apply a naturally derived mulch, like pine bark or pea straw, to pots to help insulate the potting mix. “Always water in the cool of the morning or early evening,” says Jeanette Kennedy of Plant Growers Australia (pga.com.au). This reduces water loss through evaporation. Group small pots to create a cool microclimate around the plants, suggests Jeanette. If a heat event is expected, shade leafy greens and vulnerable plants with a large umbrella to diffuse the heat and stop soil drying out.

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WATER SMART

If you’re a forgetful gardener or will be away for a couple of weeks, horticulturist Melissa King of Scotts Osmocote advises using self-watering containers, which have a built-in reservoir. “As long as there is ample water in the reservoir, plants can access water as they need it, so there’s no need to constantly monitor their watering needs,” says Melissa. Note smaller pots and baskets need at least twice weekly watering in hot weather. See bunnings.com.au/ holiday-garden-and-plant-care for more tips.

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Photography (banksia, Indian hawthorn, angel wings, strawflower) Getty Images; (lomandra, coastal rosemary, trailing ice plant, convolvulus, society garlic, Ascot Rainbow spurge) Plant Growers Australia/pga.com.au. *Look for named varieties as they are less likely to be invasive.

TOUGH CUSTOMERS

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PLAN IT

TIPS FOR TENANTS

(From left) Golden cane palm, peace lily and bird’s-nest ferns in Tuscan Path ‘Harper’ fibreglass egg pots in White: 54cm, $129, I/N: 0252490; 31cm, $48.38, I/N: 0252487; and 26cm, $30.78, I/N: 0252485. All plants sold separately

Photography Louise Roche, styling Kylie Jackes. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

TAKE IT AWAY

CREATE A GARDEN THAT CAN GO WITH YOU WHEN YOU MOVE HOME Words ROGER FOX

ove outdoor living but don’t own your home? Enter the renter’s garden! Whether you are in a house, townhouse or apartment, you can create a space to relax and dine undercover and in the open air, and nurture plants

for pleasure and plate. There’s a vast range of materials, accessories and gardenware to help you create your own special outdoor space. Portability is obviously important, as you want to be able to take your garden with you when you relocate, so products

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that are lightweight and able to be easily disassembled should be top of your list. Don’t repress your ‘inner landscaper’ or deny yourself the vegie patch you’ve always yearned for, just because you’re renting. The great outdoors is there for all! bunnings |

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A room of your own

Made in the shade

A sun-drenched backyard might be nice in winter but, when the weather warms up, there are various ways to introduce non-permanent shade. Portable gazebos offer a temporary shade solution that is easy to assemble and simple to move when needed. Plus, some designs also include LED lighting for evenings.

A market umbrella is an effective and entirely portable option to create shade in an exposed yard

Other effective shade options include bistro blinds (which can also help to enclose and weatherproof an outdoor room), shade sails and awnings attached to exterior walls – just remember to seek approval from your landlord before you install them.

Grow what you eat

For many people, gardens are an opportunity to grow their own food – and living in a rental is no barrier to this. Many of the portable garden beds available are ideal for balconies, courtyards and patios, according to Bunnings landscape buyer Steve Bone. “A raised garden bed with wheels can be easily moved around to suit your space, and is ideal for growing flowers, herbs and smaller

“Cluster containers of varying heights to create a focal point, and choose plants that won’t grow too big for their pots” Lyndall Keating, garden designer

vegetables,” he says. Where space is tight, consider a vertical garden that doesn’t need fixing to a wall. “The Holman GreenWall Mobile Garden Kit offers vertical gardening on a mobile frame and is compact enough for a balcony,” explains Steve. “It also comes with its own watering system.” To get a head start on the growing season, or beat the heat or frost, greenhouses for small spaces can be set up just about anywhere, and packed down easily.

Trees to go

If your gardening passion extends to trees, you can indulge in a few container-friendly species (and take them with you when you move). You’ll need a large lightweight container, at least 40cm in diameter and 50cm deep. Choose smaller varieties such as Japanese maples and camellias for shaded spots, or edible varieties like dwarf citrus for sunny locations. The lemon myrtle, with wonderful scented leaves, is a lovely native option.

Photography (above and opposite below) Belinda Merrie, styling Sam van Kan.

The first area to concentrate on is creating an outdoor living space. There are many furniture options which are easy to assemble – and also easy to pack up and transport. For balconies and courtyards, look at cafe-style tables and chairs. In larger backyards, consider trestle table and bench combinations. To cater to your relaxation needs, garden designer Lyndall Keating (gardensociety. com.au) recommends lounges with colourful cushions and a small group of tables. And to make a space feel larger and brighter, she suggests incorporating an outdoor mirror. If you have a paved courtyard or balcony, then it’s just a case of furnishing and decorating the space. But if the existing ground surface is grass or concrete, you could seek permission from your landlord to lay paving or modular timber decking, both of which are fairly easy DIY jobs. Or you could use the transformative power of paving and concrete paint – again, with your landlord’s approval. Where an area has overhead protection, an outdoor rug can enhance the look of the space, but bring it inside when not in use. To create privacy from neighbours, add screens and planter boxes, says Lyndall. “Fill them with tall plants such as lilly pillies, which can tolerate a range of conditions.”

UP & GO 1 2 3 4 5

7 ABOVE Freestanding vertical gardens take up little space and can be very productive LEFT “Battery-operated fairylights and festoon lighting are a low-cost way to make an outdoor space more homely,” says Lyndall. “Include lanterns and hurricane vases with candles to add some style.” For added safety, choose flameless candles suited for outside use. And simply pick them up and go when your lease is up!

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9 10

1 Jack 29cm round pot trolley in Charcoal, $14.98, I/N: 2871061. 2 Dwarf Tahitian Lime in Northcote Pottery ‘Riley’ 40cm egg pot in Antique White, $59, I/N: 0357830 (plant sold separately). 3 Fountain Products 610mm x 510mm x 240mm raised garden bed with wheels in Charcoal, $29.99, I/N: 0117520 (plants not included). 4 Matrix ‘Ferns’ 1800mm x 900mm x 6mm screen panel in Charcoal, $99, I/N: 0092401. 5 Marquee 2.4m portable gazebo in Charcoal, $69, I/N: 0124003. 6 Holman ‘GreenWall’ mobile garden kit, $89, I/N: 0261500. 7 Saxon 200cm x 140cm x 70cm small walk-in greenhouse, $49, I/N: 0331636. 8 Un-real ‘Pittosporum’ 180cm x 90cm artificial bamboo trellis expandable hedge, $66.98, I/N: 0293784. 9 Marquee 3m cantilever umbrella in Charcoal, $99, I/N: 3192300. 10 Mimosa ‘Malibu’ daybed, $639, I/N: 0256332. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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PLAN IT

LAWN ALTERNATIVES

Got it covered Stay green down low with lawn alternatives for low-traffic areas and between pavers

Creeping boobialla

This hardy native groundcover lies almost flat against the ground, forming a dense mat of small glossy, green or purple-tinged leaves. In late spring and summer it’s studded with white or pink star-shaped flowers, which are attractive to bees, birds and butterflies.

Silver carpet

A fast-growing evergreen perennial with narrow, silver-green leaves and yellow daisy-like flowers in the warmer months. It grows into a thick soil-hugging carpet, spreading quickly via underground stems, forming roots as it goes to fill out areas – its habit is so dense it’s often used to stabilise soil on sloped sites.

Creeping boobialla

(Myoporum parvifolium)

Silver carpet

(Dymondia margaretae)

Adaptable to a wide range of climates, this fast grower likes a full-sun to part-shade location.

Tolerant of drought and coastal conditions. Prefers to be planted in full sun and well-drained soil.

Dwarf mondo grass

Kidney weed

Dwarf mondo grass

Kidney weed

A rambling perennial with green kidney-shaped leaves that grows close to the ground. It spreads via underground stems that form roots, and can quickly cover large areas. ‘Silver Falls’, a cultivar with silverygreen foliage, is a great option for colour contrast in the garden. FOR MORE PLANTS, VISIT bunnings.com.au/plants

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(Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nana’)

A slow grower that forms a dense mat and crowds out weeds. Likes well-draining soil and part shade.

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(Dichondra repens)

This compact groundcover likes regular watering but can cope with dry periods once established.

bunningswarehouseaustralia

Photography Alamy Stock Photo; (silver carpet) Gap Photos/Jerry Pavia.

Strappy, glossy green foliage makes this ornamental grass an ideal lawn alternative. It only grows to about 5cm tall, so never needs mowing, and is tolerant of dry conditions once established. Slender stalks with white or purple flowers appear in summer. It grows best in cool to tropical zones.

Pet

CORNER

NEWS, REVIEWS, MEWS AND MORE

HE MO NT

PE T

Cat myths

EDDIE CHIHUAHUA

MAMA’S BOY

Being a little bundle of cuteness is light work for this 10-month-old puppy

1 2

I live in… Hervey Bay, Queensland.

My preferred mode of transport is… My mum’s arms.

My perfect day involves… Eating, sleeping, eating, playing, sleeping.

Others would describe me as… Being too cute.

5 6 7

My best friend is… Flower, my big sister. My favourite celebrity is… Bluey.

Summer days are for… Sitting by the pool in my chair, watching everyone play in the water.

I get grumpy when… What’s “grumpy”?

Would you like to see your animal pal in our pages? Email bunningsmag@ bunnings.com.au, share your pet’s photo, name and breed, and your companion could feature in our Pet of the Month column!

Fact or fiction? Myths about cats abound, from ‘cats have nine lives’ to ‘orange cats are a bit dim’ (miaow, how rude!), but most, including those two, are just tall tales. Let’s do a quick check of what’s true and false… Cats hate water Most breeds aren’t keen on getting wet, however there are a few breeds that like going for a swim, including Turkish vans, Maine coons, Bengals and Manx. Cats always land on their feet Cats have a ‘righting reflex’ that allows them to twist quickly in the air, however it doesn’t guarantee a safe landing, so it’s a good idea to minimise the risk of your cat falling out of a window or from a balcony. Cats like milk Kittens drink milk from their mother, and that’s where it should end. Any other type of milk can cause problems. In fact, most cats are lactose intolerant. You can’t train a cat You can and you should! Apart from providing mental stimulation, skills such as being happy to enter a cat carrier can prove very useful for visits to their vet.

GONE FISHIN’

A backyard fishpond can be a point of interest, a joy for young and old and a way to increase biodiversity. Keep it clean and your fish healthy with tips from Brendan Snashall of Aquapro. ■ Position your pond so about half of its surface gets at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, to help aquatic plants grow, and the other half is shaded, to help control temperature, prevent excessive algae growth and reduce evaporation. Shading can be from pond plants, from trees (not directly above the pond) or shade cloth. ■ The pond’s size, aeration and filtration will determine how many fish you can have. Two or three goldfish per 100 litres works – if you want more, native varieties are often smaller and have less impact on their surroundings. ■ Plants are important for a pond’s aesthetic and the ecosystem benefits. Aim for about 20-40 per cent plant coverage, using a mix of full aquatic (like waterlilies) and marginal plants (like reeds). ■ While plants will provide some food for your fish, you’ll still need to top up with fish food, especially in warmer months. Before installing a pond, check your local authority’s safety regulations and guidelines. Always closely supervise children around any body of water, including dog paddling pools.

Northfin Goldfish Formula 2mm fish food, 100g, I/N: 0521004*

Pond picks

Aquapro ‘Rock Look’ 100L small fibreglass pond, $296.06, I/N: 2920249. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

3 Bacopa ‘Brahmi’ water plant

This product is available to buy online only and is sold and delivered by a Bunnings Marketplace Trusted Seller. Not all items are available in all states and territories. *Delivery charges may apply.

COOL IT

HERE’S HOW TO KEEP PETS COMFY THROUGH THE STICKY HEAT OF SUMMER

lanning to wear a fur coat over the next few months? Almost certainly not, so spare a thought for our furry friends, who have fewer wardrobe choices and need extra care in warmer weather. Dr David Lee, president of Australian Small Animals Veterinarians, part of the Australian Veterinary Association, says hot weather can place animals at risk of heat stress, especially thick-coated breeds such as golden retrievers and huskies, flat-faced dogs such as bulldogs and pugs (because they can’t breathe properly to cool down), and cat breeds such as exotic shorthairs or Persians. “Pets with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions, or who are overweight, are also at risk,” he says. Cats and dogs cool off through the pads of their feet and tongues, so they need to pant to regulate their temperature. To help your pets keep their cool and protect them from heatrelated health issues, follow these tips.

Words Jen Walker. Photography Getty Images. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings. Pet products are not available in WA, except Armadale and Bunbury stores. **Source: justsixminutes.com.au.

Provide hydration

Make sure there is plenty of cool, fresh water available at all times, placed in shady areas. Throw in a few ice cubes to help keep the temperature down.

Give icy treats

Put a few of your dog’s treats in the freezer and give them as an iceblock on really hot days. They’ll help cool your pet down – and give them something to do while you’re out.

Find shade

Homemade icy poles are a tasty, fun treat but check with your vet which fruits are suitable for your dog, and don’t let them chew on the stick!

Get a haircut

If you own a long-haired dog, consider giving them a trim to help them cope better in the summer months.

Walk early or late

Avoid exercise in the hottest part of the day and take dogs for a walk in the very early morning or late evening, when the temperature is much lower. This will also help avoid your pet burning their paws on hot footpaths or roads.

Bring them inside

Provide shady areas for shelter during the day. Even better, put a paddling pool with about 5cm of water in a shady spot for your dog to sit in.

On warm days, or if it’s especially humid, and you have airconditioning or fans in your home, your pets will be most comfortable inside with you. This is essential for the higher-risk breeds listed previously, as well as elderly pets. “Older pets are especially vulnerable in the heat, particularly

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if they have mobility and breathing problems, so keep an extra eye on them,” advises Dr David.

STRESS POINTS

Signs of heat stroke include heavy panting, difficulty breathing, fatigue, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and even seizures. If your pet is displaying any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately. Most importantly, never, ever leave your pet in your car or vehicle, even if you don’t think it’s that hot. The RSPCA warns it only takes six minutes for a dog to die from heat stress**.

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SURFACE COVERINGS

PANEL SHOW CLAD YOUR WALLS INSIDE AND OUT TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME Words CHRIS PEARSON

Photography Cath Muscat. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

s design solutions go, cloaking a problem wall – indoors or out – with cladding or panelling is a proven architectural solution. Material options range from aluminium and timber to fibre cement in contemporary profiles, plus stone and brushed-concrete finishes, with location, budget and aesthetic preferences determining selections. The possibilities expand year on year, with widely available panel systems giving renovators the chance to introduce visual interest and texture as a facade element or an interior highlight.

Vertical-join panelling – commonly known as ‘VJ’ – brings textural interest to what might otherwise be a spartan expanse of wall, in areas like entrance hallways bunnings.com.au |

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damage, says Sacha Leagh-Murray from Laminex. The water-resistant range is particularly effective in bathrooms and laundries, she adds, offering a great alternative to tiles in non-splash zones (see below). “As the panels are much larger, they are much faster to install, saving you both time and money,” says Sacha.

Water wise

Timber weatherboard cladding is a beloved feature of Australian period homes – a look that can also be achieved with low-maintenance fibre-cement boards

For exterior surfaces, cladding can prove a game changer, covering unsightly walls in a flash – or used to create unity between new and old sections of a home. Fibre-cement panels are a quick and budget-savvy solution, best installed by experts or those skilled at DIY, says Carlie Roberts of James Hardie. “Our Architectural Collection products can be installed and painted on the same day, once any additional sealants have cured,” she says.

Surface industry

Finding an exterior cladding profile in keeping with the architectural style of your home is a simple prospect nowadays, with manufacturers meeting the market for weatherboard looks, modern concrete designs and industrial-style buildings. “Hardie ‘Linea’ fibre-cement weatherboard harnesses the charm of traditional timber weatherboard, but is resistant to shrinking, swelling and cracking and will hold paint longer,” says Carlie. It’s the same story indoors, with cladding profiles that suit both period and contemporary homes. Browse Easycraft’s ‘easyVJ’ range for a Queenslander or Hamptons look, and the ‘Expression’ series for on-trend geometric grooved patterns such as chevron and honeycomb. 38 bunnings.com.au |

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Space mission

Using exterior panels can deliver space-saving benefits for the footprints of extensions and new dwellings. “For example, Hardie ‘Axon’ cladding adds just 9mm to the depth of the wall. Brick veneer adds 130mm,” explains Carlie. “So for a 250sqm footprint, if you use cladding instead of brick veneer, you could gain enough interior area for a study nook, powder room or valuable storage space.”

Interior vision

Whether you have a period home or a contemporary dwelling, wall panels can cover a multitude of sins, such as uneven surfaces or walls with water

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Getting the hang

The appeal of cladding has always been its transformative powers – at pace! Installing decorative interior wall panels is “remarkably straightforward” and can be completed by a tradie in hours, says Sacha, but it is also achievable for the savvy DIYer. Best of all, most interior wall panels are available primed and ready to paint. Perhaps the most difficult part is selecting the product and profile most suited to your project.

CLAD TO BE HERE

Interior designer Sarah Cosentino of Studio Esteta (studioesteta.com. au) used Surround by Laminex in this recent project to striking effect. “The range is so versatile and can be used in many different settings,” she says. In the living room (right), Sarah created a feature wall using the classic ‘VJ 100’ profile painted in Dulux Spores, while in the bedroom, a wall in ‘Scallop 45’ complements the bedhead in broader ‘Scallop 135’ profile.

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Photography (above) Gap Interiors/Penny Wincer, (below) Eve Wilson. Paint colours may vary on application.

Outside chance

Bathrooms are built in layers, says DIY specialist Natasha Dickins (@littleredindustries). “Bare studs and noggins of the wall framing are usually first lined with fibre cement (FC) sheeting suited to wet areas,” she says. “The floor, shower and splash zones, such as around the basin, are then waterproofed and tiled. Walls that don’t take direct water can be clad in water-resistant panels.” It’s important to note that waterproofing has to comply with strict Australian Standards, so engage a professional for that part of the job, advises Natasha.

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PEST CONTROL

Photography living4media/Cecilia Möller. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

ummer is peak party season for flies and mozzies, as their populations swell and they descend in droves into your garden, and ultimately infiltrate your home. But there’s plenty you can do to discourage them from hanging around both outdoors and in, and protect yourself from itchy bites. Here are a few natural defence strategies for keeping irritating flying insects at bay.

No-f ly zone KEEN TO DETER PESKY FLYING VISITORS? CHECK OUT THESE NON-TOXIC WAYS TO PUT A STOP TO INSECT INVASIONS Words KYLIE JACKES bunnings.com.au |

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For a pretty, mozzie-free outdoor dining experience, add flameless LED candles to your table, then place citronella candles around the edge of the deck or patio, taking care not to leave them unattended when lit

The best way to keep out an array of insects and creepy crawlies is to install window and door screens. You can get kits to make your own custom-sized frames and pair them with off-the-shelf rolls of flyscreen mesh. For the ultimate in protection, opt for Cyclone’s Miniweave Flyscreen, which keeps out super-tiny insects. Adjustable flyscreen doors are designed to fit a range of different sizes, while existing screens in need of repair can be patched. Another screening solution for a peaceful night’s sleep – or alfresco siesta – is a mosquito net canopy, which can be used inside and out.

Self-defence

Whether relaxing in the garden or enjoying a barbie on the deck at dusk, take proactive measures to ensure you’re not a mozzie magnet. Wear tight-weave fabrics, long-sleeve shirts and long pants to help prevent you getting bitten. Horticulturist and sustainability specialist Adam Woodhams (@adamhwoodhams) says personal bug sprays and DIY spritzers made with essential oils can also deter mosquitoes. “Lavender oil works best," he says. "You can dab essential oil on pulse points (neck, behind ears, inside

wrists and behind knees) every hour or so, or make up a mix of 5 per cent oil with 95 per cent rubbing alcohol and put it in a spray bottle to apply to your skin,” says Adam.

Spring a trap

If you have large pesky insect populations, consider reducing the numbers with traps. Jordon McKeon from Gecko says bug-zapper lanterns and trappers use UV light to attract a diverse array of airborne insects and, depending on the device, have different mechanisms to eliminate or confine the bugs. As they operate continuously, they provide long-term protection against insects. “For best results, hang at a height of about 2.5 metres and place away from your entertainment area and competing light sources,” advises Jordon. Another great option is the EnviroSafe fly trap, which lures flies away from the house. Ideal for hanging in the garden, the trap contains an effective, non-toxic bait that flies find irresistible. To capture indoor flying pests, try a sleek off-the-shelf glue trap, or target specific areas near sinks, indoor bins and fruit bowls with a Yates Home Pest indoor fruit fly trap, which uses a pesticide-free liquid lure.

Photography Cath Muscat, styling Samantha Pointon; (opposite, plants) Getty Images.

Screen out

“Mosquitoes are really a nocturnal pest. During the day they will seek out plants in cool, shady spots to provide them with shelter until nightfall” Adam Woodhams, horticulturist and sustainability specialist

Natural deterrents

consider storing the fruit bowl in the fridge over the warmer months, and ensure the kitchen bin area is kept clean and food rubbish is properly sealed and disposed of in an enclosed bin, away from entertaining areas.

Blow out

While we love the breeze generated by a fan during the hot months, flies and mozzies don’t, as it impacts their ability to fly. Interrupt their flight zone with floor or ceiling fans set at high speed and positioned to direct moving air downward.

Still waters

“There are many plants considered as ‘insect repellent’ through the aromatics in their oils,” explains Adam. While certain repellent varieties need to be brushed against or bruised to release their oil, other types naturally release fragrance. “Those considered to have the best repelling properties include golden oregano, feverfew, various basils, lavenders, dogbane, lemongrass and other plant varieties with a strong lemon fragrance,” says Adam. Try growing pots of these on decks, windowsills and by front and back doors. The aroma from citronella and lemongrass candles, diffusers and incense sticks can also be effective and smell great, too.

Cut off supply

Flies often flock to food and waste, so banish their free buffet and, whenever possible, don’t leave uncovered food out. Clean up any food or drink spills as quickly as possible,

“Mozzies are an important part of the planet's ecosystems because their larvae are food for a host of pond-dwelling creatures," explains Adam. "However, as they can breed in even small amounts of predator-free standing water, as little as one to two centimetres deep, minimising potential breeding spots around the house and garden can help prevent a population explosion.” He recommends filling the edges of saucers under plants, where water may gather, with small washed pebbles or fine gravel. If you have a garden pond or outdoor water feature, add a pump to create circulation, and eliminate any spots where water may collect and stand – for example, items such as a forgotten bucket, pet water bowl or upturned play equipment. “Don’t overlook gutters and drains,” adds Adam. “If they get clogged with leaves and other debris, they can easily hold water.”

BUZZ OFF!

Choose from these non-toxic buys, to send flying insects on their way ZAPPERS & TRAPPERS

SCREENING & NETS

FRAGRANCE

PLANTS

Basil

Irresistible to flies!

Quick fix

6 7

4 8

Lemongrass

Lasts up to seven hours

Lavender

1 Gecko ‘Bionic’ 12V lantern bug trapper, $54, I/N: 0207442. 2 EnviroSafe fly trap, $19.82/pack of 2, I/N: 3010370. 3 Yates ‘Home Pest’ indoor fruit fly trap, $13.43/pack of 2, I/N: 0280555. 4 Gecko ‘Sticky Glue’ insect trapper, $36.14, I/N: 3340513. 5 Permastik fly screen repair patches, $4.50/pack of 3, I/N: 3961348. 6 Pillar ‘Link Screen’ 2040mm x 1000mm pleated flyscreen door, $219, I/N: 0247530. 7 Cyclone ‘Pro-Fly’ 1200mm x 1200mm flyscreen frame kit in Black, $34.95, I/N: 0335698 (mesh sold separately). 8 Cyclone single to king size bed canopy mosquito net, $29.95, I/N: 0335696. 9 Settlers essential oil insect repellent candle, $8/105g, I/N: 0312366. 10 Waxworks citronella glass oil burner with snuffer cap, $11.30, I/N: 0207445. 11 Marquee steel tin citronella candle in Blue, $3.66, I/N: 0459570. 12 Waxworks citronella coil incense diffuser, $14.95, I/N: 3340508. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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UPDATE IT

BUYER’S GUIDE

STEP ON IT THE LATEST FLOORING OPTIONS COMBINE SLEEK GOOD LOOKS WITH RUGGED RESILIENCE

Photography Larnie Nicolson, styling Sam van Kan. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

Words JANE PARBURY

hoosing the right flooring for your home – or even a single room – can be tricky. It needs to tick aesthetic boxes while also being sufficiently tough to cope with foot traffic (and potentially the patter of paws), spills and scratches. It should be easy to keep clean, feel fabulous underfoot... oh, and there’s a budget to meet. Here’s a guide to what’s new on the ground.

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Timber flooring comes in solid boards or engineered flooring, plus you can get the look with vinyl, laminate, hybrid flooring and even ceramic tiles – with a shade to go with just about any aesthetic. Bunnings trend and design specialist Mindy Mason says there’s been a transition recently towards lighter, sun-kissed blonde wood and warm,

Hybrid heroes

Combining vinyl and laminate, hybrid flooring is increasingly the go-to for a highly practical, good-looking surface. Eloise Hamilton of Hanwood (distributed by QEP) advises checking the wear layer of hybrid flooring, as this determines its suitability for heavy use. “Thicker wear layers are more resistant to scratches and dents,

The tile files

Hard-wearing, easy to maintain, waterproof and available in countless colours and patterns, tiles come in materials like ceramic, porcelain, cement and natural stone, and have long been the first choice in wet areas. They can also look fantastic in large format, neutral tones in living spaces. “There is a noticeable preference for lighter, warm shades that blend well

The soft stuff

Delivering cosiness and comfort underfoot, with superior noisereduction properties, rugs offer myriad opportunities. And sustainability is key, says Mindy: “There’s a surge in ecofriendly materials like jute, bamboo and organic cotton.” Patterns inspired by nature, such as wood grain, marble and stone, are also trending, she says, as are mid-century design elements

inviting natural hues. Oversized, wider planks in darker hardwoods and faux wood are also increasingly popular, she says. Beyond straight boards, look for chevron or herringbone patterns. “This style of laying not only creates a sense of movement from one room to the next, but also accentuates the natural character and beauty of the wood material used,” says Mindy.

making them ideal for areas with a lot of foot traffic,” she says. “Hybrid flooring is also resistant to moisture and water damage.” You can find hybrid flooring in a range of style-centric timberand stone-look finishes. “There’s a growing interest in stone or concrete-effect flooring for a natural yet minimalist look,” says Eloise.

with the blonde, beachy wood flooring trend,” says Mindy. “The combination creates a balanced appearance, perfectly aligning with the current wellness trend in interior design, and can be extended to the outdoors seamlessly.” Bold and vibrant patterns – from geometric designs to intricate Moroccan-inspired motifs – continue to be popular, she says.

and flooring that incorporates global and ethnic patterns, designs and materials. Layering rugs of different textures and sizes is increasingly popular and a great way to add depth, warmth and personality to a room, says Mindy. Check out the new range of machine-washable rugs in store from March for the ultimate pretty-meets-practical floor covering.

Photography (timber) Larnie Nicolson; (hybrid) Susannah Blatchford; (tiles) Sue Stubbs; (rug) Alex Reinders; (opposite, top right) Getty Images. †Available to order online or at the Special Orders Desk.

Wood looks

Pentarch Forestry 130mm x 19mm tongue and groove solid blackbutt flooring, I/N: 0280209†

Harris Wood 12mm engineered timber in Victorian Oak, $35/sqm ($71.19/2.034sqm), I/N: 0374466

Pentarch Forestry 85mm x 19mm tongue and groove solid blue gum flooring, I/N: 0280212†

KEEP IT CLEAN

HanWood ‘Design’ 6mm hybrid waterproof tile in Honed Slate, $96.54/sqm ($215.29/2.23sqm), I/N: 0144296†

HanWood ‘Design’ 6mm hybrid waterproof flooring in Desert Sand, $97.86/sqm ($215.29/2.2sqm), I/N: 0144297†

HanWood ‘Home’ 5mm hybrid waterproof flooring in Capella Oak, $27.95/sqm ($73.78/2.64sqm), I/N: 0205499

Timber and hybrid flooring Sweep or vacuum regularly, and go over the surface with a slightly damp cloth or mop to shift most stains. Tiles Sweep up loose debris and mop with a proprietary cleaner for tiles and grout. Reapply grout sealant at least once a year to protect against dirt and stains. Rugs Vacuum regularly. For stains, check the care label. Gentle spot-cleaning is fine on most materials, including natural fibres. Blot the stain – don’t rub – and extract as much moisture as possible, so the rug dries quickly.

Duratile ‘Pietra’ 60cm x 60cm porcelain floor/wall tile in Grey, $33.48/carton of 3 ($31/sqm), I/N: 0271128

Decor8 ‘Gabana’ 200mm x 200mm matt porcelain floor tile in Rubeli, $5.40 each ($135/sqm), I/N: 0289545

Johnson Tiles ‘Desert’ 450mm x 450mm matt ceramic floor tile in Taupe, $43.11/carton of 6 ($35.63/sqm), I/N: 0044504†

5 4

Rug Republic ‘Gabion’ 230cm x 160cm wool rug in Ivory/Grey, $799, I/N: 0117876†

Bayliss ‘Tube’ 230cm x 160cm polypropylene rug, $331, I/N: 0045244

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Bayliss ‘Cortina’ 225cm x 155cm wool rug, $292, I/N: 0045234

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1 Sabco ‘SupaDry’ Gen2 spin mop and bucket, $49, I/N: 0375272. 2 O’Cedar ‘Clean & Shine’ timber floor cleaner, $15.49/450ml, I/N: 4460586. 3 Vanish ‘Preen Gold’ 3 in 1 deep cleaning carpet foam, $11.50/600g, I/N: 0444583. 4 Long Life ‘Mop & Glo’ floor cleaner, $21.99/5L, I/N: 4467395. 5 Sabco 2 sided microfibre flip mop, $23.98, I/N: 0067290. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings |

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DO IT

EQUIPMENT UPGRADE

NEW YEAR, NEW TOOLS GET ON TOP OF YOUR DIY GAME AND MAKE SURE YOUR KIT HAS ALL THE ESSENTIALS Words MITCHELL MCLEAN

Photography (background, nuts and bolts) Getty Images. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

he old saying, ‘A good tradie never blames their tools’, doesn’t hold true for trying to work with blunt blades, dull teeth, broken handles or rusty jaws. Not only will your results suffer, but you’ll waste time and money, and run significant safety risks with sub-par equipment. So whether you have a trusty toolbox or a shedful of stuff, do an audit of your gear to determine what you have, plus what you need and what you don’t. Sort the keepers into ‘rejuvenate and repair’ and the losers into ‘donate and dispose’ piles. Then head in store to pick up any DIY must-haves you’re missing.

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GOOD SAVE!

Claw hammer

If your faithful claw hammer is sporting a cracked handle, a loose head or a severely bent claw, prepare to bid it farewell. Not only does a damaged hammer compromise your safety, it also makes tasks like hammering and light demolition less precise. Opt for a sturdy, well-crafted replacement for your protection and efficient operation.

Timber handsaw

If the teeth on your handsaw are dull, chipped or beyond repair, it’s time to invest in a new one. A well-maintained saw with sharp teeth ensures accurate and safe cuts, making it an essential tool for woodworking and DIY projects. When selecting a handsaw, prioritise quality and tooth count for optimal performance.

Screwdriver set

Damaged, rounded over and slipping screwdriver tips are clear signs that a fresh set is on the DIY cards. Well-maintained screwdrivers are indispensable for precise and controlled work, and having the right size with an undamaged tip is crucial for preventing damage to fasteners and surfaces. Opting for a complete kit ensures you’re always prepared for the task at hand.

Retractable tape measure

‘Measure twice, cut once’ is among the most valuable DIY advice, so when your retractable tape measure no longer releases, the hook is damaged or the numbers wear off, you need to give it the heave-ho. Accurate measurements are key to every job, whether you’re sizing up timber for a cut or ensuring a new fridge fits into a space. Available from 3m up to a whopping 60m, a tape measure is an invaluable part of every household, let alone toolkit.

Adjustable wrench set

When your wrench jaws slip, causing damage to bolt heads, or the thumbscrew seizes up, becoming hard to turn, it’s time to invest in a replacement. An adjustable, medium-sized wrench is an excellent all-purpose choice. Alternatively, wrench sets ensure you’ll always have the right size, whatever the job.

AT YOUR DISPOSAL

Need to get rid of worn-out power tool batteries? Tape over the terminals, bring them in store and pop into the Battery Recycling Unit 50 bunnings.com.au |

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You can’t just toss power tools or hand tools such as saws and hedge loppers in the bin, and kerbside collection is a no-no, so how do you safely dispose of them? Broken items can be taken to hard waste or recycling facilities (check with your council for places near you), while sound tools you have outgrown or upgraded may be donated to community groups.

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■ Keep tools clean

and well maintained to extend their life (see Watch it! below). ■ Borrow or rent specialised tools, such as a floor sander or compactor, for one-off use instead of buying them, saving money and space in your shed. Visit the Hire Shop in store or at bunnings.com.au/ products/hire-shop. ■ Buy the best-quality tools you can afford. They may seem expensive, but are often more durable so can save you money in the long run. LEFT (from top) Trojan 570g (20oz) fibreglass claw hammer, $17.98, I/N: 0131356. Irwin ‘Universal Plus 880’ handsaw, $19.98, I/N: 0147223. Stanley ‘Essentials’ 19 piece screwdriver set, $29.98, I/N: 0335408. Stanley ‘Control Lock’ 8m tape measure, $19.97, I/N: 0400603. Craftright 4 piece adjustable wrench set, $29.98, I/N: 6117702. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Keep in mind… n When using power tools,

always wear the recommended safety gear.

Scan the QR code Can’t bear to part with your favourite tool? Try restoring it: bunnings.com. au/how-to-clean-rusty-tools

Watch it!

SUMMER LIVIN’

SET ASIDE A WEEKEND TO SCREEN OFF YOUR DECK AND CREATE A SUN-DAPPLED RETREAT

Project, photography and styling NATASHA DICKINS

Monstera in Northcote Pottery 37cm self watering pot in White Terrazzo, $29.90, I/N: 0088216, on Eden 35cm round pot plant trolley, $9.98, I/N: 2871152 (plant sold separately). Mimosa ‘Malibu’ 1 seater lounge, $299, I/N: 0177346. Deck treated with Cabot’s ‘Deck & Exterior’ water based timber stain in Beach House Grey, $121/4L, $121, I/N: 1520191. All other products, stylist’s own.

xtend the use of your outdoor space with a screen to cut glare and create privacy. It’s easily achieved with lasercut bamboo fence extensions sandwiched between a painted timber frame.

DO IT

CREATE PRIVACY

Tools & materials

Paint colours may vary on application. •Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.

n Safety equipment (eye and ear protection, mask, gloves) n Drill with 8G combination countersinking and driver bits n String with line level n Tape measure and pencil n Mitre saw n Quick-grip clamps n Level n Mini roller with tray and spare covers n Circular saw with straightedge n 180-grit abrasive paper with sanding block n Microfibre cloth n 30mm offcut as a spacer n 2400mm length of 90mm x 42mm primed H3 LOSP treated pine• n 14G x 70mm galvanised batten screws n 80mm x 40mm galvanised angle bracket n 8G x 30mm galvanised button head screws n Post offcut for frame support n Four 5400mm lengths of 92mm x 18mm primed H3 LOSP treated pine• n 8G x 40mm galvanised timber screws n 5400mm length of 42mm x 18mm primed H3 LOSP treated pine• n Exterior paint n Five 2400mm x 500mm bamboo fence extension panels n 20 timber cover caps n Construction adhesive with applicator n Clear marine-grade varnish n 8G x 25mm galvanised timber screws n Exterior timber filler

1 To screen your space, ensure there are two solid fixing points, then adjust the height of the panels and the timber lengths to suit. We secured a 90mm x 42mm H3 pine post to the house wall studs with 70mm batten screws. Our frame uses five 500mm-wide panels with 30mm gaps. Tip: Predrill all holes with a combination countersinking bit.

2 Run a string line level between the posts to measure and mark the top of the frame under the rafter and the base in line with the deck fascia. To centre a support at the base, predrill to secure an angle bracket face down into the side of the deck with 30mm button screws. With a mitre saw, cut a post offcut to fit inside the bracket to the string line, predrill and secure through the top of the bracket.

3 Cut four 92mm H3 pine rails to span between posts along front and back of the panels. Clamp front rails at the top and base, check for level, predrill and secure with 40mm screws. Cut two 42mm sides to fit between the rails, predrill and secure to posts. Cut four 92mm uprights the same length as the sides. Tip: Before assembling, apply two coats of exterior paint to the pine pieces to seal ends.

4 Using a circular saw, cut the bamboo panels to fit the full height of the frame, trimming equally from both ends. Sand with 180-grit abrasive paper, install cover caps in the original centre holes with construction adhesive, and wipe away dust with a cloth. Apply two coats of marine varnish with a roller, leaving to dry after each coat.

5 Predrill through the base rail into the frame support, securing with 40mm screws. Clamp the first panel flush with the frame edges, predrill and secure with 25mm screws. Use a 30mm spacer to position and clamp the remaining panels, predrill and secure. Note: Our rails are 2620mm long, the bamboo panels are 2150mm high and the sides and uprights are 1970mm long.

6 Position and clamp a back rail along the top of the panels, predrilling to avoid the screws underneath and secure with 25mm screws. Centre the uprights between the panels to secure down the sides, then install the back base rail. Smooth over all screws with filler, leave to dry, then sand and touch up with paint on the frame and varnish on the panels.

DIY TOOLKIT

1 Woodhouse Weatherproof 92mm x 18mm H3 FJ DAR primed LOSP treated pine, 5.4m, I/N: 0020740•. 2 Bondall ‘Monocel Gold’ marine grade timber varnish in Clear Satin, $30.96/500ml, I/N: 1521647. 3 Lattice Makers ‘Midnight Garden’ 2400mm x 500mm bamboo fence extension, $108, I/N: 0172329. 4 Taskmaster 9.5mm timber cover buttons, $3.68/pack of 10, I/N: 0290553. 5 Empire 75mm aluminium line level, $9.48, I/N: 0034495. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

2 3

1 Keep in mind... n Work in a well-ventilated area and wear safety gear when using power tools, sanding, painting and varnishing. n This structure is decorative and not for climbing or swinging on.

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DO IT

ECO EFFICIENCY

ways to save every drop

DO YOUR BIT FOR THE PLANET AND YOUR HIP POCKET WITH THESE SIMPLE TIPS FOR SAVING WATER There’s no need to pre-wash dishes before loading in the dishwasher – a quick wipe of bigger food bits will do. Keep showers to four minutes – set a timer or use a shower radio and time your wash to the length of a song. And while you wait for the water to heat up, catch it in a bucket to use on the garden – but don’t use water captured during your shower as it will be full of soap.

Use it twice

DIY a greywater hose that connects to the washing machine and directs water to your lawn. Georgia Liversage at Holman says not to use this on edible or flower beds. “Opt for a low-phosphorus washing powder and try to reduce the amount you use,” she says. Otherwise, use a bucket and treat the greywater before putting it on your garden, says Angie Thomas of Yates. “There are special greywater additives to help neutralise the effect of alkaline soaps and detergents on soil pH, that also contain calcium to help reduce the negative effects of greywater on soil quality, and a biocide to help kill unwanted microbes,” she says. “Don’t store untreated

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greywater for more than 24 hours (due to the potential growth of microbes) or use it to water edibles. If watering native and other phosphorussensitive plants with greywater, use a low- or no-phosphorus detergent.” Yates ‘Greywater Fertiliser’ additive, $18.02/1L, I/N: 02034866

Good timing

When watering your garden, make sure every drop goes where it’s needed. “Water as close to the roots as possible,” says Georgia. “We suggest using a dripping hose laid across a garden bed.” If buying a sprinkler for lawns, look for one with a windresistant jet spray. Set timers to water in the coolest part of the day. “You can choose from manual, digital, bluetooth or wi-fi tap timers or controllers, for backyards that may have multiple watering zones,” says Georgia. Holman 30m weeper hose, $49, I/N: 3120264. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Watch WELS

Check the water efficiency of your bathroom fittings. Dualflush toilets have been standard for quite some time, but if yours is a single flush, you may be able to change it – Bunnings can organise installation of a replacement toilet‡. Modern shower design has also made great strides and a replacement showerhead may be a straightforward retrofit with enormous benefits to both your water and energy bills. Showering has the potential to significantly add to your household water consumption, says Andy Grigor of Caroma. “So having a waterefficient shower could have a big impact.” Caroma ‘Luna’ WELS 5 star, 6L/min multifunction rail shower in Chrome, $224, I/N: 0180873

Tap tweaks

If your home is fitted out with inefficient fixtures, try these easy solutions. Install aerators – these screw onto the end of taps and give you the feel of a generous flow without using loads of water. Some even swivel,

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EnduraSeal WELS 5 star 6L/min female multi-function swivel aerator in Chrome, $15.50, I/N: 4980128

which is a great bonus function for rinsing the sink. Flow restrictors are a simple solution for the shower when you don’t want to replace the showerhead. One of these little discs is affordable, quick to install and restricts the water flow to as little as six litres per minute.

Laundry smarts

If you’re in the market for a new washing machine, check the water efficiency rating (WELS), says Liam Gregory, Bunnings national kitchen and laundry buyer. “Look for machines with loadsensing technology, which adjusts the water level based on the size of the load, with shorter cycle lengths and settings for smaller loads,” he suggests. Then it’s all about how you use your machine. “Aim to do full loads of laundry to make the most efficient use of water; pre-treat stains to reduce the need for additional wash cycles; and for delicate items or small loads, consider handwashing,” says Liam.

Words Shelley Tustin. ‡Not all services are available in all stores; conditions apply.

Good habits

pool covers & rollers

s ’ a i l a Austr te i r u o Fav

Pool Covers and Rollers Celebrating

STOP evaporation.

SAVE on chemicals. Reduce salt and chemical use by up to 50%.

WARMS your

SAVE on heat loss. Reduced heating costs and heat loss.

SAVE on cleaning.

AUSTRALIAN MADE

Reduces evaporation by 99%.

Helps keep out dirt and leaves.

pool by up to 8ºC for free.

years on top

RT PA 1

Image rendering Alejandro Sosa 3D

CLEANING SPECIAL

27-PAGE SECTION:EXPERT ADVICE + HANDY TIPS + PRODUCTS

Your guide to a spick and span home

Photography Kaboodle Kitchen. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings. Check manufacturer’s manuals for advice before cleaning appliances.

SUMMER CLEANSE PART 1

SWEEP BAD HABITS OUT THE DOOR AND KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH A TIMELY DECLUTTER AND ROOM-BY-ROOM REFRESH

Words KYLIE JACKES

DO IT

CLEANING SPECIAL

Clear all kitchen surfaces and curate favourite items for display

“If you have limited time, direct your energy to cleaning and decluttering the kitchen, as it’s a central part of the home and should be functional and feel great to be in”

Arwen Dropmann, professional organiser

very household has its weak points. And blind spots, too! It’s easy to allow mess levels to rise and ignore areas in need of attention when life gets busy. Yet with a fresh perspective and our room-by-room checklist filled with expert tips, you’ll be inspired to tackle tasks, get organised and achieve sparkling results.

Kitchen

Pantry priorities After the festive season, shop your own pantry and use up what you already have to avoid overbuying. Professional organiser Arwen Dropmann, of Calm Space Professional Organising (calmspaceorganising.com.au), says whittling down the contents will also free up space for improved storage systems. “For a complete pantry reset, empty and wipe shelves, discard expired foods, group items by category and position on a suitable shelf based on use,” explains Arwen.

“This may mean lower storage containers for school lunchbox or afternoon snack options, and placing less regularly used items at the back.” For hard-to-reach areas, consider tiered shelving and turntables. Fridge-freezer fix Optimise cold storage with a thorough fridge and freezer clean-out. Sally and William Jongejan of Nest Home Services (nestcleaningbrisbane.com.au)

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recommend emptying everything out and discarding what’s no longer needed, plus out-of-date items. A handy tip is to temporarily store items in a cold bag and Esky containing freezer bricks while you’re cleaning. “Inside the fridge and freezer, work top to bottom using warm soapy water to scrub and wipe the door, shelves and crevices, and wash out crispers in the sink,” says Sally. bunnings |

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QUICK BLITZES

■ Wash out the dishwasher filter and run it on a cleaning cycle. ■ To degrease rangehood filters, Sally and William Jongejan recommend popping them in the dishwasher. ■ Enlist a second set of hands to pull out the fridge. “Once out the way, it only takes a few minutes to clean the floor area and wipe the surrounding walls,” says William.

Drawer declutter Arwen Dropmann advises letting go of unpaired containers and lids, as well as singlejob utensils. “Large, deep drawers are better for storing containers than cupboards, as you can see and reach everything easily,” she says. “Alternatively, separate containers and lids and stack them into pull-out baskets, stored on a cupboard shelf.”

Shimmering stainless Revamp stainless steel appliances by gently scrubbing in the direction of the grain, using a microfibre cloth and solution of dishwashing detergent and water. For stubborn marks and surface rust, use a DIY paste made of bicarbonate of soda and water. Finish with a thorough wipe, using a slightly damp cloth for a streak-free sheen.

Sort often-used cutlery in the top drawer, and use deep, lower drawers for larger items

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Photography Kaboodle Kitchen

Oven overhaul Banish baked-on grease with a good-quality oven cleaner. Put on gloves and a mask, open a window for ventilation, then spray the cleaner generously over oven interior surfaces, and let it sit for at least an hour. After a thorough scrub and rinse, William says the important final step is to turn the oven on hot for at least an hour, before using it for cooking.

Advertising promotion

Good clean fun What better time than summer to freshen up your home? Discover how satisfying, easy and even colourful cleaning can be with the Oates range at Bunnings ADD A SPLASH OF COLOUR TO YOUR KITCHEN!

NOW AVAILABLE AT BUNNINGS

Oates Rainbow Antibacterial Sponge Scourers nA ntibacterial features inhibit the growth of germs and odours, keeping sponges fresher for longer nH eavy-duty scourer removes tough grease and grime nH ighly absorbent foam backing in red, blue, yellow and green. Oates ‘Rainbow’ antibacterial sponge scourers, $6.99/ pack of 8, I/N: 0469593

EASILY CLEAN PET HAIR Oates Electrostatic Pet Hair Brush n Attracts and gathers pet hair and dirt from surfaces quickly and effectively n Handheld and easy to

use for all areas in and out of the home n Ideal for couches, car upholstery and clothing n Uniquely shaped to fit into tight spots ensuring no stray fur is left behind Oates n Long-lasting and durable, electrostatic simply rinse and reuse pet hair brush, again and again. $5.50, I/N: 4480627

Oates Electrostatic Telescopic Broom nE lectrostatic properties attract and remove pet hair and dirt nS uitable for all surface types, including floorboards, tiles and carpets nA djustable handle extends to 1.38m, ideal for any height nR ubber bristles also scrub grime, mould and algae nF eatures a squeegee blade to leave surfaces clean and dry.

Oates electrostatic telescopic broom, $19.29, I/N: 0316685

GET YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE READY FOR SUMMER HOSTING Oates Long Handle Deck Scrub Brush nS hort, stiff bristles remove dirt and particles from outdoor surfaces including decking, concrete and patios nB uilt-in scraper for stubborn build-ups nR obust 1.4m powdercoated handle. Oates long handle deck scrub brush, $15.49, I/N: 4460246

Oates 450mm Outdoor Broom nS trong, stiff bristles – ideal for concrete, pavers and outdoor surfaces nL ightweight and easy to use nR emoves debris, dirt and dust quickly and effectively from all surfaces. Oates 450mm outdoor broom, $28.29, I/N: 4480174

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Keep all cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.

LAUGH AT THE MESS WITH OATES

Offering a range of high-quality, durable and easy-to-use products, Oates takes the fuss out of cleaning, so you can get back to enjoying life quick smart!

Scan to learn more about the range of Oates cleaning products at Bunnings.

@oatescleaningproducts @oatescleaningproducts

Furry old mate think he’s a professional window cleaner?

Living areas Fabric fresh For a professional clean, hire a Britex carpet cleaner with upholstery attachments and set to work deep-cleaning upholstered furniture, carpet and rugs. It’s easy to use and the instant results make this task incredibly satisfying. Off the wall If your walls are a patchwork of scratches, scuffs and crayon marks, arm yourself with a bucket of warm water containing a few capfuls of sugar soap and some microfibre cloths. Using a gentle circular scrubbing motion, work systematically top to bottom, left to right, and you’ll be amazed by the difference. Address the most stubborn marks with an eraser pad.

Photography Kaboodle Kitchen

Floor work A common area that can be overlooked when cleaning is under furniture, says Rita Dossis of Maid in Melbourne (maidinmelbourne. com.au). “When you lie on the sofa, you can often see under chairs or TV units, so don’t forget to vacuum right into these areas,” she says. “If you have children or pets, there also might be toys, socks or fur that collect, which should be scooped up and removed.” A handy tool to reach beneath furniture can be a microfibre flip mop, which can be used to capture dust and lost toys. Shake up A quick job when there’s good weather is to refresh rugs and cushions. Take floor rugs outside, give them a thorough shake out and hang them in the sun for an airing. Follow the care instructions on cushion covers and throw rugs, wash and hang out to dry. When replacing covers, give cushions a plump to restore shape.

Keep dust at bay with regular surface wipe-downs. Clean wicker with a soft sponge dipped into a mild dish soap and water solution

CLEAN AND COOL

To clean ceiling fan blades, use a slightly damp microfibre cloth and a multipurpose spray. Keep a bucket of clean water at the ready to rinse the cloth after each blade is wiped over. “Regular airconditioning maintenance and cleaning is also important to help ensure good working order and prevent the spread of dust through the air,” says William Jongejan. He also recommends getting units professionally checked annually. “Depending on the filter, you can either vacuum or scrub them down and leave to dry.”

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FURNITURE REVIVAL

Photography Kaboodle Kitchen

Keep pieces in good shape with TLC. Revive leather with a gentle clean to remove stains and grime, followed by a nourishing conditioning cream. Timber furniture will come up beautifully with a coat of timber wax or beeswax and a buff. For scuffed and scratched timber, try a reviveand-disguise product, such as Gilly’s Scratch Cover.

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Advertising promotion

Sabco’s new all-in-one mop system can help to keep your home hygienically clean

Floor show Power through your cleaning with the super-absorbent, mess-busting new mop set from Sabco

he good ol’ sponge mop has long been a favourite tool of houseproud cleaners. Offering excellent absorbency and control, there’s plenty to justify the staying power of this cleaning cupboard staple. But an innovative revamp has made the sponge mop better than ever: introducing the Sabco Clean & Go Sponge Mop Set!

MESS ERASER The super-thick natural cellulose sponge on the Sabco Clean & Go mop is made for mess. This ultra-absorbent sponge soaks up water and spills in an instant, and makes light work of grime by sucking dirt into its pores for a superior clean. The mop’s slimline design also allows it to reach into the tightest spaces, so no mess is out of reach. With two refills in the set, you’ll always have a fresh sponge on hand.

THE PERFECT PARTNER The other half of the Clean & Go partnership is the innovative mop bucket. This all-in-one system rinses the mop clean and then lifts it up above the water to wring it dry. Simply fill the bucket to the clearly marked fill line, then use the guide channels on the bucket to insert the mop and wring it clean. This nifty system keeps all the water contained in the bucket, and your hands clean, thanks to the hands-free design.

SMALL PACKAGES The slender rectangular bucket is perfectly designed to fit the mop (no levering a rectangular mop sideways into a round bucket), without any space wasted. When you’re done, the efficient, space-saving design of both the mop and bucket means they can be tucked away neatly until next time.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Keep all cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.

Sabco ‘Clean & Go’ sponge mop set, $37.99, I/N: 0469174

SIDE OF STYLE

Can’t get enough of cleaning? Find bathroom, laundry and outdoor room tips in our February issue, in store January 25

Bedside tables are prime dumping grounds for all sorts of bits and pieces. Clear the entire surface, give it a good dust or wipe and reintroduce a few select pieces. Try a different lamp or shade, then add a book or decorative tray and a small vase with greenery from the garden – the whole room will look and feel more appealing.

Dust bust Create a dust-free environment conducive to a good night’s sleep with a thorough dusting of all surfaces. Rita Dossis recommends starting top to bottom, dusting door and window frames, fan blades, picture rails and dresser surfaces, then working down to bedside tables, skirting boards and sliding wardrobe door tracks. “To make the job easier, use a duster with a telescopic handle to tackle hard-to-reach places, and a couple of slightly damp microfibre cloths that can get into small crevices and corners. Finish with a thorough vacuum,” says Rita. 66 bunnings.com.au |

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Secret storage If the space under the bed has become a catch-all for floor debris – kicked out of not-so-discreet sight – utilise the area properly with good storage. Pull out the ‘hidden’ piles then sort, throw or stow. Roll-out storage containers on wheels are great for items such as out-of-season clothes or shoes. Try Montgomery clear under-bed storage containers. Bed refresh For a crisp, fresh hotel bed look and feel, toss all bed linen, scatter cushion covers and mattress protectors in the wash. Spritz the duvet and pillows with diluted eucalyptus oil and pop out in the sun.

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Remove the mattress and vacuum the bed frame or ensemble edges, which can trap dust. Before remaking the bed with fresh sheets, rotate the mattress end-to-end so it wears evenly. Wardrobe edit If cupboards are bursting at the seams, it’s time to cull and reorganise the contents. Donate items you’re unlikely to wear again, store rarely used garments and accessories in stackable storage containers or space-saving vacuum pack bags, and categorise the contents. It’s visually pleasing to hang like colours together, and unify the look with the same type of hangers.

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Photography Alex Reinders, styling Sharon Begg and Samantha Pointon.

Bedroom

Keeping bedrooms dust-free helps relieve allergy symptoms

Advertising promotion

Messy problems, solved!

Always be prepared for spills, stains and odours, with Britex’s Everyday range

eet the newest member of the Britex family, Chantel Mila, a dynamic mum of two and online sensation known as Mama Mila (@mama_mila_au). As a cleaning hack guru (with more than three million social media followers), Chantel knows her cleaners. With the Britex Everyday range of cleaning solutions, she says you’ll always have the right product on hand for stains, spills and even odours.

EVERYDAY READY

Neutralise pesky odours with a simple spray Tricky messes are no trouble with Spot N Stain

1 Britex ‘Spot N Stain’ stain removal spray, $8.95/500ml, I/N: 4500003. 2 Britex carpet & upholstery wipes, $6.90/pack of 20, I/N: 0405154. 3 Britex urine remover spray, $14.95/ 500ml, I/N: 4500005. 4 Britex grout & tile spray, $9.85/500ml, I/N: 0319727. 5 Britex ‘Odour Blaster’ spray, $14.95/500ml, I/N: 4500006.

Scan the QR code to find out more information about Britex products at Bunnings.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Keep all cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.

Keep Britex carpet and upholstery wipes close at hand, at home and away. In a convenient pack of 20, these wipes feature a special dirt-fighting formulation that can clean up everyday food, drink, dirt and grease spills from kids’ car seats, dining chairs, rugs and more. Britex Spot N Stain has the muscle to make short work of the most challenging messes – chocolate, crayons, oil, mud and more. Spray it on carpets and soft furnishings (it’s gentle on fabrics) as soon as spills happen, or use it to pre-treat any stains you might have missed before deep cleaning. Britex isn’t just for soft surfaces, either! Britex grout and tile spray uses biodegradable active agents to tackle stained grout and lift soap scum, grease and grime from grout and tiles. For the ickiest household jobs, Britex has your back. Britex urine remover spray is an essential for your emergency cleaning kit. The no-touch formula does the work for you – it’s designed to draw moisture and urine stains up and away from carpets, mattresses and upholstery. Just spray and wait, and it’s like the whoopsies never happened. Whether it’s a lingering whiff from a pet accident, smoke, mildew or perspiration, Britex Odour Blaster waves farewell to unpleasant odours. Simply spray it on soft surfaces, from curtains to carpet, and Britex does the rest, neutralising (not masking) smells.

Speedy and simple: push forward to clean, pull back to dry! Hoover ‘Smartwash Essentials’ automatic carpet cleaner, $499, I/N: 0505596

It automatically transitions from washing to drying

the ability to clean effectively in the toughest corners. With a lightweight design and a long cord, you can easily move from the stairs (make short work of these with the WidePath tool) to the couch crevices or tight corners. Hoover ‘CleanSlate’ spot washer, $299, I/N: 0505593

Hoover ‘PowerScrub XL’ carpet washer, $399, I/N: 0517064

Simply the best An immaculate home is within easy reach with tools from the cleaning experts at Hoover

ring your home to a new level of squeaky clean with iconic cleaning brand Hoover, now available at Bunnings. Hoover gives homeowners the tools to tackle everything from everyday dust and stressful spills to ground-in dirt and less-than-adorable leavings from our beloved pets. Best of all, Hoover cleaning products are designed for ease of use, making it quick and simple to make your home’s carpet and upholstery spotlessly clean. Plus, there’s the security of knowing they’re covered with a three-year warranty.

FRESHER FLOORS Giving your carpets a deep clean couldn’t be easier. The Hoover Smartwash Essentials Carpet Cleaner

features triggerless automated wash and dry motion-sensing technology to make the task a breeze – simply push forward to clean and pull back to remove the dirty water and dry. It’s as easy as vacuuming your floor! One for the big jobs, the Hoover PowerScrub XL Carpet Washer gives a whole-home clean – no matter its size. The TruMax recovery tank lets you clean without frequent stops to empty and refill. Five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes loosen and lift deep, set-in stains, while HeatForce drying gives you walkable floors in no time – the Quick Clean mode is even faster, cleaning and drying in half the time! When flexibility is needed, the Hoover CleanSlate Spot Washer gives you

SOLUTION TO EVERY STAIN To get the best from your Hoover cleaner, pair it with a cleaning solution. Hoover Oxy permanent stain removal is a fastacting formula that breaks down even tough, set-in stains. Keep Hoover Oxy tough stain remover spray on hand for quickly targeting the most challenging spills, stains and grime. Pair your Hoover Spot Washer with Hoover Paws & Claws Spot Wash Solution to eliminate pet whoopsies from couch to car. 1 Hoover ‘Oxy’ permanent stain removal cleaning solution, $34.99/1.47L, I/N: 0522760. 2 Hoover ‘Oxy’ tough stain remover spray, $24.99/650ml, I/N: 0522759. 3 Hoover ‘Paws & Claws’ spot wash solution, $29.99/1L, I/N: 0505599.

Advertising promotion Hoover ‘ONEPWR Emerge Pet’ cordless vacuum, $599, I/N: 0505591

FREE TO MOVE ONEPWR UNINTERRUPTED CLEANING The Hoover ONEPWR Emerge+ Cordless Vacuum is everything you want from a cordless vacuum: lightweight, manoeuvrable and effective. It provides the optimal balance between run time and power, but you can easily adjust this – shift the power down for a longer run time on hard surfaces or power up to tackle serious mess. Plus, it converts into a hand-held vacuum by attaching one of the included accessories. The Hoover ONEPWR Emerge Pet Cordless Vacuum features the same highperformance suction and DustVault technology for capturing fine dust particles, plus it includes specialised pet tools for cleaning up after furry family members. The all-terrain dual brush roll floorhead is effective on all floor types, including carpet, hardwood and tiles. The Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet Elite Cordless Vacuum combines an ultra-lightweight design with high-performance power. Plus it includes a Tangle Guard brush roll to prevent hair wrap, an extra-large dirt cup and LED headlights to reveal hidden messes. Pop a ONEPWR battery in the Hoover ONEPWR CleanSlate Pet Cordless Spot Cleaner to tackle tough stains and spills, from coffee to pet messes. Boost mode lifts more liquid, for next-level messes, while the included pet tool is designed specifically for the dirt made by pets.

The Hoover ONEPWR interchangeable battery system delivers incredible performance and the convenience of an uninterrupted whole-house clean. Every ONEPWR product comes with a battery and charger so you’re ready to go! All ONEPWR products run from the same ONEPWR 4Ah battery, which is charged in the conveniently compact Hoover ONEPWR dual bay battery charger (sold separately). The slimline charger can be stored on a countertop or mounted on the wall and charges two batteries, so you always have a back-up.

1 Hoover ‘ONEPWR’ 4.0Ah battery, $149, I/N: 0525019. 2 Hoover ‘ONEPWR’ dual bay battery charger, $99, I/N: 0505594.

Hoover ‘ONEPWR CleanSlate Pet’ cordless spot cleaner, $449, I/N: 0517063

Hoover ‘ONEPWR Evolve Pet Elite’ cordless vacuum, $599, I/N: 0505590 Hoover ‘ONEPWR Emerge+’ cordless vacuum, $499, I/N: 0505592

The cordless range allows you to reach the trickiest of places

Scan the QR code to explore the full range of Hoover products at Bunnings.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Keep all cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.

Store out-of-season clothing

TIDY UP

TOOLS AND PRODUCTS TO KEEP YOUR HOME IN TIPTOP SHAPE

Hide timber scuffs

11 9 10

Follow manufacturer’s instructions for accurate dilution of strong cleaning solutions. Wear a mask and gloves for serious cleaning tasks. Store all cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.

Remove stains on leather

1 Montgomery clear underbed storage container, $15.61/55L, I/N: 0219785. 2 Sukin ‘Signature Scent’ cleansing hand wash pump, $13/1L, I/N: 0469588. 3 Selleys ‘Complete Clean’ lemon citrus multi purpose spray, $3.50/750ml, I/N: 0443235. 4 Mirabella ‘Addidon’ frosted glass and brass table lamp, $69, I/N: 0278372 (globe sold separately). 5 For hire: Britex carpet cleaner, $38.60/24hrs, I/N: 5450012. 6 Sunfresh velvet clothes hangers, $3.97/pack of 10, I/N: 4510670. 7 Easy Off ‘Heavy Duty’ oven and barbecue cleaner spray, $5.75/352g, I/N: 0444586. 8 Gilly’s ‘Scratch Cover’ timber furniture reviver in Dark Wood, $24/ 100ml, I/N: 1851553. 9 Oates wool duster with telescopic handle, $19.79, I/N: 4480333. 10 Flexi Storage ‘Living’ 34cm x 32cm ombre cotton rope basket in White and Grey, $30.03, I/N: 0191269. 11 Mr Clean eraser pad block, $4.98, I/N: 0066425. 12 Morgan microfibre cleaning cloths, $10/pack of 20, I/N: 0349108. 13 Glitz ‘Green’ eucalyptus oil, $15.59/250ml, I/N: 4460484. 14 Flexi Storage medium and large wardrobe vacuum bags, $11.09/pack of 4, I/N: 4470475. 15 Oakwood ‘Deep Clean’ leather care soap, $11.98/500ml, I/N: 0163665. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. bunnings.com.au |

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AWARD WINNING

DO IT

CLEANING SPECIAL

Under review USE THE HOLS OR A MOVE TO CULL, CLEAN AND STREAMLINE EVERY SPACE Words JANE PARBURY

lanning a house shift? There’s a lot to be said for packing a neat stack of containers into a moving box rather than a jumbled mess. The same goes for the Christmas pack-down, or summerto-autumn wardrobe shuffle. So leap into action!

Photography Marcel Aucar, styling Georgia Duncan. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings..

1 Declutter

Have a clear-out. Work systematically through drawers, shelves and cupboards, one room at a time. Remove everything, wipe down the cleared area and only put back things you want to retain. Arrange everything else into donate, sell, repurpose or bin piles, and deal with them accordingly.

2 Get organised

Categorise your belongings, suggests Lachlan King from Flexi Storage. “Group similar items together – this makes it easier to locate and manage them,” he says.

Waist-height shelving and baskets make great use of unused space in a wardrobe

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Before you head in store to choose storage pieces, measure your shelves and drawers to make sure you buy the perfect size

6 Make it match

“With clothing, grouping items based on seasonality allows you to save hanging space in your wardrobe. Soft wardrobe storage organisers are great for storing your winter woollies during the warmer months.”

Find the space

Keep items you use often easily accessible, but for things like platters or party shoes, you can be more inventive. Make the most of high shelves, tuck lidded containers under beds and stack nesting boxes vertically, lightest items at the top – just don’t overload shelves or create a teetering tower.

4 Store by season

Sort your Christmas decorations by type, such as lights and ornaments, says Lachlan King. “Opt for 74 bunnings.com.au |

Review your built-ins. For a wardrobe with halfempty rails, use extra coat hangers for tops and pants to free up drawer space – during a move, you can transfer hanging items straight into a specialised moving container. For a longer-term solution, invest in a retrofit with new shelving, drawers that have organisers and dedicated shoe storage.

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Streamlined storage makes a house move easier. Ada Urbanski of Wrap & Move advises investing in packing supplies such as sturdy moving boxes, packing tape and bubble wrap. “Pack items you use the least first,” she says. “As moving day approaches, put essential items such as a change of clothes, toiletries and important documents in an overnight bag. Label each box with its contents and its room in the new home.”

SHOP

plastic storage bins or containers with secure lids and choose specialised containers for fragile items like glass ornaments,” he says. DIY options include winding tinsel carefully around empty wrapping paper tubes and popping small baubles in an empty egg box, labelled and taped shut.

5 Fit for purpose?

7 Time to move

3 5

1 Bunnings 52L light duty moving carton, $2.50, I/N: 0517130. 2 Flexi Storage ‘Clever Cube’ water hyacinth insert in Natural, $19.82, I/N: 0285878. 3 Flexi Storage ‘Wardrobe’ 400mm 4 drawer unit in White Matt, $99.94, I/N: 0404291. 4 Flexi Storage ‘Living’ 760mm x 380mm x 380mm rectangle linen storage ottoman in Soft Grey, $35, I/N: 0392776. 5 All Set 50L clear modular storage container, $6.95, I/N: 0219783. 6 Practa Solutions timber clothes hangers with bar, $4.99/pack of 5, I/N: 0484052. 7 Flexi Storage ‘Home Solutions’ 185mm 2 runner wire basket in White, $10.90, I/N: 2590158. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

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Photography Alex Reinders, styling Samantha Pointon.

Take extra care when packing away decorations and you’ll be grateful next Christmas!

Choose boxes with compartments for small items like make-up and large plastic tubs with lids for blankets. Be inventive – a tall waste bin could accommodate rolls of wrapping paper, for example. Select clear tubs or wire baskets for items on high shelves, so you can easily identify the contents, and reserve pretty wicker ones for on-show spaces. Note that square containers make better use of shelf space than circular ones.

Scrub Daddy isn’t just a pretty face! You can hold him through his eyes to clean hard-to-reach places

Remove stains from teaspoons with the Scrub Daddy family’s cute smile

Scrub Daddy meets The Pink Stuff to create an effortlessly sparkling home

hat if you could get countless things around your place spotless, just using the right product and a bit of elbow grease? It is possible, and here’s how!

FAMILY FRIENDLY Say hello to Scrub Daddy, a scrubber for all sorts of surfaces. Dunk him in warm water and his FlexTexture® will soften for light cleaning jobs; pop him in cold and he’ll firm up to scour tough stains. Stick your fingers in his eyes to easily clean the bottom of containers, and pop utensils in his mouth to wipe both sides at once – he won’t complain. He’s scratch-free, odour-resistant and – with a rinse under the tap – will come clean again, ready for his next task. The Scrub Daddy Damp Duster will whip dust off shutters, mirrors,

skirtings and so on, trapping the dirt on the sponge. Once it’s grubby, simply rinse and repeat! For trickier tasks, grab Eraser Daddy, who has all the magic of a standard eraser but with 10 times the staying power. Activate him with water and use him to tackle crayon, scuffs and soap scum, among many other things. Scrub Mommy is the perfect pairing to her other half. On one side she’s all FlexTexture®; on the other she has super-absorbent soft ResoFoam®. Add a tad of soap to create a sudsy sensation, for extra cleaning power with minimal product.

The Damp Duster is perfect for grubby shutters, and rinses clean with ease

Say goodbye to shower screen soap scum with Eraser Daddy

Scan the QR code to explore the Scrub Daddy range available in store.

1 Scrub Daddy ‘Original’ scrubber, $18.95/ pack of 4, I/N: 0362817. 2 Scrub Daddy ‘Scrub Mommy’ scrubber & sponge, $18.95/ pack of 4, I/N: 0362818. 3 Scrub Daddy ‘Damp Duster’ duster, $3.49, I/N: 0460156. 4 Scrub Daddy ‘Eraser Daddy’ cleaning eraser, $6.99/pack of 2, I/N: 0460157.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. Test in an unobtrusive area and rinse well after use. Store all cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.

Scour power

Advertising promotion

Use with an old toothbrush to refresh grimy grout lines

Thanks to its thick consistency, The Pink Stuff doesn’t drip off the surface you’re cleaning

THINK PINK The Pink Stuff Miracle Cleaning Paste has become a bit of a legend among cream cleaners. It’s an easy-to-apply paste that doesn’t run or drip, and is tough enough to tackle stains on surfaces like paintwork, UPVC and glass. It can also blitz your barbecue, erase scorch marks, sort out your stove top, get your garden furniture gleaming, deal with rust and more. It’ll even clean your sports shoes! Fall back in love with washday with The Pink Stuff Oxi Stain Remover spray. Perfect as a pre-wash laundry treatment, it’s just what’s needed to say goodbye to grass stains, wine spillages, accidental tomato sauce squirts and more. Or try The Pink Stuff Oxi Powder Stain Remover for colours or whites. Use it as a pre-soaker or add it directly to your washing machine for pristine, sweet-smelling results.

Bring pans and cooktops back to their shiny best

BETTER TOGETHER Grubby bathroom tiles and grout are no match for The Pink Stuff and the Scrub Daddy family. Wipe The Pink Stuff over the surface, leave the paste to work its magic for 10 minutes – its thick consistency means it won’t slide off vertical surfaces – then scour with Scrub Mommy, using her clever corners (or an old toothbrush) to get into the grout lines. Rinse off and hey presto: gleaming tiles!

Scan the QR code to explore The Pink Stuff range available in store.

1 Star Drops ‘The Pink Stuff’ oxi stain remover laundry powder for colours, $14.95/1kg, I/N: 0442840. 2 Star Drops ‘The Pink Stuff’ oxi stain remover laundry powder for whites, $14.95/1kg, I/N: 0442839. 3 Star Drops ‘The Pink Stuff’ oxi stain remover laundry spray, $9.95/500ml, I/N: 0442838. 4 Star Drops ‘The Pink Stuff’ miracle cleaning paste, $8.95/850g, I/N: 0362819.

DO IT

CLEANING SPECIAL

Quick mop Use a damp flat mop (the ones that have a spray bottle built into the handle are ideal) to slide quickly around the messiest bits of the home, like the kitchen or entrance hall. Chip away at Mt Laundry To help contain the washing chaos, home organiser Carmen Strong of Little Strong Home (@littlestronghome and @strongcleaningco) suggests folding and putting away the previous day’s clean washing, then sorting the dirty washing into loads. Give the loo some love Put toilet cleaner in the loo before bed, so it can work overnight – then brush it first thing in the morning. Five minutes tops!

THE ULTIMATE CLEANING GUIDE

(FOR EVERY SCHEDULE!)

THIS HANDY LIST OF TIME-BASED TASKS, FROM QUICK AND EASY WINS TO GET-STUCK-IN PROJECTS, WILL LEAVE YOUR HOME SPARKLING

Photography Cath Muscat, styling Tilly Roberts. Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.

Words SHELLEY TUSTIN

hen life gets busy, just keeping on top of the weekly clean can feel overwhelming; a seasonal deep clean even more so! The secret is ‘chore snacking’ – doing smaller jobs often. Use the time you’ve got – from half an hour to half a day – to make a dent in the dirt and enjoy the satisfaction of ticking a job off the list. Choose your task wisely based on time available, set a timer to keep focused and tackle the most visible tasks when you need a mental boost. We’ve made it easy: just match the job from our following guide to the time you have – and yes, have fun!

15 minutes

Do a nightly reset Many hands do make light work, says cleaning and organising expert Chantel Mila Ibbotson (@mama_mila_au). She suggests the household spends 15 minutes after dinner sharing tasks like packing the dishwasher, putting away toys and schoolwork and doing a quick vacuum of high-traffic areas. And a morning reset “I do a quick tidy of breakfast dishes and load the washing machine, using the ‘delay’ function so it’s done by the time we finish work,” says Chantel. Add making the beds to this list and and you’ll instantly feel like you’re adulting right.

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Disinfect touchpoints Use a disinfectant spray and wipe door handles, light switches and remotes. Wipe out the oven Sponging down the oven after every use will make that dreaded proper oven clean a much lighter job. And that’s a real triumph. Clean fridge shelves A regular wipe means the fridge deep clean will be so much easier – plus you can use the opportunity to assess your food supplies and plan the week’s meals to suit, avoiding food waste. Win win! Smarten up the kitchen sink Sprinkle a stainless steel sink with bicarbonate of soda, then add a little dish soap and hot water to a sponge, and scrub. Pour bicarbonate of soda down a stinky drain, slowly followed by vinegar (ratio of one to two). Leave it for a few minutes, then flush with boiling water. Target grotty bits There are certain parts of the home that routinely attract mess, like the back door, bathroom sink, kitchen bench and around pet bowls. Set up a mini cleaning station near these areas – for example, a mini refillable spray bottle of cleaner and a stash of washable microfibre cloths in the bathroom vanity, or a spray mop in the cupboard by the back door. This makes it easier to do a swift scrub on the fly to prevent mess building up. bunnings |

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Less than an hour

Tackle a single room “If you don’t want to spend a full day cleaning each week, try breaking the chores into 30 minutes on a room or space each day,” says Carmen Strong. For example, make Monday kitchen day, bedrooms on Tuesday, and so on. Bathroom break Knock off this job in a swift half hour, suggests Chantel Mila Ibbotson. Spray everything with bathroom cleaner (she uses a DIY mix of a cup each of water and cleaning vinegar with four drops of eucalyptus oil). “Leave it to work for 10 minutes then use a scrub brush, or the Ryobi power scrubber, to cut through tough mess and grime easily,” she says.

minutes, then remove and wipe clean. The steam loosens all the splatters, while the lemon leaves your whole kitchen fragrant.

everything back neatly. The same applies to the desk drawer, bathroom vanity, entrance console drawer or anywhere tiny items multiply.

Brave the ironing pile Make it fun by putting on the telly or listening to music or a podcast. Do this regularly enough and that one-hour job you used to avoid could become a 15- or 30-minute task you (almost) enjoy.

Reorganise the wardrobe “I see how many tasks I can get done while my linen washes and dries – one hour is the perfect amount of time to clear out and reorganise a wardrobe,” says Chantel. “Empty each drawer, one at a time, onto the bed and sort through what to keep and donate. Take before and after photos to keep yourself motivated to finish the task.”

Freshen the fridge Empty everything out, then remove shelves and clean with a soft cloth and soapy water.

Spot-clean walls Do a walk-through of the house and use a damp microfibre cloth to wipe off fingerprints (and footprints, if you have small children), fly spots and smudges.

Wash wheelie bins These can get very whiffy, particularly in summer. Put the bin on its side and sweep out debris. Pour a mix of detergent and warm water into the bin, scrub with a long handled brush, rinse with the hose then turn it upside down to dry. Let it sit, right side up, in the sun with the lid open for a few hours to air out.

De-gunk the microwave “Place water and lemon juice in a suitable bowl and microwave for five minutes – this helps to lift any dirt or grime that’s stuck on,” says Carmen. Let it sit for another five

De-junk the junk drawer An hour is more than enough time to wind up spare cables, pack up old batteries ready to recycle and bin takeaway menus. Wipe out the drawer and put

Full kitchen reset A deep clean of the kitchen can make a huge difference to how you feel about being at home, says professional cleaner and international author Beth McGee*. “Soak items like microwave trays in a sink of hot soapy water,” she says. “Use a microfibre cloth to clean in, on and under small appliances and cupboards. Wipe down cabinet and large appliance fronts and then benches. Rinse, dry and replace soaking items. Vacuum the floor, then mop for a final shine.”

Beth McGee

Make windows sparkle This big job has big rewards, letting in more light and transforming your home. Use a mix of 2:1 water and cleaning vinegar with a splash of dish soap, squeegee off excess and polish with a microfibre cloth. On grubby exterior windows, use hose-on 30 Seconds Window Wonder – it’s perfect for upstairs windows.

Dealing with laundry is less of a chore if the workspace is calm and free of chaos bunnings |

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Deep-clean bedding Strip beds and vacuum mattresses with the upholstery attachment. Blot away stains with upholstery cleaner or soapy water. Sprinkle with bicarbonate of soda, leave for a few hours, then vacuum. Take the opportunity to machinewash mattress toppers and pillow protectors (check care instructions).

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Photography Brigid Arnott, styling Katie Turner. *Get Your House Clean Now: The Home Cleaning Method Anyone Can Master (getyourhousecleannow.com). Wear a mask and gloves for serious cleaning tasks and store cleaning products out of reach of children and pets.

Take it outside “If you have a spare half day, why not dedicate it to outside the house!” says Chantel. Starting at the eaves, use a longhandled broom to remove cobwebs and brush dirt from walls. Give the front door and porch a hose down.

“Decluttering can be accomplished in an hour or less. Mindset is everything.”

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Half a day

Grease, grime and mysterious goo?

Ready for any kind of clean.

Tick i t off!

Next month: the ultimate stain removal guide! February issue in store January 25

15 MINUTES Nightly reset Morning reset Quick mop Laundry Toilet

Disinfect touchpoints Wipe oven Wipe fridge Clean kitchen sink Target grotty bits

LESS THAN AN HOUR Single room Bathroom Spot-clean walls

Keep outdoor areas light and bright by removing debris and built-up grime from all surfaces

Microwave Ironing Wheelie bins Wardrobe

HALF A DAY Kitchen reset Exteriors Windows Bedding deep clean

A WHOLE DAY Seasonal reset Decluttering Ceiling Wall wash

pillowcase with a gentle cleanser (or equal parts vinegar and water), slip it over the blades and gently pull as you wipe to keep dust contained. Next, move onto light shades and vents. Evict spiders and their webs from corners. Scrub off flyspots with a damp microfibre cloth, and run a damp microfibre flat or spray mop over ceilings. Spray greasy kitchen ceilings with a mild cleaning solution.

Serious decluttering A free day in the new year is the perfect time to tackle big tasks. These include clearing out and reorganising the garage, a full wardrobe or linen cupboard sort and purge (animal shelters or vets may take old towels and blankets), and sorting and culling your bookshelves.

Wall wash Make your interiors sparkle again – sugar soap does a brilliant job if it’s been some time since this was last done. Otherwise, a damp microfibre cloth or mild detergent works fine.

Look up Dust those ceiling fans by implementing the pillowcase trick – lightly spray inside an old

Pressure wash

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A whole day

Do a seasonal reset Keep your cooling and heating appliances in good condition. “Be sure to get appliances serviced regularly,” says Beth McGee. “But you can change or clean filters and wipe down units’ exterior surfaces.” Depending on which end of the season it is, unearth and clean any scum off pool toys and outdoor games or air out blankets and throws.

Junk drawer

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Power up Set up the high pressure hose and spray mossy paths and driveways, fences and decks (be careful about the force you use on timber and painted surfaces). This is a messy job, so be prepared!

Photography Brigid Arnott, styling Samantha Pointon.

Fridge

IF YOU’RE TALKING EXTERIOR PAINT PROFESSIONALS TRUST Self-priming. Helps prevent mould. Easy to clean. Made for Australian Weather.

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