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How to Keep School Uniforms Looking New - A Mum’s Guide

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As a parent, keeping your child's school uniform looking fresh and tidy throughout the year can feel like a never-ending battle. From grass stains to mysterious marks, uniforms can quickly lose their crispness without proper care. However, with the right techniques and a little bit of know-how, you can ensure that your child's uniform remains in top condition, saving you time and money in the long run. In this guide, we'll explore the best methods for cleaning school uniforms, maintaining shoes, and keeping everything looking as good as new.

boys lying on floor


How to Clean School Uniforms
Cleaning school uniforms is easier than you think. Here’s our guide

Check the Care Label
Before diving into the cleaning process, it's essential to review the care label attached to the uniform. This label provides valuable information on the recommended washing instructions, including water temperature, detergent type, and any specific precautions to take. By adhering to these guidelines, you can prevent accidental damage to the fabric and ensure optimal cleaning results.

Pre-Treat Stains
Stains are an inevitable part of a child's daily activities, but they don't have to spell disaster for their uniform. Prior to washing, take the time to pre-treat any visible stains with a suitable stain remover or a mixture of water and laundry detergent. Gently work the pre-treatment solution into the fabric using a soft brush or cloth, allowing it to penetrate and loosen the stain before laundering. This proactive approach can significantly improve the likelihood of complete stain removal during the washing process.

Machine Wash with Care
When it's time to wash the uniform, select a gentle detergent and set your washing machine to the appropriate settings indicated on the care label. Avoid using harsh detergents or high-temperature wash cycles, as these can damage delicate fabrics or cause colors to fade prematurely. Additionally, consider turning the uniform inside out before placing it in the washing machine to minimise friction and preserve any printed or embroidered designs.

Hang to Dry Naturally
After washing, resist the temptation to toss the uniform in the dryer, as excessive heat can lead to shrinkage or damage to the fabric fibers. Instead, opt for air drying by hanging the uniform on a clothesline or drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases by gently stretching the fabric, and avoid direct sunlight, which can cause colors to fade. This gentle drying method helps maintain the integrity of the fabric while allowing the uniform to retain its shape and appearance.

Iron with Precision
For a polished finish, iron the uniform using the appropriate heat setting for the fabric type. Be sure to iron any creases or wrinkles while the fabric is still slightly damp to achieve the best results. Take care around any embellishments or delicate areas, such as buttons or pleats, to avoid accidental damage. By ironing with precision, you can ensure that the uniform looks crisp and professional, ready for your child to wear with pride.

Don't Forget About the Shoes
Ensuring your child's school uniform remains pristine isn't complete without considering their shoes. Beyond washing and ironing, proper shoe maintenance is essential for a polished appearance. Start by clearing away any debris or dirt from the shoe's surface using a soft brush or cloth. This initial step prevents dirt from embedding further into the material, simplifying the cleaning process. Then, address any visible stains or scuff marks with an appropriate cleaner, being mindful of the shoe's material to avoid damage. For leather shoes, a specialised leather cleaner helps maintain suppleness and shine.
Additionally, pay attention to the condition of the shoe laces. Over time, laces can become dirty or frayed, detracting from the overall appearance of the footwear. If needed, replace worn or dirty laces with fresh ones that complement the shoe's style. You can opt for no tie shoe laces that match the colour and material of the shoes to maintain a cohesive look while also making it easier for your kid to get dressed. 

Finally, when not in use, store the shoes in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup and extend their lifespan. By integrating these straightforward maintenance steps into your routine, you'll keep your child's school shoes looking sharp and prepared for every school day.

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Michelle
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5 Amazing Gift Ideas for New Mums

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Welcoming a new addition to the family is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming for new Mums as they navigate the challenges of motherhood. One way to show your support and appreciation for the new Mum in your life is by choosing the perfect gift. In this article, we'll explore five amazing gift ideas that are sure to bring comfort, joy, and convenience to any new mum.

baby feet



Amazing Gift Ideas for New Mums

Comfortable Nightgown
After a long day of taking care of the baby, every new Mum deserves to relax in comfort. A soft and cozy nightgown is the perfect gift to help her unwind and get a restful night's sleep. Look for nightgowns made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Cool-Jams nightgowns are great because they feature stretchy designs that accommodate her changing body post-pregnancy. Bonus points if you can find one with easy access for breastfeeding, making those late-night feedings a little bit easier.

Back Massager
The physical demands of caring for a newborn can take a toll on a new Mum's body, especially her back. A portable back massager is a thoughtful gift that can provide much-needed relief from muscle tension and stress. Choose a massager with adjustable settings and ergonomic design, so she can target specific areas of discomfort. Whether she's nursing the baby or simply relaxing on the couch, a back massager will help her feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day.

Children's Books
Introducing the joy of reading to a newborn is a gift that will last a lifetime. Children's books are not only entertaining but also educational, stimulating a baby's cognitive development and language skills from an early age. Consider selecting classic titles or modern favourites that the new Mum can enjoy reading aloud to her little one. Opt for sturdy board books or cloth books that are durable and baby-friendly, with colorful illustrations to capture the baby's attention. Building a library of children's books is a wonderful way to create lasting memories and foster a love of reading in the family.

Personalised Baby Onesie
Celebrate the new arrival with a personalised baby onesie that's as unique as the baby itself. Customised onesies with the baby's name or a special message are a thoughtful and adorable gift that will be cherished by the new Mum. Choose soft, organic cotton onesies that are gentle on the baby's delicate skin and easy to care for. Whether it's a cute animal print, a funny saying, or a heartfelt message, a personalised onesie adds a special touch to those precious early months.

Bath Bombs
Self-care is essential for new Mums, but it can often be overlooked in the midst of caring for a newborn. Treat the new Mum in your life to a luxurious bath bomb that allows her to indulge in a relaxing spa-like experience right at home. Opt for bath bombs made with natural ingredients like essential oils and botanical extracts, which nourish the skin and promote relaxation. Choose soothing scents like lavender or chamomile to help her unwind and destress after a long day. With a bath bomb, she can enjoy a moment of tranquility and pampering whenever she needs it most.

Choosing the perfect gift for a new Mum is a wonderful way to show your love and support during this special time. Whether it's a comfortable nightgown for peaceful nights, a back massager for relief from muscle tension, children's books for early learning, a personalised baby onesie for a personal touch, or a bath bomb for moments of relaxation, there are plenty of amazing gift ideas to brighten her day. Whatever you choose, your thoughtful gesture will be greatly appreciated and remembered for years to come.

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- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle
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How To Beat The January Blues

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This post was last updated January '24

Blue Monday is the 3rd Monday in the month of January. If you haven't heard of blue Monday before or have no idea what it is well it's supposed to be the day when we can get very sad and down in the dumps. It's not surprising really because January is probably the worst month of the year as it's the month after all the Christmas festivities and there is not much to look forward to. If you are feeling a little blue today then read our tips on how to beat the January blues.

a path through the woods


Get Outside
On these darker days its only natural to want to stay inside and curl up on the sofa however it is best to try and head outside for some fresh air. if you can. Going for a walk and getting some light can make us feel a whole lot better. In between Christmas and New Year we went out to the park a few times and it really did help. Just that bit of fresh air cleared our minds and dusted off the cobwebs.

Go Shopping
Taking a trip to the shops in January can really help beat those 'down in the dumps' days. There are lots of January sale bargains still to be had out there and finding something you want or need at a reduced price can give you a lift that you need.

Disneyland Paris castle
Plan A Trip
After Christmas we all want something to look forward to so planning a trip is a great way to lift your spirits and have something planned in your diary. January is when I start browsing the Internet for cheap flights or breaks away, usually it involves a trip to Disney however we have already booked our Disneyland Paris trip this year. That doesn't mean though that I can't try and sneak another holiday in. 

Try Something New
January is the month for resolutions, aims and goals but they are usually made up of things we want to change about ourselves. Whether it is our weight, our job, our lack of exercise. However it would be nice for one of our aims or goals to be something positive. Think about something you've always wanted to do whether it's learn a new language or join a dance class and do it. It's good to try something new once in a while and get out of our comfort zones. One interesting idea would be to treat yourself with a fun and exciting experience - our friends from Experience Gifts have plenty to choose from! 

books

Me Time
We all need a little 'Me Time' however most of us tend to put others first and we forget about us. It's important to remember that we need time for ourselves away from busy work schedules and every day life. We need to make sure we take care of ourselves and January is the best time to start a new routine for ourselves whether it's a weekly pamper night, an early night or just curling up with that book that you've been meaning to read for a year. I am determined this year to read more and although last year I did pretty well since joining my book club

If you are suffering from the January blues this year just remember you are not alone. Most of us don't like January but its just one month out of twelve and thankfully it's almost over.

Michelle

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Four Fantastic Child-Friendly Restaurants in Central London

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Without a doubt, central London is great for a family day out. There are so many things to see and do, plus it’s easy to get the train to London from almost anywhere in the UK. But despite there being so many eateries available in the heart of the Big Smoke, it can be hard to know which are suitable for kids. But don’t panic, we’ve got you covered.  In this article, we’ll share four fantastic child-friendly restaurants in central London.

girl picking a chip from a bowl

Heddon Street Kitchen, Piccadilly Circus
If you asked for just one reason you should choose Heddon Street Kitchen, it’s because all kids eat for free. This is a great luxury at any restaurant, let alone one run by world-famous celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. The child-friendly menu includes kids’ classics like macaroni cheese, meatballs with pasta and burgers and chips, so you can be sure your little one will enjoy something on the menu. It’s also extremely easy to get to, located just off Regent’s Street in the heart of the West End.

Rosa’s Thai, Soho
If you’re in London then you’re never far away from a Rosa’s Thai in London, meaning it’s easy for you to get a delicious Thai meal at any time. While the menu has plenty of exotic flavours for adults, it’s also jam-packed with kid-friendly favourites like crispy spring rolls, chicken satay sticks and egg-fried rice. Your littluns are sure to have a great time, thanks to the friendly staff, light décor and upbeat music this chain is known for.

Darcie & May Green, Westminster
Fancy taking your kids somewhere a little different for brunch? Then consider Darcie & May Green, a colourful floating restaurant on a canal boat. It’s covered with bright pop art stencils that are sure to capture your children’s imagination, and the brunch food is guaranteed to be a hit too. Despite it being on a boat, there’s plenty of room to sit down. And even if it is smaller than most restaurants, the novelty of the experience for your kids is well worth it. 

Giraffe World Kitchen, Victoria
Like to sample a bit of everything? Then Giraffe World Kitchen could be the perfect restaurant for you. It serves dishes from around the world, from American-style burgers to Japanese Katsu curry. It has a great selection of options on the kid’s menu too, so it doesn’t how fussy your little ones are, you’re sure to find something suitable on the menu. 

Which of these child-friendly restaurants are you most excited to eat at next time you’re in central London? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section.

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- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

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Michelle
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How To Plan A Great Playdate

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It needn’t be said that parenthood is not without its challenges. As you grow as a family, there are trials and tribulations to match the near-endless happy moments you get to enjoy with one another. Yet, although they are always overcome eventually, some of these challenges can be difficult to navigate at first. 

When your children get old enough to make their own friends – and when they, or those friends, request to see one another outside of school – it becomes your job to facilitate this. These casual events are vital for your child’s social development; however, it can be tricky to get them right. So, how do you ensure your child will enjoy their playdate without compromising the harmony of your own home in the process?

three children running on grass


Host Outside

One of the simplest ways to maximise your at-home harmony is to situate your planned playdate outside. This allows you to avoid any unexpected (or well-anticipated) emergencies caused by spilt drinks, smeared paints or other kid-related collateral. Being outside also presents you with different opportunities for play and fun – even in the winter, provided you have warm and sheltered spaces to harbour the kids in the event of rain.

Child-Friendly Décor

First, let’s tackle making your garden a child-friendly environment – both in terms of safety and aesthetics. Old rugs are a good idea for patio surfaces, to minimise grazed knees and the transfer of dirt in-house. Soft furnishings are a must, whether outdoor furniture or simply an assortment of cushions. For lighting, you could add some solar lanterns to your outdoor space. Not only does this extend the amount of time your guests can spend outside playing, but it also imbues your garden with a twilight wonder that’s bound to make their playdate that little bit more magical.

two children jumping on a bed


Keep It Small

A bit of advice that could make all the difference to your first few attempts at organising child-friendly shindigs is to just keep it small. The fewer children you have to worry about, the less stress you will feel from keeping up with everything. The messy aftermath will also be minimised so it’s a win-win! Keeping your children’s guests to two or three also makes it cheaper and easier for you to feed and entertain them.

Interesting Activities

Speaking of entertainment, you should also put some time into devising activities for the children to engage in during the playdate. More often than not, children’s imaginations are enough to carry them through most playdates. However, yours might be the anxious type, or you might have a few shy guests in your midst. As such, setting up some party games for them, with you as the officiants, can make for some structured fun that also keeps everyone in check.

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- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on FacebookTwitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

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- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle
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Choosing The Perfect Pushchair. A Guide To The Venicci Brand!

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Finding the perfect pushchair can be quite a challenge. The extensive selection of models on the market, the different specifications, but also the different needs of parents and their children make the choice even more difficult. But instead of scaring you and painting a dark vision, we have something better – a guide to the Venicci collection that will make things easier when finding the perfect pushchair! What to look for when purchasing a baby pushchair, what are the differences between different models, and where to look for the best products? These and other questions will be answered in this article. Let's get started!

woman pushing a pushchair

Venicci – A Brand Known For Quality

Venicci is a brand focused on quality, elegance, and beautiful design, which is perfectly reflected in the online pushchair shop. However, a quick glance is enough to see a varied assortment of pushchairs to choose from. So, which one should you pick?

Pram or pushchair? Or perhaps a 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 model? Which one is comfortable for the child and convenient for the parents? Lots of questions, right? The first thing to consider is your lifestyle and needs.

Lightweight, easy-to-fold pushchairs may be the best choice if you travel a lot or have limited space. Prams with larger, well-suspended wheels will be better for parents who walk a lot over various terrains. 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 models are great for those looking for versatility and wanting the pushchair to "grow" with their child from birth to early years.

At Venicci, you will find pushchairs to match different requirements. For example, the Upline Slate Grey Pram is available as a 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 model, and the large, solid gel wheels allow you to walk on different surfaces. The Vero Blush Stroller, for instance, is a typical pram for children up to 22 kg.

What else should you consider when buying a pushchair? Find out more!

What To Look For When Choosing a Perfect Pushchair?

It is worth considering some additional features to make the pushchair even better adapted to your and your child's needs. This will help you find the ideal pram for safe and comfortable daily journeys.

Make sure it has a solid structure, strong brakes and secure harnesses (e.g. Empire Ultra Black Pushchair with 4-wheel suspension).

The wheels should be appropriate for the type of terrain you will be travelling on most of the time – for example, large wheels with tyres pumped up for rough terrain.

Make sure that the pushchair folds up easily and fits into the trunk of your car if you plan to drive with your child frequently (np. Vero Night Stroller with compact folding size).

Check the adjustability to the age of the children – from the first days to several years.

Of course, the style of the pushchair can also be important, although this is a matter of personal preference. Fortunately, the Venicci pushchair shop has a great range of colours and designs from which you can choose.

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Michelle
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5 Tips to Decorate Your Child’s Room

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Decorating a children’s bedroom can be a lot of fun, but creating a space that both you and your child will love for years to come isn’t always easy. There’s a lot to consider, including the size of the space on offer, the age of your child(ren) and your budget. Here are five tips to help.

child's bedroom


Storage

Having a storage unit that allows children to tidy up after themselves should be a top priority. It means messes can easily be cleared away and gives your child ownership over their space, encouraging them to take responsibility for keeping their bedroom clean and tidy. You can opt for a bay window storage unit that is easily accessible for little hands and also provides a comfy seat for reading.

Keep it Simple

When it comes to kids’ rooms, there can be a temptation for parents to go overboard including everything they wish they’d had as a youngster but when it comes to creating the perfect children’s bedroom, less is usually more. By keeping the décor simple and furnishings to just the essentials, you’ll create more space for free play, which is a must for children of all ages.

child's bedroom


Play With Colours

Children love colour and redecorating your child’s room is a great way to introduce fun colour to your home, but it’s crucial to choose the right one. Involve your child in the process of choosing the colours and shades for their bedroom, but avoid going all-in on a single colour. Kids can change their minds at warp speed, and you don’t want to end up with a room that’s entirely red if next month, their favourite colour will be blue!

Instead, opt for two or three complementary colours or shades, and introduce them as pops of colour that can easily be updated as their tastes change, for example, by having one feature wall and then choosing soft furnishings such as curtains, bedding and rugs to match.

Frame Artwork

Art prints are a great way to brighten a neutral bedroom, but they can be pricey. Why not use your kid's artwork to brighten up their room instead? Cheap, colourful frames and a few favourite paintings or collages can bring a fun, unique feel to your child’s room.

You can also use picture pockets to hang photographs of all your child’s favourite memories, and these can easily be swapped and changed to include new pictures as you make new memories together.

Make it Functional

As your children grow, their room will need to adapt and change as they do. This means you’ll need to think ahead to avoid constantly needing to update and refresh the furniture and décor.

Opt for multi-function furniture, for example, high-sleepers with a built-in desk that they can use for homework as they get older or repurpose items they no longer need. For example, an old cot can become a child’s desk or a changing unit can be converted into shelving.

Consider whether your child’s room will have enough storage for books, toys and clothes, bearing in mind that their clothes will grow as they do!

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- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on FacebookTwitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle
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