E45 Nourish & Restore Body Lotion Review

We all have a skin care routine right?  We are all set in our own way and know what we like to put on our skin, but have we ever thought to stop for just a second and look at lotions that have been on the shelves for many years before all these new fancy smancy brands?  Don't worry I'm guilty of it too.  I'm talking about E45, this brand has been around since 1952, and available to us the public since the 1980's.  Now that's my whole life and I have only just discovered it properly all thanks to the wonders of BzzAgent.

I once again have been chosen to trial a product for them and this time it's the E45 Nourish and Restore Lotion.   I was actually glad to have a chance to sample this, I have seen the original on the shelves but I've always been swayed by the oooh's and ahhh's of the fancy branded products that, lets be honest, half the time they do nothing for your skin.   The only time I've ever heard of E45 being used was when my Grandad had a little sore face and he had a tube of this E-something or other cream, see that just shows how much I paid attention way back when I was a teenager. 

The E45 Daily Moisturisers have 4 varieties to choose from, 2 that have fragrance, Touchably Smooth and Nourish & Restore, and 2 that are fragrance free, the Moisturising Lotion and Intense Recovery.  A good idea to be honest, as it tailors for everyones different body issues, such as dry skin, even eczema.  I was lucky to receive one from each group, the Moisturising Lotion and Nourish & Restore.

I was pleasantly surprised when I received my parcel and it had 2 full sized bottles of the original E45 and this fancy and very feminine and attractive Nourish and Restore Body Lotion.   OK I'm going to be really lame here I fell for the bottle of Nourish and Restore straight away.  The pearlescent bottle caught my eye with its lovely shiny red text and it's red cap.  This lotion looked expensive, and if I was in the supermarket it is definitely a bottle that I WOULD buy for myself.  So I thought I would read the back you know just to get the jist of what's going on with the product, and I discovered that the lotion has natural oils and Vitamin B3.  It claims that it will help to replenish hydration lost and restore suppleness to your skin (it does state that it's for mature skin but that doesn't bother me at all), which will be noticeably glowing and healthier in just 3 weeks.  OK, I thought that was a little far fetched, but I was willing to give it a go, and I'll tell you why.   Not only does it say it is hypoallergenic and used for sensitive skin, it's the fact my skin is dry, cracked and very very sore.  I have such a problem with the skin on my face it's dry, tight and burns.  The skin is broken and no matter what lotions and potions I use nothing soothes it or even helps the anger that is trying to escape, so yes I really was willing to give anything a shot.  I was getting fed  up with all those horrible and stinky creams that the doc provides, not that i'm ungrateful as I know they are trying to help but I just wanted to feel normal, and feminine again.  Not like a gremlin or guinea pig, and to be honest to get a little confidence back in myself, I hated the way my face looked and was very self conscious, so if this little lotion from E45 could do it then I was about to find out.

I know I know you think I'm nuts, someone with sensitive skin using a fragranced lotion, but please just take time to listen to what I have to say about my first application, and then you can make your own minds up.

I squirted the cream onto my hands, the bottle was easy to use and the cream was white and the consistency was just right.  I could smell the fragrance instantly and I have to say I really approved, it is mild and floral, sort of like your soap and this instantly made me feel girly.  The first place I wanted to try it was my face, but I relented I tried it on my poor hands first.  Instantly I could feel the difference, the skin on my hands felt smoother and less rough.  The cream absorbed quickly and left no sticky or greasy residue behind which is an added bonus especially for body lotion as this means you can apply and quickly dress, bonus if you are in a hurry.  So I then thought I'd try it on my elbows and knees, which have patches of Psoriasis, and the heels of my feet, and once again what a difference just after the one application, my skin was smooth, and I just couldn't stop rubbing my hands together, I loved the feel of them, I loved the feel of the lotion.   The patches of Psoriasis responded well to the lotion also and this is when I decided to give it a try on my face, I thought if it hurt I'd instantly wash it off.  So I took the plunge and all I can say is that I felt like the skin on my face gave out an audible sigh of relief.  I applied in small circular motions and each time it felt like my skin was being lovingly kissed and caressed better.   The tightness relaxed slightly, and the burning sensation which I thought would increase actually subsided a little bit too.  I will tell you something I have never felt so much relief in my life. 

So that was my first application and I have been using it everyday since as part of my skin care routine.  I've found the best time to use the E45 lotion is right after you have showered or bathed, it helps lock the moisture in.  The bottle states that it lasts 24 hours and I can't honestly vouch for this because I shower twice a day so it's not on long enough, but I can tell you that one application in the morning lasts me all day and the fragrance also lasts throughout the day on my skin personally, which I am thrilled with as I feel more womanly with a scent on my body.  I have decanted some into a smaller bottle so I can take it with me and top up if I feel I need to and this is just habit because my skin has always been so dry, but the past week or so I've just applied once in the morning and it has lasted all day.   I would definitely recommend just before bed putting the lotion on your hands and feet and popping on your gloves and socks, I'm not joking your hands and feet will thank you in the morning. 

I knew that my new E45 lotion was doing a good job, but it was when I went to visit my family and the ladies that my gran meets with couldn't stop complimenting me on my healthy and glowing skin.  In fact they were convinced I was pregnant because I honestly couldn't have that glow without being pregnant.  It took me a while to convince them that I was without child, and that it was in fact good ol' E45.  They all took a little squirt in their hands and I was ashamed to admit they made me really jealous because they were reminiscing about the times they had used it. I wish that I had discovered this little wonder years ago too, my skin would have loved me and E45 a whole lot. 

Now I don't know about you but there is nothing better than someone else noticing something different on you and positively complimenting you, I have to admit my confidence has been boosted and I'm not trying to hid my face or avoid people as much as I have in the past.   I feel like a weight has been taken off my shoulders, like I have been given another chance, and I can be feminine now and not feel like a complete and utter gremlin, and I'm not ashamed to have this lotion displayed on my bathroom shelf either it takes pride of place there!  Since that first application my facial skin is less angry, my skin is healthy and glowing, and I feel such a difference overall.  My body feels smooth to the touch and I just cannot thank E45 enough for such a fantastic product. 

Want to try it yourself?  Of course you do... well it's available in all major supermarkets, Boots and other major retailers.  There are different sizes and variants and the price is down to the retailers discretion but usually it's between £3.84 and £7.20, but as we all know there is always deals and offers to be had and the best place I've found to look is the mysupermarket website which compares the price in 7 different shops so you can get the best deal.  I know most people think that is a lot of money but in all honesty you don't need loads for an application,  I take a small amount and it goes a long way.  Plus it works, and I'm happy to pay for something as  long as it works, I mean there are these wonder creams out there that are a few hundred pounds and don't make the blind bit of difference, so I'm quite happy to pay the price for this bottle of cream.   I've been using it everyday for the past few weeks and I've still got a lot left in my bottle.  

So how about trying it before you buy it?  Yes I know we all love a free sample, so why not skip on over to the E45 page and request your own free sample (I'm not sure if this is while stocks last or not) .  

Thank you Bzzagent for allowing me to trial this product for you :)

Dove Compressed Deodorant Review

I am a BzzAgent and I have been asked to test the new Dove Compressed Deodorant that hit the shelves on the 4th of Feb 2013. 

We all know we have access to any deodorant we desire but most of the bigger deodorant cans have a lot of gas in them that, let's face it, is not needed.  Over the past 10 years Dove have been looking for new ways to have less packaging with less gas but with the same amount of protecting deodorant inside, and they have finally cracked it.  How you ask?  Well  the new Dove Compressed can has a unique nozzle which helps to spray out less gas but still delivers the same amount of deliciously moisturising deodorant. 

Sceptical are you not?  Well there is absolutely no need to be.  I've tested this item and I'm quite happy to provide you my findings.  These of course are my own personal opinions and everyone is always best to try things themselves, but if you would rather an honest review first then you've come to the right place.

1 - Packaging - It's cute, come on it's super cute.  I love it.  it's sleek and has the shape that fits right into your hand, when you grip it the tin goes right in the grove between your thumb and your index finger for comfort.  The nozzle has a little rubber tip which makes sure your fingers fit comfortably and don't slip.  The size of the tin is the most obvious it's definitely the biggest change, and is half the size (75ml) of it's big sister tin (150ml), and I guess this is what makes it so cute, it's really small and dinky and I love it.  Before big sister tin had a lot more vacant space that was being used up by gas to help deliver the deodorant, but with the invention of the new nozzle on the can this has now allowed for the smaller tin with the same amount of deodorant as before.  This is definitely a bonus for all ladies, it fits snugly in your handbag so you can carry it around for those dreaded moments when you know you need a quick freshen up, but it can also be transported for those weekends away and you can put it in your hand luggage. The tin is about the same size as your average smart phone these days and if they can fit in your handbag snugly then so can your deodorant.

I also like how each tin is personalised I have, for instance, the invisible dry that I was testing and it has a sleek silver cap and a violet and white feel about the design  however if you chose some of the other fragrances like for example the Pomegranate and Lemon Verbena Scent the lid is a cute and very girly pink colour and is clearly pink and white in the design, where as the Cucumber and Green Tea scent is very much a green and white colour pallet.

Now don't tell me you are not swayed by the fancy packaging because I know 9 times out of 10 we all are.  No matter how much you deny it you want that cupcake with the pink frosting and sprinkles on top instead of that plain old fairy cake with nothing.  I know because I too prefer that cupcake sprinkles and all.  That is why I feel the packaging is such an important aspect of a product because it pulls people in, and Dove has acknowledged this and taken it on board.  Ladies we love things to be attractive and we most certainly like to be seen with things that are attractive and pleasing to the eye. 

I guess the major bonus of all this less packaging is the effect it has on our environment.  The cans are aluminium and can be recycled,  and with less gas being produced and a smaller package it is most definitely a bonus and much needed change for our environment and even if you don't recycle or don't do anything else economically, if you make one small change it makes all the difference so why not do it with your deodorant.  You won't be losing anything as there is the same amount of stuff, it's just more compressed to make life more a lot easier.

2 - Fragrance - Like I mentioned before I am testing the Invisible dry anti-perspirant but I can tell you that I have never had so many comments about the fresh and springtime fragrance that lingers around me.  I love to get comments on my scent, what person doesn't?  Well as long as it's good I guess lol.  The fragrance of Invisible dry is delicate and subtle but definitive.  It's feminine but chic at the same time and not over powering at all.  It's just right.  Who wants to smell like they have been bathed in a bath of scent? No one, you just want it to be subtle and this deodorant definitely allows for that. 

3 - The Feel and Effect and Lasting Properties - I was sceptical myself, I really was, when they say that your underarms will feel smooth and moisturised, but after using it everyday for the past month and a half I can honestly say with my hand on my heart that my skin under my arms feels much smoother to the touch.  Before they would be rather rough, and could be really sore, but now they feel really nourished and dare I say it "protected".  So when I was reading the tin just before doing this review I happened to come across the statement that says they use 1/4 moisturising cream and vitamin E in their product, which I think is a fantastic idea.  We are moisturising our faces and our hands etc etc, so it makes sense to actually have something that will assist in moisturising our underarms.  When I spray the deodorant it feels like a lovely warm cuddly blankie, it does it feels soft against my skin like it's lovingly caressing it. 

Dove have indicated that their fragrance lasts up to 48 hrs, now I don't know about anyone else but I don't go 48 hrs without bathing/showering so I honestly couldn't tell you regarding this statement, but, after I shower in the morning I apply the deodorant and go to work and go about my daily routine and by night time when I come home and I'm winding down I still smell a waft of freshness and it makes me smile, and I feel confident knowing that no matter what I do and no matter how busy I am I still smell as fresh as a daisy, and I won't repel anyone that is standing within a 5 mile radius of me. 

4 - Anti-White Marks - Yes, oh yes yes yes!  Who out there has put on their favourite LBD or their favourite top for that special occasion, you get their and you lift your arm for some reason or another and EEK, there it is, the dreaded white marks.  I don't need to worry about that now, I am quite happily sitting here with my black t-shirt on and spraying the dove over it again and again just to make sure, and I can convincingly tell you that there is no white marks on my top. So I can happily lift my arms show of the moisturised skin instead of the horrible white marks.  BONUS!   I guess it's all down to their micro fine anti-perspirant formulation, but in all honesty whatever it is, it's my best friend :)

5 -  Price And Where To Buy It - The price is recommended at £2.49 but that is subject to discretion from retailers.  For me this maybe a downfall because you can get deodrants a lot cheaper than this, I'm not sure if I could afford to pay for this if I was having to buy it every week, but knowing how long it does last i'm confident that I could actually afford to buy this when needed. The upside is as you know many major retailers have introductory and special offers on all the time, so there is plenty opportunity to get this little beauty for a really good deal, check out MySupermarket for some good deals.   I have to say the price fits in line with many other major brands that are around this price and for what it does I think it's worth every penny.  Who wants to pay £2.49 for a huge tin of deodorant that is full of gas, has way too much packaging and you can't carry around with you, you can't even fit it in the bathroom cabinet at home, where as the compressed tin you can! My bets are on the compressed tin, it's popular, it's a well known brand and you'll love using it so you'll want to buy it and know you are doing your bit for the environment. 

You can purchase Dove compressed deodorant from local supermarkets and online retailers like for example, Tesco, Sainsbury, Asda, Boots and so forth. 

6 - How Long Did It Last?  - My deodrant is still going strong.  I've used it everyday for the past month and a bit and plenty of others have used it to have a quick spray and it's still going strong.  My last deodrant which was a bigger size I felt I wasn't really getting much out of it so I was having to reapply throughout the day, but with the new compressed version which means I am getting more anti- perspirant than I am gas I am actually using the deodorant much less.  I feel I don't even need to reapply throughout the day as the fragrance and feel lasts much longer than I need it to, therefore I am using less of the product therefore making it last longer.  It definately pips it's big sister tin to the post as it's not only better for the environment but it's better on me also financially as I don't need to buy deodrant so often and I can use my money to either save or buy other little luxuries.   I know the length of time the deodorant lasts is dependent on individual use and how many times you use it, but for me this works. 

6 - My Personal Overall Opinion - I love it. It's something that I will definately be buying in the future, knowing how long it last it does work out more economical for me than any other deodrant i've used. Of course with the price it is at I would still look around for a good deal so that I could stock up.   The fragrance is feminine and attractive to me as is the overall size.  It's easy just to throw in my handbag and off I go.  I love, also, how I am doing my bit for the environment no matter how small I am helping to reduce co2 by swapping from my usual 150ml tin to the compressed 75ml tin with less gas inside. 


I would definately recommend this product overall, the only downside I can see is the price, but that is dependent, as I mentioned, on personal use of the product.  For me it works because I use it just once a day with no need to reapply but others may feel they need to use it more, so may work out a lot more expensive in the long run, but that is the beauty of retailer offers.  The main upside for me is that it does exactly what it says on the tin, it's long lasting and protecting.  I feel confident and feminine wearing Dove and will be maintaining use of this wee beauty from now on. 

For more information go to the Dove website or Dove on Facebook  for all the latest news.

Yorkshire Tea - Yorkshire Gold Review

Today I collected my mail as usual and on the door mat was my sample of Yorkshire Gold Tea to sample.  As I've said before when I get something to try that's it i'm hot footing it to do just that.  Into the kitchen kettle on and waited the recommended 4-5 minutes or according to your personal taste.  

Yorkshire Gold is a combination of malty flavours from the Aassam teas with season teas from Rwanda and the highlands of East Africa.   Yorkshire Tea proudly acknowledge that they use only teas of high quality, and of course those that make one of the best cuppas you've tasted. 

My sample was 2 foil wrapped teabags - woohoo I can have 2 brews instead of 1 :D - and came in a sweet little card giving all the information needed about the tea and some of their other selections.  It also included a 30p off any Yorkshire Tea tea products, which in all honesty I will be using.  Tea is something that I go through a heck of a lot of, even more than coffee, and I like to expand my taste, and heighten my tastebuds with all different tea experiences.  I love how tea can tantalize your senses and makke you feel appreciated... if you get the right brew, you can feel like you have a hug in a mug. 

So after the brewing I poured some into my favourite china cup and proceeded to the tasting test. 
First off I notice the smell, it's strong but not as in an overbrewed sort of strong, it's just distinctive, and fresh. The colour was pure liquid gold, and the first sip most definately proved that fact. I could feel the smoothness of the liquid running down my throat.  The taste was refreshing, and quenched my thirst.  I needed something soothing, but fresh and Yorkshire Gold definately hit the spot.  For me personally doing this little taste test I found that there was no horrible aftertaste that other brands can leave in your mouth, and I certainly did not fee thirsty after I had my tea.  I felt even better knowing that the makers of Yorkshire Tea, Taylors of Harrogate, are certified by the Rainforest Alliance with 30% of their blend coming from Rainforest Alliance Certified Farms. I could enjoy my tea with the knowledge that those that grow the tea are being treater fairly, and so they should, especially if tea like this is being produced.

Next time you are in the tea aisle pick up a box of Yorkshire Tea, try it for yourself, you will be astounded at what this simple drink does to your senses.  If you want to try before you buy then head on over to their website and request a wee sample from them. You could also check out their Facebook page where you will find a lot of information, request your tea sample, connect with other tea lovers, and find competitions galore. You can also follow Yorkshire Tea on Twitter.

Want to get the right price.. check out mysupermarket to get the best deal.  At the moment they are selling for around £2.98 for 80 teabags, and £5.29 for 160 teabags. Of course as you know there are always offers in store so you never know you may pick up a bargain, but in all honesty one teabag can happily make 2 beautiful cups of tea, therefore being a bit more economical.

Sit back relax and enjoy the liquid gold :D

Ashamed to admit, I neglected my poor dishwasher

Since taking part in the poject of testing Fairy Platinum dishwashing tablets, it has made me think about how popular Fairy actually is, and how we trust the brand that has been around since 1898. For as long as I can remember Fairy has always been a huge part of the cleaning process in my mum's home, and then when I thought about it my grandmothers were just as keen on the same brand.  When I moved out of my mum's house and started to stand on my own two feet, I was on a very tight budget and therefore Fairy products had to be replaced with cheaper, and sometimes own brand items.  These items did the job, but nothing was better than going home to mum's on the weekend for Sunday lunch and the dishwashing chore was always much more pleasant than at home.  First, my hands were always dried out with the cheaper brands, but when I used the Fairy my hands were always smooth and soft.  I also liked how I didn't have to use so much of the liquid and could do a whole pile of dishes without having to keep adding liquid.  I will admit that it went completely over my head that Fairy actually had dishwashing tablets.  I guess I was a little naive and just kept with the product that I had been using.  That was until I received the tablets with this project.  The effect they have on my dishes and my dishwasher is absolutely amazing.  It's just like when the liquid loving caressed my hands and made them soft and smooth, the tablets are taking care of my dishwasher and loving caressing it.

Now I hate doing dishes by hand, the whole reason I got a dishwasher, as much as I love my hands being smooth and soft, I just can't bear the whole dishwashing routine it drives me nuts.  But after reading the SuperSavvyMe Fairy project handbook it made me realise how much I do take my dishwasher for granted.  Yes, I helped it along by rinsing my dishes first.  But what about all those stuck on stains, all the grease that I didn't get off the plates, pans and roasting dishes.  My thoughts, "don't worry Em, the dishwasher will get it off for you".  I never realised that the dishwasher needs some care too, how can I expect it to do all this cleaning, if the poor machine is not getting any attention at all?  Going back to the liquid use, would I use dirty water to wash all the dishes in that lovely Fairy liquid? Nope, so why would I neglect my poor machine?  I was giving it tablets to clean the dishes, but nothing to clean itself, and infact when it comes to cleaning the dishes the tablets I used were missing the spot and I had to rewash the dishes by hand anyways, so that was a total downer.
  

"Fairy has developed Platinum dishwasher tablets, which work to provide tough grease cleaning for both your dishes and machine with just one tablet* - the proof is in a cleaner filter" (SuperSavvyMe Project Handbook, 2012)   *Against Limescale, use Fairy dishwasher cleaner.

 How could anyone refuse to treat their dishwasher to these beauties.  We really do take things for granted and I guess our dishwasher may well be one of them.  I have learned from this project that I do need to take better care of my machine if I want it to perform better.  It's just a thought, but maybe it's also changed my mind on the products I do buy from now on.  What's that old saying, you only get what you pay for, in this instance it is totally true.  Fairy Platinum has given results that my previous dishwashing tablets couldn't even give after being used several times. 

Oral B Pro Expert Review - Refreshingly Minty

OK I'll admit it, I'm one of those people that when I get any sort of sample through the door I have to try it.  I just have to, and it can't be later, or tomorrow it has to be now, right there and then.  So when my the Oral-B  Pro Expert sample came through the door courtesy of Super Savvy Me it was no different, and off I hopped to the bathroom to give it a try.

Photo Courtesy of Super Savvy Me

When I first opened the lid of the toothpaste I just couldn't help but get thrown right into the dentists chair.  The aroma that came as soon as the lid was ajar was unbelievable, it was identical to that of my dentist's, luckily for me, I'm not that bothered about dentists, in fact I would rather go to the dentist than the doctors lol.  So after the initial throwback, I admired the lovely blue paste, it was actually something different, something I'd never seen before.  Usually toothpastes are white or striped, but I have to admit I liked this colour.  So then the real test came the brushing.  I happily applied my usual pea drop onto my brush and as soon as the brush met my teeth I knew this was different.  There were grains in the paste.. was this right? OK panic over it was right, this grains have an active ingredient and will dissolve happily in your saliva, it is also rather kind to the enamel on your teeth.  So on with the brushing.  The taste was actually quite pleasant, not too strong and not too weak.  It foamed up quite nicely, so you really did feel you were getting your full 3 minutes worth. 

The product promises to protect areas that your dentist checks most, for example your gums, plaque, sensitivity, tartar, cavities, enamel, whitening, and your breath. I have to say I was suitable impressed with this toothpaste.  It made you feel like your  mouth was clean, that it had been thoroughly taken care of and caressed with minty freshness.  I've been using it everyday since and my gums have shown a huge improvement, they are not so sore and raw, and my teeth look whiter than before.  My breath is fresh for longer and there is no aftertaste either.  I would definitely recommend this toothpaste to others, however, I've discovered looking at some other reviews since using it that the price of a full size product is quite pricey, but if you can afford it, it is well worth it. I'm sure there will always be some sort of offer on toothpastes.

Fairy Platinum Dishwasher Tablets Review - The testing begins..

Dirty dishes produced, Fairy Platinum Tablet inserted into dishwasher - and the magic begins.


I have to say I like to try new things.  I like to be the first and then tell everyone I know, and those I don't, all about it.  And these Fairy Platinum Tablet are no different.


Fairy Platinum Dishwasher Tablets come in three different options; firstly you can have different sized packs ranging from 20 tablets, 30 tablets, and a family pack of 60 tablets.   The scents which are associated with the packs are original and Lemon.   The packs are a plastic re-sealable bag which is rather handy and can be re-used time and time again. Also makes for easy storage with no bulky boxes.  A tablet measures approximately 4.5cm x 4cm and is in 2 parts, the powder and the liquid detergent which has a powerful anti-grease action,  these are both encased in a film, which means no more unwrapping and less rubbish, that’s always a bonus.   The tablets dissolve rather quickly in your dishwasher and Fairy has indicated that the tablets have cleaning ability even at low temperatures with tough stain removal and glass and silver protection.  A rinse aid action is also within the tablets and provides a super shine for glass and metal.



Fairy are promoting Fairy Platinum Dishwasher Tablets as an all in one tablet meaning that not only does it clean your dishes to a high standard, but that they degrease parts of the dishwasher that you cannot see, for example the machines filters.





One part of my filtering system, yuck!

Now this will definitely entice anyone who has decided to take a proper look at their dishwasher below the surface.  The filter is the one place that you can see the grime build up, (see photo opposite, that is proof of my own yucky filter) and Fairy is certain of their product that they actually have a filter challenge on the go.  I’ve taken part in the challenge, and all that you have to do is check your filter before using the product, and then review it at the end of the process.   When I used the product for the first time, I saw a small difference, however, after using it over a period of time, from the first time I used it I have seen a fairly noticeable difference so far, once I have finished the project I look forward to seeing how far the product has done its job since starting the testing.


When I opened the pack up the first thing that I noticed was the aroma that jut hits your nose, the smell is absolutely beautiful. I would quite happily sit there with the bag under my nose smelling it, he he.



Now I don't know about you, but I've always been in the habit of rinsing my dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, I was always so fed up of going through the wash and still having dirty dishes from the plates or pans. Believe me there is nothing worse than having dried in Weetabix swirling round the dishwasher and then resting on your glasses and cups, try getting that off. So that's the reason I end up doing the dishes in my house, Joe absolutely detests it. HOWEVER, after reading the Fairy bag, and telling him that "honestly you don't have to rinse the dishes, you just get most of the soil off the dishes and throw them in and set it going with this wee tab!" he has now discovered his new best friend, and is quite happy to do the dishes for me! BONUS!!



When we first used the tablets we sat there for the whole cycle. We were not so sure how it would go, we never rinsed the dishes and all Joe could say “you'll be washing them after misses, if this doesn't work". Good job that when I opened the door and the steam came out with the most delicious aroma I’ve ever smelled, my glasses were gleaming, and the soiled plates, which before they entered the dishwasher were covered in bolognaise sauce and other such delights, were squeaky clean. I was absolutely amazed. I couldn't believe it, that this little tablet managed to clean these dishes. Joe was that happy he actually put the dishes away himself :) We delved a little deeper and looked in the dishwasher, the whole machine was sparkling and smelled fresh. I didn’t want to pull the filter out straight away, as I wanted to give it a few shots, but Joe wanted to see and we did notice a difference, nothing major, but there was a small difference.



My only little negative thing about the tablets is that it says that it provides tea stain removal.  My favourite cup which has the most horrendous brown stains from years of lovely tea was put in the machine, it came out cleaner than it had gone in, but the stains were still there. This is of course just after the one wash.  It’s just my cup was rather heavily stained, and the packet said tea stain removal and don’t get me wrong it came out with maybe 80% of the stains gone, which to me is a huge improvement and I’m not complaining one bit, as the next couple of washes the stains have completely gone, but  I did have a high hope that it would clean in the first wash, so maybe that’s my own high standards instead of the poor ability of the tablet, as it did take at least 80% of the stains away.



Needless to say we have used them every wash since.  My mum has also jumped on the Fairy bandwagon.  She can be very tricky to change her mind when she has found a product she likes, but she just can’t believe the cleaning ability of the tablets.



Why not give it a go yourself. What can the harm be in trying? You never know you may just be surprised. I've never thought that a dishwashing tablet could do the job for me, and that I’d be endlessly rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.



If you are still not sure, why not check out some more reviews over on Super Savvy Me and dooyoo



Want the best deal? Skip on over to MySupermarket to compare the prices to get the right deal for you :)

My Poor Filter

The start of the filter challenge.

Awaiting the parcel! :)

A few weeks ago I stumbled across a site called Super Savvy Me that looked really interesting.  I'm not actually sure how I found it but i'm glad that I did.  I signed up straight away and noticed that there was a little section where you could become a product tester.  I had a little peek around and noticed that they were looking for 10,000 willing individuals to product test Fairy's Platinum Dishwashing tablets.  I honestly thought that I had no chance of becoming a tester, but thought there was no harm in trying and therefore took part in there wee survey to check that I was eligible.  I was quite excited and hoped that I would become a tester.  I like to try new things out and give my honest opinion.

Admittedly, I had forgotten about the product testing when I got an e-mail to let me know that I had been selected to test Fairy Platinum Dishwashing tablets.  Excited was not the word to explain how I felt.  Ok Ok, I know most of you will think - what is she talking about, but honestly, there is nothing better than getting something to test and to let them know your feedback.  At the end of the day it's testers feedback that determine the effectiveness of the product when you get it into your home. If there is anything wrong then you can let the company know and they then have the chance to ammend this, or on the other hand if there is something that has been done well, they can take advantage of this.

Hapy with my little Fairy Pack

Anyways, while I waited for my starter pack to come through the post to get started, I read the Fairy Project Blog  to get some more information on what was happening, and to also meet a lot of the other testers that are also taking part, and which is safe to say, rather excited too.  Then it arrived, and I had so much fun opening and checking out the contents of my wee parcel.  A full pack of Fairy Platinum Tablets, with a recipe book filled with delicious meals to try out at your very own dinner party which also includes a voucher with money off your next packet of tablets.  A manual and surveys in which they were really good quality was also included.   I took some photos of myself and roped in my husband Joe, to also help with the whole process.  If you can't share your excitement then what's the point huh? :)