Homes & Gardens decorating expert Celia Rufey shares her top decorating tips

Small chips on the rims and feet of everyday glassware can be filed smooth with finest-grade sandpaper.

Polished wood furniture can be buffed as often as you like but apply a good beeswax polish just two or three times a year - and never use silicone-based spray.

White spirit is more effective in removing the sticky residue that is left on containers after labels have been removed than some products made specially for the job.

Cut flowers last longer if you add a soluble aspirin and a spoonful of bleach to the water in the vase.

To make a standard radiator fade into the background, paint it the same colour as the walls it stands against. If the wall is papered, use a paint that matches the background colour of the design. An eggshell or a flat oil finish will further help the radiator to "disappear".

When space is tight, it's sometimes good to think big. A significant piece of over-sized furniture can deliver drama and gravitas to a small room.

If windows enjoy a beautiful view, choose curtains or blinds that provide a frame rather than needless competition.

You can extend the burning time of beeswax candles by keeping them in the fridge for at least 24 hours before you use them.

When choosing a carpet from sample pieces, always put the samples on the floor to see how they look rather than choosing the one that looks best when held in the hand.

If your cat (or dog) sleeps on the sofa, the quickest way to remove any hairs is to put on a dry rubber glove and use it to brush the fabric in one direction. The hairs will gather into a neat little pile.

If you are troubled by companies cold-calling to sell you plastic windows, bathroom fittings or "dream" holidays, contacting the Telephone Preference Service, 0845 070 0707, will help put a stop to it. Full details of the service can be found at www.tpsonline.org.uk.