Alex David
As Head of eCommerce, Alex makes sure our readers find the right information to help them make the best purchase. After graduating from Cambridge, Alex learned the tricks of the trade at the Good Housekeeping Institute, testing everything from vacuums to washing machines to dog toys to exercise bikes. He then moved to BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, where he got into the weeds to discover the best gardening tools, machinery, and wildlife products. At a time when it can be tricky to know what's what, and when budgets are tighter than ever, helping readers to find the right products to make their lives a little easier is a genuine passion.
When he's not scouring the internet for the latest and greatest homeware products, you can find Alex on a run, reading, or obsessing about the mighty (honestly) Tottenham Hotspur FC.
Latest articles by Alex David
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Are plastic yard tools toxic? Horticultural experts reveal why you should remove black plastic from your yard
Many plastic kitchen utensils can be toxic, and the same might be true in your yard. I spoke to experts to find out whether or not plastic yard tools are toxic
By Alex David Published
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How much does it cost to install a heated driveway? Experts reveal the exact cost-per-foot
Heated driveways mean the end of tiresome snow shoveling. However, they're expensive to install. I spoke to experts about how much to spend on a heated driveway
By Alex David Published
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How to remove icicles – expert steps for removing icicles from gutters, porches, and eaves
They look pretty, but icicles can pose a significant danger to your wallet, your property, and even your health
By Alex David Published
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Ice melt alternatives debunked – experts reveal which 4 methods never work and the household products that will
Before you cover your yard in vinegar or kosher salt, we reveal the homemade ice melt methods that actually work
By Alex David Published
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Air plant terrariums vs succulent terrariums – plant experts explain the difference and reveal which is best for your home
Discover how to pick the right one for different spaces in your home
By Alex David Published
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Experts reveal how to prepare garden tools for spring
Learning how to prepare garden tools for spring is a simple and cheap way to get the most out of a garden. Here's how to restore tools to their 'factory edge'
By Alex David Published
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Landscaping experts reveal 3 home fixes for waterlogged lawns – you won't find better DIY lawn drainage solutions
A waterlogged lawn can cause a lot of issues, but it's often an expensive problem to solve. I spoke to landscaping experts for 3 cheaper DIY solutions
By Alex David Published
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6 French drain alternatives – and why a common tree could be a secret solution for waterlogged lawns
French drains are a common way of fixing waterlogged lawns, but they aren't a perfect solution. These 6 French drain alternatives could be smarter choices
By Alex David Published
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How to apply ice melt – de-icing pros reveal the precise ice-melt-per-yard ratio for frost-free driveways, paths, and decks
Ice melt seems pretty simple, but this winter essential can be harmful to beloved pets. I spoke to experts about how to apply ice melt safely and effectively
By Alex David Published
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Is it illegal to harvest rainwater? Why collecting water in your yard could be against the law – and how to avoid a fine
It used to be illegal to harvest rainwater in Colorado. The law has since changed, but the penalties could still be expensive
By Alex David Published
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Should you ever use a griddle attachment on a grill? Chefs advise on a cookout controversy
I asked pro chefs if you should ever use a griddle attachment on a grill. Their responses surprised me – a griddle can be useful, but not in every case
By Alex David Published
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Closed vs open terrariums – a plant nursery expert explains which is best for your home
Should you keep your terrarium open or closed? Here are the best terrarium tactics
By Alex David Published
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Terrariums vs houseplants – experts reveal which is best for your home
I spoke to a plant expert about terrariums vs houseplants. She gave me the key differences, and how to work out which is best for your space
By Alex David Published
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French drains vs trench drains – experts explain the difference, and uncover which is best for your yard
Drainage isn't the most exciting topic, but the wrong choice between French drains vs trench drains can be costly. I spoke to pros about the key differences
By Alex David Published
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Experts reveal the best way to shovel snow safely and effectively – and how a secret trick with cooking oil can prevent injury
There are few winter chores are dreaded as shoveling snow. I spoke to landscaping experts about the safest ways to shovel snow off paths and driveways
By Alex David Published
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How much does it cost to install a French drain? Experts reveal the exact cost-per-foot, and the 'hidden' costs the landscaping industry doesn't mention
French drains are a stylish water management system, but they can be expensive. This is exactly how much to spend on a French drain so you don't get swindled
By Alex David Published
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How to buy a compost bin – expert tips to help you pick a plastic, wood, or tumbler bin for your yard waste
Learning how to buy a compost bin can help you save hundreds of dollars. I spoke to the pros about how to find the very best compost bins
By Alex David Published
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When to dewinterize your garden – the temperature triggers to mark in your gardening diary, and how to get your yard ready for spring
Keep an eye on the thermometer for these key temperatures; they'll tell you when to get your yard equipment ready
By Alex David Published
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Where to place a terrarium – 4 perfect spots for terrariums and two dangerous places to always avoid
Learning where to place a terrarium can save you hours of horticultural heartache. I spoke to two terrarium experts about the best places for a terrarium
By Alex David Published
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French drains vs dry wells – which is best for backyard water management?
You have to consider French drains vs dry wells when sorting our your garden drainage. I spoke to a pro landscaper about which is best for different gardens
By Alex David Published
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How to prevent algae in a rain barrel – 5 simple steps, and the one error to avoid that could ruin your garden
Algae can turn a rain barrel from a useful container to a stagnant nuisance. Learning how to prevent algae in your rain barrel will help keep your garden clean
By Alex David Published
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Rain barrel mistakes – 4 common errors, and expert methods to help you fix them
Rain barrels can be a game changer but they can be finicky. I spoke to an expert about the most common rain barrel mistakes and the easy solutions to fix them
By Alex David Published
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Best places for a rain chain – experts reveal 4 perfect spots, and a certain spot you should never hang one
Rain chains turn boring downspouts into beautiful water features. I spoke to garden experts and structural engineers about the best places for a rain chain
By Alex David Published
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How to sharpen a spade – 5 fast steps for a better and quicker dig
Gardening pros reveal how to sharpen a spade for easier digging in the spring
By Alex David Published