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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Why isn't my leaf blower working? 6 solutions to fix a gas leaf blower
It's incredibly frustrating when your leaf blower won't work – this is all you need to know to fix the six most common leaf blower problems
By Alex David Published
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When is it antisocial to use a leaf blower? Experts reveal leaf blower etiquette
Leaf blowers can can be incredibly disruptive. I spoke to an etiquette expert for all you need to know about leaf blower etiquette
By Alex David Published
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Wooden vs vinyl fences – which is best? Construction experts weigh in
There's a lot to consider when it comes to wooden vs vinyl fences. I spoke to construction and fecning experts about the pros and cons of each material
By Alex David Published
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Patio covers vs pergolas – which outdoor structure is best?
I spoke to a specialist about patio covers vs pergolas to find out which outdoor structure is best. While pergolas are sturdier, a patio cover is better value
By Alex David Published
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Do outdoor security lights deter animals? A wildlife expert explains why your lights won't keep unwanted animals away
Security lights keep humans at bay, but they won't work on raccoons, deer, or bears. According to a wildlife expert, this is what you need to do instead
By Alex David Published
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Leaf blowers vs leaf vacuums – which is best for your yard, and should you bother with either?
It's not obvious which is best between leaf blowers v leaf vaccums. As a product tester, this is all you need to know about these controversial yard tools
By Alex David Published
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How to remove algae from a fence – the easiest process and two methods you should never use
This foolproof solution is the only way to remove algae from a fence. These are all the ways of removing algae from a fence, and two methods to avoid
By Alex David Published
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The best places for security lights – crucial advice from a former FBI agent
Security and law enforcement experts reveal the smartest spots to put security lights
By Alex David Published
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Where to place solar lights – 6 rules from solar specialists
It can be hard to know where to place solar lights. I spoke to a solar expert about the best spots to place solar lights to ensure they shine their brightest
By Alex David Published
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Are solar lights actually eco-friendly? Energy experts advise
Solar lights are eco-friendly, but not as green as they claim. I spoke to energy experts about solar lights and whether claims of eco-friendliness are actually true
By Alex David Published
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Weber vs Traeger – which pellet grill should I buy? Advice from a product tester
They're two titans of the grilling game, but who comes out on top between Weber vs Traeger? As a product tester, this is all you need to know about the brands
By Alex David Published
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How to season a grill – executive chefs reveal why grill seasoning is a summer essential
I spoke to culinary experts about how to season a grill. They reveal why this extra step can take your grilling game to the next level
By Alex David Published
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How to uplight a tree – expert methods for big trees, small trees, and shrubs
I spoke to lighting and landscaping expert about how to uplight a tree. They gave me expert methods and tips and tricks for color and brightness
By Alex David Published
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Are solar lights ever worth it? 5 truths from an expert product tester
I've tested plenty of solar lights, and I think they can be worth it – but only sometimes. These are the five truths I've learned from years of testing
By Alex David Published
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How to buy good solar lights – 8 tips from an expert tester
After years of testing, I've finally worked out how to buy good solar lights. These 8 tips will help you finally buy some solar lights that actually work
By Alex David Published
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The best wood for fire pits revealed – and the wood you should avoid
Using the best wood for fire pits will save your evening from gross smoke. These are the best species of wood for a fire, and the wood you should avoid
By Alex David Published
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Should I keep my security lights on all night? An ex-SWAT security expert advises
I spoke to lighting and security expert about whether you should keep your security lights on all night. It's the safest thing to do, but not without drawbacks
By Alex David Published
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How to light your garden for wildlife – expert tips on how you can stop your lights from harming little critters
I spoke to an expert landscape architect about how to light your garden to protect local wildlife. This all you need to know to save bats and birds from harm
By Alex David Published
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Best Weber alternatives – unsung grills that might be better for your backyard
If Weber marketing makes you suspicious, it might be worth considering the best Weber alternatives. These tested grills can go toe to toe with the big brands
By Alex David Published
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How to light a garden path – lighting designers reveal 8 ways to avoid the dreaded 'runway light'
I spoke to industry-leading lighting designers about how to light a garden path. Their insider tips reveal how to make your lights pretty but practical
By Alex David Published
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Is it legal to have a fire in your backyard? An expert attorney reveals how to stay on the right side of the law
There are a lot of laws governing fire safety. I spoke to an expert attorney about if it's legal to a fire in your backyard, and how obey the rules
By Alex David Published
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Why aren't my solar lights working? 5 easy fixes, plus why your lights should always face south
I spoke to an electrical engineer about why your solar lights aren't working, and how to fix them. These five fixes bring new life to old lights
By Alex David Published
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Can I cut my neighbor's hedge? Legal and real estate experts provide clarity on this often confusing issue
It's not always obvious if you can trim a hedge growing into your yard - this is all you need to know about the law
By Alex David Published
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The most common HOA watering violations – and how to avoid them in your yard
I spoke to real estate experts about common homeowner association watering laws, and if there's any way to get around them
By Alex David Published