Rachel Weisz | Home Beautiful

How to do laundry like a pro in 7 easy steps

Rachel Weisz — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 23:32:24 +0000

Learning to do laundry is like learning how to take your first steps: it’s a basic life skill that involves a few bumps and falls along the way – and required a little help from our parents.

From turning your first white load pink, to shrinking a beloved sweater, mistakes are just part of the process. And then, just when you think you’ve got the hang of this whole laundry thing – new products, trends and viral cleaning hacks challenge everything you know, and you’re back to square one.

However, doing your laundry isn’t as scary as we make it out to be. Whether you’re tackling your very first load, or are simply looking to refine your routine, we’ve curated a step-by-step guide on how to do laundry like a pro, complete with extra tips, tricks and product recommendations from the editors at Home Beautiful.

“My top laundry tip? Teach everyone else in your household how to do laundry”
– Julia Fairley, Senior Copy Editor

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Before you start (click here)
Step 1: make sure you have your laundry essentials (click here)
Step 2: sort your laundry (click here)
Step 3: choose the right detergent (click here)
Step 4: pre-treat stains (click here)
Step 5: check pockets and remove items (click here)
Step 6: pick a temperature and cycle (click here)
Step 7: dry your laundry (click here)
Step 8: hang, fold and store (click here)
The ultimate laundry buyers guide (click here)

Photographer: Simon Whitbread

Before you start

Check care labels: We’ve all been guilty of ignoring the care label; however, it’s the most important step to making sure your clothes have longevity and the care they deserve. Common fabrics like cotton, synthetic and wool all have their own specific care requirements to prevent damage.

Care label instructions on clothing can feature symbols or words. The symbols can be broken down into washing, bleaching, drying, ironing and professional care. For a detailed breakdown of these symbols, you can refer to the ACCC website.

Step 1: make sure you have your laundry essentials

Having the right tools can make a world of difference. Other than the obvious washing machine, here are all the products you’ll need to get started:

Laundry detergent:

Skip to step 3 to see what laundry detergent is best for you.

Dryer balls:

Stain remover:

Lint roller:

Drying racks and clothespins:

Should you use fabric softener?

The purpose of fabric softener is simple: to soften your clothes. Fabric softener has been widely debated for years on its performance. Ultimately, fabric softener is a non-essential item that can even have negative effects on your clothes and your washing machine. It has been known to reduce the effectiveness of absorption overtime and can even cause white clothing to appear yellow. Additionally, build-up in washing machines can lead to maintenance issues.

Step 2: sort your laundry

You may have heard in the past to sort your laundry into colours and whites to prevent bleeding and dye transfer, but you should also sort your laundry by fabric. Always check the care label before washing your clothing. By doing this, you will be able to organise your clothing based on its washing methods, including water temperature, washing cycle and drying.

If you have a blended fabric (for example, 80% cotton and 20% polyester), it is best to follow the instructions for the most delicate material in the mix. For example, if your clothing contains wool or silk, its best to take extra care and follow the care instructions as per these delicate materials.

Social Media Content Producer Emily Murray says she swears by “investing in a good laundry basket system! I’ve got one for each of our rooms that I divide all our clothes into! And they’re collapsible so they save space.”

Getty Images

Step 3: choose the right detergent

The right laundry detergent makes a huge difference to how your clothes look and feel. Avoid harsh detergents on softer materials like wool and silk. Stronger detergents work best on linen and cotton. Polyester (a synthetic), tends to trap stains easier – which is why a heavy-duty detergent is a better choice. Enzyme-based formulas are particularly effective for breaking down oil-based stains on polyester and other synthetic fabrics.

Choosing what type of detergent also comes down to personal preference.

Liquid detergent: Suitable for all washing machines. Laundry detergent can dissolve easily in hot and cold water, which also means is doesn’t create as much residue or build-up on clothing or in the machine. Its formula also makes it effective in pre-treating stains.

Powder: The granular texture of a powder detergent is effective for tackling heavy stains, particularly natural stains like mud and grass. However, powder detergent can leave residue if used in cold water (or if you use too much). To prevent this, it is recommended to pre-dissolve the detergent in warm water before adding to the load.

Pods: Laundry pods are convenient and easy to use, taking the hassle out of measuring your liquid or powder detergent. Pods are best for standard, everyday loads. However, if not dissolved properly they can lead to residue on your clothes. To avoid this, make sure to place them directly in the drum and not in the detergent drawer. Make sure you store pods, and all other detergents away from children.

Tip: The less laundry detergent, the better. “I reduced the amount of laundry detergent I use after I found out a lot of people use too much. It’s made a huge difference to how my washed clothes feel – as well as saving me money because I get more washes out of a bottle” – Amy Bradney-George, SEO specialist.

Eco-friendly alternatives:

For the eco-conscious, there’s a variety of eco-friendly alternatives to traditional laundry detergent. This can include plant-based detergents, laundry strips, soapberries, baking soda and more. Below are some of our top picks:

Step 4: pre-treat stains

A general rule to remove stains is to act fast. to make sure you attack stains as quickly as possible, and check the care label as not all stain-removing techniques work for different materials.

“Bicarb soda is amazing for removing minor stains and marks from clothes, especially on clothes that you may not want to use a heavier-duty product on,” says our SEO specialist Amy Bradney-George.

Certain stains require special techniques to remove, while many can be handled with a spot treatment. If your stain is still fresh, blot any excess with a paper towel or cloth. For dried stains, you can remove any excess by gently scraping off the top layer.

Massage the stain with stain remover, or soak in a pre-treatment solution if the stain is older and won’t budge. Let your pre-treatment soak for a few minutes before washing. For specific stains, you can read this guide here.

“My Macedonian mother-in-law boils her whites on the stove, washes them, then puts the shirts IN the freezer before ironing them. No one ever looks more immaculate than her, she has always looked like Jacquie Kennedy”
– Lucy Gough, Stylist

Photography: Simon Whitbread | Styling: Jamee Deaves

Step 5: check pockets and remove items

A small but crucial step in your laundry process should be to check all pockets and remove any items such as coins, belts and other metal items that can cause damage to your washing machine. Taking a few seconds to check before loading your laundry can help prevent these issues.

Step 6: pick a temperature and cycle

There are various washing machine cycles to choose from, and no two washing machines are the same. It’s important to choose your wash cycle based on the construction, colour, and types of fabrics you are washing. The most commonly used cycles are:

Delicate Cycles: Delicate cycles involve low or no spin to avoid agitating the fabric. It’s best to keep the temperature of the water to cool, which can help prevent unwanted shrinkage on some items. For items that near some extra care, a mesh bag adds an extra layer of protection for your knits and delicates to avoid agitation but still thoroughly washing your pieces.

Normal Cycles: Everyday laundry items made of cotton, linen and some synthetics can handle the normal cycle, which is often a more intense wash due to the fast spin cycle.

Quick Wash: This is the fastest wash cycle – usually 30-minutes – and can be the most energy-saving options. Often, it includes a high-speed spin cycle to speed up the drying time, which is best for lightly-soiled clothing that needs more of a refresh. Due to the intense spin cycle, it’s best to avoid washing delicate fabrics on this cycle to prevent damage.

Choosing the right temperature: For best results, wash whites in warm or hot water, and cool or warm for coloured clothing.

Photography: Dave Wheeler | Styling: Lisa Burden

Step 7: dry your laundry

It is important to remove your load from the washing machine as soon as you can to reduce wrinkles and prevent mildew. There are many ways to dry your laundry. Some options include:

Maximise your spin cycle: Use a high spin setting on your washing machine to speed up the drying process. Make sure your fabrics are suitable for this method. The best hack is to keep your loads small.

Air drying outdoors: For best results, hang clothes in a well-ventilated area with plenty of airflow. Ensure garments are spaced apart to allow for even drying.

Air drying indoors: It’s best to hang your clothing near a window, a radiator, a fan or by a dehumidifier to avoid mould buildup and increase ventilation.

If you are in a cooler climate, heated clothes airers are a cost-effective alternative to drying your garments indoors.

Tip: Hang your wet garments on hangers for faster drying, and with less creases.

Machine dryers: If you opt for a dryer, popping a totally dry bath towel into the mix of wet clothes will absorb moisture from your load. Alternatively, add a tennis ball or dryer ball to the drum to ensure the fabric is aerated. An extra tip is to always empty the lint filter after each load, as a full filter increases drying time and reduces efficiency. Again, it is important to check your garments care tag to see if they are dryer-safe.

Our Senior Copy Editor Julia Fairley’s favourite laundry tip is to “hang up everything that needs to be ironed on hangers while it dries as this helps remove the wrinkles.”

Getty Images

Step 8: hang, fold and store

Storing your clothes once they are dry will help prevent wrinkles from forming. A stable, climate-controlled space with good ventilation will help your fabrics breathe.

However, if your clothes need a bit of extra smoothing, investing in a good iron or handheld steamer can make a difference. For those stubborn creases, Shopping Editor Jess G. Lynch swears by a handheld steamer: “Investing in a handheld steamer is my biggest laundry hack. No need to whip out the ironing board, a handheld steamer can get the creases and wrinkles out of your most delicate materials (e.g. silk) without the fear of burning the material.”

For those who constantly on the go, Jess adds: “A steamer is also great for when you’re running late in the mornings as you can set it up, steam your outfit and get out the door in under five minutes!”

And there you have it! This step-by-step guide on how to do laundry is everything you need to perfect your washing routine. Don’t have all the essentials? Check out our handy shopping guides below, or scroll back up to find some of our top rated laundry products.

BUYERS GUIDES

The post How to do laundry like a pro in 7 easy steps appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Afterpay Day sales 2025: score up to 70% off homewares, furniture and appliances

Rachel Weisz — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 03:34:33 +0000

Afterpay Day sales are almost here, which means it’s a great time to nab all of the homewares, furniture and bedding you’ve been eyeing out. Decking out your home with stylish accessories can cost a pretty penny, so it pays to be savvy and scope out all of the best deals and sales before you make a purchase.

Afterpay Day for 2025 runs for four days, starting on March 20 and ending March 23, this year. Since time is of the essence, we’ll help you save a bit of time by listing out the best sales that are happening across the board for Afterpay Day this year – from homewares to furniture, outdoor entertaining, appliances and more.

Best Afterpay Day sales homes 2025

Adairs: Save up to 50% on clearance
Barbeques Galore: Up to 60% Off Outdoor Furniture at Barbeques Galore
Bed Bath N’ Table: Flash sale up to 60% off
David Jones: Up to 25% off selected new season fashion, shoes and accessories
Ecosa: Save up to 35% OFF site wide
EVA Sleep: Up to $325 off the Comfort Classic Mattress $110 off Timber Bed Frame up to $170 off
Fantastic Furniture: Get up to 15% off selected bedroom products at Fantastic Furniture! Shop in-store or online
Freedom: 30% off sitewide PLUS free local delivery. 1 day only. Online only*
I Love Linen: Enjoy 25% off quilt covers & sheet sets, plus 10% off wear & dining collections
Linen House: 20% off sitewide, minimum spend $200
MYER: Up to 50% off selected dinnerware, glassware and more
Pillow Talk: 30% off full priced items
Spotlight: 30-50% off all cookware – Includes Tefal, Equip, Scanpan, Raco, Wiltshire and more!
Temple & Webster: Up to 40% off selected items

Best Afterpay Day sales appliances and electronics 2025

ANKER: Save up to 50%
Appliances Online: Receive $75 Off* when you spend $750 or more at Appliances Online. Use code: APDAY75 at checkout
Big W: 50% off selected Small Appliances – Online Only (e.g. iRobot Roomba, Phillips Airfryer, Russell Hobbs Toaster)
Dyson: Save up to $550 on Dyson technology, including beauty products. Limited time only. PLUS
eBay: Save 20%* with eBay Plus this Afterpay Day
JB Hi-Fi: Spend over $300 & Get $30 OFF* use code AFTERPAY2025
Kogan: Up to 65% off
Nespresso: Enjoy 2 free Barista Cappuccino cups and free standard delivery when you order 160 capsules or more*
Sony: Get $40 off* eligible orders over $300 when you use code: AFTERPAYDAY40 at checkout

What is Afterpay Day?

Afterpay Day is a bi-yearly sale organised by Afterpay in March and August that runs over three or four days. During the sale, participating retailers offer exclusive discounts and promotions from a wide range of categories from homewares to electronics, fashion and beauty.

When is the Afterpay Day for 2025?

Lucky for us, the first Afterpay Day sale is almost upon us. The Afterpay Day sale will run from 8am Thursday 20 March to Sunday 23 March. Dates for Afterpay Day in August will be released later in the year, so make sure you bookmark this tab to be the first one to know.

Do you need to use Afterpay to shop Afterpay Day sales?

You actually don’t need to use Afterpay to shop these sales – the choice is yours.

What are the best Afterpay Day deals?

The Afterpay Day sales will see up to 70% off thousands of products and experiences, from homewares to tech, travel and more. Brands we have our eyes set on include The Iconic, eBay, Dyson, Seed Heritage, Rebel Sport and more.

Make sure you bookmark this page to be the first to know on any specific sales and other participating retailers. Afterpay Day is the perfect opportunity to get your hands on the latest homewares, furniture, electronic, while also scoring some sweet savings.

The post Afterpay Day sales 2025: score up to 70% off homewares, furniture and appliances appeared first on Home Beautiful.

I was hopeless at making coffee, until I found the perfect machine

Rachel Weisz — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 02:33:27 +0000

I wouldn’t call myself a coffee snob per se, but as a product of living in Australia – home to arguably the best coffee in the world – I can’t deny my love for the warm embrace of a perfect brew.

While my morning commute often involves a large oat latte (a lifesaver) made by a barista (coffee wizard) in some trendy (overpriced) local café, this lifestyle is no longer a sustainable option for me as someone who commutes four days a week amid a cost-of-living crisis.

However, when it comes to making coffee at home, my knowledge of what makes a perfect cup tends to fall short. Plus, despite owning a manual coffee machine, I find myself too tired and irritated in the morning to be able to properly make a good coffee, resulting in bitter, weak brews with inconsistently frothed milk. I also do not have enough time in the morning for the clean-up. On those days, I close my eyes and wish that a perfectly brewed coffee would magically appear in my hands.

So, when I was offered to review the Magnifico Evo Next fully automatic coffee machine, and online exclusive by De’Longhi, I jumped at the chance to finally perfect my morning coffee routine. Normally priced at $1,149, it’s now just $899 for our readers with the code “HOME” at checkout.

De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next review verdict

Our rating: 9 out of 10
Why we rated it a 9/10: The automatic coffee machine is a time-saver during the morning rush. With a user friendly display, customisable drink options and easily removable components for an easy clean – it’s the perfect companion for people with busy routines who are short on time, or just crave a barista-style coffee experience at home.

Pros

Extremely easy to use
Time-saving machine. Barista-like coffee is made with just one touch of a button
User friendly display with eight soft-touch buttons
Customisable with 13 drink options
Removable, dishwasher safe components make it easy to clean

Cons

At 44cm long, the coffee machine would be best suited for deeper kitchen counters
Can be loud when turning on and shutting down machine

Courtesy of De’Longhi

What’s so special about De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next?

The De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next is a fully automated machine, which is perfect for those who want quick and easy, specialty made coffee at home. The machine sits in the higher end of the entry tier for automatic machines, however performs like a mid-high tier machine. This coffee machine is great for busy parents, or those who have long morning commutes and desire a quick pick-me-up before the day starts. It is also fully customisable with 13 drink options and can store three user profiles. Plus, if you’re like me and find milk frothing an impossible task, the machine features a carafe for perfectly frothed milk at the touch of a button.

De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next features and size

Size: 240 x 440 x 360 mm
Weight: 9.6 kg
Milk carafe with LatteCrema Hot Technology
3 user profiles for advanced personalisation
Soft touch buttons
2.4′ TFT colour display
Twin shot
Can use beans and pre-ground coffee
Programmable water hardness
Water filter included

How to use the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next

You will need to put some time aside to set up your coffee machine and to give it all the attention it deserves. The machine set up is made easy with an instructional display that will guide you through every step of the process.

On first use, it will guide you through a standard setup. This includes filling the water tank, running through a rinsing cycle, and testing the water hardness level. You also have the option to install a water filter, which is included in the box. While a lengthy process, the instructions are detailed and you have the option to go back to previous instructions in case you missed a step. You only need to go through this process once, and then you’re all set!

At first use, the De’Longhi machine recommends making 4-5 coffees before drinking to obtain the ideal result in a cup. Use this as an opportunity to play around with size and intensity to see what you like best. The machine also has an option to use pre-ground coffee instead of beans. Once you find a coffee setting that you like best, you have the option to save this profile for future use.

As for beans, I used the Dhuwa Coffee Beans Kickstart Blendfrom Woolworths, however De’Longhi have their own signature and specialty blends that you can purchase.

Results from our test

As someone who doesn’t have a lot of time in the morning, I loved using the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next for a quick and easy coffee before my commute. I found the display beginner-friendly, and the machine easy to use. After many coffees – and a lot of caffeine – I found myself buzzing with excitement after every brew.

It took me around 10 coffees to figure out what settings I liked to use and to create my user profile. I don’t have anyone else in my household who likes coffee, but there are two more user profiles available if that changes, or if I feel like shaking things up a little bit. Plus, with 13 drink options, variety is just a button away!

Ultimately, the whole coffee making process takes around three minutes, including the machine warm up and clean up process. As for physical labour, I spent at most 30 seconds with the machine, including turning on and off the machine, choosing my coffee profile and filling the carafe with milk. This meant the rest of the time was reserved for cleaning and putting my energy into other tasks. I found this process so much more beneficial for my time compared to using a manual coffee machine which needed a lot of time and attention to make the perfect coffee.

The machine itself is wider than a standard pod machine but still small enough to fit on most kitchen benches., Those with small kitchen spaces like myself might not benefit from such a long machine taking up their island space. Gratefully, I have my own separate coffee table set-up (I highly recommend this, you’ll feel like your own personal barista) so it wasn’t an issue for me. I would also recommend keeping a container nearby as the machine expels water before and after use. If you do forget however, the machine will let you know when the drip tray is ready to be emptied.

Overall, is the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next worth it?

Absolutely. While the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next is a large machine, if you have the space, this machine is going to be a gamechanger for your home. It has already saved me so much time and money as I no longer need to buy coffee’s out. Plus, the barista-style results are a delicious bonus.

Where to buy the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next

The De’Longhi Magnifica Evo Next is exclusively available online. Normally priced at $1,149, De’Longhi is offering it to our readers for just $899. Simply use the code “HOME” at checkout.

Magnifica Evo Next, price $899 (usually $1149), De’Longhi

The post I was hopeless at making coffee, until I found the perfect machine appeared first on Home Beautiful.

A buyers guide to the best freestanding bathtubs for a touch of elevated luxury

Rachel Weisz — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 03:03:02 +0000

A stylish tub can make or break your bathroom renovations. For newly renovated bathrooms, a freestanding bathtub exudes luxury.

A freestanding bathtub is designed to be the focal point of the room. “Freestanding tubs are all about making a statement,” says interior designer Jono Fleming. “They bring a sculptural, spa-like quality to a bathroom and offer more flexibility in placement since they don’t have to be built into a specific alcove.”

Freestanding tubs are an ode to tradition, nodding to a period of time before built-in bathtubs became the standard. “When you look at homes from an older period, baths were always freestanding. Historically, that’s where we’ve come from,” says Sarah from Sarah Yarrow Interiors. “Our housing is much smaller these days and so we’ve had to adapt the bathroom style to that, and that’s where the built-in ones have come from.”

Now, freestanding baths can fit any bathroom interior style. From Victorian-style homes to mid-century interiors, freestanding tubs will compliment your space, as long as your bathroom has capacity. “One of the biggest mistakes is choosing a tub that’s too big for the space, making it hard to move around,” says Jono.

To help you find the best freestanding bathtub for your home, we’ve curated a list of the best tubs on the market based on their materials, aesthetic, customer reviews and advice from the experts.

2025’s TOP FREESTANDING BATHTUBS

Caroma Urbane II freestanding bath, $1889 (usually $3072), The Blue Space (here’s why)
Marbella Acrylic Freestanding Bath, from $799, Mytopia (here’s why)
Fienza Eleanor fluted freestanding bath, from $2079 (usually $2295), Temple & Webster (here’s why)

The best freestanding bathtubs in 2025

Caroma Urbane II freestanding bath

$1889 (usually $3072), The Blue Space

Best for: Simple luxury

While understated in form, the Urbane II freestanding bathtub doesn’t spare on luxury. Crafted from acrylic with a gloss finish, the bath is available in two sizes for any modern bathroom space.

Sizes: Available in 1600mm and 1800mm sizes

Materials: Acrylic

Key Features:

Includes footlocker fittings to improve stability
Rectangular Oval
310 L water capacity
10-year warranty

Shop Now

Fontaine Industries Harper acrylic freestanding bath

From $849, Temple & Webster

Best for: Vintage charm

The new and old world combine for this freestanding bath, available in three sizes. Made of sanitary grade acrylic, the black high gloss finish offers a classic vintage touch for an elegant centrepiece.

Sizes: Available in 1500mm, 1600mm and 1700mm sizes

Materials: Acrylic, fibreglass

Key Features:

256 L water capacity
Gloss finish
Centre drain
7-year product warranty

Shop Now

Fienza Elizabeth freestanding clawfoot bath

From $1539, Temple & Webster

Best for: Old worldly charm

With its classic slipper shape, this freestanding clawfoot bath adds timeless style to any eclectic or traditional home. Pair with vintage-style fixtures for a Hollywood regency style, or rustic interiors for a farmhouse escape.

Sizes: Available in 1500mm or 1700mm sizes

Materials: Acrylic

Key Features:

Traditional slipper shape
180L water capacity for the 1500mm size
210L water capacity for the 1700mm size
Available with chrome, black and white legs

Shop Now

Indy 1700mm Oval Terrazzo Freestanding Bath with Overflow

From $5799, Temple & Webster

Best for: Unique feature piece

For that feeling of unparalleled elegance, this terrazzo freestanding bath by Madu Living is handcrafted from natural composite stone, while the soft matte texture brings a natural and calming appearance to any space for a spa-like indulgence.

Sizes: 1700 mm

Materials: Terrazzo composite

Key Features:

Timeless oval design
380 L water capacity
Available in white, grey and black

Shop Now

Marbella Acrylic Freestanding Bath

From $799, Mytopia

Best for: Easy installation

Made of acrylic and with a stylish gloss finish, this tub comes in a soft rectangular shape for a contemporary yet timeless appeal. Perfect for all modern bathrooms, the gentle curves offer a luxe European approach to a freestanding bath.

Sizes: 800 x 1750 x 633mm

Materials: Acrylic, internal stainless steel frame

Key Features:

Gloss finish
10 Year structural warranty
Generous 50cm depth for a deep soak

Shop Now

Fienza Eleanor fluted freestanding bath

From $2079 (usually $2295), Temple & Webster

Best for: Adding texture to your space

The fluted design of this freestanding bathtub adds a textural element to your space, offering added interest to an already statement piece. Available in a gloss white finish, the smooth, non-fluted base perimeter simplifies cleaning ensuring that style doesn’t trump practicality.

Sizes: Available in 1500mm or 1700mm sizes

Materials: Acrylic, steel frame

Key Features:

Gloss finish
Smooth, non-fluted perimeter at the base for easy cleaning
Centre drain
Up to 10-year warranty

Shop Now

What to look for in a freestanding bathtub?

To find the best freestanding bathtub for your home, you need to consider a few factors including aesthetic, materials and size as well as your practical needs.

Freestanding bathtubs suit a wide range of aesthetics, so long as you choose one that matches your interiors. “A clawfoot or pedestal tub leans traditional, a sleek, matte-finish tub suits modern or minimalist bathrooms, and a concrete or metal-finish tub gives a bit of edge to your design”, says Jono. “If your space is more relaxed and coastal, a soft, curved white tub pairs beautifully with natural textures. The key is making sure the tub doesn’t feel out of place with the rest of the design.”

As for materials, acrylic is the most popular option as its more affordable, lightweight and easy to maintain. Other options include metal tubs such as copper or zinc. However, according to Sarah, “from a functionality perspective, they lose heat very quickly.”

Both Jono and Sarah recommend a larger space to offer more breathing room for the freestanding tub to shine. “Larger bathrooms work best, especially if you can position it near a window for natural light and a view. But even in smaller spaces, a well-proportioned freestanding tub can work, it’s just about making sure it doesn’t feel squeezed in,” says Jono.

Sarah also recommends considering how the bathtub will be installed. “It’s all very well choosing a beautiful bath, but if you can’t get it up the stairwell or through the door, then you’re never going to get to enjoy it.” For further tips, Jono recommends to “consider the size, comfort, plumbing setup, and how easy it’ll be to clean. If chosen well, a freestanding tub can completely transform your bathroom into a space you actually want to soak away in for hours.”

What are the downsides of a freestanding bath?

While freestanding bathtubs can be a stylish option to your home, consider whether the bathtub you choose is practical for your space. “I feel like the biggest mistake is people trying to fit too big a bath into a small spac e, they’re wanting that freestanding look but don’t actually have the floor space to be able to do that,” says Sarah.

If you are bathing small children, consider if a freestanding bath will benefit or hinder your routine. As Sarah notes: “Yes, with a freestanding bathtub you can access 360° around the bath, but water is going everywhere, toys are going everywhere… so it’s about knowing where you’re at in life and the functionality around that.” If this is the case, then perhaps choosing a built-in wall bathtub will better suit your space.

Both Jono and Sarah also mentioned accessibility issues. A lower profile tub is better to step into as opposed to a high-walled tub. Jono also mentioned that “a non-slip surface and grab bars can add extra safety.”

“Plumbing is also something people overlook, some freestanding tubs require floor-mounted taps, which can add extra costs,” adds Jono. “And then there’s cleaning, because freestanding tubs don’t sit against a wall, getting around them can be a hassle. A hand shower attachment can make this easier, especially in wet areas where you can essentially hose things down.”

Freestanding bathtubs are an elegant choice, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to your space. Make sure that the bathtub you choose is practical for your home, space and lifestyle.

The post A buyers guide to the best freestanding bathtubs for a touch of elevated luxury appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The best rain shower heads for a spa-like shower experience in 2025

Rachel Weisz — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 04:05:31 +0000

When you think of a rain shower head the first word that might come to mind is luxury. Think soothing water cascading down your body like a river stream, a gentle calm sweeping over you, immersing the senses. And for a moment, you are transported to a private island, an outdoor shower, and the blissful serenity of a five-star resort.

While this sounds like the ultimate fantasy (sorry to snap you out of it), rain shower heads are in fact a practical and accessible option for any home. Over the years, rain showers have been growing in popularity in many modern bathrooms. Not only do they aesthetically hit the mark, but they are functional too. Rain showers have a flatter surface and usually contain more nozzles than a traditional showerhead. They also come in a variety of sleek designs with different finishes to suit your bathroom needs.

If you’re ready to transform your shower experience, we’ve rounded up the best rain shower heads on the market based on water efficiency, pressure, style and customer reviews.

2025’s TOP RAIN SHOWER HEADS

Finley shower rail set, $599.90, Abi Interiors (here’s why)
Decaura 9″ two-in-one rain shower head, $179.99 (usually $197.99), Amazon (here’s why)
ACA International 10” two-in-one rain shower head set, $126.64 (usually $148.99), Amazon (here’s why)

The best rain shower heads 2025

250mm round shower head

$119.90, Abi Interiors

Best for: Universal fitting

This round shower head from ABI Interiors is a sleek and simple design fit for your modern bathroom renovation. Designed to be sprayed downwards, this rain shower head features 180 rubberised outlets and is fully compatible with both a shower arm or shower dropper. Available in a range of finishes, one five-star reviewer said that the shower head “really added a wow-factor to our renovated bathroom.”

Sizes: 250 mm

Materials: Solid Brass/Chrome finish

Key Features:

Universal fitting
180 rubberised outlets
Solid brass
WELS 3-star rating
Flow rate 8.5L/m

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Byron short twin rain shower head

$239.99-$269.99, Temple & Webster

Best for: Luxury feel

For a luxury experience from the comfort of your own home, the Byron short twin rain shower head is a two-in-one option to get the most out of your shower time. Featuring a large overhead frame, you can adjust the angle with the 15° ball joint to suit your shower needs. Due to the nature of the material, it is advised to avoid strong liquid cleaners for optimal care and longevity.

“This shower head is incredible, so luxurious and has a great and even flow of water. If you want something more intense, you can easily switch to the handheld which has three modes,” recommended a reviewer who gave it five stars.

Sizes: 34.2 x 20 x 35.3 cm

Materials: Brass, 304 stainless steel, ABS plastic

Key Features:

Easy twist to shift the pattern from rain shower head to handheld shower spray
15° tiltable ball joint adjustable to suit your need
Reinforcing tube, durable & rust-proof
WELS 3-star rating
Flow rate 9.0L/m
Water filter included

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Finley shower rail set

$599.90, Abi Interiors

Best for: Adjustable height

This shower head has an aura of sophistication to it. With seven colour options to choose from, the Finley shower rail set gives you the option of an immersive shower experience or a more concentrated handheld spray due to the built-in diverter. “The quality far exceeds the price. I am a 4th generation plumber and will be recommending ABI products to everyone I know. Brilliant and simple to install, and smart and stylish designs,” says a five-star reviewer.

Sizes: 101 x 40 x 150 cm

Materials: Brass, brushed nickel coating

Key Features:

Two-in-one shower set
Mixer sold seperately
WELS 3-star rating
Flow rate 8.5L/m

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Square ultrathin shower arm & head

$129.99-139.99, Temple & Webster

Best for: Longevity

Thin but mighty, this rain shower with a gooseneck shower arm has easy-to-clean rubber jets with improved hydrodynamic resistance, and a 360° swivel ball joint for easy cleaning and long lasting durability. Made of stainless steel, you have the option of a black or silver chrome finish that can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors.

Sizes: 32.5 x 30 x 45 cm

Materials: stainless steel

Key Features:

2mm gooseneck shower arm
Easy cleaning rubber jets
360° swivel
Free 6 month replacement warranty
WELS 3-star rating
Flow rate 9.0L/m

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Decaura WELS luxury 10” rain shower head

$39.94 (usually $46.99), Amazon

Best for: Complete rain shower experience

If your shower is your relaxation haven, then perhaps invest in a larger shower head for an all-round indulgence. This 10” rain shower head has 416 nozzles, which is triple the number of nozzles on a regular shower head for a wide, evenly distributed spray that feels incredibly soft on the skin. One five-star reviewer observed that “it’s like walking in warm rain,” while another five-star customer expressed that “if you like a shower head which has some pressure to it, then this might not be for you. But otherwise, it gives a lovely and luxurious feeling shower. Price wise, it’s value for money.”

Sizes: 26 x 26 x 1 cm

Materials: A‎BS plastic, chrome finish

Key Features:

WELS 3 star rated
Flow rate 9.0L/m
Large Panel Shower Head
416 nozzles
Ball joint for easy adjustment
Available in a black colourway

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Decaura 9″ two-in-one rain shower head

$179.99 (usually $197.99), Amazon

Best for: Multi-purpose use

Featuring a nine-inch wide face plate and hand held shower head, you have the option of three water-flow settings for a personalised shower experience. The rail shower set also comes with a height slider fit for everyone to enjoy.

“Very nice shower and great value for money. Was very easy to install and looks great, would recommend,” said one five-star reviewer. Other customers described the contemporary structure as “elegant” and with “good water pressure” for an all-round enjoyable experience.

Sizes: ‎92 x 34 x 12.7 cm

Materials: ‎ Stainless Steel, brass, ABS plastic, chrome finish

Key Features:

WELS 3 star rated
Flow rate 9.0L/m
220mm large cover face
Three water-flow settings
Height adjustable
5-year warranty

Also available at:

$197.99 from Big W

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Cefito 9” rain shower head set

$150.95, Myer

Best for: Luxury feel

With a built-in mesh filter, premium chrome finish and built in diverter to prevent leakage and rust, this round nine-inch rain shower head set is quality without negating style.

“Luxe on a budget,” said one happy customer who rated it five-stars. “Great showerhead! Easy to install ourselves, fantastic water pressure and the large size makes every shower feel very luxurious.” Most customers also noted how easy installation is, with one customer sharing that “it was easy to install to replace the existing shower head with no changes to the plumbing we had. Should have bought one years ago!”

Sizes: ‎22 x 12 x 1.5 cm

Materials: ‎Brass, stainless steel, ABS plastic

Key Features:

WELS 3 star rated
Flow rate 9.0L/m
9” Overhead shower head
3-spray pattern handheld shower head
Easy assembly
5-year warranty for rail, 2-year warranty for heads

Also available at:

$132.95 from Woolworths
$132.95 from Big W

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ACA International 10” two-in-one rain shower head set

$126.64 (usually $148.99), Amazon

Best for: Rainfall-like soothing experience

Another option with a large diameter is this 10-inch rain shower head with a handheld head and 360° swivel ball joint for easy adjustment and a superior clean. Many customers found this rain shower head good value for money, and noted that it was easy to install. One customer did note that the product was quite heavy, so perhaps keep that in mind when considering your installation needs.

One five-star customer commented on the “good water pressure, with two different choice of a rain shower or a hand shower.” Another happy customer thought that “This was a great buy! Easy to install, the large rain shower head is great and relaxing. Hand held shower head has great power like a normal shower head, so good switching between both!”

Sizes: ‎ ‎30 x 34.5 x 12.7 cm

Materials: ‎ ABS plastic, stainless steel, brass ‎

Key Features:

10” shower head
255mm ABS round overhead design
360° swivel ball joint
Water filter included
5-year manufacturer’s warranty

Also available at:

$139.95 from Woolworths

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What to look for in a rain shower head?

There are a few things to consider before purchasing a rain shower head, depending on your space, aesthetics and needs.

Size: Rain shower heads come in many different sizes, usually lying around six to 10 inches. A larger diameter means larger coverage which will give you a more simulated rain shower experience. This means that the water is often softer on the body with a more gentle flow. If you are after a shower head with more water pressure, then a smaller sized rain shower head may work better for you.

Water pressure and flow rate: All shower heads contain a Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rating. The higher the rating, the more water-efficient the shower head. If you are concerned about water consumption, then look for shower head models with a lower flow rate.

Wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted: Choosing a wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted design is completely up to you. A ceiling-mounted design will simulate a rain-shower effect more than a wall mounted one, however a wall-mounted shower head can sometimes be easier to install. If you are after a detachable shower hose, some rain shower units come in a two-in-one option.

Material: Stainless steel and ABS plastic are the most commonly used materials in shower heads. Stainless steel shower heads are high quality, easy to clean and rust resistant. ABS plastic is also rust-resistant, but there may be less longevity than stainless steel options. Many shower heads also come with chrome, matte black or brushed nickel finishes to match your bathroom aesthetics.

Versatility: While you may think shower heads are there to just do one job, there are many versatile options that you should consider when purchasing. Look for models with a ball joint or angle adjustment feature so that you can pivot the stream to suit you. Handheld shower heads may also come with multi-stream options like mist, jets or massage for a customisable experience.

Installation: Make sure that the shower head is compatible with your plumbing system. While many shower heads are easy to install on your own, it is wise to seek professional help if you are unsure.

Cleaning: A rain shower head with silicone nozzles is easy to clean and can be resistant to build-up. Some newer models come with self-cleaning nozzles for a hassle-free cleaning experience.

Do rain shower heads use more water?

A rain shower head does not necessarily use more water than a regular shower head. Water usage depends on many factors such as flow rate, pressure and size. Always do your research and check the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rating and flow rate. Flow rates are marked in litres per minute (L/min). For optimal water efficiency, look for shower heads that have a 4-star WELS rating, and a flow rate of 6 litres per minute or less.

The post The best rain shower heads for a spa-like shower experience in 2025 appeared first on Home Beautiful.