The manual for everyday life
How to guides for everything
Clear, step-by-step instructions for everyday jobs at home and beyond — what you’ll need, how long it takes, and when to call a professional.
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All new guides- Cleaning & laundry How to wash a duvet Many synthetic duvets can go in a home washing machine, as long as it's big enough. Wool needs a cooler, gentler approach, and feather or down often …
- Health & wellbeing How to get treatment from a pharmacy without seeing a GP (Pharmacy First) In England, most pharmacies can assess and, if needed, give prescription medicine for seven common conditions without a GP appointment. Here's what's…
- Health & wellbeing How to use NHS 111 NHS 111 is free, available 24 hours a day and tells you the right place to get help when it's urgent but not a 999 emergency. Use it online, in the N…
- Home & DIY How to unblock a toilet A blocked toilet can usually be cleared with a proper toilet plunger, or hot water and washing-up liquid. Here's what to do, what not to do, and when…
- Home & DIY How to unblock a sink Most blocked kitchen and bathroom sinks can be cleared without harsh chemicals. Work through these methods in order, from the simplest to clearing ou…
- Pets How to trim your dog's nails Long nails can be uncomfortable and affect how your dog walks. Here's how to clip them a little at a time, avoid the quick, and what to do if a nail …
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Most read- Pets How to introduce a new cat to your cat Rushing introductions is the main reason cats fall out for good. This step-by-step method uses a separate room, scent swapping and short supervised m…
- Pets How to remove a tick from a dog or cat Ticks should come off as soon as you spot them. Use a tick twister: slide, twist, lift. Never pull, squeeze or burn them.
- Pets How to get your cat microchipped In England pet cats, including indoor cats, must be microchipped and registered by 20 weeks old. Here's what to do, what it costs and how to keep the…
- Money & paperwork How to renew a UK passport Renew an adult British passport online through GOV.UK – the cheapest and quickest way – and avoid the common mistakes that cause delays.
- Travel How to apply for a GHIC card Apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) through the official NHS website so you can get state healthcare in the EU at the same cost a…
- Pets How to trim a cat's claws safely Most outdoor cats wear their claws down themselves, but older and indoor cats often need a trim. Here's how to clip just the tip without hitting the …
How every guide works
- At a glance How long it takes, how hard it is and roughly what it costs.
- What you’ll need Tools and materials, listed before you start.
- Numbered steps One job at a time — jump to any step, or print the lot.
- Safety and when to call a pro Real warnings, and when the job needs a qualified person.
- Sources and a checked date So you can see where the facts come from.
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