Back to Basics

Cooking from scratch for those who are been around long enough will remember it used to be just called cooking. Growing vegetables was dependant on having access to a patch of land, allotment or back garden. Even if it was only some herbs or one crop many had something they could grow, even in a clay pot on the windowsill, it was always and still is possible.

Clothes had been expensive, fast fashion with cheap nylon fabrics and sweat shops imports have artificially changed the landscape.  A decent pair of trousers that would last years and cost a few days wages now cost a couple hours of wages and last a few months before fading, snagging or losing its shape.

On the plus side there is a growing trend for things that served us well for many years and now finding new younger users. Thankfully the good old fashioned hot water bottle is one of the survivors in this modern digital age.  We all know just how comforting they are to use but it’s often forgotten just how economical and green they are. Rather than switching the central heating boiler on a day when there is just a chill it makes more sense to have a hot water bottle on your lap or take one to bed and keep the boiler off saving energy.

 

 Turn the hot water bottle on

Back to basics is a good way to reconnect with the things that actually work and work well, it’s why the humble hot water bottle never went away and still thrives today. Those that tried electric blankets in the 70’s and 80’s will know just how stifling they can be, the heat is from top to toe, many swelter in an artificial tropical climate under the sheets, what we really need is just our feet kept warm or a warm bottle to snuggle up to. Many didn't know or not informed of the danger pairing an electric blanket with some mattresses can be dangerous. Not all mattresses are suitable and great care needs to be taken if creased, regularly remove and check to continue using safely. Ease of use and the flexibility is why a bottle is the preferred choice, there are the new long ones, latex allergy free or plasticiser free, foot warmers and neck warmers, (yes, they actually have a bottle inside) and of course we all love our rubber hot water bottle.

 

 Back to nature

 

The awful COVID-19 epidemic amplified and accelerated the back-to-basics journey, with shopping trips off the cards and less places to visit we are turning our homes into a sanctuary. Home comforts, cooking from scratch, sewing, gardening if you can and making our home right for us to live well. A good quality hot water bottle is all part and parcel to a good night's sleep.

 

 Home is where the heart is