But I didn’t realise that most of my discomfort was coming from the wiring in my bras – that is, until I switched to non-wired design bras.  

Since my breasts are larger, most wired bras dig into my ribs or cause chafing. For those reasons, I’ve permanently switched to non-wired design bras. In this article, I’ve compiled my five favourite non-wired bras for large breasts so that you can make the switch too.

For Versatile Wear

Deliminera Women’s Lace Plus Size Wire-Free Bra

Available in sizes: 36B – 52E

After I had my baby and finished breastfeeding, my body was still adjusting, and I was left with even larger breasts than before. I wasn’t used to how my bust looked, and, more than anything, I wanted to transition back into flattering bras that weren’t nursing or maternity ones.

However, I couldn’t find anything that gave me the perfect balance of comfort and style. 

Then, I found this Deliminera Lace bra (from Amazon.co.uk), and it was exactly what I was looking for. I liked that it was simple but had some flair. I was able to wear this under my loose, lounging T-shirt and my tight dress for date night, and it fitted amazingly for both occasions. 

The bra’s fibres are stretchy enough that you can move around it, but it keeps your breasts secure. The fabric is breathable, which means I don’t get those unsightly sweat streaks across my bustline. 

This bra doesn’t come with padding, but it still gives my bust a full appearance. However, my favourite part about this bra is the wide back and shoulder straps. Some bras have awkward straps that are too small and press into the sides of your chest.

This bra’s straps are the perfect width, and they cover the entire chest area, including the sides of the breasts. So, you won’t have any unwanted bulges or spillage from any angle, which I love!

As a bonus, the subtle lace lining around the top makes this bra super chic.

For Workouts and Sports

SYROKAN Women’s High Impact Wireless Sports Bra

Available in sizes 32A – 42F

I originally purchased the SYROKAN Women’s High Impact sports bra (from Amazon.co.uk) because it was so easy to put on. I’d get so flustered trying to reach behind and fasten my clasps, but this bra has a front zipper instead that makes it super simple to fasten. 

The front zipper is simple to manoeuvre and blends well with the material, so it’s not directly rubbing against the skin. It’s made from sweat-resistant fabrics, so you won’t get a build-up of bacteria around your bust, even if you don’t have time to change after your workout.

I enjoy how sporty and stylish this bra looks. You can wear it underneath your workout gear or as a top by itself. It offers just enough padding and support to keep your breasts from bouncing when exercising, but it isn’t so tight that you can’t breathe.

The stretchy band around the bottom is thick enough to keep your bust elevated and won’t fold or curl when you move around.

The back of the bra comes up higher than traditional, everyday wear bras, so you’ll have a bit more support when you’re exercising or performing strenuous activities. It’s good for your posture too!

For Everyday Wear

Sumptuously Soft Non-Wired T-Shirt Bra

Available in sizes 30B – 42E

My first choice for an everyday wear bra, and one that you’ll want to purchase in several colours, is this Sumptuously Soft Non-Wired T-Shirt bra. It’s available from Marks & Spencers, and just like the name suggests, it fits smoothly over your chest and under any fabric. 

I wore this bra for a while when I was in my first trimester, and my breasts were constantly tender. I wanted something lightweight and supportive that didn’t aggravate my chest any more than it already was, and that wasn’t as constrictive. 

This bra has a bit more stretch than others, so it gave me the right amount of support and space for my breasts to grow. The adjustable straps are also pretty handy, so I could alter the bra as my body changed.

I’ve seen some reviewers say they purchased this bra for extra comfort during post-surgery care, and I can see why they did. The light padding offers the perfect amount of coverage without feeling bulky. 

Even after wearing this bra for long hours, I never need to take it off to feel ‘free’ since it’s so lightweight and soft on my skin. 

For an added touch of femininity, the little bow in the middle keeps it looking delicate and classy, so I feel great whenever I wear it too.

For a Natural Effect

Non-Wired Push-Up Bralette

Available in sizes 30B – 40DD

The Non-Wired Push-Up Bralette from Marks & Spencers is ultra-sleek and incredibly practical. The plunging neckline helps create a slimming illusion, so the focus isn’t entirely on your bust.

This bra comes with some light padding in the cups to smooth out the front of your chest, and the plunging neckline means it can easily be worn with any outfit. 

It has a wide seam around the bottom that pushes your breasts up, giving them a full and firm shape, with some natural cleavage. The flexible seam prevents your breasts from sagging, and is firm enough to prevent the material from rolling or folding over. 

The stitching doesn’t dig into your ribcage or constrict you in the same way a wire would, but instead fits effortlessly against your skin and forms around the natural shape of your chest.

The thick strap is great for lifting your bust and providing much-needed support to your back and shoulders. 

For Stylish Comfort

Total Support Wild Blooms Non-Wired Bra

Available in sizes 34C – 44H

Have you ever strolled through a department store’s lingerie section, and you see tonnes of cute designs and styles for smaller cup sizes, but the area for larger breasts only has plain and primary colours? 

I’ve struggled to find bras for large busts that are both visually flattering and practical. But then, I came across this Total Support Wild Blooms bra. I found it from Marks & Spencers and it’s got plenty of lace to give it a bit of sultry edge. It doesn’t have padding but it has just enough support to make it suitable for everyday wear. 

Some customers have commented on how soft the material is, and I completely agree. The cut of the bra is designed to smooth over the area underneath your bust and atop the nipple.

Then, it has some stunning lace on the top of the cup, but there’s still enough structure to prevent spilling out from the cups. I enjoy how this cut frames my breasts, so they don’t appear too pointy either.

The bra’s beautiful lace design goes up along the straps, so even if they get exposed accidentally, they at least look great too. The comfortable straps are thick enough to stay put on your shoulders without digging into them, and the back strap is wide enough to distribute support for your breasts evenly. 

Best Non-Wired Bras for Large Breasts and Big Busts: What To Look For

When shopping for bras to accommodate your large bust, it’s recommended that you choose ones that fit your lifestyle and activity level. For example, if you’re regularly hitting the gym, you’ll need to invest in a quality sports bra instead of always relying on your everyday wear bra. 

Not only are these kinds of bras not made for high-intensity physical activity, but they won’t provide the same level of support needed when working out. They may also not be made of suitable quick-drying materials and can combat excessive sweat build-up. 

Therefore, it’s probably best to invest in a few bras for all of your activities, so you’re comfortable at all times.

Source: Cleveland Clinic

How Should a Non-Wired Bra Fit?

Along with choosing a bra that fits your lifestyle and activities, you need to be sure you’re purchasing bras that fit you properly. 

Non-wired bras should fit smoothly and seamlessly across your bust. They should offer your breasts comfortable lift and coverage, and they shouldn’t move, slide, or poke you. Non-wired bras should also have a firm band that helps the bra keep its beautiful shape so your breasts are adequately supported.

Purchasing a non-wired design bra that doesn’t offer enough support can pose serious health risks to women, such as neck pain, back pain, and muscle and joint pain. 

You can always tell if you’re wearing the wrong bra based on a few key indicators. These include:

• If you have redness and chafing along the bustline
• If your back straps ride up when you’re moving around or dig into your back
• If your shoulder straps slide down or dig into your shoulders
• If you’re spilling out of your cups
• If your nipples are tender or irritated when wearing the bra

Source: Women’s Health Magazine, Huffington Post, WebMD

Does Your Bra Size Change from Wired to Non-Wired?

Your bra size doesn’t change from wired to non-wired. However, if you opt for a more elastic bra, it may have sizes ranging from XS-XL instead of measuring in centimetres around your back. 

More elastic bras can usually fit a broader range of busts since the fabric is stretchier and more flexible. 

Keep in mind that, even though you may be without the wire, that doesn’t mean a non-wired bra will always fit you perfectly. You’ll still need to find the right cup size, coverage, and support for your breasts, and this will vary depending on your needs and lifestyle. 

When I buy non-wired bras, I always look for ones with less or thinner padding, simply because my breasts are already big and I don’t need too much extra padding to make them look bigger.

I prefer just enough padding to smooth over my nipples underneath my clothing. This also means that sometimes I may need to go down to my ‘sister size’ in bras, depending on the retailer.

Source: New York Times, Refinery29, Self

Final Thoughts

Women with larger breasts often experience more discomfort due to the size of their busts, so choosing something that provides enough support can be tremendously helpful. 

I hope you found this article helpful, and as always, be sure to try on a bra before purchasing!

Doing your own acrylics will take a bit of practice, but with the cost of these at-home kits, you’ll have plenty of chances to perfect your technique. I’ve found a few different options for you to choose from, no matter your budget, all available on Amazon.co.uk.

1. For a Professional Finish

The EDGE Acrylic Liquid and Powder Training Kit

The Edge Nails is a nail care brand based in the UK that supplies all kinds of wholesale stores and salons with professional-grade nail care kits and treatments. They offer everything from acrylic powders and nail buffers to art kits and professional nail tools.

This acrylic kit is designed for those in training, which means it contains everything a nail technician needs to complete a full set of acrylic nails, such as:

• Primers
• Lint-free pads
• Assorted tips
• Acrylic nail powder

Although this is a little more expensive than the kits below, the quality of the professional brand is worth it if you’re serious about getting the best results at home. 

A few reviewers mentioned the strong smell of the acrylic liquid, which is to be expected. So, remember to always do your nails in a well-ventilated room. 

Another point of concern was the lack of detailed step instructions. This is likely because those in training don’t need the same level of guidance as beginners. Luckily, there are plenty of videos available online to help you get the hang of it. 

Check out this video that offers a detailed explanation of how to build acrylic extensions on nail forms:

Source: YouTube: Kiara Sky Nails

2. For Easy Application

Teenitor Clear Acrylic Long Coffin Full Cover Press on Nails

Almost every acrylic nail kit comes with nail forms and tips, but few come with full press-on nails that cover from your cuticle and beyond the tip of your finger. This is due to how acrylic is applied, connecting the tip with the natural nail. 

In most cases, you don’t need your natural nail to be covered, so extra material is not required. 

However, some people may find it easier to apply a full press-on nail than glue the tip or create an extension with the nail forms. 

This kit contains the press on nails, nail glue, clippers, and files. However, it does not include acrylic powder because, as mentioned, those kits don’t typically come with press-on nails. So, the major downside to this option is that you’ll need to purchase the acrylic powder separately. 

Still, these full-cover nails make shaping so much easier, and with more than 600 pieces, they should last a long period of time. 

The best part is that they can be used with everything from regular nail polish to acrylic if you want them to last longer. Once applied, you’ll apply the acrylic in the same way you would on your natural nail.

Watch this video below for a visual on how to apply acrylic to press on nails:

Source: YouTube: KeishaShonta

3. For Beginners

Bonamour Acrylic Nails Kit Full Set for Beginners

One of the biggest issues beginners face is how and where to practice. It would be wasteful to do your own nails only to remove and repeat the next day. 

That’s why this kit is perfect for beginners. Not only does it include a wide choice of powders, with more than 12 colours, but it also includes a practice finger onto which you can apply and perfect your skills. 

This is perfect for training your non-dominant hand. Instead of getting product all over your skin, you can use the plastic finger to improve your dexterity so that when the time comes, your dominant hand will look just as polished as your non-dominant hand.

Unfortunately, one of the top reviews of this nail product is a customer who had a bad reaction to the materials. This is not uncommon with acrylics, so testing a small amount before committing to a complete set is advised. 

Once you look past this, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Though most suggest it can be challenging to get started, the vast majority of buyers praise its quality and the selection of materials in the kit.

Better still, it’s very affordable and should give your numerous nail sets at a fraction of the cost of a salon.

4. For Short Nails:

Lavender Violets Acrylic Dip Powder Starter Kit

One of the primary reasons people opt for acrylics is that they’re easy to extend. If you bite your nails or they’re particularly weak, it’s nice to be able to add length and strength with a set of acrylics. 

But for those who don’t need the length, dip powder is a far more accessible kit for beginners. 

Rather than dipping a brush into the powder and moulding the acrylic to fit the nail, dipping just involves a few key steps, most of which are similar to applying regular nail polish. 

The key difference is that you’ll dip each nail into the acrylic powder to coat. 

This starter kit has eight colours and comes with a base, activator, and topcoat, plus a brush saver. However, it does not come with cuticle oil or a primer, which will help to keep your nails healthy and ensure the acrylic application lasts as long as possible.

Luckily, this set provides larger-sized powder tubs, making it inexpensive and long-lasting.

Although the process for this type of acrylic is easier than the above, the kit also comes with a handy guide that includes pictures.

If you’re new to dip powders, check out this video for a detailed visual on how to apply it at home:

Source: YouTube: Laurart

5. For Your Next Holiday

Saviland Acrylic Powder and Liquid Set

Many starter kits only come with a few neutral colours. These typically include clear, white, and pink and rarely offer anything too exciting. 

This kit, on the other hand, allows you to create your own colour palette. In addition to the three powder containers (for you to mix your own colours), it also includes 100 nail forms and a detailed instruction manual.

Using the 24 pastel nail chalks, you can mix and match to create something unique and lively. Use more for something bold, or play around to find your perfect subtle colour. 

A couple of reviews raved about the size of the acrylic tub, which is pretty big. That means it should last a lot longer than some other kits. 

Another comment suggested the colours were too bright, but that’s a matter of preference. It’s better to start with more vivid colours and have the opportunity to tone them down when needed. Just remember to play around with the colours a little until you find the hue that works for you. 

Finally, read the guide thoroughly, as you will need to ensure the proper ratio of chalk to acrylic powder to get the right finish.

Do At Home Acrylic Nail Kits Work?

At home acrylic nail kits work when they have the right materials and when used correctly. They should have a cuticle pusher, buffing block, primer, acrylic powder, brushes, acrylic liquid, and tips or nail forms. The biggest challenge with such kits is that most people are not trained to use them.

In certain situations, such as when you need a haircut, it’s best to go to a professional. They’re trained to give you precisely what you want and in a timely manner too.

Of course, doing your own nails is slightly different, and it can save you a lot of money in the long run. It’s just important to manage your expectations. In almost all of the kits listed above, many of the reviews commented on how tricky acrylic applications can be, which means they likely won’t be perfect the first few times.

Then there’s the issue of working on yourself. If you’re right-handed, chances are your left hand will be neat and tidy. But then, when you try to work on that dominant hand, you’ll probably struggle to keep things in line. 

For the best results, try watching a few videos and practising with your new kit. You might find it easy, or you may use that whole kit just getting the hang of everything. Either way, the cost of an at-home kit is a fraction of the cost of a salon trip.

Where you might spend upwards of £50 having your nails removed and replaced, many of these kits cost less than £50, and they last for multiple applications. 

If you’re not willing to spend the time practising, though, you might be better off visiting the nail salon.

Can You Do Acrylic Nails at Home Without a Kit?

You can do acrylic nails at home without a kit, provided you buy all the necessary supplies. These can be found online or in beauty supply stores. However, buying a kit will ensure you have everything you need in one package, preventing the need for multiple shopping trips. 

To apply acrylic nails, there are a few critical pieces of equipment you need. These include but are not limited to:

• Manicure brushes
• Cuticle pusher and nail oil
• Nail file and buffing block
• Nail dehydrator and primer (base coat)
• Dappen dish
• Acrylic nail brush
• Acrylic liquid and powder
• Topcoat 
• Nail tips or forms
• Nail glue 

As a beginner, buying a kit will make sure you have everything you need. However, as you do your nails more and more, you’ll likely find that you need to top up on certain manicure tools and supplies sooner than others. 

For example, the dappen dish will last years if you’re careful, but if you do your nails often, you could need new powder and files within a couple of months.

Final Thoughts

At home acrylic nail kits have come a long way, and with the numerous videos available online, you should have no trouble learning how to do your own nails. 

I hope you found this article helpful and that you use it to find the right kit for you.

Acrylic nails can cost anywhere from £25 to £125 depending on the style, length, design, and nail technician. A full set of painted acrylic nails may cost as little as £30, but if you want to add length and a design, expect to pay a lot more. Some technicians charge as much as £5 per nail for nail art.

This article will cover everything you need to know about getting acrylic nails in the UK, including costs, availability, at-home options, and the cost of removing acrylic nails. We’ll also go over some money-saving tips, so keep reading!

The Cost of Acrylic Nails in the UK

It won’t come as a surprise to hear that it will likely cost a lot more for a set of acrylic nails in London than it will in Manchester. Prices in the capital are always higher, so expect to pay for the luxury. 

However, when you move away from London, acrylic nails become similarly priced throughout the country, depending on what you’re looking for.

Below is a table with the prices for four different nail salons across the UK: 

Sources: USA Nails, Bella Spa, Trieu Nails, Cuteicle

As you can see, the cost for a complete set of regular acrylic nails is more in London and Edinburgh when compared to York and Manchester. And chances are, you’ll be able to find cheaper options if you check out social media in those cities. 

The prices all go up when you start adding length, and designs can run from £10 to £50. Some salons only offer simple ombre effects or add glitter, whereas others have more elaborate nail art options. 

Some beauty salons will also price per design, meaning they could charge £5 per nail for glitter as well as £5 per nail for rhinestones.

Acrylic Nails in Salons vs DIY Home Kits

Using the London spa from the table above, we can see that the cost of a full set of long acrylic nails is between £50 and £60. The extra money comes in depending on whether or not you use a tip for the extensions or if you ask them to sculpt the nail (the latter being more expensive).

At the same spa, a simple manicure costs as little as £25, which is half the cost of a set of acrylics. 

Compare both of those to this Pheonixy ​​Acrylic Nail Kit from Amazon.co.uk, which costs under £25, and you could save yourself a lot of money in going the DIY route. There are 42 different glitter powders, and it also comes with nail clippers, buffers, nail forms, and 3D acrylic moulds.

With this kit, you could do your own nails over and over without spending any extra money. Plus, there are so many 3D moulds available, you could use a complete set just for practice.

Seeing the costs associated with acrylics nails and the fact that they typically only last two to three weeks, you might be tempted to start doing your own nails. 

Tip: One of the biggest roadblocks will be working on your dominant hand. Right-handed people will likely struggle to use their left hand safely and accurately, and vice versa.

In the end, much like cutting your own hair, if you’re not a professional, it’s not the best idea to jump right into doing your own nails with acrylic. DIY applications run the risk of getting acrylic on your skin, leading to redness and swelling. Plus, poor application and removal can lead to serious damage to your nails.

So, if you want to go down the at-home path, be sure to practice on the moulds before you attempt to apply anything to your own nails.

Press On Acrylics – Costs and Considerations

Another even cheaper option to salon acrylics and at-home kits are press-on acrylic nails. 

Truthfully, press-on nails don’t have the best reputation, and I’m sure we’ve all had our fair share of fails where a nail popped off after just a couple of hours. But the trick is to find a decent set that includes more than just weak nail glue. 

It’s also worth spending a little more to get extra nails so you can easily replace any that do happen to come off. 

This Kalolary 192PCS Gradient Color Acrylic Press on Nails comes in 12 sizes for each of the eight colours, along with durable jelly glue that adheres better than your average nail glue. At just over £10, you get a lot of uses out of this one set. 

To ensure press on nails last as long as possible, follow these guidelines:

• Don’t use too big, or too small press-on nails or they won’t hold.
• Prepare your nails like they would at the nail salon, by cleaning, buffing, and pushing the cuticles back.
• Use rubbing alcohol to ensure the nails are as clean as possible.
• Apply the glue to the nail and the press-on for better coverage.
• After application, try not to do too much and avoid getting them wet for at least two hours.
• Choose shorter nails that are less likely to catch and pop off.

Source: ClutchNails

The Cost of Styled Acrylic Nails

Usually, when you look at the cost for a set of acrylics, the price is for the very basic nail. In some cases, that might not even include the extended tip.

The reason you’re paying more is that it takes more materials and far more effort to add extensions and then style the nails, especially when compared to a simple manicure with a couple of coats of polish.

In the table above, you can see that adding ombre, for example, increased the price for each by a minimum of £5. 

The Nails & Brows bar in Leeds, for example, charges £28 for a full set of acrylic nails with colour, and that goes up to £32 if you want ombre. From there, you’ll need to add £5 for a French tip or £2 per nail for nail art (Source: The Nails & Brows bar).

As you can see, the costs can start to rack up.

How to Save Money on Acrylic Nails in the UK

If you choose to stick with the salon for your natural nails, you have to expect to pay for the nail service. In this case, it will likely cost upwards of £40 per visit, going as high as £150 if you have them removed, reshaped, and redone with nail art and embellishments. 

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to save a bit of money.

Use Infills To Make the Nails Last Longer

After a few weeks, even if you’re lucky enough to have perfect nails that are unchipped and durable, you still need to consider the natural growth of your actual nails. 

This won’t be as prominent with lighter colours, but if you have bright red or pink nails, the nail bed will start to show.

Instead of having your natural nails removed and redone completely, try adding infills instead. 

Infills are, as they sound: they fill in the area near the cuticle showing the new growth. 

At The Nails & Brows bar in Leeds, it would cost over £50 to have the acrylics removed and redone. Infills, on the other hand, only cost £20. Not only that, they will extend the life of your acrylic nails to as long as three months.

Opt for Shorter Nails

Although some salons will charge a flat fee for acrylics, including the cost of extending your nails, some will not. You’ll need to check your local salon to see how they price their nails and then make your decision based on that. 

Adding extensions will make the price creep up in a lot of places. 

But that’s not the only reason you should go for shorter nails. Long nails are prone to breakage, and they’re so easy to crack. Also, daily life, no matter what you do, will put stress on your nails, and that’s why they don’t typically last more than a few weeks. 

So, if you choose slightly shorter nails and then be careful with how you use your hands, you should be able to extend their life and get more wear out of them. So maybe instead of spending £50 every few weeks, you could get away with it every other month instead. 

That could extend even further if you combine shorter nails with infills!

Remove Acrylic Nails at Home

Salons can charge anywhere from £10 to £50 to remove your nails. So, why not save that and remove them yourself?

To remove acrylic nails at home, follow these steps:

1. Clip the top of the nail as close to your own nail as possible.
2. Use a buffer over the surface of your nail, so the acetone has something to cling to.
3. Soak your nails in 100% pure acetone for five minutes.
4. Use a cuticle pusher to gently nudge from the bottom of your nail, lifting the acrylic up.
5. If the acrylic doesn’t come off, soak them again.
6. Buff off any excess acrylic leftover.

Once the nails are off, finish with this Cuccio Naturale Revitalising Cuticle Oil. It’s excellent for dry skin and is full of antioxidants, and vitamin E. Massage it over your nails and cuticles and then let them breathe for a few days (Source: Cosmopolitan).

Final Thoughts

Acrylic will always be kind of expensive, and the truth is, if you see them for less than £25, there might be something wrong with the salon! Or they might be new, and trying to drum up new business. Always do your research!

You get what you pay for, after all. Still, I hope this article helps you understand the costs of acrylics and a few ways to save, too!

My grandma always put her housecoat on in the morning if she ever had to talk to the postman, go out to get her milk bottles (yes, she still had them delivered) or anything else that she did before getting fully dressed for the day – and then she used to wear it as an extra layer, too!

Athough they seemed to be more common a couple of decades ago, housecoats are clothing items that are made especially to keep the elderly warm, and they can be worn over any clothing, day or night. Housecoats are still really useful, make an excellent gift, and are usually much appreciated. It’s usually women who wear them.

If you’re unsure of where to find a housecoat for yourself or an elderly relative, I’ve put together the best shops to buy them from in the UK (online, because they’re scarce on the high street) and also answered some commonly asked questions too!

The Able Label 

The Able Label is a relatively unknown shop as they’re a new clothing retailer, but I really love them as they make clothes specifically for those with dressing difficulties.

Their clothing often has adapted beautiful designs and hidden extras. The founder began the brand when she noticed how her grandmother with Parkinson’s struggled to dress herself. She then made it her mission to create clothes that are stylish and the elderly love to wear, whilst also promoting independence and self-confidence.

Something that an older person may like about this shop is that they still offer catalogues! It can be difficult for the elderly to shop online or go all the way to a specialist shop, so if they want to choose a housecoat for themselves then this may be a great option. I used to sit with my grandma and go through catalogues for fun, even if we didn’t buy anything!

I like this particular housecoat because it’s made from a soft fleece delicate fabric that will keep the wearer warm and comfortable. It’s long sleeved, has hidden pockets for keeping any belongings close to hand and has embroidered appliqué across the chest and cuffs and pockets.

 It’s also great for those who have poor mobility in their hands and fingers as it’s fastened by strips of velcro down the front, but it has stylish buttons for show too. It’s around 45” (114cm) long so will cover the majority of the body for extra warmth, it also comes in 4 sizes from S-XL and is machine washable at 40°, making it easy to throw in with the rest of your clothes. Plus, it comes in blue too!

Pros:

• Clothes are made specifically for those with dressing difficulties
• Soft fleece fabric
• Stylish appliqué across the chest, cuffs and pockets
• Velcro fastening
• Machine washable at 40°
• 4 size options
• 45” long – knee length (or thereabouts) 
• “Buy and Try” policy – free returns if it’s not suitable

Cons:

• Only comes in the two colour options shown above, which may not be to everyone’s taste
• Can’t be tumble dried

SilkandMore (Via Etsy)

This etsy store, called SilkandMore, is run by a woman who makes handmade bridesmaid’s robes, kaftans, hospital gowns and even has a whole section dedicated to elderly apparel, which includes housecoats and pajamas.

She has really taken into account all the needs of an elderly person, from limited movement to actually making the wearer feel good in the handcrafted garment, something that a lot of elderly clothing doesn’t do. Another thing that I love about her store is that she makes wheelchair-friendly housecoats that provide extra coverage in the lap area, so that nothing is revealed when sitting down. 

Another great thing about this store is how inclusive the sizing is, the housecoats don’t just come in standard sizes, they come in S-3XL and also have a different height option for each size, for example you can get a medium for 5-5”3, or a medium for 5”8 and above!

The housecoats come in a wide range of colours and styles, all of which are easy to get on and off, you can choose between a zip front, or buttons that don’t actually need to be undone in order to put on.

They’re all made from extremely soft cotton that’s light-weight and drapes nicely in order to provide adequate coverage. There is also an option to provide extra coverage for women who have had surgeries such as mastectomies, at an additional charge.

Each one also has deep pockets, which are perfect for those who have difficulties walking and use a cane, as they allow you to keep things that you need close to hand. 

This is someone who has put a lot of thought into their housecoats and it’s always nice to give business to independent clothes makers too.

Pros:

• Wheelchair friendly housecoats
• Inclusive sizing
• Range of colours and styles
• Can choose between buttons or zip-front
• Made from soft cotton
• Option for extra coverage for those who have had surgeries
• Pockets
• Custom alterations are available, just contact the seller

Cons:

• Shipping time varies, but this can be expected with handmade to order items, just contact the seller to find out how long dispatch takes

Amazon (In Particular Slenderella)

Amazon has a great range of housecoats for the elderly, suitable for all budgets and styles. In particular, Slenderella is a high-quality seller as they’re a long established, family-run manufacturer based in Derbyshire.

This waffle fleece housecoat is soft and cosy, with long wide sleeves and is surprisingly lightweight, so it won’t make it difficult for an elderly person to get around. At 52” (132cm) long it hangs just above the ankles so it’ll keep your whole body warm.

It is fastened with 6 large buttons that are easy to use due to their size, so will still be suitable for those with arthritis or low mobility. It also has 2 concealed deep pockets and a  collar, which makes it more stylish. It also comes in 5 different colour options and the sizes range from a UK 10-12 (small), up to a UK 28-30 (XXXL). It’s machine washable at 40° too!

Pros:

• Made from super soft and warm waffle fleece
• Ankle length at 52”
• 6 large, easy to use buttons
• Pockets
• Machine washable
• Range of sizes from S-XXXL
• 5 colour options
• Reviewers have praised how well this housecoat keeps them warm!

Cons:

• Some reviewers have commented that the sizing runs small and have advised other buyers to size up

What’s The Difference Between A Housecoat And A Dressing Gown?

A housecoat is a garment designed to be worn around the house and are often very useful for the elderly who feel the cold as they keep them warm, but look stylish enough to be worn during the day.

Housecoats originated in the 1930s and were marketed towards housewives as they would protect their clothing when they were doing day-to-day chores and once they were done, they could take it off and their clothing would still be clean. Today, they’re more about keeping the wearer warm. 

Housecoats, bathrobes and dressing gowns are often confused with one another, but there are some clear differences to distinguish between them.

• Although they have a somewhat similar style, bathrobes are designed to be absorbent as they are worn as soon as you get out of the bath or shower.
  
• Dressing gowns are generally constructed of thinner material and are made to cover your nightwear when you get out of bed.
  
• However, housecoats are worn in place of a jumper or cardigan and are often better at keeping the wearer warm as they are much longer. They can also be worn throughout the day, over both daywear and nightwear.

What’s The Ideal Room Temperature For The Elderly?

As we age, we find it harder to stay warm due to decreased circulation and the thinning of the fat layer under our skin that helps to keep us warm. This means that colder temperatures can often be extremely dangerous to the elderly as they increase the likelihood and severity of flu and respiratory problems, as well as putting them at greater risks of heart attacks and strokes.

It’s also important to note that conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia mean that elderly people may not even realise that their body temperature has dropped! This means that it’s extremely important to ensure that our elderly relatives are staying warm throughout the year, but especially during the winter months. 

According to AgeUK, the ideal room temperature for the elderly is 21°C (70°F)  in the living room and a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in the bedroom.

It’s also been said that bathrooms should be kept at around 24°C (75°F), slightly warmer due to the fact that we take our clothes off to bathe and are susceptible to being cold afterwards. Although extra layers, such as a housecoat, can help to keep the elderly warm, there’s only so much they can do if the room temperature is cold. 

After reading this article, I hope that you’ve found all the information that you’re looking for! If you’re concerned about the health of an elderly relative, contact your GP, or go to a charity such as AgeUK for advice.

Here, I’ll suggest the best nursing dresses for different occasions from weddings to casual summer dresses. I struggled to find suitable dresses, especially ones that washed well and kept their shape.

I’ve also given some tips on what to wear other than dresses when it comes to nursing.

Best Formal Dress for Nursing

V-Neck Dress by Purpless Maternity

This ruched, V neck dress by Purpless Maternity has ¾ length sleeves and ruching to the side, which gives it a really elegant look.

The dress itself is made from 95% viscose and 5% elastane so it’s really comfortable and will flatter your figure as well as being easy to wash if you leak.

The neckline isn’t hemmed, so it allows you to pull it to the side and nurse with ease, no matter where you are.

The dress comes in 6 different colours, so there will be one for whatever occasion you decide to wear it. It can also be worn with leggings or jeans as a long top if you prefer!

Pros:

• Easy to nurse in
• Comfortable material that’s flattering on any figure
• Easy to wash (machine washable)
• Easy to iron
• 6 colours
• Allows for room for growing bump if you purchase before giving birth

Cons:

• Colour is darker than the one shown
• Creases easily

Best Nursing-Friendly Dress for a Wedding in the UK

Happy Mama Nursing Maxi Dress

If you want a bargain as well as a nursing-friendly dress to wear to a wedding, then this dress by HAPPY MAMA is a stylish maxi dress you should consider.

I particularly like that it’s finished with a tie around the waist to cinch you in and flatter your body shape.

It has short sleeves, hangs well at the front and comes in 30 different styles, from florals, to stripes, to plain colours so it definitely looks formal enough for a wedding.

Depending on the style, it’s either made from 95% Viscose and 5% Elastane, or 100% Polyester meaning that it’s quick-drying if you were to leak during the day.

These fabrics are also easy to wash as you can just throw them in the washing machine.

The dress itself allows for ease of nursing with the top just pulling to the side, but it’s subtle about it – it doesn’t look like a nursing dress at all!

Pros:

• Subtle, ease of nursing design
• Waist tie
• Formal
• 30 different styles
• Machine washable
• Quick drying fabric
• Short sleeved
• Allows for room for growing bump
• Heavy stretch fabric

Cons:

• Those under 5”5 have said the dress is too long to be worn without heels, but the fabric is easy to hem

Best Breastfeeding Dress in the UK For A Special Occasion

Smallshow Nursing Dress

This nursing dress by Smallshow features a round neckline, ¾ length sleeves and 2 pockets.

It comes in 7 different styles and the sizes go all the way up to a size 22, which is a huge plus as it can be extremely difficult to find plus size nursing dresses or nursing dresses for those with larger chests. I was overweight after I had my second baby and was so happy to find this!

It’s made of really soft fabric so it’s comfortable, lightweight and falls nicely from the waist. It can be dressed up for a special occasion, or dressed down with a pair of leggings or tights.

It can even be worn after you’ve weaned your baby as it doesn’t look like a nursing clothing at all.

It’s easy to nurse – the dress has a flap in the upper part of the dress, which can be lifted up to expose your breast and feed your baby easily and discreetly.

With its high neckline, it’s modest and will ensure that you feel covered. It’s machine washable and can be put in the tumble dryer on a low heat too to get rid of any milk or sick stains.

Pros:

• Comfortable and modest
• Flap that lifts up for easy and discreet nursing
• Size range from 8 – 22
• Lightweight
• Machine washable
• Can be put in the tumble dryer
• Can be ironed
• 7 colour options
• Pockets

Cons:

• The length can differ on different heights, for some it is above the knee, others it is below

Best Nursing Maxi Dress in the UK

OUGES Nursing / Breastfeeding Maxi Dress

This maxi dress by OUGES comes in a variety of different colours and styles, with all different sleeve lengths.

It’s made from 94% Polyester and 6% Elastane which means that it’s a comfortable and stretchy fabric that won’t cling to you in the wrong places.

It has a V neck and waist tie as well as a hidden zipper on the side and it even has pockets! It gives off a really classy look that can be worn to the beach, on a date night or just around the house.

The sizes go up to 3XL – which is the equivalent to a UK 22-24.

Although this dress isn’t explicitly a nursing/maternity dress, with the belted wrap in the chest area of the dress it makes it really easy to nurse your baby without having to take anything off.

The material will stretch at the neckline to pull it aside and expose your breast, then once you’re finished feeding your baby it springs right back into shape.

Pros:

• Stretchy material that snaps back into place and makes nursing easy
• Up to 3XL (UK 22-24)
• Machine washable on a cold wash
• Pockets
• V neck and waist tie gives a classy look
• Zipper on the side

Cons:

• Customers who wear smaller sizes (UK 6-8) have said that size S is too large for them
• Not long enough for taller women (5”10+)

Best Nursing Summer Dress

Mamalicious Maternity Nursing Dress
(Check Price at ASOS)

You no longer have to choose between comfort and style with this maternity nursing dress by Mamalicious.

It comes in a gorgeous black and white abstract print with a point collar, tie waist and ruffle skirt that looks super fashionable as well as being comfortable.

You can dress it up with a pair of heels or boots, or dress it down with a pair of trainers.

It’s a button-down shirt dress, which means that when it comes to nursing you can quickly undo a few buttons to breastfeed without having to struggle taking things off.

The dress itself is made from lightweight viscose which will keep you cool during the warmer months, drapes well, is breathable and highly absorbent too – so it’ll soak up any milk leaks and the dark colour pattern will hide it well too so there’s no need to feel self conscious!

Pros:

• Both stylish and comfortable
• Button down which makes it easy to nurse baby
• Made from lightweight viscose – great for summer
• Absorbent and darker colour pattern means leaks will be hidden well
• Machine washable

Cons:

• Length can be awkward on petite women (5”2 and below)

Tips On How To Dress When Breastfeeding

Before becoming a mother, the ease of exposing your breasts may not be something you’ve thought about when buying pieces for your maternity wardrobe.

When you’re taking care of a baby, the need to nurse can arise at any time so it’s important to ensure that your clothes are both comfortable and convenient.

Aside from the dresses above, there are a few more things to consider that will make your life a whole lot easier when it comes to breastfeeding your baby:

Nursing Bras

Not many new mums realize the importance of a nursing bra. Pulling up a regular bra to expose your breast can put unnecessary pressure on your breast that can lead to clogged milk ducts (source: Clothing and Textile Research Journal).

Nursing bras are a lot easier to latch and unlatch at the cups and are made of absorbent fabric which is great, as although nursing pads can help, they’re not 100% effective and milk is likely to leak through to your bra.

Vest Tops

Vest tops that are made from stretchy materials make the perfect nursing top, as you can just pull them down to nurse.

They can be worn under things that aren’t made for nursing, such as jumpers, but keep you covered and comfortable.

Sleeping Nursing Bras

Although you may not usually wear a bra to bed, when you’re nursing it can be a good idea to wear one to keep your breast pads in place, as you’re most likely to leak during the night due to the higher levels of prolactin (source: NHS).

The difference between normal nursing bras and sleeping ones is that the ones you wear to bed don’t have the latch at the front – you can just pull them down to save fiddling around in the dark.

Nursing Sleepwear

As well as a nursing bra, you may want to consider nursing sleepwear that is specially made for nursing, such as a nightgown. This will help you to nurse as easily as possible and get back to sleep once you’re done.

Button down shirts/dresses

f you don’t want to wear clothes that are made for nursing, then opting for dresses or shirts that have buttons can be a good idea as you just undo a few buttons and you’re ready to go.

A wrap dress or top would work well too.

Tip: Add a scarf! One of my favourite tips from nursing mothers is to add a scarf to your outfit.

Scarves can give you more privacy when nursing if you’re not comfortable doing it out in the open, and it saves you carrying a modesty blanket with you everywhere.

There are also a few things that you probably shouldn’t wear when you’re nursing:

• Jumpsuits/Playsuits
• Regular, underwired bras
• Extremely tight tops
• Multiple layers

After reading this article, I hope you’ve found all the information that you were looking for.

Good luck on your nursing journey – you’ve got this!

A few months ago I wanted to a buy high-quality dressing gown as an excellent gift for my partner that would both be luxurious and last a long time.

Here’s the shortlist I made at the time, including the one I eventually bought – and he LOVES it.

I’ve gone through the benefits of each of their materials and what seasons they’re suitable for, plus some commonly asked questions.

Best Men’s Dressing Gown in the UK

Silk-Lined Lambswool Men’s Dressing Gown
(Available at Bonsoir of London)

This silk-lined men’s dressing gown by Bonsoir London is the one I eventually bought. It’s at the higher end of the market because it’s tailored to order, is very high quality, and made in England.

I got the Royal Blue robe, as shown below:

The gown is made from 100% Yorkshire lambswool – which definitely keeps you warm on those cold mornings before the heating has kicked in.

It’s lined with 100% silk to ensure it’s comfortable and soft on the skin, with inside ties as well as a wide tie belt so you can be sure it’s fully closed. The stitching is very high quality, as are the materials.

My partner says he’ll never go back to unlined dressing gowns (his previous one was wool only, and was a bit scratchy). It also has a collar and sleeve cuffs, for an elegant look,  along with 3 deep pockets.

He is 6ft 1, and the Large sized one fits him perfectly:

One of my favourite things about this particular dressing gown is that you can get it monogrammed upon ordering, making it a lovely gift. It also comes in an attractive presentation box.

Bonsoir almost always sell out of this every winter month (particularly near Christmas) because they need 2-3 weeks to tailor it to order, so if you know you’re in the market for a high-end, amazing quality men’s dressing gown, check that they’re in stock first (or order early).

There are also others for sale via Bonsoir, of course – I almost got a cotton one which I talk about below – but since I was so pleased with this wool one, I can highly recommend it.

 Pros:

• Very high quality
• Wool with silk lining
• Inside ties
• 3 pockets
• Elegant look
• Monogramming available
• Tailored to order
• Size range from S – XXL

Cons:

• No variation in length – 130cm only, though you could ask before tailoring
• Dry clean only – this has been around £15 when we’ve had it done

Best UK Men’s Cotton Dressing Gown

Men’s Cotton Dressing Gown Range
(Available at Bonsoir of London)

When I eventually chose a gown from Bonsoir, it was a close choice between the wool one (listed first in this article) and these, their cotton ones – which are more keenly priced if you don’t want to splash out on wool.

The gown above is their striped brushed cotton, though Bonsoir’s range of cotton dressing gowns come in a few different colour variations, including stripes, checks or plain.

Cotton is a light and breathable fabric which means it’s great all year round. If your house is naturally well-insulated or warm, this might be a better option.

During warmer mornings it wicks moisture away from the skin, so you won’t get sweaty and it also incredibly soft, and will remain so throughout its lifetime.

These gowns are made from organic cotton, which is of higher quality as well as being more sustainable. They feature toweling on the inside for extra comfort and absorbency.

It looks smart with a shawl collar, tie belt and two pockets, so it’s great for lounging around in on a lazy Sunday morning.

Please note that it’s advised to size up when purchasing this product, as when washed the waffle weave relaxes which can lead to shrinkage.

Pros:

• Organic cotton
• Woven with towelling on the inside
• Smart looking
• Sizes S – XXL
• Choice of colours
• Machine washable

Cons:

• Waffle weave prone to shrinkage

Best Men’s Silk Dressing Gown in the UK

Hand-Made Men’s Silk Robe Collection
(Available at Derek Rose)

If you want to go all-in on luxury, then a silk robe is a must. There are other good reasons to go 100% silk too, including those with sensitive skin.

Derek Rose has a gorgeous selection of men’s dressing gowns made from 100% silk that are handmade in their Cheshire workshop and produced in limited quantities. 

It’s extremely comfortable as silk is breathable and gentle on the skin, so it won’t irritate you at all – even if you’ve got sensitive skin.

You may think that silk is a fragile fabric, but it’s actually very long-lasting. This beautiful robe will be hanging on your bathroom door (or wherever you keep it) for years to come.

Despite silk being known for its delicate appearance, Derek Rose have managed to keep their dressing gowns looking masculine.

With its simplistic design, including a shawl collar, breast and side pockets and thick tie belt, this gown strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style.

It’s especially convenient for those Summer mornings and evenings when you need something to cover up, but don’t want to be too hot. Naturally, something this luxurious also makes a perfect gift.

Pros:

• Simplistic design
• Soft and comfortable
• Long lasting
• Handmade
• 100% pure silk
• Breathable
• Different colour options
• S – XXL
• Can purchase matching pyjamas

Cons:

• Hand wash only

Best UK Men’s Smoking Jacket Style Dressing Gown

Revise Short Smoking Jacket Dressing Gown
(Available on Amazon)

Smoking jackets were intended to be worn by men after dinner, in the comfort of your own home, so it makes sense that there would be dressing gowns to mimic this style.

This smoking jacket style short dressing gown by Revise can be worn year-round as it’s made from an elegant velvet fabric that’s soft, breathable, and absorbent.

It comes in 3 colours, and is sewn with attention to detail to ensure that it lasts you for years.

It has 3 pockets, a shawl collar and a waist tie and contrasting coloured details to really amplify that classic look, you’ll have no problem entertaining friends whilst wearing this as it doesn’t look too ‘pyjama-y’.

This one would make a great Christmas or Birthday gift for a male family member!

Pros:

• 3 colours to choose from
• Classic look
• Can be worn year round
• Made to last
• Velvet fabric (80% Cotton, 20% Polyester)
• Sizes range from S – XXXXL

Cons:

• Only comes in a short length – but that’s the style

Best Hooded Men’s Dressing Gown in the UK

Jacquard Hooded Men’s Dressing Gown
(Available at Hugo Boss)

If you prefer a dressing gown with a hood to absorb moisture from damp hair (such as after showering) then this hooded dressing gown by Hugo Boss may be the one for you.

It’s made from a cotton blend with a terry towelling structure for greater absorbency and gives off a fashionable look with the ‘BOSS’ logo all over.

The cotton blend means it’ll work year round as it’s warm, yet breathable and is suitable to be worn straight after bathing due to the absorbency of the terry towelling.

It has a fabric belt to close the robe and is completed with 2 patched pockets, as well as a hood of course.

Pros:

• Can be worn after bathing
• Suitable year round
• Fashionable look
• Cotton blend with terry towelling
• Hood
• Machine washable
• Can be ironed on a low heat
• S – XXL

Cons:

• Only comes in one colour – navy blue

What Exactly Is A Dressing Gown In The UK?

This may sound like an odd question, but apparently, the term ‘dressing gown’ is particularly British. Other countries – the USA, for example – use the term ‘robe’, even though it’s not quite the same.

Whether you call it a housecoat, morning gown or dressing gown – it all means the same thing.

A dressing gown is an open-fronted gown that is tied by a fabric belt and worn over nightwear, before you dress for the day or after you undress for the night.

Dressing gowns can also be worn for warmth when lounging around at home, worn over pyjamas or over clothes.

Traditionally, dressing gowns are different to bathrobes as they did not contain absorbent material, but nowadays the lines are a little more blurry.

Bathrobes are intended to be worn straight after bathing in lieu of a towel. Many dressing gowns now do offer the absorbency of a bathrobe, so they can be worn after showering or bathing too.

The use of a dressing gown all depends on its material – silk robes do not offer any absorbency and are more intended to be worn over nightclothes, whilst cotton ones with terry towelling are absorbent and can be worn after bathing, but also over nightclothes.

It all depends on what you’re looking for and how you intend to wear it.

Can You Tumble Dry A Dressing Gown?

There is no yes or no answer to this question, as whether or not you can tumble dry a dressing gown all depends on what material it is made from.

Many of the higher-quality dressing gowns I’ve recommended here are made from delicate materials.

Dressing gowns made from wool are dry clean only and should not be washed or tumble dried at home, whereas ones made from silk should be hand washed at a cool temperature and then left to air dry.

Dry cleaning a gown doesn’t need to be done often and is cheaper than you might think – usually about £10-15.

Most cotton dressing gowns can be tumble dried, but not all of them as it depends on the percentage of cotton used and what fabrics it is mixed with, if it’s not 100% cotton.

You should always avoid using any harsh chemicals, such as bleach, on a dressing gown as this can damage the fibres and leave your gown looking worn out.

If your dressing gown is suitable for machine washing, you should use a mild laundry detergent as regular ones can leave the fabric feeling rougher and stiff – which isn’t ideal.

You should also avoid using fabric softener as with regular use, it can affect the water absorbency of your gown.

If you’re unsure as to whether to tumble dry your dressing gown, it’s best to check the washing care label inside as each gown will differ in materials.

Finding the right dressing gown can be a challenge, but investing in the perfect one can make your mornings and evenings a whole lot more comfortable!

If you’re looking for a pre-workout, but feeling a bit overwhelmed with choices, I’ve put together the ones I originally shortlisted, explained their ingredients, and answered some questions.

Quality is important! So there’s also some info on which pre-workout supplements are banned in the UK, and why. You should always check ingredients, so I’ve broken some of them down to put them in context.

Best Pre-Workout Supplement in the UK

C4 Original Pre-Workout Powder
(Check Amazon’s Price)

C4’s Original Pre-Workout powder is my go-to pre-workout – it’s a decent price, does the job, and is consistent, which I regard as very important.

C4 comes in a variety of flavours, from Pink Lemonade to Icy Blue Razz. I prefer the Raspberry.

This particular pre-workout has a positive reputation in both the bodybuilding and weightlifting communities due to being a general use supplement no matter your particular workout goals – it’s an all-rounder.

If you’ve never used a pre-workout before, it’s a good place to start.

The main active ingredients are Caffeine, Creatine, Arginine as AAKG and Beta-Alanine as well as vitamins B and C to support energy metabolism and collagen synthesis.

The Caffeine contained in this pre-workout is 150mg – which is the minimum effective dose, meaning that you can get that burst of energy to complete your workout but won’t be left on a caffeine high for the rest of the day or give you an energy crash after a few hours.

Another ingredient contained in this is N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine, which works to increase your focus and stabilise your mood during your workout.

This pre-workout is also formulated to improve endurance due to the combination of Creatine and Beta-Alanine.

C4’s Powder is easy to take, just mix one scoop with around 200ml of water, 20-30 minutes before training and you’re good to go. I use slightly more water to ensure I’m well hydrated before exercising.

Pros:

• Multiple flavours
• Great all rounder, can be used by anyone no matter their goals
• Effective ingredients
• Added vitamins and minerals
• Dissolves well
• Easy to use
• Comes with a scoop
• Vegan

Cons:

• Some may find the caffeine content too weak, in which case you could increase the dose slightly or use the Grenade, below.

Strongest Pre-Workout in the UK

Grenade 50 Calibre Blast
(Check Amazon’s Price)

If you need something stronger, this pre-workout by Grenade has a caffeine content of 100mg per 100ml which is certainly enough to give you an energy boost and smash any tiredness.

Full disclosure – this was too much caffeine for me. I liked it, had a great workout, but it took me ages to get to sleep that night.

Caffeine affects everyone differently so if you’re a low responder or like the kick, you’ll love this. If you don’t want ANY caffeine then there’s a caffeine-free recommendation below.

Along with Caffeine, this pre-workout contains Creatine and Beta-Alanine to improve your endurance as well as Citrulline Malate – a superior version of Arginine as it’s converted into Arginine when needed, better absorbed than Arginine and leads to more consistent levels of Arginine in the body.

Citrulline Malate may help to improve your power output, reduce fatigue and increase your endurance during exercise.

This pre-workout also contains MDS (Muscle Defence System) anti-catabolic support which is supposed to help avoid excess muscle breakdown during high-intensity workouts.

There are also claims that the ingredients can increase the levels of muscle-building hormones and increase blood flow to give you better muscle pumps but as I’m not using it regularly I couldn’t measure this.

There are 4 flavours to choose from and each box has 50 servings. To take this pre-workout simply mix half a scoop of powder with 150ml-250ml of water and take before your workout.

Pros:

• 4 flavours
• High caffeine content
• Effective ingredients
• May help to avoid excess muscle breakdown
• May increase the blood flow to the muscles and increase the levels of muscle building hormones
• 50 servings per box

Cons:

• The high caffeine content means that you can’t take this pre-workout any less than 6 hours before you intend to go to bed – so may not be suitable for those who like to workout in the evening

Best Caffeine Free Pre-Workout in the UK

Amplify Caffeine-Free Pre-Workout
(Check Amazon’s Price)

If, like me, you’re a high responder to caffeine, then don’t worry – there’s a caffeine-free pre-workout on the market too and it does the job just as well.

I tend to have a small amount of caffeine rather than none (see the first pre-workout on this list), but if you want zero, then this pre-workout by Amplify will give you an energy boost to make the most of your workouts without any Caffeine.

It contains Citrulline, as well as Taurine which is said to aid in hydration, increased blood flow and muscle function.

Amplify also contains Creatine HCl, which is a form of Creatine that dissolves a lot better than Creatine Monohydrate and is said not to increase water intention, which is a positive as it avoids any bloating you may have with a lower quality Creatine.

It also contains Grape Seed Extract which is a powerful antioxidant and is said to lower blood pressure.

There’s also Coconut Water Powder and Himalayan Pink Salt, which both can help with keeping you hydrated – this should give you better pumps and lower the risk of muscle cramps.

There are 3 flavours, as well as an unflavoured version and is easy to mix – just add 1-2 scoops of pre-workout into around 250ml of water, 30 minutes before exercising.

Pros:

• Caffeine free
• Effective ingredients
• Contains Creatine HCl rather than Creatine Monohydrate
• 3 flavours as well as an unflavoured version
• Mixes well

Cons:

• Some say that this does not boost their energy as they would like, but this may be because they are used to taking caffeine!

Best UK Pre-Workout Drink

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard
(Check Amazon’s Price)

This gold standard pre-workout by Optimum Nutrition contains 175mg of Caffeine per serving which is on the lower end compared to some pre-workouts, meaning you shouldn’t get jittery and have an energy crash (depending on your Caffeine tolerance), but will still get that burst of energy.

It’s pretty low in sugar and also contains Acetyl-L-Carnitine HCl and N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine which work together and can improve alertness and blood flow to the muscles.

Beta-Alanine and L-Citrulline are said to help with improved endurance and blood flow, whilst the Creatine may help with your power output.

One of my favourite things about this particular pre-workout is the brand’s focus on immunity, with them saying that it’s an important aspect of recovery so they’ve added Ginseng Root Extract, which is said to support your immune system and improve immunity.

They’ve also added B Vitamins and Vitamin D  which may help to increase your energy levels and support hormone health.

As with the other pre-workouts, there are a few flavours to choose from and 1 scoop of powder needs to be mixed with 350ml of cold water until it’s dissolved.

I regard this as the best drink as it’s an easy, fruit-flavoured pre-workout that mixes well without powdery dregs.

Pros:

• Not too much Caffeine
• May help improve endurance and blood flow as well as power output
• Added Vitamins and Ginseng Root Extract
• 4 flavours
• Easily dissolved
• Almost sugar free

Cons:

• May contain allergens: Peanuts, Soy, Eggs, Milk and Gluten

Best Vegan Pre-Workout in the UK

RSP Vegan Amino Lean
(Check Amazon’s Price)

I ought to start by mentioning my ‘top’ pre-workout (C4, at the top of this list) is vegan, but this pre-workout by Amino Lean is vegan too, but it’s also made from all-natural ingredients such as fermented tea leaves, guarana, and matcha.

There’s also a blend of essential amino acids that may help to aid muscle repair and boost your performance. This can also help to manage a healthy weight with Green Tea and Coffee Extract, Carnitine, and CLA.

It also contains Taurine, Beta-Alanine, L-Citrulline which can help to improve endurance, blood flow and aid in hydration.

This one’s pretty good because besides using it as a pre-workout, it can also be used as a post-workout too. It can be taken at any time of the day, so your schedule isn’t dictated by your supplements.

It comes in 2 flavours, Cucumber Lemon and Acai and 2 scoops are mixed with 250ml of cold water.

Pros:

• Vegan and all-natural ingredients
• Can be taken any time of the day
• May help to repair muscles as well as boost performance and improve alertness
• May help with weight management
• 2 flavours
• Sugar and Calorie free

Cons:

• Small container – only 25 servings

Are Pre-Workout Supplements Worth It?

Pre-workouts are supplements can improve your alertness, energy levels and athletic performance during your workouts.

What you have to remember is that almost anything can be in a pre-workout, and quantities (and qualities!) of ingredients can vary massively depending on the brand of supplement.

It’s not so much that pre-workouts work, but the ingredients in them – if you know what to look for. These include:

Caffeine – one of the main active ingredients in most pre-workouts and is used to increase your energy beforehand, similar to having a cup of coffee in the morning to prepare you for your day. Studies have shown that caffeine does boost performance and endurance, but tends to work better for trained athletes (source: Healthline).

Nitric Oxide is a compound that is naturally found within your body that helps to relax your blood vessels and improve blood flow throughout.

Ingredients contained in pre-workouts, L-Arginine and L-Citrulline, are compounds that your body naturally converts into Nitric Oxide (source: Journal of Sports Medicine).

Taurine is an amino-acid found in the brain, muscles and organs and acts to regulate the transport of nutrients throughout the body. It’s also said that Taurine in pre-workouts can help to hydrate muscles (source: VeryWellFit).

Creatine plays a role in the production of energy and strength and is found naturally in the skeletal muscle.

Taking Creatine can improve recovery time and exercise performance as well as increasing muscle mass and strength, according to the International Society of Sports Nutrition.

However, there may be potential downsides to taking pre-workouts such as an excess of caffeine, especially if you’re someone who drinks tea or coffee throughout the day too.

An excess of caffeine is linked to anxiety, insomnia, and increased blood pressure. Always try a small amount of pre-workout to see how you feel, before taking a full dose for the first time.

Which Pre-Workouts Are Banned In The UK?

If I keep going on about the quality of ingredients, it’s because there have been a few pre-workouts or ingredients that have been banned in the UK due to their side effects.

One of the most notable brands is Jack3D, which was banned in 2012 due to the stimulant DMAA (Dimethylamylamine) that may have potentially lethal side effects.

DMAA has been linked to headaches, vomiting, high blood pressure, stroke and even death. It was ruled by the UK’s MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) as unlicensed as well as all other pre-workout products containing DMAA.

Ephedrine is used as a stimulant in some pre-workouts (and a nasal decongestant) and is legal as long as it’s under 180mg. It is illegal to sell or purchase Ephedrine in quantities over 180mg without a prescription in the UK.

Two other key ingredients that are prohibited that may be contained in certain sports supplements are Ligandrol (LGD-4033) and Octodrine (1,5-dimethylhexylamine).

Ligandrol is marketed for increasing lean muscle mass, whereas Octodrine is a stimulant that is found in many pre-workouts for fat burning. If you see these on an ingredients list – don’t bother.

Always, always check ingredients and look for legit reviews when choosing a pre-workout supplement, even in the UK where we have pretty good regulation.

Everyone is different, and something that works for your mates may not necessarily work for you!

Remember to exercise safely and if you’re considering taking any kind of exercise supplement, do your research and talk to a licensed professional or health coach if you’re not sure.

On the other hand, online fabric shops can be much cheaper and have a huge variety!

With so many sites out there, it can be hard to know the quality of what you’re ordering – especially if the product images aren’t clear.

I’ve put together a guide of the 5 best online fabric retailers and listed their pros and cons to save you the research:

The Best UK Online Shop For Buying Fabrics

MyFabrics

Myfabrics.co.uk has a wide variety of fabrics, from Cotton to dress fabric and a whole host of different colours, so whether you’re buying beautiful fabric for a new outfit or fancy your hand at making cushion covers – I can usually find what I like.

The website is easy to navigate and find what you’re looking for, allowing you to filter by colour, fabric type and even what you’re using the fabric for!

MyFabrics show clear pictures that clearly display what you’re getting – which can often be difficult to find when buying online.

The fabric is often priced by the metre or by piece, but it is clear what you are paying for in the product description.

One of my favourite things about this online store is that they have a whole section devoted to sustainable and organic fabrics in loads of different colours and patterns. They’d be perfect for making children’s clothes that will soon be grown out of, for example.

Not only does my fabric sell fabric, they also sell Haberdashery, DIY and Knitting and Crochet materials – so you’ll be able to get everything you need to complete a project in one place and probably get free shipping if you reach a certain order value.

Finally, they have a very cheap ‘remnants’ section that I always check for bargains.

Pros:

• Easy to order
• Wide selection of fabrics to choose from
• Washing instructions for each fabric type
• Flat rate shipping option
• Good quality
• Samples available

Cons:

• Orders are shipped from Germany, so could be delayed. Although, most reviewers state that their order arrived quickly.

Best Online Shop for Buying Dressmaking Fabric in the UK

Minerva Crafts

Minervacrafts.com have so many types of fabrics for dressmaking it’s hard to count. I love that you can filter the fabrics by weight, which makes it easier to make a dress for the season you want it for.

The product description of each fabric gives you the exact material composition, along with its width, colour and washing instructions.

You can choose the types of fabric you want, the fibres and the prints too, so if there’s an exact style of dress you have in mind you can be sure that you’ll be able to easily find something to make it.

The website allows you to filter the fabrics based on their use – quilting fabric, dancewear fabrics, home fabrics etc which leaves out any guesswork on its suitability.

Minerva crafts also has sections for Sewing, Knitting, Needlework, Crafts, and even Bridal, if you’re a braver soul than I am – or just more talented!

It also has a section called ‘Pattern of the Week’ where they sell a different pattern, so if you’re in need of some inspiration or want to try something new you can find something there.

Customers have said that their site has often helped spark their imagination and create a beautiful garment, with good quality products.

Pros:

• Wide selection, easily filtered to find exactly what you need
• Washing instructions
• Material composition displayed
• Free delivery over £20
• Easy ordering process
• Free returns within 14 days

Cons:

• Can be hard to see exactly what the fabric looks like on the pictures
• Website doesn’t show when an item is out of stock

Best UK Online Shop For Buying Cheap Fabrics

Cheap Fabrics

In case you couldn’t tell by the name, Cheap fabrics have made a name for themselves as a family-owned business, with over 40 years of experience in the textile industry and now they’ve moved online.

A lower price doesn’t always mean that you have to compromise on quality, as shown with cheapfabrics.co.uk. Despite the lower price point, there is still a huge amount of fabric to choose from, sorted by use, type and season.

They also often have a reward system that means every time buy, you get a reward that will eventually give you money off – it’s nice that regular customer loyalty is rewarded.

The website is really easy to use, with everything laid out clearly and the product images show the actual fabric so you can see what you’re ordering. Prices shown are per metre of fabric and you can order samples and patterns too.

Many reviewers have commented how impressed they were with the fabric quality and fast delivery.

Pros:

• Lower price point
• Huge variety to choose from
• Accurate product images
• Reward system
• Student discount
• Bulk buy discount
• Reputable company
• Fabric is cut straight!
• Quick delivery

Cons:

• Doesn’t state the thickness of fabric on the site
• No washing instructions

Second Option For Buying Cheap Fabrics in the UK

Amazon’s Fabric Sellers

Since most of us already have an account, it’s also worth looking at what Amazon stocks from multiple fabric sellers online.

Many people forget to look there, becaue they don’t associate Amazon with fabrics, but the sellers on there have high rated reviews across the whole department.

It’s easy to search for what you’re looking for and compare prices across a huge range of sellers, so you can get the best deal for you.

As Amazon is the ‘middleman’ and stock fabric from other sellers, they have more fabric than independent retailers, so if there’s something very particular that you’re looking for, you’re bound to find it here.

Ordering via the platform gives you the same easy returns and customer service, and if you’re an Amazon Prime account holder there’s free next day delivery on eligible items.

One of my favourite things about ordering from Amazon is the Customer Questions and Answers section, where you can ask questions about the product and people who have already purchased the item can answer.

This way, you can find out if the fabric is going to be suitable for your particular project from people who have used the exact same fabric.

Pros:

• Can compare prices from different sellers for the best price
• High ratings across the whole category
• More fabric choice than shopping with an independent retailer
• Great customer service
• Easy returns
• Free next day delivery for Prime customers
• Reliable service

Cons:

• May take a little extra research into the seller

Best UK Online Shop For Buying Curtain Fabric

Designers Guild

I’ve found that many fabric shops don’t specialize so much in heavier quality fabrics for curtains, but Designersguild.com offers a selection of luxury home fabrics from top designers such as Christian Lacroix and Ralph Lauren Home.

They also have their own brand of textured, printed and plain fabrics for upholstery and curtains.

An extremely useful feature of Designers Guild is that they stock sample swatches so you can really appreciate how the fabric will look in your home before purchasing the full amount.

Once on the fabric section of the site, you can filter by the types of fabric you’re looking for. The product images show each fabric as a swatch and also as curtains, so you can see how they hang and look as the finished product.

All fabric sold is excellent quality and delivered promptly, with multiple colour options for each type of fabric.

Pros:

• High quality
• Stock luxury designers
• Sample swatches
• Fabric shown as curtains
• Prompt delivery
• Multiple colour options

Cons:

• Website can be difficult to navigate
• No washing instructions

Best Online Shop For Upholstery Fabrics in the UK

Fabric Time

Fabrictime.co.uk is a family-run business that aims to bring high-quality fabrics to customers at a reasonable price. They stock a huge selection of fabrics, so there’s bound to be something you like no matter your personal preferences.

They specialise in cotton which is great for upholstering furniture as it’s breathable, avoids pilling, and allows heat and moisture to move away from the skin. 

The fabric is priced per metre and is filtered by fabric type. The product description details the width of the fabric, the weight and what it’s best used for, which is really helpful if you’re new to sewing and upholstering.

Fabric Time also has lots of fun patterns and colours that would be perfect in children’s bedrooms or even more simple ones that would work well in a relaxing living room.

Pros:

• High quality
• Fast delivery
• Specialise in cotton – perfect for upholstering!
• Helpful product images
• Details weight and width

Cons:

• Website is difficult to navigate

Where Can I Buy Cotton Fabric Online In The UK?

Cotton is a well sought after fabric, used to make comfortable and breathable textiles. It comes in a huge array of colours and designs and can even be bought in its natural state – which is great if you’re looking for more sustainable fabric.

Many online retailers sell this fabric, including some of the stores mentioned above. Fabrictime are specialists in cotton, with their selection including 100% cotton, Polycotton and 100% Cotton Linen look.

If you’re after an organic Cotton, take a look at myfabrics’ huge range of organic and natural cotton that comes in more colours than you’d expect! From patterned to plain, for once you don’t have to compromise on design to ensure sustainability.

Both sites have had excellent reviews and are trusted amongst their customers to provide high quality cottons in a variety of different designs. Those would be my top two UK online shops for beautiful cotton fabric, though the others listed here are also good.

Where Can I Get Linen Fabrics In The UK?

Linen fabric is something I get asked about from time to time – it’s often used to upholster household items, such as tablecloths, curtains and soft furnishings.

It’s also a popular material in clothes designed for their comfort as well as style as it’s breathable, and I often wear linen in hot temperatures.

If you want to buy linen online that is intended for dressmaking or clothes, then minervacrafts have an extensive and exciting wide range of linen for sale.

The plain selection of fabrics comes in a variety of colours, they have printed designs and even a linen and viscose blend, which won’t crease as easily and has a bit more stretch.

If you want linen for household items like bedsheets, Cheapfabrics have a selection of linen fabrics available on their site, with designs suited to most projects.

Their linens are soft and have a natural look, and if you want something a little more unique they even offer embroidered linens.

As a third option for linen, I’d also advise you to check Amazon. They stock a vast range of linen fabrics from multiple sellers.

After reading this guide, I hope that it has helped you to find what you’re looking for and helped you on your way to creating some beautiful crafts at home!

When I developed it, I presumed I needed special shoes to treat it and although this is a possibility, orthopedic shoes and insoles from medical shops can be very expensive.

Many people – including me – have had success in treating their plantar fasciitis by buying budget-friendly footwear with arch support, or using their existing shoes with a removable, specialist insole. 

Of course, how you decide to treat it is entirely up to you and you should always seek medical advice.

However, if you’re in the market for new shoes with support, insoles or compression socks to help with the pain, then this guide might help.

The Best Womens’ Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis in the UK

HKR Womens Trainers Mesh Running Slip-on Walking Shoes (Check Amazon’s Price)

These shoes by HKR have a chunky sole which allows you to keep your footwear stylish without compromising on comfortability, so you can wear them no matter the occasion – great if you’re going on holiday and can only take one or two pairs of shoes with you!

The style of the shoe mimics the natural curvature of your foot to offer support where you need it most.

They have a shock-absorbing air cushion giving not only your feet protection but your knees too which will reduce pain if you’re walking for a long period of time.

They run slightly larger in size, but this isn’t a problem if you have insoles for plantar fasciitis as they will slide right in.

One woman said that “I suffer with plantar fasciitis and these shoes are brilliant, they have a cushioned heel and supportive arch, so no pain anymore”.

Pros:

• Fashionable and comfortable shoes
• Arch support
• Breathable mesh upper
• Slip on
• Variety of colours

Cons:

• Sizes run large
• Not waterproof

The Best Men’s Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis in the UK

Skechers Men’s Equalizer Double Fitness Shoes (Check Amazon’s Price)

When I started researching the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, these shoes by Skechers came up a few times in forums and anecdotally in reviews.

They have a gel-infused memory foam insole that supports the arch of the foot and a shock-absorbing flex sole, taking the strain off of the tendon in your foot.

They also come in half sizes as well as a wide fit, so you know you’ll find a shoe size that fits you correctly, without being too tight and giving you further foot pain.

With plantar fasciitis, it’s recommended that you don’t walk on hard surfaces barefoot as the pressure on your foot will aggravate your pain more, so as these shoes are slip ons they can be worn as slippers too!

They have a synthetic mesh upper and textile lining, meaning that they’re breathable enough for you to wear on long walks or inside all day without your feet getting too hot and swelling.

One person commented that these were the only shoes that gave them pain relief from plantar fasciitis, whilst someone else said that they bought these because they suffered from PF intermittently and it much improved the condition for them.

Pros:

• Gel infused memory foam insole and a shock absorbing flex sole
• Slip on
• Variety of colours
• Wide fit and half sizes available

Cons:

• Not waterproof, but could be resolved by purchasing a waterproof shoe protector spray

Best Men’s Slippers For Plantar Fasciitis in the UK

Pro 11 Wellbeing Men’s Orthotic Slipper (Check Amazon’s Price)

Most regular slippers aren’t suitable for those with plantar fasciitis as they’re flat and offer no support to the arches of your feet or your heel.

However, these suede slippers have orthotic insoles that support your feet and reduce pain, home can finally be a place where you can relax!

The orthotic insoles are also removable, which means you can insert your own if you need them, without the slippers becoming too tight.

One person said that they’re “very comfortable and I would recommend them to anyone with plantar fasciitis”.

They have a fur lining to keep your feet warm and are easy to slip on and off without rubbing the back of your foot.

As they’re suede, they’ll mould to your feet as you wear them and they have rubber soles so you can wear them to take the bins out without having to change shoes!

Pros:

• Orthotic insoles that are removable
• Rubber soles
• Suede
• Slip on

Cons:

• The inner fur lining can get worn down and come away with continued wear

Best UK Women’s Slipper for Plantar Fasciitis

Fitflop Shearling Open Back Slippers for Women (Check Amazon’s Price)

These slippers by FitFlop have impact pillows at both the front and back of the slipper, to absorb the shock when walking and ensure that it’s dispersed evenly along the foot.

To add extra support to your arches, there’s an anatomically shaped footbed, with a built-in arch contour that hugs your feet.

They also have a slightly raised heel, which should reduce plantar fasciitis pain as the heel and arches of the foot is where you need more support, someone even commented that these are “great for plantar fasciitis heel pain”.

The slippers have a solid sole so you can clean the floors or step outside without worrying that your feet will get wet!

Pros:

• Impact pillows and excellent arch support
• Raised heel
• Solid sole

Cons:

• The dye from inside the slippers can stain your feet when new, this has been solved by running them through the washing machine

Best Men’s Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis in the UK

Everhealth Orthotic Sandal Flip Flops (Check Amazon’s Price)

These arch support sandals by Everhealth are the perfect summer shoe for those that need a bit of extra support.

We all know how difficult it can be to find sandals that aren’t flat and don’t aggravate plantar fasciitis.

However, these sandals have a solid, orthotic midsole and deep heel cup that stabilise the pressure on your feet and support them.

This will take the pressure off of your plantar fascia and hopefully stop the inflammation that leads to heel pain. With continued wear, they can help to correct your posture.

They’re podiatrist recommended and designed to be worn for all-day walking, so you can wear them across difficult terrains and feel relaxed in knowing you’re not going to suffer at the end of the day.

One person said that “I have suffered with plantar fasciitis for the past couple of months and these were bought for my golf holiday as there will be a lot of walking. They are so comfortable and supportive footwear I can wear these and walk with only a tiny amount of pain!”.

So you can finally go for that long walk along the beach!

Pros:

• Podiatrist recommended
• Arch support for all day walking
• Lightweight, flexible midsole that absorbs shock
• Outsole provides traction
• Multiple colours

Cons:

• The toe post is made of a rough fabric that can irritate you on the first few wears

Best Women’s Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis in the UK

Everhealth Orthotic Sandals for Women (Check Amazon’s Price)

Sandals are one of the only types of shoes that you can’t put your own insoles in, so having built-in support instead is a must.

The women’s version of the Everhealth sandals are just as comfortable and provide the same amount of support as the men’s, with the only difference being that they are in women’s sizes!

One woman commented that these are “fantastic” and “really help my plantar fasciitis. Would recommend”, whilst someone else said “these are extremely comfortable and effective in reducing pain due to plantar fasciitis”.

They go to show that there’s no need to choose between comfort and style, with these sandals you can have both as they come in different colours and will suit practically any outfit or special occasion.

Pros:

• Podiatrist recommended
• Arch and heel support
• Shock absorbing midsole
• Multiple colours

Cons:

• Toe post can be uncomfortable

Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis in the UK

Best Value: Pro 11 Orthotic insoles (Check Amazon’s Price)

If you’re not looking to replace any shoes, then purchasing insoles may be a better option for you.

These unisex orthotic insoles are specially designed for the treatment of plantar fasciitis and one pair can be used in all of your favourite shoes as they can be hand washed when they start to get a bit grubby.

You can cut them down to size using scissors to suit any style of footwear, including running shoes.

Even if you don’t currently suffer from plantar fascia pain, these insoles could be worn as a preventative method if you’re looking to take up outdoor running, one of the most common causes of plantar fasciitis.

Pros:

• Can be used in any shoe if cut down to size
• Hand washable
• Supports both the arch and heel of the foot to reduce pressure

Cons:

• Can take some getting used to

Higher End Insole Option: Heel That Pain Plantar Fasciitis Insoles (Check Amazon’s Price)

Heel That Pain Plantar Fasciitis insoles have a patented ‘Fascia bar’ which provides support to the point where the heel bone meets the plantar fascia ligament, which helps to realign and stretch the ligament to relieve pain long term.

They also have ‘fat-pad support’ and heel stabilisation technology to support and cushion the heel bone, and reduce the pain felt there.

One woman who suffers from plantar fasciitis commented that these “took away 90% of the pain almost immediately”.

Pros:

• Patented technology to reduce heel pain
• Can be cut down to size
• Hand washable
• Unisex
• Realigns and stretches the ligament for long term pain relief

Cons:

• The sizes are Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large rather than specific shoe sizes, so you might find that you’re in between sizes (but they can be cut down if need be)

Best UK Compression Socks for Plantar Fasciitis

Value Option: AVIDDA Unisex Socks (Check Amazon’s Price)

If you lead an active lifestyle, you may want to invest in compression socks that provide extra support to your ankles and ligaments.

These unisex socks by AVIDDA are made from breathable fabric so you can wear them for any kind of exercise, from walking the dog to HIIT training without the fear your feet are going to get uncomfortably hot.

The compression technology reduces inflammation and improves blood circulation for faster healing and according to plantar fasciitis sufferers “these make the world of difference”.

You could even wear them to bed to reduce any cramping that you may experience at the end of a long day.

Pros:

• Range of colour options
• Flexible, so don’t feel tight or restrictive
• Machine and hand washable
• Suitable for use during any exercise

Cons:

• Can be difficult to determine your size

Higher End Option: Rymora Plantar Fasciitis Socks (Check Amazon’s Price)

These double layered compression socks by Rymora have 4 zone targeted compression technology that provides support to the ankle, achilles tendon, heel and arch of your foot and they’re thin enough so that you can wear normal socks over (or under) them comfortably.

They have an additional layer of material at the bottom to absorb shock, whilst encouraging blood circulation around the whole of the foot.

These can be worn alone, but if you feel like you need even more support they can be worn with orthotic slippers, insoles or shoes too to ensure that you’re pain-free any time of the day.

Pros:

• Can be worn alone, with normal socks or slippers
• Provides pain relief and speeds up the healing process
• Machine and hand washable
• 4 zone targeted compression

Cons:

• Size is based off of arch circumference, so you have to measure correctly

All in all, suffering with plantar fasciitis is not only painful, but can also be frustrating as you may feel that you can’t do the things that you used to do before.

After reading this post, rest assured there will be a solution out there for you to help you live a pain-free life, I hope this post helps you find it!