The really useful column

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Most standard mass-marketed air fresheners are a combination of water (up to 60 per cent) and chemicals such as petroleum distillates. But you can get all-natural air fresheners, which are safe for use with infants, asthmatics and people suffering from bronchial disorders.One such freshener, produced by Citrus Magic and called Citrus Blend, is made of concentrated citrus oils with no added water or preservatives. The scent is that of freshly opened fruit (I've tried it and it's convincing), and you need only use the smallest amount because of its strength. It is particularly good for banishing tobacco smells. You can find Citrus Magic products in health-food stores, pet shops and branches of John Lewis. For further information call Citrus Magic on 020 8256 0000, or visit the website at www.citrusmagic.co.uk

BARGAIN OF THE WEEK

I've been looking for a supplier of discount fabrics and was delighted to discover B Brown, based in Pentonville Road. Its main business is selling materials to the trade for display purposes, but it does sell direct to the public from prices as low as £2 a metre. And what a choice; just about every colour of felt under the sun, embossed and plain PVC, vinyls, printed cottons, hessian, suede and more. This is a great place for a bargain. B Brown, 79-89 Pentonville Road, N1 (08705 340340; www.bbrown.co.uk).

WONDERFUL WOODWORK

Craftsmen are a rare breed these days, so I was interested to come across Wheeler and Co, which specialises in reinstating the 'finishing woodwork' in the 18th and 19th century houses. This involves either replacing missing items, such as shutters, doors and paneling, or repairing existing items which have fallen into decay, by using the same materials and techniques as would have been used when the items were first made. All jobs are costed on a time basis only. Wheeler and Co can be found at 55 Dalston Lane, E8 (020 7254 2254).