People across the country are trying to find ways to save money as the winter chill creeps in and the cost of living crisis continues. As skyrocketing inflation rates, hiked energy bills and soaring food prices leave many Brits struggling to afford the basics, we've been forced to think carefully about our energy usage at home in a bid to cut back on costs.
When every penny counts, mundane household chores come into sharper focus - including the washing up. It can now cost around 96p to wash your dishes by hand in hot water, so people may be looking for cheaper ways to clean their mucky plates - but who knew washing in cold water was actually an option?
After I heard that Wilko shoppers were rushing to buy a £2.50 kitchen item that could cut hundreds of pounds off energy bills, I knew I had to try it for myself. It almost sounds too good to be true, but the proof was in the pudding - or my washing up bowl.
Thrifty shoppers have been applauding Fairy Liquid's new formula which allows you to wash your dirty dishes in cold water.
It's designed to kill germs in cooler temperatures, and claims to leave your dishes just as sparkling.
I opted to buy the new Christmas scent, Wild Berry, and after cooking a lovely meal, I approached the dirty dishes a little apprehensively.
I'd always believed that in order to wash your dishes hygienically, you needed warm water. But it turns out I was so very wrong.
Mind-bogglingly, I found that the washing-up liquid performs just as well as your classic Fairy liquid - or any other washing up liquid for that matter.
I must admit, it was a little bit bizarre putting my hands in cold, sudsy water, but I was impressed that the suds were present, despite the lack of warmth.
After washing the dishes, they were as clean and sparkling as they would've been if I'd used warm water - so it's a win-win for me.
As I was scrubbing, I also noted that a little goes a long way with this product. Although £2.50 might seem like a lot to spend on a humble washing up liquid, it feels like a no-brainer given how much money you could save in the long run by not using any hot water in your sink.
Research has shown that the way in which you scrub your dishes is just as important as the water temperature itself - so if you do try this product, make sure to clean your dishes thoroughly.
With that said, I didn't find it any more difficult to remove food particles from the plates when using the cold Fairy Liquid - which was a really important factor.
Amid the rising cost of living, making this swap would be a really great way to save money.
I'd definitely recommend you give it a go, especially if you're looking to cut back costs - as every little helps this winter.
Will you be making this swap? Let us know in the comments.