Millions of households are seeing a massive increase in their energy bills, with direct debit payments doubling in price. The crippling hikes mean it's going to be a tough winter for most of the nation.
Not only have our energy bills gone up, the price of food, fuel and pretty much everything in between has shot up too. Manchester Evening News writer Bethan Shufflebotham has spent the last 12 months reviewing household items that can help save you money.
She has tested out everything from heated air dryers, to hot water bottles for your feet and snuggly hooded blankets. Here's her account of eight of the best she's tried, with information on any Black Friday reductions too.
