I don't know how I got away with it until now, but I had no idea Homesense was part of the TK Maxx family. If I had known, I might not have given them more space every time I passed the store in Trafford Palazzo.
So when a new branch recently opened in Altrincham, Trafford, we decided to take a look and see what bargains we could find inside. As soon as I stepped into Altrincham Retail Park, it was clear I was spoiled for choice.
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Altrincham's new Homesense store – I bought a giant hot water bottle for £14.99 (Image: Manchester Family / MEN)
Most of that has now been replaced by Christmas decorations, which are beautiful in their own way, but everything from large furniture like sofas and tables to candles, bedding, kitchenware, and everything in between is now available on request. Sold at up to 60% less than retail price.
I still regret not buying the fancy green casserole dish I fell in love with, so I might have to make another trip for that. The one I bought cost £14.99 and has already helped me.
Sandwiched between the body cream and eye mask was the longest hot water bottle I had ever seen.
Long hot water bottle to keep you warm, £14.99 (Image: Manchester Family/MEN)
On the back of the box, there is an explanation that “It can be used in three ways,'' including “Wrap it around your neck to provide comfortable warmth to your entire body,'' and “Wrap it around your neck to relieve fatigue.'' “Tension, aches, pains” or “Place around the tummy to relieve aches and cramps.”
That was the first use I wanted to use this for. And with the weather getting colder this week, it's time to give it a try. I have to say I almost turned on the heating (gasp) when I remembered picking this up about a week ago.
However, I didn't need to do that if I put this on my side on the couch for an hour before bed to warm up my body before bed.
There are many things to choose from in the store (Image: Manchester Family / MEN)
It's my first time using a hot water bottle, so I'm a little nervous, but it felt really good and I think I was able to come out faster than usual.
You can also save a lot on the suggested retail price. A quick look at the Hot Water Bottle Shop website where similar ones are listed shows prices starting from £37.99.
If you can stop using the heating and get a better night's sleep, it's definitely £14.99 well spent. I'm not sure I can say the same about a 20 pound casserole dish.
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