TIDIES OF COMFORT AND JOY

A DUST-FREE TREE, GLEAMING CUTLERY... LYNSEY CROMBIE'S QUICK CHRISTMAS HACKS ARE A LIFESAVER. BY SAM WYLIE-HARRIS

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THE Christmas lights are on, shop windows are full of gift ideas - and festive fixes are rising to the top of our to-do list.

If you're setting the stage for holiday hosting, making sure your surfaces, tableware and crystal are as shiny and sparkly as the twinkling lights on the tree is a must.

To get your home guest-ready, Lynsey Crombie, Queen of Clean (@lynsey-queenofclean), home expert and TV presenter, shares her top tips to make your festive season prep easier and more joyful...

1. Give cutlery a bicarb bath

"Give dull silverware a festive glow by soaking it in warm water with a spoonful of bicarbonate of soda," says Lynsey.

"Leave it for 10-15 minutes in a sink lined with tin foil, rinse, and buff dry for a just-polished shine... perfect for Christmas table settings."

2. Sharpen scissors

"No need to buy new scissors before wrapping season! Simply fold a sheet of tin foil and snip through it several times.