Claire Davies

editor | writer | content strategist

United Kingdom

Content areas: health & wellness | lifestyle | home | music | outdoors | tech

Portfolio

SLEEP AND MATTRESSES

TopTenReviews
Best mattress online 2021: From hybrid to memory foam mattresses

When choosing the best mattress online for you, there are several things to consider. Aside from budget, the chief considerations are what position do you normally fall asleep in, and do you have any specific health needs? A good mattress should offer ample support and comfort, and help you feel almost weightless during sleep.

TopTenReviews
04/20/2021
Casper Sleep launches new cooling mattress tech and sheets ahead of summer

Casper Sleep has just unveiled a new cooling mattress innovation called Snow Technology, now found in the Wave Hybrid Snow and the Nova Hybrid Snow mattresses. Designed especially for hot sleepers, these Snow Technology powered beds could make a world of difference to people suffering from overheating during sleep, and who are considering investing in a cooler setup to help them snooze more comfortably through the night.

TopTenReviews
How to stop anxiety ruining your sleep, according to a psychologist

At times life can be fun, brilliant and filled with joy, but other times it can be sad, challenging, or plain disappointing. That's life, right? But for those with anxiety, every day is worrisome. And anxiety cares little for our sleep, even though we know why sleep is so vital for our wellbeing.

TopTenReviews
Best pillows for sleeping 2021: Comfy bed pillows for all sleep positions

When you have the best pillows for sleeping nestled under your head, drifting off becomes easier and more enjoyable. Not all bed pillows are made equal though, and some are way better than others in terms of support, comfort and sheer snuggliness. On a basic level, a pillow is where you lay during sleep, right?

TopTenReviews
How to wake up early and not feel tired (yes, really)

Grogginess is a common complaint made by people who desperately want to know how to wake up early and not feel tired. Yes, the dreaded morning fatigue. In a 9 to 5 world you might feel obliged to wake up at the crack of dawn and leap out of bed with your best "OK, world, do your worst!" grin on your face...

TopTenReviews
Best Casper mattress deals and discounts: Save up to $940

The latest and best Casper mattress deals and discounts are here, courtesy of the sleep brand's latest sale offers, now live on select products. These deals will save you up to $940 on a Casper mattress, plus up to 50% off bedding.

TopTenReviews
Too stressed to sleep? Try these calming exercises for a more restful night

The pandemic has hit our collective sleep hard, with high levels of prolonged stress and anxiety cited as some of the causes of temporary insomnia. Unfortunately, feeling too stressed to sleep is a common state of being for many, but there are ways to better manage the relationship between stress and sleep.

TopTenReviews
Save $200 on a Beautyrest mattress made using recovered ocean plastic

This year's Beautyrest Memorial Day deals are now live, and there's good news for those of you looking to protect the ocean and your sleep. Right now you can save $200 on the Beautyrest Harmony Lux Diamond, a mattress covered with a sustainable fabric tech called Seaqual Fabric.

TopTenReviews
Sleep Awareness Week 2021: A celebration of better sleep health

Sleep Awareness Week 2021 is nearly over, and we have seen some great articles shared across the internet - and right here on Top Ten Reviews. Sleep Week, as it's more commonly known, was launched in 1998 by the National Sleep Foundation, a global authority on all things slumber.

TopTenReviews
Early Memorial Day mattress sale: Get 15% off Tuft & Needle's Original Mattress

(Image credit: Tuft & Needle) The Tuft & Needle Original Mattress has racked up a mass of five-star reviews, with existing customers praising its ability to keep them cool and comfy at night. And now you can save 15% on the Original, plus other Tuft & Needle models, thanks to this early Memorial day mattress sale.

TopTenReviews
How to sleep when it's hot at night (quick, buy ALL the fans)

If you're wondering how to sleep when it's hot at night, you're in the right place with our tips on how to cool your bedroom and cool down yourself quickly. Warmer weather makes it difficult to fall asleep as your body temperature is raised.

TopTenReviews
Emma mattress USA Black Friday deal: Save 40% and enjoy 'superior sleep'

(Image credit: Emma Sleep) This year's Emma mattress USA Black Friday deals have landed, with a magnificent 40% off saving across the entire site, plus up to 45% off an Emma Sleep Bundle. So if you've been holding out for a whopping discount on a pressure relieving memory foam mattress, here's your chance.

TopTenReviews
How a lack of sleep could increase your risk of COVID, according to new study

According to a new global observational study of high-risk healthcare workers, poor or insufficient sleep increases a person's risk of becoming infected with COVID-19, and of having to endure a longer recovery. Daily burnout has also been linked to a high risk of coronavirus infection by the web-based study, published in the online journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention and Health.

TopTenReviews
Cocoon by Sealy Memorial Day mattress sale: Get up to $799 of savings

The Cocoon by Sealy Memorial Day sale has begun, with up to $799 worth of savings (discount, plus free gifts) to be had on the brand's top-rated Chill Memory Foam and Chill Hybrid cooling beds. There's a 35% discount on both mattresses, and you'll also receive free breathable bed sheets and pillows (bundle worth up to $199).

Writing: features, news, interviews, buyer's guides, listicles and how-to articles

TopTenReviews
TRX Home2 System Suspension Trainer review

Our TRX Home2 System review has been several weeks in the making, so we've spent ample time trying out a variety of upper body, lower body and full body workouts, courtesy of the TRX app. Our aim?

TopTenReviews
How to keep your glasses from fogging up while wearing a mask

Wearing a face covering helps slow the spread, but there's a pesky side effect for those of us who mask-up while wearing spectacles: foggy lenses. And it doesn't matter if you've invested in a pair of the best eyeglasses either, as steamy lenses are something all mask-wearers encounter.

TopTenReviews
5 mental health benefits of walking: From stress relief to problem solving

A daily stroll does wonders for your overall wellbeing. In fact, the mental health benefits of walking range from stress and anxiety management to clearing brain fog and boosting your ability to quickly solve problems. Walking is also linked to better sleep, a reduced risk of depression, and higher levels of happiness and self-esteem.

TopTenReviews
Can you sleep with contacts in? Experts weigh in

Picture the scene: it's a rainy Sunday afternoon and you're feeling snoozy. The only thing stopping you from drifting off is the fact that you're wearing contacts. Suddenly you're wondering, can you sleep with contacts in? After all, how much harm could it do?

TopTenReviews
Best digital thermometers 2021: Detecting fever in adults and babies

The best digital thermometers are designed to produce fast temperature readings to help you see whether you, or the person you're caring for, has a fever. While you can buy dedicated thermometers for babies, most modern digital thermometers are suitable for use on adults and children, although we'd always advise reading the instructions and following the manufacturer's recommendations for use.

TopTenReviews
Echelon Smart Rower review 2021

The Echelon Smart Rower is the home fitness brand's entry-level indoor rowing machine, and is the perfect choice for beginners upwards looking to blend cardio and strength in one targeted workout. The Echelon Smart Rower can be used solo or in conjunction with the brand's home rowing workouts (viewable via a paid-for Echelon United Membership), and is designed to help you build full body strength, week on week.

TopTenReviews
10 coronavirus myths busted by a doctor

When the coronavirus pandemic first erupted across the globe, we knew precious little about this new disease. Fast forward several months and we are much more aware of how the coronavirus spreads and how long it lives on items and surfaces.

TopTenReviews
Mila Air Purifier review 2021

When the Mila Air Purifier first arrived with us for testing, there were three things we weren't expecting. First, it's a tad more compact than we thought it would be (we aren't complaining). Second, it's very easy to set up. And third, it truly is stylish (which genius gave it a polka dot design?).

TopTenReviews
Eyesight and increased screen time: Expert tips for protecting your vision

Vision experts from spectacle lens manufacturer Essilor are warning people not to ignore their eye health during current and future coronavirus lockdowns, or else they may risk noticeable eyestrain. The warning is based on data gathered by UK communications regulator Ofcom, during the country's first national lockdown in April.

TopTenReviews
10/09/2020
Where to buy reusable fabric face masks online

If you're wondering where to buy reusable fabric face masks online, you're in luck as we have rounded-up all of the stores with plenty of stock (and at decent prices too), whether you want disposable face masks or reusable face coverings. They are still hugely important to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.

TopTenReviews
09/22/2020
Echelon Smart Connect EX3 Max Bike review

The Echelon Smart Connect EX3 Max Bike is purpose built for spin class and endurance cycling workouts in the comfort and privacy of your own home. It would suit anyone looking for a low-impact cardio workout to help them lose or maintain weight, and to generally boost their cardio health.

TopTenReviews
04/06/2021
IKEA launches $55 FÖRNUFTIG HEPA air purifier and it's ideal for small homes

IKEA is known as the land of flatpack furniture and discount artificial plants, but now it's home to a wellbeing essential too: an air purifier. Namely, the IKEA FÖRNUFTIG, a small, fabric-covered indoor air cleanser that costs just $54.99. Can anything this small or cheap be that good when it comes to purifying the air inside your home?

TopTenReviews
05/27/2021
Dry Eye Syndrome is on the rise, and these are the symptoms to look for

Many of us have been spending vast amounts of time indoors these past months, perhaps with the heating on, and staring at screens (big and small) for most of the day and evening. Both of these factors are thought to be leading causes of Dry Eye Syndrome, cases of which have been soaring during the pandemic, eye doctors say.

TopTenReviews
11/19/2020
Why the new Avocado Mattress face mask is worth adding to your virus protection kit

(Image credit: Avocado Green) Organic sleep brand Avocado Mattress has released a host of new wellness and sleep products for winter 2020, including a full redesign of its organic cotton protective face covering for adults and children. The new Avocado Mattress Face Mask has built-in filter pockets, ready for your filter material of choice, and cost $30 for a 4-pack at Avocado.

TopTenReviews
05/28/2021
Save 60% on frames, 20% on Ray-Ban in the GlassesUSA Memorial Day sale

If you're searching for a GlassesUSA promo code to save in the Memorial Day sales, you're in luck as the eyewear retailer has just announced a new 60% discount on frames with free basic RX lenses. The promo code ( DEAL60) can't be used on premium, sale products, kids glasses or any frames tagged 'new arrival'.

TopTenReviews
03/04/2021
Love resistance training? Then don't miss Halle Berry's free online workouts

If you've ever checked out Halle Berry's Instagram account, you'll have seen her #FitnessFriday posts, documenting her inspirational fitness journey since directing and starring in upcoming MMA film Bruised. Berry wanted to get in the best shape of her life for the film, and fans have been catching glimpses of some of the moves she's been using to get an MMA fighter physique.

loudersound
06/09/2020
15 best Father's Day gifts for music lovers

You won't find any dull handkerchief sets in our guide to the best Father's Day gifts for music lovers, but you will find socks. Soft, highly breathable cotton socks. It's alright, though, because they're Beatles socks. Exactly.

TopTenReviews
01/13/2021
Quick! The Fitbit Charge 4 is on sale, along with two top Fitbit watches

Getting healthy for less just got easier thanks to this sweet little deal on the Fitbit Charge 4. Until 16 January, you can save $30 on the Charge 4 at Fitbit, and that includes both the classic version of the tracker, now $119.95 (was $139.95), and the Special Edition, now $139.95 (was $169.95).

TopTenReviews
06/03/2020
7 best meditation apps 2020: mindfulness and meditation for beginners up

Meditation is an ancient practice for boosting emotional calm and mental clarity, and the best meditation apps coming out now can help ignite or deepen your practice. There are many benefits of meditation. A 2016 study found that 60% of participants reported a significant improvement in general wellness, energy, concentration, stress, anxiety and depression when meditating regularly.

TopTenReviews
05/15/2020
12 common coronavirus questions answered by a doctor

As the coronavirus pandemic continues, so do the questions about the COVID-19 virus. One of the most persistent questions is whether coronavirus is airborne, closely followed by 'can you catch coronavirus twice'? It's understandable that many of us are wondering about the various aspects of the virus, and what we can do to better protect ourselves and our loved ones until a vaccine is rolled out.

TopTenReviews
06/03/2020
Coronavirus symptoms vs seasonal allergies: an allergist explains the difference

We all love the warmer weather of late spring and summer, but those sunshine-filled days can also usher in something much more frustrating for many Americans: allergy season. Unfortunately, this year it coincides with the coronavirus pandemic, leading many allergy sufferers to worry over whether the coughing, sneezing and fatigue they're experiencing are coronavirus symptoms or telltale signs of a seasonal allergy flare-up.

TopTenReviews
05/19/2020
How to stay healthy and feel happy when working from home

Since the coronavirus lockdown began, many of us have switched to working from home. It's a big change, both mentally and physically, as we lose a large part of our daily structure that comes from commuting to and from our place of work, and might be less active as a result.

T3
Instant mood boosters for your living space

Lighting and scent have a huge effect on the mood of your living space. Here's how to use them to create a relaxed or energising environment, depending on how you want to feel

T3
Tech to beat the winter blues

Is the deep dark of winter bringing you down and making you feel sluggish and fed up? Give yourself a boost of happiness and energy with this new breed of feel-good tech.

Total Guitar
Tony Iommi, The Eternal Idol: the life and times of heavy metal's very own iron man

One from the vaults... I first heard Black Sabbath in my teens. I had never heard a noise like it. There were loads of other Sabbath fans on the Total Guitar team too, so it wasn't surprising that when I landed an interview with guitarist Tony Iommi, long-time TG photographer Joby Sessions and I were inundated by TG staffers offering to carry our gear on the day of the shoot/interview. Tony had a dry sense of humour, was exceptionally tall. A real career highlight for me.

T3
How to prepare your smart home for autumn

From checking your water pipes to updating your security, there are several key ways to prep your home for the darker, colder months. Here we round up the tech to help you do it.

T3
Pure sound: the making of the Devialet Phantom Reactor

A behind the scenes look at the creation of one of the world's most powerful ultra-compact speakers. I had a brilliant two days in Paris sourcing interviews, visiting factories (and an opera house) and meeting the Devialet family

T3
Dyson Supersonic hair dryer review: how to get salon hair at home

Hair dryers used to be boring until the Dyson Supersonic came along. Dyson dazzled us with claims that the Supersonic hair dryer can increase shine, decrease frizz and flyaways, and dry hair quickly and quietly without using damaging extreme heat. Like the Dyson AirWrap multi-tool styler, it's become a hugely coveted beauty tool.

T3
Merrell's new waterproof hiking boots are perfect for sneaker fans

In recent years, hiking boots have become ever-more sneaker like in terms of their performance and comfort levels, thanks in no small part to higher levels of sole cushioning, as well as tech borrowed from trail running shoes. And Merrell's new everyday Zion Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots (£139.99 at Ellis Brigham) available in men's and women's sizes (also £139.99), are no exception.

T3
Room with a view

A conservatory can be a highly relaxing space if styled right. So this month, have fun mixing warm metallics with calming neutral tones

T3
10 best camping chairs 2020: sit down and relax in the great outdoors

Sitting down on the chilly, bumpy floor of your tent gets old pretty quick, especially on longer camping holidays, which is why it's smart to save some of your budget to buy one (or a few) of the best camping chairs. These types of portable, folding chairs make a big difference to your comfort on the campsite.

Acoustic
John Smith: the acclaimed singer-guitarist unveils his highly personal new album

During my tenure editing Acoustic magazine, I finally interviewed acoustic singer-guitarist John Smith. He's an accomplished guitarist and an insightful songwriter, often choosing to focus on the smallest details of a person, situation or thought. It amps the feeling of intimacy, so you become more invested in what he's singing about.

T3
The Italian job

Everything you need to whip up an Italian style feast, including the world’s most beautiful pasta maker, and a handmade carafe to let your red wines breathe

T3
Clean up your act

My house has never been so clean. For this review piece I tested six of the best cordless vacs on the market to see which sucks the most (ie, the best). All but two met their match with the fur from my ever-shedding Persian cat...

T3
Best walking sandals 2020: breathable sandals for women, men and kids

The best walking sandals for exploring the outdoors are different to the majority of fashion sandals in that they provide enhanced arch support, and higher levels of cushioning and footbed comfort. They're also more durable for off-road walking, with grippy soles designed to keep you upright on slippery terrain.

T3
Live the high life

Start living a life of excitement and luxury with T3's hand-picked guide to the most exclusive, Instagram-worthy holidays, supercars, tech, toys and experiences money can buy

T3
Read between the lines

Beat a retreat to your very own reading nook, built around these relaxing and cosy pieces.

T3
New house rules: new season style for men

T3 has a monthly style spread, which I curate and write. Just like fashion, the spread has evolved over the years and aims to help readers find some new pieces to add to their wardrobe each month, as well as helping them to refine their appearance through proper grooming.

Total Guitar
Gallows: Grey Britain

Another one from the vaults... Total Guitar photographer Joby Sessions and I travelled to Gallows home town of Watford to interview guitarists Lags and Steph about the band's major label debut. I was a big fan of this band, and this interview and shoot are one of my favourite assignments from my days on TG.

T3
Your best year ever

The opening spread from a 'New year, new goals' cover feature I conceptualised and wrote for T3, covering health and fitness, creativity, work, play and the home. I love setting new goals at the start of every year, and mine are mostly always related to wellness and creativity.

T3
The joy of tidying

If decluttering cheers you up, Marie Kondo style, get tidying away clothes, toys and knick-knacks into these stylish storage solutions.

T3
Best tents 2019: for family holidays, solo trips & hiking

This is one of the top-performing buyer's guides I write/edit for T3, working to optimise its value to readers and boost the guide's commercial value. When I started editing T3's Outdoors vertical late last summer, this guide was in and out of the Top 10-ranking articles for 'best tents'. Today it's No 1.

T3
Backpacking essentials: kit out your backpack with these ace gadgets

Backpacking is a fantastic way to explore. It's accessible to everyone and is enormously liberating - just grab your backpack and go. That said, what you stuff into that backpack can have a big impact on how enjoyable your outdoor adventure is. So, what exactly goes into your backpack to make for a fun-filled and stress free trip?

T3
Light and bright with Living Coral

Pantone’s colour of the year 2019, Living Coral, is the ideal shade for livening up your home’s interior palette during the depths of winter.

T3
The best tech for Christmas

Here's the opening spread of T3's Christmas Gift Guide 2018. It's a great blend of products that not only perform brilliantly and are highly useful or entertaining, but they look stylish too.

T3
Men's style and grooming: cool denim jackets, and how to dress like Beckham

Style sits with the Horizon section I edit for T3 magazine. I often curate and write the spread myself, but I do enjoy freelancing it out and working with a writer, discussing potential themes and geeking out over clobber. I wrote this particular spread, covering the best denim jackets, how to buy a bespoke suit, and how to dress like David Beckham.

T3
19 best waterproof jackets 2020: shrug off the elements with these all-weather picks

Taking home one of the best waterproof jackets for your needs is a solid investment, especially if you're an outdoors type or want a lightweight yet breathable jacket to keep drizzle and heavier rain at bay. How well a waterproof jacket does that depends entirely on the type you buy and the level of waterproofing vs water repellency it offers.

T3
Set the festive scene

Are you hosting this Christmas? Adorn your dining table with these key pieces to easily introduce a rich, celebratory vibe

T3
The best camping lantern 2019: light up your tent and base camp

Finding your way around the campsite or the inside of your tent at night is easier when you're packing one of the best camping lanterns for outdoor living. Amusingly, it only becomes clear how useful these are when you don't have one. Ever tried navigating your way to the toilet block in darkness? Yeah, exactly.

Writing: deals posts covering general and seasonal sales, plus Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday

T3
Sleep better with up to 40% off in Soak and Sleep's Cyber Monday sale live NOW

View the entire Soak and Sleep sale Cyber Monday deals are in full swing now, and if you're shopping around, hoping to take home a bargain for your bedroom or bathroom, it's worth popping over to the Soak and Sleep Black Friday weekend sale where there's a selection of offers and bundles available on bedding, towels and more while stocks last.

T3
Birchbox Black Friday weekend beauty box mega deal: TEN beauty products for ONLY £5!

View the Birchbox Black Friday two beauty boxes for £5 View the entire Birchbox Black Friday sale View the Birchbox Black Friday gift subscriptions sale Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals aren't just for nabbing discount Echo devices and cheap electric toothbrushes: now that the Birchbox Black Friday sale is live, this is also a good time to save money on one of the world's best beauty box subscriptions, plus snap-up half-price beauty kits and deals on top beauty brands.

Editing: examples of content strategised, commissioned and edited for digital/print

T3
GoPro Hero 8 Black review: price, release date and our verdict

I headed up the GoPro Hero 8 Black release coverage for T3, beginning with a No 1-ranking Hero 8 rumours hub, followed by a series of new stories and this review, which ranked directly behind GoPro's official Hero 8 Black page upon the action cam's release

T3
Surfers Against Sewage CEO Hugo Tagholm reveals his top eco-friendly surfing kit

Surfers Against Sewage are doing incredible work raising awareness of ocean plastic and other forms of pollution, so it was a real honour to arrange this interview with Hugo for T3. It was also a great opportunity for a budding writer (Esther) to get some editorial experience under her belt. And of course it serves as excellent supporting content for T3's surfing-related buyer's guides

Acoustic (issue 132)
Acoustic

I was Acting Editor on Acoustic magazine for issues 130, 131 and 132, and had a ball each month working on this title. The team was small but expert, and Acoustic had a great reputation in the music instrument industry. It's a real shame this mag has since closed, but during its tenure Acoustic made a big difference in raising the profile of younger singer-songwriters, as well as expanding the reach of more established artists such as Jason Isbell (pictured).

Future Plc
Home Studio Handbook: Expert Edition

I've edited quite a few bookazines for Future's Music division (the home of my first real publishing job), including this expert guide to recording music at home

T3
Survival skills and gadgets 101: learn how to survive in the wilderness

For this one, I worked with the Beyonk marketing team to create a feature that would appear firstly in print, then live on the website. We sent along one of our most experienced outdoors journalists, Mark Mayne, and kitted him out with a slew of top tech to help him survive the great outdoors (otherwise known as Dartmoor)

T3
GoPro Hero 8 Black vs DJI Osmo Action: which action camera is right for you?

If you're confused about whether to buy the GoPro Hero 8 Black or the other big name in the action camera arena this year, the DJI Osmo Action, you're not alone. On the surface it can seem a little confusing, so it really boils down to why you're buying an action cam (so the main activity you'll be using it for) and your budget.

T3
Smart home and homewares section

For T3 magazine, I edited the smart home and homewares section of the magazine. Each month this included rounded up the latest in smart home tech, as well as curating beautiful items to furnish your smarter nest with

T3
Fitness and outdoors content

As well as working on features, I edited the Horizon (lifestyle and new tech) section of T3. This included a monthly page on Fitness and Outdoors tech, clothing and accessories. Here's an example...

T3
Living content

One of my favourite pages to commission – but mainly to write myself as it's so much fun. T3's Living page covers a wide scope, from gardening and smart home tech to more seasonal content such as how to make the perfect festive cocktails, or all the gadgets you need to pull off a show-stopping Christmas lunch

T3
Travel content

And here's an example of the monthly travel page I commission for T3

Guitarist Presents
Guide to Home Recording

Another bookazine I edited, this time aimed squarely at guitarists looking to record their own music at home. Content comprised musical instruments and accessories buyer's guides, as well as home recording hardware and software buying advice, plus artist interviews and tips

T3
The hottest new tech

Each month, T3's Horizon section kicks off with a Top 10 countdown of the hottest new gadgets released that month or coming very soon. This is a fun one to edit, and keeps my finger on the pulse of new releases

Advertorials and supported editorial: examples of commercial writing

T3
Rested

A single page advertorial conceived and written to promoted Rested's range of sleep-engineered beds and accessories. This job included interrogating the client brief and hitting all of the brand's marketing aims in a T3-friendly tone.

T3
Upright Go

A single page advertorial conceived and written to promoted the Upright Go posture tracking and correcting device. This job included interrogating the client brief and hitting all of the brand's marketing aims in a T3-friendly tone.