Tom May

Tom May

Tom May is a freelance writer and editor specialising in tech, design and sleep products. Over the years he's tested a number of mattresses, duvets and pillows, and as a back pain sufferer, has a keen interest in finding ones that offer maximum support. Plus, in running a successful Airbnb business, sleep hygiene and providing the right bedding for guests has become a big part of his day-to-day life. He is author of Great TED Talks: Creativity, published by Pavilion Books.

Articles by: Tom May

Dyson V8 vacuum cleaner in use

How to clean a Dyson cordless vacuum

By Tom May published

Follow these simple tips to keep your Dyson cordless vacuum clean, and help maintain its effectiveness and extend its lifespan.

Dyson vacuum (left) and Tineco wet floor cleaner (right)

Dyson vs Tineco: which makes the better vacuum cleaners?

By Tom May published

Dyson and Tineco are both popular vacuum cleaner brands, with plenty to offer. We explore which one is right for you.

Dyson V15 Detect vs V15 Detect Absolute cordless vacuums, in handheld mode

Dyson V15 Detect vs V15 Detect Absolute: what's the difference?

By Tom May published

Not clear on the difference between the Dyson V15 Detect and V15 Detect Absolute vacuum cleaners? We're here to help.

Shark Stratos Cordless vacuum

The best vacuum for pet hair 2024: keep fur and dander under control

By Tom May last updated

Keep your home fur-free with the best vacuums for pet hair

best cheap vacuum

The best cheap vacuum 2024: clean up without getting cleaned out

By Tom May last updated

Want powerful cleaning on a budget? Here are the best cheap vacuums that don't skimp on performance.

Shark Flexbreeze pedestal fan and Dreo Pilot Max tower fan

Pedestal fan vs tower fan: what's the difference?

By Tom May published

Both can help cool you down, but how do they differ and which should you buy? Read on to find out.

Fan vs air conditioner

Fan vs air conditioner: what's the difference, and which should you choose?

By Tom May published

Both can keep you cool in hot weather, so how do you decide?

Shark Handheld Cordless Vacuum against a green and blue background

The best handheld vacuum 2024: compact powerhouses for quick clean-ups

By Tom May published

Make light work of everyday messes with one of the best handheld vacuums on sale today.

Man lying face down on a bed with fan pointed in his direction

Can fans cool a room? The answer might surprise you

By Tom May published

When you run a fan, the room gets cooler, right? Not exactly.

Dyson V8 against an orange and blue background

The best vacuum for carpet 2024: powerful suction for deep cleaning

By Tom May published

Keep your home spotless, with minimal effort, by using the best vacuum for carpet.

The Dreo PolyFan 704S in a living room

How to clean a fan: a step-by-step guide to cleaning any type of fan

By Tom May published

Cleaning tips to keep your fans running smoothly and efficiently, whether you have a pedestal, tower or ceiling fan.

The Shark Detect Pro Cordless vacuum in action

What are the disadvantages of a cordless vacuum cleaner?

By Tom May published

Cordless vacuum cleaners may be convenient, but they come with drawbacks too. Check our list before you commit!

Using the Shark Bagless Cylinder Pet Vacuum CZ250UKT on a rug

How many watts of power is good for a vacuum cleaner?

By Tom May published

We explain what wattage means and why it's worth looking at when you choose a vacuum.

Woman vacuuming a rug in her living room

15 places in your home that you should be vacuuming, but probably aren't

By Tom May published

Pay attention to these spots to protect your health

shark stratos with full dust cup

What are the disadvantages of a bagless vacuum cleaner?

By Tom May published

No more messing about with vacuum bags: hooray! But there are also some drawbacks to a bagless vaccum cleaner.

A vacuum cleaner head running across a purple carpet

How do I tell how much suction a vacuum cleaner has?

By Tom May published

There are two measurements for suction power. We explain what they are, and how to find them for a specific vacuum.

A person fixing a vacuum cleaner at home

Why is my vacuum cleaner not vacuuming?

By Tom May published

Don't panic if your vacuum cleaner isn't picking up; here are seven things to try so you can get it back in business.

A collection of old vacuum cleaners

How to recycle a vacuum cleaner

By Tom May published

Don't contribute to landfill! Here's the responsible way to recycle a vacuum cleaner, on both sides of the Atlantic

Man taping up packing box to return a mattress to Amazon

How to return a mattress to Amazon

By Tom May published

Understanding how to return a mattress to Amazon is easier than you might think.

Close up shot of wild bear's face

What are sleep chronotypes and which is yours?

By Tom May published

Are you a wolf, bear, dolphin or lion?

Woman sleeping in bed

How to use white noise to sleep better

By Tom May published

White noise for sleeping? It's not as daft as it sounds.

Closeup of mattress

How to recycle a mattress: put your old bed to best use

By Tom May published

Don't contribute to landfill: help save the planet with these 6 easy ways to recycle a mattress.

Woman in bed wearing sleep mask

What are the benefits of sleep masks? We asked the experts

By Tom May published

Get better quality rest by using a sleep mask; we explain how to choose the right one for you.

A person sitting on the edge of a bed, holding their neck and back as if in pain

What’s the right mattress firmness for back pain?

By Tom May published

Could a softer or firmer mattress help your spine? We asked experts for their advice.

A person waking up happy in the morning with the sun shining on their face. A badge in the corner says 'TechRadar Sleep Week 2023'

How to wake up early without feeling tired

By Tom May published

Early starts don't have to suck! Boost your energy levels by following our expert tips.

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