Can I Still Contribute to My Pension?

I currently rely on a rental property for my sole monthly income of £1,300, before accounting for any operational costs or repairs. Due to my inability to work, I find myself in my early sixties, renting my living space, and feeling the urgency to secure my financial future. Is it still possible for me to augment my pension? What other options do I have? Name withheld

While many individuals consider their property as a viable substitute for a pension, it is wise to continue contemplating contributions to a retirement savings plan.

Your rental income is limited, making it challenging to estimate the exact amount needed for a comfortable retirement. According to the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA), the basic annual expenditure for a minimum standard of living is approximately £14,400 for a single person and £22,400 for a couple.

Making contributions to a pension whenever you have spare funds or unexpected lump sums is generally beneficial. The government enhances your pension contributions with tax relief. For instance, if you are a basic-rate taxpayer (20%), only £80 needs to be paid into your pension to receive a total contribution of £100, as the government adds £20.

When you mention “topping up a pension,” it’s unclear whether you already have one. If you don’t, think about initiating a personal pension or a self-invested personal pension (SIPP), which allows you complete control over your pension investments.

You will generally need to wait until age 66 to access the state pension, which can enhance your monthly income. The projected full state pension amount for 2025-26 is £230.30 per week, translating to nearly £12,000 annually.

However, not everyone qualifies for the full amount. The state pension you receive depends on your national insurance contributions (NICs) throughout your working life and whether you were “contracted out” of the additional state pension prior to 2016.

If your income—factoring in the state pension—remains low, you may typically be able to apply for pension credit to provide supplemental income. Pension credit in 2025-26 is expected to offer a minimum weekly income of £227.10 for individuals. This benefit can also open doors to additional support, such as the winter fuel payment.

Even if your total income appears to exceed the pension credit threshold, it’s worthwhile to apply. You can submit your application online at gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim, or contact 0800 99 1234.

Paul Davies, Which? expert.

How Can I Prevent Condensation on My MDF Shutters?

I have recently installed new uPVC windows along with MDF shutters. Unfortunately, the uPVC frames and glass are accumulating condensation, resulting in water pooling on the windowsill. This moisture is also reaching the shutter fittings. What steps can I take to prevent damage to the shutters? I’ve already experimented with opening and closing the trickle vent and other common methods to reduce humidity in my home. Thank you. Susan

The main issue here is inadequate ventilation, which causes high humidity levels due to everyday activities like bathing, cooking, drying clothes, and even breathing. While wiping down the windows daily and ensuring that shutters remain clear of wet surfaces may offer temporary relief, a comprehensive ventilation strategy is essential for a long-term solution.

For immediate protection, it’s advisable to keep wiping the windows to avoid water damage and consider placing moisture absorbers on the windowsills. Make sure your shutters aren’t in direct contact with wet areas and utilize your trickle vents effectively.

For a viable long-term remedy, consider installing mechanical extraction systems. This involves fitting humidity-controlled extractor fans in key areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms, and cloakrooms. Opt for models with humidistats that will operate until moisture levels decrease to a range of 45-55% relative humidity (as condensation typically forms at 70% humidity). These fans will directly remove moist air from its source.

Positive input ventilation (PIV) is another option worth evaluating. PIV systems draw filtered air from outside (often through the loft) and create a gentle positive pressure to push stale, humid air out through natural leaks in the building. This system offers continuous background ventilation that complements your extractor fans and will incur running costs of around £40 to £50 annually.

Implementing these mechanical ventilation solutions not only ensures fresh air circulation but also effectively manages humidity levels to protect your new uPVC windows and MDF shutters over the long haul. While trickle vents can be beneficial, they may not fully suffice for modern, airtight homes with uPVC windows; therefore, investing in mechanical ventilation is crucial for proper moisture control.

Editor’s note: A Kärcher window vacuum cleaner can be helpful in managing condensation on your windows.

How Can I Eliminate the Creosote Odor from My Car?

I recently cleared out an old shed, and during transport to the tip, a tin of creosote spilled in my car’s boot. Fortunately, a rubber boot mat contained most of it, but some got onto the upholstered boot lining and flap. I’ve attempted to clean it with carpet cleaner and a steamer; however, the strong smell of creosote remains! Any suggestions for effectively removing this odor would be appreciated. Caroline Spurling

That sounds like a frustrating situation, and I empathize with your troubles. Just when one problem seems resolved, another one arises—something we all hope to circumvent.

While I can’t promise an absolute fix, based on my experience with persistent odors in fabrics, several strategies may prove effective.

I suggest applying a generous layer of baking soda to the affected upholstery. Baking soda is a well-known odor absorber, so ensure that all smelly areas are thoroughly covered. Leave it in place for at least 24 hours, then vacuum it up. This method has yielded positive results for me in removing odors from carpets.

Additionally, consider placing a bag of charcoal in the boot for a couple of weeks. Charcoal is excellent at absorbing airborne smells, and this passive solution requires no extra work once set up.

Some swear by using bowls of white vinegar to neutralize odors, although I have not personally tested this and it may not be practical in a moving vehicle!

Keep in mind that creosote contains potentially harmful chemicals, so ensure proper ventilation before using the car again.

If these methods fail to fully eliminate the odor, it may be time to consult a professional car cleaning service. They possess enzyme-based cleaners specifically designed to tackle stubborn oil-based spills, which could significantly improve your situation. I hope these tips assist in restoring freshness to your vehicle soon.

Adda Birch Reynardson, founder, Adda Home Solutions.

Person sharpening a Japanese knife on a whetstone.

Readers’ Clinic

What is the best knife sharpener, please? Robin Vickery

Minosharp is the foolproof and efficient way to sharpen your Japanese knives. While sharpening on a whetstone looks impressive, I have to admit that I lack the skill to do it well, safely, or stylishly. Rafi Latif, Brussels

For Japanese knives, I recommend using whestones. I have a Shapton ceramic sharpening stone (Orange 1000 grit) which works wonderfully. There are countless helpful video tutorials online, making it a satisfying tool to use. William Leigh

To maintain an edge on my steel knives, I utilize a carving steel, butcher’s steel, or honing rod. By drawing the knife across it several times, you will restore a good sharpness. This shouldn’t be done every time you use the knife but rather when you notice a decline in performance. Check out the instructional videos available on YouTube. It’s best to avoid devices that require dragging the knife through to sharpen, as they may damage the knife by removing too much metal from its cutting edge and harming its profile. Replace the steel when it looks too smooth and loses effectiveness. Peter Cartledge, Shropshire

After spending money on various sharpeners, we can confidently endorse the German Horl. Though it isn’t the cheapest (£159), it is expertly designed and has restored our Global knives to their original sharpness. Just a caution: avoid purchasing cheap imitations as they reportedly have poor longevity. When you factor in the cost of professional sharpening, the Horl is a worthwhile investment. Caroline Newberry

The Chef’s Choice Trizor XV knife sharpener (around £130) is the best kitchen gadget I have purchased—at the age of 78. Jon Macro

Future Inquiry

Could you please provide tips on maintaining towel softness without using a tumble dryer? I live in a region with very hard water, and my towels end up feeling like sandpaper! Ruth Katz, Royston

Send your tips and questions to [email protected]. All advice is offered without responsibility.

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