A reverse mortgage can help fund your retirement. CHOICE outlines the risks.
2 Nov 2010 |
Reverse mortgages target homeowners aged 60 and older who want to borrow money against the value of their property.
The cash rate has fallen dramatically, yet banks are failing to pass on the savings to consumers and have hiked up credit card interest rates.
11 Jun 2009 |
At a time when more people are struggling with debt and relying on credit to see them through, banks are nudging up credit card interest rates.
If you lose your job, how will you pay your bills? CHOICE outlines your options.
20 Apr 2009 |
Debt relief companies are reporting extreme cases of consumers carrying up to $400,000 in credit card debt on 50 separate credit cards.
CHOICE crunches the numbers to find the most rewarding cards for frequent flyer, shopping and cash rewards.
19 Mar 2009 |
We analysed 63 reward credit and charge cards, looking at frequent flyer points, shopping vouchers and cash rewards.
Credit protection insurance makes an easy dollar for lenders and insurers, but for consumers there are far smarter options.
2 Mar 2009 |
Our investigation concludes that credit protection insurance is a rip-off, as other options give you far better and cheaper cover.
Are tougher economic times squeezing your household budget? Know your options and rights if you're struggling to make mortgage repayments.
3 Feb 2009 |
In this report, we explain a range of options available if you’re experiencing mortgage difficulties.
We explain how to make the most of your credit card and keep out of debt.
20 May 2008 |
At a time when more people are struggling with debt and relying on credit to see them through, banks are nudging up credit card interest rates.
Use our tips to negotiate the mortgage maze.
19 May 2008 |
For some people, flexibility and peace of mind are important, and there are a range of home loan options that offer such benefits.
How to avoid the traps and get the most from a mortgage broker when shopping around for a home loan.
21 Apr 2008 |
If brokers’ advertisements and claims are to be believed, they’re the answer for anyone seeking a loan to suit their circumstances.
The best way to own your home sooner is to get a cheap loan and make higher payments, more often.
1 Mar 2008 |
Extra repayments can have a huge effect. Our case studies were amazed at how modest extra payments could save tens of thousands in interest.
We expose the traps of new types of loans, including 40-year mortgages and no-deposit home loans.
5 Jan 2008 |
With first homes averaging $430,000 and housing affordability at a record low, new types of loan may seem tempting — but are they safe?
Our shadow shop revealed poor advice and information from reverse mortgage sellers.
27 Feb 2007 |
Originally reverse mortgages were sold directly by the lender, but in the last few years mortgage brokers have started to offer these products.
Low-cost deals for those who pay on time, exorbitant interest rates for those who don’t — and a warning about deals to avoid.
3 Nov 2006 |
Store credit deals are lucrative for finance companies and can be profitable for retailers too, but for consumers they’re a real mixed bag.
Choosing the wrong type of credit card can end up costing you a fortune in interest.
15 Nov 2000 |
Some cards charge 18% to 20% annually, while others charge interest rates below 10%, so it's well worth shopping around.
The user may suffer irritation or inflammation to the gums.
18 Jan 2012 |
Nouveau Smiles Pty Ltd is recalling BDazzled Teeth Whitening System due to an excessively high concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the product.
CHOICE investigates why some consumers are going overseas to save money on their dental treatment.
21 Nov 2011 |
Australian consumers are increasingly looking to overseas dental treatment in order to save money on their dental bills.
Some samples of the product have been found to contain bacterial contamination.
8 Nov 2011 |
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) advises that all batches of Savacol Antiseptic Mouth & Throat Rinse alcohol free mouthwash are being recalled.
We look at the pros and cons of DIY kits, kiosk and professional dental whitening services.
31 May 2011 |
With the boom in shopping centre kiosks and beauty salons offering teeth whitening services, we examine the potential risks and benefits.
It’s not just sugary foods and drinks that are bad for your teeth, other nasties contribute to dental decay.
21 Jun 2010 |
CHOICE tested 85 foods and drinks readily available in supermarkets and found that many promoted as healthy snacks are some of the worst offenders.
An electric toothbrush can be a good option for a sometimes tedious chore.
15 Jan 2010 |
It’s been some time since CHOICE trialled electric toothbrushes, so we decided to find out what’s changed on the market. We conducted a user trial of nine new models with a broad range of prices and features.
Think a detox is a quick antidote for a month of excess? We debunk some common health myths.
21 Dec 2009 |
Read these long-held misconceptions about everything from diet and exercise, to air travel and antioxidants.
Our investigation highlights the diagnostic minefield the average dental patient faces and the pluses of dental tourism.
23 Nov 2009 |
Our undercover "patient" visited 14 Sydney dentists. Their wildly different verdicts on her teeth expose flaws in our dental system.
Read the fine print, and you’ll find some "natural" toothpastes may not be as pure as you think.
1 Aug 2009 |
Many of the so-called “natural” brands aren’t so different from conventional toothpaste, yet they’re often far more expensive.
Something's rotten in the state of Australia's health - our teeth.
12 Jun 2007 |
Many people are avoiding preventative care and early treatment because they can’t afford dental care, resulting in more serious oral and general health problems — with more extreme treatment and higher costs later on.
Is fluoride good for your teeth, or a slow poison? We look at the most recent evidence.
23 Feb 2007 |
There’s now solid scientific evidence that fluoride added to drinking water helps to protect your teeth from decay.
Hoping for a DIY Hollywood smile? You might be disappointed.
1 Jan 2005 |
Before you buy any whitening product, we’d recommend talking to your dentist about the particular type of stain that affects your teeth, to avoid wasting money.
Can slimming be as easy as popping a pill?
2 May 2011 |
We look at the so-called "active ingredients" in weight loss pills to see if they live up to their claims.
Think a detox is a quick antidote for a month of excess? We debunk some common health myths.
21 Dec 2009 |
Read these long-held misconceptions about everything from diet and exercise, to air travel and antioxidants.
A growing number of pharmacies are getting into the weight-loss business, but how do these diet plans weigh up?
20 Jan 2009 |
Pharmacy diet plans may help to shed extra kilos quickly, but most fail to deal effectively with the complex broader issues around weight loss.
A water filter may improve the taste or smell of your tap water, but be aware of the problems and cost involved.
19 Oct 2008 |
Filtering the water at the tap is one way of removing the taste of additives. CHOICE looks at the pros and cons of purchasing a water filter.
CHOICE’s expert dietitian puts our volunteers' diets to test. Find out how they measured up.
24 Jun 2008 |
The most common problems in our volunteers’ diets were too much salt and not enough calcium, fibre and water.
There’s a lot of misleading information about exercise — we take a look at fitness facts and fictions
2 Sep 2007 |
There are many myths about exercise — fictions which are endlessly perpetuated and validated through sheer repetition.
Can juice from 'super' fruits — goji, noni, mangosteen or açai — really cure cancer?
16 Aug 2007 |
Forget about an orange or apple — distrubtors say if you really want to keep the doctor away, you need to knock back a daily dose of "superfruit".
It's the health tonic of the moment, but where’s the evidence for its benefits?
23 May 2006 |
If you believe the hype, wheatgrass can nourish the blood and detoxify poisons, purify the liver, rebuild the bloodstream and more — all before breakfast.
Can losing weight be as easy as popping the latest pill?
5 Dec 2005 |
If you read the ads and are left with the impression that simply popping a few pills could be the answer to all your weight worries.
Been burning the candle at both ends?
5 Oct 2005 |
A week or two on a detox program won’t absolve you from a year of unhealthy eating, smoking or drinking too much alcohol.
Do you really need to take one?
6 Jan 2005 |
Research shows that a balanced diet is still the best way to get your vitamins and minerals, and that diets high in whole grains, vegetables and fruit reduce the risk of cancers and other diseases.
We’re told to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to stay healthy. But is that really enough? And does it have to be water, or do other fluids count?
30 Sep 2001 |
Thirst is an emergency response — by the time you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.
Are they essential, or just a pricey gimmick?
1 Sep 2011 |
There are plenty of specialist multivitamin on the market for conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Can they be beneficial or are they just a gimmick?
An overwhelming proportion of kids foods are far from healthy.
22 Jun 2011 |
CHOICE compares the nutritional panels of various products to help consumers make more informed choices about foods for their children.
Weight-loss spray still on the market while consumer champ Dr Ken Harvey battles in court.
21 Jun 2011 |
A behind-the-scenes look at the defamation lawsuit by SensaSlim against consumer-health advocate Dr Ken Harvey reveals a deep flaw in TGA regulations.
Can slimming be as easy as popping a pill?
2 May 2011 |
We look at the so-called "active ingredients" in weight loss pills to see if they live up to their claims.
Is your “miracle” weight-loss strategy actually expanding your waistline?
20 Jan 2011 |
CHOICE looks at problematic myths and misconceptions, as identified by our in-house experts and a survey of professionals.
These products come with a ‘healthy’ dose of spin.
7 Jan 2011 |
For drinks that are essentially cordials with added vitamins, “nutrient-enhanced waters” are making a splash.
Australians are consuming up to 10 times the amount of sodium we need for good health.
11 Oct 2010 |
Australia’s salt habit is costing the nation much more than the in-store price tag. But will binning our salt shakers solve the problem?
Essential for children's development and our ongoing brain, heart and joint health. Are you getting enough?
6 Oct 2010 |
Omega-3s in our diet can prevent cardiovascular disease and may even protect against arthritis, mental decline and Alzheimer’s disease.
Do you need one and do they work?
7 Jul 2010 |
One in seven Australian adults suffer from some form of high blood pressure. If you’re one of them, monitoring your condition regularly at home with a blood pressure monitor can be useful.
A huge US survey by our sister organisation reveals six diet and exercise secrets of the slim.
22 Jun 2010 |
Are there key eating and exercise strategies that are trademarks of the slim? Learn the secrets of those who never get fat.
Early testing can help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
25 May 2010 |
If you’re aged over 45, it’s time to get your cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk checked. We outline an action plan for cardiovascular health.
As a last resort, it can be an effective way to drop the life-threatening kilos.
19 Jan 2010 |
Gastric banding is promoted as a safe, easy and effective way for obese people to lose weight. CHOICE investigates the claims.
Body fat scales can be a better indicator of overall health than their conventional cousins. CHOICE weighs up the options.
10 Dec 2009 |
We tested 12 bathroom scales that measure body fat percentage as well as weight. But can they make you appear healthier than you really are?
A few CHOICE buys will give you an effective home gym that costs less than $100.
25 Nov 2009 |
Think you need lots of space and money to set up an effective home gym? CHOICE's shopping list of equipment comes in at about $100.
CHOICE investigates whether our national waistline can benefit from new research on the glycaemic index.
2 Jun 2009 |
Low-GI diets have been shown to help people with diabetes and pre-diabetes, but they may also help those who need to lose weight.
CHOICE compares the most popular dishes and provides healthier, cheaper alternatives.
21 May 2009 |
Although there’s nothing wrong with takeaways occasionally, many contain too much salt and saturated fat for regular eating.
CHOICE investigates why nut allergy rates are now soaring, and what you can do if you think you have an allergy.
24 Mar 2009 |
Australia has one of the highest allergy rates in the world, and the number of people affected is growing at an astonishing rate.
Yoghurt doesn’t have to be loaded with fat to taste deliciously creamy.
24 Jan 2009 |
Are those extra delicious premium brands just as healthy, or do they taste so good because they’re loaded with fat and sugar?
A growing number of pharmacies are getting into the weight-loss business, but how do these diet plans weigh up?
20 Jan 2009 |
Pharmacy diet plans may help to shed extra kilos quickly, but most fail to deal effectively with the complex broader issues around weight loss.
CHOICE’s expert dietitian puts our volunteers' diets to test. Find out how they measured up.
24 Jun 2008 |
The most common problems in our volunteers’ diets were too much salt and not enough calcium, fibre and water.
Which ones pose a health risk?
2 May 2008 |
We look at the latest research into additives that health questions have been raised about - and give CHOICE’s verdict on which ones you’d do best to avoid.
We run through the top five numbers and what you should be aiming for as a healthy adult.
28 Nov 2007 |
There are lots of numbers and measurements used to describe health. We explain what they all mean.
There’s a lot of misleading information about exercise — we take a look at fitness facts and fictions
2 Sep 2007 |
There are many myths about exercise — fictions which are endlessly perpetuated and validated through sheer repetition.
Can juice from 'super' fruits — goji, noni, mangosteen or açai — really cure cancer?
16 Aug 2007 |
Forget about an orange or apple — distrubtors say if you really want to keep the doctor away, you need to knock back a daily dose of "superfruit".
Some low-fat yoghurts have so much sugar they can be more fattening than full-fat.
15 May 2007 |
Lots of yoghurts with a 'lite' or 'low fat' claim contain so much sugar you’d be eating more kilojoules than in a full-fat yoghurt.
Will it really help you lose weight, or protect your teeth?
16 Mar 2007 |
If you drink diet cola our taste test suggests you might enjoy one of the cheaper brands as much as the heavily promoted big names.
CHOICE is concerned the weight loss drug is being sold inappropriately.
14 Feb 2007 |
The National Drugs and Poisons Scheduling Committee has withdrawn permission for Xenical to be advertised directly to consumers. However, it did not change Xenical's status to a S3 'pharmacist only' drug.
Do you really need them?
1 Jul 2006 |
It’s likely only elite athletes really benefit from protein bars and drinks. For the rest of us, they’re just an additional source of kilojoules and little more than an expensive snack.
It's the health tonic of the moment, but where’s the evidence for its benefits?
23 May 2006 |
If you believe the hype, wheatgrass can nourish the blood and detoxify poisons, purify the liver, rebuild the bloodstream and more — all before breakfast.
Can losing weight be as easy as popping the latest pill?
5 Dec 2005 |
If you read the ads and are left with the impression that simply popping a few pills could be the answer to all your weight worries.
The facts on the most common nutritional deficiency in the world and what to do about it.
1 Nov 2005 |
Women of child-bearing age are most at risk of too little iron and there are different types of iron found in food and they are absorbed differently.
Been burning the candle at both ends?
5 Oct 2005 |
A week or two on a detox program won’t absolve you from a year of unhealthy eating, smoking or drinking too much alcohol.
Low-carb processed foods are no healthier than their conventional equivalents — but can cost a lot more.
22 Aug 2005 |
Low-carb versions of processed foods such as pasta certainly have less carbohydrate and usually fewer kilojoules — but are they’re a healthier option.
You could be taking away a lot more than you bargained for.
28 May 2005 |
A coffee-to-go can provide a much needed caffeine fix. While a standard latte or cappuccino may be relatively harmless, some coffee chain drinks can provide a lot more kilojoules, fat and sugar than you might realise.
Keep your bones strong - calcium is a must have.
28 Apr 2005 |
Up to early adulthood your body is building up the calcium in your bones. As you grow older, gradual calcium loss from your bones is inevitable - but there are things you can do to slow it down.
Do you really need to take one?
6 Jan 2005 |
Research shows that a balanced diet is still the best way to get your vitamins and minerals, and that diets high in whole grains, vegetables and fruit reduce the risk of cancers and other diseases.
Quick-fix diets are never the solution to sustainable weight loss. We give you healthy tips to help you lose weight.
15 Nov 2000 |
Coming to grips with your own body and making the best of what you’ve got is a safer bet than yet another failed diet.
When a compact camera just doesn’t satisfy it might be time to think big.
9 Dec 2011 |
CHOICE reviews digital SLRs, and other advanced cameras priced from $449 to $2999.
We compare 94 compact digital cameras to help you find the best one to suit your lifestyle.
25 Nov 2011 |
In our latest digital camera test we review 94 compact digital cameras, priced from $99 to $749.
Gadgets and gizmos always make great presents for the tech-savvy and tech-curious.
23 Nov 2011 |
We round up the best technology buys, from tablets, to televisions, to MP3 players, to eBook readers.
How well do "ready to use" rechargeable AA batteries compare?
23 Sep 2011 |
Our latest test results rate 15 NiMH rechargeable batteries, priced from $14 to $29.
You don't have to pay a lot for high definition video these days.
23 Sep 2011 |
CHOICE's latest pocket camcorder review has test results for 15 models priced from $179 to $499.
Ever wondered what goes on in the lab?
2 Sep 2010 |
To try to keep up with the rapidly evolving digital camera market, CHOICE reports on batches of cameras every couple of months.
These travel tripods are small and light but not so stable.
1 Aug 2009 |
There's nothing quite so disappointing as getting back your travel photos only to find they're all blurred.
A digital camera zoom lens can take your photography to greater heights.
21 Jul 2009 |
If you own a digital SLR camera (DSLR) and want to expand your photographic horizons the next step is to decide on the best lens to complete your kit.
How do your desktop and laptop, printer and digital camera stack up?
13 Jan 2009 |
The results for this year’s reliability survey are in — the good news is there's been an improvement for some products, but there are a few disappointing figures too.
We test a camera that tags your photos with the GPS location as you shoot.
1 Jan 2009 |
We’ve seen devices that show your location as you drive, where you’ve been and how to get somewhere, but what about a product that tags your photos with the location as you take them?
We take a look at the modern day photo album.
7 Nov 2008 |
Designed for the photographer on the go, the Hyperdrive Colorspace is a storage device that's supposed to take the place of a laptop or multiple memory cards.
Tips to improve your digital photos.
25 Jun 2008 |
Maybe you’re not getting the great results the salesperson promised from your new camera. There’s really no secret to taking good photos and the techniques are pretty simple.
Thinking about buying a digital camera? Here's what to look for.
30 Jul 2007 |
Buying a digital camera can be a daunting exercise — there are literally hundreds of models on the market and a bewildering array of specifications and features.
Explore all the digital camera features on this moveable camera.
17 Mar 2005 |
What's a megapixel? What does a USB cable do? We take you through the basics with our interactive visual tool.
Our updated report looks at the latest HD plasma and LCD televisions.
2 Feb 2012 |
CHOICE puts the latest 102-107cm HD plasma and LCD televisions through their paces.
Our testing reveals whether 22 Blu-ray players live up to the hype.
13 Dec 2011 |
Blu-ray players are the next step up from the DVD player, but how effective is the evolution?
CHOICE takes a look at an internet-based alternative to pay TV.
26 Oct 2011 |
FetchTV provides another alternative to cable, with your Internet provider delivering a host of channels and rental movies to your television.
A high-definition set-top box is an inexpensive way to upgrade to digital TV.
13 Oct 2011 |
We put 14 set-top boxes, priced from $80 to $150, through their paces, and find out which ones come out on top.
It's meant to be the 'best sounding TV' ever... but is the cost worth it?
8 Sep 2011 |
The Bose Videowave is indeed a great sounding TV, but the price for good audio and an easy to use system should not be so prohibitive.
Media hubs plug the gap between your TV and your PC
19 Aug 2011 |
With the ability to play music, videos and pictures on your TV and stream directly from the internet, media hubs can be great tools for today's digital age.
How do you know if your TV is digital or analogue?
10 May 2011 |
The government has set aside funds to make sure pensioners don’t get cut off as the analogue TV signal is phased out, but how do you know what kind of set you have?
Large screen HD plasma and LCD televisions on test. Review and compare models to find the best TV.
1 Feb 2011 |
We take the guesswork out of buying the major television brands by putting them through their paces in our specialised laboratories.
What will it mean for you?
8 Oct 2010 |
Your normal analogue TV will go blank if you haven’t invested in a set-top-box or digital ready TV by 2013. So, what is digital TV and why have it?
You can record, store and playback your favourite TV shows and other video.
16 Aug 2010 |
Blu-ray technology increases a DVD recorder's quality and capacity, but not necessarily its convenience.
You can record, store and playback your favourite TV shows and other video.
16 Aug 2010 |
Blu-ray technology increases a DVD recorder's quality and capacity, but not necessarily its convenience.
Electronic program guides (EPGs) are supposed to help Australians record their weekly TV fix, but how reliable are they?
2 May 2010 |
CHOICE explains why electronic program guides fall short of the mark.
Kogan releases a well-priced STB that doubles as a digital video recorder.
16 Mar 2010 |
This set top box (STB) has a USB connection for an external hard drive that converts the STB into a digital video recorder.
This add-on device for PlayStation3 owners has its limitations.
3 Dec 2009 |
The Sony PlayTV struggles to provide an effective two-in-one games console and personal video recorder machine.
TiVo is a new way to record TV. Find out how it performs.
11 Nov 2009 |
TiVo offers a means of recording free-to-air digital TV without having to learn too much about the inner workings of the machine.
Freeview products deliver HD Digital TV, but so do many other non-Freeview branded products.
19 Oct 2009 |
CHOICE looks at Freeview, what it's offering and what it means, as well as what you gain, or lose, when compared to an identical non-Freeview product.
What’s an electronic program guide (EPG) and do you need one?
11 Aug 2009 |
An electronic program guide is just a TV guide by another name. More than that, it's a useful tool for planning and organising your TV watching.
These 66cm televisions were a little disappointing with poor sound and uninspiring pictures.
1 May 2009 |
CHOICE takes the guesswork out of buying the major television brands by putting them through their paces in our specialised laboratories.
Do you really need all the cables the installer is suggesting?
18 Feb 2009 |
How much money should you spend on your home entertainment cables to feel confident about sound and image quality? CHOICE finds out.
High-definition set-top boxes on test – should you buy one?
1 Dec 2008 |
High definition set-top boxes are designed to replace your existing television’s tuner.
They're still on their training wheels, but at around $1,000, you'd expect more.
29 Jan 2008 |
A twin tuner HD personal video recorder can record shows on two different channels at the same time but which one should you buy?
At first glance, the Beyonwiz DP-S1 seems to be an ideal PVR. But there are some issues that make it less than perfect.
4 Jan 2008 |
CHOICE reviews the Beyonwiz personal video recorder.
A high-definition set-top box is an inexpensive way to upgrade to digital TV.
13 Oct 2011 |
We put 14 set-top boxes, priced from $80 to $150, through their paces, and find out which ones come out on top.
Tired of having the TV networks tell you when to watch your favourite programs?
25 May 2011 |
We review eight of the latest DVRs, priced between $199 and $699.
We look at energy savings everyone can make.
30 Mar 2011 |
We've used our CHOICE testing to bring you a comprehensive list of energy-efficient products for your home.
Is the Telstra T-Box a serious alternative to the TiVo? Our techies argue the toss.
7 Dec 2010 |
See our video of these two popular contenders.
While not for everyone, this DVR for Bigpond customers has a lot going for it.
6 Dec 2010 |
The Telstra T-Box is a DVR that integrates with Telstra's internet TV channels. You can also rent, download and watch box office movies.
You can record, store and playback your favourite TV shows and other video.
16 Aug 2010 |
Blu-ray technology increases a DVD recorder's quality and capacity, but not necessarily its convenience.
Electronic program guides (EPGs) are supposed to help Australians record their weekly TV fix, but how reliable are they?
2 May 2010 |
CHOICE explains why electronic program guides fall short of the mark.
Kogan releases a well-priced STB that doubles as a digital video recorder.
16 Mar 2010 |
This set top box (STB) has a USB connection for an external hard drive that converts the STB into a digital video recorder.
A DVD recorder with a 160GB hard drive gives you hundreds of hours of recording capacity.
26 Nov 2009 |
Test results for four DVD/hard disc recorders with a capacity of 160GB, priced from $440 to $659.
TiVo is a new way to record TV. Find out how it performs.
11 Nov 2009 |
TiVo offers a means of recording free-to-air digital TV without having to learn too much about the inner workings of the machine.
Don’t worry too much about picture quality when shopping for a digital camcorder — it’s mainly their sound quality that sets them apart.
1 Jun 2009 |
Whether it’s a holiday or your kids growing up, a digital camcorder can help you preserve your favourite memories in high, never deteriorating quality.
They're still on their training wheels, but at around $1,000, you'd expect more.
29 Jan 2008 |
A twin tuner HD personal video recorder can record shows on two different channels at the same time but which one should you buy?
At first glance, the Beyonwiz DP-S1 seems to be an ideal PVR. But there are some issues that make it less than perfect.
4 Jan 2008 |
CHOICE reviews the Beyonwiz personal video recorder.
Our test rates 50 dishwashers on washing and drying performance, energy and water efficiency.
10 Oct 2011 |
We take the guesswork out of buying the major dishwasher brands by testing them in our specialised independent laboratories.
Unless you wipe your oven clean after each use, you’ll need help with the dreaded job.
21 Jul 2010 |
If you don’t wipe your oven regularly after each use, you’ll need a lot of time or elbow grease to clean it, or a specially formulated oven cleaner.
Tablets are convenient but cost more than double per wash than powders.
2 Jun 2009 |
Since CHOICE's last dishwasher detergent report in Jan 2007, the number of dishwasher detergents sold has risen from 18.7 million to 19.8 million per year, that's an extra 38 million washes.
Searching for a new dishwasher? Consider these factors before buying.
3 Mar 2009 |
A dishwasher can save you hours of slaving over a hot sink and help save the planet too – used properly, dishwashers are generally more water and energy efficient than dishwashing by hand.
Adults might have trouble opening them, but unfortunately kids can get into some ‘child-resistant’ caps.
5 Jul 2008 |
Sadly, child poisoning cases involving household chemicals are far from unusual.
See how your appliances rate for reliability.
25 Aug 2007 |
Based on your responses, the most reliable appliances are digital cameras and televisions, while the machines most likely to need repairs are dishwashers and lawnmowers.
We explore the risks, myths and gap payments of medical imaging.
7 Jul 2011 |
From radiation risks to gap payments, CHOICE explores answers the questions about imaging technologies, including x-rays and CTs.
Protect against diseases and conditions commonly associated with ageing by taking an active role in your health care.
27 Apr 2011 |
The key to independent living and quality of life is good health and it’s never too soon to start thinking about it.
Avoid paying for vaccinations you don't need.
13 Apr 2011 |
If you're travelling off the beaten track, you need the right advice on travel vaccinations.
Do you need one and do they work?
7 Jul 2010 |
One in seven Australian adults suffer from some form of high blood pressure. If you’re one of them, monitoring your condition regularly at home with a blood pressure monitor can be useful.
We look at the major screening programs for bowel, breast and prostate cancer.
31 Mar 2010 |
To help decide which tests are worth taking, it's helpful to understand the criteria the public health system uses to assess possible screening tests. Many tests detect diseases before your symptoms occur.
CHOICE investigates adverse events associated with medication and what can be done to prevent them.
11 Sep 2009 |
Our reliance on medicines has dramatically increased, and mixing them can prove a dangerous cocktail. CHOICE explains who’s at risk and why.
How much influence do drug companies have on what your GP prescribes you?
27 Aug 2008 |
GPs are bombarded with marketing and promotions from drug companies. This can influence their prescribing habits — and this isn’t in the best interest of consumers.
CHOICE calls for greater scrutiny of pharmaceutical marketing, its impact on medical practice and cost pressures on the health system.
11 Jul 2008 |
CHOICE is concerned that some pharmaceutical companies are employing potentially misleading marketing strategies to increase drug sales.
Most people are happy with the results of their laser eye surgery.
3 Apr 2007 |
Since it was first performed in Australia in the early 1990s, laser eye surgery has become very popular, with many thousands each year choosing it to correct their long- or short-sightedness.
Plan ahead for when you can no longer look after yourself.
22 Aug 2006 |
Most of us don’t want to think about nursing home care while we’re still relatively healthy and independent; we tend to leave it until an emergency forces us to face the issue, utterly unprepared.
Looking for doctor right.
6 Feb 2006 |
The relationship you have with your doctor can be one of the most crucial in your life, particularly if you have a chronic condition or develop a serious illness.
The recall is due to inadequate pasteurisation of some bottles, causing fermentation.
4 Nov 2011 |
Charlie's Trading Company Ltd is recalling Phoenix Ginger Beer, Creaming Soda, Cola, Orange Fizz, Sparkling Apple, and Sparkling Blood Orange.
These products come with a ‘healthy’ dose of spin.
7 Jan 2011 |
For drinks that are essentially cordials with added vitamins, “nutrient-enhanced waters” are making a splash.
CHOICE's wine experts serve their verdict on the best wines to buy for the festive season.
13 Oct 2010 |
CHOICE's wine experts rated popular red and white wines and tell you their favourites.
So many milk brands, so much marketing hype. CHOICE shows you where to find the real value.
10 Sep 2009 |
CHOICE has skimmed off the marketing hype and found that generic brands of milk are much the same as the equivalent big national brands.
CHOICE trialled electronic and disposable breathalysers and the results were disturbing.
4 Sep 2009 |
Personal breathalysers give an indication of a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). CHOICE trialled nine priced below $200.
We’ve done the research to guide you through the wine medal jungle.
30 Sep 2008 |
Are all these medals just a marketing ploy? Or are they a genuine indicator of a good quality wine?
CHOICE’s expert tasters found some heavenly dessert wines that don’t cost the earth.
18 Aug 2008 |
The right dessert wine can add that special touch to a dinner party, and leave you with money left over for the perfect dessert to accompany it.
Hot chocolate now promises all manner of sensual delights.
27 May 2008 |
Montezuma, the 16th century ruler of the Aztec empire, is said to have fortified himself by drinking chocolate before visiting his harem. And, according to research, chocolate causes a longer-lasting buzz than kissing.
Sweet, sexy, and deceptively alcoholic. Almost a third of CHOICE’s teenage testers couldn’t detect the alcohol in a Vodka Mudshake.
26 Feb 2008 |
Alcopops are very appealing to younger people, and contribute to underage and binge drinking.
Fancy a coldie? Our expert tasters rate 46 premium beers.
30 Jul 2007 |
Two mainstrem brews included for comparison (Victoria Bitter and Tooheys New) scored higher than plenty of more expensive premium beers.
The choice of milk seems endless. But what's the difference?
28 May 2007 |
Ever wondered what the difference is between full or reduced fat? Or which milk has the most calcium?
Can you rely on a personal breathalyser to tell when you're over the legal limit?
9 Dec 2005 |
While this was a small trial, based on its results we wouldn't recommend buying any of the six tested models.
They're the drink of choice for many children but are they suitable?
9 Jan 2005 |
They’re fizzy drinks with a difference. What most of them in fact do is give you a caffeine fix with plenty of sugar.
We’re told to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to stay healthy. But is that really enough? And does it have to be water, or do other fluids count?
30 Sep 2001 |
Thirst is an emergency response — by the time you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.
CHOICE investigates adverse events associated with medication and what can be done to prevent them.
11 Sep 2009 |
Our reliance on medicines has dramatically increased, and mixing them can prove a dangerous cocktail. CHOICE explains who’s at risk and why.
The Government needs to ensure that consumers can afford to fill their prescriptions.
20 Aug 2009 |
The PBS is a Government scheme which provides Australians with access to affordable medicines. Pharmacists are the big winners from the reforms.
How to save money on your prescription medication.
25 Nov 2008 |
A generic drug is a copy of a branded drug. It's chemically equivalent to its branded counterpart but usually costs less.
How much influence do drug companies have on what your GP prescribes you?
27 Aug 2008 |
GPs are bombarded with marketing and promotions from drug companies. This can influence their prescribing habits — and this isn’t in the best interest of consumers.
CHOICE calls for greater scrutiny of pharmaceutical marketing, its impact on medical practice and cost pressures on the health system.
11 Jul 2008 |
CHOICE is concerned that some pharmaceutical companies are employing potentially misleading marketing strategies to increase drug sales.
Sweet, sexy, and deceptively alcoholic. Almost a third of CHOICE’s teenage testers couldn’t detect the alcohol in a Vodka Mudshake.
26 Feb 2008 |
Alcopops are very appealing to younger people, and contribute to underage and binge drinking.
In the past adverse drug reactions have been reported by doctors. We believe that consumers should be able to report these events themselves.
25 Sep 2007 |
Reporting of adverse events by consumers has resulted in some important changes, including improvements in product labeling.
CHOICE is opposed to the removal of the evergreening provision of the US Fair Trade Agreement.
20 Sep 2007 |
One of the contentious issues surrounding the AUSFTA is access to drugs, aspects of the agreement threaten the viability of the PBS in Australia.
Consumers have a right to know why some drugs are approved and some are not.
9 Jul 2007 |
The Therapeutic Goods Administration do not disclose why certain drugs have been approved and others have not.
Consumers need to be assured that their privacy is protected in pharmacy software.
3 Jul 2007 |
Pharmaceutical company representatives are attempting to extract patient information from pharmacy dispensing software using memory sticks.
This alternative to a tumble dryer evaporates moisture in much the same way as hanging clothes on the line.
17 Jan 2012 |
Many items in today’s wash are not suitable for tumble dryers. This is where the Asko Drying Cabinet DC7573 comes in.
We test 20 dryers, including a gas dryer, condenser and three electric heat pump condenser models.
24 Jan 2011 |
We put the latest dryers through a rigorous six-week test in our labs.
CHOICE finds out the truth behind your drycleaning disasters and your rights when things go wrong.
8 Oct 2010 |
Inaccurate care labels could be at the heart of many drycleaning mishaps.
One of the most expensive brands on test rated worst overall with triallists. So think twice before purchasing your 'salon style' shampoo.
14 Jul 2010 |
Our 41 volunteer testers tried 11 supermarket brands, costing between $5 and $16 per bottle.
Do new technologies such as ceramic and ionic make a difference to the way your hair feels?
2 Jul 2010 |
CHOICE conducted a user trial of 14 hair dryers to find out if a hefty price tag or new technological features make a difference.
A six star energy-efficient dryer is now on the market, but you’ll have to dig deep upfront.
2 Apr 2009 |
Miele claims this technology saves up to 46 percent of energy used in comparable condensor dryers.
A good hair straightener will give you smooth, sleek and dead-straight hair at home, without the expense of professional styling.
27 Nov 2007 |
You can’t change the genes that make your hair straight or curly, but now you can easily wear your wavy mane straight once in a while.
The LG uses more water to dry clothes than to wash them.
8 Jun 2007 |
If you’ve listened to the marketing, you might be thinking the LG Combined Steam Washer and Dryer makes wash day more environmentally friendly.
You could save hundreds of dollars a year. Our top shampoos were all from supermarkets.
29 Jun 2006 |
Over 500 CHOICE Home Testers (80% women and 20% men) each tried out four different shampoos.