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When people think of household appliances they often picture fridges, washers, or ovens — the big players. But have you ever paused to think about the small gadgets and fittings hiding behind the scenes? Those tiny items, from wall sockets to UV sterilisers and alarm components, quietly keep a home safe, clean, and fully functional. In this guide we'll explore the best “other” household appliances you can buy in the UK, spotlight specialist stores like Expert Electrical and Ebebek, and point to mainstream retailers where you can compare prices and features.
“Other” household appliances covers a surprisingly wide range: electrical fittings, security devices, sterilising units, alarm kits, transformers, and media outlets, to name a few. These are the parts that don’t always steal the spotlight but are essential to the day-to-day comfort and safety of any home. Think of them as the small but mighty cogs in a household machine — without them, things get noisy, messy, or unsafe.
A neat faceplate can refresh a room without a full rewiring job. The Hamilton Verve 1 Gang faceplate is about 2 by 2 inches, making it compact and unobtrusive. If you’re upgrading décor or changing modules, opt for a faceplate that matches your switch modules and comes with good fixing points. Specialist retailers and electrical wholesalers stock matching modules if you want a uniform look throughout the home.
PIR (passive infrared) sensors are great for effortless lighting control, and a well-designed bezel like the Kosnic satin chrome option keeps the sensor looking smart on the wall or ceiling. When choosing bezels, think about finish, dust resistance, and whether it fits standard-sized PIR modules. A satin chrome bezel often offers a premium look without clashing with modern fixtures.
Media sockets don’t have to be an eyesore. The Click Deco twin non-isolated coaxial outlet with a black nickel insert blends function with style, offering a discreet way to connect TV and radio feeds. If you’re setting up a media wall, pick faceplates designed to accept in-wall cable routing and that match your other switchgear for a clean finish.
Transformers like the Chint NDK-150 — rated at about 150 VA — are useful for low-voltage lighting or control circuits. They’re the unsung heroes behind doorbells, low-voltage LED strips, and some security systems. Choose a transformer with the right capacity for your load and allow a safety margin so it’s not running at full tilt continuously; that improves longevity and reduces heat.
External alarm bell boxes are a visual deterrent, and a neat cover like the Texecom Odyssey X1 makes the device weatherproof and tidy. Look for UV-stable plastics and weather seals if the bell box will be exposed to rain and sun. A well-mounted bell box can act like a houseguard — visible, authoritative, and functional.
Assistance and care alarms, such as the ESP toilet alarm kit, are small devices that deliver big peace of mind. These kits are essential for elderly or mobility-impaired users at home, providing quick alerts in emergencies. When selecting an assistance kit, check battery types, mounting options, and whether the alarm integrates with other home alert systems.
For multi-room coverage in a large home or small commercial space, an 8-zone conventional fire alarm kit like the ESP Magduo8bkit is a practical choice. These kits let you segment detection areas for faster identification of an incident. Make sure the kit supports the detectors you need — heat, smoke, or multi-sensor — and that you follow local safety standards when installing.
If you’ve got a dedicated AV setup, the Click Deco Plus 2-aperture media face plate in polished chrome provides a sleek interface for HDMI, coax, or network modules. These plates give a clean, finished look and simplify cable management. Pick plates that match the module shapes you need and consider blanking plates for future-proofing.
UV sterilisers are increasingly popular for baby bottles and small items. The Nuby countertop UV steriliser is compact and easy to use — perfect for parents who want fast, chemical-free sterilisation. If counter space is tight, look for slim units that still fit common bottle sizes and have quick cycle times for efficiency.
Combining UV sterilisation with a drying function, the Vital Baby Nurture Advanced Pro saves time and reduces moisture-related odours. Drying after sterilisation also helps prevent recontamination. When evaluating combined units, check cycle settings, internal capacity, and the ability to adjust for different bottle shapes.
For niche electrical fittings and alarm components, specialist retailers like Expert Electrical are often the best bet. They stock a wider range of faceplates, bezels, transformers, and security kit components. For baby-focused sterilisers, Ebebek and baby retailers are reliable. Mainstream chains such as Currys, Argos, John Lewis, AO.com, and Screwfix also carry overlapping ranges — ideal when you want a one-stop shop or competitive pricing. Comparing between specialist and mainstream outlets helps you balance choice with convenience.
Choosing the right small appliance or fitting involves a few simple checks. Match module sizes and mounting boxes (a 2 x 2-inch faceplate won’t fit a deep module without adapters), confirm electrical ratings, and look for UK standards and certifications. For alarms and safety equipment, pick items with clear compliance to British or European standards. If you’re ever unsure about electrical compatibility or fire safety, a quick chat with a qualified electrician or installer is money well spent.
Small jobs like swapping a faceplate or replacing a media socket are often DIY-friendly for confident homeowners. But anything involving mains wiring, alarm panel wiring, or fixed security installations should usually be left to a professional. Not only is this safer, it often ensures compliance with insurance and safety regulations. Think of a DIY job like trimming hedges — fine for the short term. Rewiring is more like surgery; better to call a surgeon.
Even the smallest components can have an effect on running costs. Choose low-loss transformers, efficient UV sterilisers with short cycle times, and LED-friendly modules to reduce power draw. Over a year, choosing efficient small appliances can shave pennies off power bills that add up into real savings. It’s a bit like choosing a fuel-efficient car for short commutes — the benefits multiply over time.
Here’s a quick rundown of where to look when shopping:
Great for specialist electrical fittings, switchgear, and alarm accessories. Expect a wide range of branded modules and faceplates.
Ideal for baby-focused products like UV sterilisers and combined steriliser-dryers, with a focus on safety features for infants.
Useful for compact steriliser units and larger home electronics; good for comparing mainstream brands with customer reviews.
Convenient for quick purchases and local collection options, with a varied range across baby care and home accessories.
Known for branded items and reliable warranties, often a good place to find high-quality media plates and home gizmos with style credentials.
Strong for appliances and a straightforward online shopping experience; handy for delivery and installation combos.
Handy for electricians and tradespeople — wide selection of transformers, bezels, and alarm kit accessories.
In the kitchen, media outlets and UV sterilisers are useful. Countertop sterilisers fit neatly on the worktop, and neat media plates keep the entertainment corner tidy. Consider heat-resistant bezels and faceplates near cooking areas for longevity.
Alarm and assistance kits are life-changing in bathrooms for those needing extra care. Make sure devices are designed for humid environments and that any electrical fittings have appropriate IP ratings to resist moisture.
Transformers and control modules are often installed near utility spaces. Keep them accessible but away from damp or direct heat sources and ensure ventilation for heat dissipation to extend component life.
A polished chrome media faceplate and a twin coaxial outlet help keep cables tidy and signals strong. Choose plates that match your décor — brushed finishes tend to hide fingerprints better than polished surfaces.
UV sterilisers and combined steriliser-dryers are a nursery staple. Position them on a stable countertop and ensure good ventilation when drying. Safety locks and childproof designs can reduce the chance of accidental operation.
When shopping for “other” appliances, remember that price often reflects build quality and certification. A cheap faceplate might save you a few pounds now but could look ragged sooner. For alarm systems and assistance kits, invest in reputable brands and certified devices — the peace of mind is worth the extra cost. Price comparison across specialist and mainstream retailers often uncovers discounts or multi-buy offers that increase value.
Routine checks help everything from transformers to UV sterilisers last longer. For electrical fittings, ensure screws remain tight and faces are free of dust and grease. Sterilisers benefit from occasional internal wipes and descaling if used with hard tap water. Treat small appliances like pets — with regular care they stay healthy and happy for years.
It’s easy to overlook the modest hardware and compact machines that keep a home running smoothly. From a polished faceplate that completes a décor scheme to a UV steriliser that keeps your baby’s bottles clean, these items add functionality and comfort that matter every day. Shop smart by comparing specialist shops like Expert Electrical for electrical kit and Ebebek for baby products, while using mainstream retailers to cross-check price and availability. Small investments in the right devices pay off in convenience, safety, and a tidier home.
Conclusion: Investing time in selecting the right “other” household appliances gives you durability, safety, and style. Whether you’re updating switchgear, fitting an assistance alarm, or picking a UV steriliser, a careful choice now will save hassle and restore order in the long run. Happy shopping — and enjoy the little upgrades that make a house feel more like home.
| Household Appliances - Other | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Click Deco 13a Fused 'ingot' Connection Unit With Flex Outlet & Neon Pearl Nickel Insert White | £ 8,54 | |
| Chint Ndk-150 Transformer 150va | £ 40,88 | |
| Nuby Countertop Uv Steriliser | £ 99,99 | |
| Vital Baby Nurture Advanced Pro Uv Steriliser & Dryer - White | £ 129,99 | |
| Esp Magduo8bkit 8 Zone 2 Wire Conventional Fire Alarm Kit | £ 756,32 | |
| Solar Power Station 80w | £ 859,99 |
