{"id":24450,"date":"2025-06-18T15:09:44","date_gmt":"2025-06-18T14:09:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/?p=24450"},"modified":"2025-06-18T15:09:44","modified_gmt":"2025-06-18T14:09:44","slug":"repair-is-the-new-replace","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/news\/repair-is-the-new-replace\/","title":{"rendered":"Repair is the new Replace: sustainable ways to fix up your property"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Repair is the new replace. To help save the planet \u2013 and save themselves cash \u2013 more and more people are demanding manufacturers make it easier to mend stuff.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s why this \u2018right to repair\u2019 matters \u2013 plus where you can get information, parts and advice if you\u2019ve got something broken that needs fixing.<\/p>\n<h2>Why repair matters<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24393\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24393\" class=\"wp-image-24393 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1132727213-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"Senior woman fixing a small household appliance at home\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1132727213-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1132727213-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1132727213-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1132727213-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1132727213-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1132727213-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1132727213.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24393\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>William Hobbs, sustainability expert at <a href=\"http:\/\/myjobquote.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">MyJobQuote.co.uk<\/a>, explains, \u201cAlthough about 75% of the materials in household electricals \u2013 metal such as steel etc \u2013 can be recycled, some parts can\u2019t be recycled, or are difficult to recycle without using lots of energy.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-content\" id=\"gdmag-2783715951\" data-cfpa=\"20295\" data-cfpw=\"20295\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper mobile\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline mobile\" data-ad-type=\"primary-mpu\" data-ad-label=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizemapping=\"primary-mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250],[300,600],[320,480]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20295 );<\/script>\n<p>\u201cThat\u2019s why repairing appliances when they break rather than buying new is a good way to reduce waste and lower your carbon footprint.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>This is the reason consumer advocates, environmentalists and keen amateur repairers are fighting for products that are easier to repair.<\/p>\n<p>The idea is consumers will buy less new stuff if they can repair their old electronic goods and household appliances themselves \u2013 or get them repaired more easily.<\/p>\n<p>A culture of repair could mean less waste, and the use of fewer natural resources in the first place: both wins for the planet.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-content-2\" id=\"gdmag-2319691397\" data-cfpa=\"19928\" data-cfpw=\"19928\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><!-- code from Primis - granddesignsmagazine.com -->\r\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\" language=\"javascript\" src=\"https:\/\/live.primis.tech\/live\/liveView.php?s=116493&schain=1.0,1!grv.media,65,1\"><\/script>\r\n<!-- code from Primis --><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 19928 );<\/script>\n<h2>If it\u2019s broke\u2026<\/h2>\n<p>As things stand, getting our possessions fixed isn\u2019t always as easy as it could be\u2026<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ve all been there: an appliance or gadget stops working and we haven\u2019t the faintest idea where to start with a repair.<\/p>\n<p>Has the battery gone or is it something more serious? Could we even physically take the thing apart if we wanted to? Or is it a sealed unit?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/yougov.co.uk\/consumer\/articles\/36727-right-repair-appliances-brits-fix\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">YouGov research<\/a> has shown just how few of us are up for tackling repairs of household goods.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, there\u2019s a million other calls on our time.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-primary-mpu\" id=\"gdmag-3106204974\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<p>So, the easiest and quickest thing to do is buy a new one and enjoy your shiny new \u2018toy\u2019, while \u2013 best-case scenario \u2013 the old kit gets recycled, or \u2013 worst case \u2013 it gets binned and ends up in landfill.<\/p>\n<h2>E-waste<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24462\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24462\" class=\"wp-image-24462 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_732698247-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"worker sorting e waste\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_732698247-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_732698247-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_732698247-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_732698247-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_732698247-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_732698247-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_732698247.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24462\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And this same wasteful cycle is repeated any time something breaks. Which is why, to quote just one damning statistic, the UK has ended up as the world\u2019s second highest generator of electronic waste per person, producing 24kg e-waste per capita in 2022.<\/p>\n<h2>Built-in obsolescence<\/h2>\n<p>Some manufacturers have played a part in this wasteful state of affairs by \u2018designing in obsolescence\u2019, ie they have made products harder to fix \u2013 or even deliberately fast to fail \u2013 to encourage us to purchase again, as a way to boost sales.<\/p>\n<p>There are lots of different ways they can do this: by making it almost impossible to take a product apart and access the working parts \u2013 or even just to change the batteries \u2013 for example.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-in-content-mpu\" id=\"gdmag-1168559452\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<p>Or they can say unauthorised repairs will invalidate the warranty. Or they use impenetrable proprietary software. There are lots of tricks in that particular book.<\/p>\n<h2>History of repair<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24456\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24456\" class=\"wp-image-24456 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_193565486-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"darning clothes\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_193565486-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_193565486-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_193565486-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_193565486-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_193565486-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_193565486-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_193565486.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24456\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>This \u2018built-in obsolescence\u2019 goes back to the middle of the last century when maintenance and repair fell out of favour as Western consumer societies became rich enough to simply dispose of appliances at the first sign of trouble, instead of getting things mended.<\/p>\n<p>Before that, most people weren\u2019t affluent enough to be able to replace possessions each time they broke. Instead, things were repaired \u2013 whether that meant darning clothes or bodging furniture.<\/p>\n<p>Throughout history until very recently, thrifty folk without the cash for repetitive replacement maintained and cared for their possessions to give them a longer life.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-in-content-mpu-2\" id=\"gdmag-4007292282\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<h2>Built-in obsolescence<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24460\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24460\" class=\"wp-image-24460 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1500263645-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"A pile of broken household appliances\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1500263645-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1500263645-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1500263645-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1500263645-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1500263645-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1500263645-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1500263645.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24460\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>But, as advertising and increased prosperity fuelled a consumer boom after the second world war, some companies began to choose built-in obsolescence as a way to stoke and sustain demand.<\/p>\n<p>An American economist Victor Lebow described what was happening at the time like this: \u201cOur enormously productive economy demands that we make consumption our way of life, that we convert the buying and use of goods into rituals, that we seek our spiritual satisfaction, our ego satisfaction, in consumption.\u2026<\/p>\n<p>We need things consumed, burned up, replaced and discarded at an ever-accelerating rate.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>And so built-in obsolescence, new models, and product restyles arrived to fuel demand.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, not all obsolescence is planned. Good old-fashioned entropy \u2013 and the fast pace of technological change \u2013 means that most possessions we\u2019ve had for a while, and used a lot, will stop working at some point, regardless of how well designed they are.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-in-content-mpu-3\" id=\"gdmag-4019620059\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<h2>It\u2019s complicated<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24395\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24395\" class=\"wp-image-24395 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1361056079-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"Male technician repairing laptop at table in service center\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1361056079-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1361056079-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1361056079-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1361056079-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1361056079-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1361056079-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1361056079.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24395\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And it\u2019s not just a simple case of \u2018evil\u2019 corporations with an agenda to thwart repair. The reality is more nuanced.<\/p>\n<p>There are many and varied factors that mitigate against companies producing repairable goods. Jo Barnard, designer at industrial design consultancy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.morrama.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Morrama<\/a>, gives some examples.<\/p>\n<p>She says, \u201cFor so long, as industrial designers, we\u2019ve been designing products to feel impenetrable \u2013 hiding all those fixings because they were seen as \u2018flaws\u2019 in a perfect surface. Now, we\u2019re having to think how can we make those things visible.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt is actually fairly easy technically to make things repairable \u2013 to make the screw fixings visible and so on.<\/p>\n<p>For example, at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.morrama.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Morrama<\/a> we&#8217;ve designed <a href=\"http:\/\/www.kibu.family\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kibu<\/a> a pair of repairable headphones for kids where any part can be easily removed and replaced.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_24463\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24463\" class=\"wp-image-24463 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Kibu-headphones-connect-together-2-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"Kibu repairable headphones \" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Kibu-headphones-connect-together-2-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Kibu-headphones-connect-together-2-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Kibu-headphones-connect-together-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Kibu-headphones-connect-together-2-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Kibu-headphones-connect-together-2-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Kibu-headphones-connect-together-2-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Kibu-headphones-connect-together-2.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24463\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Kibu repairable children&#8217;s headphones<\/p><\/div>\n<p>\u201cThe difficulty is usually not about how to make a product repairable, it&#8217;s about how to create the <em>system<\/em> that allows for that repair.<\/p><div class=\"gdmag-prop-in-content-mpu-4\" id=\"gdmag-1393255654\" data-cfpa=\"20294\" data-cfpw=\"20294\"><div class=\"gdmag-adlabel\">Advertisements<\/div><div class=\"GRVMpuWrapper\"><div class=\"GRVAd inline\" data-ad-type=\"mpu\" data-ad-sizes=\"[[300,250]]\" data-ad-refreshmapping=\"always\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"text\/javascript\">;new advadsCfpAd( 20294 );<\/script>\n<p>For so many products, particularly tech products, companies don&#8217;t encourage repairs because their health and safety teams are too scared by what could go wrong if they let customers just get at it with a screwdriver.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThen the spare parts are another issue: an inventory challenge. Knowing how many parts to order in the first place; then where and how to store them; distribute them; get them out to customers. And so on.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>A lot of it comes down to risk-averse corporate legal teams.<\/p>\n<p>Jo says, \u201cYou can imagine a world where companies could have their own online channels where members of the public could upload user-generated repair content \u2013 crowdsource \u2018how to\u2019 videos and so on.<\/p>\n<p>But legal teams would be frightened of the firms becoming liable; of someone coming along and saying, \u2018You linked me to this YouTube channel, and someone put up this video, and I followed it, and then I electrocuted myself. So now I&#8217;m going to sue you.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n<h2>Toaster still going strong<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24398\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24398\" class=\"wp-image-24398 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Dualit-Classic-4-slot-Polished-Toaster-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"Dualit Classic 4 slot-Polished Toaster\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Dualit-Classic-4-slot-Polished-Toaster-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Dualit-Classic-4-slot-Polished-Toaster-250x187.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Dualit-Classic-4-slot-Polished-Toaster-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Dualit-Classic-4-slot-Polished-Toaster-1536x1151.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Dualit-Classic-4-slot-Polished-Toaster-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Dualit-Classic-4-slot-Polished-Toaster-1200x899.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Dualit-Classic-4-slot-Polished-Toaster.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24398\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Dualit<\/p><\/div>\n<p>None of these barriers to repair are insurmountable with the right attitude.<\/p>\n<p>As Jo says, \u201cIt\u2019s all doable \u2013 and there are some brands that manage to do it really well. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dualit.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8220;Dualit<\/a> is a good example. They&#8217;ve got <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dualit.com\/collections\/spares\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">a lovely spare parts list on their website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMy dad\u2019s Dualit toaster is older than I am and it\u2019s still working well! He has replaced the elements in that toaster a bunch of times over my lifetime. And it&#8217;s still going strong,\u201d she smiles.<\/p>\n<h2>The \u2018right to repair\u2019<\/h2>\n<p>The \u2018right to repair\u2019 movement is attempting to challenge the bad habits of throwaway consumerism \u2013 in both manufacturers and consumers.<\/p>\n<p>The focus is on making spare parts and repair information easily available, so people can either fix products themselves, or take them to independent repair shops.<\/p>\n<p>Jo suggests there are several drivers behind the repair trend: as well as the cost of living and environmental awareness, there\u2019s an increasing willingness to buy second-hand.<\/p>\n<p>The idea that \u2018new to me\u2019 is still new started in the fashion sector but is spreading to other goods.<\/p>\n<p>She says, \u201cWe&#8217;re starting to buy second-hand things more, and to understand that we don&#8217;t need to have brand new all the time. And, in due course, that will translate into repairing things.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2>More repair shops<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24458\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24458\" class=\"wp-image-24458 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1343578234-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"mobile phone being repaired\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1343578234-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1343578234-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1343578234-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1343578234-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1343578234-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1343578234-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1343578234.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24458\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Jo believes a greater willingness to repair will lead to three things:<\/p>\n<p>Firstly, people repairing things themselves. Secondly, a new repair sector will develop.<\/p>\n<p>She says, \u201cRepair shops are becoming more common on the high street.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;People are realising they can take their phone with a smashed screen into a repair shop in the morning, go to work, and pick it up at the end of the day, fixed.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The old idea that you\u2019ve got to send it off for three days and it\u2019s going to cost you hundreds of pounds is rubbish.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2>Second-hand markets<\/h2>\n<p>The third likely effect will be the creation of second-hand markets.<\/p>\n<p>Jo says, \u201cYou\u2019ll also find repair shops and second-hand retailers collecting old items \u2013 that laptop with just one port that&#8217;s broken; the phone with a smashed screen; the toaster where the element&#8217;s gone \u2013 and repairing them for resale.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;A \u2018back market\u2019 in refurbished tech is growing. And I think the same will happen for appliances too. Some manufacturers will begin buying back their own products for refurbishment and resale, too.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cTo facilitate all these things, brands need to move towards using more standardised components.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;And then, aside from personal tech, there&#8217;s no reason why products need to be completely sealed or miniaturised to a crazy extent.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBut these things are all resolvable. With so much of the stuff we use, there&#8217;s just no reason why it shouldn&#8217;t be made repairable.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2>UK regulations<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-24457 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1103252273-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1103252273-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1103252273-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1103252273-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1103252273-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1103252273-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1103252273-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1103252273.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>And, indeed, progress is being made. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislation.gov.uk\/ukdsi\/2021\/9780348222920\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ecodesign and Energy Efficiency<\/a> regulations introduced in 2021 brought in some limited \u2018right to repair\u2019 rules.<\/p>\n<p>Makers and importers of some household appliances \u2013 washing machines, washer driers, dishwashers, fridges, and electronic displays \u2013 now have to make spare parts for their products available for at least ten years after the product has been discontinued.<\/p>\n<p>They must also ensure repairs are possible using commonly available tools, and maintenance and repair information must be made available to professional repairers.<\/p>\n<p>So makers of these products now have spare parts available on their websites, and many have their own networks of authorised repairers.<\/p>\n<p>Campaigners say this doesn\u2019t go far enough though. They would like to see the regulations extended to more products, and the requirement to offer repair information extended to include end-users as well as professionals.<\/p>\n<h2>Human nature<\/h2>\n<p>We must take responsibility as consumers too, though: this is an \u2018us\u2019 thing just as much as a \u2018them\u2019 thing.<\/p>\n<p>We are the ones who choose to keep buying new stuff because it\u2019s easier and more convenient\u2026<\/p>\n<h2>Independent vs authorised repairers<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24394\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24394\" class=\"wp-image-24394 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1246787491-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"Expert Washing Machine Repair Services\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1246787491-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1246787491-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1246787491-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1246787491-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1246787491-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1246787491-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1246787491.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24394\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>To date, it has generally been easier to find parts and repairers for more expensive products \u2013 tech and white goods \u2013 than for small household appliances.<\/p>\n<p>But more and more home appliance makers are making spare parts available too, including companies like Beko, Bosch, Dualit, Dyson, Hoover, Hotpoint, Indesit, Karcher, Neff, Numatic (Henry), Samsung, and Zanussi &#8211; and repairers are starting to reappear having nearly disappeared from our high streets.<\/p>\n<p>William says, \u201cWhen you need an appliance or electrical item repaired, check to see whether it can be repaired through the manufacturer or whether they recommend a repair service.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;If not, look for a local repair company with a good reputation.\u201d<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_24397\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24397\" class=\"wp-image-24397 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2.-Red-Henry-HVR160-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"Henry Hoover\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2.-Red-Henry-HVR160-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2.-Red-Henry-HVR160-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2.-Red-Henry-HVR160-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2.-Red-Henry-HVR160-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2.-Red-Henry-HVR160-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2.-Red-Henry-HVR160-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/2.-Red-Henry-HVR160.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24397\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Parts available: Henry Hoover<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Here are some things to consider when you\u2019re choosing whether to use a brand-authorised repairer or an independent:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Brand-authorised repairer<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Pros:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>genuine parts \u2013 which should ensure compatibility and potentially make for longer-lasting repairs<\/li>\n<li>warranty coverage \u2013 if your appliance is still under warranty, a brand-authorised repair will likely not void it<\/li>\n<li>specialist expertise: brand-authorised technicians are trained on the specific appliances they repair.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>Cons:<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>more expensive \u2013 can be more expensive<\/li>\n<li>limited availability \u2013 may not be available for all brands in all areas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Independent repairer<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Pros:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>cost effective \u2013 independent repairers may offer lower prices for the same repairs<\/li>\n<li>convenience \u2013 may be more readily available and offer faster turnaround times<\/li>\n<li>flexibility \u2013 may be more willing to work with you on repair options and alternative solutions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>Cons:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>part quality \u2013 may use generic or aftermarket parts, which might not be as durable as genuine parts<\/li>\n<li>warranty void? \u2013 repairs by an independent repairer could void your warranty, depending on the specific warranty terms<\/li>\n<li>lack of expertise \u2013 some independent repairers may not have the same level of expertise or training in your appliance as brand-authorised technicians, particularly when it comes to complex repairs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Advice and spares<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-24459 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1404073904-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1404073904-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1404073904-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1404073904-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1404073904-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1404073904-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1404073904-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_1404073904.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, if you\u2019d like to try tackling a repair yourself, there are more and more places online and IRL that you can go to for help, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ifixit.com\/\">ifixit.com<\/a> a one-stop-shop for tech repairs<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.espares.co.uk\/advice\">espares.co.uk<\/a> to buy parts for white goods and appliances and find how-to repair videos and instructions<\/li>\n<li>repair caf\u00e9s<\/li>\n<li>YouTube videos<\/li>\n<li>independent repairer and engineers<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/wiki.restarters.net\/Main_Page\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Restart\u2019s Repair Wiki<\/a> a good place to start full of helpful advice for beginners and general rather than model-specific fixing advice and chat.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>ifixit<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ifixit.com\/\">ifixit.com<\/a> is an online resource where you can search a bank of 120,000 tech repair guides covering 66,000 devices, plus their shop has a range of common parts and tools that you might need.<\/p>\n<h2>espares<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"applewebdata:\/\/54FE1E24-88A8-44C1-80BA-EDD378A61A31\/espares.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">espares<\/a> sells more than a million spare parts for over 500 appliance brands, plus 800 advice articles, 11,000 repair videos and 11,000 product manuals you can download.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/fixpart.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fixpart<\/a> is another website offering millions of spares for household goods.<\/p>\n<h2>Repair caf\u00e9s<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24392\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24392\" class=\"wp-image-24392 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_948365524-700x525.jpeg\" alt=\"Diverse group collaborates at community repair cafe to fix electronics promoting ethical consumption and sustainability\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_948365524-700x525.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_948365524-250x188.jpeg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_948365524-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_948365524-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_948365524-120x90.jpeg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_948365524-1200x900.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/AdobeStock_948365524.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24392\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image credit: Adobe Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p>William recommends, \u201cTo save money when you\u2019re getting small items repaired, it might be worth looking to see if there\u2019s a community repair caf\u00e9 in your area.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Volunteer run, these can help you learn how to fix items like coffee makers, bikes, laptops, clothes and furniture.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>These local community get-togethers with a purpose \u2013 run by keen DIYers and engineers motivated by green principles \u2013 can be a great place to get advice on DIY repairs.<\/p>\n<p>Some 37,000 repairs were made at repair caf\u00e9s around the world last year, and many towns in the UK now have their own where you can take your broken stuff to get a repair or expert advice on a fix.<\/p>\n<h2>Find your nearest repair caf\u00e9<\/h2>\n<p>The Community Repair Network is an umbrella body for groups organising repair cafes.<\/p>\n<p>It maintains <a href=\"https:\/\/communityrepairnetwork.org.uk\/find\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">a list of repair caf\u00e9s across the country<\/a> where you can look for your nearest.<\/p>\n<h2>Saving money<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24400\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24400\" class=\"wp-image-24400 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Meaco_Feb2025-111-700x525.jpg\" alt=\"Meaco Sefte portable cooling fan\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Meaco_Feb2025-111-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Meaco_Feb2025-111-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Meaco_Feb2025-111-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Meaco_Feb2025-111-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Meaco_Feb2025-111-120x90.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Meaco_Feb2025-111-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Meaco_Feb2025-111.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24400\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Meaco&#8217;s new Sefte cooling fan has a removable and replaceable battery<\/p><\/div>\n<p>And, of course, if you do manage to repair something, the benefits aren\u2019t just environmental.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll save money \u2013 and gain a great sense of satisfaction.<\/p>\n<h2>Conscious consumerism<\/h2>\n<p>For things to change further, we\u2019ll also need to be more considered in our choice of appliances in the first place; and think long-term and investigate repairability, rather than just letting ourselves be dazzled by the big brands\u2019 latest models.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you prefer to blame it on human nature or on capitalism, our desire for shiny new goods means we are highly susceptible to built-in obsolesce of a psychological kind.<\/p>\n<p>We love to be seen with the latest gadgets and possessions \u2013 as status symbols. And that desire is impossible to legislate away. But you can learn to think before you buy\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Repairable products can be more expensive than basic models \u2013 but this has to be set against the saving on replacement costs.<\/p>\n<p>Similarly, repairable products often don\u2019t look as sleek, slim and shiny as big-brand kit.<\/p>\n<h2>Repairability ratings<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24447\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24447\" class=\"wp-image-24447 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Series-2-KIN96NSE0G-Integrated-6040-Fridge-Freezer-899-8757872-700x525.png\" alt=\"A Bosch fridge freezer\" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Series-2-KIN96NSE0G-Integrated-6040-Fridge-Freezer-899-8757872-700x525.png 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Series-2-KIN96NSE0G-Integrated-6040-Fridge-Freezer-899-8757872-250x188.png 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Series-2-KIN96NSE0G-Integrated-6040-Fridge-Freezer-899-8757872-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Series-2-KIN96NSE0G-Integrated-6040-Fridge-Freezer-899-8757872-1536x1152.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Series-2-KIN96NSE0G-Integrated-6040-Fridge-Freezer-899-8757872-120x90.png 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Series-2-KIN96NSE0G-Integrated-6040-Fridge-Freezer-899-8757872-1200x900.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Series-2-KIN96NSE0G-Integrated-6040-Fridge-Freezer-899-8757872.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24447\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bosch &#8211; parts available. Image credit: Quiet Mark<\/p><\/div>\n<p>When it comes to choosing new products, William says, \u201cIf you\u2019re buying new appliances, look for products that are designed to be repairable and have affordable parts available from the manufacturer.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAs well as checking whether goods are repairable, consider quality: well-made products are less likely to break and should have a longer lifespan.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>If repairability is something you value, you can check out the repairability of products before you buy them using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ifixit.com\/repairability\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ifixit\u2019s repairability ratings<\/a> for phones, tablets, ear buds, laptops, e-readers, smart watches, and mini PCs.<\/p>\n<p>Repairability ratings for white goods are on the horizon, too.<\/p>\n<p>France has its own Repairability Index rating system \u2013 the first in the world. And the EU looks may follow its lead.<\/p>\n<h2>Unintended consequences<\/h2>\n<p>So far so good, all this sounds great. But, as with all legislation, there is a danger of unintended consequences from right-to-repair legislation\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Some <a href=\"https:\/\/hbr.org\/2023\/01\/research-the-unintended-consequences-of-right-to-repair-laws\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">researchers recently looked at the possible outcomes of forcing manufacturers to make their products repairable<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>They found possible unintended outcomes of right-to-repair legislation could include the manufacturers of cheap goods reducing the price and durability of their products to maintain sales; and manufacturers of more expensive goods bundling free repair in with purchase price, and passing the cost of this on to consumers.<\/p>\n<p>Another unintended consequence could be prolonging the lives of energy-guzzling, inefficient products\u2026<\/p>\n<p>They envisage a scenario where right-to-repair legislation could create \u201ca \u2018lose-lose-lose\u2019 situation that compromises manufacturer profit, reduces consumer surplus, and exacerbates the environmental impact despite repair being made easier and more affordable.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>None of which means repairability isn\u2019t a sensible sustainability goal, it just suggests there aren\u2019t necessarily <em>legislative<\/em> \u2018easy fixes\u2019\u2026<\/p>\n<h2>Other ways to encourage repair<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_24448\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24448\" class=\"wp-image-24448 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Tassimo-TAS1107-Style-Cream-Hot-Drinks-Machine-106.99-8757847-700x525.png\" alt=\"A Bosch Tassimo coffee machine \" width=\"700\" height=\"525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Tassimo-TAS1107-Style-Cream-Hot-Drinks-Machine-106.99-8757847-700x525.png 700w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Tassimo-TAS1107-Style-Cream-Hot-Drinks-Machine-106.99-8757847-250x188.png 250w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Tassimo-TAS1107-Style-Cream-Hot-Drinks-Machine-106.99-8757847-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Tassimo-TAS1107-Style-Cream-Hot-Drinks-Machine-106.99-8757847-1536x1153.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Tassimo-TAS1107-Style-Cream-Hot-Drinks-Machine-106.99-8757847-120x90.png 120w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Tassimo-TAS1107-Style-Cream-Hot-Drinks-Machine-106.99-8757847-1200x901.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Quiet-Mark-UK-Bosch-Tassimo-TAS1107-Style-Cream-Hot-Drinks-Machine-106.99-8757847.png 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24448\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bosch Tassimo &#8211; parts available<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Jo points out there are other ways product designers could encourage repairs.<\/p>\n<p>She says, \u201cOne simple thing you could do would be to ship products with the back off.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;So, when you bought a toaster, say, it would come with the shell off, so that you could see all the bits and bobs inside.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Then the last thing that you\u2019d have to do before you could use it would be to put that piece on and close it up.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;That way, you\u2019d know that that comes off, and you know that you can get access to all those things.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2>Appliance e-logbooks<\/h2>\n<p>She continues, \u201cAnother thing I\u2019d like to see is QR codes you could stick onto appliances, which link to a very simple website that is effectively an electronic version of a car logbook but for appliances.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Users could upload information to build up a body of repair knowledge.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Whether it\u2019s through legislation or creative design, with so many of us feeling the pinch these days, the trend for repair looks like it&#8217;s here to stay \u2013 for financial as well as environmental reasons.<\/p>\n<p>One last story from Jo shows why: \u201cMy air fryer stopped working recently.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;When I put the pot in, it wasn&#8217;t registering \u2013 the sensor had gone.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I really wanted to fix it, so I went online and found a great little video made by a member of the public showing how to fix it.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The machine could have been better designed for assembly and disassembly.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;But, regardless, using the video, I was able to fix it. Which meant I didn&#8217;t have to buy a new \u00a3189 air fryer.\u201d<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong>READ MORE:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/news\/nansledan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">What&#8217;s it like to live in Nansledan \u2013 the King&#8217;s village in Cornwall<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/renovate\/aperture_house\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">One Photographer&#8217;s Picture Perfect Renovation<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/renovate\/how-to-make-a-victorian-house-feel-bigger\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to make a Victorian house feel bigger<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Repair is the new replace. To help save the planet \u2013 and save themselves cash \u2013 more and more people are demanding manufacturers make it easier to mend stuff. Here\u2019s why this \u2018right to repair\u2019 matters \u2013 plus where you can get information, parts and advice if you\u2019ve got something broken that needs fixing. Why&#8230; <a class=\"view-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/news\/repair-is-the-new-replace\/\">View Article<\/a>","protected":false},"author":10663,"featured_media":24396,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[463],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-24450","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.3 (Yoast SEO v26.6) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Repair is the new Replace: sustainable ways to fix up your property - Grand Designs Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Why more people are choosing to mend their home appliances and gadgets instead of buying new ones - and where to start on your own repairs\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.granddesignsmagazine.com\/news\/repair-is-the-new-replace\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Repair is the new Replace: sustainable ways to fix up your property\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Why more people are choosing to mend their home appliances and gadgets instead of buying new ones - 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