A few years ago I was browsing the gadgets on offer at a garden centre and came across a Beachwood lemon reamer. I love the feel of wood and as I often squeeze lemons, decided to buy one. I seem to remember it was priced at around £5 and since buying I have seen lemon reamers made of various materials including a cheaper plastic option.

My lemon reamer is a very simple gadget that is both effective and easy to use. It is cone shaped at one end with serrated edges, with a smooth handle at the other end. To squeeze a lemon or orange, first cut the fruit in half and then using a twisting motion push the fruit down to the bottom of the cone. It is really useful for squeezing one or two lemons and saves getting out my juicer.

Unlike my juicer, the reamer is very easy to clean. I wash it using by hand and dry well. This is a small gadget, so can be stored in a drawer, taking up little space, making it ideal for anyone with a small kitchen.

When squeezing citrus fruit you do need to be careful to avoid getting pips in your juice. I was a bit worried that as my reamer is made of wood it would splinter. However, several years non it is as good as new. I would advise you to buy a reamer made of good quality wood if this is your material of choice. I have also seen reamers made of plastic, metal and silicone. Overall this is an excellent little gadget that is well used in my kitchen!