The Bank Holiday season is fast approaching and, like many people, my thoughts have already turned to a spot of DIY.

The object of my intentions is a bathroom I just cannot live with any more. I decided to put the challenge to the internet.

My quest began at Homebase - really a cyber replica of the real store. The buying guides gave some great advice on choosing the right paint, tiles, flooring, and decorating tools, allowing me to proceed confidently on to the product sections.

The paint department carried more than 1,000 different paints, including most of the leading brands in literally hundreds of colours. The paint-search function directed you according to the surface you are painting, any brand preferences, the desired finish (vinyl, matt, etc.), colours and price range.

The colour swatches were on the small side but you could order a match pot or two to make sure.

The tile section is equally comprehensive with a huge choice of shapes, sizes, colours and patterns, including some really groovy platinum-effect borders and tinted glass tiles and assorted shades of grouting.

The images could be a little sharper, which would give that extra bit of reassurance when making a purchase.

I found flooring of all types, every decorating tool imaginable and a good choice of taps to give my old suite a new lease of life. Whatever I choose, I will definitely be following their indispensable How To guides very closely.

The B&Q site offered broadly the same service and product range, again very professionally presented and accessible to the clueless as well as the seasoned expert.

Plumb World offered some gorgeous Art Deco-style taps and there were also antique, traditional, lever action and economy ranges.

Bathroom Express offered whirlpool and spa kits to fit your existing bath and stunning taps and accessories, including brightly-painted designer loo seats from France and Italy.

- Susan Rice www. homebase .co.uk www. diy.com www.plumb world.co.uk www.bathroom express. co.uk