SHEDS, garages, attics, basements and cupboards under the stairs. If you’re anything like me, they’ll be crammed with unused and unloved household gadgets gathering dust.

The last time I moved house, I uncovered two fondue sets from the 1970s, a disturbing abdominal muscle exerciser and a manky-looking SodaStream drink-maker.

Not to mention a keep-fit video by Nadia Almada (the Portuguese transsexual winner of Big Brother 2004, in case you’d forgotten) and a foot spa.

I blame my penchant for gadgetry on James Bond films, especially if said gizmo is shiny, on springs or makes a nice bleeping noise.

To make matters worse, this weekend sees the London Design Festival exhibition at the Royal College of Art.

Here consumers get a first glimpse at the next generation of unwanted household gadgets.

Among the prototype designs are a garden bench that uses solar cells to light up at night and a smartphone for people with impaired sight.

Other more elaborate gadgets include a fruit bowl that can recharge a mobile phone, a solar cushion and a floating chair.

Great, more clutter to join the graveyard of good intentions that already inhabit the back of my cupboards and wardrobes.

According to a recent poll of pointless household gadgets, the worst offender of them all is the shower radio.

This seemingly useful device was voted the worst due to its tuning and volume problems when wet.

Other so called “labour-saving” gadgets on the list include the battery-powered candle, which made it to second worst, followed by the ingenious electric nail file at third.

My personal favourite, the 1980s SodasStream drink-maker, plus the Teasmaid wrapped up the top five.

Other silly gadgets include pancake makers and fondue sets as well as electric popcorn makers.

The insurance company Sheilas’ Wheels conducted the survey among 3,000 women.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, it found the greatest household gadget ever made is the television.

Eight out of 10 women said they could not live without it. Jacky Brown, spokeswoman for Sheilas’ Wheels home insurance, said: “Women love following fashion and trying out new fads – especially when it comes to time-saving gadgets that can help them to tackle the daily challenge of juggling careers and family life.”

“But many new gizmos that appear incredibly useful at purchase, just end up collecting dust and taking up cupboard space before too long,” she added.

While some gadgets are really useful, this recent poll proves that many of them end up being a waste of money.

Much like that old suit you’ll “squeeze into again one day”, perhaps it’s time to take a trip to the local charity shop or recycling centre.