It’s easy to become overwhelmed when preparing for the arrival of your first baby, whether you’re pregnant or adopting a precious little one. While friends and family love to offer unsolicited advice about their must-have gadgets, and you can walk into any store and get lost in its many baby aisles, you might still be wondering what you need.

While the number of items you need to care for your little one is fairly short, there are a ton of helpful tools that will make your life easier. We’ve consulted BestReviews baby and child expert, Dr. Aimee Ketchum, to help us figure out everything first-time parents need to buy and prepare before the baby arrives.

In this article: Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Baby Carrier, Boppy Nursing Pillow And Positioner and iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer.

How to prepare for the arrival of a new baby

Gather baby gear

“Babies seem to require so many accessories, but it can actually be quite simple,” said Ketchum. “There are a lot of extras that take up space and are not necessary for a newborn baby.” Instead of getting overwhelmed, opt for the “less is more” approach, especially during those first few months when your baby isn’t doing much. Then, you can figure out what will make your life easier and the gear your little one will love.

To start, Ketchum said, “The most important things to have on hand before the baby is born besides clothing and diapers are a new car seat, a bedside bassinet, formula and bottles (even if you are planning to breastfeed, a little bit of formula is a good idea in case supplementation is needed) and I recommend a Boppy, a baby carrier and some baby health essentials.”

Stock up on food and essentials

Whether it's making and freezing meals ahead of time, stocking up on toilet paper or ensuring your furry pet has ample food and treats, preparing these essentials will ensure you have everything you need in the first few weeks after bringing your baby home. You can also make a meal train, fill prescriptions or hire a cleaner.

Pack your hospital bag

You don’t know when your baby will be here, so it’s important to be prepared at all times. Pack your hospital bag ahead of time with essentials for both the parents and the baby. Items include disposable diapers, baby wipes, a nursing pillow, a toothbrush and other must-haves.

Best products for first-time parents

Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Baby Carrier

Ketchum recommends a baby carrier to keep your baby close during daily tasks. Babies are often leaning on their heads while in the car seat or crib, so a baby carrier is an excellent alternative to keep pressure off their heads. Plus, they’re great at helping babies develop vision and neck strength to see their world.

Sold by Amazon

Boppy Nursing Pillow and Positioner

From breastfeeding to bottle feeding, a Boppy pillow is a lifesaver for a plethora of tasks throughout a baby’s life, including sitting up as they gain more strength. Ketchum also prefers this pillow to position the baby during tummy time and offer extra support.

Sold by Amazon

iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer

Life as a new parent is hard enough without trying to determine if your little one has a fever. Give yourself peace of mind by keeping this no-touch thermometer on hand. This option is more hygienic, delivers an accurate reading in just one second and can be used without waking your baby.

Sold by Amazon

Ingenuity Boutique Collection Deluxe 5-Speed Portable Baby Swing

While Ketchum doesn’t advise parents to let their infant sleep in a baby swing, she notes that gentle rocking and swinging are helpful for calming and soothing. This model is designed with five swing speeds, sounds and a timer with auto-shutoff.

Sold by Amazon

Mika Micky Baby Bassinet Bedside Sleeper

Ketchum notes that The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep in the same room with parents, but in their own beds. To ease a new parent’s mind and comfort the baby, this bedside sleeper is the ideal solution.

Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out 

• Keep an eye on your little one up to 700 feet away without Wi-Fi or troublesome apps using the Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor.
• Instead of fiddling with formula bottles in the middle of the night, opt for the Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced Wi-Fi Formula Dispenser that automatically makes a warm bottle by using your phone.
• Babies’ skin is sensitive, so the WaterWipes Plastic-Free Original Baby Wipes are fragrance-free, plant-based and made with just two gentle ingredients.
• Not only are the Medela 3-Pack Bottles ideal for making formula bottles, but they’re also compatible with all Medela breast pumps, so you can pump, store and feed your little one with a single bottle.
• The Summer Deluxe Baby Bather can be used in the sink or bathtub and gently cradles your baby in a mesh sling and comfortable headrest.
• In addition to being hypoallergenic and free of bleaching, parabens and latex, Pampers Swaddlers Newborn Diapers are up to 100% leak-proof and feature a gap-free fit.
• Ketchum lists an infant car seat as a must-have for new parents, and the Graco SnugFit 35 Infant Car Seat is safe and comfortable for babies starting at 4 pounds.
• In just three minutes, the Philips Avent Fast Baby Bottle Warmer will warm a 5-ounce bottle of milk to your desired temperature with no hot spots by the touch of a button.
• The Burt's Bees Baby Shampoo and Wash protects your baby’s skin while cleaning it without parabens, phthalates, SLS or petrolatum. 
• With the iRobot Roomba s9+ that comes with automatic dirt disposal and Wi-Fi, your house will stay clean and dust-free while you spend time with your new baby.
• If you can’t function in the morning without a cup of java, consider the Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2 to keep your coffee warm, even if it takes all day to finish your cup.
• The NoseFrida Baby Nasal Aspirator helps you clear your little one’s nose and helps them breathe using clinically proven hygienic filters.
• Instead of standing over the stove all morning, the Dash Rapid Egg Cooker independently cooks hard-boiled eggs, poached eggs, omelets, scrambled eggs and more in just minutes.
• The Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Breast Pump is entirely hands-free, giving you the flexibility and freedom to pump anywhere while completing everyday tasks.
• Not only is the Hatch Rest+ Baby and Kids Sound Machine a soothing sound machine to lull your little one to sleep, it also offers the perfect glow for nighttime feeds.

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Bre Richey writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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For 31 years, Labrador retrievers have been the United States' top dog breed. However, the latest American Kennel Club statistics show French bulldogs have knocked them off their podium.

French bulldogs have been gaining in prevalence for years, but now they're officially America's most popular dog breed. But, what makes these pint-sized pups so in-demand and are there any reasons why they're not the best dog for everyone?

In this article: Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Bed, Nulo Freestyle Small Breed Dog Food and Kong Wobbler Dog Toy.

Why are French bulldogs so popular?

What is it about French bulldogs that have captured the nation's hearts and skyrocketed their popularity? It's impossible to say for sure, but their appearance, while divisive, is seen as adorable by many. Their big heads and upright bat ears are striking and considered by some as the epitome of cute.

They're also small dogs and don't need too much space or exercise to thrive. This makes them more practical for many people to own than bigger dogs, such as the recently usurped Labrador. City-dwellers and people who live in apartments can fulfill their dreams of dog parenthood without moving to a bigger place with a yard.

What's more, Frenchies are known for their affectionate, loving natures, making them great companions. They are sweet and playful with big personalities and are relatively easy to train, which is good news for novice dog owners.

How are the top dog breeds recorded?

Every year, the AKC releases a list of the top dog breeds. This is based on how many puppies have been registered with it in a given year. While most reputable breeders of purebred dogs register their litters with the AKC, registration isn't mandatory, so the rankings aren't definitive. However, it gives people a solid idea of the most popular dogs.

In 2022, Frenchies were the most-registered breed with the AKC, up from the number 2 spot in 2021. The breed has gained a huge amount of popularity in the past decade. Back in 2012, it was only at number 14 on the most popular breeds list, with registrations increasing by over 1,000% since then.

French bulldog controversies

The French bulldog is a brachycephalic breed, meaning it has a short skull, giving it the appearance of having a flattened face. This restricts breathing to the point where the British Veterinary Association has recommended against people buying flat-faced breeds and The Netherlands has totally banned breeding them.

While Frenchies can be fit and healthy, breathing difficulties are a real problem in the breed. Any potential buyers should carefully research breeders and make sure they engage in proper health testing. Or, better yet, adopt a dog instead of buying one.

On top of this, their recent surge in popularity and demand for rare colors encourages unscrupulous breeders who just want to make money fast. This type of breeding rarely leads to anything other than unhealthy, unhappy dogs.

Best products for French bulldogs and other small breeds

Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Bed

This super-plush small dog bed is the perfect place for your compact canine companion to curl up after a tough day of chasing balls and cruising for snacks. The small or medium size is ideal for a Frenchie.

Sold by Amazon

Nulo Freestyle Small Breed Dog Food

Small breed dog food is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of littler canines. This salmon and red lentil recipe is high in meat and low in carbs to help provide small dogs with what they need to stay healthy.

Sold by Amazon

Kong Wobbler Dog Toy

French bulldogs love to play, but you might not always have the time or energy. Luckily, they can play with this toy independently. It holds small treats that your dog can remove by nudging and knocking it. The small size is great for French bulldogs and other small breeds.

Sold by Amazon

Cloud Star Tricky Trainers Dog Treats

Training treats are perfect for small dogs, because they're little and low in calories making it harder to overfeed your pup. These come in cheddar, chicken liver and salmon flavors to impress even picky pooches.

Sold by Amazon

Best products for dogs of every size

ZippyPaws Woodland Friends Burrow Interactive Dog Toy

This interactive dog toy features small plush toys that dogs can remove from a burrow. Not only is it fun to play with, but it also provides mental stimulation to keep boredom at bay. It comes in a range of sizes to suit most dogs. 

Sold by Amazon

Greenies Original Regular Natural Dental Care Dog Treats

These dental care treats are designed for medium dogs, though other sizes are available. Dogs think they're just getting a tasty treat, but they're cleaning their own teeth in the process, so everyone's happy. 

Sold by Amazon

Big Barker Sleek Orthopedic Dog Bed

If you're looking for a dog bed for a large dog (or for several small dogs to share), this one is an excellent choice. It's made from 7 inches of high-quality foam that provides orthopedic support and may help reduce joint pain in dogs. 

Sold by Amazon

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From tiny anoles to iguanas, people keep lizard species of all shapes and sizes as pets. And since we now understand what lizards need to live long, healthy lives, manufacturers have created several nutritious food and treat options for your cold-blooded companion.

Zilla Reptile Food Munchies Omnivore Mix offers a blend of whole veggies and insects, providing great nutrition suitable for a range of lizard species. 

What to know before you buy lizard food and treats

Know your lizard’s natural diet

In order to provide the best diet for your pet, you need to understand what it would naturally consume in the wild. 

• Herbivorous lizards exclusively eat vegetable matter. Iguanas enjoy eating a varied diet of leafy greens, veggies and the occasional fruit treat.
• Carnivorous lizards, such as monitors, are predators that consume meat. Most lizards fall into this category, specifically insectivores that hunt insects and invertebrates. Geckos and chameleons are examples of insectivorous lizards.
• Omnivorous lizards require a diet that includes both prey items and vegetables. Bearded dragons, for example, are omnivores.

Your pet’s habitat

Lizards can't regulate their body temperature and need UV rays from the sun to synthesize vitamins. Indoor pet reptiles are totally reliant on their owners to provide them with enough light in their habitat. Most reptiles don’t have an appetite unless they have a healthy environment. Be sure to research your lizard extensively to create a home for your pet that will keep it healthy and hungry.

Competition among your pets

If you have more than one lizard in a tank, be aware that the most dominant one may prevent your other lizards from eating enough food. If one of your pets is larger or more aggressive than the others, you should feed them all separately to ensure that smaller lizards aren't hungry. 

Live food is often the only option

Predatory lizards such as geckos rarely show interest in freeze-dried crickets or other dead prey items. In many cases, these animals like to hunt live insects. Because of this, these animals cannot be fed a prepared diet. However, you can still dust powder on their prey to provide them with additional nutrition.

What to look for in quality lizard food and treats

Insect ingredients

Insectivorous lizards need a diet that is high in insect protein. You can achieve this by selecting a food that is either completely prey items, such as dried crickets or grasshoppers, or one that has insect protein listed as a top ingredient. 

Vegetable content for vegetarians

Omnivorous and herbivorous lizards should be fed food with quality plant matter as a top component. Look for ingredients such as carrots, dandelion greens and clover.

Quality protein for carnivores

Monitors, skinks and tegus lizards require a meat diet. You can supplement live or freshly-killed prey items with food that is high in whole protein, such as chicken. 

Texture and smell

While this will vary from one lizard’s preference to the next, sometimes all it takes is a change in texture or smell to get your pet to eat prepared food. If freeze-dried insects don’t entice your pet and you prefer not to deal with live bugs, try a canned option. Canned insects provide a smell and texture that is more similar to live prey.

How much you can expect to spend on lizard food and treats

Depending on the size of the container and ingredients, lizard food costs between $10-$20. However, if you feed several lizards, you'll end up saving money by buying in bulk.

Lizard food and treats FAQ

What if my lizard doesn’t eat all of its food?

A. You should remove uneaten food after a couple of hours to prevent any mess or bacterial growth in your pet’s habitat. Live food should be promptly taken out after feeding time to prevent crawling insects from bothering your pet or multiplying in its terrarium.

Can I feed my lizard "people food?"

A. Aside from vegetables and fruit, avoid feeding your pet any "people food." They should only eat food that is specifically formulated for its diet.

Do lizards appreciate treats?

A. Unlike mammals and birds, reptiles don’t typically appreciate treats as a reward. However, the enrichment and stimulation that they get from experiencing a new or rare food item are both nutritionally and physically beneficial.

What are the best lizard food and treats to buy?

Top lizard food and treats

Zilla Reptile Food Munchies Omnivore Mix

What you need to know: This mix is fortified with additional calcium to promote healthy bones.

What you’ll love: With ingredients like dried bok choy, peas and crickets, this food has everything an omnivore needs to live happily. You can add water to this mix to soften it.

What you should consider: Especially picky eaters may reject this food in favor of fresh options.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top lizard food and treats for the money

Fluker's Bearded Dragon Medley 

What you need to know: This mix is great for insectivores or to supplement an omnivore’s diet.

What you’ll love: Made of whole crickets, grasshoppers and mealworms, this medley has no artificial ingredients. While marketed for bearded dragons, these snacks are great for any insectivorous lizard that will eat prepared food.

What you should consider: This medley should only complement a diet already rich in variety. It not be used as a primary food.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Pangea Fruit Mix with Insects Crested Gecko Complete Diet

What you need to know: This insect and fruit medley is a complete diet for Crested Geckos and other fruit-eating lizards.

What you’ll love: Some of the fruits in the mix include banana, apricot, papaya and coconut. Insect meal is still a primary ingredient, so don't worry about protein.

What you should consider: You can't feed this to any non-fruit-eating lizards. Some people found the mixed food has a strong smell.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Derek Walborn writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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Popular culture depicts rabbits enthusiastically nibbling on carrots. But rabbits have sensitive digestive systems that need a proper balance of fiber and nutrition from hay, grasses and green leafy vegetables. Pet owners need to offer their furry friends rabbit food that keeps them healthy and thriving.

Finding the best rabbit food for your pet and budget is an important endeavor that requires sorting through the recipes and nutritional content available on the market. For its high antioxidant content and dental health support, the best rabbit food is Kaytee Forti Diet Pro Health Rabbit Food.

What to know before you buy rabbit food

Are pellets the best form of rabbit food?

Natural food, grass and hay are excellent sources of nutrition for your rabbit, but some pet owners may not have easy access to these items. Compacted hay pellets include the fiber and nutrition your pet needs and are fortified with vitamins and minerals. 

There is another type of packaged rabbit food called muesli. It contains pellets, seeds, dried fruit and other starchy bits. It looks like your rabbit is getting more than regular pellets, but those extras are not nutritious. Rabbits will pick out the extra ingredients first, which quickly fills them and leaves no room for the nutritious pellets. Straight pellets provide the natural goodness rabbits need without unnecessary starches.

What are the best ingredients?

Timothy hay is the best ingredient to look for in rabbit food. Other types of hay can be processed in rabbit food, although alfalfa hay should be avoided. It can also include other grasses and vegetables. Look for rabbit food that doesn't use fillers and avoids common allergens.

How much water does my rabbit need?

Rabbits drink a surprisingly large amount of water each day for their size, similar to the amount consumed by a small dog. Fresh water should be regularly available alongside the rabbit food that you offer. 

What to look for in quality rabbit food

Fiber

Fiber is critical to a rabbit’s health. Hay and grass are excellent sources of fiber. Rabbit food should be 18% fiber at minimum, but higher fiber content is better for adult rabbits.

Dental health

Rabbit food does more than provide nutrition. It helps with dental health too. The crunchy pellets encourage natural chewing, which keeps rabbits’ teeth clean and worn down to a proper length.

Protein

Rabbit food should have a protein content between 12% to 14% to support overall health. Young rabbits under 5 months old should have 16% protein content. Most packaged rabbit food pellets are made with these protein levels at a minimum.

Portion size

An adult rabbit needs between a quarter-cup and half-cup of food each day in addition to hay and vegetables. Many rabbit food manufacturers recommend larger daily portions to sell more food. Consult your veterinarian for the best amount of food for your rabbit. 

How much you can expect to spend on rabbit food

The following prices are based on a 5-pound bag of rabbit food. Some manufacturers offer 10-pound and 25-pound bags. 

• Inexpensive rabbit food is less than $10 per bag but typically has lower-quality ingredients than competitive brands.
• Medium-priced rabbit food costs between $10-$15 per bag with higher quality ingredients.
• Expensive rabbit food is priced between $15-$20 per bag. These include certified organic ingredients.

Rabbit food FAQ

Should I give my rabbit alfalfa hay?

A. Alfalfa hay is not grass but legume hay. It is higher in protein and calcium, which may cause urinary issues for adult rabbits. Over time, alfalfa hay can cause bladder stones. Other hay, such as Timothy hay, should be considered first.

Can my rabbit have treats?

A.  Like most pets, rabbits love sweet treats like fruits and vegetables. Dried fruit without added sugar is an excellent treat option. Limit the number of treats you give to your rabbit because of their sensitive digestive systems.

Is iceberg lettuce a good leafy green for my rabbit?

A. Iceberg lettuce seems like it would be a leafy green that would be good for rabbits. Unfortunately, iceberg lettuce has little nutritional value and will simply fill the rabbit’s stomach, leaving no room for more nutritious food. If you want to feed your rabbit green leafy vegetables similar to iceberg lettuce, try butter lettuce, romaine lettuce or cabbage. 

What is the best rabbit food to buy?

Top rabbit food

Kaytee Forti Diet Pro Health Rabbit Food

What you need to know: Rich in natural antioxidants, this rabbit food supports dental health through natural chewing activity.

What you’ll love: The pieces are large and crunchy to promote healthy teeth. The formula is high in fiber and includes prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health. It comes in a convenient resealable bag.

What you should consider: There were some reports that rabbits only ate the treats in the food mix.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top rabbit food for the money

OxBow Animal Health Organic Bounty Rabbit Food

What you need to know: This affordable rabbit food is formulated in consultation with veterinarians and animal nutritionists.

What you’ll love: Packed with essential vitamins and minerals and high-fiber organic grass hay, this rabbit food promotes digestive health. It contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is free of soy, refined sugar and artificial ingredients.

What you should consider: There were some reports that the food caused diarrhea.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Small Pet Select Rabbit Food Pellets

What you need to know: This nutritious food is high in fiber and sold only online to ensure freshness.

What you’ll love: Made by a family-owned business, this Timothy hay-based rabbit food is full of key nutrients that help rabbits thrive. The formula is low in calories and calcium. It comes with a money-back guarantee.

What you should consider: Some users reported that the supplement causes intestinal gas.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Steve Ganger writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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The common belief is that cats started congregating around grain storage in the Middle East as the full silos attracted rodents. A unique relationship formed from that point, and today there are around 40 distinct breeds. While some still go wandering in the great outdoors, others prefer the comfy life of an indoor cat.

In this article: Garlifden Rabbit-Shaped Cat Bed, BestPet 54-Inch Cat Tree Tower and Bedsure Cat Bed for Indoor Cats.

Make them as comfortable as possible

When felines need to fend for themselves, they employ interesting tactics to get food, water and shelter. Feral and wild cats seek a place to sleep in abandoned buildings or deserted cars, and some even dig shallow holes.

But indoor cats don’t have to rely on their instincts to get some shuteye. Of course, some naughty critters will burrow into clothing or blankets, but that’s mostly just for a bit of fun. It's up to humans to provide indoor cats with comfortable shelter, plenty of food and water, and a few stimulating toys.

The trick for any pet owner is to ensure their beloved companion is always comfortable. Cats sleep about 12 to 16 hours a day, and while the couch or bed is a perfectly good napping spot, they really appreciate a space of their own.

However, before getting a cat home, you must consider a few things. The most important is your cat's size and weight. If it struggles to climb stairs or jump on furniture, it’s best to get a cat home that’s low to the ground. Similarly, if the cat is sensitive to temperature changes, you should invest in a cat home with a built-in heating pad.

But a cat home isn’t just for sleeping. Just like humans who do several activities in their homes (and not just sleep), it is always a good idea for the cat home to have surfaces or attachments for stimulation. This can either be a hanging scratch pad on the side, a sisal rope tower on top or a fluffy toy on a string.

Best indoor cat homes your feline friends will love

Garlifden Rabbit-Shaped Cat Bed for Indoor Cats

This adorable cat home is made to look like a rabbit, complete with furry ears on top. It comes in three sizes, with the largest measuring 15.8 by 16 inches, and it's lined with a soft plush material and ample padding. It has a wide opening, an anti-slip layer on the base and a hanging toy inside.

Sold by Amazon

BestPet 54-Inch Cat Tree Tower

Any cat will absolutely enjoy this multilevel cat home. Standing 54 inches tall, it has two platforms with a cat home on each and three additional sisal rope towers with plush padding on top. There are several hanging toys and many areas for cats to sharpen their nails.

Sold by Amazon

Bedsure Cat Bed for Indoor Cats

Your cat will feel like the king of comfort in this cat home. This 16-inch-square cave has a large opening with a fluffy toy on a string, a moderate-sized scratch pad on the side and a plush surface on top for lounging. The bedding on the inside is faux lambswool, and the cat home folds flat for easy storage.

Sold by Amazon

ASPCA Cardboard Cat Home

This cardboard cat home is a quick solution for creating a comfortable space for your cat. The inside floor is a 17-inch scratch pad, and the cardboard house exterior stands 19 inches tall and 13 inches wide. There are little peephole windows on either side, and the house is easily assembled.

Sold by Amazon

Furhaven Farmhouse Multi-Level Cat Scratcher Hideout

This multilevel cat home, resembling an old farmhouse, is made from sturdy cardboard and easily clips together. There are several large openings and windows for cats to play through, and there's a mouse on a spring rod.

Sold by Amazon

Petmaker Animal Print Cat Bed Cave

Perfect for sleeping the days away, this cozy cat home is lined with plush lambswool that will keep your cats warm in winter. Coming in several designs, the house measures 13 inches tall and 12 inches wide and has a large entrance hole. It's recommended for cats that weigh less than 16 pounds.

Sold by Amazon

Kitty City Large Cat Bed

This large cat home has two surfaces for felines to relax and nap. The main compartment is lined with plush fabric and is 16.5 inches wide and tall. At the top is a comfortable surface with a fleece lining that's machine-washable.

Sold by Amazon

Ramaetam 2-in-1 Indoor Heated Felt Cat Home

This is the best cat home if your feline friend needs a bit more comfort in the winter. The dome-shaped house stands 14 inches high and 15 inches wide and has a built-in heating pad that connects to a main socket. The dome top is removable for when the weather improves and is easily stored away.

Sold by Amazon

Furhaven Large Pet House

This elegant cat home is 25 inches long and 15 inches tall. It resembles a large shoebox, with the opening on the longer side. The walls and roof are made from sturdy fabric-lined wood, and it has a plush cushion on the inside. The roof is removable, and the house can also function as a storage container.

Sold by Amazon

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You can find a variety of excellent celebrity beauty products, including skin care and makeup, at a range of price points, so there's something to suit most budgets. 

In this article: Honest Beauty Honestly Pure Retinyl Serum, Haus Labs The Edge Precision Eyebrow Pencil and Dolly Parton Scent From Above Perfume.

Celebrity-owned beauty brands worth checking out

These beauty brands are all celebrity-owned and produce a range of products worth checking out. 

• Rare Beauty: Launched in 2020, Rare Beauty is the brainchild of Selena Gomez. It sells all kinds of makeup, from concealer and foundation to liquid blush. 
• Flower Beauty: Flower Beauty is an affordable beauty brand brought to you by Drew Barrymore. Since its launch in 2013, it has produced a range of makeup and skin care products. 
• Haus Labs: Lady Gaga's Haus Labs is a vegan cosmetics brand. It focuses on high-performance makeup with impressive pigments and skin care benefits.  
• Fenty Beauty: The extremely popular Fenty Beauty is owned by Rihanna. Products include makeup and skin care. 
• About-Face: Belonging to Halsey, About-Face is a makeup brand focusing on fun and bold products. 
• Honest Beauty: Honest Beauty is owned by Jessica Alba and sells skin care and makeup. 

Celebrity-branded perfumes worth checking out

It's less common for celebrities to own perfume brands, but there are plenty of celebrity-branded perfumes. These are made by existing perfumiers but have celebrity names attached to them. 

• God is a Woman: This scent from Ariana Grande is a fruity and floral perfume that's still surprisingly complex. 
• Scent From Above: Endorsed by Dolly Parton, this perfume is every bit as sweet and floral as you'd expect. 
• Eilish Eau de Parfum: Sweet but warm and spicy, this fragrance from Billie Eilish is great for fans of vanilla perfumes who don't want anything sickly sweet. 
• Fenty Eau de Parfum: Rihanna's Fenty Eau de Parfum is based around warm florals with sweet and spicy notes. 

What to look for in celebrity-owned and celebrity-branded products

Just because a brand is celebrity-owned, it doesn't guarantee the product is of high quality or is the right option for you. 

• Product range: Some brands offer a wider range of products than others. You can find beauty brands that only focus on makeup, while others offer skin care, hair care and more. 
• Cruelty-free: Many big celebrity beauty brands are cruelty-free, meaning the products and their ingredients haven't been tested on animals. 
• Vegan formulas: Some products go a step further and eschew all animal products, which is great for vegan or environmentally conscious consumers. 
• Price point: Some celebrity beauty brands have a high-end price tag, while others are more affordable with grocery-store prices. Although pricier doesn't always mean better, more expensive makeup often uses more pigment and higher-quality pigment, giving you bolder results. 

Best celebrity-owned beauty products and perfumes

Honest Beauty Honestly Pure Retinyl Serum

Jessica Alba's retinyl serum helps refine skin texture and brighten dull skin. The retinyl can reduce the appearance of fine lines while the added hyaluronic acid moisturizes skin and increases elasticity, and the vitamin A exfoliates skin. 

Sold by Ulta Beauty and Amazon

About-Face Brow Artist

Whether you don't leave home without your brows on point or you want to up your eyebrow game, Halsey's brow pencil is ideal. There's an angled gel pencil for buildable color and a brush to help with definition. 

Sold by Ulta Beauty

Flower Beauty Chill Out Hydrating Skin Serum

Thanks to the inclusion of hyaluronic acid and hemp-derived CBD, Drew Barrymore's affordable skin serum has excellent hydrating properties. It's great for stressed-out skin, soothing and balancing it for an all-round healthier appearance. 

Sold by Ulta Beauty

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Powder Foundation

One of the notable features about Rihanna's powder foundation is the massive choice of 50 shades, so there's something to match most skin tones. This foundation offers a medium coverage with a soft matte finish. 

Sold by Sephora and Ulta Beauty

Rare Beauty Magnetic Spirit Eyeshadow Palette

Selena Gomez's eyeshadow palette contains six rich metallic shades that add sparkle to any look. They're ultra-creamy and blendable, making them a pleasure to work with, and have intense pigments, so you don't need to use much for a bold appearance. 

Sold by Sephora

Haus Labs The Edge Precision Eyebrow Pencil

If you're looking for an eyebrow pencil that gives you precise control for a sharp finish, this one from Lady Gaga is perfect. Since it's super fine, you can achieve hairlike strokes, while the included brush helps get the finish just right. 

Sold by Amazon and Sephora

Dolly Parton Scent From Above Perfume

This perfume has notes that include mandarin, blackcurrant and peony blossom with heart notes including jasmine and vanilla orchid and base notes including amber, fir and musk. This makes it a sweet and fruity choice with added layers of complexity, much like Dolly Parton herself. 

Sold by Amazon

Billie Eilish Eilish Eau de Parfum

Heavy on the vanilla, this perfume could have turned out overly sweet or one-note, but the inclusion of musks, woody notes and spicy notes makes it intricately layered. It comes in a striking bottle that will look great on your nightstand or dressing table. 

Sold by Ulta Beauty

Ariana Grande God is a Woman Eau de Parfum

Ariana Grande's fragrance hits you with top notes of juicy pear and ambrette with mid notes of rose and orris and base notes of vanilla and cedar. It's sweet and mildly floral but with woody and herbal notes that add a pleasant touch and keep it from veering into sickly territory. 

Sold by Ulta Beauty

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American Girl is known for making dolls and accessories that celebrate historical periods, which has earned them a spot in the Toy Hall of Fame. But it may shock millennials who grew up playing with dolls from the 1800s or 1940s to learn that the newest additions to the line are ’90s-inspired characters.

If you want your children to experience some of your favorite things from the ’90s, check out the background information for these new American Girl dolls, as well as some other American Girl dolls and accessories you might want to pick up to round out your child’s collection.

In this article: American Girl Truly Me Doll, American Girl WellieWishers Kendall Doll and American Girl WellieWishers Ashlyn Doll.

Who are Isabel and Nicki?

Unlike most of the other historical American Girl doll series, the 1999 era includes two dolls: twins named Isabel and Nicki Hoffman. The sisters are from Seattle, a highly influential location for the music culture of the ’90s. Both dolls are 18 inches, have soft cotton bodies, movable vinyl heads and limbs and brushable hair.

When it comes to their appearance and personalities, though, the sisters are completely different.

Isabel has green eyes and mid-length, layered blonde hair with platinum highlights. She wears a cropped cable-knit sweater with a collared shirt attached, a plaid skirt, knee socks and platform shoes. Isabel prefers preppy fashions and loves dancing, pop music and all things pink and glittery.

On the other hand, Nicki has blue eyes and long brown hair with face-framing blonde highlights. She wears a gray T-shirt with purple piping, a spaghetti strap dress with a star graphic on the front, a plaid flannel shirt tied around her waist, ankle socks and platform sneakers. Nicki loves alternative rock, skateboarding and making zines, a popular hobby in the ’90s.

What accessories are available for Isabel and Nicki?

In addition to their clothing, the Isabel and Nicki American Girl dolls both come with a paperback book that tells their story. You can also purchase an accessory set separately specific to each doll.

Isabel’s set includes a felt beret with mini pins, sunglasses, a beaded necklace, a mini backpack and a scrapbook. Nicki’s accessory set has a baseball hat with mini pins, sunglasses, a ribbon necklace with a yin-yang pendant, a messenger bag and a journal.

If you want other play options for the dolls, American Girl offers additional accessories and playsets for Isabel and Nicki. For example, you can choose from a pet set with a plush kitten named Buffy for Isabel and a plush chocolate lab named Blossom for Nicki; a Pizza Hut-themed set with a mini pizza, a pizza box with the authentic Pizza Hut logo, a red transparent cup, a parmesan shaker and red pepper shaker, a doll-sized paperback book and a replica ’90s BOOK IT! Pin; and other sets, such as pajamas, bedroom accessories, a computer desk and additional outfits.

Currently, the Isabel and Nicki American Girl dolls and accessories are only available on the American Girl website, but other retailers like Amazon should offer them soon.

Best American Girl dolls and accessories

American Girl Truly Me Doll

This 18-inch American Girl doll stands out for her fun, multicolored hair and colorful outfit. She has blue eyes and light skin, with olive undertones that complement her hair’s pastel tones. Her outfit also includes a star-print dress, bomber jacket and glitter sneakers.

Sold by Amazon

American Girl WellieWishers Kendall Doll

Measuring 14.5 inches, this American Girl doll is ideal for children who may be too young for full-size models. Her outfit includes a pink leotard, a light purple skirt and yellow butterfly wings for a playful look. She also comes with bright pink wellie boots.

Sold by Amazon

American Girl WellieWishers Camille Doll

Another 14.5-inch model, this ocean-themed doll has a shiny blue leotard and mermaid foil print skirt with glitter details. She also comes with wellie boots with fish faces and fins and a headband with seashells. Her long blonde hair is perfect for styling, too.

Sold by Amazon

American Girl WellieWishers Ashlyn Doll

This adorable princess-styled doll is another excellent option for younger children. She has freckled cheeks and brown hair that kids can brush and style. Her pink outfit consists of a leotard with printed gold lacing, a detachable glittery skirt, pink and gold boots and a fun tiara.

Sold by Amazon

American Girl WellieWishers Willa Doll

Boasting strawberry blonde pigtails, freckled cheeks and hazel eyes, this American Girl doll has a sweet nature and garden theme. Her outfit includes a coral velour leotard with ruffle sleeves, a multicolored mesh skirt, red wellie boots with ladybug faces and a headband with green leaves attached.

Sold by Amazon

Windolls American Girl Doll Sleeping Bag and Clothes Accessories Set

This fun set includes everything kids need to throw a slumber party for their American Girl dolls. It comes with unicorn pajamas, a sleep mask, pillows and slippers, plus a sleeping bag. It also comes with a matching child-sized sleep mask.

Sold by Amazon

K.T. Fancy American Doll Accessories Travel Play Set

This travel-themed play set contains all the accessories an American Girl doll needs to take a trip. It includes a wheeled suitcase with a telescoping handle, passport, camera, unicorn neck pillow and more. The suitcase is fully functional, too.

Sold by Amazon

Ecore Fun American Dolls Camping Tent Set

American Girl dolls can have plenty of outdoor adventures with this camping playset. It comes with a large tent that can fit four 18-inch dolls and has mesh windows and doors that tie open. It also has a matching sleeping bag, backpack and other accessories. 

Sold by Amazon

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Spring is just around the corner, and so is the time to get outdoors for family fun. From classic games to new favorites to simply exploring the great outdoors in the spring weather, there is plenty to do as the seasons change and days become longer and warmer. 

To give you ideas about awesome outdoor family activities, we sought the advice of BestReviews fitness expert Judd NeSmith. His tips and recommendations will keep your loved ones engaged in exciting family-friendly activities all season long. 

In this article: Spikeball Game Set, Amicoson Pickleball Set and Kan Jam Original Disc Toss Game

Springtime activities BestReviews fitness expert recommends for families

After a long winter, most people can’t wait for spring so they can shed their coats and spend time outdoors. NeSmith said that the season is ideal for exercising outside with the family. “Spring is the perfect time to get the family outside to enjoy warmer weather and pursue activities that are exciting and deliver a healthy dose of exercise,”  he said, recommending two of his favorite family games. “Having the family participate in easy to learn but challenging games like Pickleball or Spikeball can quickly lead to a thrilling yet competitive way to burn some calories. Kids love these games too.”

Togetherness, fun and fitness are key reasons to get outside and be active. But NeSmith said there are options for families that prefer to take it somewhat easier. 

“If your family needs a slightly less vigorous outdoor activity but one that still requires skill and keeping score, I highly recommend Kan Jam. This simple game requires a frisbee and just two cans, but families love it!”

Games that promote skill and friendly competition aren’t the only ways families can stay active together this spring. NeSmith said to take a hike. 

“For the more adventuresome families that like to explore the great outdoors, I always recommend day hikes,” he advised. “Taking the family outside to explore nature is always a rewarding experience and a great way for kids and parents to shut off their electronics and reconnect with each other in a very serene environment.” 

When you hit trails with the kiddos, chances are you’ll have some gear to carry. But this doesn’t have to interfere with the adventure. “To maximize this experience, NeSmith said, the Osprey Daylite pack is the perfect choice for a lightweight backpack that can carry snacks for everyone and other essentials like a first aid kit, maps, sunblock, etc.”

Best outdoor fun products recommended by BestReviews fitness expert

Spikeball Game Set

“Spikeball is easy to learn and fun to play while also providing an awesome opportunity to exercise for the whole family,” said NeSmith of the exciting game that he recommends. “This setup provides everything you need to quickly get the game started, plus it comes in a handy carry bag.”

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

Amicoson Pickleball Set 

You’ve probably heard a lot about this trending game that’s quickly becoming a favorite of those who love to play outdoor family-fun sports. “Pickleball is the most popular family outdoor sport in the country right now and the fastest-growing demographic is kids,” NeSmith explained. “They love the game. It is easy to learn and adults certainly enjoy it too. Amicoson offers two pairs of paddles, eight balls and a convenient carrying bag to help you make getting started easy.”

Sold by Amazon

Kan Jam Original Disc Toss Game

If you are looking for an outdoor game that’s fun and easy, NeSmith suggests Kan Jam. “Families love this unique frisbee game which requires very little equipment and provides an awesome way to exercise. This setup provides everything you need to enjoy this very popular outdoor game.”

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

Osprey Daylite Daypack

Taking a hike with the family requires stashing a few essential items. “Why not take the whole family for a day hike? However, someone needs to carry everyone's snacks, a first aid kit, maps, sunblock, etc., and Osprey makes an award-winning ‘day backpack’ designed especially for outings like this,” NeSmith said, adding that this top-selling model is comfortable, yet spacious enough to fit essential items to keep your family hike fun and safe.

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

BestReviews picks

NeSmith’s favorite products for outdoor fun are sure to bring your family together this season. To help you make the most of the beautiful days and warmer weather, BestReviews staff also picked products for your consideration. 

HydroFlask Wide-Mouth Straw Lid Water Bottle

This water bottle tops our list for its useful features that include a built-in straw, carrying loop and durable stainless steel construction that make it ideal for keeping thirst in check during outdoor activities. We also love that it comes in several colors, so you can choose one for every member of the family. 

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

If you are looking for a classic yard game that the whole family can enjoy, this affordable badminton set is the one to buy. It comes with all of the accessories for friendly competition, including four racquets and a net. 

Sold by Amazon  

Champion Sports Traditional Horseshoe Set

Horseshoes is a great game for staying active and showing off your skills at tossing ringers. The components of this set are made of strong metal that will last through years of backyard competition. A storage case is included. 

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

Fitbit Charge 5 Advanced Fitness and Health Tracker

You can keep track of your family’s fitness progress with this feature-packed tracker. It monitors numerous fitness and health metrics so you and the gang can set goals and stay focused on healthy activities. 

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

Funsparks Jazzminton Paddle Ball Game

It’s easy to keep the family engaged in active play with this paddle ball set that comes with accessories for four players. It includes paddles with handles that are easy to grip, even for youngsters who are learning to play. 

Sold by Amazon  

Park & Sun Sports Spectrum Classic Volleyball Set

This volleyball set will take your backyard family fun day to the next level with action-packed competition. This pro-level set comes with a regulation-sized net, so all the family needs is a volleyball to show off their skills. 

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

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Their vintage design remains popular with many homeowners. There are faucets and showerheads that keep the older vibe alive but incorporate modern plumbing advances. There is a faucet just right for your clawfoot tub.

In this article: My PlumbingStuff Clawfoot Tub Faucet, Barclay 3-Handle Clawfoot Tub Faucet and Kingston Brass Vintage Tub Faucet with Hand Shower.

What are the types of clawfoot tub faucets?

There are three main styles of clawfoot tub faucets based on where the faucet is mounted.

• Wall-mounted faucets are attached to tub's back wall. The typical mount is on 3 3/8-inch centers. Some models come with adjustable centers for wider holes.
• Deck-mounted faucets are secured on the rim of the bathtub.  You can mount on the end or side rim of the tub edge.
• Freestanding faucets are for tubs without any faucet holes. The faucet is mounted from the floor and fits over the edge of the bathtub. 

What are the different faucet finishes?

There are many finishes to choose from for your faucet. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

• Chrome is one of the most popular finishes because it is typically the least expensive and most versatile. It will show fingerprints and water stains over time.
• Polished brass delivers a vintage appearance that is durable and easy to clean, but it can be expensive compared to other finishes.
• Polished nickel is popular due to its shiny look and a color a bit darker than chrome. It is easy to clean but expensive and not available for all faucets.
• Brushed nickel has a soft appearance and is one of the most durable finishes available. It doesn't blend well with stainless steel fixtures though.
• Copper has a bright and warm appearance. It also has antimicrobial characteristics, but it requires a bit more effort for cleaning.
• Satin bronze is smooth and has a gentle color that meshes with a lot of decors. It is easy to clean but can be expensive and harder to find.
• Matte black is an increasingly popular finish, especially when matching cabinets and bathroom fixtures. It doesn't show fingerprints and is durable. It can be hard to find, and it doesn't always match bathroom pieces. 

Do I need a shower head too?

Some faucets come with a handheld shower device. These shower heads are typically used for rinsing off when you are finished bathing or when cleaning the tub. There are some shower heads designed specifically for washing pets too. 

If you want to create an actual showering tub, you will need to look for larger kits that include a wrap-around shower curtain rod and a mountable shower head that is elevated high enough to spray water on a normal size adult. 

Best clawfoot tub faucets

My PlumbingStuff Clawfoot Tub Faucet

This replacement faucet features a stylish polished chrome finish that is rust-resistant. The two-handle design separates hot and cold water along with an ADA-compliant lever.  Ceramic cartridges maintain consistent temperature control.

Sold by Amazon 

Barclay Three-Handle Clawfoot Tub Faucet

This beautiful porcelain faucet had three handles that control water temperature and divert the water flow to the shower.  It has an old-style spigot design with 3 3/8-inch centers and ceramic disc cartridges.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Kingston Brass Vintage Tub Faucet with Hand Shower

This elegant polished chrome faucet features a gooseneck spout attached to a Victorian hand shower. It can be wall mounted or freestanding and meets all lead regulations. 

Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair

Yasinu Floor-Mounted Tub Filler Faucet with Hand Shower

This floor-mounted faucet has a high-arc spout to create plenty of space and an aerator to prevent spraying. The handheld shower is ideal for rinsing. The minimalist look is made from brass and stainless steel. 

Sold by Home Depot

Parlos Waterfall Roman Bathtub Faucet Filler

This solid brass faucet is built to last with a distinctive waterfall spout that eliminates splashing with a smooth fill. The two-handle design is easy to install with all mounting accessories included. 

Sold by Amazon

Wasserrhythm Clawfoot Tub Faucet with Sprayer

This attractive polished chrome faucet and hand shower can be mounted on the tub or on a wall. The Victorian style fits most bathroom decors. It comes with an impressive 10-year manufacturer's warranty.

Sold by Amazon

ProPlus Heavy-Duty Clawfoot Tub Faucet

This polished stainless steel faucet is plated with brass chrome and deck mounted with a single lever diverter.  It requires an easy one-hole installation. 

Sold by Amazon

Aolemi Floor Mount Bathtub Faucet

This stylish floor-mounted faucet and handheld shower stands over 45 inches tall. The 360-degree swivel spout has a 6.7-inch reach, and the hand shower has a 59-inch flexible hose. All installation hardware is included. 

Sold by Amazon

Gotonovo Clawfoot Faucet with Handheld Shower

This beautiful brushed-nickel faucet and handheld shower provide a Victorian look to your bathroom. The waterfall and shower rain options are easy to adjust both flow and temperature. It has an easy two-hole installation.

Sold by Amazon

Pegasus Three-Handle Clawfoot Tub Faucet

This elegant polished brass faucet features a gooseneck spout with three porcelain handles for the shower and two water temperatures. Designed to be wall mounted for an acrylic tub, it comes with reliable ceramic cartridges. 

Sold by Home Depot

WORTH CHECKING OUT

For those looking to add a mounted showerhead to their tub, check out the MyPlumbingStuff Clawfoot Tub Add-a-Shower that stands 5 feet high with a D-style aluminum shower rod. 

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If bumper cars are your child's favorite carnival or boardwalk ride, consider bringing the fun home with you. A small, low-impact bumper car for kids provides spinning, driving and bumping fun all year long. Check out the Bumper Buddy Ride On Electric Bumper Car for a 360-degree bumper car with all the best special features.

What to know before you buy a bumper car for kids

Construction

Most bumper cars for kids are round with a plastic shell and two control knobs for turning. A few bumper cars are shaped like a standard ride-on car with a steering wheel. Both versions have wheels made from plastic, rubber or plastic with a rubber strip down the center. There's a seat belt for safety and a rubber bumper strip around the base to absorb shock.

How it works

The car is electric and rechargeable with a charging cable included. Kids buckle into the car and use the control nobs or steering wheel to move around. The car can turn 360 degrees with a maximum speed of 2 miles per hour. Most cars are designed to accommodate indoor or outdoor use. They can be used on carpet but work best on hardwood or concrete. 

Age range

The typical age range for at-home bumper cars is 1.5 to 8 years old, but as with many ride-on toys, weight is the primary factor. The weight capacity is between 60 to 70 pounds per car and varies from brand to brand. Be sure to check it before you buy a bumper car. 

What to look for in a quality bumper car for kids

Decorations

Some cars come with sticker sets so your child can personalize their own car. Stickers include fun images or letters so your child can put their name across the front or side of the car. If your household has multiple children and you intend to get multiple cars, stickers are a great way to help everyone tell the cars apart.

Remote

Some cars come with a remote. Parents can choose to control all movement with this remote or simply stand by to press stop in case of an emergency. The parental feature is great for younger kids who aren't ready to handle the controls. All remote-controlled cars still have control nobs or a steering wheel for the child to use when you think they're ready. 

Lights and music

A colorful LED strip around the bumper makes the car more colorful and easier to see at night. Bumper cars with sound features use built-in music or are Bluetooth compatible so your child can listen to their favorite playlist while they ride. These extras are especially useful in party or playdate settings where you want to make the experience more festive and more like that at a real amusement park.

Adjustable seat belt

An adjustable seat belt or harness is safe and practical. It keeps your child from falling out as the car spins and accommodates a growing child's size so that the belt is never too snug or too loose. Adjustability is also a great feature if you have two children of different ages sharing the car because it can be changed to fit each one's needs.

How much you can expect to spend on a bumper car for kids

A bumper car for kids usually costs around $160-$250, but a few models cost up to $300. A set of two cars can cost up to $350, which could save money if you intend to buy more than one car. 

Bumper car for kids FAQ

How long does the car take to charge?

A. A car usually takes eight to 12 hours to charge to provide 30 minutes to two hours of continuous use. The first time you charge the car, it might take longer than 12 hours.

Is the remote rechargeable?

A. While electric bumper cars are rechargeable, the remote that comes with them is not. Batteries are required, so check the box to see how many are needed. 

What’s the best bumper car for kids to buy?

Top bumper car for kids

Bumper Buddy Ride-On Electric Bumper Car

What you need to know: Available in blue or pink, this rechargeable bumper car is designed for kids 1.5 to 8 years old and holds up to 45 pounds.

What you’ll love: It features a five-point harness and comes with a remote control. It has two speed settings, plays music and has blinking lights around the bottom and on the sides. It comes with stickers so your child can customize it. The maximum speed is 1.25 miles per hour.

What you should consider: The music is built in and not compatible with Bluetooth.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top bumper car for kids for the money

Tobbi DIY Sticker Race Bumper Car

What you need to know: Available in blue or pink, this rechargeable bumper car is made for kids 3 to 8 years old with a maximum weight capacity of 65 pounds.

What you’ll love: It's durable and easy for kids to control. It works on all kinds of surfaces from carpet to concrete. There are LED lights around the base and it comes with stickers for personalization. It has a maximum speed of 1.86 miles per hour. 

What you should consider: It does not have any music capabilities. There is no remote control for adults.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon 

Worth checking out

Kidzone DIY Sticker Bumper Race Car

What you need to know: Available in nine colors, this rechargeable bumper car is designed for kids 1.5 to 6 years old with a weight capacity of 66 pounds.

What you’ll love: It's durable with an anti-flat tire and a remote control. It has flashing LED lights around the base. Stickers are included so kids can customize the car. 

What you should consider: It does not play music, and the maximum speed is less than 1 mile per hour. The battery drains easily. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Grow lights are the way to provide artificial electric light to stimulate the growth of indoor plants. They are useful in areas that don’t get enough sunlight as well as during the months when sun is available for only a few hours a day. Grow lights are also a great way to get seedlings started under optimum lighting conditions. Properly used, full-spectrum LED grow lights can stimulate your plants to flower.

What to consider before buying a full-spectrum LED grow light

What are LED grow lights?

LED stands for light-emitting diodes — semiconductors that convert electricity into light. 

LED grow lights pros: 

• Highly efficient, needing less energy to generate light. This means lower electric bills and operating costs.
• Cool to the touch. Only about 5% of LED lighting turns to heat.
• Environmentally friendly. There are no toxic components in LED lights.
• Long lifespan. Without heat to break down the lights, LEDs have average operational lifetimes of 50,000 hours.

LED grow light cons:

• Expensive to buy.
• Their blue light can be harmful to the human eye.
• They are directional, meaning they have smaller coverage areas.

What are full-spectrum LED grow lights?

Regular LEDs produce only a single color of light, usually white. Full-spectrum LED grow lights have blue lights that encourage plant growth and red lights that promote flowering. They imitate the natural composition of sunlight, with color temperatures that change with the seasons and from morning to evening. 

How many full-spectrum LED grow lights will I need?

This is one case where more is not better, because too much light can bleach your foliage and burn your plants. Most flowering plants grow their best with 20 to 30 watts of light per square foot. If your plants take up a 3- by 4-foot space, you need 240 to 360 watts of full-spectrum LED grow lights for your plants to grow, thrive and flower.

Coverage

LED grow lights point in only one direction. You can solve this problem by either using reflectors to disperse the light more broadly, by choosing designs with larger coverage areas or by using more grow lights.

Timers

Plants don’t want 24 hours of light per day. They need darkness, too, and different plants have different lighting needs during different times of the year. When you add a timer, you can set the daylight/nighttime cycle your plants will thrive on.

Best full-spectrum LED grow lights

Full-spectrum LED grow lights under $100

Roleadro Full-Spectrum 75-Watt LED Grow Light

This lightweight grow light is easy to set up with the included stainless steel hanging kit. The grid is designed to distribute the light uniformly across the illumination area.

Sold by Amazon

Mars Hydro 300-Watt Full-Spectrum LED Grow Light

The built-in reflector hood disperses light coverage across a 120-degree angle. The lighting adjusts for germination, flowering and boosting yields. This polished aluminum light has an advanced cooling system that keeps it from overheating.

Sold by Amazon

Feel Show Grow Lights for Indoor Plants with Adjustable Tripod

The tripod is a great setup for floor plants because it can be set so the grow lights are as low as 15 or as high as 60 inches above your plants. You can choose from 10 levels of brightness, three spectrum modes and three timing modes. The lights are on four adjustable goosenecks for wider coverage.

Sold by Amazon

Fecida 1,000-Watt Dimmable LED Grow Light

The aluminum case has a built-in quiet fan and a vented LED board for dispersing the heat. The stepless dimmer function works with the turn of a knob you can adjust for your plants’ different growth stages. It comes with a hanging kit and user manual.

Sold by Amazon

Full-spectrum LED grow lights from $100-$200

Phlizon 1200-Watt Full-Spectrum LED Indoor Grow Light

This grow light is a perfect fit for a 3- by 3-foot growing area. Flip the veg switch for blue and white light for seedlings and young growth. Switch to bloom and get red and white light that stimulates flowering. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for hanging heights from 18 to 30 inches above the plant canopy.

Sold by Amazon

Barrina BU 2000 LED Full-Spectrum Grow Light

This grow light dissipates heat with a heat sink that does not need a fan to cool it. The adjustable reflectors direct light more efficiently to illuminate a 4- by 4-foot area. The light switch includes a dimmer knob for adjusting your light intensity.

Sold by Amazon

Barrina Six Pack of Full-Spectrum LED Grow Light Strips 

These 4-foot-long fixtures look a lot like fluorescent shop lights, but they’re 48-inch-long LED grow lights. You get six grow lights, three power cords, five connecting cords and the ability to arrange them as you wish.

Sold by Amazon

Full-spectrum LED grow lights over $200

King LED 4,000-Watt Grow Lights with 10X Optical Condenser

The LEDs produce six colors of light that cover a 39-square-foot growing area. Cooling vents on all sides and built-in mute fans on the back dissipate the heat quickly. This 17-pound polished aluminum light hangs overhead with hooks.

Sold by Amazon

Spider Farmer 450-Watt Full-Spectrum LED Grow Light

This highly energy-efficient grow light covers a  25-square-foot growing area and is ideal for all growing stages. The diode layout delivers even light distribution and the dimming feature is customizable.

Sold by Amazon

Mars Hydro Upgraded 300-Watt LED Growing Lamps

You get 120 degrees of coverage with this 4- by 4-foot light grid that can connect with up to 30 lights for commercial applications. The aluminum deflector spreads the light out and the unit disperses heat quickly and quietly.

Sold by Amazon

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David Allan Van writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Solo Stove has had an impressive run of new products and features over the past several months. The company has added color to its classic models, offered an innovative way to make pizza outdoors, expanded its line of fire pits and created accessories that elevate the user experience. Today, Solo Stove is offering customers a whole new way to fuel their three most popular fire pits: the Ranger, the Bonfire and the Yukon.

In this article: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0, Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 and Solo Stove Yukon 2.0.

What are wood pellets?

Wood pellets are tiny cylindrical-shaped items made of compressed wood fiber. They resemble hamster pellets and are used to start and sustain controlled fires. The fuel source is more eco-friendly than fossil fuels because it's renewable. Wood pellets are also cost-effective to produce and burn hotter and cleaner for longer periods of time.

Solo Stove's new addition to its fire pit family

While pellet grills and pellet stoves have been around for roughly half a century, it's not as common to see fire pits that are fueled by wood pellets. Solo Stove's latest addition, however, is a pellet adapter for its most popular fire pits. While this accessory is currently in the BestReviews Testing Lab for performance evaluation, there are some important aspects that can be shared right now.

How to use the Solo Stove Pellet Adapter

BestReviews has tested Solo Stove's fire pits and found them to be "simply better than a normal fire pit." Now, with the addition of this new accessory, users will have even greater flexibility with fuel types because there's a Solo Stove Pellet Adapter for the company's Ranger, Bonfire and Yukon fire pits.

The pellet adapter provides a smokeless, consistent and maintenance-free fire. All you need to do is add pellets until they're 1 inch below the secondary burn holes on the interior of the fire pit. This will give you a fire that lasts approximately 2 hours. If you'd like to have a shorter burn, add fewer pellets. For reference, the Ranger holds 25 pounds of pellets at capacity, the Bonfire holds 45 pounds of pellets at capacity and the Yukon holds 77 pounds of pellets at capacity.

Expert tip: When choosing pellets for your Solo Stove, remember that hardwood pellets burn for slightly longer, while softwood pellets burn more quickly.

Solo Stove fire pits, pellet adapters and fuel

Solo Stove Ranger 2.0

This portable fire pit is 12.5 inches high, 15 inches in diameter and only weighs 17 pounds (with the stand). It's the most portable option that can be used with a pellet adapter.

Sold by Solo Stove, Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair

Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

This mid-size Solo Stove fire pit is 14 inches high, 19.5 inches in diameter and weighs 21.75 pounds (with the stand). BestReviews tested this model and was pleasantly surprised by its smokeless performance.

Sold by Solo Stove, Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, Home Depot and Wayfair

Solo Stove Yukon 2.0

If you need a large fire pit, the Yukon is what you should get. It's 17 inches high, 27 inches in diameter and weighs 40.35 pounds (with the stand). While this model is portable, it's better suited for backyard enjoyment.

Sold by Solo Stove, Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, Home Depot and Wayfair

Fire Pit Pellet Adapters

This is the brand-new accessory that just came out today. These adapters let you use pellet fuel for your favorite Solo Stove fire pit. 

Sold by Solo Stove

Premium Wood Fuel Pellets

If you'd like to purchase your fuel directly from Solo Stove, these premium wood pellets come in a 10-pound bag. They're manufactured to have a comfortable high-heat burn and produce very little smoke and very little ash. There's a two-bag purchasing minimum.

Sold by Solo Stove

Premium Wood Fuel Pellets (4-Pack)

If you'd like to save a little money, currently, Solo Stove is offering the option of purchasing a four-pack of fuel for less than you would pay when buying bags individually.

Sold by Solo Stove

Tower Patio Heater (Estimated Ship Date: May 22)

This tower heater can keep you warm for up to three hours when the hopper is filled to capacity. The gravity-fed system means no electricity is needed, while the built-in handles and wheels make for easy transport.

Sold by Solo Stove

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Allen Foster writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

As the weather starts hinting at springtime, the urge to get outside and enjoy some fresh air ramps up. Whether you crave a thousand-mile bike ride or simply a stroll through the park, reading the right book can help us appreciate our natural surroundings and inspire us to conserve them. We asked BestReviews book expert Ciera Pasturel for her favorite reads that inspire her to get outside. From memoirs to surreal fiction, these books will transform the way you view our planet and help you plan your next adventure.

In this article: “The Overstory” by Richard Powers, “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer and “The Nature Fix” by Florence Williams.

Environmental writing and eco-fiction

Genre writers face the difficult task of making their imaginary worlds feel believable, but the challenge applies just as strongly to authors writing about the real world. Whether the author wants to convey the majesty of Mount Everest in fiction or the environmental threat to Alaskan salmon in an exposé, the reader wants to feel as if they’re experiencing that place for themselves.

“Books set in nature are written to inspire and open our eyes to the wonders of the world,” Pasturel said. Nature writing, memoirs and eco-fiction often have a common goal: to use scientific data or observation to shape the reader’s perspective on nature in order to inspire involvement and action as well as appreciation.

“Stories with environmental themes provide readers with insight into the wonders of our world,” Pasturel said. “These books both inspire and remind us that our environment is a delicate system that requires protection and care.”

Best fiction books that will inspire you to get outside

“The Overstory” by Richard Powers

Pasturel recommends this 2019 Pulitzer Prize in Fiction winner, which tells the intertwining stories of lives connected to trees, ranging from 19th century New York to the Pacific Northwest’s timber wars. Part work of activism, part love letter to nature, it invites readers to observe, understand and treasure the natural world.

Sold by Amazon

“Life of Pi” by Yann Martel

“This is an exhilarating novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats,” Pasturel said. Winner of the 2002 Man Booker Prize for Fiction, it tells the surreal story of 16-year-old Pi, who survives a shipwreck and finds himself sharing a lifeboat with a fellow survivor: a Bengal tiger.

Sold by Amazon

“Once There Were Wolves” by Charlotte McConaghy

Part eco-fiction, part suspense, this thrilling novel follows twin sisters and scientists who are reintroducing gray wolves to the Scottish Highlands. Pasturel recommends this story for the way it explores both interpersonal relationships and encourages empathy for other people and for nature. 

Sold by Amazon

“A Solitude of Wolverines” by Alice Henderson

Pasturel recommends this series starring Alex Carter, a wildlife biologist who’s dedicated to saving endangered species. Her attempts to study and protect wolverines in hostile Montana are imbued with an extra sense of realism, thanks to Henderson’s career as a wildlife researcher.

Sold by Amazon

Best nonfiction books celebrating the natural world

“Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Viewing the natural world through her lenses as a botanist and an Indigenous woman, Kimmerer shows how life on Earth is interconnected in this book Pasturel calls “not one to miss.” She invites readers to acknowledge the reciprocal relationship between humanity and nature before it’s too late.

Sold by Amazon

“Flight Paths” by Rebecca Heisman

This fascinating new book tells the story of how our understanding of bird migration has evolved, from Aristotle’s theories to contemporary radar. It’ll make you want to join the scores of citizen scientists and bird watchers who help study and conserve our bird populations.

Sold by Amazon

“The Nature Fix” by Florence Williams

Why does being out in nature make us feel better? Williams explores the science behind how nature affects the brain and why it’s vital to have (and use) green spaces in our day-to-day lives.

Sold by Amazon

“Guidebook to Relative Strangers” by Camille T. Dungy

Traveling cross-country isn’t easy. Traveling as a Black mother with a young daughter is even harder. This collection of essays captures Dungy’s experiences as her work took her through the Adirondacks, Maine, Virginia and beyond.

Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

• If you’re looking for inspiration for your next family camping trip, try “Braving It” by James Campbell.
• “A Walk in the Woods” by Bill Bryson humorously recounts the author’s mishaps while hiking the Appalachian Trail.
• In “Kings of the Yukon” by Adam Weymouth, the author’s journey down the Yukon River illuminates the threatened ties between salmon and Indigenous people.
• “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed inspired a generation of women to discover what they were capable of on the Pacific Crest Trail.
• If you know Blair Braverman’s sled dogs from social media, you’ll enjoy her account of how she got started adventure guiding in “Welcome to the Goddamn Ice Cube.”
• “On Trails” by Robert Moor explores the origins and meaning of the paths we take, from trails to freeways.
   

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Laura Duerr writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Grilling is a tried-and-true method of imparting smoky and woody flavors, but you aren’t getting the most from your grill without a flavorizer bar. That’s why Weber grills come with some.

Flavorizer bars sit between the grates and fuel source and catch dripping fat. This does several things. It heats the caught fat into smoke that further flavors your food. It keeps your grill cleaner, which reduces flare-ups. And it helps evenly spread the heat around.

What to know before you buy Weber flavorizer bars

What grill you have

Weber flavorizer bars are made to fit a specific line or lines of Weber grills. If you have a Weber grill, double-check your model number and search for matching bars. If you can’t find matching bars, do your best to get ones that are as close as possible to the bars you need, and it should be OK.

If you don’t have a Weber grill, you should first try to get flavorizer bars that match your grill’s manufacturer. If there aren’t any, keep your search open to any brand instead of just Weber, focusing on finding bars that fit your grill as close as possible.

Size

When shopping for Weber flavorizer bars that aren’t made for your model of grill, focus on the size. A flavorizer bar should fit as snugly as possible in your grill or it won’t be effective. Lengthwise, Weber flavorizer bars typically fall between 15 to 25 inches. Height- and widthwise, they typically fall between 2 to 4 inches.

Quantity

Weber gas grills use several flavorizer bars, so replacements are sold in packs. Most packs contain exactly as many bars are needed to replace every bar, which is usually three or five. There are also packs containing eight, nine, 10 and 12.

Material

Weber flavorizer bars are made of porcelain-enameled steel or stainless steel.

• Porcelain-enameled steel bars are easier to keep clean and cost less. However, the porcelain-enameled coating eventually wears off. This can happen in as soon as a year if you grill regularly and don’t maintain them. Otherwise, they last for roughly two to three years. They also don’t conduct heat as well as stainless steel.
• Stainless steel bars are more durable, typically lasting at least five years even if you grill regularly and don’t do maintenance. If you maintain them, they can last for a decade or more. However, maintenance is difficult, as stainless steel can still stain in extreme environments such as a grill. They’re also more expensive, as much as double the cost of porcelain-enameled steel.

Cleaning process

Weber flavorizer bars are straightforward to clean. Just remove them and give them a good scrub. Use a soft cloth or sponge if they’re porcelain-enameled to avoid damaging the coating or a coarse cleaning brush if they’re stainless steel. You should do this at least once every three uses, but it’s better to clean after each use.

Additionally, never put flavorizer bars in your dishwasher. If there’s gunk that isn’t coming off, soak it overnight in a mixture of hot water and soap and use an appropriate cleaning tool to scrub the now-loosened gunk off. Then dry them and put them back in your grill.

How much you can expect to spend on Weber flavorizer bars

Small quantities of porcelain-enameled steel bars typically cost $40-$75. Larger quantities typically cost $90-$125. The largest quantities and stainless steel bars typically cost $125-$160.

What are the best Weber flavorizer bars to buy?

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 7635

This three-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Spirit 200 (2013 and newer) line of gas grills. They’re porcelain-enameled steel.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 7536

This five-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on several of Weber’s gas grill lines: the Weber 900, Spirit 300 (except for models with a front-mounted control panel), Spirit 700, Genesis Silver B and C, Genesis Gold B and C (2002 and newer) and Genesis Platinum B and C (2005). They’re porcelain-enameled steel.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 65903

This five-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on several of Weber’s gas grill lines: the Genesis Silver B and C, Genesis Gold B and C, and 2007-2012 Spirit E-310, SP-310, EP-310, E-320, SP-320 and EP-320. They’re stainless steel.

Sold by Amazon

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 7534

This five-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Genesis Silver A, Spirit 200 and Spirit 500 gas grill lines. They’re porcelain-enameled steel.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 7636

This five-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Spirit 300 (2013 and newer) line of gas grills. They’re porcelain-enameled steel.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 7539

This five-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Genesis 300 E and S (with right-side control panel) lines of gas grill. They’re porcelain-enameled steel.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 7540

This five-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Genesis 300 (with side-mounted control panel) line of gas grills. They’re stainless steel.

Sold by Amazon

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 7621

This five-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Genesis 300 (with front-mounted control panel) line of gas grills. They’re porcelain-enameled steel.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 65902

This five-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Spirit 500, Spirit 200 and Genesis Silver A lines of gas grill. They’re stainless steel.

Sold by Amazon

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 7620

This five-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Genesis 300 (with front-mounted control panel) line of gas grills. They’re stainless steel.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 67668

This eight-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Summit E and S 400 (2007 to present) line of gas grills. They’re stainless steel.

Sold by Amazon

Weber Replacement Flavorizer Bars 67669

This nine-pack replaces worn and damaged bars on Weber’s Summit E and S 420 (2007-2016) line of gas grills. They’re stainless steel.

Sold by Amazon

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Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

For working people, outdoor enthusiasts and hobbyists who require a single source of light, a headlamp cannot be beat. This hands-free light not only lets you keep on working or playing after the sun goes down, but it also prevents injury due to inadequate lighting. Headlamps can also be used as a distress signal in case of emergency, 

But when it comes to choosing a Coast headlamp or a Diamond headlamp, you may be wondering which one is best. It all boils down to how much light you actually need.  

Headlamp features to consider

When considering which headlamp is best, look at the following features.

• Lumens: The higher the lumen rating, the brighter the light.
• Lighting options: A basic white beam is important, but consider if you’ll need a strobe or red emergency light, too.
• Headlamp design: If you need a headlamp that can be worn over a hard hat and on a bare head, make sure the one you select works in both situations.
• Power source: Headlamps are powered by either disposable batteries or one that is charged with a USB cord. The best headlamps have multiple options for power.
• Comfort: If you’re on an overnight hike or pulling a 12-hour shift, you’ll need a strap that is adjustable and comfortable.
• Run time: You don’t want to run out of power in the middle of your trek. Make sure your headlamp battery can go the distance.

Coast headlamp

Coast has been making quality headlamps for working people since 1919. Their aim is to provide durable products that are sturdy enough to use on an oil rig but practical enough for hobbyists, dog walkers and those who like to spend time outside at night.

Coast headlamp pros

Coast headlamps are durable and well-reviewed by those who own them. The adjustable waterproof strap is lined with reflectors and can be worn either on the head or over a hard hat.

The light can be low, medium or high for suitability in a variety of conditions. Additionally, Coast offers both a white light and a red light to prevent glare at night and also signal in case of an emergency.

Light strength varies but is available in over 1000 lumens. The light itself is mounted on a hinge so you can change the angle of illumination as needed.

Finally, Coast headlamps can be powered by alkaline batteries (disposable or rechargeable) or a USB cord.

Coast headlamp cons

The main concern with Coast headlamps is their comfort when being worn for a long time. The strap can be uncomfortable when directly on the head, and the highest-powered lamps get hot.

Best Coast headlamps

Coast HL8R Pure Beam LED Headlamp

Send 800 lumens of light up to 700 feet with one simple twist. The top strap keeps it securely in place, and it shifts easily between a spot and a floodlight. Use the included lithium ion battery or add four AA batteries of your own.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Coast XPH30R Dual Power LED Headlamp

Illumination varies from 40-1,000 lumens. The magnetic lamp is affordable, durable and adjusts the angle easily. This takes either rechargeable or alkaline batteries and provides up to 41 hours of power.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Coast FL85R Dual Color LED Headlamp

It has a pure beam and twist-focus, plus a broad floodlight for overall illumination. This headlamp includes a rechargeable battery but this also charges with a USB cord. It also comes with hard hat clips to keep it secure on the job.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Black Diamond headlamp

Black Diamond is a trusted purveyor of high-quality gear that started with a line of backpacks and branched into headlamps. It caters to outdoor enthusiasts and hobbyists.  

Black Diamond headlamp pros

Black Diamond headlamps are a low-cost option for lighting up the darkness. They keep a low profile and come with a brightness memory that records your preferred settings for the next time you switch the power on.

They are comfortable to wear, and some can provide light for up to four hours, even on the brightest setting.

Black Diamond headlamp cons

The illumination is not as bright as some other headlamps. Many have lumens that don’t reach 100  (instead of 1,000 or more).

Additionally, most models only have one option for power. They either use batteries or USB charging — rarely both.

Best Black Diamond headlamps

Black Diamond Equipment Cosmo 300 Headlamp

This has a maximum brightness of 300 lumens. It includes strobe options and is available in six colors. It takes AAA batteries that are included.

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

Black Diamond SpotLite 160 Headlamp

With a top lumen brightness of 160, this compact headlamp is best for dusk and times when there is also natural illumination. Its light reaches up to 60 meters, and the headlamp is waterproof for up to 30 minutes, even when it's fully submerged. This makes it a great choice for fishing and caving when contact with water is a possibility.

Sold by Dick's Sporting Goods

Black Diamond Stride Headlamp

A single button powers this headlamp, which can turn on 25 lumens of solid white light, a strobe or a red light. The battery is rechargeable with the included USB cord.

Sold by Amazon

Should you get a Coast headlamp or a Black Diamond headlamp?

Both Coast and Black Diamond have a high-quality headlamp that does the basic job of lighting the way in the darkness. However, Coast headlamps provide a consistently better option in terms of power and battery flexibility. Coast headlamps have a higher lumen rating than Black Diamond, and they can be powered in more than one way. You might find Black Diamond a good option for low-light conditions walking the dog after dinner or illuminating the fine details of a painting project, but Coast offers better performance on the job and in the dark of the woods.

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Suzannah Kolbeck writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Your furry best friend needs their own space to stretch out and dodge raindrops and snowflakes. Dog houses provide shelter from nature and a safe place to nap. Your pet can use its dog house inside or outside your home. You can find dog houses in various materials, but plastic dog houses offer compelling advantages.

Plastic dog houses come in many designs for all sizes of dogs. They are easy to assemble and clean. They are durable, resistant to outdoor pests and withstand rain and snow. One of the best plastic dog houses is the Petmate Indigo Dog House for its spacious igloo design and all-season construction. 

What to know before you buy a plastic dog house

Size

There is a wide variety of sizes for plastic dog houses. You should be able to find one that fits your dog comfortably. Large dog houses can also be used for two small dogs.

A good measurement is to find a dog house with a length 25% longer than your dog, a width 10% wider and an entrance that is 75% the height of your dog from their shoulder to the ground. Measure your dog in advance to ensure you get the best size dog house.

Climate

Plastic dog houses are durable and waterproof. They are excellent at withstanding rain, snow and humidity for many years. They are not well insulated though. If you live in a climate where cold temperatures are common, you will want to consider additional insulation or possibly a wooden dog house for the outside and a plastic house for the inside.

Portability 

Plastic dog houses are ideal if you need to move your dog's house back and forth between the outdoors and inside. They are lightweight and easily transported. Some smaller dog houses double as dog carriers for family trips or veterinarian visits.

What to look for in a plastic dog house

Ventilation

Plastic dog houses with large doors and removable roof flaps are best at providing a consistent flow of air through the house. This is important when dogs need a space to cool down when it's hot. Reattaching the roof flaps in the winter holds warmth inside.

For additional ventilation, slightly elevate your dog house. This keeps it free from dirt and groundwater.

Easy assembly

Most plastic dog houses are easy to assemble. They typically don't require special tools to construct them but instead need the panels to be connected together. Plastic dog houses are the best choice if you are not mechanically inclined or want to save time.

Odor prevention

There is new technology that applies Microban to the plastic panels to eliminate odors from your dog's house. Microban is an antimicrobial additive that applies a layer of protection against mold, mildew and bacteria. Not all manufacturers use this technology.

How much you can expect to spend on a plastic dog house

Inexpensive plastic dog houses, which are priced between $45-$70, are typically designed for small dogs, and some double as a carrier. Between $70-$100, you'll find houses made for medium to large dogs that have more material to assemble. For $100-$250,  the houses are larger than required and have amenities like windows and sunroofs. 

Plastic dog house FAQ

Will my dog get lonely in a house without windows?

A. Plastic dog houses provide a lot of privacy since most do not have additional openings other than the door. This is ideal for puppies who are easily distracted and may whine whenever someone is within view. Most dogs get used to privacy and even crave it at times.

Can my dog's house be taken on an airplane?

A. Some small plastic dog houses double as a carrier. Check the manufacturer's instructions and look at the airline's requirements to make sure the house meets the dimensional parameters.

What is the best plastic dog house to buy?

Top plastic dog house

Petmate Indigo Dog House

What you need to know: This dog house is insulated and built for all seasons with its patented dome design and igloo style.

What you'll love: The dome protects against rain, wind and snow. It has air vents to promote circulation. The heavy-duty construction stands up to 1,500 pounds of load strength. It is made from eco-friendly recycled plastic.

What you should consider: It is more expensive than many similar houses. There were some reports of the house arriving scuffed up while shipping.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon 

Top plastic dog house for the money

Always-Quality Indoor Outdoor Dog House

What you need to know: This affordable dog house is designed for both indoors and outdoors with durable construction for all conditions.

What you'll love: It has a homey design that looks welcoming. It assembles in minutes with a screwdriver. The outside surfaces are smooth for easy cleaning. There is excellent roof ventilation. It is ideal for smaller dogs with a height of 26 inches.

What you should consider: It is lightweight and can be blown by high winds if your pet is not inside it.  

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Suncast DH350 Dog House

What you need to know: This barn-design dog house is roomy and looks great in any backyard.

What you'll love: It is constructed with high-quality resin for dogs up to 100 pounds. The snap-on assembly takes just minutes. Built-in ventilation promotes circulation. It has a contemporary design and neutral colors to match most home decors.

What you should consider: The plastic felt flimsy to some customers.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Steve Ganger writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money. 

Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

In this article: DeWalt Battery-Operated Chain Saw Set, Greenworks Corded Chain Saw and Husqvarna Gas Chainsaw.

Power sources

Chain saws run on one of three power sources:

• Battery-operated chain saws are the weakest of the bunch, and their batteries rarely last longer than 30 to 60 minutes. But they can be used anywhere and have far fewer maintenance requirements than gas chain saws.
• Corded chain saws can’t be used in many places due to the cord, but they often have as much power as a gas chain saw without the maintenance requirements.
• Gas chain saws are the beasts needed to shred through the toughest jobs, but they’re expensive to fuel and difficult to maintain.

Safety features to look for

Chain saws can use a variety of safety features:

• Low kickback: Kickback is the term for when your chain saw suddenly hits something or gets stuck, causing it to jerk unexpectedly. Low kickback is an optional feature found on chain saws meant for use by people new to them. Essentially, it means that the chain saw’s power is limited so that when kickback occurs, it’s not as severe. The downside is that you may not have enough power for more intense tasks. Kickback is inevitable, no matter how weak the chain saw, so once you get used to handling it you should upgrade to a stronger chain saw without low kickback.
• Chain brake: A chain break is a system by which a chain saw recognizes if you’ve lost control of it. The second control is lost, the chain stops moving while leaving the engine running. Usually, this system is tied to a secondary handle that needs to be held down. If your hand slips from it, the chain stops. Not all chain saws have one, so always double-check for one before making a purchase.
• Easy tension adjustment: In order to avoid many accidents, it’s imperative that your chain saw’s chain always be appropriately tense. Some chains can be more complex to adjust than others, so while an easily-adjustable chain isn’t technically a safety feature, it sure doesn’t hurt either.

Other requirements for safely using a chain saw

Using a chain saw safely isn’t just about what safety features one may have. It’s also about respecting the machine and adhering to several safety protocols.

• Understand your chain saw: The number one way to prevent accidents is to understand how your chain saw works, front to back. This means reading the manual, conducting proper maintenance and understanding how to kill the power quickly in an emergency, among others.
• Wear protection: Just like you still wear a helmet despite having ridden bikes for years, you should wear protective gear when using a chain saw. This means clothing that covers as much of your body as possible, firm shoes, good work gloves and ear and face protection.
• Ensure good balance: Circling back to firm shoes, never use a chain saw unless your feet are firmly planted on the ground. If you’re unbalanced, or worse on a ladder, a small tug from the saw can send you and it careening.
• Don’t overreach: Chain saws become exponentially more dangerous the further away from your body you hold them. To maintain proper safety, only cut things that are directly in front of you and never cut anything above your shoulders.
• Double-check the area: After every other protocol is followed, do one final check of your work area. Ensure no living thing is nearby and triple-check what you’re about to cut to ensure you don’t cut through something you shouldn’t.

Best battery-operated chain saws

Black and Decker Battery-Operated Chain Saw

This chain saw has a front hand guard and a lock-off button for extra protection and safety, plus a tool-free chain tensioning system. It weighs just 10.4 pounds and has a 12-inch blade.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

DeWalt Battery-Operated Chain Saw Set

This set includes a hedge trimmer and a pole-mounted chain saw so you can get to those hard-to-reach spots around your home. It also includes a battery and a charger. 

Sold by Amazon

Greenworks Battery-Operated Chain Saw

This chain saw has a 16-inch blade and a 40-volt motor. It comes with a battery and a charger. It uses a simple push button to start it and has an automatic oiling system. 

Sold by Amazon

Best corded chain saws

Greenworks Corded Chain Saw

This chain saw starts up in seconds and has a 10.5-amp motor to power its 14-inch blade. Its chain can be adjusted without tools and it has a front hand guard. 

Sold by Amazon

Oregon Corded Chain Saw

This corded chain saw’s blade is a little longer than most at 18 inches. It starts up instantly, has an automatic oiling system and comes with an extra chain.

Sold by Amazon

Wen Corded Chain Saw

This chain saw comes in with either a 9-amp motor and 14-inch blade or a 12-amp motor and 16-inch blade. Regardless, it has a front hand guard and requires no tools to adjust or replace the chain.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Worx Corded Chain Saw

This chain saw has a full-wrap handle so you can hold it safely and comfortably in a vertical or horizontal position. It also has a chain brake and automatic tension adjustment systems.

Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Best gas chain saws

Craftsman Gas Chain Saw

This chain saw has a 16-inch blade with a two-cycle engine. It has an automatic chain oiler that you can adjust to ensure the proper amount of oil on the chain.

Sold by Amazon

Husqvarna Gas Chain Saw

This beastly chain saw has a massive 24-inch blade and a 3.6-horsepower engine. It also has an air cleaning system that expels dust and large debris before they can reach the air filter. 

Sold by Amazon

Poulan Pro Gas Chain Saw

This is a good middle-of-the-road chain saw with solid power and reach so you can handle most tasks that get thrown your way. It comes with a case, too.

Sold by Amazon

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In this article: PolyScience Smoking Gun, Boruit Portable Cocktail Smoker and Breville Food Smoking Gun.

What is cocktail smoking?

Cocktail smoking is the infusion of smoke into a beverage. While bourbon and whiskey have long been aged in smoked barrels, the notion of adding your own smoke to any beverage you choose from the convenience of your kitchen is a new, trendy idea.

Cocktail smoker types

• Smoking guns are handheld devices. A battery-powered fan carries smoke from the gun's burning chamber into a hose. The hose lets you direct the smoke into a chamber covering your drink or right into the glass.
• Glass top smokers offer a more traditional experience. These wooden lids are placed on top of the beverage to be infused. Wood chips are then piled into the lid's burn chamber and set ablaze. Holes in the lid let the resulting smoke seep down into the glass, where it is absorbed into the drink.
• Smoking boxes make for the most entertaining preparation. Made of transparent glass, these boxes let you and your guests view the beverage placed inside it as it is enveloped in smoke, typically pumped in using a gun.

What do I need to smoke a beverage?

Aside from a cocktail smoker that suits your style, you need the following items to get the party started:

• Torch-style butane lighter. Gas station lighters won't get your wood chips hot enough to produce consistent smoke. Torch-style lighters also let you more accurately aim their flames into the smoker's burn chamber.
• Batteries. If you opt for a smoking gun, make sure you have the batteries you need to keep it running.
• Wood chips. Have a variety of wood chips available so you can try out different combinations and find your favorites.
• Fire extinguisher. Cocktail smoking isn't particularly dangerous, but precautions should be taken any time you're burning indoors. 

Experiment with flavors

If smoking drinks with wood chips isn't pushing the envelope enough for you, consider burning the following ingredients in your smoker:

• Cinnamon sticks result in sweetness and mild heat. Perfect for entertaining around the holidays.
• Corn husks can be used to accentuate the flavors already present in bourbon and other corn-based spirits.
• Coffee beans let you blur the lines between bartender and barista and add earthy undertones to your cocktails.
• Citrus peels complement the light flavor of Japanese whiskies or vodka.
• Vanilla beans add a mellow, velvety sweetness to any drink.

Best cocktail smokers

PolyScience Smoking Gun

This commercial-grade infuser has an anodized aluminum smoking chamber, a metal fan that won't melt and a dial that you can use to precisely control its smoke output. It runs on four AA batteries and its 17.5-inch hose makes it easy to get the smoke where you need it.

Sold by Amazon

Boruit Portable Cocktail Smoker

With its wide base and upright design, this smoker sits conveniently on your bar or countertop where its flexible hose is within easy reach. It turns on with the press of a single button and runs on two AA batteries.

Sold by Amazon

Breville Food Smoking Gun

This smoker's removable burn chamber makes it easy to load, clean and maintain. This kit includes apple and hickory wood chips and four AA batteries, giving you everything you need to get started.

Sold by Amazon

Homia Smoke Infuser Gun

A great value, this set includes a smoker, a smoking lid, a cocktail smoking ball, seven flavors of wood chips, four AA batteries and a cleaning brush. The smoker has two power options, letting you adjust it to your needs.

Sold by Amazon

Homia Smoking Gun Starter Kit

This infuser comes with four wood chip flavors to experiment with, four AA batteries, a cleaning brush and additional accessories. Unlike many kits, it also includes a stand you can use to hold the infuser gun in place while you use its hose to smoke your drinks or food.

Sold by Amazon

Crafthouse by Fortessa Stainless Steel and Glass Smoking Box

This smoke gun kit includes a stainless steel and glass box you can use to amuse your guests while you infuse their beverages. The box features a black walnut base, making it a classy addition to any bar or man cave.

Sold by Amazon

Mitbak Cocktail Smoker

With its included dome and two containers of wood chips, this well-crafted smoker is great for beginners or experienced mixers.  A built-in rechargeable battery means you won't ever be out of power when it's time to entertain.

Sold by Amazon

Tmkeffc Portable Smoking Gun

This budget-friendly smoker has a hose nearly 10 inches long and runs off of a pair of AA batteries. It comes in either gold or silver and pressing a single button gets the smoke rolling.

Sold by Amazon

Aeirnow Cocktail Smoker Kit

Keep the smoking elegant with this wood infuser that sits atop your drink glass. It comes with four wood chip varieties and is great for traditionalists who prefer to keep the technology out of their mixing technique. 

Sold by Amazon

Taigin Cocktail Smoker Kit with Torch

This wooden smoker includes four wood chip flavors, as well as a refillable butane torch. It perches on top of the glass letting you impress your guests while infusing each person's beverage with a flavor of their choice. 

Sold by Amazon

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In this article: Natizo Stainless Steel 3-cup Flour Sifter, Norpro Battery-Operated Sifter and Bellemain Stainless Steel 3-cup Flour Sifter.

Why you should sift your flour

Tight packing and humidity can cause flour to form clumps that need to be pulverized manually. Sifters let you quickly break these clumps up, returning the flour to a fine powder that can be more accurately measured. Light, airy flour is also easier to incorporate into dry mixes. This means that any dough or batter you make will have its ingredients evenly distributed and your finished treats will have a smooth texture free of any grittiness.

How flour sifters work

No matter which type of flour sifter you use, they all function in the same way. Flour placed in the sifter is collected in a canister where a spinning agitator breaks up clumps. The powdered flour then falls through the canister's mesh bottom into a bowl or storage container of your choosing.

Flour sifter types

• Crank-style. These sifters have a crank on them that you manually turn to engage an agitator. You hold the sifter in one hand and use the other to spin the crank.
• Squeeze-handled. Some sifters have a spring-loaded lever built into their handles. Squeezing the lever repeatedly moves the agitator. You can use squeeze-handled sifters with one hand, but if you are susceptible to wrist strain or cramping, you should opt for a different design.
• Electronic. Battery-powered sifters are the easiest to use. With the press of a button or the flip of a switch, a motorized agitator does all the work for you. Battery-powered sifters are convenient, but because they include electronic components they are harder to clean. 

What to look for in a flour sifter

Aside from the type of sifter you prefer, there are a few other factors to keep in mind while you shop.

• Capacity. Consider your baking needs to determine what size sifter you should purchase. A large capacity sifter that can process eight cups of flour is great for commercial purposes but too large and heavy if you only bake occasionally. Most people find that a 4-cup sifter suits their needs without becoming cumbersome.
• Cleaning. Keeping your flour sifter clean will prevent bacterial growth and ensure that its moving parts operate smoothly without friction. Look for a sifter that doesn't have any more nooks and crannies to keep cleanup from becoming a chore.
• Speed. For maximum efficiency, opt for a crank-style or squeezable sifter. An electronic sifter requires less effort, but you may find it to be slower than a manual one that puts you in charge of how fast it operates.

Best crank-style flour sifters

Natizo Stainless Steel 3-cup Flour Sifter 

With lines indicating 1, 2 or 3 cups, you can measure exactly how much flour you need with this sifter made out of stainless steel. It includes lids for the top and bottom of the sifter, preventing flour from taking to the air when you turn the crank or dropping into the cupboard during storage.

Sold by Amazon

Bellemain Stainless Steel 3-cup Flour Sifter

A single mesh layer makes cleaning this sifter a breeze. Turning the wooden handle on its crank engages a double agitator, making it twice as efficient as most other sifters.

Sold by Amazon

Hulisen 3-cup Flour Sifter, Pastry Cutter, Dough Blender and Biscuit Cutter

This set includes a 3-cup, crank-style sifter and three additional pieces of kitchen hardware that bakers simply can't do without. Whether you're new to baking or looking to refresh your tools, this kit is a great bargain.

Sold by Amazon

Chefgiant 8-cup Flour Sifter

This stainless steel sifter can hold up to eight cups of flour, making it ideal for commercial baking. It features a fine mesh screen that allows for more consistent sifting and easier flour incorporation. 

Sold by Amazon

Webake 3-cup Baking Sifter

For those looking to add some colorful flair to their baking tools, this turquoise sifter fits the bill. A classic rotary hand crank and double agitator make this stainless steel sifter a simple but effective tool.

Sold by Amazon

Best squeezable flour sifters

Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Hand Squeeze Flour Sifter

Thanks to its squeezable handle, you can operate this sifter while keeping your other hand free. Spring action makes the agitating easy, and its stainless steel construction will keep you baking for years to come.

Sold by Amazon

NPYPQ 5-cup Stainless Steel Flour Sifter

This durable sifter can be operated with one hand, thanks to its spring-loaded handle. Its polished mirror finish complements any kitchen. Two layers of mesh make your flour, cocoa powder or sugar soft and powdery.

Sold by Amazon

Sktaotao Flour Sifter

This sifter can hold 3 cups of flour, is operated with only one hand and features three layers of mesh screens. Silicone pads on its handle keep you comfortable even during repeated use. 

Sold by Amazon

Best electronic flour sifters

Norpro Battery-Operated Sifter

Cut down on wrist strain with this battery-operated sifter that processes your flour with the flip of a switch. It can hold up to 5 cups of powder, making it great for baking large amounts of food.

Sold by Amazon

HYCBTC Battery-Operated Flour Sifter 

Give your wrists a break with this battery-powered sifter that takes the effort out of prepping your ingredients. Depress the large button on its handle and it automatically aerates up to 4 cups of flour.

Sold by Amazon

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Regardless of whether you fall into the former category, the latter or somewhere in between, your wardrobe can only be improved by ensuring you have your basics covered.

In this article: Hanes White T-Shirts, Levi’s Women’s Plus Size 721 High-Rise Skinny Jeans and Vans Women’s Old Skool Core Classics.

Top 10 basics

The top 10 basics everyone needs for the most versatile wardrobe, from top to bottom on the body, are:

• Jacket: How thick or thin your jacket should be depends on your climate, but a second layer is an easy way to spice up your outfit.
• Button-down shirt/simple dress: Whatever your reason is for needing or wanting to look nice, all it often takes is a classy button-down or simple dress.
• Polo shirt: This is the champion of the “business casual” look, whether you wear it for business or not.
• White T-shirt: This casual basic looks good with almost anything.
• Black pants: Black pants don’t automatically mean dressy or business casual, but that is what they’re most often used for.
• Blue jeans: These are a casual staple that can pull any less-formal look together.
• Shorts: When the weather is hot, pants don’t cut it. Your shorts can be dressy or more gym-focused, but both wouldn’t hurt.
• Comfortable underwear: Even though no one will see it, having a good, comfortable pair of underwear can make any outfit easier to tolerate.
• Tennis shoes/sneakers: When you need to put in your steps, make sure you have comfortable athletic shoes.
• Dress shoes: You’d be surprised how often good — and bad — shoes can stand out when you’re trying to impress. It’s better to make yours the former.

Best jackets

Amazon Essentials Jacket

The puffer jacket is perfect to have for cool to cold weather, and its design helps it stand out just enough that you don’t become a wallflower. It comes in 12 sizes and 30 colors.

Sold by Amazon

Columbia Men’s Ascender Softshell Jacket

A soft-shell jacket works anywhere that requires business casual and down, from a day at the office to a night at your favorite bar. It comes in five sizes and eight colors.

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods 

Best button-down shirt and simple dress

Van Heusen Button-Down Shirt

Sometimes all it takes to upgrade a basic is just one small detail, such as how this collar is buttoned down at the tips. It comes in 12 sizes and six designs, including the all-time classics plain white and light blue.

Sold by Amazon

Relipop Dress

This dress stands out from the usual “simple dress” look by having a little bow at the side and some ruffling along the bottom. It comes in five sizes and 33 designs.

Sold by Amazon

Best polo shirts

Magcomsen Polo Shirt

Step up to the tee box next Sunday morning feeling comfortable and looking good. It comes in five sizes and 59 colors, some of which come in short sleeves, long sleeves or both.

Sold by Amazon

Port Authority Polo Shirt

This polo breaks away from the norm by eschewing buttons and having a V-neck, though it’s still nothing if not professional. It comes in eight sizes and 11 colors.

Sold by Amazon

Best white T-shirts

Gildan White T-Shirts

This shirt has tear-away labels for those who hate the feeling of them tickling their neck. Two are included and they come in six sizes and many additional colors.

Sold by Amazon

Hanes White T-Shirts

This shirt is just as well suited for wearing as is as it is for being worn as an undershirt. The pack includes four shirts, which come in seven sizes and many additional colors.

Sold by Amazon

Best black pants

Dickies Men’s Original 874 Work Pant Pants

These pants can be worn to work, to a nice restaurant for a first date or just when paired with your white T-shirt as a break from the usual blue jeans. They come in 88 sizes and 17 additional colors.

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods 

Lee Women’s Flex Motion Regular Fit Trouser Pants

These pants are exactly what springs to mind when you think “girl boss.” It doesn’t hurt that the pockets are actually usable. They come in 30 sizes and 14 additional colors.

Sold by Amazon 

Best blue jeans

Levi’s Women’s Plus Size 721 High Rise Skinny Jeans

These skinny jeans are great for showing off your legs and the high waist is flattering to the right body type. They come in 40 sizes and 33 designs, some of which are distressed.

Sold by Amazon 

Wrangler Authentics Blue Jeans

These jeans are on the loose side so you can maintain your comfort during a long day, though you’ll also need the right belt. They come in 64 sizes and nine shades.

Sold by Amazon

Best shorts

Balennz Shorts

These shorts are perfect for hitting the basketball court or lounging at home in the heat of summer. They come in five sizes and can be bought alone or as a set of two, three, five or seven.

Sold by Amazon

Champion 5-Inch Jersey Shorts

These shorts have odor control so you can wear them to the gym before running some errands without the gym coming with you. They come in six sizes and nine colors.

Sold by Amazon

Best comfortable underwear

Calvin Klein Women’s Carousel Logo Cotton Stretch Bikini Panties, Three-Pack

The most comfortable underwear is often the simplest, and these exemplify that idea. They have a bikini silhouette and full rear coverage. They come in five sizes and 41 sets of three.

Sold by Amazon

Ralph Lauren Men’s Classic Fit Cotton Boxer Briefs, Three-Pack

This boxer-style underwear has a no-ride-up system and no tag for the most comfortable long-term experience possible. They come in five sizes and four sets of three.

Sold by Amazon

Best tennis shoes/sneakers

Adidas Men’s Advantage Sneakers

Adidas has long been among the best athleisure brands, and these straightforward shoes carry that torch. Wear them all day and tread in peace. They come in 21 sizes and 15 designs.

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods 

Vans Women’s Old Skool Core Classics

Vans are almost single-handedly responsible for the rise of “skater shoes” on the market, and they remain the best of them all. They come in 41 sizes and 33 designs.

Sold by Amazon

Best dress shoes

Bruno Marc Men’s Casual Dress Shoes

Most basic dress shoes for men can look awkwardly shiny, but these have some texture to them to help them rise above that common flaw. They come in 12 sizes and eight designs.

Sold by Amazon

LifeStride Parigi Women’s High-Heel Pumps

If you can only have one dressy pair of women’s shoes, pumps are easily the most versatile of the versatile. These come in 56 sizes and 21 designs.

Sold by Amazon

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Who doesn't love a juicy burger cooked on the grill or stovetop? But making delicious burgers at home means shaping them just right — and a burger press can make the job much easier. 

A burger press is a handheld tool that forms uniform patties, so they all cook evenly. You can find presses that create burgers in different sizes and thicknesses and even some that are adjustable. If you're looking for a high-quality press that's easy to use and clean, the Cave Tools Burger Press is an excellent choice.

What to know before you buy a burger press

Size and adjustability

Many burger presses have a simple design, making burgers in a single size. The size affects not only the diameter of the burger but the thickness as well. If you want burgers in a specific size, check the dimensions carefully to ensure they match. 

You can also find some presses that let you adjust the size and thickness of your burgers. For example, an adjustable burger press often lets you make regular-sized burgers and smaller slider burgers if you're preparing appetizers or cooking for children.

Adjustability is a handy feature because thinner burgers are an ideal option when you want to cook quickly or prefer a well-done patty. On the other hand, thicker patties are a better choice if you prefer a little pink in your burgers. 

Material

The material a burger press is made of determines how easy it is to use and clean. Non-stick materials are the best option because you don't have to worry about your ground meat sticking to the press. That's why many presses are made of plastic or metal, like aluminum. 

Aluminum presses are usually more durable than plastic models, which can crack. Plastic presses are typically more affordable, though. But make sure to choose a BPA-free plastic press, so you don't have to worry about chemicals leeching into your burgers. 

What to look for in a quality burger press

Patty quantity 

Most burger presses only make a single patty at a time. However, if you regularly grill or cook for large groups, you can also find presses that make multiple burgers at a time. You may pay a little more for a multiple-patty press, but you can prep your burgers more quickly for barbecues and other parties. 

Stuffed burgers

Stuffing burgers with your favorite toppings like cheese, bacon or grilled onions, can take their flavor to the next level. Some presses are designed to let you fill your burger patties with the ingredients of your choice, while still keeping the burgers uniform in size and thickness.

Heat-safe

Some burger presses are heat-safe, so you can use them directly on your grill, pan or griddle. That can ensure that your burgers don't break during the transfer to your cooking surface or that you can reshape a patty if necessary. 

Ease of cleaning

A burger press should be easy to clean, so you don't have to worry about bits of old meat getting stuck on it. Non-stick presses are the easiest to clean because you can just wipe the meat away. Some plastic burger presses are even dishwasher-safe, so you can toss them on the top rack with your dishes. 

How much you can expect to spend on a burger press

You'll typically pay $2-$30 for a burger press. Plastic burger presses and those that only help you flatten the meat without shaping it usually cost $2-10, while metal presses that also help shape your patties generally go for $10-$20. For cast-iron and other higher-quality metal presses, though, you may spend as much as $30.

Burger press FAQ

Why should I use a burger press rather than shaping burgers by hand?

A. Using a press not only lets you shape and form your burgers more quickly, but it also ensures that they're all uniform in shape and size. It can help keep your hands from getting dirty, too.

How can I prevent my burgers from sticking to the burger press?

A. Some people like to place a piece of parchment paper between the press and the meat to serve as a non-stick barrier. You can also lightly grease the press with a cooking oil (vegetable, canola, olive or avocado are great options) to prevent the meat from sticking.

Can I use a burger press for veggie or imitation meat burgers?

A. A burger press can work with any type of meat or meat substitute, including ground beef, chicken, turkey, bison, veggie burger meat or imitation meat. However, some types of imitation meat may stick more than others, so you may want to grease the press before using it. 

What's the best way to clean a burger press?

A. Most presses are easy to clean with soap and water. However, if meat is stuck on the press, you may need an abrasive sponge to scrub it off. Plastic presses are often dishwasher-safe, making them extremely easy to clean. On the other hand, cast-iron presses require special handling, so follow the instructions that come with them carefully.

What's the best burger press to buy?

Top burger press

Cave Tools Burger Press

What you need to know: This top-of-the-line burger press features a simple but extremely effective design that perfectly shapes and flattens your burgers.

What you'll love: It forms patties quickly and easily. It can make 1/4- and 1/3-pound burgers. The aluminum material makes the press highly durable and clean-up a breeze, and it also comes with parchment paper squares to divide and separate your shaped patties.

What you should consider: It doesn't work well for stuffed burgers, and some people find that the finished burgers are on the small side. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top burger press for the money

Cuisinart Smashed Burger Press

What you need to know: The durable, heavy burger press can form impressively flat patties that are as flavorful as can be. 

What you'll love: The sturdy, heavy-weight cast iron means the press can last for years. You can use it directly on your grill, pan or griddle, and it has a raised edge that helps burgers stay juicy. It also flattens the patties well, so they have delicious crispy edges. 

What you should consider: Some buyers find that the raised edge prevents them from smashing the burgers as much as they'd like. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

GLOGLOW Stuffed Burger Press

What you need to know:  This durable, stainless steel press lets you make large stuffed burgers for the whole family in minutes.

What you'll love: It can make large burgers that can be stuffed with nearly any ingredients. It creates uniformly shaped and sized burgers that cook evenly and the nonstick surface makes clean-up a breeze. 

What you should consider: If you press too hard, you may wind up with burgers that are thinner on top than at the bottom.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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In this article: Life Extension Super Ubiquinol CoQ10, New Chapter Wholemega Fish Oil and Barlean's Fresh Flaxseed Oil. 

What heart conditions do supplements address?

The main aspects of heart health that supplements address are cholesterol and blood pressure. Supplements affecting cholesterol typically lower "bad" LDL cholesterol and elevate "good" HDL cholesterol. 

Blood pressure supplements are intended to help lower blood pressure in conjunction with other strategies such as exercise, better diet, losing weight and limited nicotine and alcohol. Always consult your health care provider if you're already taking blood pressure medication before taking any supplement claiming to lower blood pressure since blood pressure that is too low comes with its own set of risks and dangers. 

What are the kinds of heart supplements?

Some supplements are designed to lower cholesterol levels. Natural fiber supplements from the psyllium husk lower "bad" LDL cholesterol while also raising "good" HDL levels. Fish oil and green tea can lower levels of triglycerides, which are unhealthy fats in your blood. Flaxseed oil and red yeast rice also may improve cholesterol levels. 

Coenzyme Q10, known as CoQ10 or ubiquinone, helps lower blood pressure, and it also can offset some of the side effects of prescription statins used for cholesterol treatment. Other supplements that affect blood pressure are garlic, fish oil and grapeseed extract. 

Magnesium helps maintain normal blood pressure and sometimes is used for heart arrhythmias.  And a supplement known as L-carnitine improves heart and vascular function, especially for anyone who is frequently active. 

Side effects and cautions

Supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Some may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, gas or stomach pain. Others may cause fatigue. Always take the recommended dose, but don't exceed it. What is most important is to review your supplements with your health care provider to determine what is safe for your body and to make sure there are no interactions with other medications or supplements.

Also keep in mind that there are many research studies cited by manufacturers as to the effectiveness of their supplement on certain aspects of heart health. Many of these studies need further evaluation. In fact, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, the most important thing you can do to enhance heart health is improve your diet, and let that help your cardiovascular condition. 

Best heart health supplements

Life Extension Super Ubiquinol CoQ10

This American-made supplement is non-GMO and gluten-free, with a form of CoQ10 that is absorbed up to eight times more easily than the traditional form of CoQ10. It may help lower blood pressure and counter the side effects of statin medications. 

Sold by Amazon and iHerb

New Chapter Wholemega Fish Oil

Using only sustainably caught wild Alaskan salmon oil, this supplement helps lower triglycerides. It is gluten-free, non-GMO and certified by the National Sanitation Foundation. 

Sold by Amazon and iHerb

Barlean's Fresh Flaxseed Oil

This high-quality flaxseed oil is cold-pressed without heat or solvents. It is gluten-free, non-GMO and contains only organic ingredients that help lower cholesterol levels and provide healthy omega 3, 6 and 9. 

Sold by Amazon and iHerb

Now Red Yeast Rice

For lowering total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides, this herbal supplement has been used for over 1,000 years in Asian cultures. It is vegan, non-GMO and manufactured without citrinin by a family-owned company. 

Sold by Amazon and  iHerb 

Garden of Life Raw Organic Fiber

Fiber is helpful for lowering cholesterol, and this raw organic fiber powder also eliminates toxins and keeps bowel movements regular. It is made from 15 seeds, legumes and grains. It is unflavored for easy blending.

Sold by iHerb

Beyond Raw Chemistry Labs L-Carnitine Powder

This powder is often used by athletes to improve heart function and helps metabolize long-chain fatty acids. It is gluten-free and can be used both before and after physical activity. 

Sold by Amazon 

Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract Cardiovascular Liquid

This odorless garlic liquid supplement comes from organically grown garlic. It supports heart health by maintaining healthy cholesterol and homocysteine levels and detoxifying the liver. 

Sold by Amazon and iHerb

Dr. Sinatra Magnesium Broad-Spectrum Complex

This supplement contains four forms of magnesium to support both heart and bone health. It is made with magnesium as citrate, orotate, taurinate and glycinate. The supplement is free of gluten and soy. 

Sold by iHerb

Good Nature Healthy Heart Tea

This herbal tea may support heart health with the highest-quality tea and herbs, including hibiscus, rose hip, lemon balm leaf, hawthorn leaf and sweet fennel. It is certified organic and free of gluten, caffeine and sugar. 

Sold by Amazon

Olympian Labs Grape Seed Extract

With 200 milligrams of grape seed extract, this supplement supports vascular health and may lower blood pressure. It contains active antioxidants that are easily absorbed and may affect skin health, too. 

Sold by iHerb

Worth checking out

• A great combination supplement from one of the leading omega 3 manufacturers is Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega and CoQ10, with 1,280 milligrams of total omega 3 and 100 milligrams of ubiquinone. 
• Piper Biosciences Cholesterol Wellness Gummies is a tasty gummy that contains plant sterols for lowering cholesterol.  

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The smooth, rich taste of cold-brewed coffee provides a delicious coffee flavor with less of the bitterness of a traditional brew. Extracting coffee from ground beans with cold water is a gentler process that leaves some of the stronger flavors behind, which highlights the beans' more delicate undertones. Cold brewing coffee takes time, but cold brew concentrate means you can have this java experience whenever you like.

If you prefer a smooth, complex cup of cold brew, Javy Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate is a great choice.

What to know before you buy a cold brew concentrate

Concentrate strength

Cold brew coffee makers can get you started on the 12-hour cold brew process, but when you need something in a hurry, it’s best to pick the concentrate that makes the strength you prefer. Concentrate strength varies from mild to bold.. Even if you can adjust each cup’s strength based on your concentrate to water ratio, you’ll stretch your coffee further if you choose the strength you like as a base.

Sweetened vs. unsweetened

• Sweetened: This is a great option if you don’t want to mess with your coffee at all — just add water and hit the road. However, some sweetened concentrates are too sweet or not sweet enough. It’s a challenge to find that “just right” Goldilocks spot when you’re not the one adding the sweetness..
• Unsweetened: This lets you customize your morning brew exactly how you like it. You do need to add your own sugar, but that’s a small price to pay for the perfect cup.

What to look for in a quality cold brew concentrate

Pure coffee

Of the two main types of coffee beans, Robusta and Arabica, Arabica are considered the superior choice. They have less caffeine, but a smoother taste with naturally sweet flavor notes of sugar, fruit and chocolate. Using 100% Arabica beans make an even smoother cup of cold brew.

Free from additives

Additives such as artificial coloring, flavoring and preservatives are unnecessary in a product that most people consume well within its shelf life. Select concentrates that don’t muddy their flavor with these things.

Allergen-free

It’s hard to imagine adding gluten or soy to a cold brew concentrate, but some have these sneaky allergens. If you have dietary restrictions, check the labels to make sure they are free from not only gluten and soy but also:

• Corn 
• Wheat
• Dairy

Fair or direct trade

Fair trade coffee is coffee that is purchased with a long-term agreement between buyer and seller on a price that does not fluctuate, even if the harvest is poor. This is a good start, but these agreements are sometimes made with a co-op that represents coffee farmers but does not always have their  interests in mind. The best cold brew concentrates are direct trade. In these arrangements. Companies deal directly with farmers, removing the person in the middle to increase a farmer’s profit on their crop.

How much you can expect to spend on cold brew concentrate

The price of cold brew concentrate is all over the road, mainly due to the type of bean and the size of the package. Expect to spend $10-$25.

Cold brew concentrate FAQ

Can you drink straight cold brew coffee concentrate?

A. Yes, it is possible to drink the concentrate without diluting it. It won’t be as bitter as brewed espresso, but still pairs well with dessert or as a quick afternoon pick-me-up.

How long does cold brew concentrate stay fresh in the fridge?

A. Unlike freshly brewed coffee that starts to taste old and stale after just a few hours, cold brew concentrate can stay fresh and delicious in the fridge for up to two weeks. 

However, it’s important to only mix as much coffee as you can drink in one sitting. When cut with water, the shelf life plummets to just two to three days.

Is there anything else you can do with cold brew concentrate?

A. Cold brew coffee concentrate can be diluted as directed on the bottle for either a hot or cold coffee drink, but that’s not all you can do.

• Add to chocolate cake recipe instead of water for deeper chocolate flavor.
• Use in an espresso martini.
• Flavor buttercream frosting or macaron filling.
• Add a swirl to homemade ice cream.
• Craft delicious mocha truffles.

Essentially, if you are a baker who loves to make coffee-flavored treats, cold brew concentrate is a great shortcut.

What’s the best cold brew concentrate to buy?

Top cold brew concentrate

Javy Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate

What you need to know: This sustainably sourced cold brew concentrate gives back to the environment with every cup.

What you’ll love: This 100% Arabica bean coffee has a 6-month shelf life. Each bottle has up to 30 servings. It’s available in three other flavors, plus decaf, and it is gluten- and sugar-free.

What you should consider: If you prefer a stronger cup of coffee, you’ll use this up faster. The flavor is delicate and the strength mild.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top cold brew concentrate for the money

Califia Farms Unsweetened Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate

What you need to know: This is an affordable way to try cold brew to see if you like it.

What you’ll love: This coffee is sourced directly from farmers in Central America and East Africa. The beans deliver a mellow, medium-roast flavor with underlying hints of fruit and sugar. It is non-GMO, kosher and vegan, and is also free from common allergens and preservatives. 

What you should consider: This container only makes five servings of coffee.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Java House Cold Brew Coffee

What you need to know: At a 4:1 ratio, this bottle makes up to 160 ounces of coffee.

What you’ll love: This is a more complex brew, with a flavor profile of molasses, walnut and cocoa. It’s made in small batches and steeped for 12 hours to extract maximum flavor. It’s free of preservatives and made from 100% Arabica coffee beans.

What you should consider: The price is higher than other concentrates, and for less coffee.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Relaxing in a hot tub with friends and family members is an enjoyable way to socialize. Whether you're hoping to fit your whole household or want to have room for friends, a six-person hot tub is a great size, as it's spacious without being enormous. 

It isn't always clear what to look for in a hot tub, especially if you're a first-time buyer. You want enough jets to make it worth your while, plus it's nice to have simple, easy-to-reach controls. Once you know what you're looking for, you'll soon be chilling in your tub.

Why choose an inflatable hot tub?

If you're wondering if you should choose an inflatable hot tub over a standard tub, these are just some of their advantages:

• Affordability: Inflatable versions are significantly cheaper than standard hot tubs, both to buy and install. So, if you don't have a huge budget, it makes sense to go inflatable. 
• Easy storage: If you want to pack away your hot tub during the colder months, you can just empty it, deflate it and pack it away. It takes up little space, so it's easy to store in a shed, garage or even a closet. 
• Gentler jets: Inflatable tubs use air jets or bubble jets, rather than the more powerful ones found in hot tubs. While this is a disadvantage for some, others prefer the feeling of these gentler jets. 
• Simple installation: Unlike hard-sided tubs, inflatable models don't need to be hardwired in by an electrician, nor do they need a poured concrete surface to sit on. This makes installation much simpler and cheaper. 
• Movable: If you don't like the position in which you've put your tub, it's extremely easy to move it next time you empty it, which isn't possible with standard versions.

What to look for in an inflatable hot tub

Jets

Before you buy, it's important to know that the jets on inflatable hot tubs are different from those on hard-sided tubs. They only have air jets, not water jets. This means you get the bubbling feeling you'd expect from a hot tub, but not the feeling of pressurized water. 

You should consider the number of jets your chosen tub features. Expect anywhere from 100-200 in a six-person tub. The more jets, the more bubbles it's capable of producing. 

Pump

All inflatable tubs should come with built-in pumps. These pumps have multiple purposes: inflating the tub, circulating water through the filter and powering the air jets. The pump must be up to the task at hand. Cheap tubs can feature subpar pumps, which give you disappointing bubbles. 

Controls

The control panel is what lets you change the temperature and the flow of the jets. The last thing you want when you're trying to have a relaxing time in your tub is something that's a pain to control, so it should be easy to operate. Ideally, you should be able to reach it from the tub so you don't have to get out to change the settings.

Ground sheet

Some come with a ground sheet that acts as a layer of protection between the tub and the ground. While you should carefully pick over the area to remove any sticks, stones or other sharp objects, it's still good to have this extra protection.

Cover

Ideally, your tub should come with a cover. Not only does this keep heat locked in to save energy when bringing the tub up to temperature, but it also keeps dirt and debris out. This means you shouldn't need to change the water so regularly.

Best 6-person inflatable hot tubs 

Bestway St. Moritz SaluSpa

The five- to seven-person capacity makes this hot tub a perfect choice to seat six comfortably. Made from a puncture-resistant DuraPlus material, this is a durable tub. It also comes with a reinforced cover to keep out debris.

Sold by Amazon

Coleman SaluSpa 140 AirJet Square Inflatable Hot Tub

With a capacity of four to six people, this hot tub fits six at a push, but it isn't the roomiest six-person option. It has 114 air jets to create soothing bubbles and comes with a wide range of accessories, including a cover, filter cartridges and cup holder attachment.

Sold by Amazon

Intex 28431E PureSpa Plus Six-Person Inflatable Hot Tub

Thanks to its filter and built-in water treatment system, this tub keeps water hygienic and gentle on your skin. It has 170 air jets to gently bubble away, a multicolored LED light to set the mood and a couple of headrests for your comfort.

Sold by Amazon

Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub

The four- to six-person capacity makes this a great option if you occasionally need to fit six people, but usually fewer. It has an automatic heating function to protect from frost, so you can use it year-round.

Sold by Amazon

Bestway SaluSpa Helsinki AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub

This hot tub is available in a faux wood-paneled design that looks great. It's ideal if you're not keen on the appearance of standard inflatable hot tubs. You can change the temperature and the flow of the jets from the digital control panel without getting out of the tub.

Sold by Amazon

Intex 28437EP PureSpa Bubble Massage Deluxe Hot Tub

A roomy choice for six people, this tub is made from a highly durable three-ply PVC that resists punctures. It has a built-in hard water treatment system and 140 bubble jets for a soothing experience.

Sold by Amazon

Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii HydroJet Pro Inflatable Hot Tub

Made from a durable puncture-resistant Tri-tech material and with I-beam wall construction, this tub is sturdy and holds its shape well. It inflates and deflates via the pump, which also circulates water and powers the jets.

Sold by Amazon

Intex 28409E PureSpa Six-Person Inflatable Hot Tub

With 170 high-powered air jets, this hot tub creates more bubbles than most of its size. The control panel is easy to use and reachable from inside the tub, while the headrests help you get comfy.

Sold by Amazon

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Cast iron was first invented in the fifth century B.C. Craftspeople in China poured iron into molds to make weapons, cookware and hand tools, many of which can still be seen in museums across the globe. Today, cast-iron pots are made in a similar process and can be found in kitchens all across the United States. 

For a cast-iron pot that is as functional as it is beautiful, the Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron Signature Braiser is a good choice.

What to know before you buy a cast-iron pot

Type of pot

Cast-iron braisers, skillets, Dutch ovens, woks: which type of cast-iron pot you choose depends on what you’re cooking.

• Braisers: Braisers are perfect when you want to cook a roast or other type of long-simmering food with just a small amount of liquid. The design of a lid keeps moisture in and returns it to what you're cooking. 
• Cast-iron skillets: Deep frying, cooking over a campfire or creating perfectly crispy hash browns? You need a skillet. Use a skillet to make perfect cornbread and biscuits, too.
• Cast-iron Dutch ovens: For soups and stews, a Dutch oven is the best. These are perfect for cooking in lots of liquid.
• Cast-iron woks: Cast iron works well for this style of cooking that uses high heat and speedy frying to keep vegetables bright and fresh.

Capacity

The size of the cast-iron pot you choose depends on your storage space and how many people you’re serving. Cast iron is heavy and requires room, so if you have a smaller space, but still routinely make dinner or special meals for large groups, consider getting a set of more than one.

Sizes range from single-serving 8-ounce pots to 5 quarts or more.

Finish

Cast iron for use over a campfire is necessarily left plain, but for use indoors you have more options. Enameled cast iron covers the interior of the pot as well as the exterior, with multiple color choices for the outside of the pot.

This finish also means you don’t need to worry about seasoning. It’s essentially nonstick.

What to look for in a quality cast-iron pot

Handles

Because of the weight of a cast-iron pot, there must be handles. These can help you safely maneuver a fully loaded pot on the stove.

Bonus points if these handles are heatproof. Cast iron gets hot and stays that way for a long time after it’s off the stove or out of the oven.

Pre-seasoned

If you opt for cast iron that is not enameled, pre-seasoning takes the work out of using your pot. A factory pre-seasoned pan has a thin coat of oil baked into the surface to make it nonstick right from the start. 

Well-fitted lid

The lid of your cast-iron pot keeps splatters out and moisture in the food. Some have ridges designed to return condensation on the lid back into the pot.

How much you can expect to spend on a cast-iron pot

Cast iron can be remarkably affordable or wildly expensive. The price varies based on the size of the pot and the brand, with pots available from $50-$400.

Cast-iron pot FAQ

Why is cooking with cast iron good?

A. Cooking with cast iron comes with a variety of benefits.

• It’s useful on all types of cooktops: It can be used in ovens and on every cooktop, from gas to induction.
• It adds a vital nutrient to your diet: Uncoated cast iron adds a small amount of iron to whatever you are cooking. This is especially beneficial if you are iron deficient or anemic.
• Cast iron retains heat: Chicken gets crispier and your searing is better in cast iron because the surface gets hot and holds heat.
• It's nonstick without chemical coating: When properly cared for and seasoned, cast iron rivals nonstick pans in its easy release. 
• It lasts forever: It may not actually last forever, but it’s certainly more durable than many other pots.
• Cast iron is affordable: Especially when compared to high-end cookware, cast-iron pots offer a solid performance at an affordable price.

Can cast iron be cleaned in a dishwasher?

A. Although your enameled cast-iron pot, and even your raw cast-iron pots, are technically safe in the dishwasher, this is not the recommended way to clean them. When it comes to raw cast iron, cleaning your pot with any kind of detergent removes the seasoning. This means you then need to re-season the pot before its next use.

And although enameled cast iron does not require seasoning, frequent trips through the dishwasher with even the mildest detergent eventually causes the enamel to flake. Likewise, utensils and other pots and pans rattling in the dishwasher can cause the enamel to chip or flake. 

Stick with hand-washing to keep your pots in top shape.

What’s the best cast-iron pot to buy?

Top cast-iron pot

Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron Signature Braiser

What you need to know: This 5-quart braiser is the perfect pot for special gatherings.

What you’ll love: Its heirloom quality is unmistakable. It’s beautiful enough to serve from. It comes in three other sizes and 12 colors.

What you should consider: It's very expensive.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Wayfair

Top cast-iron pot for the money

Bayou Classic Cast-Iron Covered Sauce Pot

What you need to know: Simmer soups and reduce sauces in this perfect lidded cast-iron pot.

What you’ll love: It has a domed lid that self-bastes and features two drip-free pour spouts. The 2.5-quart capacity is big enough for sauce work but small enough to store easily.

What you should consider: Some users found they needed to season it frequently to keep food from sticking. It’s also very heavy relative to its size.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Lodge Enamel Cast-Iron Casserole Dish with Lid

What you need to know: This is useful for a variety of applications, and it's made by one of the most trusted brands in cast iron.

What you’ll love: The wide, shallow shape makes it versatile for frying, braising or one-pot meals in the oven. It’s oven-safe to 500 degrees. It’s enameled and available in eight colors and a 3-quart size.

What you should consider: Because it's shallow, it doesn't work for soups or larger cuts of meat.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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In 2011, Nathan Myhrvold published the groundbreaking, multibook series “Modernist Cuisine.” In it, he deconstructed how food cooks and wrote what is arguably the authoritative last word on the best way to cook pizza: on a pizza steel. Also referred to as a baking steel, this heavyweight conducts heat more evenly and holds it longer for a crispy crust that stays chewy and tender.

If you want to use the pizza steel that Myhrvold himself recommends for its consistent performance, The Original Baking Steel Ultra-Conductive Pizza Steel is the one for you. 

What to know before you buy a pizza steel

Size

Pizza stones come in a variety of sizes, and a baking steel is no different. It’s best to get one that fits your oven, not the pizza. Just because you’re making pizza for one tonight doesn’t mean you’ll always be solo dining. A larger steel can accommodate more pizza.

The other measurement to keep in mind is its thickness. A thicker steel holds more heat and cooks a pizza faster, but it’s also heavier and often more expensive.

Weight

Steel is not a lightweight metal, and the thickness of this kitchen tool can really add up. Although most hover around 15 pounds, some can reach up to 25 pounds.

What to look for in a quality pizza steel

Finger holes

Because pizza steels weigh around 15 pounds, it can be helpful to have some assistance when retrieving them from the cabinet. Some have holes in two or more corners. These are designed to hook a finger through for easier maneuvering.

Pre-seasoned

As with cast-iron cookware, pizza steels need to be seasoned to maintain their nonstick surface. If you want to use your steel right out of the box, get one that is pre-seasoned. 

Lifetime guarantee

When you invest in a specific piece of kitchen equipment, especially one that is more expensive, you want to make sure it's going to last. The best pizza steals come with a lifetime guarantee against defects or poor workmanship. 

How to get the best results from your pizza steel

• Position your oven rack high up in your oven — on or around the second highest position — but be sure to leave room for putting the pizza in.
• Preheat your oven to 450 degrees for 45 minutes. It takes a while to completely heat the steel, but this step is critical for best performance.
• You’ll need to use a pizza peel to safely place your pizza on the steel. Dust it with flour or cornmeal so the pizza slides easily off the peel. 
• If you are using homemade dough, roll it out and transfer it to the pizza peel. Add toppings.
• Transfer the pizza to the baking steel with a quick motion. 
• Most thin-crust pizzas will cook on a pizza steel in less than 9 minutes. Baking times will vary depending on the thickness of the crust. 
• If you are using your steel for frozen pizza, baking times may be faster than indicated on the pizza box. Watch carefully. 
• Remove your pizza, turn off the oven and allow your steel to cool for at least 1 hour. Wear an oven mitt to remove it before cleaning. 

How much you can expect to spend on a pizza steel

Pizza steels are much more than just another metal baking sheet. For the thickness of the steel and the smoothness of the surface, expect to spend $89-$129.

Pizza steel FAQ

Does a pizza steel require special care?

A. Yes. To keep your steel from rusting, you'll need to clean it carefully and season it on occasion just like cast iron.

• After each use, clean with water only.
• Use a stiff brush to remove stuck-on food.
• Dry immediately with a paper towel or lint-free dish towel.
• Use another paper towel to rub a thin coating of olive oil on your steel before storing.
• If you notice that food is starting to stick, it’s time to re-season. 
• Scrub your steel with soap and dry completely.
• Wipe a thin coat of oil on the steel, then bake for 1 hour in an oven heated to 375 degrees.
• Allow the steel to cool before storing.

Can you use your pizza steel for anything other than pizza?

A. Yes. 

• Use your pizza steel to bake rustic breads and biscuits.
• Heat it on the stovetop for a large griddle.
• Cook naan using the steel as a makeshift tandoor oven.
• Freeze to serve ice cream.
• Chill to keep cold foods cold without ice.

What’s the best pizza steel to buy?

Top pizza steel

The Original Baking Steel Store Ultra-Conductive Pizza Steel

What you need to know: This is the original and still hands-down best pizza steel you can buy. 

What you’ll love: At 16 inches by 14 inches, this 15-pound pizza steel can handle a large pizza. It is up to 18 times more conductive than a pizza stone. Its bronze color stands out from other steels, too.

What you should consider: This is an expensive piece of equipment, so if you don’t eat a lot of pizza it may not be a great investment.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top pizza steel for the money

Artisan Steel High-Performance Pizza Steel

What you need to know: It’s pre-seasoned high performance at a lower price.

What you’ll love: It works to create evenly blistered thin-crust pizza. The surface is smooth and food releases easily. 

What you should consider: Some users reported that it rusted quickly, even with proper and regular seasoning.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

NerdChef Steel Stone

What you need to know: Finger holes in the corners make this easier to handle.

What you’ll love: The low-friction surface easily releases pizza when it’s ready to eat. It’s seasoned with flaxseed oil. It’s available in three thicknesses. It comes with a lifetime guarantee.

What you should consider: This weighs a whopping 23 pounds. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Avid gardeners know the convenience of a garden cart and the value of a comfortable place to sit while you work. The best garden carts with seats are large enough to transport what you need and have a seat that provides tailored support. If you want to bring plants, tools and even a bottle of water along with your seat, the Ames Lawn Buddy Rolling Garden Cart is the best.

What to know before you buy a garden cart with a seat

Size

Garden carts are between 20 and 30 inches long. Larger ones have more storage while smaller ones are usually lighter and more portable. Consider the height as well. You should be able to reach your garden without hunching or reaching.

Durability

Because garden carts are used outdoors, it's important they are made with weather-resistant, durable materials. Heavy-duty plastic can withstand rain and sun. Stainless steel is strong but can be prone to rust unless treated. Many carts use stainless steel axles even if the rest is plastic, to hold up over rough terrain.

The wheels should be solid molded plastic for maximum durability. These can be between 7 and 12 inches in diameter. Some have rubber surfaces or treads to go over larger rocks and sticks.

Ergonomics

If you'll be sitting on the garden cart for long periods, make sure it is designed with enough support. Most are backless but they can have molded seats. If you have a flat-seat cart, consider adding a cushion to make yourself comfortable. 

What to look for in a quality garden cart with a seat

Adjustable

The best garden carts with seats are customizable to accommodate all sizes and needs. Common places that can be adjusted include the seat and the handle height. This lets you change the cart's configuration based on where you are gardening as well for multiple people. Swivel seats let you move around without having to adjust the actual mechanics. 

Handle

If you're going to be wheeling your garden cart far, it's helpful to have a handle. This should be high enough to pull comfortably without crouching. Some lightweight carts do not have handles. At less than 10 pounds, they are light enough to be picked up. However, this limits what can be carried.

For maximum comfort, look for a cart with an extendable handle. These can fold down when parked and extend to a comfortable height for easy transport.

Storage

Some carts have multiple storage spaces, including under the seat. If you want the most storage, look for a larger cart that opens to offer additional space. Some have lids that double as seats and accommodate tall plants and tools when lifted.

If you plan to move around your garden, a cart with a removable tray can help. While these are usually on the small side, they're perfect for hand tools, seed packets and even some small plants.

How much you can expect to spend on a garden cart with a seat

They cost $50-$150. Storage features, size, materials and adjustability affect the price.

Garden cart with seat FAQ

What are other names for garden carts?

A. They're sometimes referred to as garden scooters or garden trolleys. Generally, scooters have less storage space and focus more on the seat. Wheelbarrows and carts can carry more, but they don't always include a seat. You can also look for lawn carts.

How much weight can a garden cart hold?

A. The weight limit varies, but most are between 225 and 350 pounds. Materials such as powder-coated steel and heavy-duty plastic can often support more weight. Look for a cart with bigger wheels and a sturdy base for the most hauling power.

What is the best garden cart with seat to buy?

Top garden cart with seat

Ames Lawn Buddy Rolling Garden Cart

What you need to know: It holds larger plants and tools for easy transport.

What you’ll love: The seat folds up to provide an ergonomic handle. When you're ready to work, the seat is wider than most others and has two built-in cup holders. The 7-inch wheels are connected by steel axles for maximum durability.  The interior is divided into three compartments to keep your tools, plants and snacks separate.

What you should consider: The seat is flat and doesn't provide any cushion.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Wayfair

Top garden cart with seat for the money

Fox Valley Traders Rolling Garden Cart Scooter

What you need to know: The molded plastic seat is ideal for those with back or joint pain.

What you’ll love: This budget-friendly option makes gardening much easier for your body.  Its bottom holds small tools within easy reach, while its seat is made of thick plastic and won't get worn down quickly.

What you should consider: There isn't space for more than a few handheld garden tools.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Sunnydaze Garden Cart Rolling Scooter with Extendable Steer Handle

What you need to know: It's fully customizable with an extendable handle, swivel seat and adjustable height.

What you’ll love: The basket can be removed for easy transport around the garden. It is powder-coated for extra durability while still being brightly colored.  There are two storage trays, one at the back and one under the seat. The heavy-duty tires are 10 inches in diameter and can travel over rocks, roots and uneven ground.

What you should consider: The basket is small and not great for transporting plants.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Hermit crabs are not generally picky eaters, but they need a healthy diet to keep them going for a long time. If you have these crustaceans as pets, the best food for them is Fluker's Premium Pellet Diet Food For Hermit Crabs. It’s natural and chock-full of essential proteins and other nutrients that can keep them from disease while ensuring they live a long life.

What to know before you buy hermit crab food

Main food sources

Hermit crabs are scavengers and opportunistic omnivores, meaning they eat nearly anything they can find in their environment. They primarily eat organic and natural foods, such as non-citrus fruits, vegetables and proteins. This includes:

• Collard greens
• Kelp
• Seagrass
• Algae
• Squash
• Apples
• Mangoes
• Melons
• Wheat germ
• Corn
• Broccoli
• Lentils
• Small fish
• Worms

In their natural habitat, these crustaceans also feed on plankton and other food particles floating nearby.

Feeding hermit crabs

When it comes to feeding hermit crabs, make sure the food is organic and natural. Also, use a variety of leafy vegetables, fruits and proteins. The food should not contain harmful additives or chemicals, as these can make the crustacean sick.

Hermit crabs are very sensitive to their environment, so make sure the aquarium and any dishes are clean, too. Use shallow plates that the crab can easily reach or climb into. The material should be nonporous so bacteria does not grow in it. Sturdy plastic or ceramic are good options.

Each day, throw away anything that wasn’t eaten. If you don’t, it could go bad and start developing bacteria or mold spores.

Hermit crabs tend to take tiny bites and eat slowly, so break up any food before feeding it to them. Many commercial foods, especially pellets, need to be crushed or sprayed with water to loosen them up so the crab can eat. Use clean, fresh water that’s free from chlorine. Having this type of water in the aquarium is also important so these crustaceans have something to drink, too.

Feeding frequency and amount

Hermit crabs usually eat at night. Although they can go up to two weeks without food or water, this is not recommended. Feed your pet proteins once a day to keep it healthy, or follow the instructions on the food packaging.

It’s generally best to supplement proteins or packaged foods with fresh leafy vegetables. As for fruits, give the crustacean a small piece one to four times a week.

Some foods list the recommended quantity per hermit crab. Oftentimes, 1 to 2 teaspoons a day is sufficient.

What to look for in quality hermit crab food

Form

When feeding a hermit crab, use fresh and clean fruits and vegetables. As for commercial foods, most come in one of the following forms:

• Pellets
• Powders
• Flakes
• Gels

Although these pets aren’t very particular when it comes to their food, some prefer one form over another. Others do best with a combination of two or more types, so experiment until you find what works.

Ingredients

Commercial hermit crab foods are usually rich in protein, such as from fish or chicken. Other common ingredients include:

• Corn
• Dried fruits, such as blueberries or grapes
• Dried vegetables
• Mealworms
• Eggs
• Shrimp
• Fish oil
• Coconut oil

These ingredients are meant to improve the hermit crab’s health and energy levels, as well as to reach the recommended dietary goals.

Certain foods and ingredients are harmful to hermit crabs. Some manufacturers indicate specifically on the label that their food does not contain anything toxic. Ingredients to avoid include:

• Ethoxyquin and coffer sulfate
• Avocado leaves
• Dill
• Garlic
• Onion
• Tea tree oil
• Thyme

It is better to take a more organic approach, since hermit crabs are especially sensitive to preservatives, additives and chemicals.

Supplements

Along with regular hermit crab food, you can also get supplements. These should not replace your pet’s main diet, but they can improve the quality or taste of the food. Some can add extra nutrients that crustaceans need.

Container

Commercial foods for hermit crabs usually come in small containers proportionate to the size of the food. These are often around the size of a salt or petter shaker and are measured in ounces.

On the container, you can find important nutritional information, such as the exact ingredients and percentages of crude proteins, fats, fibers and moisture content.

How much you can expect to spend on hermit crab food

Regardless of form, a single container usually costs less than $10.

Hermit crab food FAQ

Do hermit crabs eat wood?

A. These crustaceans enjoy many different types of wood, especially if it’s decaying, including birch, ash, cork bark and driftwood. In the wild, they also consume mangrove wood since it’s commonly found in and around wet terrain. Avoid giving your hermit crab wood from apple, mango, hemlock or yew trees, though, as these can have toxic bark.

Is calcium good for hermit crabs?

A. Hermit crabs need calcium because it supports the development of their exoskeleton. It’s especially important during the times when they molt. If your pet’s primary food doesn’t contain calcium, get a supplement and sprinkle it over the dish.

What’s the best hermit crab food to buy?

Top hermit crab food

Fluker's Premium Pellet Diet Food For Hermit Crabs

What you need to know: This high-protein food contains most of the key nutrients hermit crabs need.

What you’ll love: It comes in a 3-ounce container and is chock-full of fish meal, herring meal, dried whole egg and more. It has 45% crude protein, 10% fat and 10% moisture and does not contain any toxic ingredients.

What you should consider: The pellets are small and can be difficult to crush sufficiently, so it’s a good idea to spray them with water before feeding them to the hermit crab.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top hermit crab food for the money

JurassiDiet — Hermit Crab

What you need to know: This shrimp-flavored food also contains probiotics to support healthy digestion and a strong immune system.

What you’ll love: The formula doesn’t contain corn or soy. It’s packed with proteins, carbohydrates and essential vitamins, and also has fish meal, fish oil, wheat gluten and alfalfa meal.

What you should consider: At only 2.1 ounces, the container is small.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Florida Marine Research Hermit Crab Food

What you need to know: This powdered food contains high-quality ingredients and is easy to add to fresh leafy greens and fruits.

What you’ll love: This 4-ounce container has a long shelf life. The food also has 12% crude protein, 3% crude fat and 12% crude fiber. Unlike other foods, it doesn’t have any strong or unpleasant odors.

What you should consider: It does have copper sulfate which, in large quantities, could be harmful.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Angela Watson writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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Curious, charming and generally more active than lizards and snakes, turtles are a popular choice for people interested in keeping a quiet, low-maintenance pet.

Like all reptiles and amphibians, however, turtles need special attention paid to their habitat and diet to remain healthy. Thankfully, many pet food companies offer quality turtle food and treats that make providing your pet with nutrition simple.

Omega One Adult Turtle Sticks include whole ingredients that give your pet the nutrition it needs to maintain bright colors, healthy skin and a strong shell.

What to know before you buy turtle food and treats

Aquatic or terrestrial

Turtles that live in the water have very different eating habits than those that stick to land. Aquatic turtles, such as sliders or softshells, consume their food underwater and therefore require a diet that won’t soil their environment or dissolve too quickly to be eaten. Box turtles and tortoises, however, can be fed from a dish that can be easily removed and cleaned. 

Your turtle’s natural diet

Most turtles are omnivores, which means their natural diet consists of a combination of both vegetable matter and meat. However, even some vegetarian turtles will snack on the occasional earthworm or grub if the opportunity presents itself. To complicate matters more, some tortoise species are omnivorous until adulthood before switching to an exclusively vegetarian diet. 

Be sure to understand your pet’s dietary requirements so you can select food and treats that will meet their nutritional demands. Feeding a vegetarian animal too much protein can result in health issues.

Your turtle’s habitat and lighting

A nutrient-rich diet will do a turtle no good if its body is unable to properly digest it. To ensure that your pet remains healthy, you need to install special UV lighting that mimics the radiation that it would naturally absorb from the sun. Reptiles need this UV light to absorb vitamins and minerals.

Soft food vs. pellets

Land-dwelling box turtles and tortoises are sometimes fed soft, canned food. Picky eaters are especially drawn to its smell and texture. However, it can be messy and has a short shelf life after opening. Use pellets whenever possible to cut down on cleanup. If your turtle prefers its food mushy, you can add some warm water to its food bowl to soften things up.

What to look for in quality turtle food and treats

Quality ingredients

Ingredients derived from wheat and corn are fillers and should not make up the bulk of what you feed your turtle. Select a food that lists a whole protein, such as salmon or herring, as a top ingredient. Other good sources of natural protein include shrimp and poultry. Vegetarian turtles should be fed food that includes kale, kelp and other nutritional greens.

Clean feeding

A turtle’s diet should be supplemented with live prey items and fresh fruits and vegetables, depending on the species. The majority of your pet’s food, however, will be pellets. When it comes to aquatic turtles, you want to select a pellet that softens in water but does not disintegrate faster than your turtle’s ability to eat it. Food that falls apart in the water will make your pet’s environment dirty.

Vitamins

The most important vitamins a turtle needs are vitamins A and D3. Vitamin A is easily provided via pellets or sticks, while vitamin D3 is produced via basking in UV light. Feeding your pet a premium food will ensure that it gets the full range of vitamins it requires.

Calcium

Many captive turtles suffer from a calcium deficiency. This is usually due to a lack of UV rays. Supplements are available for those in need, but making sure that your pet’s primary food source has a high calcium content and that is has proper lighting should be a priority.

How much you can expect to spend on turtle food and treats

Depending on the size of the container, quality turtle food costs $8-$15.

Turtle food and treats FAQ

Can I feed my turtle live food?

A. Yes. Aquatic turtles especially enjoy hunting and many turtle owners provide them with live fish and insects to chase.

Can my turtle eat food made for people?

A. Don’t feed your pet turtle any processed snacks made for people. Stick to fresh vegetables, fruits and only foods that are made for turtle consumption.

Will my turtle eat from my hand?

A. Yes. Captive turtles aren’t nearly as shy as their wild cousins and most will eat readily from any food source available. Use caution, however, as an accidental bite from a hungry turtle can result in a painful pinch.

What are the best turtle food and treats to buy?

Top turtle food and treats

Omega One Adult Turtle Sticks

What you need to know: Packed with great ingredients, this healthy food is a favorite of aquatic turtles.

What you’ll love: Four out of the first five ingredients in this food are protein sources such as salmon, herring and shrimp. It is formulated for cleanliness to keep your tank’s water clean and your turtle’s waste at a minimum.

What you should consider: This food is marketed as a floating pellet, but some buyers find that much of it sinks to the bottom of the tank.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top turtle food and treats for the money

Fluker Labs Aquatic Turtle Medley Treat

What you need to know: This blend of natural foods is a great supplement to your aquatic turtle’s diet.

What you’ll love: With only mealworms, crickets and shrimp listed as ingredients, you can be sure that your pet isn’t eating any needless filler with this treat medley. It mimics your turtle’s natural prey and contains no artificial colors.

What you should consider: This is to be used as a treat only, not the bulk of your pet’s diet.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Mazuri Tortoise Diet 

What you need to know: These pellets provide mess-free nutrition for vegetarian tortoises.

What you’ll love: With hay listed as its first ingredient, this food is ideal for grass-eating tortoises from dry parts of the world. It contains no artificial ingredients and is high in vitamins A and E.

What you should consider: Buyers report that some tortoises show little interest in this food, especially when fresh veggies and fruits are readily available.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Derek Walborn writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

The first round of the BestReviews Parch Madness competition featured fierce competition, with 16 popular reusable water bottles going head-to-head. While all of the bottles have their merits, only the best could move onto the second round.   

That means eight bottles were eliminated this week in our bracket-style competition. The winners in BestReviews’ quest to find the best-of-the-best water bottle stood out for their durability, insulation and more.

What makes a great water bottle? 

When comparing these 16 water bottles for our Parch Madness competition, the BestReviews Testing Lab focused on seven key features to identify which water bottles should move onto the next round. 

Through rigorous testing, the Testing Lab found that the best water bottles won’t leak and are easy to sip from. They can keep your water cold all day and hold up to wear and tear for working out, hiking, camping and other activities. Testing also looked at which bottles fit easily in a car’s cup holder, so you can stay hydrated on your commute and road trip. 

Water bottles also earn top marks in our Parch Madness competition if they are easy to clean and keep free of mold and bacteria growth. Price also plays a role in the Testing Lab’s scores, so reasonably priced bottles get the edge.

HydroJug vs. Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle

These rugged water bottles have a leakproof design that makes them ideal for use on the go. Both bottles are also shatterproof and withstand wear and tear with ease. 

HydroJug: Made of durable plastic that's free of potentially harmful bisphenol A, this water bottle holds up to 64 ounces, so you don't have to refill it constantly. Its dual-function top is straw-compatible and features a built-in carrying loop. It's somewhat challenging to clean, though. It retails for $21.99. Sold by: Amazon

VS.

Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle: With a powder-coated finish, this stainless steel water bottle can take a beating, so it's ideal for hiking, camping and more. It features double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12. Unfortunately, it may be too large for some cup holders. It retails for $26.39. Sold by: Amazon and Home Depot

Who won: The Takeya took this battle. It earned top marks for its leakproof design, with a rubber cylinder inside the cap to create a tight seal. The cap also stays attached, making it easy to drink from. Best of all, ice lasted inside it for 24 hours, even with some exposure to direct sunlight.

Larq Self-Cleaning Water Bottle vs. Hidrate Spark Pro

These high-tech water bottles are designed to make your life easier. The Larq is ideal if you aren't a fan of scrubbing your water bottles, while the Hidrate Spark reminds you to drink to ensure you're properly hydrated. 

Larq Self Cleaning Water Bottle: This self-cleaning water bottle features a nontoxic mercury-free ultraviolet-C LED light to clean the bottle's interior, neutralize bacteria and sanitize your water. You only have to press a button to have clean water in 60 seconds. It's pretty pricey, though, retailing at $99. Sold by: Amazon

VS.

Hidrate Spark Pro: With a built-in LED smart sensor puck, this water bottle glows to remind you when to drink. It tracks your water intake throughout the day via Bluetooth and has vacuum insulation to keep water cold for up to 24 hours. The bottle doesn't always stay connected to the app, though. It retails for $89.99. Sold by: Amazon

Who won: The Larq emerged victorious. Its self-cleaning function worked better than expected, even eliminating flavors and odors from non-water beverages. It also has a narrow mouth that makes it easy to drink from even when walking and is extremely leakproof. 

Healthy Human Stainless Steel Water Bottle vs. HydroFlask

These stainless steel water bottles are highly effective at maintaining your beverage's temperature all day. They're leakproof and won't alter the taste of your water. 

Healthy Human Stainless Steel Water Bottle: This bottle is available in four sizes, ranging from 16 to 40 ounces. It features copper-coated, double-wall vacuum insulation to keep beverages cold for up to 24 hours. It's not dishwasher-safe, though. It costs $24.99-$32.99. Sold by: Amazon

VS.

HydroFlask: This durable water bottle is made of 18/8 stainless steel and has a honeycomb insulated cap to help with temperature retention. It's also dishwasher-safe, but its top is not very durable. It costs $24.49-$31. Sold by: Amazon

Who won: The HydroFlask comes out on top. The TestingLab loved the tight seal that prevents leaks and its ability to keep water cold for more than 24 hours. It also stood out for how easy it is to clean and its reasonable price. 

Yeti Rambler vs. Owala FreeSip

These insulated water bottles are excellent if you want to keep your water cold all day. They are easy to clean and come in various vibrant colors. 

Yeti Rambler: This 26-ounce water bottle is made of 18/8 stainless steel and features double-wall vacuum insulation that maintains the temperature of hot and cold beverages. The lid can be difficult to open, though. It costs $40. Sold by: Amazon

VS.

Owala FreeSip: This unique water bottle has a push-button lid that locks and a spout for sipping with a built-in straw or tilting back to chug. It also has a wide opening for adding ice and easy cleaning. It can't handle hot beverages, though. It costs $21.99-$37.99. Sold by: Amazon

Who won: The Owala was the victor. It doesn't leak, but it's extremely easy to open and sip from. It also has great insulation, fits easily in a car cup holder and holds up to wear and tear. 

Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle vs. Nalgene Sustain BPA-Free Water Bottle

These BPA-free plastic water bottles are lightweight and durable, making them ideal for everyday use. The Brita features a built-in filter, while the Nalgene is made of recycled materials for an eco-friendly option.

Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle: This filtered water bottle uses replaceable filters that remove chemicals, odors and flavors for up to two months. It can hold up to 36 ounces and fits most car cup holders. It isn't as effective at keeping water cold as other bottles, though. It costs $22. Sold by: Amazon

VS.

Nalgene Sustain BPA-Free Water Bottle: Weighing less than 7 ounces, this water bottle is easy to take on the go. It can hold cold and hot beverages and has a wide mouth for adding ice and easy cleaning. It scuffs easily, though. It ranges from $16-$17. Sold by: Amazon

Who won: These bottles tied, but our tiebreaking system gave the slight edge to the Nalgene. The Testing Lab found that the Nalgene is a better value because it’s more affordable per ounce than the Brita.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler vs. Simple Modern Insulated Tumbler

These insulated tumblers can keep your water cold and coffee hot all day. They feature double-wall insulation and are made of durable stainless steel. 

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler: This tumbler comes with a three-position lid and reusable straw for leakproof sipping. It also has a narrow base that fits most cup holders. But it's pricier than similar water bottles, retailing for $40-$66. Sold by: Dick's Sporting Goods and Amazon

VS.

Simple Modern Insulated Tumbler: This water bottle has a flip top and a straw lid, so you can choose how to sip. It is dishwasher-safe and can keep beverages cold for up to 24 hours. It has many nooks and crannies, though, so it can be tough to clean. It retails for $25.99. Sold by: Amazon

Who won: This matchup ended in another tie, but the Testing Lab ultimately found that the Stanley had the edge due to its superior spillproof technology.

Zulu Swift Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle vs. Contigo Ashland 2.0 Water Bottle

These sports water bottles are ideal for runners, cyclists or gym goers because they're sturdy enough for regular use. The Zulu is made of durable stainless steel, while the Contigo features crackproof plastic. 

Zulu Swift Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle: With double-wall insulation, this water bottle can keep your water cold for up to 24 hours without sweating. It also has a built-in coaster on the bottom. The lid's locking mechanism doesn't always work, though. It retails for $15.99-$19.99. Sold by: Amazon

VS.

Contigo Ashland 2.0 Water Bottle: This lightweight water bottle features one-handed spout operation, so it's easy to sip from when working out. It's dishwasher-safe and has fill lines to help you keep track of your water consumption. It's not as insulated as other bottles, though. It retails for $14.99. Sold by: Amazon

Who won: The Contigo bested the Zulu. The Testing Lab loved how easy the bottle is to drink from, allowing leak-free sipping even when lying down. It’s also easy to clean and holds up well to daily use. Ice can last over a day in it, too.

Bkr Little Smooth Glass Water Bottle vs. W&P Porter Glass Water Bottle

These glass water bottles are eco-friendly and keep your water tasting the way it should. They're dishwasher-safe, too.

Bkr Little Smooth Glass Water Bottle: This water bottle doesn't hold onto odors, flavors or stains like plastic water bottles. It also comes with a silicone sleeve that helps improve its durability. It can shatter if dropped, though. It costs $28-$48. Sold by: Amazon

VS.

W&P Porter Glass Water Bottle: Despite its glass construction, this water bottle is surprisingly lightweight and durable. It comes with a protective sleeve to cushion it if dropped. The lid can sometimes leak, though. It retails for $25-$30. Sold by: Amazon

Who won: The W&P stood out as the superior bottle. It doesn't leak when the lid is securely fastened and fits easily in a car's cup holder. It's easier to sip and offers a better value than the Bkr.

What's next?

This Monday, the eight first-round winners will face off in the next phase of Parch Madness. The bottles that emerge from this second round will go on to compete in the Final Four as we continue on our quest to find the best water bottle. 

Here’s the full schedule. Return to this page for each update.

• Thursday, March 16 - Sweet 16: Round 1 winners.
• Monday, March 20 - Elite 8: Round 2 winners.
• Monday, March 27 - Final Four: Round 3 winners.
• Monday, April 3 - Championship – and the best water bottles by category.

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Jennifer Blair writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

While March officially became known as Women’s History Month in 1987, courageous women have been fighting for rights and opportunities since the beginning of time. One of the best ways to gain insight is through reading, from history books that recount the stories of inspirational women, such as Abigail Adams and Rosa Parks, to fictional characters written by talented female authors.

Even though you don’t need to wait until March to celebrate the achievements of phenomenal women, it’s a great reason to cancel plans and cuddle up with an exciting book. So, whether you’re looking to learn about real-life heroines or get lost in a motivating fictional novel, we asked BestReviews book expert, Ciera Pasturel, to recommend the top books for children, teens and adults to read during Women’s History Month.

In this article: “Mae Among The Stars,” by Roda Ahmed, “Last Night at the Telegraph Club,” by Malinda Lo and “Lessons in Chemistry,” by Bonnie Garmus.

Women’s History Month and the importance of telling women’s stories

“Women's stories deserve to be heard and read,” said Pasturel. “From real-life heroes like Michelle Obama to fictional characters like Katniss Everdeen, books about and by powerful women are essential tales to inspire future generations of female leaders.”

The first unofficial celebration of women was a weeklong event full of contests and parades in Sonoma, California in 1978. After years of building on the hard work of many individuals and groups, congress proclaimed March 7, 1982 as Women’s History Week and eventually declared the entire month of March as Women’s History Month in 1987. 

Not only have women played a significant role in building the country, they also continue to create opportunities and inspire women, both young and old. But for years, girls have read womanless history books that have precluded female contribution to society. However, thanks to countless women who have gone before us, women are now being recognized as influential leaders or educated scientists, and that’s why it’s important to tell women’s stories.

Whether you’re staying up late to devour these inspirational stories or are reading them to your children or classroom, you’ll find a book for every circumstance. “The number of books celebrating Women's History Month is endless,” said Pasturel. “It is vital to continue to lift up and honor women who have changed history through the art of storytelling.”

Best books for children to read during Women’s History Month

“Play Like A Girl,” by Misty Wilson

When boys tell a girl they can’t do something, the only thing to do is prove them wrong. This book chronicles a young girl’s experience as the only girl on the town’s football team while learning about passion, teamwork and friendship.

Sold by Amazon

“Mae Among the Stars,” by Roda Ahmed

As the first African American woman to travel in space, Mae Jemison is the inspiration for this book written for young readers with big dreams. It contains gorgeous illustrations and inspiring words that are perfect for the classroom or as a bedtime story.

Sold by Amazon

“Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice,” by Nikki Grimes

With inspirational verses and stunning illustrations, this book recounts the phenomenal story of Kamala Harris, the daughter of immigrants and the first woman, Black person and South Asian American elected Vice President of the United States. It encourages young people to fight for each other and the American dream.

Sold by Amazon

Books for teens to read during Women’s History Month

“Squire,” by Sara Alfageeh and Nadia Shammas

Teens will love this fantasy graphic novel about a girl who dreams of becoming a knight and gaining full citizenship. But while undergoing rigorous training and navigating friendships, she has to choose between her heritage or loyalty to the empire.

Sold by Amazon

“Last Night at the Telegraph Club,” by Malinda Lo

In this story based in America in 1954, two teenage girls must navigate love during a dangerous time, especially for Chinese Americans. They battle for their place in the world in the face of deportation, citizenship and prejudice.

Sold by Amazon

“We Deserve Monuments,” by Jas Hammonds

Three girls learn about friendship, love and whether it’s more important to know the truth or keep the peace in this contemporary romance novel. It’s a slow-burn mystery exploring the effect of racial violence on generations of families.

Sold by Amazon

Books for adults to read during Women’s History Month

“Maame: A Novel,” by Jessica George

Follow along in this novel as it explores contemporary themes in modern life with humor, including racism, the complexities of love, friendship and familial duty. It also details the hardships of being torn between home and culture and celebrates finding where you belong.

Sold by Amazon

“Lessons In Chemistry,” by Bonnie Garmus

The main character of this historical fiction romance book is a gifted research chemist in the early 1960s. With the unpredictability of life, she finds herself a single mother and the star of a beloved cooking show who’s not just teaching women to cook, but challenging them to fight.

Sold by Amazon

“Know My Name,” by Chanel Miller

When she stunned the world with her letter giving her statement as a survivor, she was known as Emily Doe. Now she wants everyone to know her name and story while challenging beliefs about assault and encouraging fellow survivors.

Sold by Amazon

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Bre Richey writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

In addition to wearing green, decorating with shamrocks and planning an Irish-themed get-together, you may want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by making a traditional Irish recipe. 

A beef and Guinness stout pie is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that captures the essence of the March holiday. But if you’ve never made this tasty meal, you don’t need the luck of the Irish to achieve perfect results. We turned to BestReviews cooking expert, Andrea Boudewijn, for tips, her favorite recipe and product recommendations that will help you master this St. Paddy’s Day favorite. 

In this article: Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven, Babish High-Carbon German Steel 8-inch Chef Knife and John Boos Maple Wood Edge Grain Reversible Cutting Board.

What is beef and Guinness stout pie and what are its origins?

As you might expect from the name, beef and Guinness stout pie consists of beef with a pie-like crust. Boudewijn explained what to expect of the delicious Irish treat. 

“Beef and Stout pie is one of my favorite comfort foods any time of the year, but it's especially appropriate to make in late winter, right around St. Patrick's Day, as it's a traditional Irish dish,” she said. “Similar to American pot pie, this savory stew pie is baked in a Dutch oven and covered with a pastry. It's generally served in a single pot but could be adapted to make individual servings.”

Serving beef in rich broth or gravy with vegetables in pastry isn’t a new idea. Thought to have originated in ancient times, it was popularized in Britain hundreds of years ago. 

The Irish version typically includes beef, potatoes, carrots and onions stewed in classic Irish Guinness stout with herbs and spices. Although other stouts can be used, Guinness stout is a traditional favorite. In fact, the delicacy is often referred to simply as “Guinness Pie.” 

“Grab a Guinness or your favorite Irish stout and have fun putting together this delicious savory Irish beef and stout pie,” Boudewijn said, adding a few tips for excellent results. “Give yourself a few hours for prep and cooking. If making it for dinner, you'll want to start around noon. Enjoy it any time of year, but especially when you want to celebrate the Irish in your life on St. Patrick's Day.”

Boudewijn’s favorite beef and stout pie recipe

Beef and Guinness Pie

This Guinness stout pie recipe is sure to impress, especially when serving a special meal on St. Patrick’s Day. Boudewijn explained what to expect when making the dish, which serves 10. 

“For this pie, you'll be making two pie crusts and a thick stovetop stew to go between those crusts and sealed inside them,” she said, adding an alternative method can be used. “Another way to serve this is to put the finished stew in a bowl and top with baked rounds cut to the size of your serving bowls (just roll out your dough, flip the bowls upside down on the crust, and cut them out with a knife).”

Ingredients:

7 tablespoons olive oil

12 ounces white button mushrooms, quartered

1 1/2 cups frozen pearl onions, thawed

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

3 1/2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 cup all-purpose flour

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 1/4 cups Guinness Irish Stout

1 cup beef broth

1 pound carrots, cut into thick coins

12 ounces red potatoes, cut into large dice

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

2 premade pie pastries 

1 egg, beaten

Method:

1. Start with your largest Dutch oven (6 quarts or more — you'll need room to stir all the vegetables) and over medium heat add about a tablespoon of olive oil, the mushrooms, onions, and salt and pepper. Stir them occasionally and cook for 12 minutes or so, then transfer everything to a bowl to rest
2. Salt and pepper your beef well, then coat it in the flour and shake off any excess. Add more olive oil to the Dutch oven and over medium-high heat add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Transfer to a bowl to rest. Add 1/2 cup of water to the hot pot and deglaze it, scraping up the brown goodies at the bottom. This process might be easier done in two or three batches — make sure your beef has room to brown, and deglaze after browning each batch.
3. Still on medium-high heat, add the garlic and tomato paste and cook for about a minute stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic. Add the beef, Guinness, broth, and reserved liquid and stir to deglaze. Add the mushrooms, onions, carrots, potatoes and thyme and bring to a soft boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer it for about three hours (until the beef and veg are tender).
4. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. 
5. Thaw and combine the pie pastries to make a large 16-inch round, or at least a large enough round to lay over the top of the Dutch oven and allow for a 1-inch overhang. Seal the pastry around the edges — the pastry will fall in the middle onto the filling.
6. Cut three small slits in the center of the pastry, and bake for 30 minutes, then let it rest for 10 to 20 minutes.
7. Serve it warm (with a pint of Guinness, of course)

Best products for making beef and Guinness stout pie, recommended by BestReviews’ cooking expert

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven

Built to last and make cooking a breeze, this Dutch oven boasts an enameled finish that resists stuck-on food and cleans easily. The cast iron construction withstands temperatures up to 500 degrees. It comes with a lid that provides an excellent fit. 

Sold by Amazon and Wayfair

Babish High-Carbon German Steel 8-inch Chef Knife

The right knife will make quick work of preparing vegetables and other ingredients for your Guinness pie. Made of quality materials, this durable knife gets the job done and has a blade that maintains a sharp edge cut after cut. 

Sold by Amazon 

John Boos Maple Wood Edge Grain Reversible Cutting Board

Thanks to the strong maple wood construction, this cutting board is made to last and is perfect for slicing and chopping ingredients for your favorite recipes. It’s also reversible and easy to clean. 

Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair

KitchenAid Maple Wood-Handled Rolling Pin

Preparing homemade dough for a beef and Guinness pie is easy with a sturdy rolling pin. Made of solid maple wood, this tool has easy-to-grip handles that provide leverage while you work. 

Sold by Amazon and Wayfair

OXO Good Grips Wooden Corner Spoon

From stirring to serving, the right wooden spoon will serve several tasks when making Guinness pie and other recipes. This one is made of durable beech wood and features a square tip for scooping food from the edges and corners of cookware. 

Sold by Amazon 

Homearray Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set

A set of bowls will come in handy for mixing and storing ingredients. This one includes six bowls in different sizes for numerous uses. They are made of long-lasting stainless steel. 

Sold by Amazon 

Ozeri Touch Professional Digital Kitchen Scale

This highly accurate scale will simplify measuring ingredients so your recipes turn out perfect every time. It’s available in a wide selection of colors so you can match it to your kitchen decor theme. 

Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair

Accmor 11-piece Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons and Cups Set

You’ll be able to measure your ingredients for any recipe with this comprehensive set of spoons and cups. Each of the 11 pieces is crafted of long-lasting stainless steel and has clear measurement markings on the handles. 

Sold by Amazon 

Other top products recommended by the BestReviews team

• Libbey Craft Brews Classic Belgian Beer Glasses have a rounded bowl and tapered top that make them perfect for serving stout on St. Paddy’s Day.
• When it comes to serving stout pie, the Di Oro Spatula Set is a good choice. 
• If you are having guests over for St. Patrick’s Day, the Mikasa Delray 40-piece Dinnerware Set will make it possible to serve your beef and Guinness stout pie in style. 
• The Lodge Cast Iron Dutch Oven is another well-made model that’s available at a budget-friendly price. 
• The Lenox Portola 65-piece Flatware Set is both elegant and functional. 
• If you are looking for decorations for your home for St. Patrick’s Day, Glaring Pillow Covers have green graphics that are made for the holiday. 

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Jennifer Manfrin writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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St. Patrick’s Day doesn’t only mean wearing your favorite green clothing and going out with your friends to Irish pubs for St. Patrick's Day treats and drinks. It also means many retailers are hosting sales. You can snag the hottest items at a discounted price ahead of St. Patrick’s Day weekend 2023. We’ve got a list of some of the best active sales, but retailers will update their sales all weekend, so be sure to check online often to see if anything on your wish list has changed prices.

In this article: OKP K3 Robot Vacuum Cleaner, Fire TV Stick 4K and Sony WF-1000XM4 Wireless Earbuds.

What’s on sale?

If you look hard enough, you can probably find almost anything you want on sale for St. Patrick’s Day 2023. Amazon sells all kinds of products, so you’ll be able to find electronics, kitchen appliances, jewelry, apparel, toys and more. Wayfair has great sales right now on mattresses, furniture and kitchen products. DIYers will want to check out Home Depot sales, while those into sports and beauty products can find fantastic deals on Dick’s Sporting Goods and Sephora, respectively.

Best St. Patrick’s Day deals

OKP K3 Robot Vacuum Cleaner

Leave house cleaning duties to this robot vacuum cleaner and get more done throughout the day. It’s an absolute steal at 69% off and has an ultrathin design with plenty of neat features, such as four cleaning modes, a visible anti-spill box, voice assistant support and 100 minutes of cleaning time.

Sold by Amazon

Sealy Cool 12-inch Medium Hybrid Mattress

A good night’s sleep can significantly affect your day in many positive ways, making this hybrid mattress that can snag at 49% off an excellent buy this St. Patrick’s Day weekend. It has combined layers of gel-infused memory foam and support foam for extra cushioning and a breathable cover for increased comfort.

Sold by Wayfair

Milwaukee Lithium-Ion Cordless Combo Kit (10-piece)

This battery and tool bundle is the ultimate kit for handypersons and contractors. It’s on sale for 41% off, and you’ll get 10 M18 tools, two battery packs, two bags and a charger. The tools include a one-handed reciprocating saw, an impact wrench, a compact blower and multiple drivers and drills.

Sold by Home Depot

Fire TV Stick 4K

Transform any TV in your home into a smart TV with the Fire TV Stick 4K. You can get it now for 40% off and stream TV shows and movies from the most popular streaming apps, including Disney+, Netflix, Prime Video and more. Plus, it supports Dolby Vision, HDR and HDR10+ for a cinematic home-viewing experience.

Sold by Amazon

Sony WF-1000XM4 Wireless Earbuds

The WF-1000XM4 earbuds deliver impressive sound and excellent phone call quality and are on sale for 29% off. The battery life lasts up to eight hours on a full charge with noise-canceling enabled. The earbuds also support wireless Qi charging, and the IPX4 water-resistance rating makes them suitable for working out.

Sold by Amazon

Kiara Six-drawer 51-inch Dresser

This dresser is on sale for 64% off and has six drawers with wood paneling across the drawer faces for a modern, elegant look. It’s made with engineered wood with a neutral gray or white finish. It’s suitable for any bedroom, entryway or storage room, and the drawers have removable metal knobs.

Sold by Wayfair

Farberware 15-piece Cookware Set

This set comes with all the cookware you need to craft your favorite dishes. It has two saucepans, two skillets, a Dutch oven, a bakeware pan and five kitchen utensils. All cookware is oven-safe and dishwasher-safe. All the pieces have nonstick surfaces for easy cleaning and cool-touch handles. It's 50% off.

Sold by Wayfair

Bulova Classic Automatic Men’s Watch

A watch that looks this elegant is usually expensive, but you can snag this versatile watch right now for 54% off. The dial has a brown pattern and rose gold details. The leather strap makes it suitable for formal occasions, office wear and even casual summer outfits. The case is 42 millimeters thick and is water-resistant up to 99 feet.

Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

• If you live an active lifestyle, the Nike Women’s Pegasus 39 Running Shoes are excellent whether jogging or running errands.
• Keep your gaming station organized and charge your controllers faster with this OIVO PS5 Controller Charging Station.
• The NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill normally retails for $2,000 but is now on sale for 50% off, making it a must-buy for those looking for home exercise equipment.
• This Breville Compact Smart Toaster Oven offers eight cooking functions and has a broiling rack and a baking pan.
• Atelier Cologne Clementine California Pure Perfume is 67% off and is a citrus-based cologne with vetiver and juniper berry notes. 

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When it comes to event planning, decorations can fall by the wayside. The food, activities, location and invitees are usually what’s focused on. But without decorations, an event may as well just be a common gathering. 

Among the least expected decorations, and the most impactful, is a balloon arch. These beautiful creations can be used for anything from a spicy entranceway to a photo backdrop, and fit in perfectly with both casual and high-end event types.

In this article: Kawkalsh Balloon Arch Kit, Party Zealot Balloon Arch Kit and Bezente Party Balloons.

Balloon arch kit types

Balloon arch kits can contain several kinds of items, with many mixing and matching what’s included. For simplicity, they can be broken down into three types.

• Refill kits contain the fewest items and are often, as the name suggests, bought by those who already have some balloon arch kit materials. Typically, they contain adhesive strips like the ones the balloons are attached to or strips containing double-sided “glue dots” so you can attach your balloons to essentially anything. They might also include balloons, but this is uncommon.
• Starter kits contain most of what you need to build a balloon arch, such as poles, clamps, tools to help you quickly tie your balloons, adhesive strips and hooks to hang poles or balloons. Like refill kits, they also only occasionally include balloons. These kits may also include a hand pump for inflating balloons with air instead of helium.
• Complete kits do contain everything you need to make a balloon arch, including balloons. However, they typically only include what’s necessary to build one kind of arch. For example, one may include clamps and poles while another may include strips. Because how people want to fill their balloons varies, hand pumps are not guaranteed.

Air vs. helium

There are pros and cons to each of these common balloon-filling gases.

• Air-filled balloons stay inflated much longer, potentially up to two or three days. This makes them perfect for long-running events. You can also fill them for free, though you should get a pump of some kind so you don’t pass out from lack of oxygen by filling them with your breath. The downside is that they droop, making for a potentially lifeless-looking arch.
• Helium balloons don’t stay inflated for long, typically just three to six hours. You also need to buy helium, which can quickly get expensive if you’re planning a large arch. Finally, all those helium-filled balloons can pull your arch away if it isn’t properly secured. However, the almost lifelike quality of helium-filled balloons makes for a better arch, hands down.

Indoor vs. outdoor balloon arch kits

Whether you want to put your balloon arch inside or outside comes with certain considerations you should know.

• Indoor-placed arches can be more varied in their designs and placements. Instead of a classic arch, for example, you can do inverse ones that hang from the ceiling. They also don’t need to be too tightly secured, even if filled with helium, as they’re not being pulled and pushed by any wind or other outside force.
• Outdoor-placed arches can typically only be made in a standard way unless you’re particularly creative. They also need to be rigorously secured using weights, ties and or other methods to prevent them from moving under the effects of all the forces found away from enclosed shelters.

Balloon arch kits cost

Refill kits typically cost less than $10, though those with balloons may cost a dollar or two more. Starter kits typically cost $10-$30 depending on the quality of the kit and how much is included. Complete kits typically cost $20-plus, again depending on the quality and what’s included.

Best balloon arch kits

Party Zealot Balloon Arch Kit

This kit contains two table clamps, 10 1.36-foot poles with a combined length of 13.6 feet, 50 balloon clips and a hand pump for inflating your balloons.

Sold by Amazon

Coogam Balloon Arch Kit

This kit includes two balloon tape strips that are 16.4 feet long and can hold up to 110 balloons each, two tying tools, two glue craft strips with 100 dots per strip and 20 holder clips.

Sold by Amazon

Kawkalsh Balloon Arch Kit

This kit includes one roll of ribbon, one 16.33-foot balloon chain, one glue roll containing 100 glue dots and 108 balloons split among three sizes. There are seven single-color balloon kits and one multi-color balloon kit.

Sold by Amazon

Langxun Balloon Arch Kit

This kit includes 10 15-inch rods that make a 12-foot pole if all are used, two C-shaped plastic clips and 25 balloon ring clips. It comes in black or white.

Sold by Amazon

Monochef Balloon Arch Decorating Strip Kit

This kit only contains two rolls of balloon tape strips that are 16 feet each with 220 holes per roll and two rolls of balloon glue points that have 100 dots each, so it’s perfect for those who already have other balloon arch hardware. Please note that this kit does not include balloons.

Sold by Amazon

Simnuply Balloon Arch Kit

This kit contains one 16-foot-long roll of arch strip tape, two tying tools, 100 glue points on one glue roll, five hooks, one 32-foot roll of ribbon and 128 balloons split between four colors. There are five balloon color sets.

Sold by Amazon

Best party balloons

Bezente Party Balloons

This set includes one 33-foot roll of ribbon and 100 12-inch balloons made of environment-friendly latex, which also makes them more durable and gives them no strange odor. They come in 19 colors.

Sold by Amazon

Dusico Rainbow Party Balloons

This set includes 100 12-inch balloons with 11 each in nine colors (including one extra in one color): pink, red, orange, yellow, green, neon green, light blue, blue and purple.

Sold by Amazon

Pukavt Metallic Party Balloons

This set includes 50 12-inch balloons in assorted metallic colors that make them more eye-catching than most. The balloons last roughly 48 hours if filled with air and three to six hours if filled with helium.

Sold by Amazon

Rubfac Assorted Color Rainbow Party Balloons

This set includes 120 12-inch balloons with 10 each in 12 colors: red, orange, pink, white, yellow, purple, light purple, dark blue, light blue, dark green, fruit green and crimson.

Sold by Amazon

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There are several ways to protect your phone from water damage or cracking the screen from a fall. Most of the time, it could probably be prevented if you had a better grip on your gadget. But not everybody has lightning-fast reflexes and so could use a bit of help.

That's where a phone grip comes in. Through a strong adhesive, it sticks to the back of your device and gives you a handle of sorts. It dramatically reduces the chances of your phone slipping out of your grasp. An excellent choice is the matte black PopSockets PopGrip with Swappable Top.  

What to know before you buy a phone grip

Different design types

A phone grip has one primary function — to prevent the gadget from slipping out of your hands. However, several companies have come up with their own designs. PopSocket’s PopGrip is the most popular (and most common), as it is a retractable knob that folds flat. Others opt for a loop to slide your fingers through or a metal ring to hold. It's up to you to decide which design works best, factoring that some are more elaborately decorated than others.  

It’s best when used with a phone cover

A phone grip sticks to the gadget, but it’s much better if you use it in combination with a protective cover. While the sticky adhesive usually doesn’t leave any residue, it’s not a chance you should take. It is much easier to replace the cover than your phone. And in case the adhesive fails, you can somewhat rely on the cover to protect your phone from damage.

It can interfere with wireless charging

If you prefer to put your phone on a wireless charging pad, you might have problems if you have a phone grip. Unless it is specifically made to be compatible with wireless chargers, the phone grip’s bulkiness and the material will stop the electromagnetic powers from reaching your mobile. That’s also why it’s best to stick the grip on a cover, as you can easily pop it out and charge it.

What to look for in a quality phone grip

Strong adhesive

There will be no point in using a phone grip if it doesn’t stay attached to your mobile. A good-quality grip has a strong adhesive on the back so that it doesn’t detach easily. Where possible, test the adhesive qualities of a phone grip before using it, keeping in mind that you can’t replace the stickiness when it’s insufficient. 

Additional features

A phone grip is made to create a secure handhold, but some good-quality designs go one step further. The original PopGrip was meant to be a storage place for your wireless earbuds, and some still incorporate the idea. Other phone grips have tops that can open to store lip balm or smaller accessories, and others double up as kickstands. 

Solid materials

Protecting your phone from everyday mishaps is the job of the cover, but that doesn’t mean the phone grip should be made from inferior materials. A good-quality grip is made from hardened plastic that can take a beating, a soft silicone base that is easily removable, or robust metals that won’t snap as you hold on to your phone.

How much you can expect to spend on a phone grip

The average price of a phone grip depends on the manufacturer and any additional features, although most are relatively inexpensive. A fabric loop costs $8-$12, while the popular PopGrip costs $9-$11. It is often better to buy a bulk pack, as it’s a better value.

Phone grip FAQ

Does a phone grip work with tablets?

A. In theory, a phone grip should work with a tablet. But you must remember that a tablet weighs much more than a phone. In most cases, there are slightly bigger, more robust grips specifically for tablets.

Can you change the phone grip to a different design?

A. That depends on the grip, but some designs let you swap out the grip for a different color. With that said, not many manufacturers let you do that. 

What’s the best phone grip to buy?

Top phone grip

PopSockets PopGrip with Swappable Top

What you need to know: The PopGrip is perhaps the best-known grip for mobile phones, and you can’t go wrong with a classic design.

What you’ll love: The matte black grip has a textured finish on top, but it can also be swapped out for other designs. The PopGrip is compatible with all PopSocket phone accessories. And you can make it flat – you can simply twist the top 90 degrees and push it down.

What you should consider: The PopGrip sticks best to hard plastic cases and is not suited for silicone or waterproof cases. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top phone grip for the money

Syncwire Cell Phone Ring Holder Stand

What you need to know: This elegant ring is the perfect accessory for keeping your phone where it should be.

What you’ll love: Made from high-quality zinc alloy and metal, this elegant ring gives you a better grip on your phone for one-handed operation. The ring's color won’t fade, as Syncwire uses vacuum ion plating technology to prevent discoloration. The ring can rotate 360 degrees and tilt 180 degrees and the adhesive is strong enough to carry 11 pounds. 

What you should consider: As it’s made from metal, it isn’t compatible with wireless chargers.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

LoveHandle Phone Grip for Most Phones

What you need to know: This grip lets you securely hold your phone through a strap. 

What you’ll love: The LoveHandle works similarly to other grips, but instead of a ring or knob, it is a fabric loop that attaches to your phone. It is wide enough to hold with several fingers, and the adhesive (with an adapter) is compatible with waterproof phone cases.

What you should consider: If the grip is in the middle of the phone, it can interfere with wireless charging.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Not all decanters are created equal, so it’s important to know more about decanters and what to look for when buying one.

In this article: Ullo Wine Purifier with Hand-Blown Decanter, Vintorio Citadel Wine Decanter and Riedel Cabernet Decanter.

What are the benefits of decanting wine?

Is decanting wine worth the effort? These are some of the reasons to decant your wine.

• Improved taste and aroma: Wine decanters can help improve the taste and aroma of wine by letting it breathe. The process of pouring the wine out of the bottle and into the decanter exposes it to more oxygen, which helps soften tannins and release the wine's full bouquet.
• Smoother drinking: Decanting can make wine more flavorful, smoother and more enjoyable to drink.
• Separates sediment: Decanting helps separate sediment that may be present in the wine. While sediment isn’t a huge problem in most wines of a relatively recent vintage, you can also use a filter to remove sediment when you decant, if needed.
• Looks more aesthetically pleasing: Using a decanter can enhance the presentation of the wine, making it a more attractive addition to a dinner table.

What to look for in a wine decanter

These are some of the features to consider when buying a wine decanter:

• Capacity: Your decanter should be able to hold an entire bottle of wine, with a little room to spare for swirling and aeration.
• Material: Crystal or lead-free glass are good options for a decanter, as they’re durable and clear, letting you see the wine's color and clarity.
• Ease of cleaning: Look for a decanter that’s dishwasher-safe or easy to hand-wash.
• Appearance: A wine decanter can also be a decorative item, so consider its style and design, and choose one you like the look of.

Decanter shape and wine type

While you can use any decanter for any wine, some shapes do a better job with particular styles of wine: 

• Young red wines: A wide-mouthed decanter is best for these, letting the wine breathe and opening up its flavors. A decanter with a wide base and a sloping neck is a good choice.
• Old red wines: You should choose a narrow-mouthed decanter with a long neck for these. It releases the wine’s aromas in a slower, more controlled manner.
• White wines: A narrow-mouthed decanter is also good for white wines, letting the wine gradually aerate and release its aromas..
• Fortified wines: Fortified wines, such as sherry and port, are traditionally served in decanters with wide bases and narrow necks.

Best wine decanters

Ullo Wine Purifier with Hand-Blown Decanter

This hand-blown crystal decanter comes with a wine purifier that filters out sulfites. Some wine drinkers believe the sulfites in wine give them headaches and intensify hangovers, while others can taste a bitterness from these added preservatives. If these are concerns of yours, it's the perfect decanter. 

Sold by Amazon

Godinger Wine Decanter Carafe

With its wide mouth and wide base, this affordable hand-blown wine decanter is ideal for young red wines. It can hold a full standard bottle of wine, but without much room to breathe, so it's best to decant it in smaller quantities. 

Sold by Amazon

Rabbit Pura Decanting System

Not only is this decanter designed to aerate, improving the flavor, it also has a filtration system to remove sediment, which is ideal for old wines or natural, minimally fined wines. It holds a standard 750-milliliter bottle of wine.  

Sold by Amazon

Vintorio Citadel Wine Decanter

This decanter's large capacity makes it perfect for holding a full bottle of wine while allowing it plenty of room to breathe. The indented punt in the base offers better aeration and an easier pour. It comes with a stopper, perfect for keeping out debris. 

Sold by Amazon

Menu Winebreather Carafe

If you worry about spilling wine as you pour it, this decanter offers the perfect solution. You fit its neck upside down over the neck of your wine bottle, flip the whole thing upside down to decant, then remove the wine bottle when it's done.  

Sold by Amazon

Bezrat Wine Decanter

This cut crystal wine decanter's slim neck makes it a good choice for young reds, which benefit from releasing their aromas slowly. It has a classic design and comes with a handy glass stopper. 

Sold by Amazon

Riedel Cabernet Decanter

This decanter is specifically designed for full-bodied reds, such as the popular cabernet sauvignon. It has a simple yet elegant design and impressive clarity that lets you clearly see the nuances of color in your wine. It's dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is easy. 

Sold by Amazon

Riedel Performance Decanter

With a more rounded shape than Riedel's cabernet decanter, this is a great all-rounder that can improve any wine, red or white, young or old. It's large enough to hold a full bottle of wine and you can also buy matching glasses, with a range of options suited to different wine varieties. 

Sold by Amazon

Le Chateau Red Wine Decanter

The wide-mouth, wide-base design makes this decanter a great choice for young red wines. The slanted spout makes it easier to pour from. The wide base gives decanted wine a large surface area for maximum aeration.

Sold by Amazon

JoyJolt Golden Royale Crystal Wine Decanter

This large 50-ounce decanter is large enough to hold a standard bottle with ample breathing room. It's made from quality European crystal, lead-free, beautifully clear and conveniently dishwasher-safe. 

Sold by Home Depot

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There are many brands of top-load washers, and each has its own claims as to what makes its washers the best. But there are eight washer brands that consistently receive high praise from consumers.  

In this article: Kenmore 28-Inch Top-Load Washer, Hotpoint Top-Load Washer and Frigidaire High-Capacity Top-Load Washer.

What makes top-load washers popular

• More affordable: This is the most popular feature of top-load washers compared to front load washers. The agitators and overall design are less costly to manufacture than those of high-efficiency front load models.
• Short run cycles: Top load washers often have shorter run cycles that can be stopped to add clothes.
• A drier process: There are rarely mold or mildew issues, since water evaporates upward.
• Easier loading: For people with physical limitations, the best feature of top-load washers is that you don't have to stoop over to load them. You can remain upright and simply drop clothes into the drum from arm level. 

Potential drawbacks of top-load washers

Most top-load washers use an agitator mechanism that has several limitations.

• Smaller loads: Agitator-style washers have less room for clothes. They also can struggle with bulky items such as comforters and blankets.
• Rougher but less effective: The twisting motion of agitators may not clean clothes as completely as front-load models that use a tumbling approach. This style also can be rougher on delicate fabrics.
• Less efficient: Top-load washers typically use more energy and water. 

Each brand's pros and cons

• Frigidaire top-load washers have a sanitization feature, but aren't smart technology capable.
• General Electric is one of the leading brands for smart technology that connects with your phone. The washers offer a high number of cycle options. For some consumers, there are too many options to learn and navigate.
• Hotpoint washers are the most basic on the market. They are excellent options for anyone on a limited budget who still wants a reliable appliance that will last many years. The style is simple, and they only come in white.
• Kenmore has a long-standing reputation for durability, but still has a design from many years past that may not be modern enough for some users.
• LG is known for its technology and advanced wash cycles. Some LG washers have smaller capacities than those of competing brands.
• Maytag top-load washers consistently are ranked high for their quality, but they have a small number of models to choose from. 
• Samsung washers typically have a long, reliable life. They are some of the more expensive washers, and they have a short return period if you are dissatisfied.
• Whirlpool top-load washers have a reputation for thorough cleaning of clothes, and there are a lot of models to choose from. They have a lower spin speed than their competitors but that is not usually a top priority for consumers.

Best top-load washers

Kenmore 28-Inch Top-Load Washer

With a 4.2-cubic foot capacity, it can wash clothes and bedding. It features a triple-action agitator and has 12 wash cycles, including an express wash and bulky bedding option. 

Sold by Amazon

General Electric 5-Cubic-Foot Capacity Smart Washer

This washer features the Smart FlexDispense technology that holds up to 48 loads of detergent and dispenses automatically with each cycle. The washer is extra quiet and has built-in Wi-Fi capabilities. 

Sold by Home Depot

Frigidaire High-Capacity Top-Load Washer

This 4.1-cubic foot washer features a maximum fill option. It has five soil levels and a quick wash cycle when you're in a hurry. The stainless steel drum provides durability.  

Sold by Amazon

Maytag 4.5-Cubic Foot Top-Load Washer

The power agitator moves clothes 360 degrees to remove tough stains. There are two extra rinse cycles for extra cleaning and a sturdy three-knob console. It has a limited 10-year parts warranty. 

Sold by Home Depot

Samsung 4.5-Cubic-Foot Top-Load Washer

This washer has built-in technology to reduce noise and vibration. There are 10 preset washing cycles and five temperature levels. It has smartphone accessibility and a built-in water faucet for pretreating clothes. 

Sold by Home Depot

LG Large-Capacity Top-Load Washer

This 4.8-cubic-foot washer has TurboDrum technology for gentler cleaning. It has six motion selections for making clothes last longer. The SmartDiagnosis feature automatically connects to customer service.  

Sold by Home Depot

Whirlpool High-Efficiency Top-Load Washing Machine

This washer features a dual-action agitator and a stainless steel wash basket that prevents snagging. It has a 30-minute quick wash cycle, and you can select the water level for each wash. 

Sold by Home Depot

Hotpoint Top-Load Washer

With 10 wash cycles, this versatile washer is affordable and reliable. It has a deep rinse option, sturdy rotary electronic controls, bleach dispenser and four water levels. The heavy-duty agitator gets clothes clean. 

Sold by Home Depot and Amazon

General Electric Profile High-Efficiency Top-Load Smart Washer

This advanced technology smart washer has sensors for detecting soil and detergent levels. It has dedicated detergent dispensers and built-in Microban sanitizing technology. It has a 10-year limited warranty. 

Sold by Home Depot

Maytag Top-Load Washer with Deep Fill Option

You can customize the water level and the rinse cycle, and a drawer dispenser pre-mixes detergent with water so it cleans more thoroughly. The impeller rubs clothes together to clean without needing an agitator.

Sold by Home Depot

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If you're looking for a simple, timeless garment that can take you from the gym to the store to a casual night out, you can't go wrong with a crew neck sweatshirt. Sporty yet stylish, these classic sweaters pair with all kinds of outfits, from jeans to shorts to dresses. 

You might already have an idea of the kind of sweatshirt you want, but it pays to narrow down your options. The Champion Men's Powerblend Fleece Crew is a classic choice that's available in many hues. 

What to know before you buy a crew neck sweatshirt

Materials

What differentiates sweatshirts from sweaters is that they're sewn while sweaters are knitted. Most are made from the classic sweatshirt fabric that you'd instantly recognize, which is smooth on the outside and lightly fleecy on the inside. 

This material is usually a straight-up blend of cotton and polyester. However, the ratio of cotton to polyester varies. In some cases, it contains as much as 90% cotton and 10% polyester, while on the other end of the spectrum, it can be around 30% polyester and 70% cotton. 

The more cotton in a blend, the more likely the sweatshirt is to shrink slightly in the wash. It's wise to size up if you choose a high-cotton blend. 

Sizing

Although there's nothing inherently gendered about sweatshirts, manufacturers still usually divide them into "men's" and "women's" categories, although some make unisex options. Naturally, people of any gender — or none — can wear any sweatshirt they prefer, as long as they pay attention to differences in sizing. 

Sweatshirts for men tend to run slightly larger than sweatshirts for women. So, expect a men's XL to be bigger than a women's XL. Unisex sizing varies but is more likely to be closer to men's sizing than women's. You'll sometimes find women's sweatshirts are cut more generously in the chest, but this isn't always the case. 

You'll also find plenty of kids' crews if you're buying for a child in your life. These are usually sold in age-related sizes, so it's easier to get the right fit. Of course, you need to adjust for kids who are smaller or larger than average for their age. 

What to look for in a quality crew neck sweatshirt

Cuffs and hem

If you want a sweatshirt with a classic, retro silhouette, choose one with ribbed, elasticated cuffs and hems. However, you can also find sweatshirts with loose, open cuffs and hems, which some buyers prefer the look of or find more comfortable. 

Brands

Many big sportswear brands make sweatshirts. While choosing a name brand isn't a guarantee of quality, you're more likely to get a well-made garment than you are from an unknown manufacturer. 

Color

Most sweatshirts are solid-colored, although you can occasionally find prints. You can find them in practically any hue, but you may need to shop around to find less popular shades. 

Washability

Sweatshirts often get a lot of wear, especially in cooler months, so they must be easy to wash and dry. It's rare to find ones that aren't machine washable, but some need air drying, which can be inconvenient.

How much you can expect to spend on a crew neck sweatshirt

An average crew costs around $20-$50, but like most clothing, prices can range much higher. If you want a designer sweatshirt, you could pay anywhere from $100-$1,000. 

Crew neck sweatshirt FAQ

What is a crew neck sweatshirt? 

A. It's a collarless sweatshirt with a rounded neckline. The neckline sits relatively high, as opposed to a scoop neck or a deeper round neck. Not all crew neck garments are sweatshirts. You can also find crew neck sweaters and crew neck T-shirts. The term dates back to 1939 and was named after the type of sweaters worn by people who rowed crew. 

How should a crew neck fit? 

A. It should fit snugly around the hips to keep warmth in, but it can be looser on the body and around the chest. The elasticated hem found on many sweatshirts makes it easier to achieve this fit. Of course, it's down to the individual how they want their clothing to fit, so it's fine to have a tighter or baggier fit if you prefer. 

What’s the best crew neck sweatshirt to buy?

Top crew neck sweatshirt

Champion Men's Powerblend Fleece Crew

What you need to know: This classic sweatshirt is great for working out or casual wear. 

What you’ll love: You can choose from a huge range of colors, including team gold, maroon, hiker green and Oxford gray. The wider ribs in the cuffs and hem help them lay flat. It has a subtle Champion C logo on the chest and one on the sleeve. 

What you should consider: The fabric is on the thin side, so it isn't a great cold weather sweater. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top crew neck sweatshirt for the money

Gildan DryBlend Adult Set-in Crew Neck Sweatshirt

What you need to know: Affordable with a classic sweatshirt silhouette, this unisex crew is a versatile choice. 

What you’ll love: It's made from a light, pill-resistant cotton-polyester blend. You have a choice of 14 colors, including cardinal red, forest green and safety orange. Sizes range from S to XXL. 

What you should consider: Some buyers say these shirts run small and others say they run large, so it's a good idea to check the sizing chart before buying. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Adidas Women's Essentials Three-Stripes Fleece Sweatshirt

What you need to know: With the iconic Adidas three-stripes down the sleeves, it's both stylish and practical.

What you’ll love: It's made from a blend of cotton, polyester and viscose, which gives the material some stretch and a soft, fleecy interior. You can choose from seven colors, including halo blush, victory crimson and black, all with contrasting stripes and a logo. 

What you should consider: Some colors look darker in real life than they do on the screen.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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As Microsoft maneuvers to battle the Federal Trade Commission over a $69 billion all-cash transaction to purchase Activision Blizzard, the company has been partnering with companies, such as Nintendo, Nvidia and Steam, to appease antitrust regulators. Its latest partnership involves a deal with the world’s biggest independent cloud gaming provider: Boosteroid. 

In this article: Dowinx Gaming Chair, HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset and Razer Naga Trinity Gaming Mouse.

How do partnerships help appease the FTC?

The FTC's biggest concern is Microsoft is creating conditions that could restrict other companies from competing in the same space. For instance, if it acquires Activision Blizzard and the hugely popular Call of Duty franchise, it could limit the consoles on which the game is played. It could also harm competition in subscription and cloud gaming spaces.

By partnering with companies such as Boosteroid for the next decade, the company hopes to prove to the FTC that limiting access and eliminating competition are not part of the company's plans. According to the Associated Press, Microsoft President Brad Smith said that this latest agreement makes “more clear to regulators that our acquisition of Activision Blizzard will make Call of Duty available on far more devices than before." 

What is ​​Boosteroid?

If you've ever dreamed of playing your favorite games at 60 fps in full HD 1080p on a PC, laptop, tablet, Android TV or phone, then you'll be interested in Boosteroid. It's a cloud gaming platform with research and development operations based in Ukraine (mostly Kyiv and Kharkiv). Subscribers have two-click access to high-end video games wherever they have 15 Mbps of a stable internet connection.

There is no downloading or installing; all games can be played via a browser and are available 24/7. There is no time limit on gaming and hundreds of top games are available. While there are many free options, you do have to purchase popular or current games before playing.

Best products for gamers

Alienware Aurora R14 Liquid Cooled Gaming Desktop

A powerful gaming computer is a top priority for serious players. This model has everything the modern gamer needs, from a wicked-looking design to high-level performance with 12-core AMD Ryzen processors. 

Sold by Amazon

Asus Rog Strix Scar 15 Gaming Laptop

If you prefer something a little more compact, a gaming laptop might be a better fit. Besides power to drive smooth graphics and sublime streaming, this model has intelligent cooling to keep everything running at top speed.

Sold by Amazon

Dowinx Gaming Chair

Some gamers sit in front of the screen for several hours at a time. This level of commitment requires a comfortable gaming chair. The Dowinx features a 360-degree swivel, 165 degrees of reclining, a retractable footrest and other comfort features.

Sold by Amazon

TP-Link AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Router

This gaming router works with all internet providers and offers advanced security with a subscription to TP-Link HomeCare. The router has one 2.5 Gbps WAN port, eight 1-Gigabit LAN ports and two USB 3.0 ports (Type A and Type C).

Sold by Amazon

Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 Rapidfire Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

This gaming keyboard has an aircraft-grade, anodized, brushed aluminum frame for the ultimate in durability. The multicolored RGB backlighting lets you customize color, while the keys offer lightning fast 1.2-millimeter actuation to give you a gaming advantage.

Sold by Amazon

HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset

Great gaming headsets put you in the center of the action. The high-quality audio and 7.1 virtual surround sound of this headset allows you to enjoy immersive audio while the detachable, noise-canceling microphone ensures you can always be clearly heard.

Sold by Amazon

Razer Naga Trinity Gaming Mouse

This gaming mouse is superior to a regular mouse in more ways than just performance speed and accuracy. It has three interchangeable side plates with two-, seven- and 12-button configurations. You can remap and assign complex macro functions to get even more of an edge.

Sold by Amazon

Razer Wolverine Ultimate Officially Licensed Xbox One Controller

If you're looking for an Xbox One controller, this popular model has interchangeable thumb sticks and two interchangeable D Pads for customization. The controller also has two re-mappable multifunction bumpers, four multifunction triggers and a quick control panel that can be adapted to your playing style.

Sold by Amazon

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If you're looking for a garment that's simple yet stylish, a Champion sweatshirt is a safe bet. These versatile sweaters are great for everyday wear, working out or playing sports. You can choose from a range of styles and colors, so there's something for most buyers. 

Perhaps the first thing to do is decide what style of sweatshirt you're looking for before moving on to finer details, such as the color or logo. The Champion Men's Reverse Weave Crew is a trendy choice with a retro twist. 

What to know before you buy a Champion sweatshirt

Sweatshirt style

Common styles include crew necks, hoodies, mock turtlenecks, zippered sweatshirts and cropped sweatshirts. 

• Crew: Crew sweatshirts have classic rounded crew necks. If you're looking for a simple item of clothing, you can't go wrong with this. Many are cuffed at the sleeves and hem for a retro silhouette. 
• Hoodie: Champion hoodies are great for casual wear or athletic wear. Not only do they look great, but they also keep you warm on cool days. You can find both pullover hoodies and zippered hoodies, although the former are more common. 
• Mock turtleneck: Mock turtleneck sweaters have raised collars that are slightly looser than regular turtlenecks and don't turn over. You may choose them purely for aesthetics or also keep your neck warm. 
• Zippered: As well as zippered hoodies, Champion makes zippered sweaters without hoods. Although you can find some with full zippers, quarter-zippers are more common. 
• Cropped: Cropped at the waist, these sweaters are stylish alternatives to standard-length sweaters. They're not the most practical for sports or for keeping warm, but they look good.

Sizing

Champion garments come in standard straight sizes, plus-size, big and tall sizes and kids sizes. If you're not sure which size will fit, there's a sizing chart that you can consult. 

• Straight sizes: These sizes are found in the standard range. They usually run from extra-small to 2XL or 3XL, depending on the sweatshirt. 
• Plus-size and big and tall: For sizes outside the standard range, look for women's plus-size or men's big and tall garments. These run to somewhere between 4X-large and 6X-large. 
• Kids sizes: Champion also makes sweaters for children, with a range of sizes available for little kids and big kids. 

What to look for in a quality Champion sweatshirt

Materials

Most Champion sweaters are made from a cotton-poly blend. The heavier, higher-quality offerings tend to have a significantly higher ratio of cotton to polyester. 

Color

You can find these sweatshirts in a wide range of colors. You have simple favorites, such as black, gray and navy, as well as brighter hues, such as red, pink and yellow. Occasionally, you'll find them in prints, as well as solid colors. 

Logo

Champion has two logos: the compact C logo and the longer script logo. Some buyers have a strong preference for one over the other, while others don't mind. You'll also notice that the logo is much smaller and more subtle on some sweaters than on others. Again, this is a matter of personal preference. 

Side panels

Some sweaters below the armpits. These are usually ribbed or stretchy and offer wearers a greater range of motion. 

Machine-washable

Luckily, Champion garments are machine-washable and most are also tumble-dryer-safe. However, you should check the label for full washing instructions. 

How much you can expect to spend on a Champion sweatshirt

Most cost roughly $20-$60, but you can find some styles and color combinations for as much as $80. 

Champion sweatshirt FAQ

Why did Champion get so popular? 

A. Although Champion has been around since 1919, it hit a peak in the 1990s when it became popular streetwear. Its recent resurgence may be because '90s and '00s fashion is back in style. It could also be down to the number of cool collaborations Champion has done with popular designers in recent years. Whatever the reason, it's now trendy to wear Champion clothing again. 

Are Champion sweatshirts unisex? 

A. Champion sells its sweatshirts as either "men's" or "women's" so they aren't officially unisex. However, clothing has no inherent gender, so you can choose to wear whichever you prefer. In some cases, the cut is different, but the main variation is in the sizing. 

Are Champion sweatshirts true to size? 

A. Yes, on the whole, they're true to size. While some of the more retro styles have a slightly boxy cut, you shouldn't have any issues if you choose your usual size.

What’s the best Champion sweatshirt to buy?

Top Champion sweatshirt

Champion Men's Reverse Weave Crew

What you need to know: Simple and stylish, this crew neck sweater is based on a retro design. 

What you’ll love: It's made from heavy, durable reverse weave fabric. It has an understated Champion C logo and comes in a wide range of colors, from black to tinted lavender to blue jay. The rib side panels give you an excellent range of motion.

What you should consider: Some colors look quite different in person than they do on a screen. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top Champion sweatshirt for the money

Champion Women's Cropped Reverse Weave Crew

What you need to know: Slightly cropped, this is an excellent variation on a classic crew sweater. 

What you’ll love: It's made from warm, heavyweight reverse weave material. The Champion C logo shows off the brand without being over the top. You can choose from a range of colors, including wildflower blue and thermal green. 

What you should consider: The sleeves are slightly longer than expected, so shorter wearers may need to roll them up. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Champion Men's Powerblend Fleece Hoodie

What you need to know: This hooded sweatshirt is perfect for casual wear. 

What you’ll love: The comfortable fit  means you won't feel restricted. It has a script logo on the left chest and a C logo on the left arm. Color choices include black, oxford gray, blue and more. It has a front kangaroo pocket.

What you should consider: The arms are slightly baggy compared to the rest of the fit. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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No matter what you pair your long-sleeved bodysuit with, it can help you streamline your ensemble. While tops can bunch at the waistband of your favorite skirts and pants, a bodysuit stays taut for an always-perfect veneer.

They come in many styles, from button-ups to form-fitting designs that show off your shape. However, the best ones give you a comfortable bottom closure with added benefits, such as tummy control. The Yummie Madelyn Seamless Bodysuit is a top choice because it has a compression waist with an ultra-flattering fit.

What to know before you buy a long-sleeved bodysuit

About long-sleeved bodysuits

A long-sleeved bodysuit is a top with attached briefs to ensure it stays tucked into your bottoms. They are especially useful when you pair them with a form-fitting skirt, pants or jeans because they help maintain a polished, put-together look. 

A common concern with bodysuits is getting in and out of them. If the crotch has a snap closure, the snaps must be strong enough to withstand your every bend and stretch. Otherwise, they can come apart at inopportune moments. Conversely, a pull-up design without snaps requires you to completely disrobe each time you need to use the restroom. There is no definitive answer to which model is better — it's your choice.

Long-sleeved bodysuit necklines

There are nine primary necklines for long-sleeved bodysuits.

• Crew neck: This round style lands at the base of your neck. 
• Square neck: This rests a partial square on your chest. 
• Round neck: This sits high on your chest and shows some of your collarbones. 
• V-neck: This lands a V anywhere on your chest. 
• Cowl neck: This round design gives you a draped neck that rests at any point on your chest. 
• U-neck: This places a U anywhere on your chest. 
• One shoulder: This has a sleeve on one side and is sleeveless on the other.
• Turtleneck: This encases your neck with extra material you can fold or scrunch. 
• Mock neck: This envelops the lower portion of your neck.

Finding your bodysuit size

To ensure that your long-sleeved bodysuit fits, take and record your measurements, then compare them to the manufacturer's sizing chart. There are four steps to correctly measuring your body. 

1. Chest: Measure your bustline at its largest circumference. 
2. Waist: Wrap the measuring tape around the smallest part of your waist, typically around your navel. 
3. Hips: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and wrap the measuring tape around the largest part of your backside. 
4. Length: Place the beginning of the measuring tape on the top of your shoulder. Then thread it between your legs and loop it up to meet the beginning of the measuring tape.

What to look for in a quality long-sleeved bodysuit

Compression material

If you want a skin-tight long-sleeved bodysuit, it's helpful to get one with compression material that contours your body and enhances your shape. You can find them with the material added to one area, such as the abdomen, for tummy control or to the entire bodysuit for all-over firming.

Seamless bottom

Bodysuits' bottom portions come in various styles, such as thong, brief and cheeky. Regardless of its bottom type, it should be seamless, so you don’t have to contend with unsightly panty lines. After all, for many, the whole point of wearing a bodysuit is to eliminate excess lumps and bumps.

Secure bottom closure

A bodysuit should have a closure that's comfortable and easy to manage as you put it on and take it off. There are three types. 

• Snap: This has a row of two or three snaps that should take a little effort to pull apart, ensuring it won't pop open unexpectedly.
• Hook-and-eye: This is similar to a bra's closure and comes with two or three hooks that connect to corresponding eyes for a secure fit.
• Solid: This maintains a solid crotch for those who prefer to get in and out of their bodysuit from its top.

How much you can expect to spend on a long-sleeved bodysuit

While brand, materials and features can affect the price, a high-quality bodysuit typically ranges between $20-$60. However, some designer pieces can cost $100-$250.

Long-sleeved bodysuit FAQ

Should you wear underwear with your bodysuit?

A. That’s your choice. However, if the crotch has a gusset — a breathable piece of cotton fabric that protects you from the bodysuit's material — it's safe to wear it without underwear.

How should you wash your bodysuit?

A. To prevent it from fading and pilling, wash it by hand in cold water with gentle detergent and lay it flat to dry. 

What's the best long-sleeved bodysuit to buy?

Top long-sleeved bodysuit

Yummie Madelyn Seamless Bodysuit

What you need to know: This high-necked compression bodysuit hugs your midsection for an ultra-flattering fit.

What you'll love: It has a seamless full-back bottom for a comfortable, panty-line-free fit and gives you a quick, easy snap closure at the crotch. It's machine-washable and comes in in four colors, in sizes S-XL.

What you should consider: Some reviewers mentioned that it runs a little small and suggested sizing up.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top long-sleeved bodysuit for the money

Irisnaya Shapewear Bodysuit

What you need to know: This breathable turtleneck bodysuit gives you a snug but comfortable fit from top to bottom.

What you'll love: It slims your arms, waist and hips. The seamless backside offers some coverage, and the crotch has a hook-and-eye closure. It's hand-washable for easy care, and it comes in sizes S-3XL.

What you should consider: Some people reported that this bodysuit runs about a size too small and suggested sizing up.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Didk Sexy Backless Lace Appliques Long-Sleeved Bodysuit

What you need to know: This super-sexy bodysuit has a full-coverage front and an open back.

What you'll love: It has a rounded neckline, a button closure that sits behind your neck and a delicate lace trim around its open back. It's a pullup design with a full-coverage backside, and you can wash it by hand. It comes in nine colors, in sizes XS-XXL.

What you should consider: Some buyers said its material is a little thin.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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However, when planning to get away for a weekend, an automatic feeder ensures that your pets have enough food and water. Most of them are great for dry food, such as kibble and snacks, but only a few are suitable for wet food.

In this article: Petlibro 25-Cup Automatic Feeder, PetSafe 5-Meal Cat Food Dispenser and Wopet Automatic Dog Food Feeder

Preparing for your vacation

Before you go on away, you must prepare your pet and the automatic feeder. There is no telling what will happen if something goes wrong, and you can’t rely on the feeder working flawlessly without anybody checking up on it. It's always best to ask a friend or relative to ensure everything is as it should be. 

In addition to running the feeder while you are home, train your pet with it to see how your furry friend reacts. Some animals take a while to get used to the internal components churning. Cats, especially, are cautious of anything strange and might be hesitant to go near it. This will be disastrous if you go out of town and your pets don’t want to eat from the feeder.

Different kinds of automatic feeders

There are generally two kinds of feeders, and your pet could be more comfortable with one type than the other. The technology can also vary, with high-end models having a small display to indicate the feeding intervals and the amount to dispense:

• Top feeders house the food in a receptacle and let gravity do the work at dinner time. There is an opening at the top for you to place more food, and there is usually a mechanism to help push the food down the chute.

• Rotational or static feeders are less complex, but they still get the job done. These are usually circular gadgets (about the size of iRobot’s Roomba) with several compartments for food. Once the timer is set, each compartment opens at regular intervals. 

One of the most significant challenges for automatic feeder owners is making sure pets get enough food. If you have more than one, this is a daily struggle, as one could try to out-eat the other. There is an ultra-advanced option to combat this, where the feeder only unlocks or opens when it detects a certain pet chip or tracker. 

Best automatic pet feeders for cats

Petlibro 25-Cup Automatic Feeder

This is a high-end solution for keeping your cats fed, with an LCD display for setting up a schedule and a feeding capacity of 50 meals. It has an infrared camera so you can see your pets at night and a twist-lock lid to keep dry food crunchy.

Sold by Amazon 

PetSafe 5-Meal Cat Food Dispenser

This is the perfect feeder if you want something that isn’t too complex. It has five meal compartments and automatically rotates to the next opening based on the programmed schedule.

Sold by Amazon

PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Feeder for Cats

This feeder lets you schedule up to 12 meals a day and is perfect for cats of any size. The portion sizes can range from a few bites to four cups per meal, and there are several programming options.

Sold by Amazon

Arf Pets Automatic Cat Feeder

To make feeding time easier, this dispenser can supply your cat with between one and 10 meals a day. Meals can easily be scheduled over four alarm periods, and it has a magnetic lock lid to keep curious felines out. In case of a power outage, it can also operate on disposable batteries.

Sold by Amazon

Veken Automatic Cat Feeder

Another high-tech option, this automatic feeder has customizable feeding schedules, a battery backup system and a 360-degree transparent food storage container. An LCD display shows the time and feeding options, and you can record a voice message for when it’s dinner time.

Sold by Amazon

Best automatic pet feeders for dogs

Wopet Automatic Dog Food Feeder

With up to four scheduled feedings a day, this has a customizable portion size selector that ranges from a few teaspoons of food to four cups. The removable tray at the bottom is machine-washable and the storage compartment can hold 20 cups of dry food.

Sold by Amazon

PetSafe Smart Feed For Dogs

The dog food feeder is also suitable for cat, and can hold a maximum of 24 cups. It dispenses between a few teaspoons and four cups in a single feed. It doesn’t have a display like others, but you can easily program the feeding schedule through the Wi-Fi-enabled mobile app.

Sold by Amazon

Pawzone 2-Pack Automatic Feeder With Water Dispenser

If you prefer a low-tech approach, this automatic feeder is excellent. It doesn’t use complex systems but relies on gravity instead. The two-pack consists of a water dispenser and a feeder suitable for both cats and dogs. It can hold about six pounds of food and about a gallon of water.

Sold by Amazon

PetSafe Digital 2-Meal Programmable Pet Feeder

This automatic feeder is perfect for when you’re only going away for a short time. It holds two meals and can easily be programmed to open at specific times. Each compartment is sealed with a pet-proof lid and can store almost two cups of food.

Sold by Amazon

Petory Timed Automatic Dog Feeder

This feeder has a digital timer so you can schedule up to six meals a day, ranging from one to 50 portions of half an ounce each. The storage compartment has a small window to keep track of food levels, and it can hold about 17 cups.

Sold by Amazon

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In this article: Peter Thomas Roth Mud Mask, New York Biology The Ultimate Cosmeceuticals Mud Mask and Cetaphil Clay Mask.

Mud masks for treating acne

All mud masks are effective ways to treat minor-to-moderate cases of acne. However, if your acne is on the stronger side, consider using masks with extra ingredients, such as activated charcoal, or masks marketed as exfoliating. Activated charcoal masks can give your skin a deeper and more detoxifying clean, while exfoliating masks can remove dead skin cells and other surface-level grime.

You can also consider using a clay mask rather than a mud one. Compared to mud masks, which lean more toward healing and nourishing the skin, clay masks are more focused on removing oils and impurities.

Treatment duration

Most mud masks require at least 10 minutes to work their magic, but some can take 30 minutes or longer. It’s imperative that you wait the length of time instructed or you won’t get the full benefits of the mask, which is just wasteful. You also shouldn’t go too far over the treatment duration or you could feel grimy afterward, although a few minutes won’t hurt.

Removal methods

Once a treatment is complete, mud masks typically need to be removed in one of two ways.

• Wash-off masks are more common, and gentler on the skin when it’s time to come off. However, removing them can be messy. There’s also the risk you miss a spot and go about your day with an embarrassing bit of mud still on your face.
• Peel-off masks are easier to remove, but pulling off the mask also pulls at your skin, possibly leading to irritation, inflammation, dryness and redness. It’s worse for those with sensitive skin; avoid these removal types entirely if that’s you.

Container types

Most mud masks come in either a jar or a squeeze tube.

• Jars are the most common; they’re the easiest to get the mask from. Don't use your fingers, though, because you can contaminate the jar. Instead, use a brush or spatula.
• Squeeze tubes don’t have the same contamination worries as jars since you just, well, squeeze out what you need. However, mud masks can be exceptionally thick, which can make it a struggle to actually get the mask to come out.

Cost

Most mud masks cost $10-$20. Some can cost less, but these are usually only worth it if they’re a travel-size version of a good mask. Others can cost more, though these usually cost more because of branding rather than ingredient quality.

Best mud masks

Freeman Detoxifying Mud Mask

This mask uses activated charcoal and black sugar to exfoliate the skin and clear your pores. The black sugar also helps your skin retain moisture, smoothing out roughness and lines.

Sold by Amazon and Ulta Beauty

Glamglow Hollywood, California Youthmud Mud Mask

This mask is packed with green tea leaf and volcanic pumice rock to boost your skin's brightness after using it. It’s gluten-free and takes just 10 minutes.

Sold by Amazon and Ulta Beauty

Glamglow Supermud Mud Mask

This mask uses activated-X charcoal to target toxins and dirt deep into your pores. It also helps remove leftover dead skin cells, while eucalyptus leaf adds antioxidants.

Sold by Amazon 

Majestic Pure Dead Sea Mud Mask

This mask uses mud from the Dead Sea, loaded with some of the highest-quality salts and minerals you can buy. The tub is large, making it easier to scoop out the dregs when it’s almost empty.

Sold by Amazon

New York Biology The Ultimate Cosmeceuticals Dead Sea Mud Mask

This is another Dead Sea mud mask, but this one can be left plain or infused with an extra ingredient. The extra ingredient options are turmeric, tea tree oil, lavender oil, manuka honey, eucalyptus oil, or stem cell and collagen.

Sold by Amazon

Peter Thomas Roth Irish Moor Mud Mask

The mud in this mask comes from Irish moors and also contains hijiki seaweed, volcanic ash  and activated charcoal to cover as many skin health bases as possible.

Sold by Amazon and Sephora

Shea Moisture African Black Soap Clarifying Mud Mask

This mud mask is cruelty-free and contains ingredients such as cocoa pod ash and tea tree leaf oil. Six ounces are included and you can buy one or two jars at a time.

Sold by Amazon, iHerb and Ulta Beauty

Best clay masks

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask

This mask comes in a powdered form that requires you to mix it with water or apple cider vinegar, meaning there’s no risk of it drying out in the jar. It comes in either a 1- or 2-pound jar. 

Sold by Amazon

The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Clay Mask

This mask comes from a brand committed to using ethically sourced products and engaging in fair trade practices. It doesn’t hurt that it’s effective, and vegan to boot.

Sold by Amazon

Cetaphil DermaControl Purifying Clay Mask

This mask, and most other Cetaphil products for that matter, is designed for those with sensitive skin. It’s also hypoallergenic and fragrance-free; it's noncomedogenic, too, so it won't block pores. The jar is under the 3.4-fluid-ounce threshold for flying.

Sold by Amazon

Fresh Umbrian Clay Purifying Mask

This mask uses Italian clay that’s packed with minerals. It can work as a purifying mask, a deep cleanser or a pore-reducing agent, and it smells like lavender.

Sold by Amazon, Sephora and Ulta Beauty

Majestic Pure Moroccan Red Clay Mask

This mask has a high mineral content and plenty of vitamins, making it as nourishing as it is cleansing. It’s also cruelty-free, so you can use it with peace of mind.

Sold by Amazon

Plantifique Superfood Marine Clay Mask

This South Korean-made mask includes a combination of seven superfoods to help it cover more skin health bases: avocado, spinach, blueberry, spirulina, tea tree, aloe vera and calendula. 

Sold by Amazon

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There are plenty of products out there for growing families, and it can be hard to figure out which ones will help the most as you adjust to life with a newborn. FridaBaby makes products that make caring for your infant simpler, resulting in a happier baby and more rested caregivers. The best FridaBaby products are easy to use and practical, two things the company focuses on when designing new items. While cute, these products focus more on usefulness than aesthetics and are best for babies and infants up to age 2.

Best FridaBaby products

FridaBaby Baby Basics Kit

This kit includes FridaBaby's most popular products and everything a new parent needs from day one. The DermaFrida SkinSoother rubs off cradle cap flakes, while the nail clippers are perfectly sized for tiny newborn nails. The NoseFrida SnotSucker and Windi GasPasser keep your baby's nose and rear clear. This kit includes all of FridaBaby's most loved and recommended products, making it a great shower gift for new families.

Sold by Amazon

NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator

Yes, it sounds and looks gross, but the NoseFrida SnotSucker is the product that put FridaBaby on most caregivers' must-have list of baby products. It is the most effective way to clear your baby's stuffy nose. The filters keep the snot from getting into your own mouth, and the straw is perfectly sized for your infant's tiny nose.

Sold by Amazon

FridaBaby 3-in-1 Nose, Nail and Ear Picker

Think of this as a multitool for your baby. You can do everything from wipe away boogers and ear wax to clean under delicate nails and belly buttons. There are four tips designed for specific purposes. It comes with a storage case to keep it clean between uses and can be sanitized in the dishwasher. 

Sold by Amazon

MediFrida Accu-Dose Paci

This helpful medicine dispenser mimics a pacifier to soothe your sick baby, ensure the proper dosage and keep the medicine from spilling. All you have to do is put a finger over the paci plug to let your baby suck down their medicine. You can use the included syringe or any other standard infant medical syringe that comes with your medication.

Sold by Amazon

DermaFrida Cradle Cap System

To tackle cradle cap, it helps to use gentle tools that won't irritate your baby's skin. These are gentle enough for newborns' delicate scalps while effectively removing cradle cap flakes. The sponge lathers baby-safe shampoo on your baby's head gently. The soft bristle brush loosens even stubborn cradle cap bits. Finally, the angled comb removes flakes.

Sold by Amazon

Windi Gas and Colic Reliever

If you've cared for a gassy or colicky baby, you know how desperate for relief they can be. The Windi is the top recommendation by doctors and caregivers because it works. You will need to insert it at the source of the gas, which may be daunting for some, but it works in a matter of minutes to get the toots out. Each Windi is single-use, so you may want to stock up if you have a particularly gassy infant.

Sold by Amazon

FridaBaby 3-in-1 Sound Machine, Air Purifier and Night Light

This product fits on a dresser or changing table while providing the top three nighttime functions that help baby sleep. It provides soothing white noise, has four nightlight options and purifies the air using a HEPA filter. You can set the timer for two, four or eight hours, depending on your baby's sleep routine. Replacement filters are sold separately. 

Sold by Amazon

FridaBaby 3-in-1 Humidifier, Diffuser and Nightlight

When your baby is sick and stuffy, a humidifier can be the best answer. This unit delivers 360 degrees of cool mist for up to 12 hours. It can also diffuse calming essential oils or provide a color-changing night light. When the tank is empty, it turns off, so you never need to worry about burning out the motor. 

Sold by Amazon

FridaBaby Paci Weaning System

This system helps break your baby of the pacifier habit in just five steps. Start with a standard pacifier and progress to shorter and shorter pacifiers, switching every one to two days. At step five, your baby will not need the pacifier anymore after being gradually weaned off. It works best for babies who are used to orthodontic pacifiers, which are angled to fit the roof of their mouth. 

Sold by Amazon

SmileFrida Finger Toothbrush

This first toothbrush is excellent for building dental hygiene habits and relieving teething gums. It has three angles that clean all sides of tiny teeth. The food-grade silicone is safe for your baby and protects your own fingers from extra powerful bites. It also comes with a storage case to keep the brush clean and make it portable. The finger toothbrush is a good precursor to the FridaBaby training and toddler toothbrushes. 

Sold by Amazon

FridaBaby Sick Day Prep Kit

The last thing you want to do when comforting a sick baby is dig around in your cabinet for the right medicine or ointment. The sick day prep kit includes vapor wipes, vapor rub, the popular snot sucker and a medication dispenser. It makes a great baby gift for new caregivers who may not have these essentials on hand the first time their newborn gets the sniffles.

Sold by Amazon

FridaBaby 4-in-1 Bathtub

This baby bathtub works as well for a newborn’s first bath as it does for 2-year-olds who can sit and splash on their own. It comes with a hammock sling that cradles newborns and can be adjusted to a reclining seat when the baby is around 3 months to 6 months old. It is one of the only baby baths with a supported seat that can be added around six months and taken out when your baby is sitting on their own.

Sold by Amazon

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The amount of training you’ve put into your furry friend doesn’t always matter. Accidents happen for a variety of reasons. Some incidents are benign, while others can be signs of something more serious. It can be difficult to find these accidents if you aren’t there to witness them. That’s where a pet urine detector comes in handy.

The best is the Simple Solution Spot Spotter HD UV LED Urine Detector. It’s bright, with a wide enough beam to make scanning your floors take less time.

What to know before you buy a pet urine detector

Ultraviolet black light wavelength

Ultraviolet black light gives a pet urine detector the ability to highlight stains. It is measured in nanometers and needs to have a wavelength of 365 to 400 nm to detect urine. The shorter the wavelength, the better. Cat urine may not be detectable by detectors with longer wavelengths, though dog urine should show up just fine.

You don’t need to buy a black light marketed as a pet urine detector, either — you just need one within this wavelength range. Keep this in mind while shopping, and you may be able to find a better light for the same or lower cost.

LED count

The number of LEDs determines how bright the pet urine detector can get. The brighter the detector, the easier it is to see stains and the more effective it is in sunnier rooms. Keep in mind that a brighter detector isn’t as good as one with a shorter wavelength. If you have to choose between them, prioritize wavelength.

• Low-end detectors typically have 10 LEDs, give or take a few. You need to be in a pitch-dark room and get close to the stains for these to work.
• Midrange detectors typically have 30 to 50 LEDs. These should be able to spot most stains in a reasonably dark room.
• High-end detectors can have 100 or more LEDs. You won’t struggle to see anything with these, even in a dimly lit room.

Quantity

Some pet urine detectors are sold in packages of two but occasionally in packs offering more. These tend to be low-end or midrange detectors rather than anything powerful. These packages are good for keeping backups around or getting multiple people in on the search.

What to look for in a quality pet urine detector

Casing

The best pet urine detectors have strong casings that can withstand being dropped from an average height. Better casings may also be waterproof and dustproof.

Battery

Like most flashlight-like tools, pet urine detectors usually run on replaceable batteries. AAA batteries are the most commonly used, and better lights will include enough to get you started.

Other detectors run on rechargeable batteries, though they typically cost more. Make sure these include the necessary charging equipment so you don’t need to buy anything else.

How much you can expect to spend on a pet urine detector

They can cost as little as $10 with some costing even less, though these may not be able to detect everything. Bulk packages and higher-end detectors can cost up to $30. The best can cost $60 or more.

Pet urine detector FAQ

Can a pet urine detector detect anything else?

A. Yes. Many things show up under the black lights used in pet urine detectors. This can include other fluids, bodily or not, some insects and flowers, and security strips on credit cards and driver's licenses.

Many of these glow different colors, making it easier to recognize what’s what. For example, pet urine usually glows yellow or green, while the carpet cleaner you used to get rid of the urine usually glows white.

Is using a pet urine detector as simple as ‘pointing and shooting?’

A. Yes and no. The essence of using one is as simple as “pointing and shooting,” but many simple things can interfere with its effectiveness. For example, using even the brightest detector in a lit room makes it all but impossible to see any stains. Additionally, stains that glow a certain color can be difficult to detect if it’s on an object of the same color.

What’s the best pet urine detector to buy?

Top pet urine detector

Simple Solution Spot Spotter HD UV LED Urine Detector

What you need to know: This is an excellent detector for any pet owner.

What you’ll love: With 21 LEDs and a wavelength of 380 to 385 nm, this unit can detect urine and most other stains. It takes three AAA batteries, and a set is included. It’s small and lightweight, making it comfortable to use.

What you should consider: The room needs to be as dark as possible, and if it's not, you can miss otherwise easily seen stains. Some consumers found the included batteries too weak.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top pet urine detector for the money

Lighting Ever Blacklight Flashlight

What you need to know: This is a great budget detector if you only need one once in a blue moon.

What you’ll love: It has 21 LEDs and a wavelength of 395 nm, making it able to detect most stains. The aluminum body is strong enough to withstand drops from average heights. It takes three AAA batteries, which are included in the package.

What you should consider: Some customers had more success detecting urine than others. Others had issues with it failing after a few months.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Alonefire H42UV 36-Watt 365nm UV Flashlight

What you need to know: If you need a high-powered detector, make it this one.

What you’ll love: The power and wavelength of this detector are strong enough to pick up even the faintest traces of urine and other substances. It uses a rechargeable battery and includes a USB-C to USB cable for charging. A filter helps block ambient light for better results.

What you should consider: A few purchasers reported it got hot if used too long. Others received detectors that wouldn’t turn on.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Heating food in the microwave is convenient, but microwaved food rarely tastes the same. Even if you don’t have time to heat your food on the stove, a heated lunch box can keep your homecooked meals warm and delicious. And the Hot Logic Personal Oven is excellent because of its compact design, 12-hour warming capability and ability to heat food without burning or drying it out.

What to know before you buy a heated lunch box

Size and capacity

You don’t want to be lugging around a bulky lunch box, but it should be ample enough to hold an average meal, including small portions of sides such as vegetables, salad or rice. However, if you prefer having large meals on the go, consider getting a large lunch box.

Materials

Heated lunch boxes are built similarly to lunch coolers, as they have a hard plastic exterior, although some have an insulated fabric exterior. The inside often has a stainless-steel tray or aluminum lining, used to keep food warm. All materials used in a heated lunch box must be heat resistant and rustproof, and plastic containers must be food-grade.

Cleaning

Heated lunch boxes have electric components that make them unsafe for dishwashers, but they’re relatively easy to clean. Some lunch boxes come with dishwasher-friendly plastic containers, but if the compartments aren't removable, you’ll have to use a damp or dry cloth to remove food residue and stains.

What to look for in a quality heated lunch box

Leakproof

The last thing anybody wants is hot soup or pasta sauce leaking out their lunch box and onto their clothes or workspace. A leakproof lid is crucial for safety reasons and prevents messy spills. Some lunch boxes are advertised as fully leakproof but still let some liquids seep through. In that case, it’s best to kep your lunch box upright at all times.

Warming period

A high-quality heated lunch box can reheat food and keep it warm for at least 10 to 12 hours. A lunch box that keeps food warm for less than that isn’t ideal because by the time you get to your meal, it might be cold or lukewarm.

Also, some premium heated lunch boxes can cook raw foods and keep them warm for several hours, making them an excellent option when you’re too busy to cook or prepare your meal at home.

Power source 

All heated lunch boxes come with a cord to connect them directly to a power outlet, but some don’t require much power to work, meaning you can hook one up to your car using an adapter to get it going. It’ll probably take longer to heat your food using your car’s battery, but it’s excellent for long-haul truck drivers or long-distance road trips.

How much you can expect to spend on a heated lunch box

You can find a quality heated lunch box for $20-$30. However, if you want something bigger or more powerful with accessories or multiple containers, expect to spend up to $60.

Heated lunch box FAQ

Are heated lunch boxes safe?

A. As with all electric appliances, there is always a risk of an electric shock or burning out a fuse, but they’re relatively safe. However, they’re unsuitable for children and aren’t permitted in most schools.

How long does it take to warm up food in a heated lunch box?

A. Depending on the food's original state and the lunch box, it takes approximately 15 to 35 minutes to warm up food.

What’s the best heated lunch box to buy?

Top heated lunch box

Hot Logic Personal Oven

What you need to know: This portable oven and food warmer reheats fresh or frozen food without burning or drying it out.

What you’ll love: It works well with frozen foods, prepared meals and leftovers, and holds the temperature for up to 12 hours. You don’t need to monitor it, as it doesn’t overcook food, and it only requires low-power wattage, making it suitable for use with a car adapter.

What you should consider: It’s only big enough for one average-sized food container, and some customers reported that pasta becomes too mushy if left heating for too long.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top heated lunch box for the money

DaCool Insulated Lunch Container Hot Food Jar 

What you need to know: This food jar is great for keeping your lunches warm and has a compact, sleek design.

What you’ll love: It has a double-walled stainless steel interior and uses water to preheat and pre-cool food before it’s placed into the container. It comes with a folding spoon, vacuum insulation technology and seamless welding technology to keep liquids warm or cool for up to 12 hours.

What you should consider: Although easy to clean, it’s not dishwasher-safe. Also, some users found it difficult to open using the pressure-release valve.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Cortoc Electric Lunch Box

What you need to know: This versatile lunch box keeps food warm for several hours and works whether you’re at work or on the road.

What you’ll love: This portable self-heating lunch box is made with high-grade stainless steel and has strong heating resistance. It features three-dimensional fast heating and has a comfortable plastic handle for easy carrying. Also, it has a compact design, but the tray is spacious enough to fit an average-sized meal.

What you should consider: Some reviewers found it harder to close than other lunch boxes, and the plastic outer shell is flimsy.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Bosch and Whirlpool are two high-end brands that offer high-quality dishwashers with state-of-the-art technology. These modern appliances come loaded with features, many of which streamline the dishwashing process. There are a lot of similarities between these brands, but they differ when it comes to the build quality, size, cleaning power and design.

Bosch dishwasher

Bosch was founded by Robert Bosch in 1886. The company first started creating tools, such as Bosch impact drivers and vehicular parts. Eventually, it switched gears and began producing appliances and other technologically-advanced gadgets for people. Today, Bosch offers everything from refrigerators to washing machines.

The company’s dishwashers are high-quality, quiet and energy-efficient. Many of the newer models are also considered smart appliances and can pair with other smart devices through Home Connect. With stainless steel in many of the designs, these machines give off a feeling of luxury and durability.

Most Bosch dishwashers are full-sizes and come with such features as third racks, adjustable organizational systems and advanced cycles. This makes them perfect for both busy and large households where efficiency is key.

Higher-tiered dishwashers usually cost $1,500-$2,000. Less expensive models range from $500-$1,000.

Bosch dishwasher pros

• Most models come with a large stainless steel tub that is durable and can last for many years.
• Some come with smart technology, Home Connect, which can be connected to other smart devices for a streamlined, uninterrupted home system.
• They’re full-sized, which is great for larger households or those who prefer to run the dishwasher infrequently.
• Many have basic and specialty settings, including fragile glassware, eco-friendly and SpeedPerfect cycle.
• They are sleek and fit in well with minimalistic and modern homes.
• Many have an adjustable organizational system, including a third rack that’s movable.
• The dishwashers have some of the quietest cycles.
• Newer models are energy efficient.
• There are different handle designs to choose from.
• Most come with modern technology, such as 24/7 Aquastop (prevent leaks) and CrystalDry (fast-drying after the cycle).

Bosch dishwasher cons

• Some are expensive, though they come with many advanced features.
• If overfilled, food particles could transfer or the dishes might not fully dry.
• There are a lot of controls and cycles for those who want something simpler.
• Not all dishwashers use a heating system to dry dishes.

Best Bosch dishwashers

Bosch 500 Series 24-Inch Stainless Steel Top Control Tall Tub Pocket Handle Dishwasher

This top control dishwasher comes with PrecisionWash that thoroughly cleans grime and dried food from dishes. It features AutoAir, which lets the appliance open the door to more efficiently dry dishes once the cycle is done. It’s available in white or stainless steel.

Sold by Home Depot

Bosch 800 Series 24-Inch Stainless Steel Top Control Tall Tub Dishwasher

Energy Star-certified, this powerful energy-efficient appliance has smart sensors that automatically track how clean the dishes are throughout the cycle. It comes with advanced features to dry and sanitize all types of dishes. Plus, it has an adjustable rack that makes it easier to fit the most amount of cups, plates, glasses, silverware and more.

Sold by Home Depot

Bosch 300 Series 24-Inch Stainless Steel Front Control Tall Tub Dishwasher

With five dishwashing cycles and four settings, such as sanitize and delay start, this appliance is perfect for busy households. It’s sleek and available with different handle designs. The middle rack is adjustable so you can organize your dishes effectively.

Sold by Home Depot

Whirlpool dishwasher

Whirlpool’s contemporary dishwashers come with modern features and cycles to meet your dishwashing needs. Founded in 1911 in Benton Harbor, Michigan, during wartime, the company started with the goal of improving people’s home life by offering modern appliances. By 1970, it had many appliances, including refrigerators, washers, dryers and dishwashers.

Today, Whirlpool also manufactures and designs microwaves, wall ovens, ranges and more. The company’s newer dishwashers come with a stainless steel tub and advanced hidden controls. The largest one even comes with an additional third rack that allows for extra space and organization.

Most Whirlpool dishwashers cost under $1,000.

Whirlpool dishwasher pros

• They come with many modern features and cycles, including normal, Sani-Rinse, High-Temperature Wash and 1-Hour Wash.
• Most models are budget-friendly.
• They use sensors to automatically determine the best cleaning cycle for the load.
• Some models have an adjustable second or third rack.
• The designs are stylish, modern and have a smudge- and fingerprint-resistant finish.
• Many are Energy Star certified to save power.
• Some are quiet enough to be run at night.
• The spray arm ensures that every dish is rinsed evenly for a thorough cleaning.
• Some dishwashers have an exposed heating element at the base of the tub to help dry the dishes.

Whirlpool dishwasher cons

• The traditional heating element could melt plastic dishes on the bottom rack.
• Some models are constructed from plastic, resulting in lower build quality.
• The third rack only fits flat or small items.
• Some dishwashers are loud.
• Dishes are often still wet after the cycle ends.

Best Whirlpool dishwashers

Whirlpool 24-Inch Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Dishwasher

Sleek and modern, this dishwasher has a third rack and a tall stainless steel tub that can fit up to 37% more dishes than standard models. It is relatively quiet and can be run at night with minimal disruption. It has a powerful spray arm that comes with twice the number of jets for more even and complete coverage. It also comes with a cycle status indicator that displays where it’s at in the cycle and how much time remains.

Sold by Home Depot

Whirlpool 24-Inch Monochromatic Stainless Steel Front Control Built-In Tall Tub Dishwasher with 1-Hour Wash Cycle

With three colors to choose from, this Energy Star-certified dishwasher is large enough to accommodate dishes of all sizes with ease. Although plastic, the tub is durable and easy to clean. The front controls are convenient to use and include settings such as Sani Rinse, which can eliminate bacteria.

Sold by Home Depot

Whirlpool 24-Inch Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Tall Tub Dishwasher with Fan Dry

This dishwasher comes in black or stainless steel, both of which are resistant to fingerprints and smudges. It’s Energy Star-certified to cut down on power use. It has a light-up display, so you can see the current cycle and how much time remains without needing a separate light. This model also features Cycle Memory, which remembers and automatically sets the next cycle based on the previous one. It also has a Soil Sensor, which can adjust the current cycle to remove any remaining food particles.

Sold by Home Depot

Should you get a Bosch dishwasher or a Whirlpool dishwasher?

Both Bosch and Whirlpool have high-performance dishwashers that can hold a lot of dishes and clean and sanitize them. These appliances have a sleek aesthetic that fits into any modern or smart home. They also have different cycles and settings for specific types of loads.

If you want a heavy-duty, long-lasting dishwasher that’s designed with innovative features and quiet enough to be run at night, consider Bosch. However, if you’re looking for a dishwasher at a lower price point that still offers the essentials, Whirlpool is a good choice.

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Sorting coins manually is tedious and time consuming. From the cashier’s drawer to anyone who has a pile of pocket change accumulating, separating and counting coins is a task best left to a machine.

Coin sorters sort large amounts of coins and quickly separate them by size. Some calculate how much money has been sorted. They serve both businesses and individuals and come in assorted sizes designed for commercial and personal use. For its all-purpose features, the best coin sorter is the Cassida C200 Coin Counter, Sorter and Wrapper. 

What to know before you buy a coin sorter

Do you want to sort by hand?

Coin sorters are fed manually or electronically.

• Manual sorters require more time, since you have to input the coins into plastic funnels or trays designed to filter the coins by size. Some manual sorters have a hand crank that agitates a pile of coins into the right-sized channel, but they still take longer than electronic sorters. Manual sorters also work with small amounts of change. They are considerably less expensive than electronic sorters.
• Electronic sorters are ideal for anyone who has a large volume of coins and needs fast sorting. They are made of metal and can hold thousands of coins in the hopper. The coins are forced into the channel corresponding to coin size. Most electronic sorters have digital displays that provide the total held inside. They are more expensive than manual sorters.

How many coins are you sorting?

The sorter capacity is an important consideration. If you are counting thousands of coins on a daily basis, you want a large capacity sorter. Some hoppers can hold up to 5,000 coins. Others may limit the amount to 500 or 1,000. Knowing your quantity and frequency will lead you to the sorter best suited for your situation, which can save you money and time.

Do you need to wrap the coins?

If you need to place coins in wrappers, there are electronic sorters with plastic tubes that have a wrapper attached to catch the incoming coins. The wrappers are often sold separately. Inverted plastic tubes are an inexpensive way to manually fill wrappers, but they require you to count out the correct number for each wrapper.

What to look for in a coin sorter

Display

Most electronic sorters have a digital display that keeps a running total of the sorted coins. Some sorters have reporting features that show how many of each denomination has been collected. Others let you add dollar bills and manually adjust the total or remove coins for personal use.

Speed

Basic electronic sorters will separate 50 to 100 coins per minute. Premium electronic sorters can sort 300 to 500 coins per minute.

Anti-jamming

Jams happen even to the best-designed machines. Anti-jamming features automatically loosen stuck coins. Without this feature, you will have to manually unjam the machine, similar to when paper becomes stuck in a printer.

Size

Most electronic coin sorters are 8 to 11 inches tall and can weigh 10 pounds or more when empty. They are much heavier with coins inside. Find a location where the machine doesn’t have to be moved and has plenty of space for coins to be added from above.

How much you can expect to spend on a coin sorter

• Inexpensive coin sorters cost $5-$15. They require manual separation and use plastic trays or funnels.
• Medium-priced sorters run $15-$50. They're also manually operated and have a series of plastic tubes or trays based on the coin size.
• Expensive sorters start at $50 and can reach $1,000. These are electric machines that sort hundreds of coins per minute with digital displays. High-volume commercial machines start at $250.

Coin sorter FAQ

Which coins can be sorted?

A. Pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters are the standard for most coin sorters. A few accept dollar coins. Some machines count foreign coins, and there are even models designed for Canadian coinage.

What causes coin sorters to jam?

A. Dirty coins do not move through them as easily as clean ones. Bent coins may cause a jam if the angle is pronounced. And a foreign coin may not fit correctly, causing the machine to stop.

What is the best coin sorter to buy?

Top coin sorter

Cassida C200 Coin Counter, Sorter and Wrapper

What you need to know: This all-in-one machine counts, sorts and wraps coins and is made in the United States.

What you’ll love: The hopper holds 2,000 coins and processes 300 coins per minute. An electric display provides the total amount and has a report function by denomination. Coin tube attachments simplify wrapping coins. It has a retractable carrying handle.

What you should consider: The machine is bulky and heavy, weighing 12 pounds.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top coin sorter for the money

PM Company Color-Coded Coin Counting Tubes

What you need to know: For those willing to separate coins manually, these tubes provide an easy wrapping method at a fraction of the cost of automated machines.

What you’ll love: Using the four colors the Federal Reserve assigns to coin wrappers, each tube is inverted with a wrapper attached. The coins are dropped in until the exact number for the roll is reached.

What you should consider: Coin wrappers are not included with the tubes.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Jumbo Digital Coin Bank

What you need to know: Doubling as a coin counter and bank, this container is a convenient way to deposit loose change and keep tabs on how much has accumulated.

What you’ll love: The bank holds up to 5,000 coins. It is made from sturdy acrylonitrile butadiene styrene plastic. A digital display totals the contents. A convenient plus-minus feature lets you add dollar bills or remove coins while keeping an accurate total.

What you should consider: The bank requires two AAA batteries.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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If you are planning a short adventure and need a new bag, consider adding a Vera Bradley weekender bag to your collection. They're lightweight, easy to clean and durable. They also have well-placed pockets to help you stay organized, handles and a cross-body strap for hands-free traveling. The Vera Bradley Performance Twill Weekender Bag is a top pick because it has all that, plus it comes in several colors and patterns to help you stand out.

What to know before you buy a Vera Bradley weekender bag

The Vera Bradley brand

Vera Bradley was launched in 1982 after friends Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia Miller went luggage shopping together. The women hoped to find cases that featured colorful patterns but couldn't find them. 

Soon after, the women draped a basement ping-pong table with bright, patterned swatches that would eventually cover their new company's first luggage line. Their mission then and now remains the same: to make the world a brighter place with every person who carries a Vera Bradley bag. 

What is a weekender bag?

Small bags, such as duffel bags, backpacks and rolling cases, can usually carry enough items for your weekend adventures. However, weekender bags are typically the ideal choice for travel because they are built to keep your essentials organized and secure. They do this with well-placed pockets and zippered closures. They are also typically soft and lightweight with handles and a strap for added support.

Purpose of a weekender bag

A Vera Bradley weekender bag is an essential piece of luggage because it typically meets airlines' standard carry-on bag limits and should easily fit inside an airplane's overhead luggage bin. 

Weekender bags are ideal for short trips because they are lightweight and have just enough room for your clothes, toiletries and other essentials. They should also have a zipper closure to keep your essential documents and items from slipping out. 

What to look for in a quality Vera Bradley weekender bag

Lightweight

Since many people carry their Vera Bradley weekender bags through airports and hotels, getting one under 3 pounds would be wise.

While added features like wheels and a trolley handle can be beneficial, they might dampen your plans by adding unnecessary size issues that could conflict with its carry-on status. 

Easy to carry

The best Vera Bradley weekender bag comes with two attached handles at the top, making it easy to pick up and go. It should also have a removable cross-body strap for hands-free carrying and a back sleeve that attaches to your luggage handle for added security.

Pockets

Interior and exterior pockets can be a game-changer when it comes to traveling. Zippered outer pockets give you quick access to essentials, such as your passport and boarding pass, while interior mesh pockets ensure that your stuff stays organized. The more pockets your Vera Bradley weekender bag has, the easier it will be for you to stay organized throughout your travels. 

How much you can expect to spend on a Vera Bradley weekender bag

Since most Vera Bradley weekender bags are made from similar fabrics, prices typically vary by size and range from $50-$200. 

Vera Bradley weekender bag FAQ

What color is best for your Vera Bradley weekender bag?

A. For many, the whole point of getting a Vera Bradley bag is for its brightly colored patterns. However, consider going for your favorite bright pattern with a dark background if you want to hide the dust and dirt that bags typically collect while traveling.

What is the best way to keep your bag organized?

A. Consider going with packing cubes that let you organize your clothes, toiletries, shoes and electronics with ease. They also help contain spills, leaks and soiled shoes, so one small mistake does not destroy everything in your bag. 

What’s the best Vera Bradley weekender bag to buy?

Top Vera Bradley weekender bag

Vera Bradley Performance Twill Weekender Bag

What you need to know: It protects your valuables with its water-resistant and lightweight yet durable material. 

What you’ll love: This bag is carry-on compliant for most airlines. It is easy to manage with its 6-inch handles, 53-inch removable strap and back sleeve that lets you secure it to the handle of your rolling luggage. It also has five interior mesh pockets and two outer pockets that close with a zipper.

What you should consider: Since it is so soft, consider investing in a sturdy laptop sleeve before packing yours inside this bag. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top Vera Bradley weekender bag for the money

Vera Bradley Cotton Weekender Bag

What you need to know: This small bag is lightweight, is easy to carry and gives you just enough room for your weekend essentials. 

What you’ll love: This cotton bag comes in an abundance of cute patterns, has 6-inch handles and has an adjustable 53-inch strap that is removable for easy carrying. It also has five interior mesh pockets to keep your stuff organized and two outer pockets for easy access to your travel documents. 

What you should consider: Prints and patterns are not for everyone, so keep in mind that this bag also comes in several solid colors.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Vera Bradley Microfiber Grand Weekender Bag

What you need to know: It is ideal for heavy packers because it is slightly larger than standard weekender bags.

What you’ll love: This classic bag comes in black and navy, which goes with nearly anything. The attached handles have a 7-inch drop, and it comes with a 53-inch-long removable shoulder strap. It also has a back sleeve that attaches to your luggage for easy handling.

What you should consider: This bag might not meet some airlines' carry-on size restrictions, so ensure that you check with your airliner before taking it on your next trip. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon 

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Thanks to their versatility, watercolor pencils are great for painters and drawers alike. They give you the precise control of drawing paired with the dreamy translucent hues of watercolor paints. 

You can buy student and artist-grade versions, so there are options for advanced and inexperienced users. If you want high-quality pencils with rich pigments, Faber-Castell Albrecht Durer Watercolor Pencils are great. 

What to know before you buy watercolor pencils

Grade

Watercolor pencils come in student grade and artist grade. The main differences between the two varieties are the pigment quality and price. 

• Student-grade: Student-grade pencils are affordable, but they only have a modest pigment-to-binder ratio, so they aren't exceptionally vibrant. This can become more apparent when you add water into the mix, leaving you with wishy-washy results. Plus, the pigment fades more quickly compared to artist-grade offerings. 
• Artist-grade: Artist-grade pencils are designed for professionals and people who are serious about art as a hobby. They cost significantly more than student-grade pencils, but they contain a greater pigment-to-binder ratio, so their colors are more vibrant, even when diluted. They're more lightfast than student-grade colored pencils, so your artwork lasts longer. 

Lightfastness

Just like standard colored pencils and watercolor paints, watercolor pencils fade when exposed to light. The lightfastness of a pencil refers to how long the pigment lasts on the page when exposed to light. 

There are many lightfastness rating scales, but the Blue Wool scale is one of the most commonly used. It ranges from one to eight, with one being the lowest degree of lightfastness and eight being the highest. A one on the scale will fade after less than two years of normal display conditions, while an eight on the scale can last more than 100 years of normal display conditions. 

What to look for in quality watercolor pencils

Color range

Check how many pencils come in a set and whether these are all unique shades or if some are doubled up. Small sets can contain less than 10 colors, while large sets can contain more than 100. 

Pencil shape

Some users prefer triangular pencils to a standard round or hexagonal shape, finding them more comfortable to hold for long periods. 

Break-resistant leads

You can find pencils with leads designed to be resistant to breakage. 

Dry application

You can use all watercolor pencils dry, just like you'd use a standard colored pencil. However, some have more vibrant or lightfast pigments better suited to dry use than others. 

Storage tin

Some pencils come in a metal tin. This gives you a durable spot to keep your pencils and helps you stay organized. 

How much you can expect to spend on watercolor pencils

Expect to pay anywhere from $5-$100, depending on the size of the pack and the overall quality. 

Watercolor pencils FAQ

How do you use watercolor pencils? 

A. You can use watercolor pencils in a range of ways. The most common method is to draw with a dry pencil on dry watercolor paper and then "activate" the pigment by applying water with a paintbrush. Adding water dilutes the pigment, so it spreads and acts in much the same way as watercolor paints. You can mix colors by layering them over top of one another. Once you get them wet, they'll mix together. 

However, some people like the effect they get from wetting the page before they start drawing. Plus, you can use them dry just like regular colored pencils, too. If you're new to this medium, experimenting is the best way to find out what you like. 

Can you use watercolor pencils on regular paper? 

A. You should use watercolor paper rather than regular paper. Watercolor paper is significantly thicker and won't tear or buckle when wet. 

But, not all watercolor paper is of the same quality or has the same properties. Thicker paper is less likely to buckle than thinner paper, even if you overdo it on the water, but it costs more. 

You'll also need to choose between cold pressed and hot pressed watercolor paper. Cold pressed paper has a lightly textured surface that adds to the appeal of the finished piece. It absorbs quickly and dries quickly, but the resulting colors are less rich. Hot-pressed paper has a smooth surface that's great for precise work as it's easier to create fine detail while using. However, some people find it more challenging to work on as it's harder to get the paint to stay in place.

What are the best watercolor pencils to buy?

Top watercolor pencils

Faber-Castell Albrecht Durer Watercolor Pencils

What you need to know: These artist-grade pencils provide vivid results with a good degree of lightfastness. 

What you'll love: You get 60 pencils in a pack, each of a different hue. The included tin is great for storage. The high-quality pigments blend easily and become permanent when dry. 

What you should consider: They're on the pricey side, so they are not the best choice for beginners. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top watercolor pencils for the money

Arteza Watercolor Pencils

What you need to know: Containing 72 pencils, this set offers exceptional value. 

What you'll love: The triangular shape of each pencil is ergonomic, so drawing is more comfortable and your hands are less likely to cramp, even during long sessions. The pigments are relatively bold and blend easily. 

What you should consider: They're great for beginners or for occasional use, but serious artists may want higher-quality pencils. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Prismacolor Premier Watercolor Pencils

What you need to know: With 36 colors in a set, it's a great choice for someone who doesn't need a huge array of shades. 

What you'll love: The pigments are easy to lay down smoothly and very soluble for a reliable watercolor effect. Moreover, the pigment is of an artist-grade quality, so it's vivid and won't leave you underwhelmed.  

What you should consider: Since the body of the pencils is natural wood colored, it's tricky to tell you easily which hue you're picking up. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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