Professional teeth-whitening treatments can be expensive, so many people opt for whitening teeth at home to save money. With nearly hundreds of products on the market — from whitening strips to whitening mouthwash — there’s no shortage of options.

Finding the best at-home teeth-whitening products involves a little trial and error. Some people prefer options that deliver rapid results, while others seek gentler treatments that are less likely to trigger tooth sensitivity. Price remains a top concern, and fortunately, there are do-it-yourself teeth-whitening products for every budget. We rounded up the best teeth whitener options on the market, including whitening toothpaste, gel, strips, mouthwash, pens and kits.

Shop this article: Tom’s of Maine Antiplaque & Whitening Toothpaste,  Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100 and Zimba Teeth-Whitening Strips

How does teeth whitening work?

Teeth whitening is a topical treatment that makes teeth appear brighter and whiter by removing stains or discoloration.

Most teeth whiteners such as Crest Whitestrips, contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as active ingredients. These ingredients may remove surface and deep-set stains on teeth. Some newer products for whitening teeth use activated charcoal, which is mildly abrasive and may absorb some types of stains.

Teeth-whitening results

Shade improvement

Results in teeth whitening are often discussed in terms of shade improvement or how many shades whiter teeth appear. On average, teeth may end up a couple or a few shades brighter once treatment is complete.

How long it takes to see results

Depending on how strong the formula is, teeth-whitening products may take anywhere from 24 hours to one month to see dramatic results.

Some manufacturers are clearer than others in terms of disclosing how long it takes to see results. Crest 3D White Whitestrips Vivid Plus, for example, claim they deliver full results within 10 days with noticeable shade improvements. Other products, like some whitening pens, may indicate they offer overnight brightening.

What impacts results of teeth whitening?

A number of variables impact how dramatic teeth-whitening results may be. For that reason, it’s common to read mixed reviews regarding most of these products.

Deep-set stains or long-term tooth discoloration, for example, may be harder to whiten and brighten. Those who experience light staining from coffee or wine drinking, on the other hand, may notice more dramatic results. Individuals with naturally brighter teeth shades may see significant improvements in tooth brightness.

How long results last with teeth whitening

Teeth-whitening results last anywhere from three months to a couple of years. Many people seek to prolong results by using whitening oral care products, too. Tom’s of Maine Antiplaque & Whitening Toothpaste, for example, helps to remove surface stains.

With that said, the American Dental Association advises individuals to be careful with teeth-whitening products. Unfortunately, overuse of products with a higher concentration of whitening ingredients may contribute to increased tooth sensitivity, gum irritation or enamel damage. As a result, it’s often recommended to take breaks between whitening treatments when possible.

How much does teeth whitening cost?

The most affordable teeth-whitening products are pens, toothpaste and mouthwash, which cost $20 or less. Whitening strips range anywhere from $20 to $65, while LED whitening devices cost between $90 and $300.

Best teeth-whitening products for home use

Establishing a healthy oral-care regimen

Before embarking on a teeth-whitening journey, make sure the rest of your oral care regimen is in check.

Because mild tooth sensitivity is common after teeth whitening, many people switch to toothbrushes for sensitive teeth. This Sensodyne toothbrush, for example, is appreciated for its soft, flexible bristles.

Brushing your teeth with an electric toothbrush, such as this Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 4100, provides a deeper, more comprehensive clean. They also remove plaque better than a manual toothbrush. This model is even suitable for brushing around braces, veneers and crowns.

Traditional flossing may leave behind plaque and food particles. A water flosser, such as this popular Waterpik model, uses streams of water to gently yet effectively blast away buildup.

Best teeth-whitening strips

Whitening strips are considered a user-friendly way to whiten teeth. The strips are worn for five to 25 minutes, depending on the formula. One of the pitfalls, however, is that whitening strips often trigger tooth sensitivity.

Crest 3D White Luxe Glamorous White Whitestrips

A crowd favorite, these Crest teeth-whitening strips are easy to use and require only 30 minutes of wear time daily. The whitening and brightening results may last up to a year.

Zimba Teeth-Whitening Strips

Zimba’s whitening strips are an affordable option and deliver pro-grade results. The enamel-safe formula is gentle on sensitive teeth and gums.

Lumineux Teeth-Whitening Strips

Popular for removing wine, coffee and tea stains, these Lumineux teeth-whitening strips offer noticeable results in less than one week. The enamel-safe formula whitens without making teeth sensitive.

Best teeth-whitening kits

LED teeth-whitening kits typically include a light tray and gel. These trays are worn for 30 to 60 minutes and may offer a more dramatic whitening effect compared to strips. However, LED whitening kits remain one of the more expensive options on the market.

Snow Teeth-Whitening Kit

This premium LED whitening kit is suitable for sensitive teeth as well as dental work. It’s praised for its nine-minute treatment, making it one of the fastest-working options on the market.

Crest 3D Whitestrips with Light

Crest’s new LED whitening kit maximizes whitening and brightening compared to Whitestrips alone. Results are considered dramatic and may last up to three years.

VieBeauti Teeth-Whitening Kit

This affordable whitening system uses a dentist-grade 35% carbamide polymer gel whitener and a powerful LED light.

MySmile Teeth-Whitening Kit

Another popular and budget-friendly option, this whitening kit uses carbamide peroxide and provides results in just 10 minutes. Keep in mind that it's not suitable for sensitive teeth.

Best teeth-whitening toothpastes

Whitening toothpaste is formulated with abrasive ingredients, as well as whitening or bleaching agents. They’re available in a wide variety of formulas and preferences and even come in varieties for sensitive teeth whitening. Unfortunately, they’re more expensive than regular toothpaste.

Crest 3D White Brilliance Toothpaste

A powerful, long-lasting formula, this whitening toothpaste keeps stains at bay for up to 24 hours and contains fluoride to prevent cavities.

Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste

This sensitive teeth-friendly formula also works to strengthen enamel. It’s effective at removing new, superficial stains from coffee and wine.

Arm & Hammer Advanced White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste

This peroxide and baking soda teeth-whitening formula protects teeth from new stains. It neutralizes acids that weaken and erode enamel as well.

Hismile V34 Colour Corrector Purple Teeth-Whitening Toothpaste

This Hismile teeth-whitening gel went viral on social media. It uses an innovative purple formula to cancel out the yellow undertones to give you those pearly whites. The purple teeth whitener contains no peroxide and is safe for daily use.

Best teeth-whitening mouthwash

This mouthwash typically contains a hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening and bleaching formula. Like whitening toothpaste, there are many varieties on the market. According to some users, however, using whitening mouthwash on a daily basis may irritate teeth and gums.

Colgate Optic White Whitening Mouthwash

Because this formula is enamel-safe and alcohol-free, there’s no afterburn when you rinse. It also promises to be gentle on gums.

ACT Whitening + Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash

Considered a gentle formula, this ACT mouthwash whitens without common irritants like alcohol and dyes. It removes surface stains and with prolonged use, it strengthens enamel.

Best teeth-whitening pens

Whitening pens are formulated with many of the same ingredients as whitening strips, including hydrogen peroxide. They’re travel-friendly and easy to use, and they may offer mild yet instantaneous results. However, some of these pens are known for their aftertastes.

Colgate Optic White Overnight Teeth-Whitening Pen

This Colgate whitening pen is filled with a quick-drying serum that doesn’t leave a sticky residue. It’s vegan, gluten-free and sugar-free.

Venus Visage Teeth-Whitening Pen

Thanks to the tapered brush of this whitening pen, it’s easy to apply the whitening serum to all nooks and crannies. The formula offers fast, long-lasting results.

Moon Teeth-Whitening Pen Elixir III by Kendall Jenner

Another social media sensation, the Moon whitening pen designed by Kendall Jenner received the NewBeauty award in 2023. The formula is vegan, safe and effective for sensitive teeth. It tastes great, too, flavored with lavender, strawberry, honeysuckle flower, vanilla and mint.

Worth checking out

Opalescence Go Prefilled Teeth-Whitening Trays

These prefilled Opalescence teeth whitening trays are easy to take on the go. They contain 15% hydrogen peroxide with a minty flavor, and each pack comes with 10 treatments.

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File this under our favorite Amazon hacks: It turns out the mega online retailer has a secret storefront of professional skin care and beauty products from dermatologist-approved brands. Dubbed the Professional Skin Care section, this trove of expert-quality beauty products contains everything from cleansers to sun care to makeup. 

With so many amazing beauty products offered, it can be overwhelming to sift through the expansive selection. That’s why we’ve done the work for you and highlighted 10 of the best products you can shop from Amazon’s Professional Skin Care selection. 

Shop this article: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, PCA SKIN Hydroquinone-Free Pigment Gel Dark Spot Corrector and Eau Thermale Avene Cleanance Cleansing Gel

How to access Amazon’s secret beauty storefront

You won’t find a big button on Amazon’s home page to direct you to the secret beauty-themed storefront. Instead, you can click here to access all the professional-grade skin care and makeup products in one place. 

Amazon organizes the storefront by category — including oils and serums, body care and treatments and masks — so it’s easy to find exactly what you’re looking for. Or, if you just want to browse the expansive selection, you can click "Shop All." 

You can also shop the storefront by a specific skin care concern. There are collections of products to address various concerns including lines and wrinkles, acne, sensitive skin or dryness. We love that there’s an extensive collection of sun protection products, from sunscreen to tinted SPF moisturizers, since dermatologists recommend wearing SPF year-round — not just in the summer. 

Though many of the products in the Professional Skin Care section may be pricier than your average drugstore finds, you can feel confident purchasing them since everything in the secret storefront is expert-approved. That means the people who know the most about skin care (such as dermatologists) are fans of these exact products. 

Best professional skin care on Amazon

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

This unscented, oil-free face moisturizer won’t clog pores and is safe for sensitive skin.  It’s formulated with a combination of prebiotic thermal water, ceramide-3, niacinamide and glycerin, which work in tandem to leave your skin hydrated and restored. 

Eau Thermale Avene Cleanance Cleansing Gel

Great for acne-prone skin, this alcohol-free cleansing gel eliminates impurities without drying or stripping the skin. It’s noncomedogenic and can be used twice daily to cleanse your moistened face or body. 

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50

This broad spectrum SPF 50 tinted moisturizer will help protect your face from harmful ultraviolet rays while leaving a smoothing, matte finish on your skin. The nongreasy formula won’t leave a white cast on your skin and is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes. 

Dermablend Loose Setting Powder

Set your makeup, including concealer and foundation, with this blurring loose finishing powder. It has a translucent, matte finish and applies clear despite the white look of the powder. It’s fragrance-free, oil-free and lightweight. 

Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

Hyaluronic acid increases skin moisture and flexibility. In this daily face serum, it works as a leading ingredient to plump and strengthen the skin. The lightweight and fast-absorbing product is safe for sensitive skin and can be applied on cleansed skin before a moisturizer. 

PCA SKIN Hydroquinone-Free Pigment Gel Dark Spot Corrector

This spot treatment helps address discoloration on the skin by working to fade dark spots and even skin tone. The ultra-potent serum is formulated with kojic and azelaic acid to help promote a clearer complexion. It can be applied to a cleansed face and should be followed by sunscreen.

Revision Skincare Intellishade Original

This SPF 45 moisturizer blends seamlessly with your natural skin tone to reveal brighter and more even-toned skin. It contains brightening vitamin C, as well as a blend of three peptides, which work to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

NassifMD Detox Pads Facial Radiance Pads

Swipe these cleansing and exfoliating wipes across your face to help remove dead skin cells, clean pores and improve your skin’s overall complexion and texture. They’re formulated with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, mineral salts and aloe vera. 

Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Primer

This three-in-one product works as a moisturizer, a tightening mask and a facial primer to prep your skin for makeup application. The lightweight, clear jelly formula absorbs into your skin to create a smooth surface for applying foundation and concealer. Its silicone- and fragrance-free.

PCA SKIN Overnight Face Mask

Give your skin a boost of hydration while you sleep with this overnight hyaluronic acid-based sleeping mask. When worn for eight hours while you slumber, this mask helps quench dry skin and improve luminosity and radiance, leaving your skin looking healthier in the morning.

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What is vitamin D3? Your body creates this vitamin naturally when exposed to sunlight. In the winter, however, we tend to stay inside more, making it harder to get the proper amount of D3. There are a host of vitamin D3 deficiency symptoms that can be damaging to both the mind and body. Your bones, muscles and entire immune system need it to survive. Furthermore, your mood can be greatly affected by a shortage of D3. During the winter, pay attention to the amount of sun you get. If needed, take supplements to experience the vitamin D3 benefits for men, women and children discussed below.

Shop this article: Hum Here Comes The Sun High-Potency Vitamin D3 2,000 IU, Nature Made Extra-Strength Vitamin D3 Dietary Supplement and Feel Great Kids Vitamin D3 1000 IU Gummies

What is vitamin D3 good for?

Vitamin D3 benefits your body physiologically. It helps build strong muscles, and along with calcium, it builds strong bones, too. Vitamin D3 benefits your body throughout your life, but as you age, it can become harder for your skin to absorb it in the sun. Additionally, if you wear sunscreen or T-shirts to protect your skin from the sun, D3 does not develop in your body. If there is not enough D3 in your body, you can have severe problems like ongoing deficiency or bone issues.

Muscles

Vitamin D3 benefits your muscles by reducing pain and inflammation. It allows optimal muscle function and growth. This means that by boosting D3, not only are you preparing your muscles for a workout, they will feel better following the exercise. D3 supports muscles, and you can improve your strength by having the appropriate amount circulating through the body.

Bones

Not only do your muscles benefit from D3, but your bones do too. The vitamin strengthens bones and supports the absorption of calcium into the system. According to the Mayo Clinic, those with bone density issues or osteoporosis, especially older adults, can greatly benefit from D3 supplements. One of the vitamin D3 benefits for women is that it's useful for boosting bone strength post-menopause.

Benefits without a sunburn

If you take a vitamin D3 supplement, you get all of the benefits of the sun without the worry of sunburn. The body produces D3 when the sun hits your skin, but the sun can also harm your skin, so protect it by taking a quality supplement.

Vitamin D3 is a mood booster

Without enough D3 in your body, your mood suffers, and you can become depressed. According to the National Institutes of Health, D3 regulates mood and assists in fighting off depression. If you do notice a dip in how your body or mind feels, talk to your doctor and consider discussing introducing vitamin D supplements.

Natural antidepressant

Since D3 is helpful in regulating mood, it can be used as a natural antidepressant. If you find that you are feeling low and you haven’t been outside in a while, D3 could be what you are missing. However, depression is a serious condition, and you should consult a doctor if you are feeling depressed. It is great for mood stabilization, but it alone cannot resolve certain psychological complications.

Vitamin D3 supports your immune system

Your immune system is strongly supported by having a healthy amount of vitamin D3. A properly working immune system improves the way your body fights off disease and helps heal your body from injury. By taking D3, you can help your body overcome illness and reduce inflammation. It also improves kidney function and acts as a preventive measure for certain cancers.

Kidney function

The National Institutes of Health says that vitamin D3 is used during the treatment of chronic kidney conditions because of the relation to low vitamin D in patients with kidney diseases. D3 or D2 can be used, but D3 is thought to be more effective according to the NIH. If you wish to improve your kidney function, consult your doctor about adding vitamin D3 to your diet. Vitamin D3 can also be useful for people with darker skin, older people or those with larger body mass as it is not as easily absorbed into all body types.

Cancer prevention

Taking D3 instead of going out into the sun for hours on end can make the difference in certain kinds of cancer, such as skin cancer. By replenishing your body with D3 through supplements, you avoid being exposed to the sun for longer periods.

Best vitamin D3 supplement options

Hum Here Comes The Sun High-Potency Vitamin D3 2,000 IU

These D3 softgels are easy to take, cruelty-free and vegan. They include the daily recommended vitamin D3 dosage for adults in each capsule.

Now Foods Vitamin D3 5,000 IU Softgels

These are affordable, high-potency softgel tablets that achieve maximum results for those with a significant deficiency. They promote your immune system and help create strong bones.

Nature Made Extra-Strength Vitamin D3 Dietary Supplement

If you're not a fan of taking vitamin capsules, consider these tasty gummies with strawberry, peach and mango flavors. They're extra-strength vitamin D3 gummies with no artificial sweeteners. 

Feel Great Kids Vitamin D3 1000 IU Gummies

These gummies have the proper vitamin D3 dosage for children ages four and up. The plant-based chews have a citrus flavor that kids will love.

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Hanging décor on your walls is a great way to inject some of your own style into a space, particularly if you rent and aren't allowed to paint or hang wallpaper. But, for many, this starts and ends with framed art or photos, when actually, you can go beyond this by hanging a range of decorative items, from textiles to vintage plates. 

If you're looking for some of the best decorative objects to hang on walls, it's time to get creative. Whether you want to hang something classic, like a planter, or playful, like a basketball hoop, you're sure to find something that fits your vibe. 

Shop this article: THE ART BOX Tree of Life Wall Hanging, Kazai Wall Planters and Hudeur Wall Hanging Baskets

Why look beyond frames for wall decor? 

There's nothing wrong with hanging framed art or photos on your wall, but why stop there? It's not an either/or situation. Think of it like pizza toppings — sure, you like olives on your pizza, but that doesn't mean you can't also have bell peppers in the mix or a nice handful of arugula. Framed art is great, but it can look boring if it's your only wall decoration. Finding other decorative objects to hang on walls brings extra flavor. It instantly makes rooms look more stylish because it shows you've thought beyond the usual. 

The best decorative objects to hang on walls can be personal ones. Maybe you have a vintage quilt your grandma made for you or a collection of antique plates that feel too special to use every day. Hanging objects like these is a great way to display them. 

But, of course, you don't have to have family heirlooms or collections of antiques to embrace this decorative choice. There are plenty of items you can buy to hang on your wall and show off your style. 

Best decorative objects to hang on walls

THE ART BOX Tree of Life Wall Hanging

Textiles are great for hanging on walls, adding texture and interest to a room, and while you hang any textiles of your choosing, wall hangings are light and usually easy to put up. This one has a tree of life design in a choice of seven colors, including yellow, orange and rainbow. 

Kazai Wall Planters

These ceramic hanging planters have backs that sit flush against a wall so they sit nicely. If you love plants and struggle to find enough space for all that you want, these are a great choice. They come in a set of three, which you can hang together or individually.

Hudeur Wall Hanging Baskets

Woven baskets look great on walls and these come in a set of 10 that are designed to be hung together. That said, you can hang them separately, if you prefer, and you can configure them however you like. There's a choice of four 10-piece sets, each with its own mixture of colors and patterns, as well as a smaller four-piece set. 

Royal Albert 100 Years Plate Set

Released to celebrate 100 years of the Royal Albert pottery, this plate set includes recreations of vintage and retro designs from the years 1950 to 1990. If you don't have genuine vintage plates but like the idea of hanging them on your wall, this set gives you a selection of modern vintage-style plates with striking floral patterns. 

Flber Macrame Wall Hanging

Measuring 59 inches across, this black, white and gray macrame wall hanging makes a striking decorative centerpiece for any room. It has a bold geometric design that's softened by the soft textile nature of the piece. You can also choose from five other designs in a range of sizes and hues.

HZDHCLH Wall Clock

You might think of wall clocks as practical items, rather than pieces of décor, but there's no reason why they can't be both. Simple yet stylish, we love this clock with a range of contemporary design schemes, such as Scandinavian and Japanese minimalist. It's great hung alone or as part of a gallery wall. 

VEBAVO Floating Bookshelves

These floating bookshelves not only look great, they also maximize space. They have a series of straps so that they can hold books below the shelf, then you can put your choice of items on top. Whether that's ornaments, plants or yet more books, they act as wall decoration in their own right. 

Matani Metal Dog Wall Décor 

Dog lovers will adore this wall decoration in the form of a sleeping dog. It looks like a line drawing, but it is really made from black metal. It looks contemporary and stylish and shows off the wall behind it, which looks especially great on light-colored walls because of the contrast. There are seven other cat and dog designs available. 

Cali Kiwi Pros Indoor Basketball Hoop

If you're a huge basketball fan, you can integrate your passion into your home décor by hanging a basketball hoop on your wall. This is one of the more attractive options available with a wooden backboard in a choice of four hues. 

Fdit Rabbit Head Wall Hanging

If you like your décor quirky, this metal-effect monocle-wearing rabbit will look great up on your wall. It hangs on a standard picture hook, so there's no special hardware required. 

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Have you ever wanted to live más — without leaving the house? Thanks to Walmart, you can now think outside the bun in the comfort of your own kitchen. Taco Bell has partnered with Walmart to exclusively sell Crunchwrap Supreme and Chipotle Chicken Quesadilla meal kits, packed with Taco Bell seasonings and sauces that will let you re-create fast-food favorites without even having to enter a drive-thru.

And before you run out to get your hands on these "cravings kits," you'll want to make sure you have everything you need for an at-home taco party — from taco holders to themed hand towels.

Get these kits to make Taco Bell Crunchwraps and quesadillas at home

Taco Bell at Home "cravings kits" are available exclusively at Walmart. Currently, you can get kits to make Crunchwrap Supremes and Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas at home.

The Crunchwrap Supreme kit sells for $7 and includes four 12-inch flour tortillas, four crunchy tostada shells, Velveeta cheese sauce and taco seasoning.

The Chipotle Chicken Quesadilla kit also sells for $7 and includes four 10-inch flour tortillas, creamy chipotle sauce and Velveeta cheese sauce.

With both kits, you need to add your own protein. You can also add your own fresh toppings, like lettuce, tomato, guacamole and anything else your heart desires. This is truly living más.

Must-haves for taco lovers

Corque Taco Holders Set of 6

Make taco night much more colorful with this set of six taco holders in bright neon colors. Taco holders are the best way to level up your taco game — they hold your soft shells upright, keeping all your toppings securely inside. They're even reversible — they can hold two tacos on one side, and three on the other.

LXOMILL Funny Taco Kitchen Towels

Show everyone your love of tacos with this set of two funny taco-themed dish towels. One pictures a hard-shell taco with the message, "Every now and then I fall apart." The other has the uplifting missive, "You can't make everyone happy, you are not a taco." Words to live by.

mermaker Burritos Tortilla Throw Blanket 2.0

Ever wondered what it would feel like to be a burrito? Wonder no more. You can get cozy inside this oversized tortilla throw blanket for movie night, Taco Tuesday or any other occasion.

Primitives by Kathy Not A Taco Inset Sign

Need to decorate your home for taco night? This sign is the perfect piece to add, with that message that everyone needs to hear once in a while: "You can't make everyone happy, you're not a taco."

Alex and Eve Home Bamboo Taco Tray with Tong

When you need to feed a crowd (with tacos), this tray is the perfect thing to add to your arsenal. It's 16 inches long with slots to hold up to eight hard-shell tacos, perfectly upright so all their toppings stay in place. Happy Taco Tuesday!

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

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Every year since 1999, Pantone has announced a hot new color to be its "Color of the Year," with the kink that it’s for the upcoming year, not the year that’s coming to an end. This year, the 25th anniversary, the winner is “Peach Fuzz,” or Pantone code 13-1023.

With that announcement comes an explosion of “Peach Fuzz”-colored goods, from makeup products and clothes to toys, towels and tablets. And this is only the beginning. Pantone colors of the year are meant to shine a light on the intersection of color and culture, and it usually works. So get ahead of the style curve and get your “Peach Fuzz” goods now, rather than wait for all the fervor to die down.

Shop this article: AD Beads Silk Tassel Earrings, Amazon Essentials Pullover Hoodie and L’Oreal Paris Lipstick

‘Peach Fuzz’ in Pantone’s own words

Pantone says, "'Peach Fuzz' captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It’s a velvety gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body and soul.”

But why go with that direction for this year’s “Color of the Year?” The Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, Leatrice Eiseman, had this to say: “In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.”

Past Pantone ‘Color of the Year’ winners

Pantone’s own records only go back to 2010, but other sources, such as HouseBeautiful, do have the complete collection. Here are all the winners starting from “Peach Fuzz” and going back. To see the colors for yourself, just google the Pantone code.

• 2024: “Peach Fuzz,” Pantone code 13-1023.
• 2023: “Viva Magenta,” Pantone code 18-1750.
• 2022: “Very Peri,” Pantone code 17-3938.
• 2021: This year featured dual winners, for the second time in Pantone’s “Color of the Year” history. They are “Illuminating,” Pantone code 13-0647, and “Ultimate Grey,” Pantone code 17-5104.
• 2020: “Classic Blue,” Pantone code 19-4052.
• 2019: “Living Coral,” Pantone code 16-1546.
• 2018: “Ultra Violet,” Pantone code 18-3838.
• 2017: “Greenery,” Pantone code 15-0343.
• 2016: This year also featured dual winners, for the first time in Pantone’s “Color of the Year” history. They are “Rose Quartz,” Pantone code 13-1520, and “Serenity,” Pantone code 15-3919.
• 2015: “Marsala,” Pantone code 18-1438.
• 2014: “Radiant Orchid,” Pantone code 18-3224.
• 2013: “Emerald,” Pantone code 17-5641.
• 2012: “Tangerine Tango,” Pantone code 17-1463.
• 2011: “Honeysuckle,” Pantone code 18-2120.
• 2010: “Turquoise,” Pantone code 15-5519.
• 2009: “Mimosa,” Pantone code 14-0848.
• 2008: “Blue Iris,” Pantone code 18-3943.
• 2007: “Chili Pepper,” Pantone code 19-1557.
• 2006: “Sand Dollar,” Pantone code 13-1106.
• 2005: “Blue Turquoise,” Pantone code 15-5217.
• 2004: “Tigerlily,” Pantone code 17-1456.
• 2003: “Aqua Sky,” Pantone code 14-4811.
• 2002: “True Red,” Pantone code 19-1664.
• 2001: “Fuchsia Rose,” Pantone code 17-2031.
• 2000: And the inaugural “Color of the Year,” “Cerulean,” Pantone code 15-4020.

Best ‘Peach Fuzz’ items

AD Beads Silk Tassel Earrings

These adorable and affordable tassel earrings are just the thing for a throwback party. And what better way to bring in the new year than with the new year’s “Color of the Year?” They also come in 32 other colors if you like the style and want options for other outfits.

Amazon Essentials Pullover Hoodie

The classic hoodie is one of the most versatile articles of clothing you can have. You can wear it for errands, for exercising, when you feel sick and want some warmth, to classes, to casual Fridays at work … the list goes on. Pro tip: Avoid the strings from getting messed up by tying a knot at the tips.

Zkptops Spa Set

Hair always seems to get in the way when you’re trying to have a little spa day at home. This set helps keep your hair controlled without being uncomfortable. Get a bit of water splashed where it shouldn’t? The wrist guards are absorbent to quickly clean on the go.

L’Oreal Paris Lipstick

A good shade of lipstick can open up whole new worlds for someone stylistically. “Peach Fuzz” may not be everyone’s shade, but this lipstick is affordable enough for you to feel safe giving it a try. It also comes in 65 other colors if you like the stick but “Peach Fuzz” doesn’t work for you.

American Soft Linen Towel Set

This six-piece set comes with two hand towels, washcloths and full-sized towels. Considering most bathrooms use neutral colors, they’re a great place to show off all “Colors of the Year” no matter what future shades may be chosen. It also comes in 19 other colors, including 2002 winner, “True Red.”

Jellycat Peach Plush

This adorable little plush takes the “Color of the Year” a little literally, but that’s OK. Not everything has to be subtle. It makes a great decoration or even a good toy for children as young as a few months old.

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Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Attending the Golden Globes is much more than a night to get dressed to the nines, walk a red carpet and celebrate some of the best movies of the year. The awards ceremony just revealed in a press release everything that will be included in the coveted gift bags attendees will receive, which are reportedly worth $500,000 this year. 

The bags were curated by luxury lifestyle magazine Robb Report, and they include tons of exclusive items, such as private jet credits, a session with a celebrity tattoo artist and must-have beauty products (from Black Diamond Retinol Oil to Truffle Eye Serum).

Learn about what's included in the gift bags below, and if you feel like treating yourself, you can even purchase some of the less exclusive beauty products inside this year's bags.

Shop this article: 111SKIN Rose Gold Brightening Facial Treatment Mask, Byroe Tomato Anti-Aging Serum, CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask

What makes a Golden Globes gift bag so valuable?

The gift bags are given to all the presenters and winners at the 2024 Golden Globes. Each one contains more than 35 luxury products, most of which will go to all 83 recipients, though there are a few extra-special products that are only gifted to a select few attendees.

For example, all of the presenters and winners will receive multiple travel experiences, including a five-day yacht charter in Indonesia (valued at $50,000) and a five-day "luxury experience" at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman (valued at $20,000).

Up to 10 recipients will get $10,000 in flight credits to XO Jet (valued at $11,000). Just one recipient will receive a pair of Coomi x Muzo emerald earrings that retail for $69,000. And one lucky guest will get six bottles of the most expensive wine in the world, Liber Pater, which sells for $193,500. The rest of the recipients will be able to enjoy a more reasonable option: La Distillerie de Monaco's Limited Edition Eden Roc Gin (valued at $275).

If you want to live like a Golden Globes attendee, you can buy some of the items included in the gift bags on Amazon. All of them that are available to purchase are listed below.

Shop the Golden Globes 2024 goody bag

111SKIN Celestial Black Diamond Retinol Oil

This retinol oil is meant to be used at night when its 1% retinol can smooth uneven skin texture and smooth away age spots and fine lines.

111SKIN Rose Gold Brightening Facial Treatment Mask

The hydrogel formula in this face mask infuses your skin with hydrating ingredients for radiance and glow.

Byroe Tomato Anti-Aging Serum

Upcycled tomato helps this serum make your skin feel smoother and plumper. Its four-in-one formula targets sagging, fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness.

Byroe Truffle Eye Serum

Depuff and firm your under eye with this delicate, lightweight eye treatment that melts into the skin.

CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask

This face mask is made from patented flexible silicone that wraps around your face so LED light therapy can penetrate from every angle.

Le Domaine Luxury Face Cream

Le Domaine face cream offers a silky, whipped texture that feels luxurious — plus it deeply nourishes and protects skin as it promotes anti-aging.

S.T. Dupont Le Grand Cling Lighter

This isn't the exact S.T. Dupont lighter given to Golden Globes attendees, but it's the closest one you can buy online — and it has that classic "ping" sound that's emblematic of Dupont lighters.

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Anyone who follows the trends of TikTok and Gen Z probably already knows about the Stanley collab with Starbucks — and may have even camped out at a Target this week trying to get their hands on a glittery pink tumbler. The partnership caused mayhem at stores as fans camped overnight to try to score one of a limited number of Starbucks x Stanley Quencher pink tumblers — and some of those who were lucky enough to buy them were resellers who have now listed them online for exorbitant markups.

Here's everything you need to know about the coveted cups — and some alternative pink Stanley tumblers you can buy if you missed the boat on this collab.

Shop this article: Stanley 30 oz Stainless Steel H2.0 Flowstate Quencher Tumbler Sizzling Pink, Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler 40oz Pink Dusk, Stanley 40 oz. Quencher H2.0 Valentines Day Tumbler Cosmo Pink

Here's what's going on with the Starbucks Stanley Quencher collab at Target

If you're on TikTok, you probably already know about Stanley Quenchers. They're insulated, 40-ounce tumblers with a cult following for their ability to keep drinks at temperature for hours (plus they come in tons of colors and look cute). 

On Jan. 3, Stanley released a collaboration with Starbucks: a “Winter Pink” tumbler sold exclusively at Target. Starbucks, which just announced it would allow customers to bring their own reusable cups when picking up drive-thru and mobile orders, announced that the glittery pink tumblers would be available at Target for $49.95 as long as supplies last. If TikTok is any indication, supplies didn't last long. Videos show people lining up outside Target, even as early as the night before. Some people also recorded altercations over the cups. Yikes.

Pink Stanley Quenchers you can actually get your hands on (maybe)

If you have to have a pink Stanley tumbler, there are a few options on Amazon. They're all marked up from typical Stanley prices (some of them by a lot), but that's the price you pay for fashion, right?

Stanley 30 oz Stainless Steel H2.0 Flowstate Quencher Tumbler Sizzling Pink

This 30-ounce quencher has many of the same features of the 40-ounce version, like the comfort grip handle, narrow base to fit in cup holders, a splash- and spill-resistant lid with three positions and a reusable straw. This one is in the color Sizzling Pink, and it is available for $92.95.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler 40oz Pink Dusk

This 40-ounce Quencher is available in the color Pink Dusk, which is a warmer, more muted shade than the one from the Starbucks collab. But for anyone who loves pastels or neutrals, it'll fit right in. It's available for $86.99.

Stanley 40 oz. Quencher H2.0 Valentines Day Tumbler Cosmo Pink

Probably the closest thing you can get to the Starbucks color is this one: Cosmo Pink, a bright, cool shade. This 40-ounce Quencher is available online, but only if you want to drop $104.20 to get it.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler 40oz Rose Quartz

Another neutral shade, this Rose Quartz tumbler is one of the best deals you can get on a pink Stanley — it's just $62.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Many use winter travel to avoid cold temperatures or take time to visit their families. Others have to travel for work during the winter months. Whether you're going on vacation or a work trip, you'll want to bring the best travel gadgets. We rounded up a tech-filled list of what to pack in a carry-on bag to make your journey more comfortable and stress-free.

What to consider when traveling during winter months

Are you traveling for work or fun?

Those traveling for work should consider whether they’ll have a strong Wi-Fi connection at their destination. If not, it’s a good idea to pack a mobile hotspot or VPN router that protects your data on public networks. Device charging is another essential consideration, as you may have trouble finding an outlet at the airport. If that's the case, a portable charger would come in handy.

If you’re traveling for fun, consider bringing a camera to capture your favorite vacation moments. You’ll also want to bring a tablet or another device to keep you entertained during a long flight.

Will your destination be cold?

Unless you’re traveling somewhere that stays warm through the winter, you’ll want to make sure you’ve packed outerwear to keep you warm. A heated travel blanket is an excellent way to stay comfortable if your hotel or Airbnb has any issues with its heater. Rechargeable hand warmers are relatively new products that save space by eliminating the need to pack multiple disposable hand warmers.

How will you keep your belongings safe?

Along with the travel essentials we've already discussed, it's crucial to pack in durable luggage with safety features to keep people from accessing your belongings. Still, lost luggage is the biggest concern. It’s a good idea to pack an item finder, like the Apple AirTag, to ensure you know where your luggage is at all times.

Best winter travel gadgets

Apple AirTag

This compact gadget is an ideal way for iOS users to keep track of their belongings. It fits discreetly in your luggage, travel wallet and other valuable belongings. You can use the Find My app to easily find anything with an AirTag. It can use other iOS devices on the Find My network to extend its range dramatically.

GL.iNet Mango Pocket VPN Router

This is an excellent way to ensure you have Wi-Fi while traveling. Many RVers use it as an affordable way to have a secure connection no matter where they are. Its VPN capabilities let you use public networks as though they were private. It won’t take up much space in your carry-on luggage.

.

Anker 313 Power Bank

This power bank makes it easier to keep your devices charged during a long flight or while you wait in the airport. It features a slim design and uses Anker’s proprietary technology to ensure it delivers the perfect amount of energy to your devices. It’s available in black or white.

Yogasleep Rohm Portable White Noise Machine

This sound machine makes it easier to sleep when you arrive at your destination. It produces two types of white noise and ocean sounds. This compact machine is around 4 inches and only weighs 3.4 ounces. It’s rechargeable, so you don’t have to worry about packing batteries.

DJI Mini 3 Pro

This small drone is an excellent way to get top-notch photos and videos while on winter vacation. You’ll want to check the specific policies for the airline you’re using; most allow drones on flights, but you may need to remove the battery and keep it on you or in your carry-on suitcase. This captures 4K video and doesn’t require Federal Aviation Administration registration in most states.

Rechargeable Hand Warmer Two-Pack

These devices are an excellent way to keep warm on cold winter days. You can stick them together to warm both sides of the device or take them apart to have two hand warmers with one warm side each.

Etekcity Luggage Scale

This small scale is a great way to avoid extra fees for overweight luggage. It’s easy to use and provides accurate weight readings. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket and available in six colors.

Kindle Scribe

This Kindle is perfect for reading your favorite books and has a writing input that’s ideal for those who love taking notes. The battery lasts several weeks when fully charged, and the included pen doesn’t require a battery. This e-reader weighs less than 1 pound.

Sun Will Heated Glove Liners

These glove liners are an easy way to keep your hands warm while exploring the outdoors on cold days. The breathable design keeps your hands from sweating, and the fingertips let you use your smartphone without taking your gloves off. They’re available in four sizes.

GoPro Hero 11 Black

This GoPro camera captures 5.3K resolution video and has image stabilization features that ensure your video looks great when you’re in motion. Many were impressed with its battery life and ease of use. It has numerous video-enhancement features, including 8x slow motion and horizon lock.

Door Stopper Security Alarm

This device features an intuitive design that stops others from entering your room while sounding an alarm if someone tries to open your door. Many were impressed with how loud it is. It’s easy to set up and has various sensitivity levels. You can buy them individually or in a three-pack.

Master Luggage Lock

This affordable lock, which is approved by the Transportation Security Administration, keeps people from accessing your luggage. It’s available in four colors.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Beauty lovers have even more reasons to have a happy birthday in 2024 — Sephora has all-new birthday gifts for members of its Beauty Insiders program, and this year's picks are pretty amazing. 

It's easy to redeem free birthday gifts from Sephora — and since getting your free birthday item online requires a $25 purchase, check out some of Sephora's December bestsellers, from makeup brushes to sunscreen and more.

Shop this article: Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Contour Wand, Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Hair Oil, Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting and Laminating Eyebrow Gel

How to join Beauty Insider and redeem Sephora's free gifts

Free birthday gifts are only available to Beauty Insider members — that's Sephora's rewards membership. Luckily, it's super easy (and free) to sign up. All you have to do is head to the Beauty Insider page on the Sephora website, click "Join Now," and fill in your information. 

Beauty Insiders get tons of perks besides a free birthday item — they also get free standard shipping on all their orders, access to special savings events, end-of-year discounts, events and exclusive products. If you spend more, you can unlock higher membership tiers that get you even more perks.

Once you're a Beauty Insider member, you can redeem your free birthday gift any time during your birthday month. You can redeem it in-store at Sephora U.S. and Canada stores or Sephora in Kohl's stores, or online at Sephora.com or Kohls.com. If you redeem it online, a purchase of $25 or more is required.

Here are the birthday gifts you can choose from:

• Kosas Lip and Brow Birthday Set
• Youth To The People Cleanse & Hydrate Skincare Birthday Set
• Moroccanoil Ultimate Hydration Birthday Set
• Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Look Birthday Set (available online only)

Sephora’s December 2023 bestsellers

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Contour Wand

This semi-matte contour wand has a sponge applicator, which gives you all the control you need to create perfectly sculpted cheekbones. It's also lightweight and cushioned for easy blending, resulting in an effortlessly natural look to your contour.

Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Hair Oil

Olaplex No. 7 is a weightless styling oil that gives hair more softness and shine while increasing the vibrancy of its color (whether it's natural or color-treated). Like other Olaplex products, it also creates a natural protective barrier that prevents damage and frizz, keeping hair sleek and healthy.

Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting and Laminating Eyebrow Gel

This clear, waterproof brow gel is universal for all hair colors and styles. It shapes, lifts and sets brows in place — however you style them — without feeling sticky or crunchy.

Sephora Collection PRO Shadow Brush #15

This small, tapered brush is perfect for precise eyeshadow application — think in the smaller areas of your lids like along the lash line. Use it to intensify looks by adding details.

Supergoop! 100% Mineral Sheerscreen Sunscreen SPF 30

Supergoop's 100% mineral sunscreen is lightweight and completely sheer for comfortable, everyday wear that protects skin from UV, blue light and fine lines and wrinkles.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Why do we tend to forget that sleep is good for us? Experts recommend that adults sleep between seven and nine hours a night, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, but many of us don’t even come close on a regular basis. 

This winter, we’re challenging ourselves to embrace our darkness- and cold-induced desire to hibernate but stepping up our sleep environment with luxury upgrades. We’re revamping everything from our sleepwear to our bedtime atmosphere. That way, we can embrace and better enjoy giving our bodies and minds a much-needed reset during sleep. 

Shop this article: Cozy Earth Long-Sleeve Bamboo Pajama Set, SHARPER IMAGE Ultimate Sleep White Noise Sound Machine and Thisworks Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

How to have a more luxurious sleep experience

Yes, sleep is a routine part of your daily life, but there’s no reason it has to be mundane. By making a few simple upgrades to your sleepwear, your bedding and your bedroom atmosphere, you can elevate your sleep routine to the point that it feels like a destination rather than a necessity. If your sleep space is more inviting, you may find it easier and more pleasant to relax. Here are tips for elevating your sleep experience: 

Try luxe pajamas

Your old T-shirt and boxers might be weighing you down — literally. The right pajamas can feel better against your skin, fit better and even help you cool down if you tend to run hot. We love high-quality fabrics, such as bamboo and washable silk. 

Invest in quality bedding

If you’re too cold or too warm while you sleep, it can be quite a disruption. Try looking at your bedding and seeing how it can be improved. Ask yourself: Are your sheets soft and comfortable? Do you have cozy throw blankets you can add for extra warmth? Do you find the color scheme relaxing?

Consider relaxing scents and sounds

Filling your sleep environment with relaxing scents and sounds can help you unwind. If you want to block out sounds, such as cars going by or creaking in your home, try a sound machine. Many noise machines offer a variety of relaxing sounds — from white noise to ocean waves — so you can choose the soundtrack that feels most calming to you. Pillow sprays and diffusers can fill your space with soothing scents. We recommend lavender, which can help promote relaxation and calm anxiety. 

Use an eye mask

If your sleep environment isn’t pitch dark — or if you’re taking a daytime nap — you may find that using a sleep mask helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep better since it blocks out all light. We recommend a silk eye mask since silk fabric is better for your delicate eye skin because it doesn’t draw moisture like cotton and is less prone to creasing your skin. Make sure the eye mask isn’t too tight either. 

Best products to elevate your sleep routine

Cozy Earth Long-Sleeve Bamboo Pajama Set

This super-soft and lightweight pajama set made Oprah’s list of Favorite Things — and for good reason. Crafted from high-quality viscose from bamboo, the long-sleeve set enhances breathability and provides a luxurious drape that keeps you degrees cooler than cotton while you sleep. It comes in 10 gorgeous colors, and sizes XS-XXL in tall and regular lengths. 

Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Long PJ Set

Silk makes an excellent pajama fabric because it's thermoregulating, meaning it’ll help keep you cool when the weather is hot and warm when the weather is cold. Plus, it feels super luxurious to the touch and just looks so fancy. While silk can be difficult to launder and require dry cleaning, we love that this set (in eight colors, sizes XS-XL) is machine-washable, making it easier and cheaper to maintain. 

Big Blanket Co. Original Stretch Blanket

Whether you’re napping on the couch or in your bed, this 10-foot-by-10-foot extra-large throw blanket will keep you cozy. It’s made with a specially formulated temperature-regulating blend of polyester and spandex to keep you warm but not overly hot. It’s delightfully soft to the touch and comes in 16 fun colors and patterns. 

SHARPER IMAGE Ultimate Sleep White Noise Sound Machine  

Drift off to any of 12 relaxing sounds, including white noise, ocean waves, a trickling stream and the rainforest. The device allows you to adjust the volume, as well as set a 30-, 60- or 90-minute timer (or you can listen to it uninterrupted all night long). It can be plugged in or run on four AA batteries, making it perfect for travel as well.

Thisworks Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

Spritz this mist onto your pillow or sheets before bed, and you’ll enjoy an aromatherapeutic blend of lavender, chamomile and vetivert to help calm your mind and body.

Slip Silk Sleep Mask

Available in 24 beautiful colors and patterns, this 100% silk sleep mask will block out light while you slumber without drawing moisture from your skin or creasing the delicate area around your eyes.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

If the snow starts falling and all you can think about is how you will get to work, chances are that question can lead to some anxiety and tension. It’s worse if you aren’t used to driving in the snow and ice, whether you’re new to an area or it’s one of those rare winter storms. You don’t have to feel anxious driving on snowy or icy roads if you’re properly prepared. It doesn’t take much to be prepared for winter road conditions, either. All you need to stay safe is a handful of winter driving tools kept in your trunk or inside your home.

In this article: Cartman Jumper Cables, SubZero Ice Scraper and WawaAuto Tire Traction Mats

Top 10 tools for cars 

The list of items you could keep on hand to be prepared for a car emergency or bad weather during the winter months is practically endless, but some of the best to have are:

• Jumper cables: Hopefully you already have a pair of these as they’re one of a few basic car-related emergency preparedness items everyone should have. It’s extra-important to have them in the winter months, as cold winter weather can quickly and easily sap an otherwise healthy battery all the way to dead.
• Jump starter: Jumper cables have one major downside: You need the help, and the battery, of a good Samaritan to give you the boost. Jump starters have no such downside as they’re just a big, powerful portable battery. They have alternate downsides, though, such as you having to regularly ensure that it’s charged and ready, the fact that the cold can also sap it and that they’re much more expensive than a basic pair of cables.
• Snow broom and ice scraper: One of the easiest ways to get stuck is to drive right into heavy snow because you couldn’t see out of your car. Both of these tools are wise to keep on hand, even though you may only need one. For example, snow brushes are used to remove the build-up of snow on top of your car so it can’t suddenly slide forward while you drive, blocking your windshield. Ice scrapers are used to scrape off any ice that may have accumulated on your windshield, windows and mirrors. You can also find combination snow brush and ice scrapers, though these can sometimes be a little unwieldy.
• Snow chains: If you’re new to the land of ice and snow, then you’re probably not familiar with tire chains. These get wrapped around your tires to give them more traction on slippery roads. Some are easier than others to install, so you should practice getting them off and on before you really need them. You also need to make sure they actually fit your winter tires.
• Tire traction mat: Sometimes when you get stuck, you’re just in a bit of a jam, rather than in a dangerous situation. Usually, these little jams are because you’re struggling to gain traction. If that’s the situation, and you don’t have or can’t put on tire chains, having a traction mat to slip under your wheels can easily give you the boost you need to get back on the road.
• Shovel: If your situation is slightly more dire, you may need to move some snow out of the way. You could do it with your hands, which is miserable, or you could have a small shovel on hand to help you out.
• Rock salt: If it’s not snow you’re trying to move but ice, the best method of attack is to melt that ice. Rock salt is the most natural way to do it and also the fastest.
• Snowmelt: However, rock salt only works if you’re in snowy weather conditions no colder than 5 degrees. If the temperature drops even more, you’ll need chemical snowmelt. This can work in freezing temperatures of -15 to -25, depending on the formula.
• Tow strap: If you're caught in terrible driving conditions and your car goes careening off the road into a snow-packed ditch, you’re going to need two things to get out: towing gear and a powerful vehicle. The vehicle you can’t prepare for, but the towing gear you can. There are several kinds, but straps are generally best for basic car retrieval.

Winter driving tools to avoid getting stuck in the snow

Cartman Jumper Cables

These cables have ridged teeth on the clamps to help keep them in place, even on smooth surfaces. They come in three lengths and five gauges.

Sold by Amazon

Noco Jump Starter

This starter can jump up to 40 times on a single charge and can be used successfully on gasoline engines of up to 9 liters and diesel engines of up to 7 liters. 

Sold by Amazon

Snow Joe Snow Brush

This brush has LED lights built into the head so you can clearly see what you’re doing, even in the darkest parking lot. It also has a telescoping pole for lengths of 33 to 52 inches.

Sold by Amazon

SubZero Ice Scraper

This scraper is larger than most at 10 inches long, with a 4-inch-wide blade. This lets you clear more faster, so you can get to work on time even if you start clearing late.

Sold by Amazon

Security Chain Tire Chains

Options are the name of the game for these chains, as there are 17 that can be attached to the wheels of passenger cars, pickup trucks and SUVs.

Sold by Amazon

WawaAuto Tire Traction Mats

These mats (two included) fold in three places to make it easier to keep them in your car and to give you a chance to adjust to unlevel terrain. 

Sold by Amazon

Cartman Shovel

This shovel has three length settings to adjust for your needs: 23, 26 and 32.5 inches. It comes in three colors and can be bought alone or in a set that includes an ice scraper and a storage bag.

Sold by Amazon

North American Salt Rock Salt

This 50-pound bag of pure salt is enough to melt several patches of ice, though you might have trouble lifting and pouring it. Using your shovel to scoop and spread could help, though.

Sold by Amazon

Snow Joe Snowmelt

This snowmelt is non-damaging to plant life and is safe for use around homes with pets. It comes in 25- and 50-pound bags, a 10-pound jug, a 30- and 60-pound box and a 25-pound bucket.

Sold by Amazon

Rhino USA Tow Strap

This tow strap comes in six sizes with widths of 2, 3 or 4 inches and lengths of 8, 10, 20 and 30 feet. It has a break strength of 31,518 pounds.

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 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Now that the new year is here, so is a new winter menu at Starbucks — and pistachio fans will be happy to hear that some fan-favorite drinks are making a return this year, alongside some delicious new food options to keep you warm in the cold months ahead. Along with the winter menu, Starbucks is also introducing sustainable new ways to use your favorite reusable cups when you order. Here's everything you need to know.

Shop this article: Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler - 20-ounce, Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler - 30-ounce, Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler - 40-ounce

What's on the new Starbucks winter menu?

There's a brand new drink making its debut this year: the Iced Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso. It's made with Starbucks Blonde Espresso, sweetened with hazelnut syrup, shaken and topped with oat milk for the perfect finish.

The new drink joins two fan favorites on the winter menu.

The Pistachio Latte features pistachio and brown butter flavors mixed with espresso and milk. It's available hot, iced or blended as a Frappuccino. 

Also coming back this year is the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew, which is made with Cold Brew sweetened with vanilla syrup and topped with pistachio cream cold foam and salted brown butter sprinkles.

The winter food menu features a few new items: Potato, Cheddar & Chive Bakes, which combine eggs, diced potatoes, cheddar cheese, spinach and chives, all baked until they're crispy and golden brown.

There's also the Vanilla Bean Custard Danish, made with sugared Danish dough that's filled with vanilla bean custard.

A new addition to the menu that's sticking around permanently is the Chicken, Maple Butter & Egg Sandwich, made with breaded white-meat chicken, eggs and maple butter spread on a toasted oat biscuit roll.

Starbucks now accepts reusable cups for mobile and drive-thru orders

As it rolls out its winter menu, Starbucks also announced that it will allow customers to bring their reusable cups to use for mobile and drive-thru orders at all stores in the U.S. and Canada.

Customers who use their own cups receive a 10-cent discount and 25 Bonus Stars if they're a Starbucks Rewards member.

If you order in-store, simply tell the barista you brought your own cup, and they'll take it from you. If you order in a drive-thru, let them know when you place your order. When you pull up to the window, they'll take your cup in a contactless vessel and return it with your drink in the same way. If you order via the Starbucks app, there's now a new option under the "Customization" button to select "Personal Cup." When you arrive at the store, give your cup to a barista and they'll prepare your drink.

Reusable cups for your next Starbucks run

Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler - 20-ounce

Stanley's double-wall vacuum insulation keeps hot drinks hot for up to four hours and cold drinks cold for up to eight. This tumbler is the perfect size to take anywhere with a spill- and splash-resistant top and a straw for easy sipping.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler - 30-ounce

Drink more with the Flowstate Tumbler in this 30-ounce capacity, with a comfort-grip side handle for easy carrying and a narrow base to fit in cup holders.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler - 40-ounce

Need more hydration? This tumbler has a massive 40-ounce capacity so you can take your favorite drinks with you wherever you go.

Stanley Deco Collection Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler - 40-ounce

Stanley's Deco Collection puts a stylish spin on its TikTok-famous 40-ounce tumblers — plus, they'll keep your favorite Starbucks drinks at the perfect temperature for hours, whether you like them hot or cold.

Stanley Winterscape Iceflow Flip Straw Tumbler - 30-ounce

Is there a more perfect place to put a Starbucks winter menu beverage than in a Winterscape Stanley cup? Need we say more?

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

A new year is here, and with it, a chance to create new habits, try new hobbies, restock or redecorate your home and tackle other projects. And thanks to Amazon's New Year's sale, you can do it all at great prices.

The sale is huge — tons of products are discounted sitewide, including popular favorites and bestsellers for up to 50% off. Whether you want to try out a new skin care routine, stick to your exercise goals or cook some healthy new recipes for the new you in the new year, Amazon has you covered with some amazing deals.

Shop this article: Amazon eero Pro 6 mesh Wi-Fi 6 system, Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker, American Soft Linen Luxury 6 Piece Towel Set

Get up to 50% off these bestsellers during Amazon's New Year's sale

TruSkin Vitamin C Face Serum

Give your skin a new year's refresh with this Vitamin C serum from TruSkin. It has brightening properties that will help make your skin tone more even while lightening dark spots and smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. During the New Year's sale, it's 56% off.

Original Peloton Bike

The Original Peloton is 21% off during Amazon's New Year's sale, so you can start your New Year's exercise goals off on the right foot. This indoor stationary bike is small-space friendly with its 4-by-2-foot footprint and features an immersive video screen where you can join workouts and compete with other Peloton owners.

Amazon eero Pro 6 Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System

The eero Pro 6 covers up to 6,000 square feet with mesh wifi technology that supports speeds up to a gigabit, so you can stream, game, work and more. It also doubles as a Zigbee smart home hub that can connect and control smart devices with Alexa. Get it during the New Year's sale for 40% off.

Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet

This 10.25-inch skillet is pre-seasoned and ready to cook with. It can go from the stovetop to the oven, the grill and even a campfire, making it super versatile for all your cooking needs. Get it during the New Year's sale for 42% off.

Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker brews single-serve cups in two sizes. It's programmable to auto-brew at set times and automatically turn off after idling to help save energy. Get it during the New Year's sale for 47% off.

American Soft Linen Luxury 6-Piece Towel Set

This six-piece towel set includes two bath towels, two hand towels and two washcloths, available in 20 colors. Get it for 58% off during Amazon's New Year's sale.

Fitbit Inspire 2 Health & Fitness Tracker

Fitbit's Inspire 2 Tracker features step, distance, activity, calorie and heart rate tracking and comes with a free one-year Fitbit Premium trial. Get it during the New Year's sale for 23% off.

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)

The Apple Watch SE is 20% off during Amazon's New Year's sale, so you can get all the features that help you stay active, productive and connected. This model features fitness and sleep tracking, crash detection, a heart monitor, a Starlight aluminum case and more.

HENCKELS Premium Quality 15-Piece Knife Set with Block

This 15-piece knife set includes everything you need to outfit your kitchen: a 3-inch paring knife, 5-inch serrated utility knife, 7-inch santoku knife hollow edge, 8-inch chef's knife, 8-inch bread knife, 4.5-inch steak knife set of 6, professional honing steel, kitchen shears and a hardwood knife block.

Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

Get up to 40 hours of immersive listening time with Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones. They feature Apple's W1 chip and Class 1 wireless Bluetooth connectivity for compatibility with both Apple and Android devices, plus adjustable fit and cushioned ear cups for comfortable, everyday use.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Enhancing the flavor of food isn’t the only benefit offered by spices. Many varieties, such as turmeric, provide a wide range of potential health benefits. With its anti-inflammatory properties, the use of turmeric for natural medicinal purposes dates back to antiquity in South Asia. Besides adding it to food, many people experience turmeric health benefits by taking it as a supplement. A quality turmeric supplement uses the best ingredients for optimal results.

Shop this article: New Chapter Turmeric Supplement, Further Food Golden Milk Organic Turmeric Powder and MBS Biotechnology Liquid Turmeric

Where does turmeric originate?

The spice is in the ginger family and is derived from turmeric root. It contains the compound curcumin, rich in antioxidants and gives the spice its bright yellow color. The turmeric plant is primarily grown in India, Asia and Central America.

How does turmeric reduce inflammation?

Turmeric’s ability to reduce inflammation is more than just wishful thinking. According to the Mayo Clinic, curcuminoids are vital compounds found in turmeric that are natural anti-inflammatories and may offer positive benefits for certain diseases.

Taking a turmeric supplement is an easy way to add the anti-inflammatory benefits of spice to your diet. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that turmeric should not be used in place of essential medicines to treat diseases. It's important to check with your doctor before taking turmeric supplements.

How is turmeric beneficial?

Inflammation occurs when the body detects injury, illness or bacteria, leading to the immune system emitting cells to promote healing. Over time, prolonged inflammation can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as pain and swelling and result in various diseases like heart issues and cancer. Taking steps to reduce inflammation may lower such risks. While turmeric is not a cure, it may help ease various symptoms and health issues, such as:

• Muscle and joint pain
• Digestive concerns
• Skin irritation and inflammation
• Arthritis
• Stress
• Insomnia

Turmeric supplement features

If you are considering adding turmeric to your diet to see if its anti-inflammatory properties work for you, taking a supplement or adding it to food are good ways to start.

Types

Turmeric supplements come in several forms. Turmeric pills or capsules are the most common option, but turmeric powder is also popular. Although not as readily available, you’ll also find turmeric in liquid, tablet, soft gel and gummy forms.

If you have difficulties swallowing capsules, consider one of the other available forms of turmeric. What’s more, if you choose turmeric powder, you can easily consume this versatile option by mixing it with food or beverages.

Strength

The potency of most turmeric supplements is measured in milligrams and ranges from approximately 500 to 1,500 milligrams in each dose. The strength of powdered turmeric is typically measured in teaspoons or grams.

Absorption

Absorption is vital to getting the health benefits of turmeric, which can be a challenge if not consumed properly. Curcumin doesn’t absorb very well into the bloodstream, but pairing it with other foods can help.

Good fats like those found in lean meat, fish, nuts and avocado increase the absorption rate of the important compounds in the spice. Additionally, black pepper promotes its absorption by stimulating hydrochloric acid in the gut.

While adding these absorption boosters to your diet is an excellent way to get the most out of turmeric, some turmeric supplements are formulated with ingredients like coconut oil and black pepper to increase their effectiveness. Additionally, some turmeric supplements also contain probiotics that promote digestion, which in turn improves absorption.

How much can you expect to spend on turmeric supplements?

Turmeric supplements that cost less than $7 are available but may not be very potent and don’t contain premium ingredients. You’ll find the best options for $7 to $25, with top-quality supplements by recognizable brands falling on the higher end of the price spectrum.

If you plan to purchase turmeric powder, prices vary depending on the ounces in the package. However, on average, you’ll pay $5 to $10 for a package that contains 4 to 8 ounces and $10 or more up for bulk options or powdered turmeric with multiple ingredients.

Tips for getting the health benefits of turmeric

• Don’t like taking capsules? Try supplementing your diet with turmeric powder that’s easy to mix with food or beverages.
• Always take a turmeric supplement as directed on the packaging. Don’t exceed 8 grams of the spice per day.
• Check with your doctor before you begin taking turmeric for any health condition.
• For the best absorption, choose a turmeric supplement that contains black pepper.
• If you are a vegetarian, you’ll be pleased to know that many turmeric supplements are made with only plant-based ingredients.

What are the best turmeric supplements to buy?

New Chapter Turmeric Supplement

This quality turmeric supplement uses hundreds of compounds, so no black pepper is needed for optimal absorption.

Further Food Golden Milk Organic Turmeric Powder

This organic powder contains raw turmeric, adaptogenic herbs and superfoods containing anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Black pepper is included for maximum absorption. The 100% natural formula adds rich flavor to lattes, soups, stews, smoothies and more.

Gaia Herbs Turmeric Supreme Joint Health Supplement

These high-end capsules contain a bioavailable liquid turmeric formula, plus additional herbs, such as ginger and boswellia, to aid joint health.

MBS Biotechnology Liquid Turmeric

Anyone who doesn’t like to take capsules may appreciate this supplement's liquid formula. It's extra-strength, with 1,100 milligrams of turmeric per serving.

Nutricost Turmeric Capsules

These turmeric capsules are easy to swallow and have a high curcuminoid content. They also contain black pepper, so you get the most benefits with each dose.

Nature's Nutrition Turmeric Curcumin with BioPerine

This extra-strength turmeric curcumin supplement is blended with BioPerine and black pepper for absorption.

Caribou Nutrition Liquid Turmeric Curcumin

This liquid supplement is easy to absorb and has added BioPerine for optimal bioavailability. It’s simple to mix with shakes, smoothies and other nutritional drinks too.

BeLive Turmeric Curcumin With Black Pepper and Ginger Gummies

These tasty turmeric gummies have a tropical flavor to them. Each serving of two gummies contains 300 milligrams of natural turmeric root extract, 50 milligrams of ginger root extract and 10 milligrams of black pepper extract. 

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

If you’re still hanging onto ill-fitted jeans just waiting for a day when you might be able to squeeze into them, throw them out. Our New Year’s resolution is embracing who we are and where we’re at, and that means investing in clothes that actually fit our bodies right now. 

Denim jeans are notoriously tricky since it can be tough to get the perfect size. That’s why we’re all about stocking up on pants with a lot (and we mean a lot) of stretch. Ahead, you’ll find some amazingly stretchy jeans that are so comfortable, you may even be tempted to wear them while you lounge around.

New year, same you: Buy some clothes that fit you now

Our favorite places to shop for stretchy jeans

Though lots of jeans offer various degrees of stretchiness, we’re here to focus on pants with maximum stretch. We’re talking stretch and a comfort level that rivals your favorite pair of leggings. When we’re stocking up on ultra-comfortable jeans, these are the retailers we turn to again and again. 

NYDJ

In our opinion, this brand offers the absolute softest denim around. Of all of NYDJ’s denim collections, our favorite for maximum comfort is the Sure Stretch line, which the brand claims is an ultra-soft denim with yoga-pant-level comfort. After sampling a pair of NYDJ Sure Stretch jeans, we came away thoroughly impressed with the softness of the pants, which were more comfortable than any jeans we’d ever worn (honestly). 

With comfort and stretchiness as the main features, one might expect the jeans to look a bit frumpy and stretched out, but that is not the case. Though they feel like leggings, NYDJ jeans look just as sophisticated as any other pair of jeans. We also love that the brand offers petite, tall and plus-size jeans. 

Good American

If your weight tends to fluctuate, you might be familiar with having multiple pairs of jeans in your closet in various sizes which you cycle through depending on which fits best at the current moment. Khloe Kardashian’s denim brand has a genius solution for that very issue. 

Enter Good American’s Always Fits line of jeans. These jeans are sized by size ranges rather than specific numbers (for example: size 6-12 or size 14-18 plus). The concept is that if your jeans size is anywhere in that range, you’ll be able to wear the jeans, which expand and contract to comfortably fit your body wherever it is. 

We put a pair of Good American Always Fits jeans to the test (in size 6-12), and we have to admit we were skeptical when we saw the tiny pair of jeans that looked much smaller than a size 6. However, once we put them on, we understood the magic as the jeans were able to stretch to fit our body without feeling overly tight or constricting. 

Other tips for finding super-comfortable jeans

If you’re partial to another denim retailer, here are some tips for wading through their selections to find the most comfortable pairs they offer. 

Opt for jeggings

Jeggings are exactly what they sound like — bottoms that look like jeans but feel like leggings. Many jeggings are pull-on, though, without button closures, so it’s important to consider if you want that look and how to style it. 

Try oversized denim

The good news is that baggy jeans are in style, so you can’t go wrong with a pair of super-oversized bottoms. Just make sure the waist fits, but other than that, you’ll have a very roomy pair of jeans. 

Read online reviews

Sites like Amazon often have user-submitted reviews complete with photos. We recommend looking for reviewers who share a similar body type to yours and speak to the comfort of the jeans. That’s a good way to predict whether or not they’ll work for you. 

Best super-stretchy jeans

NYDJ Ami Skinny Jeans In Sure Stretch Denim

These ultra-soft jeans are designed to flatter every curve without ever being too tight or constricting. Though they look chic, they’re way more comfortable than you might expect. Feel free to squat, sit and lounge without any issues. 

NYDJ Slim Bootcut Jeans In Sure Stretch Denim

If you prefer a slightly roomier fit, consider these bootcut jeans, which come in five colors. They look super sophisticated with a pair of heels and no one will ever guess they’re as comfortable as your favorite pair of leggings. 

Good American Always Fits Good Legs Cigarette Jeans

These mid-rise, ankle-length jeans are made to accommodate bodies that vary up to four sizes, which is great news for people whose weight tends to fluctuate between sizes. They’re available in two different shades of blue. 

Good American Always Fits Good Legs Straight Jeans

These straight-cut black bottoms have some fun flair in the form of distressed knees. Though form-hugging, they’re not constricting, and they offer a comfortable and flattering mid-rise fit. 

No Nonsense Classic Denim Leggings

These button-less pull-on bottoms resemble jeans, but the cotton-polyester-spandex-blend fabric feels just like leggings. They come in eight colors and look especially good when styled with an oversized sweater.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

It's a new year, and the holiday season is officially over — or is it? If you've been putting off taking down your Christmas tree and other decorations, you're actually not wrong. Tradition says the "correct" time to take down the tree is on the day of the Feast of Epiphany, which marks the official end of the Christmas season.

Not sure how much longer you should leave your tree up? Here's what tradition says — and when most people say they take theirs down, tradition or otherwise.

Shop this article: ZOBER Christmas Ornament Storage Box, HOLDN’ STORAGE Christmas Ornament Storage Box, hatisan Large Christmas Ornament storage with Side Open

How long should you leave up your Christmas tree?

Most people don't know that the 12 days of Christmas (yes, from the popular Christmas carol) actually start on Christmas Day. They end on Jan. 6, which is the Feast of Epiphany, the date marking when the Three Kings arrived to deliver their gifts to the newborn Jesus. That's why, according to Christian tradition, the Christmas season ends on Jan. 6, and that's when you should take down your tree and other decorations. In fact, some believe it's bad luck to leave them up past that date.

But there are other considerations to keep in mind. If you have a live tree, make sure to keep giving it plenty of fresh water as long as you keep it up. If you notice it getting dry and crispy or dropping a ton of needles, it could become a fire hazard, and it's a good idea to take it down.

Beyond that, though, it's largely a personal choice when you put the décor away. According to an Opendoor survey in 2022, 84% of people put away Christmas decorations sometime in January, with 51% taking them down on or around New Year's Day. As for me, with a long, gray Chicago winter ahead of me? I'll leave them up until spring because we can all use the extra cheer.

The best products for storing Christmas ornaments and decorations

ZOBER Christmas Ornament Storage Box

This extra-large storage container safely stores away up to 128 ornaments in cube compartments that protect them from breaking during the off-season.

HOLDN’ STORAGE Christmas Ornament Storage Box

These cube storage boxes can hold up to 64 ornaments each. They also have label inserts, so you can easily see what's stored in each box.

hatisan Large Christmas Ornament storage with Side Open

These drawer-style ornament storage boxes give you easy access to the ornaments stored in each layer.

ZOBER Christmas Wreath Storage Container

These zip-up containers safely store up to a 30-inch wreath, keeping it safe from dust, moisture and other dangers when not in use.

Balsam Hill 120-Piece Deluxe Rolling Ornament Storage Chest

This ornament storage bag holds up to 120 ornaments. It rolls on wheels, so you can easily move it to a closet or storage unit.

IRIS USA 2Pack 60qt Plastic Clear Ornament Storage Box

These storage boxes are made of clear plastic, allowing you to easily see the type of ornaments stored inside.

BALEINE Plastic Christmas Ornament Storage Box with Dividers

The long, shallow shape of these ornament storage boxes allows them to be stored under a bed (for those with limited closet or basement space).

BROSYDA Christmas Tree Storage Bag

This waterproof storage bag can safely store away an artificial Christmas tree up to 9 feet tall.

Softkiss Extra Large Waterproof Christmas Tree Bags

This extra-large waterproof storage bag can hold up to two artificial trees (each up to 9 feet tall).

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Everyone gets tired of how their home looks eventually. You could go the easy route and simply rearrange your furniture, or perhaps buy new pieces. You could go the hard route, sell everything and move. Or you could go somewhere in the middle, and give your walls a fresh coat of interior paint. Even with an identical furniture setup, a different color can greatly shift the atmosphere and your mindset. Below, we discuss bold interior paint colors and the painting tools you need to transform your living space.

Shop this article: Tapix Plastic Drop Cloth, Trimaco Plastic Drop Cloth and Bates Choice Paintbrushes

Color symbolism

Colors have long symbolized various things across cultures and time. They don’t inherently hold these aspects but develop them through continuous association, and they’re always changing. If you're looking for paint color ideas, there are nine major ones to consider, with symbolism attached to each:

• Black is the color of death and grief and is usually avoided. However, you could use it in a screening room to help your TV or projector better stand out.
• Blue is the color of serenity, but it can also represent sadness.
• Green is the color of life and nature, but it can also represent greed and jealousy.
• Orange is an odd color in that it doesn’t have a clear symbol, but is nonetheless among the most attention-grabbing colors. Go with it if you want to be truly bold.
• Pink is similar to red in that it’s also a color of love, but it isn’t as mature or strong.
• Purple is most closely tied to the imagery of royalty, rather than to emotion like most colors.
• Red is the color of passion and love, but it can also represent danger.
• White is the color of innocence and purity. Pure white can be overpowering, though, so alternate shades of white are usually better for your home.
• Yellow is the color of joy and energy, but it can also represent fear and cowardice.

Use these colors of paint examples as a guide for choosing your ideal shade, based on the atmosphere or vibe that you want your room or rooms to have.

Color shades and samples

When it comes to painting your home, though, it’s rare to get a pure color. Instead, you go with a shade that mixes and matches various colors to create something new. Finding the perfect shade for your painting project can be a daunting task, as locations that sell paint typically have a staggering range of options.

The secret, then, is to use samples. There are two kinds:

• Swatch samples should be used first, and are often free at locations that sell paints. These come on little strips of paper with one strip usually having a handful of colors. Find the shades you like the most and hold the swatch to the wall to get a sense of what it might look like if you really painted. Try to narrow down your possibilities as much as possible, then move on to trials.
• Trial samples are tiny cans of honest-to-goodness paint, usually about 8 fluid ounces, that you can use to paint a roughly 4-by-4-foot square on your walls. The best part is they rarely cost more than a few dollars. Do this with each of your color shade finalists, then go grab a full can of the winner.

Tools for painting

Once you’ve finally chosen your new bold shade, it’s time to do the paint job. These paint tools make it the easiest:

• Painter’s tape is used to cover small things that you don’t want to paint, such as light switches. It’s also used to keep your drop cloth in place and to help paint straight lines.
• Plastic drop cloths are placed on your floors and furniture to avoid staining them with paint. Don’t use them at your own peril.
• Paintbrushes are used to get into small spaces and for painting around delicate things.
• Paint rollers are used for everything else so you don’t have to spend hours painting with a little brush.
• Paint trays hold the paint that your roller needs to be dipped in. You can use them as-is if you don’t mind cleaning them after or you can use tray liners instead.

Best painting tools

Duck Painter’s Tape

This tape comes in an impressive 11 options that change how many rolls are included and how long and wide each roll is.

ScotchBlue Original Multi-Surface Painter's Tape

This painter's tape is another great option, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use on a variety of surfaces. This pack comes with three rolls.

Tapix Plastic Drop Cloth

This collection of cloths contains six or 24 individual tarps that measure 9 by 12 feet. They come rolled in tubes that are easy to roll out and spread.

Trimaco Plastic Drop Cloth

This contains only a single cloth for those who just need to paint one small room. It measures 9-by-12 feet and is 7/10 of a millimeter thick.

Bates Choice Paintbrushes

This set of paint supplies includes four unique brushes. There are three square brushes in small, medium and large, plus a small, thin and angled brush for getting into corners.

Pro Grade Paintbrushes

This collection includes five unique brushes. There are small- and medium-sized square brushes and small, medium and large angled brushes.

Wooster Brush Paint Roller Frame

This roller frame is just one part of your painting setup, but it’s a major part. It’s 9 inches long and can be bought individually or as a set of two, three or four.

Pro Grade Paint Roller Covers

The other major part of your setup is the covers that slip onto the roller frame and hold the paint. This set includes six so you can swap into new colors as needed.

Bercom Handy Paint Tray

This tray can hold an entire gallon of paint. It has a magnetic brush holder built into the side to minimize mess and a handle for easy transport. It fits paint rollers up to 11 inches long.

Bates Choice Paint Tray Liners

If you don’t want to worry about cleaning your paint tray, you can use liners instead. These come in a pack of 10 or 20 and have dots on the rolling area to help get rid of excess paint.

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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 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

It's officially the part of winter when you need to double down on being cozy. The holidays are over, but we have several months of cold, gray weather ahead — so how do you make it bearable? Soups, stews, baked goods and other delicious creations that warm you up right from the inside, of course. And there's no better way to cook a perfectly comforting winter meal than with Le Creuset cookware. 

This French heritage cookery brand sells the kind of cookware you can invest in for life (and even pass down through generations) — but with a price tag to match. Luckily, during their ongoing winter savings event, you can get Dutch ovens, braisers and other classic pieces for up to 50% off. These kinds of savings don't come around often, so act quickly if you've had your eye on a Le Creuset piece for a while. We don't know how long these low prices will last or when they might come around again.

Shop this article: Le Creuset Elements Collection Mini Cocottes, Set of 4, Le Creuset Traditional Braiser with Glass Lid, Le Creuset Botanique Collection Mini Cocottes, Set of 4

Save on Dutch ovens and more 

Le Creuset Traditional Oval Dutch Oven

The Le Creuset Traditional Oval Dutch Oven is iconic for a reason. Strong and durable (and backed by a lifetime warranty), this is a piece that you can pass down for generations. Its enameled cast iron maintains even, consistent heat and is perfect for slow cooking, braising and roasting. Plus, its oval shape makes it well-suited to dishes like large cuts of meat.

Le Creuset Elements Collection Mini Cocottes, Set of 4

Mini cocottes are the perfect size for individual servings of a side dish or dessert, prepping ingredients, salt crocks or even just decorating a shelf in your kitchen. This set of four comes in classic Le Creuset colors made of durable stoneware with a non-porous, non-reactive, scratch-resistant glaze.

Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven

The round version of the classic Dutch oven is ideal for smaller families, couples or even single people. Its dome-shaped lid helps lock in moisture while the enamel coating resists staining and chipping, making it easy to maintain and clean.

Le Creuset Braiser with Iridescent Knob

The Le Creuset Braiser is even more versatile than a Dutch oven, with a shallow shape that makes it an excellent choice for shallow frying, steaming, stews, casseroles and more. It can go from the stovetop to the oven and is oven-safe up to 500 degrees.

Le Creuset Traditional Round Braiser

The round braiser is perfect for smaller cuts of meat, side dishes, casseroles and desserts.

Le Creuset Traditional Braiser with Glass Lid

The glass lid on this braiser allows you to monitor your dishes while they cook — but it still fits tightly to lock in moisture and flavor and circulate steam during the cooking process.

Le Creuset Classic 3-Piece Oval Baking Dish Set

Bakers will find everything they need in this three-piece set, which comes with baking dishes in three sizes to accommodate different dishes and cooking styles. Each one is crafted from premium stoneware with a nonstick glaze for easy clean-up.

Le Creuset Botanique Collection Mini Cocottes, Set of 4

Need ideas for what to make in your mini cocottes? Try individually sized cobblers, gratins or pot pies.

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

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The new year can come with toxic messages about body size and weight loss. But, rather than holding onto old clothes that used to fit you or waiting for your body to be smaller before you embrace new fashions, it's time to buy clothes that fit you now. Checking out the best inclusive-sizing brands is a great place to start. 

Everyone deserves to have clothes they love that fit and they feel great in, so make it your resolution to go shopping for some hot new outfits. From basics like pants and jackets to trendy jumpsuits and cute dresses, inclusive-sizing brands have something to suit most styles. 

New year, same you: Workout clothes that are also great for lounging

Which are the best inclusive-sizing brands? 

While many brands stop their sizes between 14 and 20, inclusive-sizing brands offer a more diverse range of sizes. Many go up to size 30 or higher, meaning more people can fit into their clothes. We recognize that even inclusive-sizing brands could go further with the range of sizes offered, but it's still significantly better than straight-size brands. More and more size-inclusive clothing brands are popping up, which is excellent, but we're going to focus on three classics: Universal Standard, Eloquii and Torrid. We'll tell you a little about each brand before hitting you with some of our favorite products. 

Universal Standard

Founded in 2015, Universal Standard aims to be the most size-inclusive clothing brand in the United States. As of 2019, every item of clothing in its collections is available in sizes from 00 to 40, making it truly inclusive to the majority of buyers. 

Universal Standard Elbe Stretch Poplin Shirt

Every wardrobe needs a classic button-down shirt — and this one fits nicely and comes in eight shades, including black and forest green. You can dress it up or down, wearing it buttoned to the top with a blazer or under a sweater for a dressy look or open over a band T-shirt if you prefer something more casual. 

Universal Standard Stephanie Wide-Leg Stripe Ponte Pants

If you're sick of jeans, branch out with these stylish pants. With wide legs and a contrasting stripe down each side, they're totally on-trend. They're made from quality fabric with a comfortable elasticized waistband. 

Universal Standard Kelsey Denim Jacket

You can't go wrong with a jean jacket. It's a great transitional piece for when it's too warm for a coat but too cold for just a sweater — not to mention it looks great with almost everything. This one comes in nine colors, including black, dark indigo and dried violet. 

Universal Standard Iconic Geneva Dress

This gorgeous velvet dress has a draped body and asymmetrical hem to make it stand out. In addition to its black velvet and golden velvet styles, it comes in 13 other hues in plain cotton, rather than a velvet finish.

Eloquii

Eloquii is a fashion-forward inclusive-sizing brand. If you're looking to give your wardrobe an on-trend update, this is the brand to consider. Its size ranges vary, but most pieces are available in sizes 14 to 28 — though some go up to size 32. 

Eloquii Long Relaxed Blazer

A well-fitting blazer can transform an outfit. It automatically makes jeans and a tee look dressier and effortlessly stylish. This blazer sits longer than most, reaching the upper thigh. It has a relaxed fit with two decorative buttons. 

Eloquii Sheer Yoke Sweater With Tie Neck

Live out your dark academia fantasies with this stunning sweater. The body of the sweater is black, then it has a contrasting white yoke neck with a sheer black bow. 

Eloquii Wide-Leg Cargo Jean

Early 2000s style is back and these wide-legged cargo pants are certainly a blast from the past. This is an elevated take on classic cargo pants. While they might be reminiscent of something you would have worn to a Slipknot show, these are versatile enough to dress up as well. 

Eloquii Ruffled Tuxedo Shirt With Tie Neck

This white tuxedo-style shirt has a decorative ruffle down the front and a black velvet bow. It's made from cotton, so it feels great on and washes well. It looks great with pants or a skirt, working with a range of styles. 

Torrid

Torrid offers clothing in sizes 10 to 30. This inclusive-sizing brand was originally set up by Hot Topic as an edgier alternative to tired plus-size brands that catered to older clients or featured boring, frumpy garments. Although, 22 years since its inception, things have changed somewhat, it's still fashion-focused with an alternative twist. 

Torrid Mini Waffle Long-Sleeve Skater Dress

This simple-yet-stylish skater dress comes in black and dusk. It has a hook closure over the bust that you can close all the way up or leave slightly open. And — rejoice — it has pockets.

Torrid Ponte High-Neck Belt Jumpsuit

A lot of people think they can't pull off a jumpsuit. But honestly, it's one of the easiest ways to look instantly stylish and put together. This one has a gorgeous forest green finish and is made from a stretchy, wrinkle-resistant fabric. 

Torrid Betsey Johnson Tie Neck Chiffon Blouse

A re-creation of a vintage Betsey Johnson design, this button-down shirt is made from a gorgeous red plaid chiffon. It has a removable black necktie as an added eye-catching detail. 

Torrid Slim Fix Wireless Lattice Front One-Piece Swimsuit

If you've told yourself you need a swimsuit that covers you up, now's the time to rectify this. We like the criss-cross detailing around the chest and the crossed-back straps. It's a fairly simple one-piece, but it isn't designed to hide your body away. 

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

We all have one or know someone who does. The drawer. You know, the drawer that is the universal answer to “Where is that brown cable?” or “Have you seen the extra batteries?” It’s fine if you have such a drawer, and there is no shame in it. But don’t you think you should start the new year a bit more organized? 

There are plenty of tools and gadgets that can help get your clutter in order. You don’t have to "Marie Kondo" everything, but at least start by separating objects into different storage containers. For extra points, slap a label on it so that you know what’s inside. For more serious jobs, you’ll want to get a storage cabinet organizer, and we have some excellent suggestions for you.

New year, same you: Smart home upgrades because it’s time

Have you set some personal goals for this year? BestReviews has rounded up some of the best products to help you jumpstart the New Year and attain your goals.

Getting a handle on storage

A wing, a prayer and a good idea aren’t going to transform your clutter into a perfectly sorted living space magically. Sure, it helps if you know what you want (or must) do, but you’re going to need some tools and a game plan.

If you are feeling overwhelmed about the mammoth task staring you in the face, it’s usually a good idea to start with the small stuff, like your drawers. Here, drawer dividers are incredibly useful for sorting and organizing your items. They come in different sizes and materials, which makes them perfect for sorting everything from paper clips to power cords. With dividers, everything has a designated place, making it easy to find all your socks, USB drives or spare batteries.

Getting a few stackable bins is a great idea for larger items. You can use these for items that you don’t use or need often, such as extension cables, spare parts or seasonal pots and pans. Ensure to label each container so that you know what’s inside without having to open them. It’s even easier to see inside if they are made from a clear material.

If you take your storage needs seriously, it may be time to consider investing in a dedicated storage cabinet organizer. Think of it as a small wardrobe for your various items. With shelves and drawers of different sizes, it provides the perfect solution for storing everything from craft supplies to tool kits. Say goodbye to cluttered piles around the house, and yes, make that drawer a thing of the past.

Best storage cabinet organizers 

Sevenblue Under-Sink Organizers 

These organizers are the perfect method for decluttering the space under the kitchen sink. Each trolley has two pull-out shelves with generous space between each to store larger bottles, cleaning supplies and accessories. There are also several hooks for fabrics and a cup for smaller items.  

SongMics Cabinet Organizer Shelf 

For an elegant solution, these wooden and steel shelves easily stack on top of each other to maximize storage space. They are perfect as a sleek organizer in the kitchen, in the pantry or in a home office.

ClearSpace Plastic Pantry Organization and Storage Bins 

The trick to perfect organizing is to make things accessible. These clear storage bins are 10.5 inches long and 6 inches wide and have four dividers. They are great for separating different kinds of snacks, arts and crafts supplies or kitchen accessories.

Electronics and Tech Organizer Travel Case 

Eliminate the dreaded cable drawer by keeping all your spare tech neat and tidy in this sleek two-tier travel case. The case has two primary compartments for larger objects, but there are also two sleeves to keep smaller cables in their place.

Stock Your Home Extra-Tall Steel Baking Pan Organizer Rack 

Baking pans are often a hassle to store properly, as they are bulky and make a lot of noise when dropped. This simple solution is a wire rack that stands upright and has space for five baking trays. This makes them easily accessible, and since there isn’t a height restriction, they are perfect for any size trays.

3-Tier Stackable Water Bottle Organizer 

If you have plenty of water bottles, you probably have a dedicated space in a cupboard for all of them. But that means they are empty, and unless you have a pitcher in the fridge, the water that goes into them will be at room temperature. Well, this neat organizer fits perfectly in your fridge, so you can fill your bottles and leave them to chill in an orderly fashion.

Cabinet Caddy SNAP! Sliding Spice Rack Organizer 

It’s great to cook with spices, but if you aren’t careful, they often become the leading cause of an untidy cupboard. This ingenious organizer fits neatly into a kitchen cupboard and has plenty of space for a variety of bottles. When you need one, you simply slide out the side you want and turn it toward you.

Kutesna Interlocking Desk Drawer Organizer 

Office desk drawers have the tendency to become very cluttered over time, and before you know it, you have a huge mess on your hands. This 15-piece interlocking desk organizer has differently sized containers to fit all your desk accessories and home office supplies.

Simple Houseware Closet Organizer 

Straightening up your kitchen or home office is a step in the right direction, but at some point, you need to look in your clothing cupboards, too. These closet organizers are the perfect tools for that, as the set includes 24-, eight- and six-cell containers.

Akro-Mils Hardware and Craft Cabinet 

When organizing, don’t forget about the garage or the utility closet. This 24-drawer cabinet is the perfect way to keep smaller items, such as screws, arts and crafts supplies or even LEGO blocks sorted into neat rows. The cabinet is also stackable, so if you need more space, just place another one on top.

Worth checking out 

• Keep your makeup neat and tidy with this 32-piece organizer.
• These over-the-cabinet door shelves keep your trays and baking rolls in order.
• Are your pots shoved into a cupboard? Keep them organized with this eight-tier pots and pans organizer.
• If your computer cables need straightening out, keep them in check with these cable-management ties.
• These clear plastic pantry organizers will keep your snacks within arm’s reach.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Skin irritation of any kind can have a serious impact on your day-to-day life, and the skin on your scalp is naturally more sensitive than most. So when the itching is in this area, excessive scratching can break the skin and cause further irritation. It’s annoying to deal with and finding an itchy scalp remedy can be tricky. 

For most people, switching to a different shampoo is enough to reduce itching and other symptoms such as flaking. But understanding the cause means you can choose the best shampoo for itchy scalp problems with ingredients that will target the root cause.

What are symptoms of itchy scalp?

"Itchy scalp" is a catch-all term that describes a symptom rather than a condition. There are tons of potential medical, psychological and environmental reasons behind an itchy scalp. Feeling an urge to scratch your scalp from time to time is normal. But if your scalp is itchy constantly or leads to discomfort and irritation, it can severely hamper your quality of life.

Sometimes the urge to scratch is a standalone symptom of an itchy scalp. But more often than not, it’s also accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

• Dandruff
• Dry skin
• Redness
• Irritation
• Broken skin

What causes itchy scalp?

According to the Mayo Clinic, there are several itchy scalp causes, including:

• Dermatological conditions: Medical conditions that affect the skin, such as dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema dry out the skin. Your scalp's dryness as a result of these conditions can lead to itchiness and excessive scratching.
• Skin injury: If your itchy scalp is restricted to one area, the cause could be an insect bite, hives, parasites or burns. This type of itching typically goes away on its own.
• Underlying illness: Many internal diseases, such as kidney disease, diabetes or thyroid issues, can result in symptoms on the skin such as itching. Many psychiatric conditions can cause skin irritation and itching, too.
• Medication side effects: Some pain medications, particularly opioids, can cause itching on the skin and scalp.
• Environmental reasons: Brushing your skin against poisonous plants, chemicals in household cleaning products or ingredients in cosmetics can lead to an itchy scalp.

How to get rid of itchy scalp

As products such as shampoo, hair gel, mousse or hairspray build up on your scalp, they can block the hair follicles and cause irritation. Several home remedies for itchy scalp are worth trying. Washing your hair more regularly and avoiding heavy products on your scalp may be enough to solve the problem.

Another quick itchy scalp home remedy is switching to a different shampoo. Many common shampoo brands contain ingredients that dry out the skin such as sulfates and parabens. Try an itchy scalp shampoo that:

• Does not contain irritating ingredients such as sulfates.
• Contains naturally soothing ingredients such as aloe vera.
• Thoroughly cleanses and purifies the scalp.

If you’ve eliminated changes to your daily hair care routine and environmental causes, it might be time to see a doctor for itchy scalp treatment. By testing your blood and using other diagnostic methods, a doctor can identify underlying medical issues to find the best treatment for itchy scalp that works for you.

Best shampoo for itchy scalp treatments

Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

For some people, the best scalp shampoo is an anti-dandruff formula. This one is suitable for all hair types and is designed to be used alongside your regular shampoo and conditioner. When used twice weekly, the ketoconazole in the formula binds to your hair to reduce itching and flaking.

Nioxin System 1 Cleanser Shampoo

Primarily made to create thicker, fuller hair by promoting a healthy scalp, this can help with itching caused by damaged hair follicles. It thoroughly cleanses the scalp and contains ingredients that build stronger roots.

Derma-E Scalp Relief Shampoo

A doctor developed this shampoo to treat scaly, flaky and dry scalps using provitamin B5 and aloe vera. The formula is 100% vegan and free from harsh ingredients, such as sulfates, parabens and petrolatum.

Head and Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care Daily

Created to relieve dandruff, this shampoo reduces flaking and removes oil buildup on the scalp if you use it daily. It’s fast-acting and nourishes the scalp with a formula free of potentially harmful parabens to soothe the skin and relieve itching.

Botanic Hearth Tea Tree Shampoo and Conditioner Set

This tea tree shampoo and conditioner works for all hair types and people with a dry, itchy scalp. The tea tree, peppermint and lavender oils along with aloe vera hydrate and nourish the scalp to provide gentle relief from itching.

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal, Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo

If your itchy scalp is the result of product build-up, this exfoliating scrub will remove dead skin, oils and product residue. The charcoal ingredient deeply cleanses and lifts grime while the coconut oil hydrates and soothes.

Dermasolve Scalp Psoriasis Shampoo and Conditioner

This shampoo and conditioner set helps solve dandruff and intense scalp itching caused by psoriasis. The irritation-free formula helps moisturize the scalp and stop crusty buildup.

Cln Healthy Scalp Shampoo

If your scalp itching is caused by irritated hair follicles or dermatitis, this fragrance-free, hypoallergenic shampoo works quickly to thoroughly clean and soothe the scalp. You only need to use it one to three times a week to see results.

Selsun Blue Naturals Itchy Dry Scalp Shampoo

This daily anti-dandruff shampoo helps clean, moisturize and soothe itching on the scalp. It combines eight moisturizing ingredients such as vitamins B5 and E to prevent outbreaks of flaking and itching.

Yes to Tea Tree Scalp Relief Shampoo

This pH-balanced shampoo helps invigorate your scalp and relieve itching and dryness. It works by using a combination of tea tree oil, salicylic acid and sage oil to cleanse, moisturize and prevent itching and dandruff.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Few games have as loyal a following as Dungeons & Dragons. The tabletop game franchise has become so popular that it’s almost a separate culture and lifestyle in the gaming community. It's spawned a variety of video games, board games, an entire film series and tons of merchandise.

Called "D and D" for short, the game is all about adventuring with a group of friends in search of mystery and treasure. It generally consists of several players who choose a character based on the game’s premise and setting. The dungeon master acts as the story's director, driving forward what happens to the players and what kind of creatures they encounter.

It’s highly interactive and incredibly detailed, and games can take several weeks to complete. But you can’t simply start a Dungeons & Dragons campaign unless you have the necessary tools.

A short history of D and D

The modern version of D and D has its roots in the early days of pen-and-paper role playing dice games. The concept is largely the same, but dungeon masters didn’t have all the intricate tools they do today. Instead of having apps, rule books or other fancy equipment, everything was planned out and carefully noted using a pen and many reams of paper. Each player had to keep track of their character’s statistics, inventory and plot using this method.

The concept for this fantasy role playing game was launched in 1974 and designed by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson. Taking inspiration from miniature wargames, the pair devised a tabletop game that uses individual Dungeons & Dragons characters instead of military formations. For a more immersive experience, the game includes several accessories, such as small-scale monsters, dungeons and passages, and non-player characters to interact with.

At the beginning of the 2000s, D and D became so popular that an estimated 20 million people played at least one game, and it had over $1 billion in book and equipment sales worldwide. The current version of the Dungeons & Dragons players handbook is in the fifth edition, with revised editions of it, the "Monster Manual" and the "Dungeon Master's Guide" set to be available in 2024.

Everything you need to start the Dungeons and Dragons role-playing game

"The Game Master's Book of Traps, Puzzles and Dungeons"

This Dungeons & Dragons book is an essential addition to any dungeon master’s arsenal. It's packed full of challenging riddles, puzzles, spiked pits, and Rube Goldberg-style death traps to make any game session an epic adventure. It features 60 traps and 50 modular dungeon chambers and comes with top-down location maps and three one-shot adventures.

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Wizards of the Coast Dungeons & Dragons: Lords of Waterdeep Board Game

This strategy game is a great starting point for anybody who isn’t familiar with the D and D concept. It's set in Waterdeep, the crown jewel of the Forgotten Realms. Players are cast as Lords of Waterdeep vying for control of the mighty city; you recruit adventurers to go on quests, earn rewards, amass treasure, expand the city and more. This Dungeons & Dragons board game is best suited for two to five players.

Tidyboss D and D Starter Set Battle Game Mat

This Dungeons & Dragons starter set of game mats is perfect for dungeon masters who enjoy planning their own environments. They don’t crease as others do, and the four straightening clips let you flatten your mat instantly. The set includes six terrains that are easily marked out with dry-erase markers. It comes with multisided dice, an eraser and four markers.

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Wildspire Heroes, Animals and Troll Miniatures for D and D

Having a battle mat and dungeons is great, but there is nothing better for injecting visual representations into a game than Dungeons & Dragons miniatures. These 29 figurines are ready to be painted as you wish and include several 1-inch Dungeons & Dragons monsters, animals and props. The set comes with a digital file that includes 18 mini-quests, custom artwork and maps.

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Dungeons & Dragons Core Rulebooks Gift Set

This is perfect for anybody who wants to be a dungeon master, with special foil cover editions of the "Players Handbook," "Dungeon Master’s Guide" and "Monster Manual." It also comes with a dungeon master’s screen and slipcase for easy carrying.

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Spelljammer: Adventures in Space (D and D Campaign Collection)

This collection has everything a dungeon master needs to run a successful adventure. It includes the "Light of Xaryxis" adventure book, the "Astral Adventurer’s Guide" setting book, "Boo’s Astral Menagerie" book of monsters, a double-sided poster Dungeons & Dragons map of the Rock of Bral and a dungeon master’s screen.

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QMay D and D Dice Set 42 Pieces

No Dungeons & Dragons game is complete without a set of durable, high-quality dice. This 42-piece set consists of six double-color polyhedral Dungeons & Dragons dice sets with easy-to-read numbers on each surface. It comes with six drawstring bags with different patterns on each.

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The Deck of Many Things & The Deck of Many Fates

These 49 hand-illustrated cards make for the perfect addition to any tabletop adventure. The Deck of Many Things cards contain a game-changing effect, while the Deck of Many Fates has new powers, curses or opportunities. The cards come in a cardboard box.

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Upgraded Condition Rings

It can be challenging for players and the dungeon master to track who is wounded, cursed or exhausted. These 96 condition rings make that easy, as each player's status is color-coded and indicated with text. The rings are made from hard plastic and have a 1-inch-diameter hole in the center.

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Forged Dice Co. Draco Castle Foldable Dice Tray and Dice Tower

A great dungeon master has a great set of dice, and this is the perfect accessory to show you mean business. The 8-inch dice tower resembles an ancient castle with three levels inside, giving your polyhedral dice excellent rolls before landing in the tray. It's made of faux leather and felt and folds up into a neat square.

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Charlie Fripp 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.

Start your day with these BestReviews-approved coffee makers

How you start your day matters. You don't get a brew-over. That first cup of coffee needs to be perfect. As does every subsequent cup. That's why it is vital to have an exceptional coffee maker.

Fortunately, BestReviews was focused on testing coffee makers during the last month of the year. The lab evaluated many models, including the OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker and the De'Longhi TrueBrew Drip Coffee Maker to find which was the best. After careful consideration, the Testing Lab picked seven favorites.

Essential gadgets for making cooking easier in the new year

Here's what happens in the BestReviews Testing Lab

You may wonder what makes the BestReviews Testing Lab so special. It starts with individuals who research how products work and what makes exceptional products. Once a selection of items is handpicked, another team formulates a testing strategy. This strategy not only details a procedure for testing the key features in a real-world situation, it outlines a system so all models can be evaluated from a common baseline.

To test the products, the company employs real people. While some may have a particular expertise, others are new to the product. This lets the lab understand how different consumers view the same product. All testers take extensive notes, creating documents that are several pages long. They also photograph the products and take videos while using them. This comprehensive approach helps ensure no aspect is overlooked.

What happens with products after testing?

After a product has been thoroughly tested, BestReviews finds a home for it. This is done by donating the items to a local or national charity. It can also be done by dropping them off at a shelter or an institution that makes sure these gently used products get to people who truly need them.

Our 7 favorite coffee makers

Keurig K-Iced Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker

This model is touted by Keurig as being able to brew both hot and cold beverages. While the lab loved the roomy reservoir and the exceptional brewing quality, it warned that the ice-brewing feature still brews hot and allows the coffee to cool. It is not a low-and-slow brewing process.

De'Longhi TrueBrew Drip Coffee Maker

The De'Longhi TrueBrew is not an inexpensive option. Because of this, the Testing Lab concluded it is best for a larger facility, such as an office. BestReviews liked De'Longhi's versatility and consistent performance. The coffee maker is well-built and has all the options you could want.

Technivorm Moccamaster Coffee Maker

The BestReviews Testing Lab found this coffee maker to be very easy to use. It brewed great coffee consistently but didn't have enough features to warrant the regular price. For a better value, wait to buy this model when it is on sale.

Mr. Coffee, 5-Cup Mini Brew Switch Coffee Maker

The Testing Lab gave this model high marks in being an extremely affordable coffee maker that still brewed a delicious beverage. The flawless programmability and ease of use make this a top choice for individuals on a budget.

Cuisinart Brew Central 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker

Admittedly, this model can be a little overwhelming because it has a steep learning curve. However, once you get the hang of it, you will be amazed by all this machine can do. The Testing Lab had no complaints about the quality or flavor. 

OXO Brew 12-Cup Coffee Maker

If you want a sleek and modern coffee maker that looks and feels like it is worth every penny, this is a solid choice. The lab loved the showerhead water spout because it truly seemed to enhance the brewing process. Also, the coffee comes out hot and stays hot, which is always a bonus.

Keurig K-Compact Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

This Keurig was easily the best product for regular home use that the lab reviewed. It is affordable, has a reservoir, makes quality coffee and is easy to use and clean. If you want the best, this was the coffee maker the lab would choose.

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Allen Foster 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.

Maybe one day you’re feeling motivated and want to get some exercise with a brisk jog. Or maybe you’ll change your mind and do some much-needed relaxing on the couch instead. This type of perfectly relatable indecisiveness calls for a most versatile ensemble: workout clothes that are also great for lounging.

Marked by its comfort (and therefore lack of compression), athleisure works just as well at a barre class as on a lazy Sunday at home. And don’t think that means you have to compromise on style — our favorite workout/loungewear is just as cute as it is cozy. 

New year, same you: Affordable home workout equipment because you hate the gym

Our favorite places to shop for comfy athleisure clothes

Athleisure clothing is more popular than ever, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, which came with ample time spent at home and, therefore, spawned a new appreciation for ultra-comfortable clothing. There are lots of great places to buy cute workout clothes that are also excellent for lounging. These are a few of our favorites.

Universal Standard

The inclusive clothing retailer has a robust athleisure section. We love that every versatile piece comes in an excellent size selection. Nearly the entire line comes in the same colorways, so it's super easy to mix and match various pieces to create several great outfits. 

Vuori

Browse the pages of Vuori’s website, and practically everything you find will fall into both the activewear and the loungewear categories. Of all the California-based brand’s high-quality offerings, we’re partial to its DreamKnit and BlissBlend lines. The DreamKnit line, which includes the comfiest silky sweats dubbed the Performance Jogger, is crafted from a lightweight-but-durable supersoft fabric that feels amazing. Meanwhile, the new BlissBlend line of leggings and sports bras is made from a high-stretch fabric with a luxuriously airy feel. 

Abercrombie & Fitch

In case you missed it, the newly rebranded Abercrombie & Fitch is officially cool again. Among our favorite things to shop from the more inclusive brand is its activewear under the YPB label. (By the way, that stands for Your Personal Best, a message we can certainly stand behind.) The coziest offerings include soft and stretchy leggings and a relaxed-fit, quick-dry, long-sleeve T-shirt. 

Colorfulkoala

These budget-friendly yoga pants, which are available on Amazon, are among our favorites for their super-comfy matte finish that’s reminiscent of pricier Lululemon styles. Though they’ll stay securely put through even the most intense workout class, they can be worn just as well around the house with an oversized sweater and slippers. There are tons of fun patterns and colors to choose from, as well as iterations with and without pockets. 

Quince

Though best known for its $50 Mongolian cashmere sweater, this direct-to-consumer brand also offers an impeccable selection of activewear. Though motion-ready, everything is highly comfortable, so you don’t have to work out if you don’t want to. 

Halara

This brand specializes in all kinds of comfortable clothing and its Cloudful Fabric line feels exactly the way it sounds: heavenly. We especially love the cross-waist leggings, which have a flattering fit, but are designed to stay put despite activity. They come in a ton of fun colors in two different lengths. 

Best athleisure clothes to shop 

Universal Standard Mia Movement Tee

This versatile top makes a great workout item but can be paired just as well with your favorite pair of jeans (which we sincerely hope are also your comfiest pair). The cotton fabric is light and breathable, as well as sweat-wicking and antimicrobial. 

Vuori BlissBlend Leggings

With a lightweight yet supportive fabric, Vuori’s newest leggings are breathable and supremely soft. The performance-stretch material is designed to stay put while you move, and the high waistband is comfortable and flattering. We especially love that it comes in three length options and pairs with the Vuori BlissBlend Bra to make the perfect ensemble. 

Vuori Performance Jogger

These dreamy, supersoft bottoms are crafted from a silky fabric that’s equally great for jogging and lounging. They have a tapered leg with an above-the-ankle cuff and a drawstring waist. They come in a bunch of gorgeous hues, as well as a long-length option. 

Abercrombie YPB powerSOFT Long-Sleeve Easy Tee

This supremely comfortable top is the perfect length to partner with a pair of leggings and wear to a winter workout class. Don’t worry if you sweat. The quick-dry fabric can handle it without issue. However, if a Netflix marathon is on the agenda instead, you’ll be equally impressed with the top’s roomy and perfectly drapey fit. 

Abercrombie YPB studioSOFT 7/8-Length Legging

We love a legging that’s available in multiple length options to help everyone get the perfect fit. This delightfully comfy, lightweight pair has a ton of stretch. If you wear them to the gym, you’ll appreciate the convenient card pocket. If you wear them to lounge, you’ll love the supersoft feel of the fabric.

Colorfulkoala High-Waisted Yoga Pants

It doesn’t matter if you wear these stretchy bottoms to a yoga class or to your couch — you’re bound to be impressed by the buttery-soft fabric. Even better, there are over 20 colors and patterns to choose from, and since the price tag is so agreeable, you can load up with a bunch. 

Quince Ultra-Soft Fitted Long-Sleeve Top

With a close-but-not-constricting fit, this long-sleeve top is an excellent choice for a winter workout class or a work-from-home day. We love the thumbholes, which make it great for layering and add some sporty flair. 

Quince Ultra-Form High-Rise Flared Pant

These flared yoga pants have a secure high-rise fit. They’re crafted from a moisture-wicking, antimicrobial fabric that’s perfectly suitable to sweat in — or not! The flared bottoms add a fun retro-inspired look to these versatile pants.

Halara Everyday Cloudful Fabric 3.0 Crossover Pocket Plain Leggings

These leggings are perfect for yoga or lounging, and the flattering crossover waist makes them especially cute to wear with a cropped top. The four-way stretch fabric offers comfort and durability, and the side pockets are convenient for when you’re on the go. 

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Tea is not only relaxing, some studies suggest it can help you live a longer life. To encourage yourself to drink more, it helps to elevate the ritual, so the entire process, from brewing to sipping, is beneficial. Besides choosing the best loose leaf teas, to have the best experience, you want to use a gooseneck kettle for precision brewing. We rounded up the best gooseneck kettle picks with tips on brewing a quality cup of tea. Each model is made of quality stainless steel, and they're all excellent gifts for tea lovers.

How to brew better tea

Even though there are primarily only two ingredients required when brewing tea (hot water and tea leaves), there is a wide assortment of tools, appliances and devices that you can use to get the best results. These items include tea kettles, tea infusers, tea scoops, tea strainers and more.

If you want a better brew, an electric gooseneck kettle is essential. These electric kettles are versatile tools that can be used for coffee as well as tea. It has a reservoir to hold and heat your water and a long thin spout for precision pours. Since different types of teas are best brewed at different temperatures, it is essential to have precision when it comes to heating. While a stovetop kettle is adequate, more affordable and long-lasting, it is best to get an electric tea kettle with temperature control. This option ensures you will always brew tea at the perfect temperature.

What is the purpose of the gooseneck?

The long thin gooseneck spout gives you complete control over where you pour and how fast you pour. The precision of the pour spout is important for extracting the most robust flavor from your leaves.

Best gooseneck kettle picks

KitchenAid Precision Gooseneck Digital Kettle

If you are looking for a top-of-the-line model, this gooseneck electric kettle has settings in 1-degree increments from 140 to 212 degrees. The stainless steel kettle has an on-lid thermometer to ensure you are always within your preferred brewing range.

Cuisinart Digital Gooseneck Kettle

The Cuisinart gooseneck kettle has a digital real-time temperature display that ranges from 140 to 212 degrees. The base has touchpad controls and a 30-minute stay-warm feature.

Cosori Original Gooseneck Electric Kettle with Bonus Coasters

Cosori designed this kettle for tea drinkers. It features one-touch presets for white, green, oolong and black tea. The precision temperature control holds the water within 5 degrees (plus or minus) of the setting and can keep your water warm for up to an hour.

Cosori Smart Gooseneck Kettle

The Cosori smart gooseneck kettle is for people who like the convenience of a smart device. It is similar to the original Cosori gooseneck electric kettle in that it has 1-degree temperature increments, four presets (and baby formula mode), a start heating function and a temperature hold function. However, you can operate this model remotely by using an app on your smartphone.

London Sip Stainless Steel Gooseneck Kettle

If you prefer the simplicity and longevity of a stovetop tea kettle, this durable model has a built-in color-coded thermometer and is safe for up to 250 degrees.

Hamilton Beach 5-Cup Stainless Steel Cord-Free Electric Gooseneck Kettle

This fast-boiling option allows you to make quick cups of tea or coffee without fear. The boil-dry auto shut-off and indicator light protect against scorching. It has a cord-free kettle, which means you can lift the unit off the base and serve anywhere.

Bodum Gooseneck 27-Ounce Electric Water Kettle

If budget is your primary concern, this Bodum gooseneck kettle is an affordable option that delivers quality at a low price to maximize value. This kettle features an ergonomic design with a sustainable cork cover on the handle and knob to protect your hand from heat.

Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Gooseneck Kettle

This high-end Fellow Stagg kettle has a sleek, modern aesthetic that looks great on the kitchen counter. It has an LCD screen for setting your desired temperature and shows temperature levels in real-time. The Brew Stopwatch feature lets you time extraction and keeps the water hot for up to 60 minutes. This luxe tea kettle comes in six attractive finishes and color schemes.

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Allen Foster 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.

A common New Year's resolution is some form of “I’m going to be healthier” with exercising being right at the top. Because of that, as the well-worn joke goes, the busiest time of year at any gym is the beginning of the year. And what worse time to go anywhere than the busiest time? Especially if you can stay home and get all the same benefits with little to no investment.

So instead of signing up for a gym membership and fighting those crowds, take a look at some workout ideas and equipment you can use in the comfort of your own home.

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Equipment-free exercises

The best things in life are free, and that includes exercises. After all, our ancestors didn’t have gyms, they just had, well, life. These are the best ways to establish a routine. Once you’ve got that routine established and you know you’ll keep exercising, you can start considering spending some money on some gear.

Basic exercises 

These are the kinds of things you probably did in gym class back in the day. It includes push-ups, sit-ups and all kinds of leg exercises, all of which use your body weight to make you sweat.

Walking and running

The go-to way to start endurance training is simply to start testing your endurance. Start with just walking. Then start running for a few seconds or minutes at a time, whatever your body can handle without strain. Then start working your way up to running for your entire route.

Combine the two

Resting is important while exercising, so try doing your basics one day, then walking and running the next. Give yourself a day or two off throughout the week, and you’ve got yourself a gym-free exercise routine to push you toward healthy living.

Low-cost equipment exercises 

Once you’ve established a solid routine, you can start looking at low-cost gear to open up your exercise opportunities. Here are some common ones.

Dumbbells 

An all-time classic, dumbbells are your path to upper-body excellence. There are many kinds of dumbbells though, with some being more affordable than others. To start, go with basic, single-weight dumbbells. If you like what they enable you to do, you can upgrade to complete sets or adjustable ones.

Resistance gear 

Resistance gear comes in a few forms, but the most common are just simple bands. Think of them a little like dumbbells for your legs, since they’re commonly used to make leg exercises a little harder.

Jump ropes

Yes, those jump ropes, the ones you played with as a kid. Not so fun when you’re doing it for your health, huh? Turns out, they’re excellent and low-cost ways to train your endurance and partially your legs.

High-cost equipment exercises

Once your routine has become gospel, you can consider spending some bigger bucks on larger equipment. To reiterate, don’t consider this category unless you’ve gotten used to working out. Otherwise, you risk dropping a few hundred dollars on a high-end treadmill that you’ll use for two weeks and then sell at a steep loss later.

Treadmill

Treadmills are among the most common at-home exercise equipment for several reasons. They’re intuitive to use. They don’t take up too much space. Entry-level versions are more affordable. But they still cost a chunk of change and you can always get the same exercise for free by going outside. If, however, you get used to daily runs and want to make sure you won’t miss some days because of foul weather, go ahead and grab one.

Rowing machine 

Rowing machines have been growing in popularity recently as an alternative to treadmills, mostly because rowing machines are much easier on your joints than running on a treadmill. They do, however, need more space, including to the sides, as your arms will need to stretch out during the exercise motion.

Other gear

There’s a wealth of high-cost, at-home exercise equipment from massive weight rigs to multi-weight collections of dumbbells to stair steppers. These are only truly viable if you have a spacious room in your home dedicated to being a gym. If your exercise journey brings you here, go ahead and splurge.

Best affordable home workout equipment

Signature Fitness Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells

You can grab these starter dumbbells as a single pair of matching weights, and if you like them, you can also grab them as a full set in multiple weights combined with a stand. Weights start at 5 pounds and go up to 50.

TechStone  Resistance Bands

This set of five bands gives you the chance to start small and work up to harder exercises. These are also excellent for the frequent traveler, as they take up little space and you can use them in hotels with no gyms.

Wod Nation Adjustable Speed Jump Rope

This jump rope is built to go fast to push you to your best fitness level possible. It’s also slightly customizable so you can cut the length with a wire cutter to best fit your height. It comes in nine colors.

Best high-cost home workout equipment

NordicTrack T Series

NordicTrack is among the highest-end treadmill makers, making it perfect for the most committed health enthusiasts. It comes with a 30-day trial to its iFit program that lets you stream live or prerecorded workouts to the screen on its control face. 

Hydrow Rowing Machine

This top-dollar rowing machine uses electromagnetic drag to mimic the way it feels to row through actual water. It’s also got a large 22-inch screen that, with a membership, lets you access workouts or pull up footage of real places to pretend you’re rowing there.

Best fitness trackers

Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch

This high-end smartwatch is built for those who make fitness a way of life. You can even design your own workouts to push yourself. It’s also got a massive seven-day battery life so you can go on excursions without worrying about it dying.

Fitbit Charge 5

The Fitbit Charge 5 is a better introduction to fitness trackers for those looking to get a feel for how they fit into their fitness routines. It can track your sleep, heart rate, steps, distance traveled and more.

Best exercise shoes

Saucony Cohesion 10 Running Shoes

These classic running shoes are a good low-cost option for those just starting down the path of endurance and fitness. They come in nine colors, too, so you can match your outfit.

Brooks Run USA Ghost 15 Running Shoes

Why not show a little patriotic pride while out on your runs? Don’t worry, these are also excellent shoes in general thanks to high breathability and plenty of cushioning to help running on hard surfaces feel less harsh.

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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 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Think of the ideal chicken wing. What comes to mind? Perhaps you imagine a savory golden brown treat that’s juicy, flavorful and crisp. A meaty surprise encased by a thin and tasty crunch.

As irresistible as that sounds, the perfect balance of crisp and juicy can be hard to achieve. The outside of the wing could burn before the inside fully cooks. Or the inside might dry out while you’re waiting for the outside to crisp.

BestReviews has hands-on experience with dozens of air fryers, and we’ve experimented with a wide variety of recipes to discover the best way to prepare air fryer chicken wings. Read our steps and tips to get the job done right.

Step 1: Wing prep

Before you cook chicken wings, for best results, spend some time preparing them. Your first step is to separate the wings into drums and flats. This makes it easier to heat them evenly.

You also need to make sure they’re fully defrosted and completely dry. If you find any moisture on your wings, pat them dry. Otherwise, they won't crisp as expected.

To avoid using too much oil, measure one tablespoon of olive oil in a small ball. Gently rub it into the chicken skin, covering all areas. You want a thorough yet light oil coating. 

Now it’s time to add flavor with a mix of spices. We used a teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and salt mixed with a half teaspoon of pepper. Rub the seasoning into the skin the same way you applied the oil.

Step 2: Preheat air fryer

The recipe we used requires the air fryer to be set to 400 degrees. From the extensive testing we performed across a variety of brands and models, we learned that different air fryer manufacturers handle preheating in different ways. For example, some models automate the process. You set the temperature and cook time, and the unit automatically adds preheat time before the cooking countdown begins. 

The important thing to remember with these models is not to add the food until the machine alerts you that it has reached the desired temperature. Only then should you add the food.

With other models, it’s up to the individual to preheat the air fryer manually. You must set the temperature and turn the air fryer on before adding the food. The process is similar to preheating a traditional oven. When the air fryer reaches the desired temperature (or time), add food and begin cooking.

Smaller models do not always require a preheat time. Consult your owner's manual to learn which approach is recommended for your air fryer.

Step 3: Cooking wings

Remember that not all air fryers are the same. Some are large and some are small. Some have a powerful fan to spread heat quickly and evenly. Some leak a little heat. These minor differences add up and can impact cooking time. 

The recipe BestReviews used calls for cooking the wings for 18 minutes at 400 degrees. To promote even cooking, we flipped the wings halfway through.

Depending on the model used, after 18 minutes, we found the chicken wings could be perfect, undercooked or burnt. Our takeaway: Monitor the process until you learn how your air fryer works. If your air fryer has a window, turn on the light and peek in. If it doesn't, you will need to open the drawer and check the progress.

Wings are done

From start to finish, this entire process takes less than 30 minutes. Here's a recap:

• Prepare the wings with oil and seasoning.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees.
• Set the timer for at least 18 minutes.
• Check on the cooking process to make sure you don't undercook or overcook your wings.

Besides these four simple steps, remember that the chicken wings should be placed in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If possible, cook wings that are similar in size to one another. (Larger food takes longer to cook.) Arrange them so they don’t touch each other or the sides of the basket. Finally, use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature of the wings reaches 165 degrees.

FAQ

Q. Should I put oil on chicken wings before air frying them?

A. While it’s not necessary to use oil for air frying, a little oil does produce better, crispier results. A light rub or spray of cooking oil is all you need for air frying. 

Q. How can I prevent my wings from drying out?

A. If you’re having trouble with the meat drying out when air frying, a technique you might try is cooking at two different temperatures. 

Begin by cooking the chicken wings at 360 degrees for 24 minutes. To finish, crank the heat up to 390 degrees (or higher), and only cook them until the outsides are crisp.

Q. My wings aren’t crispy. Why?

A. The most common reason why chicken wings don’t crisp in an air fryer is moisture. Water prevents crisping. So, pat your wings dry before placing them inside. Arrange them so they aren't touching each other or the sides of the basket. This gives you the best chance of producing a crispy exterior.

Q. How does baking chicken wings compare to air frying them?

A. Cooking chicken wings in an oven can produce similar results to air frying. The main difference is temperature and time. Whereas an air fryer can cook wings in about 20 minutes at 400 degrees, it took us 40 minutes at 425 degrees to produce similar results in an oven.

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Allen Foster 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.

There are plenty of gadgets that can help you live an easier life, but few are as exciting as smart devices that take the hassle out of mundane actions. For example, how many times did you want to turn on the kitchen faucet, but your hands are covered in dough? Well, there is a smart faucet that activates with your voice. 

But if the thought of crawling under the sink and spending hundreds of dollars hiring a plumber makes you nervous, there are better solutions. Not all smart gadgets are difficult or laborious to install or set up. If that’s your only stumbling block, here are some tech toys to transform your home. 

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Turn your regular house into a smart home

Of course, there are highly sophisticated gadgets that make your life easier, but more often than not, you’ll need more than a hammer and screwdriver to install them. However, if you are just starting your smart home journey, there is some good news.

Some of the most helpful gadgets can be used straight out of the box. Sure, you’d need to connect them to your Wi-Fi and pair them with a mobile phone, but most people know how to do that already. 

For example, a smart lightbulb that has a built-in security camera simply screws into an existing light socket. There is no need for drilling or working with electrical cables, as everything is already in place. Just pair it with your phone and you are ready.

The same goes for probably the most basic of smart home gadgets: wall sockets. These tiny gadgets are amazing and super easy to install. If you want to control floor lamps, heaters or even a coffee maker, plug them into the socket, use the app to pair them with your Wi-Fi, and your home is now much smarter! 

Best smart home upgrades

Kasa Smart Plug Mini

A great way to start your smart home journey is with some wall plugs. These adapters turn any gadget with a mechanical switch into a smart device. You simply connect the plug to your home’s Wi-Fi network and control the flow of electricity through a mobile app. It is compatible with Apple’s HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Home. 

Amazon Basics Smart LED Lightbulb

You don’t need to walk over to the room’s light switch to turn it on or off if you have these smart bulbs. Similar to the wall plugs, all you have to do is connect them to your home’s Wi-Fi and control them through a mobile app. The LED technology is sufficiently bright, and you can switch between four colors.

Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) With Clock

No smart home is complete without a central gadget to keep everything together. Amazon’s Echo Dot is an excellent starting point as you use your voice to get daily updates, check the weather, control other smart gadgets and play music wirelessly. It doesn’t have a display, but there is a clock on the front.

Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen)

If you prefer a Google product with a display, the company’s Nest Hub is a good choice. It has a 7-inch display, which lets you watch YouTube videos, stream music, and control other smart devices. When paired with security cameras, you can see who is at your front door at a glance. 

LaView 4MP Bulb Security Camera

If you have a large backyard or live on a busy street, you might be thinking of ways to keep an eye on things. Well, that is where a smart security camera makes your life a lot easier. By connecting it to your Wi-Fi, you use your mobile phone or smart display (such as the Google Nest Hub) to see in real-time what’s going on. This camera screws into a lightbulb socket, can rotate 360 degrees and has a 2K camera sensor. 

Ring Video Doorbell

A smart security camera is great, but sometimes you want to know who is at your front door and talk to them if you have to. That’s where Ring’s amazing video doorbell comes in. It has a 1080p video camera and links to your other smart devices. When the door rings, you can quickly see who it is. It also features a motion sensor and crisp night vision.

Amazon Smart Thermostat

Smart gadgets can often help you save money, such as this thermostat from Amazon. When paired with Alexa, the virtual assistant programs your air conditioning for you and keeps the temperature at comfortable levels. It has a large display to easily see the current settings and can be installed in less than 30 minutes.

Blink Mini

Checking what’s going on outside your house is great for security, but what about inside? The Blink Mini is the perfect tool for the job, as it is small enough to fit on almost any surface, cupboard or shelf. The wired camera has a 1080p sensor, two-way audio and motion detection, and streams visuals directly to your phone over Wi-Fi. 

USB Outlet Extender

With more smart gadgets comes the need for more wall sockets. This great gadget plugs into one wall socket and gives you three USB ports, one USB-C port and five additional wall outlets. That should definitely be more than enough to keep your gadgets powered. 

Govee Smart Electric Space Heater

Use technology to keep warm this winter, as this smart space heater has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to pair with your mobile phone. Through a dedicated app, you control the temperature, the oscillation frequency and the intensity of the blowing air. It is compatible with virtual assistants, such as Alexa and Google.

Worth checking out 

• Turn any wall socket into a Wi-Fi plug with these GHome Mini Smart Plugs.
• Keep track of your belongings with Apple’s AirTags.
• If you want to turn your regular TV into a smart TV, Amazon’s Fire Stick is an excellent option.
• With this wireless meat thermometer, your mobile phone will alert you when it is done just the way you like it.
• Keep your loved ones safe from fires with these X-Sense Smart Smoke Detectors.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

Daily planners are an interesting item. Many people feel they don’t need them, that they have the organization or memory skills to handle their tasks and obligations. However, once you’ve tried using one and experienced the lucidity of your clearly written information, not to mention the extra brain space you get from not having to hold on to all that information, it’s hard not to keep using them. We rounded up the best planners of 2024 — these daily, monthly and weekly planners will help you stay focused and organized, even on a busy schedule.

2024 planner types

There are several types of planners, with some of the most common including:

• General planners are the baseline that other planner types spring from. They’re the most basic, usually only having weekly and monthly breakdowns with some blank pages thrown in for good measure.
• Academic planners are meant for students. Besides the basic time breakdowns, they usually have extra spaces for information such as your class schedule or your current grades and grade goals. They even typically run August to July, rather than the usual January to December.
• Professional planners are meant for, well, working professionals. They usually have different breakdowns of time, such as having extra-large day spaces or even hourly lines to track meetings and deadlines. There might be extra spaces for things like setting goals for your job.
• Personal development planners are unlike any other type of planner. They’re essentially a cross between a planner and a journal, having spaces to write and track goals or to reflect on each day of the week. If you’re trying to improve your life, personal planners are strongly worth considering.
• Pocket planners are miniature general planners, though due to their itty-bitty size, you can’t put much information in them. However, they’re perfect for making plans on the go, noting those plans, and then transferring them to your main planner.

Time span

Time span in planners means two things: when it starts, and how long it goes for:

• Start date: Most planners start in January though some, namely academic planners but also others, can start in the middle of the year. The months of June, July and August are common in that case. There are also planners that have no dates at all, so you can start whenever you’d like and still get to use every contained day.
• Length: Most planners run for 12 months. There are also some that run for only six months, or extra-long ones that go for 18 months. Then there’s the occasional planner that runs for an odd number of months or weeks.

Binding

Planners typically have one of two types of bindings: spiral or perfect:

• Spiral-bound planners are usually your best option as they can be easily flopped open without needing weights.
• Perfect-bound planners, meaning the pages are attached to the spine with adhesive, look a little cleaner. Consider one if you’re concerned about the feng shui of your desk.

Cover

Most planners are softcovers, meaning they can easily flop or bend as they’re stuffed inside a backpack or briefcase. Others have hardcovers to better handle rough treatment throughout the year, though it can make them a little harder to pack up.

Design

You might think the design of your planner is unimportant. If so, you’d be wrong. Think about how long you’ll be staring at it when you’re shopping instead of grabbing the first one you see. And if you don’t care to shop around, at the very least, consider grabbing one that’s your favorite color.

Cost

The most basic or smallest planners typically cost $5 to $10. More complex planners can cost up to $20. The biggest and best can cost up to $50.

Best general planners for 2024

Blue Sky 2024 Weekly and Monthly Planner

This Blue Sky planner includes weekly and monthly breakdowns for 2024, plus spaces for reference notes, contacts and general blank pages for scribbles and whatnot. It measures 5 by 8 inches and has space for the end of 2023.

Frasukis 2024 Weekly and Monthly Planner

This planner is all about staying on top of things while having something beautiful to sit on your desk. It’s just a benefit that it has space for all your plans and thick paper that can withstand being thumbed through for a year.

Best academic planners for 2024

Artfan 2024 Weekly Monthly Planner

This academic planner bucks the trend of starting in July by starting in January 2024. It has a ribbon bookmark so there’s no need to thumb.

Rileys and Co. 2023-2024 Academic Weekly Planner

This student planner does start in July, but it started this July 2023. It extends to December 2024 and comes in 8-by-6 inches or 8.5-by-11 inches.

Best professional planners of 2024

At-a-Glance 2024 Weekly Planner

This professional planner will help you stay on track at work. It lays completely flat thanks to its twin-wire binding, plus the cover is flexible to avoid creases. Each day has one line for every 15 minutes starting at 7 a.m. and ending at 9 p.m.

Inamio 2024 Weekly and Monthly Appointment Book

This daily planner features one line for every 30 minutes of each day starting at 7 a.m. and ending at 9 p.m. It comes in 6.5-by-8.5 inches or 11-by-8.5 inches.

Best personal-development planners for 2024

Amy Knapp's The Very Busy Planner 2024

This planner started in August 2023, but extends to December 2024. The planner offers a host of extras, such as space for monthly goals and motivational quotes, and it even comes with 250 stickers.

Freedom Mastery 5-Minute Guided Daily Gratitude Journal 

This is the perfect planner for recording daily gratitude for all aspects of your life. It's undated, meaning you can start it whenever you like. It only takes five minutes a day to engage in gratitude journaling.

Best pocket planners of 2024

BookFactory 2024 Weekly Pocket Calendar

This pocket planner measures 3.5 by 6 inches and each page has space for three days. The front of it has a list of all the major and many minor holidays, plus a 2024 yearly overview.

Maalbok 2024 Pocket Planner/Calendar

This planner measures 3.8-by-6.3 inches and has a monthly calendar breakdown, plus daily breakdowns with three days to a page. It runs from January 2024 to December 2024.

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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.

Despite wooden cutting boards being the overwhelming favorite of professionals, such as butchers, they still get a bad rap. Some people claim that because wood is porous and can absorb liquid, it's unsafe to cut meat on it. So, is plastic the best cutting board material?

Both wooden and plastic cutting boards can be and are safe for any kind of food, with wood having a slight lead in terms of food safety and knife wear prevention. We rounded up top picks for the best cutting boards, including custom cutting boards that make great gifts for cooks, bakers and foodies.

The ultimate gift guide for foodies

Why is a clean cutting board important?

Cross-contamination is the transfer of harmful bacteria from one object to another. Cutting raw chicken and then slicing fresh produce on the unwashed board is the perfect example of cross-contamination. This can happen between any two foods that might have germs present. Even lettuce, a significant source of E. coli infections, can lead to cross-contamination when not properly washed.

There are peer-reviewed studies on the bacterial retention and decontamination of both materials. The conclusion is simple. Whether your cutting boards are plastic or wooden, the most crucial step is thoroughly washing and drying them before switching foods. If you're careful, both materials are safe.

Why are plastic cutting boards worth it?

Plastic equipment is lightweight, space-efficient and easy to clean. It's also durable and affordable. A plastic cutting board can withstand vigorous hand washing, high-temperature machine washing and chemical sterilization. That's one of two main reasons you'll find high-volume kitchens equipped with plastic cutting boards.

Plastic also allows for color coding. Typically, red cutting boards are for red meat, tan for fish, green for fruits and vegetables, blue for cooked food and white for dairy. These sometimes vary between states and cooking establishments. While restaurants use them, most home cooks don't opt to buy cutting boards in each color. That's OK as long as you're thorough with cleaning and sanitizing.

Are plastic cutting boards safe for knives?

The plastic cutting boards are made from is soft enough that it won't dull knives and other kitchen tools too quickly. It's not quite as gentle on an edge as some types of wood cutting boards, but it's suitable for some of the fanciest knives in the world.

Why are wooden cutting boards safe?

The main worry about wood cutting board safety is that it can absorb bacteria and lead to cross-contamination even after it's washed with dish soap and water. These fears are unfounded. Wood's porous nature does allow it to absorb some bacteria. However, instead of letting that bacteria flourish, it traps and dries out the bacteria, leaving it unable to contaminate food.

Another reason wood can be better than plastic is its ability to repair itself. Once there's a large gauge or groove on the surface of a plastic board, it's there to stay. This can trap bacteria between washings.

Wood, on the other hand, tends to repair gauges and grooves as time goes on. A gentle hand washing rehydrates the wood slightly, allowing it to return to its original shape and greatly minimizing the risk of trapped bacteria.

Wooden cutting boards are great for knives

A wood cutting board is the best choice for high-end chef's knives. End grain cutting boards offer a high level of softness that minimizes the regular dulling of a knife blade. With that said, all cutting gradually dulls a knife. High-quality wood simply slows that process.

What else to look for in a cutting board

Once you've decided between a wood cutting board and a plastic cutting board, it's time to think about other important features. These are some factors you should consider when picking a cutting board.

• Size: There are a range of cutting board sizes, from compact versions measuring around 5 inches by 10 inches to extra-large ones that measure about 20 inches by 30 inches. The smallest are great for little tasks, like chopping an onion or a few cloves of garlic, but can be frustratingly small when cooking for a crowd. The largest are great for commercial kitchens but impractical for home use. Most buyers will want something in between the two extremes.
• Shape: Although rectangular cutting boards are most popular, you can also buy round cutting boards. A round cutting board isn't necessarily the most practical, but some people like how they look. Also, a wooden round cutting board can double as a trivet to protect counters from hot pots.
• Groove: Some boards have grooves around the outside to catch juices from fruits, meat or other produce that lets out liquid when you chop it. This can help avoid annoying messes.
• Reversibility: With reversible cutting boards, you have two usable sides. Sometimes, one side is grooved and one side is flat, but you can also find double-sided options with two flat or two grooved sides.

Best wood cutting boards

TeakHaus Edge Grain Carving Board

The high-quality wood and end-grain construction make it a fine choice for the most demanding home chefs. This teak cutting board comes with or without a juice groove. There's also a smaller version if the large wood cutting board doesn't quite fit on your countertops.

Shumaru Teak Wood Cutting Board

This teak model is safe for high-end blades and comes in six sizes to fit your kitchen perfectly. The large wooden cutting board is reversible with a groove to catch juices.

Eco Home Wood Cutting Board

It has convenient handles on the sides, nonslip rubber feet and an optional juice groove that keeps meat juices off your counter. This option is 2 inches thick, meaning it's very stable. You can choose from a maple cutting board, cherry cutting board or hardwood cutting board.

John Boos Block Chop-N-Slice

This affordable Boos Block cutting board comes from one of the top brands. You can choose from six sizes with this butcher's block, the smallest measuring 5 inches by 10 inches and the largest measuring 15 inches by 20 inches.

Sonder Los Angeles Large Wood Cutting Board

This beautiful walnut cutting board has a gorgeous dark finish and looks as good as it performs. It's generously sized, measuring 13 inches by 17 inches, with a groove around the outside to catch juices.

Ayiaren Acacia Wood Cutting Board With Handle

This round cutting board has a built-in loop for hanging on the wall. Crafted from acacia wood, it's easy to grasp with the handle and can also be used for serving pizza, as a charcuterie board and more. It measures 16 by 12 inches.

Best plastic cutting boards

Thirteen Chefs Plastic Cutting Board

This no-nonsense cutting board is simple to sanitize and comes in six colors for the careful cook. It's a large cutting board, with the smallest measuring 12 by 18 inches and the largest measuring 18 by 30 inches.

OXO Good Grips Cutting Board Set

If you typically cook for only a few people at a time, these small- and medium-sized options are perfect. Each OXO cutting board is double-sided with nonporous surfaces that resist staining and odors.

Aichoof Cutting Board Set of Four

This highly economical colored cutting board set comes with nonslip feet and a vertical storage stand for safety and convenience. Each is labeled with a different produce type, so it's easier to stay safe and avoid cross-contamination.

KitchenAid Classic

This cutting board has three sizes to choose from, and none cost very much. They're nonslip with a groove to catch liquids, plus they're dishwasher-safe for easier cleanup once you're done cooking.

Winco Plastic Cutting Boards

These are the same cutting boards found in professional kitchens across the country. You can buy them individually or in packs containing several boards of different colors, which is helpful to avoid cross-contamination.

Cutting board FAQ

Are bamboo cutting boards a good idea?

A. While they're lightweight and affordable, it's best to avoid a bamboo cutting board. It's significantly harder than other wood and even has mild antibacterial properties. At first glance, that makes bamboo look like an attractive material. However, it's not any more hygienic in practice, and its hardness wears down a knife edge much faster than traditional wood cutting boards.

Why should you never use glass cutting boards?

A. Glass wears down a knife edge incredibly quickly, no matter what metal the knife is made from. It's also hard to keep wet foods from sliding around a glass cutting surface. This makes precision cutting difficult and even dangerous. Glass cutting boards should be avoided at all costs.

Should you use flexible plastic cutting boards?

A. While they are convenient, lightweight and affordable, they don't offer the cushion of a large piece of plastic. They're also hard to clean. They work but are best avoided in favor of rigid plastic or wood boards.

Are wooden cutting board countertops worth it?

A. Rarely. They tend to be expensive and difficult to sanitize. They are also hard to replace if damaged. Cutting board countertops can be safe and effective with proper care, but most homeowners shouldn't waste their money.

How big should a cutting board be?

A. The best size is the biggest one that fits on your kitchen counter. Your cutting board should be at least as tall as your biggest knife is long. Using one that's too small makes it difficult to make consistent, precise cuts.

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Chris Thomas 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.

From remote-controlled LEDs to lasers, Christmas decorations now offer more high-tech features than ever — but has your Christmas storage kept up with the times? If you're tired of discovering broken ornaments or struggling to store an unwieldy artificial tree, maybe it's time to upgrade your Christmas storage. Along with the best ornament storage, Grandin Road has everything you need to store wreaths, wrapping paper and even the Christmas tree itself.

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How to store Christmas decorations

From ornaments to wreaths, Christmas involves plenty of fragile decorations that can be challenging to store. Larger items, such as artificial trees, present their own storage challenges. Choosing specially designed storage can help protect your treasured decorations and keep them in excellent shape year after year.

As you shop for Christmas storage, be sure to keep in mind the environment of your storage area. For example, if you need to haul boxes into an attic, look for storage with good handles that help make lifting easier. If you're storing items in a damp basement, storage containers that are waterproof can help protect your decorations from moisture.

How to store Christmas ornaments

Christmas ornaments often include some of the most treasured family heirlooms, so they deserve careful storage. Soft-sided storage totes are popular because they offer additional padding and can fold up when not in use, but they can't be stacked the way hard-sided totes can.

Regardless of the container you choose, it's a good idea to store individual ornaments in soft dividers that can be reconfigured to accommodate different sizes of ornaments. You can also nestle fragile round ornaments in cardboard egg cartons or to-go coffee carriers to protect them.

How to store Christmas decor

Lights, wreaths, nutcrackers, Nativity scenes and more all require thoughtful storage to protect them during the rest of the year. Like ornaments, small décor items should be packaged using soft dividers to prevent scratches or chipping. Ensure everything goes back in its proper place after the holidays by taking a picture of the box's contents before you start decorating.

String light storage is easy: Simply wrap the strands around pieces of cardboard or empty cans from coffee or oatmeal. Wrap them in bubble wrap if you're worried about bulbs breaking. Alternatively, you can buy plastic spools that let you reel lights up for tidier storage. These reels can also help keep beaded garlands and wired ribbon neat.

For a Christmas wreath, look for wreath bags and boxes, which provide specialized support so the wreath won't be misshapen when you get it out next year. If you have room in a closet, wreaths can also be hung up on wardrobe hanging rods or even reshaped wire hangers.

How to store a Christmas tree

Disassembling a Christmas tree and returning it to its packaging at the end of the season can feel like a daunting task, especially if it's already strung with lights. Instead, consider a storage bag that can fit the entire tree. Some require the tree to be partly broken down into large sections, while others are designed to envelop whole trees. Look for a tree bag with wheels at one end to make moving the tree in and out of storage even easier.

How to store gift wrap

Craft caddies and hanging organizers provide all-in-one storage for wrapping paper, gift bags, bows and gift tags. Thanks to the long and narrow shape of wrapping paper, gift wrap organizers can also take advantage of the storage space under a bed. If you have wall space available in a closet or office, a simple wall-mounted plastic bag dispenser can help keep your wrapping paper tubes organized while also allowing you to see what you have at a glance.

Best ornament storage

Grandin Road Ornament 3-Tier Storage with Trays

Store your ornaments without fear of breakage in this durable padded storage case. It comes with three trays with soft, customizable dividers, plus a roomy zippered front pouch for hangers or oversized ornaments.

Grandin Road Collectible 2-Tier Storage with Trays

Tuck your most precious ornaments into this soft-sided case to keep them safe until next year. Its customizable padded dividers can easily accommodate large and delicate ornaments.

Grandin Road Multi-Use Storage Box

This roomy soft-sided tote can hold ornaments, garlands, stockings and more. It features heavy-duty carboard sides, fabric handles and a label window to help you identify its contents.

Other great Grandin Road Christmas storage

Grandin Road Wrapping Paper Storage

Corral wrapping paper tubes, ribbon and gift tags in this soft-sided case. It offers three clear polyvinyl chloride (PVC) interior pouches, plus flexible compartments to keep all your gift-wrapping needs organized.

Grandin Road Wreath Storage Bag

An internal hanger and suspension system keep your wreath safely stored in this durable zippered storage bag. Use the included identification label to keep track of which wreath is which, or choose from three color options.

Grandin Road Rolling Tree Storage Bag

Effortlessly store a cumbersome artificial tree (up to 9 feet tall!) in this rolling storage tote bag. Its full-length front zipper makes access easy, while plastic wheels help bring your tree back and forth from storage.

Grandin Road Upright Standard Tree Storage

Your hinged artificial tree can stay as beautiful as the day you got it with this sturdy tree storage bag. Simply attach it to your tree stand, open the tree skirt, and pull up to wrap your tree for easy, compact storage.

Grandin Road Pop-Up Storage Bag

Store garlands, miniature artificial trees or even floral centerpieces in this clever pop-up storage bag. Its sewn-in wire spring frame expands into a tote that's nearly 3 feet tall.

Grandin Road Sawyer Storage Bench

Store holiday essentials in plain sight using this elegant yet multifunctional storage bench. Made with bonded leather, it features a button-tufted top and nailhead trim and comes in five colors.

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

Copyright 2024 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.

We're all so busy that it's no surprise if you find yourself reaching for the instant ramen or hitting up Postmates more than you'd like to. Don't beat yourself up about it — it's natural to tire of cooking night after night for the rest of your life. 

In the new year, instead of burning yourself out by trying to get into cooking complicated dishes, why not buy yourself some of the best kitchen gadgets to make cooking easier? From Instant Pots and air fryers to hand mixers and graters, these products make cooking easier, so you might be tempted to spend more time in the kitchen. 

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Tips for getting back into cooking

Perhaps you used to cook more often, maybe you even loved cooking. Whatever the reason, it's easy to fall off the cooking wagon and start finding it a chore. As the new year rolls around and people start making resolutions, many of us want to cook from scratch more. Here are some tips to help you get back into cooking without piling on the pressure or feeling guilty for letting it fall by the wayside. 

Start simple

If you're finding it difficult to cook regularly, the last thing you need to do is try to tackle complicated recipes. Think of some simple favorites and start with those. And, don't be afraid to take shortcuts if you need to. Can't face chopping vegetables? Buy some pre-prepared veggies. Don't want to make that pesto from scratch? Buy it ready-made. 

Think about what you love

Cooking can be joyful, so think about what draws you to cooking and focus on that. Maybe you want to learn how to make amazing Vietnamese food or perhaps you like geeking out over lesser-known condiments or tropical fruits. Whatever you love about food and cooking, lean into that. 

Gather useful cooking tools

The right kitchen gadgets make cooking easier. Arm yourself with some of these and you may find you spend less time in the kitchen while still making tasty meals. We'll walk you through some of our favorite gadgets later. 

Cook with — or for — friends

If cooking by yourself doesn't appeal, consider inviting friends over to cook with you. Or, if you're happy to cook alone but find cooking just for yourself uninspiring, why not invite a few friends over and cook for them? You might find more happiness in cooking for and sharing food with others. 

Explore batch cooking

Cooking night after night gets many people down. But there's an easy way to remedy this: batch cooking. Instead of cooking for the number of people in your household, double or triple the batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for those days you can't face cooking. 

Best kitchen gadgets to make cooking easier

Instant Pot Duo Plus

What can't an Instant Pot do? Well, it won't do the prep work for you, but it can slow cook, pressure cook, make rice, cook pasta and much more. Stick the ingredients in, press a few buttons and you can relax until dinnertime. 

Ninja AF101 Air Fryer

This air fryer makes deliciously crispy food without the effort of frying. You put your ingredients in the basket, set the temperature and timer and let it roll. It can also roast, reheat and dehydrate food. 

Cuisinart Round Classic Waffle Maker

A waffle maker might help you become excited about getting back in the kitchen because who doesn't love waffles? Just mix up the batter, pour it in, and the rest is up to this handy appliance. 

Braun Electric Hand Mixer

If one of the things that turns you off about cooking is the mixing, chopping and kneading, this multifunction hand mixer will help you out. Among the best kitchen gadgets to make cooking easier, it not only mixes, but also has dough hooks for kneading and a miniature food processor attachment. 

Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Dutch Oven

A Dutch oven is the kind of pan you can just stick ingredients in, put them in the oven and wait for the timer to count down. Not only is a Dutch oven a practical choice, this one is beautiful, too.

DASH Rapid Egg Cooker

This egg cooker can cook up to six eggs at once. You can use it for hard-boiled, soft-boiled, poached eggs, scrambled eggs or omelets, so it's a hugely versatile gadget. 

Anyday Microwave Cookware

Not your average microwave cookware, these pieces are endorsed by Chef David Chang of Momofuku and Ugly Delicious. They're made from sturdy borosilicate glass and have a gasket in the lid that keeps enough steam in to cook effectively but vents any excess to prevent pressure buildup. 

Microplane Professional Series Grater

Prepping aromatics, such as garlic and ginger, can be a pain, but a coarse Microplane grater makes the process effortless. It also works brilliantly for cheese, nuts and chocolate. It might seem simple, but it'll soon become your favorite kitchen gadget.

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Lauren Corona 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-office skin care treatments can be quite expensive, so if you’re looking for ways to improve your skin at home, you may have heard of the NuFace Trinity+. This at-home facial toning device is said to use targeted microcurrents to help contour and lift the muscles and skin on your face. 

To find out whether this device is worth the hype, we sent it to the BestReviews Testing Lab, where our tester regularly used the product over a period of weeks. Although they were impressed with the immediate results of using the product to visibly de-puff and tighten their face in the mornings, they were not yet able to see any long-term results after using the product for several weeks. 

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What is the BestReviews Testing Lab?

The BestReviews Testing Lab wades through all the marketing hype to see how well products perform in real-world situations. It consists of regular consumers, as well as category experts, searching for the best products that can enhance their lives. We consider items the same way shoppers do, focusing on factors like how easy they are to use, how effective they are and other features that distinguish them from similar products.

What our tester thought of the NuFace Trinity+

Our tester used the NuFace Trinity+ on their face and neck over a period of weeks. They found the product simple to set up and use. Although they were impressed by the immediate de-puffing and lifting results, they didn’t notice any long-term results. They found the NuFace gel primer dried very quickly, making it difficult to use with the toning device. 

Setup and user experience

Our tester felt setting up the product was “super easy.” It only required attaching the cord to the dock and plugging it in. They enjoyed that the wand was simple to turn on and set since it only had two buttons: one for power on/off and one for the three intensity levels. 

The tester found the device easy to hold and maneuver, despite a bit of heaviness. They glided the product over their cheeks and neck. They especially liked how the product felt while being used on their cheekbones and jawline. They only used the lowest of the three intensity levels because they felt a bit of discomfort when using the higher intensity levels. 

When not in use, they kept the device plugged in and charging, so they never experienced any battery loss issues. 

NuFace Hydrating Aquagel and NuFace Firming and Brightening Silk Creme

The NuFace Hydrating Aquagel is designed to prep the skin before using the NuFace Trinity+ device. It is a hyaluronic-acid-infused activator gel that conducts microcurrents from your device to the facial muscles while leaving skin hydrated. 

Our tester found that the gel dried very quickly on the face, so it wasn’t ideal to apply it all over their face before using the device. Instead, they had to apply the gel in sections and only use the device on that particular section before moving on to the next section. 

After using the Trinity+ device, our tester found their skin felt tight, so they followed with the Silk Creme. Although they liked the texture, they followed the product with their regular moisturizer for extra hydration. 

Results

According to our tester, results could be seen immediately after use. They noticed their skin looked tighter. They felt this product was able to de-puff their face when used in the morning. 

However, even after a few weeks of use, the tester saw no long-term results. The tester felt the product might need to be used consistently for a longer period to see long-term or lasting results. 

Best NuFace Trinity+ products

NuFACE Trinity+ Starter Kit

This four-piece set is perfect for beginners who want to start using a facial-toning device. It includes the NuFace Trinity+ device, the Hydrating Aquagel, the Brightening Silk Creme and an applicator brush to apply the creams to the face and neck. 

NuFACE Effective Lip & Eye Attachment

To better target fine lines around your lips and eyes, use this microcurrent attachment. It’s designed to help lift eyebrows and nasolabial folds and tighten skin around your eyes, mouth and forehead.

NuFACE Wrinkle Reducer Attachment

This LED red-light-therapy-device attachment uses a combination of red, amber and infrared lights to help reduce the look of fine lines and full-face wrinkles. It also works to promote circulation around the eyes, mouth and forehead.

NuFACE Trinity+ Complete

If you enjoy a more extensive skin care routine, consider this six-piece bundle. It includes everything from the Starter Kit, plus two additional attachments for the device. The targeted microcurrent attachment is great for small areas, such as smile lines and eye wrinkles, while the LED red-light attachment works to target wrinkles.

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Talia Ergas 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.

Is it really New Year’s Eve without glitter? If you’ve been waiting for a reason to get glammed up, you’re in luck. While you never need an excuse to don glitter shoes, clothes or makeup, the holidays definitely seem more magical with a bit of sparkle.

From making your eyes bigger to giving them an almond shape, eye makeup can transform your entire face. So this year, consider a shimmer eyeshadow palette to help you shine. Whether you’re ringing in 2024 with a party or from the comfort of your home, here are the best glitter eyeshadow palette picks for a glam New Year’s Eve makeup look.

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What to look for in a glitter eyeshadow palette

Glitter size

Glitter eyeshadow comes in all sizes and shapes. When choosing a glittery eyeshadow palette, first decide what type of glitter look you want to create. Shimmery shadows are widespread and common in many palettes, giving you a subtle highlight. On the other hand, some glitter eyeshadows are chunky and will shine for miles. Then, there is everything in between, including fine glitter and metallic shades. If you want a little bit of everything, look for a palette with several sizes of glitter.

Shade range

If you already have an outfit picked out, choose a small palette with complementing shades. For example, some palettes come with only four shades and are generally designed to create a cohesive look together. However, if you’re unsure of your New Year’s Eve look or want a versatile palette that you can use all year long, consider a larger palette with a more extensive shade range. From neutral to bright to pastels, glittery eyeshadow palettes come in all shades. You may want to opt for a more subtle look, go with bold smoky eyes or something in between.

How to remove glitter eyeshadow

Whether you’re wearing hair glitter, body glitter or eye glitter, the only downside is removing it. While shimmery eyeshadow may come off as easily as the rest of your makeup, chunkier glitter takes a little more time and effort. Do not try to scrub off the glitter. The skin around the eyes is one of the thinnest on your body, so it’s essential to be gentle when removing eye makeup. Instead, start by gently rubbing an oil cleanser or balm cleanser on and around the glitter. Also, try to get some of the cleanser underneath the stubborn areas. Then, emulsify and completely wash it off. If there is still glitter remaining, gently rub it with a soft cloth. Follow up with a hydrating facial cleanser.

Best eyeshadow palettes for glittery New Year's Eve looks

Morphe 35F Fall Into Fabulous Artistry Eyeshadow Palette

For a shimmery eye look, consider this large Morphe eyeshadow palette. From neutrals to coppers to bold hues, it has 35 shades to create looks for fall or winter. The creamy shadows come with 25 sheens and shimmers and 10 mattes.

Juvia's Place Culture Eyeshadow Palette

Go bold and bright with this rich shadow palette designed to show the adventurous culture of Africa. Create a happy lime green look or bold deep purple display with 30 shades, including 14 shimmery and 16 matte shadows. Plus, each color is formulated with high pigment that pops on any skin tone.

Nabla Ruby Lights Glitter Palette

Small and chunky glitters are combined in the quad palette full of endless magnetic and chameleonic reflective shadows. Colors include ruby, mauve, copper and rose. The multidimensional glitters apply easily with the fingers, require no primers or glue and have no fallout.

ColourPop Truly Madly Deeply Pressed Powder Eyeshadow Palette

All of ColourPop’s bestselling shadows come together in this single palette, including several multidimensional pressed glitters, to create the ultimate New Year’s Eve look. Other shades include peachy pinks and romantic mauves with several shimmer shadows.

Pat McGrath Labs Mothership X Eyeshadow Palette Moonlit Seduction

Create a sparkly, out-of-this-world look, thanks to this moonlit seduction palette. Included are 10 starlit shadows, from moonlit metallics to velvet mattes to alluring astrals. All shadows are formulated to glide on effortlessly and blend beautifully with the other glittery shades.

Too Faced Pretty Rich Diamond Light Eyeshadow Palette

Shine bright like a diamond on New Year’s Eve with this Too Faced eyeshadow palette inspired by the beauty of real-life glimmering diamonds. The 16 shades include vivid glitters, creamy mattes, opulent shimmers and precious pearls. Plus, the four glimmery diamond pressed-gel shades are formulated to self-adhere to minimize fallout.

Urban Decay Naked x Robin Eisenberg Eyeshadow Palette

For a bold look, don’t miss out on this extraterrestrial Urban Decay Naked eyeshadow palette full of martian mattes and meteor shower shimmers. Shades include warm and cool tones, such as bronze, periwinkle, deep blue and dark teal. The Urban Decay palette features a mirror and a dual-ended eyeshadow brush.

Too Faced Born This Way Sunset Stripped Eyeshadow Palette

Since these shadows are formulated with coconut oil and hyaluronic acid, they will replenish the skin’s moisture while shining bright. The Too Faced palette comes with 16 shades, including chunky sparkle shades, shimmers, sultry mattes and metallic shades. Plus, this palette is cruelty-free and paraben-free.

Sigma Beauty Ambiance Eyeshadow Palette

For a neutral palette that will deliver for any occasion throughout the year, opt for this golden-hour glow palette. Shades include warm mattes, shimmers and metallic eyeshadows for the ultimate New Year’s Eve look.

NYX Professional Makeup Utopia Ultimate Eyeshadow Palette

This glittery Nyx eyeshadow palette features 16 highly pigmented, complementary shades for dramatic effect. The set includes light and dark matte neutrals; glittery orange, metallic gold, brown and silver; as well as a light green shimmer that would look gorgeous on green eyes.

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Bre Richey 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 time is fast approaching when many make their New Year’s resolutions. The most popular ones usually involve some sort of steps to lead a healthier life. Exercise and eating better often top that list. When made and consumed wisely, a smoothie can be an excellent nutritious treat. Here is a list of the best blenders, smoothie makers and accessories to kick-start your health.

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Are smoothies a healthy treat?

When made with a balance of ingredients, a smoothie can be a very healthy, nutritionally dense meal. The secret is to make sure you add a balance of ingredients in your blender, not all fruits and juices. When evaluating any recipe, make sure it has carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats.

It is also important to use water or skim milk as your liquid base and add a protein source, which will help you feel full after consuming. Then, remember to wait before making a second one as it can take as long as 40 minutes for the brain to release satiety hormones that make you feel full.

What is the primary concern of drinking smoothies?

The biggest concern with smoothies is portion control. It is possible to have too much of a good thing. When choosing an insulated tumbler or travel mug, either pick a small size or don't fill the large one up all the way. The ideal smoothie should only be 8 to 12 ounces.

Best blenders for smoothies and accessories to go with them

KitchenAid K400 Variable Speed Blender with Tamper

With its ribbed jar, asymmetrical blade and adaptive motor, not only can this KitchenAid blender make a smoothie in about 20 seconds, it creates a smooth and consistent texture. The self-clean cycle is a convenient and much-appreciated feature.

Ninja Nutri-Blender Pro with Auto-iQ

Ninja's Auto-iQ feature combines pulsing, blending and pausing patterns to deliver an exceptionally smooth beverage. The 1,100-peak-watt motor on this Ninja blender provides enough power to easily crush ice at the touch of a button.

Ninja Foodi Smoothie Bowl Maker and Nutrient Extractor

This popular Ninja Foodi blender lets you make bowls and beverages. It has an impressive 1,200-peak-watts of power and six one-touch programs, so you can easily blend, pulse, extract, make a smoothie and more.

Black + Decker PowerCrush Blender

This Black + Decker blender is specially designed so you can crush ice with ease. It has three speeds and a quad blade and is large enough to make six smoothies at once.

Oster 1200-Watt Pro Blender

This Oster blender has a number of settings, such as food type and thickness, that let you customize your blend. There is even a setting designated for making smoothies. The texture technology takes the guesswork out of getting the perfect consistency.

Magic Bullet Single-Serve Blender

The Magic Bullet blender is a popular single-serve model that offers an outstanding balance of features at a reasonable price. It comes with three different-sized cups, resealable lids and a 10-second recipe guide.

Hamilton Beach Personal Blender

If budget is your top priority, this entry-level personal blender has a single-button operation that lets you make one 14-ounce smoothie. It is tiny, but powerful enough to blend frozen fruit and ice.

12-Ounce Stainless Steel Insulated Mug

For people who want to take their smoothie on a morning commute, this double-walled mug will keep your beverage cold for up to nine hours. It holds the perfect amount of smoothie (12 ounces) and has a sliding lid to help prevent splashing and spills.

12-Pack Reusable Smoothie Straws

Environmentally conscious smoothie drinkers will appreciate this assortment of 12 reusable straws. They come in six bright colors and feature an extra-wide opening to suck up the thickest beverages. Purchase also includes two cleaning brushes and a storage bag.

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Allen Foster 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.

Here are some great choices if you’re ready to become a plant parent

Indoor plants don’t just look good, they make you feel good as well. Adding a Hoya Pubicalyx or a Philodendron to your home has benefits that go beyond merely adding a little green to your color scheme. Plants can boost your mood and make you happy. And it’s not just plant lovers who make this claim. The Mayo Clinic agrees: Gardening is good for you.

To help you fill up those indoor plant stands with home-enhancing flora, here is a list of the best plants to choose from. 

The ultimate plant parent gift guide

Why plants are a great solution to the oft-failed New Year’s resolution 

New Year’s resolutions abound this time of year. And while many people abandon their life-enhancing routines within a month, purchasing a living thing means you can’t just stop. When you invest in an indoor plant, you’re making a commitment that will last from two to five years … or longer.

Simply put, quitting is not an option. Your resolution to lead a happier, healthier life will stay intact as long as your plants are alive.

Benefits of having indoor plants

How beneficial can sprinkling a few plants throughout your home really be? You’d be surprised. Among the ways indoor plants can enhance your life, they:

• help raise your home’s indoor air quality
• have a calming effect, which can reduce stress
• may make you more productive
• can be therapeutic when you tend to them
• can help diminish noise pollution
• can boost your immunity to help prevent you from getting sick
• can reduce recovery time if you do get sick — you will feel better faster

Basic care tips for indoor plants

Caring for a living thing can seem a little daunting at first. But remember, nature thrives and you do little, if anything, to keep most of the plants outside your home or apartment alive. Tending to indoor plants isn’t really as tough as people think. Especially if you remember these few basic tips.

• Understand what your plants need: Your new plant will come with a care guide that tells you exactly what it needs. Even if it doesn’t, Google is always an option.
• Give your plants what they need: After understanding crucial things like temperature, sunlight, water and nutrient needs, place each plant in a location where it can thrive and you can easily care for it. 
• Watch for signs your plants aren’t getting what they need: Just like people, when plants get ill, it’s easy to see. Be alert for any signs that they aren’t happy.
• Give your plants what they need, again: If you notice your plants don’t look as happy as they should, revisit the care guide to make sure you aren’t forgetting anything. 

Best trendy houseplants 

Hoya Pubicalyx Hanging Basket

This plant is exceptional because it creates a cascade of glossy, dark-green foliage that may have highlights of silver or silver-pink. It thrives with very little care — you only need to water it once every one to two weeks. And indirect sunlight is best.

Anthurium “Selby’s Silver”

The large, heart-shaped leaves on this plant feature a gorgeous pattern of brightly contrasting veins. This natural design makes each leaf a work of art. If you’d like to bring a touch of the tropics into your home or apartment, this is a great option. The best place for Selby’s Silver is in bright, indirect light with a somewhat humid environment. Think bathroom or kitchen.

Philodendron “Moonlight”

This tropical hybrid begins with stunning neon yellow leaves that darken to a bright green. It can provide a vibrant splash of nature in any room that has just a couple hours of direct morning sunlight. After that, indirect sun is essential to keep the leaves of this beautiful plant from burning.

Syngonium podophyllum “Pink”

Syngonium plants are one of the best you can buy to purify the air in your home. They have a delightful pink coloring, but, because of the irritating calcium oxalate crystals, they are not the best for curious kids and pets. Keep these beauties in bright indirect sunlight and water regularly.

Monstera Deliciosa

The Monstera deliciosa is a slightly quirky plant that has natural holes in its leaves, giving it the nickname the “Swiss cheese plant.” This exotic option is best in bright-to-medium indirect light. You only need to water it once every one to two weeks, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.

Monstera “Thai Constellation”

This version of the Monstera features the same wondrous natural holes as the previous one, but it also has creamy flecks that decorate the large, heart-shaped leaves. This rare occurrence is due to a gene mutation. The plant grows slowly but has the same care guide as the Monstera deliciosa.

Philodendron Pink Princess

This plant has wonderfully diverse leaves that can feature bubblegum-pink variegation, making it a great conversation piece. It thrives in medium-to-bright indirect sunlight and can go one or two weeks between waterings, making it easy to care for.

Alocasia Dragon’s Breath

If you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary, the dark green and deep purple lance-shaped leaves give this plant a remarkable presence. The dynamic look resembles a dragon, making it ideal for the “Game of Thrones” fan. It craves well-drained soil with indirect light and high humidity.

Best plant accessories

Bacekoll Tall Plant Stand with Grow Light

This dynamic seven-tier plant stand comes in an eye-catching half-moon shape. It is an impressive 64 inches tall and has 14 potted stands along with two hangers. The grow lights are sufficient for a variety of plants, and the stand features a sturdy metal design for durability.

Nook Theory 4-Pack Macrame Plant Hanger

If you prefer to hang your plants, this four-pack of decorative macrame hangers is a wonderful option. It comes with eight ceiling hooks, and the material is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. You get a basket-weaved hanger, a diamond-shaped hanger, a twirl hanger and a duo hanger.

Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.

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

People who love to cook are always looking for amazing kitchen items that enhance their efficiency and utility while they're prepping and cooking their favorite meals. You know the ones — the products that can stand in for multiple other kitchen tools. Products like Drew Barrymore's Hero Pan can replace four other tools and be used to boil, strain, sauté, simmer, pan fry, sear, braise, steam, stir fry and serve food.

This pan is comparable to the viral Always Pan from Our Place, only with a significantly more affordable price tag — especially right now since Walmart is running a deal where you can get it for $10 off. Considering that other multi-use pans like this one will typically run you into triple-digit prices, that's a pretty good deal. If you order it online now and choose pickup at your local Walmart, you can even get it in time for Christmas.

Everything you need to host a holiday dinner

The Hero Pan — and other favorites from Drew Barrymore's Walmart line

Beautiful All-in-one 4-quart Hero Pan

The Hero Pan is on sale right now, so it's the perfect time to score this all-in-one tool, which comes with the 4-quart pan, a lid and a steamer basket insert (which also doubles as a strainer). This lightweight, enameled cast-iron pan has pour spouts on both sides, making it great for both right- and left-handed cooks. And its nonstick coating makes it easy to clean.

Beautiful 5-quart Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven

This 5-quart Dutch oven is great for large meals and hosting. The cast iron holds in heat and locks in moisture, making this the ideal item for braising, baking, slow cooking and more.

Beautiful 6-quart Enamel Dutch Oven

Need to cook for a crowd? This 6-quart Dutch oven can handle large cuts of meat, big meals, casseroles and more. It's made to go from the stovetop to the oven (and is oven-safe up to 500 degrees). It also has sturdy handles for easy transfers.

Beautiful 5.5-quart Ceramic Non-Stick Sauté Pan

This 5.5-quart sauté pan is great for one-pan meals, thanks to its extra-large capacity. It heats up fast and comes with a lid to give you extra control over the heat and moisture retention as you cook.

Beautiful 12-piece Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set

You can outfit your whole kitchen with this 12-piece set of ceramic nonstick cookware from Drew Barrymore's Walmart line. The set includes 8- and 10-inch fry pans, a 3-quart sauté pan with a lid, a two-quart saucepan with a lid, a 5-quart Dutch oven with a lid and four cookware protectors for safe storage.

Beautiful 8-quart Stock Pot

This 8-quart stockpot is great for soups, stews, stocks and more. It's safe to use on stovetops and in the oven up to 500 degrees.

Viral favorite multi-use pans from Our Place

Our Place Large Always Pan

The pan that started the multi-use craze is also on sale. Get the 10-in-one Always Pan for $135 instead of $180 during the Our Place Holiday Sale. It includes the pan, a lid and a nesting spatula, and lets you sauté, sear, bake, braise, fry, boil, roast, strain, serve and store all in one pan.

Our Place Perfect Pot

The Our Place Perfect Pot is on sale for $125 instead of $165 during the Holiday Sale. It includes the pot, a lid with a built-in strainer and a nesting spoon.

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Christina Marfice 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.

If your New Year's resolution has anything to do with being more productive, more focused or more efficient when you work from home, this sale is for you. Wayfair's End-of-Year Clearance sale includes some amazing deals on office furniture that will turn your home workspace into one of your favorite rooms in the house.

From an adjustable-height standing desk to a swiveling task chair, book storage and more, Wayfair has everything you need to give your home office a makeover — while making it look great, too. And did we mention the discount? All these products are on sale, some for up to 52% off their normal price, so you can also save big on giving your workspace a new look for the new year.

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Shop these home office essentials during Wayfair's End-of-Year Clearance

Inbox Zero Daycia Height Adjustable L-Shape Standing Desk

This height-adjustable electric desk can help alleviate tension in your neck and back by standing to work instead of spending long hours sitting. It even includes presets so you can adjust the height to a favorite position at the touch of a button.

Gracie Oaks Magomed 72W Single Pedestal Desk

This stately pedestal desk offers an expansive work surface with plenty of room to spread out, plus storage and a convenient wire management grommet so you can keep your cords and cables secure and out of sight.

Wade Logan Beaussicot Task Chair

This swiveling task chair is height-adjustable so you can find the perfect comfortable position to work in. Its extra-wide armless seat lets you sit in almost any position.

Latitude Run Jakyb Standing & Height-Adjustable Desks

This height-adjustable standing desk features an extra-large workplace — enough to accommodate two monitors. It also has presets for fast, easy adjustments and cable holes for convenient wire management.

Willa Arlo Interiors Lundgren Leather Task Chair with Padded Arms

This leather task chair perfectly combines style and comfort with timeless leather upholstery and gold accents for a luxurious look. The tufted back adds cushioning and also looks great. The chair's height can be adjusted to help you find the most comfortable way to work.

Inbox Zero Jaylo 50.39'' Desk

This L-shaped desk is perfect for minimalists. It features four open shelves, including one sized for a desktop computer. It also comes with a removable monitor stand, so you can choose whether to elevate your screen.

Millwood Pines Todi Geometric Storage Bookcase

This shelf provides book storage and also acts as a sculptural statement piece, with a drawer built into its base for hiding away anything you need to store out of sight.

17 Stories Fortson 95.2" L Shaped Desk with Shelves

This L-shaped desk gives you the flexibility to configure your home office how you'd like since it can be assembled in either direction.

Etta Avenue Adan Velvet Task Chair

You can add some elegance to your home office with this trendy velvet task chair. It comes in 13 colors, so you can choose one to fit your décor style. Reviewers say the chair is fun, sturdy and comfortable.

Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.

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Christina Marfice 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.

As winter lingers and cold weather combined with home heating system operation dries out indoor air, you might be considering a home humidifier. By adding moisture to the air, this appliance can significantly improve air quality and reduce a multitude of health risks.

A home humidifier adds moisture with one of four different types of technology and comes in various sizes to suit different living spaces. The best humidifier will produce comfortable indoor air all winter long.

This article discusses the benefits of humidifier use in winter, with a roundup of the top options available for the home. We evaluated a few of these models in the BestReviews Testing Lab, including the Levoit Smart Classic 300S Humidifier and Pure Enrichment MistAire Humidifier.

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Why is the air drier in the winter?

The chill of winter air comes with another unpleasant feature: It has a drying effect. That's because cold air doesn't hold moisture levels as well as warm air. Unlike the air on a summer day when humidity is noticeable, moisture dissipates quickly in cold winter weather. What's more, the heat from a furnace exacerbates the problem.

Humidifier benefits

According to the Mayo Clinic, dry indoor winter air can result in several uncomfortable conditions, but using a humidifier can help. One of the first signs that the air inside of a home is too dry is the development of skin that's itchy, flaky or cracked. Humidifying air is hydrating and soothes the symptoms of dry skin. Dry air can also cause a stuffy nose, nosebleeds, dry mouth and snoring and can even aggravate asthma. Improved breathing is another benefit of using a humidifier.

Humidifier maintenance

To get consistent results and prevent the buildup of mold and bacteria, it's vital to clean a humidifier frequently. Change the water daily, and clean the unit about every three days with a solution of hydrogen peroxide or vinegar. Change filters according to the manufacturer's instructions. When a humidifier isn't being operated consistently, it should be dried thoroughly in between uses.

Types of humidifiers

Many modern humidifiers distribute fine mist moisture into the air with either ultrasonic waves or fan-driven evaporation. Both ultrasonic and evaporative humidifiers are highly reliable at increasing humidity in your home.

Impeller and steam humidifiers are also available. Impeller models produce a lot of moisture but can be messy. Because steam humidifiers emit warm moisture into the air, they are often preferred by those suffering from colds or respiratory viruses. However, hot steam can cause burns, so this type of humidifier should not be used in homes with children.

Large and compact models are available. Most manufacturers provide information about the area that can be humidified by a particular model in the product description.

Best humidifiers

Levoit Smart Classic 300S Humidifier

We evaluated this Levoit humidifier in the BestReviews Testing Lab and loved how well it performed. It features an intuitive smart app and automatically adjusts operation based on indoor humidity levels. The top-fill design makes it easy to replace the water. This multifunctional device also works as an essential oil diffuser and night light.

Vicks Filter-Free CoolRelief Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier

This Vicks humidifier is medicated to help clear blocked sinuses, as well as relieve allergy symptoms and coughs. It's compatible with Vicks Vapopads and VapoSteam products. The 1.2-gallon tank is suitable for medium-sized rooms. This Vicks cool mist humidifier is filter-free and easy to maintain.

Pure Enrichment MistAire Humidifier

Another one of the humidifiers we tested, we were impressed by the output of this model. The MistAire offers a generous capacity of 1.5 litres and up to 25 hours of continuous Whisper-Quiet operation. One thing our tester disliked about this humidifier is that there is no option to turn off the night light. Still, we recommend it as one of the best baby humidifier options, given the night light and quiet operation. It's easy to clean with the included brush, and since there's only one button, the operation is straightforward, too.

Guardian Technologies Top-Fill Ultrasonic Tabletop Humidifier

This model's tank protection inhibits mold growth. The ultrasonic humidifier has user-friendly controls and is easy to fill thanks to the top-fill opening.

PureGuardian Ultrasonic Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier

As both a cool and warm mist humidifier, this one stands out among its competitors. The tank resists mildew and mold for fresh, clean moisture.

Homedics TotalComfort Deluxe Ultrasonic Humidifier

This Homedics humidifier delivers mist in a 360-degree pattern for even moisture distribution. The feature set includes a top-fill tank, humidity indicator and large capacity.

Crane 1.2-Gallon Cool Mist Humidifier

A sleek design and large, easy-to-fill tank make this Crane humidifier a welcome addition to any home. Components that can be placed in the dishwasher make it simple to clean.

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Jennifer Manfrin 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.

Indoor plants don't just look good, they make you feel good as well. Adding a Hoya Pubicalyx or a Philodendron to your home has benefits that go beyond merely adding a little green to your color scheme. Plants can boost your mood and make you happy. And it's not just plant lovers who make this claim. The Mayo Clinic agrees: Gardening is good for you.

To help you fill up those indoor plant stands with home-enhancing flora, here is a list of the best plants to choose from. 

The ultimate plant parent gift guide

Why plants are a great solution to the oft-failed New Year's resolution 

New Year's resolutions abound this time of year. And while many people abandon their life-enhancing routines within a month, purchasing a living thing means you can't just stop. When you invest in an indoor plant, you're making a commitment that will last from two to five years … or longer.

Simply put, quitting is not an option. Your resolution to lead a happier, healthier life will stay intact as long as your plants are alive.

Benefits of having indoor plants

How beneficial can sprinkling a few plants throughout your home really be? You'd be surprised. Among the ways indoor plants can enhance your life, they:

• help raise your home's indoor air quality
• have a calming effect, which can reduce stress
• may make you more productive
• can be therapeutic when you tend to them
• can help diminish noise pollution
• can boost your immunity to help prevent you from getting sick
• can reduce recovery time if you do get sick — you will feel better faster

Basic care tips for indoor plants

Caring for a living thing can seem a little daunting at first. But remember, nature thrives and you do little, if anything, to keep most of the plants outside your home or apartment alive. Tending to indoor plants isn't really as tough as people think. Especially if you remember these few basic tips.

• Understand what your plants need: Your new plant will come with a care guide that tells you exactly what it needs. Even if it doesn't, Google is always an option.
• Give your plants what they need: After understanding crucial things like temperature, sunlight, water and nutrient needs, place each plant in a location where it can thrive and you can easily care for it. 
• Watch for signs your plants aren't getting what they need: Just like people, when plants get ill, it's easy to see. Be alert for any signs that they aren't happy.
• Give your plants what they need, again: If you notice your plants don't look as happy as they should, revisit the care guide to make sure you aren't forgetting anything. 

Best trendy houseplants 

Hoya Pubicalyx Hanging Basket

This plant is exceptional because it creates a cascade of glossy, dark-green foliage that may have highlights of silver or silver-pink. It thrives with very little care — you only need to water it once every one to two weeks. And indirect sunlight is best.

Anthurium "Selby’s Silver"

The large, heart-shaped leaves on this plant feature a gorgeous pattern of brightly contrasting veins. This natural design makes each leaf a work of art. If you'd like to bring a touch of the tropics into your home or apartment, this is a great option. The best place for Selby’s Silver is in bright, indirect light with a somewhat humid environment. Think bathroom or kitchen.

Philodendron "Moonlight"

This tropical hybrid begins with stunning neon yellow leaves that darken to a bright green. It can provide a vibrant splash of nature in any room that has just a couple hours of direct morning sunlight. After that, indirect sun is essential to keep the leaves of this beautiful plant from burning.

Syngonium podophyllum "Pink"

Syngonium plants are one of the best you can buy to purify the air in your home. They have a delightful pink coloring, but, because of the irritating calcium oxalate crystals, they are not the best for curious kids and pets. Keep these beauties in bright indirect sunlight and water regularly.

Monstera Deliciosa

The Monstera deliciosa is a slightly quirky plant that has natural holes in its leaves, giving it the nickname the "Swiss cheese plant." This exotic option is best in bright-to-medium indirect light. You only need to water it once every one to two weeks, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.

Monstera "Thai Constellation"

This version of the Monstera features the same wondrous natural holes as the previous one, but it also has creamy flecks that decorate the large, heart-shaped leaves. This rare occurrence is due to a gene mutation. The plant grows slowly but has the same care guide as the Monstera deliciosa.

Philodendron Pink Princess

This plant has wonderfully diverse leaves that can feature bubblegum-pink variegation, making it a great conversation piece. It thrives in medium-to-bright indirect sunlight and can go one or two weeks between waterings, making it easy to care for.

Alocasia Dragon's Breath

If you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary, the dark green and deep purple lance-shaped leaves give this plant a remarkable presence. The dynamic look resembles a dragon, making it ideal for the "Game of Thrones" fan. It craves well-drained soil with indirect light and high humidity.

Best plant accessories

Bacekoll Tall Plant Stand with Grow Light

This dynamic seven-tier plant stand comes in an eye-catching half-moon shape. It is an impressive 64 inches tall and has 14 potted stands along with two hangers. The grow lights are sufficient for a variety of plants, and the stand features a sturdy metal design for durability.

Nook Theory 4-Pack Macrame Plant Hanger

If you prefer to hang your plants, this four-pack of decorative macrame hangers is a wonderful option. It comes with eight ceiling hooks, and the material is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. You get a basket-weaved hanger, a diamond-shaped hanger, a twirl hanger and a duo hanger.

Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.

Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.

Allen Foster 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 a long time, Michaels has been a go-to shopping destination for crafting supplies and home décor. But if you love handmade goods, you're going to want to spend even more time now at Michaels, which just announced the launch of MakerPlace by Michaels, an online marketplace for handmade goods, artist-led classes, how-to guides and more.

The handmade items in Makerplace range from jewelry and home décor to accessories, clothing, craft supplies, beauty items and more. At launch, the marketplace is already home to hundreds of thousands of items artists have listed for sale. Michaels offers them free product listings, supporting its aim to make MakerPlace a platform that supports local artists and small businesses.

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What's behind the new MakerPlace

“The launch of MakerPlace by Michaels deepens our ability to support customers in all of their creative pursuits, whether that be learning new skills, discovering handmade goods or growing their own handmade business,” said Ashley Buchanan, chief executive officer at Michaels. “MakerPlace provides a new way to buy and sell unique handmade art, gifts, goods and classes while empowering our customers to directly support or become handmade sellers themselves.”

Ready to check out some of the creations you can buy from talented artists all over the U.S.? Here are some of our favorites.

Check out these unique handmade goods on MakerPlace by Michaels

Avocado Shape Wood Serving Tray

This handmade, solid wood serving tray is 14 inches long with two compartments shaped like an avocado sliced in half — perfect for chips or vegetables with a dip in the center.

Tea Light Village Paper House

This tea light village comes with seven buildings and five trees, all constructed out of heavy cardstock. When lit up from the inside, it creates a moody glow for the perfect ambiance.

RAISE THEM KIND Graphic Tee

This T-shirt would make the perfect gift for a new parent, with a message we all need: "Raise them kind."

Woodland Nursery Room Hanger

This wooden hanger features three crocheted animals — a fox, a bunny and a deer — to add a boho touch to your nursery.

5" Tall Retro Eclectic Desert Bud Vase

This eclectic ceramic bud vase is decorated in neutral, desert-inspired tones that will match any décor while still making a subtle statement.

Sunrise Headboard Wall Decals

No headboard? No problem. These wall decals create a makeshift headboard in a two-toned, sunburst design that adds style and flair to your bedroom.

Korean Buncheong Style Noodle or Ramen Pottery Bowls

This set of six handmade Korean pottery bowls evokes traditional slipware from the Joseon Dynasty with its rich, dark brown colors. They're food-safe and can be used in a microwave or dishwasher.

Propagation Vase

You can propagate your favorite plants with this station made from ambrosia maple and three propagation vases.

Nursery Bookshelf 

These floating shelves allow you to put books on display. They're ideal for a nursery so toddlers can see book covers and pick out their favorites to read, but you can also use them to display cookbooks, coffee table books, art and more.

Handmade Gummy Bear Cups

You can sip your favorite drink out of this fun porcelain cup with a handmade gummy bear handle.

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Christina Marfice 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.

You may be wondering, are Hoka shoes good for running? Spoiler alert: We love Hoka Women’s Speedgoat 5 Trail-Running Shoes. They have everything you need in a shoe for trail running and long-distance running. Your feet are comfortable and protected, even when you're navigating challenging terrain.

However, since generic praise and unbridled gushing aren't the best way to present a convincing argument, we're going to explain how we tested these Hoka shoes for women and why we liked them so much. After reading our in-depth Hoka shoes review, you're free to make up your own mind, but we think you might just become a huge fan, too.

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What was Hoka's goal?

Hoka's goal was to design “running shoes that could be remarkably kind to the human body and still be world-class fast." The company describes the Speedgoat 5 with these three words: "Grippy. Cushioned. Trailblazer.” Specifically, these Hoka women's running shoes are lighter than the brand's previous models, and they offer better traction.

What to look for in a quality running shoe

Before detailing our experience with this trail-running shoe, it's important to understand what makes a quality running shoe.

Since running is a high-impact activity, if you want to engage for years and years, you need to protect your body. The primary feature of a top running shoe is cushioning. The shoe must reduce the shock waves that resonate throughout your body with every step, potentially damaging knees and other joints. If running accelerates a body's physical deterioration instead of extending its functional years, you're doing something wrong.

Other key features to consider are support, comfort and breathability. If all parts of your foot and ankle are not supported or you experience discomfort while running, you won't have the best experience. Likewise, the heat your feet generate while running needs some place to go so your shoes don't get damp and smelly.

When it comes to value, a good running shoe is built to withstand the rigors of the road or trail. Even if you're running 30 miles each week, you want your shoes to last several months. For some, it also helps if your footwear looks stylish, but to be honest, that should be at the bottom of your priority list.

Why we love these shoes

Hoka Women’s Speedgoat 5 Trail-Running Shoes feel great from the first wear. There's no break-in period and from our experience, they fit true to size.

What stands out is the way these women's Hoka shoes hug and support your foot — even the arch — without feeling heavy or uncomfortable. The tongue is thin and the shoe is breathable, but they have held up over multiple runs with no noticeable deterioration in the cushioning or support.

We did notice that these women's Hoka running shoes seemed to be geared toward normal to wide feet and might not fit a narrow foot as well.

The other area that impressed us was the traction. While it's almost impossible to feel confident when running on the wet, uneven terrain you encounter during trail running (and it isn't advisable to feel overconfident about traction), these shoes do feel more secure than other trail shoes we've used. We didn't experience any lack of traction and there was no toe-jamming, as often occurs when navigating steep downhill runs.

How we tested Hoka Speedgoat 5 Trail-Running Shoes

We didn't just read a few reviews, slip the shoes on and walk across the room. We put these Hoka running shoes through their paces, literally. Our tester runs between 25 and 30 miles each week, with up to 12 of those miles being trail runs. They have keen insight gained from years of experience, so they know precisely what makes a great running shoe.

Not only did our tester use these Hoka women's shoes on daily runs, they wore them in a recent marathon. This gave us the chance to see how they performed and held up in a real-world racing situation.

How the Speedgoat 5 Trail-Running Shoes performed when running a marathon

Not content to just test these Hoka women's shoes in day-to-day conditions, we used them to run the Seattle Marathon. It wasn't the first time our tester has worn Hoka shoes in a race. Previously, they competed using Hoka Challenger and Hoka Bondi 7 running shoes. While other Hoka shoes performed exceptionally well, there's no comparison. We believe that the Speedgoat 5 trail runners are the best Hoka running shoes for women.

These shoes were comfortable from the start. There were no pressure points or chafing points and the thin tongue and slim laces were a joy. For nearly four straight hours of relentless pavement pounding, the laces remained secure, and the shoes required no adjusting. Throughout the entire 26.2 miles, our tester's feet felt supported, with no discomfort other than what is to be expected from such a grueling test of endurance.

What you need to know before purchasing Hoka Speedgoat 5 Trail-Running Shoes

If you're a serious runner, Hoka Women’s Speedgoat 5 Trail-Running Shoes are a great option. We found them to be a solid shoe for trail running. The dense cushioning keeps your feet from fatiguing and it absorbs shock from rocks and hard tree roots. The shoes are lightweight and don't interfere with your sense of agility. While they're low-rise, they still provide an impressive amount of stability, particularly in the midsole and heel.

Also, the shoes have a thin tongue, which adds to their comfort. We were very impressed with the traction and grip and would highly recommend these shoes for trail and distance runners.

Where to buy Hoka Speedgoat 5 Trail-Running Shoes

You can buy Hoka Speedgoat 5 Trail Running Shoes for $154.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods. 

Other products worth considering

Hoka Women's Speedgoat 4 Trail-Running Shoes

This is Hoka's previous Speedgoat model. While it's similar to the Speedgoat 5, these shoes weigh a half-ounce more and don't feature the traction of the newer version. However, that means they cost a little less than Speedgoat 5 shoes. Be sure to check out Nordstrom Rack for other Hoka shoes on sale, as well.

Nike Women's Pegasus Trail 4 Trail-Running Shoes

The emphasis on these women's Nike shoes is to keep your feet dry by adding a layer of Gore-Tex. The heel pull tab facilitates putting these shoes on, while the added traction on the heels and toes helps with inclines and declines.

Asics Women's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes

If budget is a priority, these running shoes still offer an impressive amount of cushioning due to the gel in the heel. A great deal of attention was placed on the midsole support, while the nubby rubber bottoms increase traction.

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Allen Foster 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.

Move over, Black Friday and Prime Day. Some of the best deals we've seen all year are happening right now during Amazon's Winter Sale. You can score amazing discounts on bestsellers in kitchen and electronics — up to 48% off favorites like Shark vacuum cleaners, Ninja air fryers, KitchenAid stand mixers and more.

We don't know how long these deals will last, though, so you'll want to act fast if any of these items are on your wish list, ending 2023 on a truly good note.

Everything you need to host a holiday dinner

Up to 48% off kitchen and electronics favorites from Amazon's Winter Sale

Shark HV301 Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum 48% OFF

This ultra-light vacuum is great for both carpet and hard floors, with powerful suction and swivel steering for getting around furniture and into nooks and crannies where dirt and dust can hide from bulkier cleaners.

Ninja AF101 Air Fryer 42% OFF

The Ninja Air Fryer features an extra-large four-quart capacity, so it's perfect for families. Plus, its extra-wide temperature range (from 105°F-400°F) gives it more flexibility to gently dehydrate foods or quickly crisp them in convection mode.

Ninja BN401 Nutri Pro Compact Personal Blender 40% OFF

Make smoothies, protein shakes and other blended drinks and take them on the go with this powerful personal blender. Its 1,100-watt motor can crush ice to snow in just seconds, resulting in perfectly creamy frozen drinks.

Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Bluetooth Speaker 30% OFF

This Bose Bluetooth speaker is portable but designed to provide true 360-degree sound for an immersive experience no matter where you take it. And with up to 17 hours of battery life and dust and water resistance, you can take it almost anywhere.

KitchenAid 9-Speed Digital Hand Mixer with Turbo Beater II Accessories and Pro Whisk 27% OFF

This hand mixer has nine speed settings for everything from creaming butter to whipping ​​meringue, plus a soft-grip handle to make it easier to hold and a soft start feature to help prevent splatters.

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer 22% OFF

KitchenAid stand mixers are a staple for serious home cooks and bakers, and they rarely go on sale. This one offers easy access to the bowl with its tilt-head design, plus a five-quart capacity for making large batches of cookies, multiple bread loaves and more.

Blink Video Doorbell 40% OFF

You can answer your doorbell from anywhere with two-way audio and a video feed straight to your phone. HD video with both day and night modes also adds extra security.

Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones 35% OFF

These over-ear headphones offer powerful noise canceling, adjust ambient and adaptive sound control, a built-in microphone and up to 35 hours of battery life.

Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by Breville 39% OFF

Start your day with your favorite drink with this combination coffee and espresso machine with a built-in milk frother. It gives you the flexibility to create any drink with the convenience of using Nespresso pods.

Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Evolve Ionic Salon Hair Flat Iron 40% OFF

Ceramic-titanium plates give this flat iron premium, professional quality, allowing you to straighten or style waves easily.

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Christina Marfice 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.

Maybe a salicylic acid cleanser is part of your nightly skin care routine to keep breakouts at bay. Or perhaps you diligently use an SPF moisturizer during the day because you know sun protection is super important for daily use.

But did you know that these beauty products are also eligible for flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) coverage? You may be surprised to learn exactly how many beauty products qualify for use with your tax-free dollars. 

The 50 best Christmas gift ideas 2023

What are FSAs and HSAs?

Let’s back up for a second and go over exactly what FSA and HSA dollars are. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, they are pre-tax dollarsyou can set aside, sometimes directly from your paycheck, to pay for eligible medical expenses.

Your employer may offer an FSA or an HSA as a separate account (often with an associated debit card) to pay for these eligible medical expenses. 

Which beauty products are FSA- and HSA-eligible?

Before you start filling up your Sephora cart, it’s important to note that not all beauty products are FSA- or HSA-eligible. The key here is that these accounts are for medical expenses, so covered beauty products must contain ingredients proven to treat medical conditions; for example, acne or eczema. Products, such as sunscreen, that can be used to aid in the prevention of skin cancer are also eligible. 

According to the FSA store, the following products may be eligible: 

• Acne treatments: This includes acne-targeted facial cleansers, spot treatments, pads, pimple patches, bodywashes, sprays, gels and more.
• Treatments for other skin conditions: Over-the-counter topical treatments for eczema, psoriasis, rosacea or another type of skin condition can qualify, including products from brands like Aveeno and Eucerin.
• Sunscreen: Items that may qualify include traditional sunscreen, facial moisturizers with a sun protection factor (including tinted products), SPF lip balms and more.  
• Retinoids: Since prescription and over-the-counter retinoids may be used to treat acne, they may also qualify as FSA-eligible.

Beyond these common skin care categories, many other products may be eligible for FSA and HSA dollars. Consult the FSA store for a full list of items. 

Certain stores that sell FSA- and HSA-eligible beauty products — including Sephora and Amazon — do the work for you by dedicating sections of their websites to beauty products that can be purchased with FSA and HSA money. 

Best FSA- and HSA-eligible beauty products

Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original

These hydrocolloid-infused stickers can help improve the look of pimples overnight. As you wear them, the pimple gunk is absorbed into the patch. In the morning, they’re easy to remove without redness or irritation. 

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

This fragrance-free, non-comedogenic facial cleanser contains salicylic acid, which works as an effective exfoliator that removes dead skin cells and promotes radiance. Furthermore, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and vitamin D help cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate the skin.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face Serum Sunscreen

This lightweight SPF 60 moisturizing facial serum provides broad-spectrum protection against ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) rays. It’s also formulated with vitamin E, which helps fight against environmental aggressors, such as air pollution. The product is noncomedogenic and nongreasy, and it won’t leave a white cast on skin.

DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46

Yes, even certain makeup products are covered. This all-in-one sunscreen and foundation provides sheer color coverage, helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and blends naturally to match every skin tone. The reason this item makes the cut: Broad spectrum SPF 46 protects against harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30

This lightweight SPF 30 serum is packed with ingredient goodness. Zinc oxide shields skin from damaging ultraviolet rays, while squalane leaves skin appearing softer and smoother. Meanwhile, an antioxidant complex of vitamin E and ethyl ferulate helps protect skin against free-radical damage.

Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25

Protect your lips from harmful sun rays with this hydrating lip balm. It’s formulated with grapefruit and ginger to refresh and soothe, while shea butter and avocado oil soften and condition lips. Vitamin E, green tea extract and antioxidants further help protect lips from damage caused by free radicals. It comes in five delicious scents. 

Soleil Toujours Brightening Eye Cream Mineral SPF 15 with Peptides

Specifically designed for the extra-delicate skin around your eyes, this brightening sunscreen is formulated with peptides, vitamin C and squalane to protect, correct and illuminate the skin. 

Nécessaire The Body Acne Wash

This medicated 2% salicylic acid clearing gel body cleanser targets breakouts all over your body while you wash. It also contains 10% glycerin to draw in moisture and replenish the skin barrier, while zinc-pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA) and niacinamide work to regulate sebum and minimize the look of acne-related hyperpigmentation.

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Talia Ergas 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.

Owning gadgets in the digital age isn't always easy. Sometimes it can be overwhelming to keep track of which devices need to be charged, which require their own smartphone apps, or how to keep them all working properly together.

But there's good news: The best tech gifts are built to make your life more convenient, and many do a great job at simplifying the tasks that eat up too much of your time. Whether it's the perfect stocking stuffer for the techie in your life or gear to streamline day-to-day life, these are the best tech gift ideas for whoever is on your holiday shopping list.

The best tech gifts for everyone in your life

Best tech gifts

Echo Show 5 (3rd Gen)

Amazon's Echo Show 5 is our favorite Alexa-based device, having evaluated its previous generation in the BestReviews Testing Lab. This 2023 model is even better, with twice the bass and clearer sound. It's a nightstand speaker with Amazon's ubiquitous digital assistant built-in, so you can do anything from asking for the weather forecast to getting step-by-step recipes. The included camera and microphone make it easy to make video calls with other compatible devices, but our favorite feature is the alarm clock, which can be coordinated with smart bulbs so you're naturally woken up with light.

Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen)

You may be familiar with Ring's video doorbells, which are quickly becoming a standard in home security, but Ring also has a full suite of security products. Our favorite is the newest version of the Ring Indoor Cam, released in 2023. This tiny camera plugs into any standard outlet and gives you a real-time video feed on your device. You can set up motion-activated alerts or even use it as a baby monitor (with a two-way-talk built-in intercom).  It's one of the best gifts for tech lovers who also want enhanced security.

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360

If you're looking for cool tech gifts, consider a Chromebook. Since these devices are built on Chrome OS's cloud-based model, they're easily the most secure laptops available. Google always keeps them up-to-date, and all of your work is auto-saved to the web. This Samsung Galaxy Chromebook is one of the most popular models available. It's fast enough for work or school. With an ultrathin, compact design, it's flexible enough for anywhere you want to take it. Since it's a 2021 model, it's not overly pricey like newer options.

ecobee3 Lite smart thermostat

Smart thermostats are great for making sure the temperature in your home is always perfect, and they're useful for saving money on heating and cooling bills, too. Whether you're looking for the best thermostat on the market or you just need a simple way to set temperature schedules, our favorite is the ecobee3 Lite. If you pick one up, your heating bill will thank you.

ClearMaxv 1-Foot Outlet Extenders

If you know someone with a lot of tech in their house, chances are they've got at least one power strip with a spaghetti of wires overlapping one another and some plugs that are so bulky they cover other outlets. That's where outlet extenders come in handy: one-foot extension cords make it easy to keep track of what's plugged in where and ensures that any bulky plugs won't block any ports.

Belkin USB-C Hub for MacOS and Windows Laptops

If you've got a laptop with a USB-C port (and few others), you'll need a hub or a port replicator. It's important to get a good one, because there are a lot of cheap, barely usable models out there. Belkin's USB-C hubs are reliable and worry-free, plus they're as plug-and-play as they come. It takes one USB-C port and adds traditional USB ports, an SD card reader, a 4K-capable HDMI port, and a gigabit ethernet port for getting an ultra-fast data connection.

Londo Remote Control Organizer

Having a lot of technology in your house means having a lot of remote controls, and keeping track of them can be a headache, so consider a remote control organizer. This one from Londo comes in multiple colors and includes a suede lining to keep your remotes clean and free from scratches. Keep your controllers all in one place and never dig through your couch cushions again!

TP-Link Kasa Smart Power Strip

What's better than getting a bunch of smart plugs? An entire smart power strip. TP-Link's Kasa brand is one of the most popular, and you can add any device you want and control its power individually from the super-simple Kasa app. Whether you want to plug in lamps, Christmas lights, or your coffee maker, you can do it all simultaneously with the Kasa smart power strip.

More tech gifts to consider

• This smart meat thermometer is the perfect gift for the foodie or grill fanatic in your life; it lets you monitor cooking remotely and suggests optimal cooking times.
• This portable Bluetooth speaker lets you listen to music at a friend's house, on the beach, while hiking, along with other on-the-go applications — no need to carry around a bigger, heavier plug-in speaker.
• These AirPods Max noise-canceling headphones are a great work or study tool since they tune out distracting sounds in the background.
• This wireless charging station is compatible with Apple, Google and Samsung Galaxy tech.
• The Apple Watch Series 9 offers a GPS, cellular connectivity, health-and-wellness monitoring and more useful features.

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Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new Bob Beachem 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.

Still have last-minute holiday shopping to do? The clock is running out. With just a few days left until Christmas, any online shopping you want to do needs to be done ASAP if you want your gifts to arrive in time. But Amazon's super-fast shipping can still deliver presents before Christmas if you order certain items now, including the bestsellers on this list.

If you're looking for beauty items like the viral snail mucin, kitchen must-haves like a COSORI air fryer or other Amazon bestsellers, the ones below can still arrive before Christmas if you order them now — but note that you may need to choose "same day" or "fastest delivery" at checkout to be sure they'll get to you in time. Don't wait any longer or you may miss your chance to score these must-haves that are on a ton of people's wish lists this year.

The 50 best Christmas gift ideas 2023

Bestsellers in beauty

LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask

This leave-on lip mask uses murumuru seed, berry fruit complex and shea butter to deliver moisture and antioxidants to your lips while you sleep.

SOL DE JANEIRO Jet Set

Get SOL DE JANEIRO's popular skin care in a travel-friendly kit, including Brazilian 4 Play Body Wash, Brazilian Bum Bum Cream and Cheirosa 62 Perfume Mist.

COSRX Snail Mucin

Snail mucin is one of the most viral products of 2023, and this product, in particular, boasts over 60,000 positive Amazon reviews for helping buyers repair and rejuvenate their skin.

Bestsellers for the kitchen

KitchenAid 5 Ultra Power Speed Hand Mixer

If you don't have the counter space or budget for a stand mixer, this powerful five-speed hand mixer is the next best thing.

COSORI Air Fryer

COSORI's air fryer is a versatile nine-in-one tool that can air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, thaw, proof, reheat and keep warm.

Tupperware Heritage Collection 8 Cup Bowl with Starburst Lid 4 Pack

Tupperware's Heritage Collection is a nostalgic throwback. This four-pack of bowls features fun pastel colors and airtight, locking lids with vintage starburst designs.

Bestselling electronics

Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV

Amazon's 50-inch Fire TV is on sale right now for 33% off, making it a great deal ahead of the holidays.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

With Apple's latest AirPods, you get wireless and USB-C charging, active noise cancellation, adaptive audio and more features for clear sound wherever you go.

Beats Studio Buds

Beats Studio Buds are wireless and noise canceling, compatible with Apple and Android devices and feature a built-in microphone for versatility on the go.

Bestselling toys

BumBumz 4.5-inch RetroBumz Plush 5-Pack

This five-pack of BumBumz plush toys features Yin Yang Josh, Peace Symbol MEGS, Flower Jess, Lava Lamp Sara and Alien Matt.

Sesame Street Elmo Slide

Kids can sing and dance along with Elmo Slide, one of the must-have toys of this holiday season.

Bluey Hammerbarn Shopping Center Mega Set

Bluey-loving kids will play for hours with the Hammerbarn Shopping Center Mega Set, which has four levels to play in, plus a working elevator and cart return, lights and sounds.

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Christina Marfice 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.

So many Swifties, so many gifts

Taylor Swift has been making headlines long before dating Travis Kelce, star tight end of the Kansas City Chiefs, and has firmly established herself as one of her generation’s most talented artists. That’s why it’s no surprise that she has earned an army of fervent supporters who have affectionately dubbed themselves “Swifties.”

If you know a Taylor Swift super fan, shopping for them for their birthday or the upcoming holidays will be a breeze. We’ve gathered the best gift ideas for the most loyal Swifties, which include everything from slippers and posters to viral handbags and wallets. You’ll find several popular gifts for Swifties, such as posters with inspirational lyrics, table lamps, ornaments, apparel, jewelry and portraits.

The 50 best Christmas gift ideas of 2023

The best gift ideas for Swifties

Swifties are among the most passionate fans in the world, which is excellent news for shoppers who want to gift them something they’ll cherish for their birthday or the holidays. Shopping for Swifties isn’t nearly as challenging as you might think, and best of all, many gift ideas aren’t costly, and some make for excellent stocking stuffers.

You can certainly give a Swiftie a high-end gift, such as a handbag or other fashion accessories, but many Swifties will appreciate simple gifts with plenty of meaning and thought behind them. We’ve rounded up the best gift ideas for Swifties, whether they’re hardcore or casual fans.

DakinFu Unisex Meet Me at Midnight Slippers

Whether barefoot or wearing socks, these cozy slippers keep your feet warm and have nonslip rubber soles for smooth walking. The high-density memory sponges and soft sponge insoles provide superior comfort, support and shock absorption and prevent your floors from scratching.

Yostyle “Life Lessons from Taylor Swift” Poster

Taylor Swift is a talented and accomplished songwriter whose music has no shortage of sage-like advice. This poster features a giclee picture printed on high-quality thick canvas with fade-resistant ink and has 28 life lessons from Taylor Swift to help you get through whatever life throws at you.

Aupen Nirvana Bag

This bag offers a fashionable way to store your belongings while on the go and can be worn over the shoulder or on the crook of the arm. The braided handle, flat bottom and asymmetrical profile at the top give it a casual look, but the gold charm makes it stand out. Plus, it’s available in nine colors.

AmazerToys Taylor Gifts Table Lamp

You won’t find a more stylish table lamp than this one, which features a figure of a performing Taylor Swift and colors that can be adjusted with the included remote control or by touching the base. The LED lights make it an excellent decoration for any bedroom or living room, and there are several settings to play with, including strobe effect and brightness levels.

Expression Tees Swift 89 Unisex Adult Hoodie Sweatshirt

We love the cotton-candy-colored sweatshirt, but it also comes in 12 other flattering colors so that you can show off your love for Taylor Swift in the color of your choice. It features a large 89, representing Swift’s birth year and has ribbed cuffs and a front pouch pocket for a premium look and feel.

NYFashion101 Swiftie Fans Pendant Necklace

If you’re working with a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that you can gift a Swiftie this affordable pendant necklace. It’s a silver-tone, 2-millimeter, 18-inch link chain necklace that’s great as a costume accessory or daily wear for Swifties who want to show their support for the pop star.

Benbiyo Taylor Swift Croc Charms

You might know a hardcore Swiftie who thinks they own every Taylor Swift piece of merchandise, but you might be able to surprise them with these Croc charms. It includes 17 Taylor Swift charms that attach easily to Croc shoes and can make for an excellent stocking stuffer this upcoming holiday season.

Peppermint Pace “Last Great American Dynasty” Watercolor

We recommend this watercolor portrait for any Taylor Swift fan who loves everything artistic. It can be hung on the wall or propped up on a table as part of home décor and features a stunning cliffside Rhode Island house owned by Taylor Swift, which she talks about in her hit 2020 album, “Folklore.”

Ausvkai Canvas Tote Bag

This reusable tote bag is made of soft, eco-friendly materials and is roomy enough to store several personal items, such as a phone, tablet, laptop, wallet, clutch purse and books. The 11-inch handles make it suitable for wearing over the shoulder, and the canvas print features a design of 10 of Swift’s albums surrounded by flowers.

Taylor Swift: In This House, We Listen to Taylor’s Version Doormat

Any Swiftie who wants to spruce up their home with Taylor Swift-inspired décor will love this doormat. It’s made with 100% coir and custom-printed ink for a premium look and feel, and it has a funny slogan that reads, “In this house, we listen to Taylor’s Version.”

Foefaik Faux Fur Coat

Swifties familiar with Taylor Swift’s outfit that she wears while performing “Lavender Haze” from her acclaimed “Midnights” album can rock a faux fur coat that’s fun to wear at shows. It has a silky interior for a plush feel that makes it suitable for spring and fall wear, and it comes in 16 colors.

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

Ugly and hilarious sweaters to liven up your holiday mood

Christmas is a time of tradition. Every family has its own, such as when exactly presents get opened, whether a secret Santa system is used or a white elephant game is played and more. Then there are the common traditions like putting up decorations inside and out, pretending you like eggnog and, the most fun of all, attending or throwing an ugly Christmas sweater party.

There are many reasons why this tradition took off and has yet to come back down, but one of the biggest is the simple joy that comes from letting go of your appearance-based worries and having some silly, dumb fun with the people you care about most.

The 50 best Christmas gift ideas of 2023

Ugly Christmas sweater types

There are three main categories to consider when selecting your next ugly Christmas sweater.

Classic

The original style of ugly Christmas sweater is similar to something your grandma may have knit for you (meaning no offense!). It usually features stripes of repeating Christmas-related patterns, such as snowflakes, Christmas trees and reindeer. It may or may not have a main, central image such as Santa Claus or some other figure from Christmas lore.

Modern

Modern ugly Christmas sweaters usually feature a playful image or pun that takes center stage, with the rest of the sweater being one solid color. They can also stretch into a postmodern interpretation of the ugly Christmas sweater, such as being interactive, having working lights or even looking like the needles of a Christmas tree, complete with dangling ornaments.

One thing to note about modern ugly Christmas sweaters is that some of them can ape the classic style. These have all the hallmarks of classic sweaters, such as repeating imagery in stripes and possibly a main central figure, but they stray from typical Christmas imagery. For example, a modern version of the classic sweater could feature a popular image in pop culture as the main central figure. These are a great way to honor the past while keeping an eye on the present.

Adult

Adult ugly Christmas sweaters all fall under the modern umbrella, but nonetheless get their own category for one big reason: They would not be welcome in some settings, such as the workplace or an event with young children. Many adult ugly Christmas sweaters are somewhat risque, or flat-out openly sexual, in imagery or design. Others may have off-color jokes, foul language or reference something parents may not be ready to explain to younger children. 

This isn’t to say they’re bad; far from it. Wear the right adult ugly Christmas sweater in the right situation and you could be the talk of the evening (in a good way). But, if you’re not 100% certain your adult sweater would be appropriate, play it safe and go with something else.

Best ugly Christmas sweaters

Tipsy Elves Meowy Christmas Ugly Christmas Sweater

This ugly sweater is perfect for any cat lover, and since cats seem to own the internet, it’s a safe pick for going to a party where you may not know everyone. It comes in seven sizes.

Tipsy Elves Bristle Babe Ugly Christmas Sweater

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to be a Christmas tree, this is the sweater for you. Be cautious about how you move though; you don’t want to break any ornaments. It comes in eight sizes.

Tipsy Elves Go Big Or Go Home Ugly Christmas Sweater

This ugly sweater references a famous scene from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” an all-time great Christmas movie that plenty of people are sure to appreciate. Don’t worry, it also works without knowledge of the movie. It comes in eight sizes.

Tipsy Elves Happy Birthday Jesus Ugly Christmas Sweater

For many, Christmas is a religious holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus. This sweater plays into that while remaining inoffensive so as not to risk upsetting any devout members of the population you may come across. It comes in nine sizes.

Tipsy Elves Sweet Baby Jesus Ugly Christmas Sweater

This is another ugly sweater that plays into the religious history of the holiday, though it is a little bit riskier than the sweater above. Still, it should be OK to wear in most situations. It comes in nine sizes.

Tipsy Elves Caribrew Ugly Christmas Sweater

This is right on the cusp of being a classic ugly Christmas sweater, but the fact that the reindeer are drinking frosty mugs of what is most likely interpreted as beer pushes it into the modern category. It comes in nine sizes.

Tipsy Elves Santa Unicorn Ugly Christmas Sweater

One reason clothes can be ugly is that they use a mishmash of imagery that makes no collective sense. This sweater is the epitome of that failure, featuring Santa on a unicorn while they both fly through space. Makes zero sense; so, you know, perfect. It comes in nine sizes.

Tipsy Elves Naughty Or Nice Reversible Sequin Ugly Christmas Sweater

This fun sweater is perfect for someone who plans to start an evening with the family before heading out for the night with friends. Everyone will probably want to try changing the sequins, though. It comes in eight sizes.

Tipsy Elves Christmas Present Ugly Christmas Sweater

If you’ve ever wanted to take the “I am the gift” approach to showing up at a party, this sweater that makes you look like an actual wrapped gift is the way to do it. It’s even got a “To/From” tag. It comes in eight sizes.

Tipsy Elves Meowy Christmas Sleigh Light-Up Ugly Christmas Sweater

Another crack at the cat-loving side of the world, this one is a little heavier on the Christmas imagery since the cats are hauling Santa’s sleigh. It’s also got some lights in it to make sure you’re the center of attention. It comes in seven sizes.

Tipsy Elves Cat-itude Light-Up Ugly Christmas Sweater

The final cat-centric sweater of the day plays it much simpler than the other two since it simply features a cat at play. The working lights add some extra spice. It comes in eight sizes.

Tipsy Elves Drinking Game Ugly Christmas Sweater

This sweater is a drinking game, though it’s a risky one since you’re putting a target on yourself. The rules of the game are on the back of the sweater so you don’t even have to explain. It comes in nine sizes.

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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.

The moment Squishmallows fans have been waiting for is finally here. McDonald's is launching a Squishmallow's Happy Meal that includes one of 12 characters. These include some iconic and well-known Squishmallows, like Maui, Cam and Fifi, but there's one that McDonald's lovers are sure to want to get their hands on: Grimace! Yes, the purple McDonald's monster who's been having a series of viral moments this year is now a Squishmallow, and you can only find him in Happy Meals while supplies last.

"We're all about connecting our fans to culture, and Squishmallows are some of the hottest toys out there right now," Tariq Hassan, McDonald's USA chief marketing and customer experience officer, said in a news release. "This collaboration welcomes McDonald's and Squishmallow fans alike to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience with the first McDonald's Squishmallows Squad."

Here are the most popular toys of the 2023 holiday season

How to find Grimace and the other Squishmallows

The Squishmallows Happy Meals will be available at McDonald's locations nationwide beginning Dec. 26, and you'll want to act fast if you want to collect the characters — they'll only be available for a limited time, while supplies last. Since Squishmallows are so popular, they're likely to sell out at some (or maybe even most) locations.

In addition to iconic Squishmallows characters and Grimace, there will also be a mystery character to collect. And to add to the fun, each McDonald's Squishmallow toy will come with a unique playlist courtesy of Universal Music Group. Just scan the QR code on the Happy Meal box to access the playlist, which is curated based on each character's unique personality. We can't wait to find out what's on Grimace's playlist.

Squishmallows you can still buy that will arrive before Christmas

Squishmallows Original 12-inch Javari Lavender Groundhog

Javari is a "marketing guru," according to Squishmallows lore. This 12-inch version of the lavender groundhog is soft and huggable, made with ultra-soft, high-quality materials. And thanks to Amazon's one- and two-day shipping, in most of the U.S., you can still get him before Christmas.

Squishmallows Original 14-inch Selassi Green Platypus

Selassi, the green platypus, has a soft and fuzzy white belly, and she's also "the fastest fiddler around," according to Squishmallows lore. This 14-inch Squishmallow is larger for extra huggability, and you still have time to order it for a holiday gift this year.

Squishmallows FlipAMallows Original 12-inch Yellow Lemon and Lemonade

Letitia and Medina are FlipAMallows, which means they're reversible Squishmallows that you can flip inside out to reveal two different characters: a lemon and a cup of lemonade. It's two characters in one for twice the fun with this adorable Squishmallow.

lannery Penguin Plush Pillow

This super-soft penguin pillow isn't an official Squishmallow, but if you need a stand-in in time for holiday shopping, it'll do the trick. It's made of super-soft, high-quality materials similar to a real Squishmallow, so it's still cozy and huggable — and extremely cute.

Squishmallows Original Sanrio 14-inch Red Plaid My Melody Plush

This Squishmallow is the perfect gift for Hello Kitty fans, modeled after Kitty's friend My Melody. This 14-inch plush is perfect for hugging, snuggling or using as a pillow.

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