Tag: Commerce

35 Amazon Gifts For The Fitness Fanatic In Your Life

Post author By HealthyWay Staff Writer
Post date November 7, 2018

The trouble with buying for a true fitness fanatic is that they already have everything they need for an intense daily workout. Weights? Check. Fitbit? Check. Water bottle, post-workout protein shake, lots of sweaty towels? Check, check, and check.

We hunted through Amazon’s Sports and Fitness department for gifts that workout enthusiasts will love—but don’t have in their in-home weight rooms already. If you’re buying for an avid crossfitter, runner, or MMA hopeful, these gifts will fit the bill.

1. Give the gift of an amazing upper body workout.

It’s hard to get fit without a pull-up bar. But did you know that these devices are great for much more than simple pull-ups? Install this workout bar from Iron Gym in any conventional doorway for a total gym experience.

With one of these, the exercise-lover in your life can do dips, chin-ups, push-ups, and crunches, let alone your standard pull-up. Advanced features include three grip positions to work out different muscle groups, comfortable foam grips, and a totally nail/screw-free hanging system. Throw it in the closet in between uses.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Iron-Total-Upper-Body-Workout/dp/B07FMTY5SH”]Iron Gym Upper Body Workout Bar, $25.91 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. If you think crunches are hard, wait until you try them…upside down.

Abs are the holy grail of workouts. No matter how many sit-ups and crunches you do, it’s tough to flatten that stomach out, let alone show off sculpted musculature around your navel. The trick, it turns out, is to exercise with an inversion table.

This option from Innova isn’t the cheapest gift on the list, but for the exercise junkie eager to take the next step toward abs-ville, it’s a must-have device for the home gym. Give this as a gift; they’ll be impressed.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Innova-ITX9600-Inversion-Adjustable-Protective/dp/B003QCI4GG”]Innova ITX9600 Heavy Duty Inversion Table, $124.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. Encourage your fit friend to support those wrists during strength-training exercises.

Whether they’re lifting weights or just doing push-ups, your fitness-forward buddies need to take care of their wrists. Most upper-body strength-training exercises place a lot of strain on the humble joint, and an injury can throw off a fitness plan by months.

These wrist-wraps come complete with a thumb loop for maximum support. Choose the less-stiff option for most exercises; if the recipient plans to go in for some heavy lifting, though, give them the stiff model.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Rip-Toned-Wrist-Wraps-Professional/dp/B07CHDVCTG”]Rip Toned Wrist Wraps, $12.45 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. Workout enthusiasts can never have too many exercise balls.

Maybe your friend or loved one already has an exercise ball. But does she have one at home, one at the office, and one in the trunk for last-minute yoga in the park?

The whole line of URBNFit exercise balls boast a non-slip surface and anti-burst construction. They’re ideal for keeping the core engaged when sitting at the computer, core training, and stretching. Even better, they inflate quickly with an included, easy-to-use pump.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/URBNFit-Exercise-Multiple-Fitness-Stability/dp/B07BL6XCRJ”]URBNFit Exercise Balls, $9.99 to $26.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. Every athlete could use a foam roller, but few of them know that.

Everyone who works out needs to make time for rehab. Foam rollers are an inexpensive tool that can make a big difference on sore muscles. These rollers from AmazonBasics are incredibly simple, but they’re durable enough for years of use.

Recipients can use them for muscle rehab—particularly for the legs and back—or to complete core-training moves on the yoga mat. Amazon makes the product in seven colors, so you can pick the gift receiver’s favorite. They may not know they need one, but trust us: They do.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-High-Density-Roller-Speckled-Colors/dp/B018KFP8E4″]AmazonBasics Foam Roller, $9.89 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. When in doubt, add to their dumbbell collection.

Is there any exercise tool more versatile than a stack of dumbbells? Lightweight models add a bit of resistance training to any standard cardio workout. Keep inching up the pounds to veer into strict strength-training territory.

This set from AmazonBasics includes a pair of neoprene-covered dumbbells in your choice of weights, from just one pound up to a whopping 20 pounds. Maybe sneak a glance into the recipient’s workout room before choosing the right pair.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Neoprene-Dumbbells/dp/B073CT2YS5″]AmazonBasics Neoprene Dumbbells, $8.49 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. Blending protein shakes shouldn’t require an actual blender.

If you’ve watched a friend stir a post-workout protein shake with a spoon, this is the gift to give. They call it a BlenderBottle, which is a pretty fair description. It’s a 28 ounce–capacity drinking bottle with a wire whisk ball for easy mixing.

Just throw in some protein powder and liquid, and give it a shake. No more spoons, let alone full-on blenders. Plus, the unique cap is designed to stay open, so it won’t snap shut on you mid-gulp. Get one for yourself while you’re at it.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/BlenderBottle-Classic-Loop-Shaker-Bottle/dp/B07CNGR8TW”]BlenderBottle Classic Shaker Bottle, $12.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. We’ve all got that one friend without a FitBit. Here’s a great, cost-friendly alternative.

You’d have to be pretty close to someone to give them a name-brand FitBit. For more casual workout buddies, why not get most of the benefits, without dropping such a large sum? This fitness tracker from LETSCOM tracks essential vital signs and syncs with workout apps to collect data.

The LETSCOM fitness tracker sits comfortably on the wrist, where it tracks footsteps, calories, heart rate, sleep, and more. You can even set it to warn you when you’ve been sedentary for too long at a stretch. Oh, it also alerts you to social messages from your phone, plus it’s preloaded with 14 distinct exercise modes.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LETSCOM-Fitness-Activity-Waterproof-Pedometer/dp/B07GCM9N72″]LETSCOM Fitness Tracker HR, $29.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

9. Upgrade their FitBit with a stylish steel band.

Even if your workout partner already has a FitBit, chances are they’re still using the original rubber wristband. They can do better than that! A company called SWEES makes a line of colorful stainless steel replacement bands that look as great as they feel.

Choose from an astounding range of colors, from chromed silver to rose gold. The bands attach easily to FitBits and sit comfortably on the wrist. They’re woven with plenty of space, so sweat and airflow pass right on through. If you’re looking for a gift for the FitBit wearer with a broken band, here’s your best option.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/SWEES-Compatible-Stainless-Replacement-Wristband/dp/B01MQLTIAL”]SWEES Replacement Wristbands for FitBit, $8.49 to $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. This resistance band set is perfect for traveling.

When you’ve got limited carry-on space, every inch counts. Resistance bands allow for excellent strength training, and they don’t take up much space—plus, they’re easy on your joints. That’s a win-win-win. Yes, it’s three wins.

This set from Limm includes five 12-inch flexbands, along with a convenient travel case and an e-book. The bands are made with TPE-free natural latex, so they’re free from unpleasant odors, and they’re vesatile enough to fit into any workout regimen.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Limm-Resistance-Bands-Exercise-Loops/dp/B0136PR5TO”]Limm Exercise Band Set, $9.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. Even with a high-quality yoga mat, knee pain is pretty much unavoidable.

When “downward dog” becomes “downward dog, but, like, a dog with really bad knees,” this cushion comes to the rescue. It’s over a half inch in thickness, so it provides plenty of protection on hardwood floors and other unforgiving surfaces, and it can also function as an effective yoga mat extender in a pinch.

The material is high-density NBR foam, which is both comfortable and long lasing. It’s also lightweight, so it works well for travel, and it’s large enough to accommodate all body types.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/d/Yoga-Mats/SukhaMat-Yoga-Knee-Pad-Complements/B01CH25MWY”]SukhaMat Yoga Knee Pad Cushion, $18.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. To build a great home gym, start with the floor.

You know what professional gyms have that their home-based counterparts usually don’t? Exercise mats. A bit of cushion between you and the concrete can improve comfort and safety during all sorts of workouts, from lifting weights to simple crunches.

This protective flooring comes in puzzle-piece-edged squares. Assemble multiple tiles to create a soft mat that fits the space perfectly. In this particular set, you’ll find six two-foot-square tiles and 12 border pieces. A gift like this will win you a lot of points.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/ProSource-Exercise-Interlocking-Protective-Equipment/dp/B00KHT4L1I”]ProSource Puzzle Exercise Mat, $20.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. If you’ve got a cardio-fiend on your gift list, here’s something for them.

No matter your fitness goals, cardio is crucial, and it’s hard to beat jumping rope to get that blood pumping. Speed ropes have been a staple of boxing gyms for a long time, but now pretty much everyone is getting into the habit.

This speed rope from Survival and Cross has a few features that recommend it over simpler products. It includes steel ball bearings for extra speed. It also provides extra hardware for when you inevitably jump it to pieces. All in all, this is a strong contender for a basic gym staple.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Cross-Jump-Rope-International/dp/B00LGXE5NS”]Survival and Cross Jump Rope, $10 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Help your gym buddies get organized.

Trainers will tell you that consistency is key to actually making changes in your body. Still, some of us have a hard time keeping track of where we are on a day-to-day basis. Was yesterday leg day? Or were you supposed to throw in some extra stretches?

Here’s a fitness log book that will keep anyone on the straight and narrow path to their personal fitness goals. It tracks exercises, reps, weight, targeted muscle group, and cardio. There’s even a space to add nutrition notes. Sure, a lot of people use apps to stick to a workout plan. For those who don’t, though, this gift could make the difference between success and backsliding.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Workout-Book-Fitness-Journal-Illustrations/dp/B073CGGGQ3″]Workout Log Book & Fitness Journal, $14.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. We could all use a little motivation every now and then.

That’s especially true when you’re cruising toward the gym on your way home from a long, tiring day at work. It’d be so easy to roll right by; you could be eating ice cream and watching Netflix in moments.

It’s times like these that a motivational wristband can really make a difference. This pack of 10 silicone bracelets has your back. “Success is a state of mind,” they remind you. “Believe anything is possible.” If you have a friend who’s starting to skip gym dates, these could be an excellent gift. On the other hand, they could come across as sort of passive aggressive, so, as always, gift wisely.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/10-pack-Success-Focus-Believe-Inspirational/dp/B077CZMMF2″]Motivational Silicone Rubber Wristbands, Pack of 10, $17.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. Who needs a stair stepper when you’ve got a single step?

Sure, those stair-stepping machines at your local gym are awesome, but someone’s always using the best one, and you end up with the machine that keeps jumping forward two steps. No? Just us?

Well, KLB Sports offers a perfectly fine elevated platform at a great price, that’ll get the recipient working their lower body or incorporating into flexibility workouts. It’s an ideal gift since it’s the type of thing you might not buy for yourself, but once you’ve got one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. The kit includes four risers, four additional rubber feet, and free instructional materials.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/KLB-Sport-Adjustable-Workout-Exercise/dp/B01G6T8ZUK”]KLB Sports 31″ Adjustable Workout Aerobic Stepper, $37.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. Keep your heart rate up throughout the workday.

If you have trouble finding the time for cardio, this novel elliptical should make your life much easier. Store it under your desk; when you’re ready to burn a few calories, start pedaling. It uses Bluetooth to sync with Apple Healthkit, Fitbit, or Cubii Pro’s proprietary mobile app, and you can choose from eight resistance levels to change the intensity of your workouts.

Thanks to whisper-quiet operation, you won’t annoy family members or co-workers, and it assembles in seconds. The only downside: Once your friend opens this, they won’t have any excuse for missing their workouts.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Cubii-Elliptical-Bluetooth-Adjustable-Resistance/dp/B0189VJD1I/”]Cubii Pro Under-Desk Elliptical, $349 from Amazon[/link-button]

18. Make it easy to bulk up on protein.

Say you’ve got a friend who’s on an intense strength-training program. They’re going to need a lot of protein, and Cheerios just won’t cut it. Try giving them a box of RXBars instead. These protein-based meals are made entirely of whole ingredients, so they’re an additive-free experience.

They even print the ingredients on the front of the label. Each bar is packed with egg whites, nuts, and dates for a guilt-free blast of powerful protein. It’s just what muscles need to grow. People say they taste alright, too.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/RXBAR-Whole-Protein-Variety-Flavors/dp/B018H3LFJG”]RXBars, Pack of 12, $27.50 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. To add some variety to a tired workout, just gamify it.

Working out with the same crew and the same tired routine every day can get old. Boredom is a sure ticket to slack. Help the folks on your gift list put the game back in their workout with a set of fitness dice that randomize moves for some serious exercise.

They call Strength Stack 52 a “game,” but it’s more like a contest of endurance. These exercises were designed to burn fat and bulk up muscle, and that’s just what they do. Roll the dice, follow the directions, and get fit with friends.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Stack-52-Bodyweight-Instructions-Included/dp/B0164I82O2″]Strength Stack 52 Sweat Dice, $37.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. Pump some iron…er, water.

This novel water bottle holds 2.2 liters of water. It’s functional as an adjustable dumbbell, but it’s also just a cool-looking water bottle; pack this in your gym bag, and it’s sure to spark a few conversations.

It shows that you’re aware of the recipient’s love of exercise while still functioning as a sort of gag gift. Per the Amazon reviews, it’s a high-quality water bottle, so it’s actually usable for its intended purpose, and it might compel someone to start hydrating properly during their workouts. Made with eco-friendly materials.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Dumbbell-Eco-Friendly-Exercise-Outdoors-Transparent/dp/B0725GDCBV”]Dumbbell-Shaped Water Bottle, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. Of course, gifts don’t have to be functional.

This chic charm bracelet certainly fits the bill. The zinc alloy charms include a couple of dumbells—including one that’s bending under its own weight because, you know, pumping iron is awesome—and a “strong is beautiful” message.

Each bracelet comes in a gift box, so you can easily wrap it and deliver it to your favorite iron fiend. It’s expandable, so for an extra touch, pick up a cheap personalized charm.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/beautiful-Dumbbell-bracelet-weightlifting-Exercise/dp/B01MQ22WG6″]Strong Is Beautiful Charm Bracelet, $13.50 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. This fruit-infuser water bottle provides an easy way to stay hydrated.

We have trouble drinking enough water after workouts, but infused water makes it easier to stay hydrated and healthy; that’s why this bottle is so handy. Put any fruit or vegetable into the center capsule, add water, then wait (or simply shake a few times for a lighter flavor). It’s made with BPA-free Tritan plastic, which is shatterproof and dishwasher safe.

The manufacturer provides a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee along with a lifetime guarantee on the materials. It’s great for runners, hikers, or gymrats, and the included recipe book provides everything you need to get started.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Organics-Fruit-Infuser-Bottle-Tritan/dp/B01NCTFTPV”]LA Organics Fruit Infuser Water Bottle, $8.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. Speaking of hydration…

Let’s say you want to drink a gallon of water each day. You start in the morning with a glass, then grab a cup at work, then…well, you lose track. Hey, it happens to the best of us.

This single-gallon water bottle lets you track your intake in a simple intuitive way. The side of the container includes motivating messages, along with timestamps to guide you throughout the day. Made with BPA-free plastic, it’s available in several colors, all of which use the same odor-free material.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Gallon-Hydration-Tracker-Time-Throughout-Hydrated/dp/B07C4WLRPL/”]BuildLife Motivational Water Bottle, $13.78 to $17.96 from Amazon[/link-button]

24. Say goodbye to that dusty old gym bag.

For years, our gym bag was an old backpack from high school. It worked well enough, but it built up odors over time, and we always had trouble stuffing our shoes into it without getting dirt all over our clothes. A high-quality gym bag really makes those trips to the gym more enjoyable, and this is one of the best dedicated duffels we’ve seen.

Made with waterproof, scratch-resistant material, it has several zippered pockets and a dedicated shoe compartment. There’s a wet-dry separation layer, which helps to keep everything sanitary, and the manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/INOXTO-Fitness-Compartment-Waterproof-Travel/dp/B073F7VR87″]INOXTO Fitness Bag with Shoe Compartment, $26.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. Turn those tough HIIT workouts into a (sort of) fun game.

Okay, when you’re pushing yourself to new levels of fitness, “fun” might not be the right word, but this card game really works. We’ve written about the HIIT workout before, but in case you missed it, here’s the gist: By running through high-intensity intervals, you burn more fat and build more muscle without spending hours at the gym.

Developed by military fitness expert Sergeant Volkin, this game provides a simple way to jump into the HIIT lifestyle. Pull out the cards, roll the dice, and do the exercises; for extra guidance, scan the cards with a smartphone for a brief instructional video. It’s simple, effective, and ideal for getting varied, intense workouts in just a few minutes without any additional equipment.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Stack-52-HIIT-Instructions-Bodyweight/dp/B00UBZ1BNE”]Stack 52 HIIT Interval Workout Game, $29.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. For a hardcore cardio workout, nothing beats boxing.

And no, you don’t need to get punched in the face to enjoy a good boxing-based workout. A few minutes with a heavybag can burn a ton of calories while building valuable self-defense skills. Just be sure to bring your own gloves—while many boxing gyms have loaner gloves, they smell like a dead penguin. You can quote us on that.

Everlast is the most famous name in boxing equipment for good reason; their products last forever, and they’re built with high-quality features that keep athletes safe. These training gloves feature a ThumbLok, which maintains correct thumb positioning to prevent injury, along with full padding on the front and back of the wrist. They’re available in several sizes; generally speaking, heavier gloves are a better choice for inexperienced boxers, since they provide more padding.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Everlast-1200014-Style-Training-Gloves/dp/B000JF4HNC”]Everlast Pro Style Training Gloves, $19.19 and Up from Amazon[/link-button]

27. Of course, gloves aren’t useful without something to hit.

This freestanding punching bag is heavy—we suppose that’s where the name “heavy bag” comes from—but it has plenty of high-end features for boxing enthusiasts. Fill the base with sand or water, and it weighs an impressive 250 pounds; that means that you can’t really knock it over unless you’re packing a George Foreman punch, and it rebounds quickly after each hit for optimal resistance.

It’s also adjustable, with seven height settings in three-inch increments. Granted, this isn’t the most practical gift, but if you know someone who’s getting into boxing or looking for a more intense cardio workout, it’s a fantastic pickup at a great price.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Century-Original-Wavemaster-Training-Blue/dp/B000EZYT3K”]Century Wavemaster Freestanding Heavy Bag, $139.89 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. You can never have enough headbands.

When you’re in the middle of an extreme workout, long hair can quickly become a liability. These sports headbands are designed to maintain a secure fit while wicking away moisture, and they come in a 4-pack which is fortunate since these things can easily wind up misplaced if you’re a regular gym-goer.

Wear a neutral color for a nondescript look, or go for the more vibrant ones if you want a little pop in your getup. Either way, the sporty design looks stylish, and the silicone bars prevent slipping, even if you’re working up a serious sweat.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LUCKYGO-Headbands-Absorbent-Non-slip-Sweatbands/dp/B07BVZ96ZD”]LUCKYGO 4-Pack Sweatbands, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. Work those legs with this remarkably affordable mini-trampoline.

Here’s a gift that will get plenty of use right out of the box. After all, everyone loves a trampoline—especially when you don’t have to worry about accidentally flying into your neighbor’s yard.

Thirty tension bands provide stability during the most intense jumping workouts. Capable of holding weights of up to 250 pounds, it’s an incredible value at under $30, and the manufacturer offers three online workout videos to help you get started (we’d just check out YouTube; there are plenty of great trampoline workout tutorials for beginners). It weighs less than 14 pounds, so it’s great for traveling, and it folds up for easy storage.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Stamina-Trampoline-Workouts-Included-Supports/dp/B000JC2ZHA”]Stamina 36-Inch Folding Trampoline, $29.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. This is the perfect gym bag for seriously buff workout buffs.

It’s a complete workout set with everything a seasoned weightlifter needs to hit the gym. The kit includes a large gym bag, a leather weighlifting belt, a steel-chained dip belt, and padded wrist straps. The high-quality belts are a major upgrade from the (slightly smelly) belts you’d find at the gym, and they’re backed by a lifetime guarantee.

This makes an awesome gift for bodybuilders, but it’s also a fine choice for anyone who’s just getting into strength training.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Iron-Ambitions-Ultimate-Weightlifting-Bundle/dp/B07BFPBS9F”]Iron Ambition Ultimate Weighlifting Bundle, $68.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

31. Wrist pain can quickly derail a workout.

Wrist wraps help to prevent pain by keeping the wrists in the correct position, limiting unnecessary movement (and therefore, unnecessary damage). They’re essential gear, but most people don’t keep them on hand (literally).

Rogue Fitness’s straps are designed to fit wrists of all sizes, and they’re made from an easy-to-clean material—that’s important, as you’d know if you’d ever smelled a pair of wrist straps after a hard workout. Hey, the less said about that, the better. In any case, these are some of the most affordable straps we could find on Amazon, and they don’t skimp on the quality. They’re available in multiple colors, so feel free to accessorize.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Rogue-Fitness-Available-Multiple-Colors/dp/B01MY2OOKZ”]Rogue Fitness Wrist Straps, $19.75 to $30.49 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. Enjoy more flexibility (and less joint pain) with this mobility tape.

A good workout routine includes a few high-intensity exercises, but if you’ve got painful joints, that’s not always an option. RockFloss is useful stuff, despite its slightly goofy name. It’s a high-quality compression tape that uses compression to prevent fascial shearing—basically, it keeps blood flowing around muscles and joints to improve flexibility and limit pain.

It’s useful for just about any painful part of your body, including shoulders, wrists, knees, elbows, ankles, and hips, although the manufaturer notes that you should never use the tape on your head or neck (and if you did, you’d probably get a few weird looks at the gym). Price varies by size, so if you’re buying as a gift, be sure to check the sizing before ordering.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Rocktape-RockFloss-Compression-Recovery-Mobility/dp/B074Z1S5HG”]Rocktape RockFloss Tack Mobility Band, $17.99 and Up from Amazon[/link-button]

33. Cool off with these next-generation gym towels.

Made with eco-friendly materials, these soft mesh towels are a lifesaver. Dip them in water, wring them out, then use them to wipe off; they absorb sweat while leaving your skin feeling cool and refreshed. While they’re designed for high-intensity exercise, they’re also great for treating headaches and fevers, and each towel comes in a waterproof plastic pouch for easy storage.

Each lightweight towel is free from chemicals and odors, and they’re machine washable (just use the gentle cycle). Choose from multiple colors.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lsoua-Absorbent-Cooling-Instant-Relief/dp/B073RDJYXP”]Lsoua Super-Absorbent Cooling Towel, $4.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. Night runs can be exhilarating, but proper safety gear is absolutely essential.

At the very minimum, runners should hit the road with an extra light source. These ankle lights are an excellent choice, as they help to light the path while making an athlete more visible to oncoming vehicles.

They’re fairly lightweight, and an included battery provides hours of visible light for each LED. Attach them to your leg, arm, or any other convenient spot—they’re also easy to attach to a dog collar for night walks, for instance—and enjoy a safer workout. If you know a jogger or runner who works a day job, these make a spectacular stocking stuffer.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/iotrevor-fitness-Fashionable-Running-Armbands/dp/B01NAWARCN”]Iotrevor Reflective Running Lights, Set of Two, $14.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. Add a bit of resistance to any cardio workout.

These ankle weights can dramatically alter the intensity of any exercise while strengthening your legs (or arms, since they double as wrist weights). The inner side has a breathable material that prevents heat from building up, while an adjustable strap on the outside accommodates most ankles easily.

They’re color coded by weight, so be sure to check out all of the options before ordering; the blue weights provide two pounds of added resistance.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/REEHUT-Adjustable-Exercise-Gymnastics-Aerobics/dp/B01M2CZT4N”]REEHUT Ankle/Wrist Weights, $22.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

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Fresh Fashion Lifestyle

30 Outfit Mistakes That Make You Look Messy And How To Fix Them

Post author By HealthyWay Staff Writer
Post date October 11, 2018

When you absolutely need to look your best, you have to pay attention to the little things.
It’s always the little things—not dramatic changes—that really make all the difference. No matter your body type, profession, personal taste, or preference, it is possible to look and feel good without having to change your entire style, much less who you are at your core.
With that said, certain types of faux pas can be especially damaging. Avoid becoming a victim of these sneaky saboteurs by following these tips.

1. Leaving Bits of Lint and Animal Fur on Your Clothes

People notice details, and a single piece of lint can stand out, especially if it doesn’t match your clothing.

Rather than color-coordinating your lint, we’d recommend getting rid of it entirely. Lint rollers are amazing, but if you don’t have one handy, some tape will do just fine.
Better yet, a more eco-friendly option is this self-cleaning fur and lint remover brush. Remove lint and hair from your clothes with the brush, then put the brush back into the case to remove the hair.

It eliminates paper waste, and it’s affordable enough that you can buy several: one for your home, one for your car, and one for your desk at work.

2. See-through Fabrics

To be clear: Thin, gauzy skirts can be a great addition to your wardrobe. Do yourself a favor, though, and make sure that they don’t go totally transparent when you end up backlit.
Some fabrics will do their best to trick you. They look totally opaque in the dim light of morning. By the time you’re headed out for lunch, though, the light shines right through them, treating all of your coworkers to a glimpse of what’s underneath.
If you’re totally in love with a thin skirt, be sure to wear leggings underneath. You want to preserve a little mystery. And if you’ve got a sheer shirt you really love, just wear a tank top underneath.

These affordable Hanes tanks come in an array of colors, making them a comfy and versatile undershirt option for any see-through blouse you just can’t put back in the closet. Be sure to wash them carefully, though, as they are 100 percent cotton.

3. Wearing Clothes With Tiny Rips, Frays, and Other Minor Damage

These types of issues sneak up on you. You’ll wear the same jeans every day, and you won’t notice as they start to fray. Or you’ll ignore the missing button on your favorite shirt simply because you’ve worn it so many times.

Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, and that includes clothes. While most rips, holes, or missing buttons can be easily repaired with a needle and thread (consider making a small investment in a sewing kit if you don’t have one already), they can also go from a minor flaw to a deal-breaker quickly. A small tear becomes a gaping hole fast!

A tailor may be able to help you with the trickier hems and holes. Cute patches are another option for covering holes beyond your sewing capabilities. Eventually, however, clothes do just become too worn out to wear—and although it may be hard to let go, just think of the new items you can replace these with.

4. Not Breaking out the Iron

Ironing clothes takes a lot of time, and in busy schedules, that step often gets left out. Still, wrinkled clothes can throw off your entire image. Make sure you have a good iron and ironing board for when you need to make a good, smooth impression.

It’s also a good idea to invest in some wrinkle-removing spray like the Downy Wrinkle Release Spray—which multi-tasks as a static remover and odor eliminator, too. It’s not exactly an ironing replacement, as tougher fabrics will still require some heat, but it’s perfect for last-minute touch-ups or travel. Just spray it on, shake it out, and go confidently in the direction of your wrinkle-free dreams.

5. Rolling up Your Sleeves Incorrectly

When the seasons change, you might find yourself rolling up your sleeves to stay cool. It’s actually quite a fashionable look, provided that you take the time to do a double-roll.

That technique uses two simple folds, leaving your cuffs looking clean and precise. For a simple yet polished business-casual look, pair a white button-up shirt, cuffs nicely folded, with dark jeans and boots—it’s a classic look, regardless of gender.
Just make sure to pay attention to those cuffs. A good sleeve fold adds class, but the common method of rolling them up all willy-nilly leaves you looking messy and unkempt.

6. Too Many Accessories

Accessories are essential to your look. A single, simple necklace can make a great statement piece, for instance, or a scarf can pull your entire outfit together.

The ideal accessory will be eye catching and (this is important) appropriate for the occasion. Where you’ll get into trouble is if you start piling on the gaudy accessories to cover up a simple outfit. Don’t worry about being too plain; that’s a much better option than going overboard and risking looking tacky.

7. Worn-out Clothing

A great way to make an awful first impression is to wear a shirt that was white in a former life but is now a weird shade of gray-yellow. It’s inevitable that the whitest of whites start to discolor, and once they do, it’s time to either put them in the discard pile or do something about them.
Prevent your whites from becoming former versions of themselves by making whites a separate load. Mixing them with colors can cause them to become dingy and gray.

And if you’ve just got pesky stains on your favorite white tee, try out this natural stain remover that promises to show results—or your money back!

8. Wearing Hair Ties as Bracelets

You’re not a teenager anymore (well, actually, we don’t know—you might be, in which case, disregard that sentence). While you’ve been wearing hair ties on your wrists for years, it’s never really been okay.

Hair tie bracelets look tacky, but there is hope for those of you with a habit of wearing hair ties on your wrist. These hair tie bracelets offer a sleek-looking design that your hair tie fits around, making it seem like an intentional cute accessory—that just happens to hold your hair tie.

9. Pants That Are Too Long

There are many things in life that would classify as being a drag, but your pants shouldn’t be one of them. Hemlines that flirt with the floor are just fine, but you’ve gone too far when they make contact. Along with carrying around dirt and other grime, long pants can become damaged from their trip.
Prevent this fashion faux pas by visiting the tailor. Bring the shoes you like to wear with them the most along so the tailor has an idea of how much length to remove.

If you’re really attached to some long pants, though, and you don’t want to change them, consider wearing taller shoes. These affordable heels come in every color so you can get a pair to match any outfit; this way, even your longest pants won’t drag on the ground.

10. Wearing Athletic Shoes in Non-athletic Situations

Sure, your tennis shoes are comfortable, but unless you’re on a tennis court, they look out of place. Athletic shoes stick out like a sore thumb and can make you look like a teenager (and not in a good way).
This isn’t a hard and fast rule, however. There is grey area between what is an athletic shoe and what is a cute shoe. Tennis shoes often look messy unless you’re working out in them, but certain sneakers have an air of class and style.

If you’re attached to wearing athletic shoes but don’t want to look like you just left the gym, Adidas sneakers are a classic.

11. While We’re at It: Not Cleaning Your Shoes

You wouldn’t leave the house in mud-covered clothing, so why would you walk outside with dirty shoes? A pair of less-than-clean kicks can ruin your outfit faster than you can click your heels together.
A quick swipe when you walk through the door can prevent buildup on heels and boots, but your sneakers are often a different story. Their material can make stains difficult to erase. Fortunately, you can usually rid shoes of unsightly marks by tossing them in the washer.

According to USAToday.com, you’ll need to sprinkle the insides of each sneaker with 3 tablespoons of baking soda and leave them overnight. Shake the soda out in the morning.
Remove the laces from your sneakers and place them in a pillowcase to stop them from getting tangled in the wash. Wipe as much dirt and debris from your shoes as you can with a scrubbing brush, then toss the laces and the shoes in the washer. Protect your shoes and your washer by throwing four to six towels in, as well. This will keep your shoes protected and stop them from banging against the washing machine.
Use liquid detergent and wash the shoes in a cold, delicate cycle. Allow the shoes to air-dry once they are clean. Avoid putting them in the dryer, as its heat can damage your sneakers.

If you’re constantly getting your shoes dirty, it might be a good idea to invest in a shoe cleaning kit as well—this one includes cleaner, a brush, and a towel.

12. Wearing Clothes That Don’t Fit Correctly

Nothing can kill your style quite as quickly as an oversized shirt or too-tight pants. Even if the clothes feel comfortable, if they don’t fit, don’t wear them.
However, falling in love with a piece of clothing that doesn’t exactly fit is a common tragedy. You can likely fix it, however, by taking the garment to a tailor.

Do remember that different clothing manufacturers size their garments quite differently. If you’re a size 2 at one store, you might be a size 6 somewhere else, so trust the fit, not the tag. Always take the time to try on clothes before you buy them.

If you have a dress or blouse that is too big but just so cute, you could accessorize it with a fashion belt around the waist for a more fitted, put-together look.

13. That Applies to the Shoes, Too

Shoes that are too large or too tight create an interesting effect, and not in a good way. Oversized shoes make you look like you’ve got a bit role in the upcoming IT remake, whereas small shoes can make your feet look like they’re planning a prison break.

Again, try shoes on before you buy them, and if you’re not sure if you’re wearing the right size, get a second opinion before you head somewhere important.
Raw, red skin on the heels and feet from too big or too small shoes isn’t comfortable or cute, either, so if you’ve got shoes that rub and blister, try these heel cushion adhesive inserts.

14. Wearing White Clothing That Isn’t White Anymore

Alas, even the whitest whites will eventually start to turn a pale yellow color. The good news is that you can usually restore your whites with a simple bleach bath, and if you’ve got an aversion to bleach, baking soda or hydrogen peroxide can work wonders.

Whatever you use to whiten your clothes, use it consistently. A t-shirt with a vaguely straw-colored hue doesn’t have the same look as a crisp white top.

15. Not Taking Care of Your Nails

A manicure can turn nails from cute to cringe-worthy in a matter of minutes and all it takes is a single chip in the polish. Although keeping a perfect manicure for more than a week or two is just about impossible, you can increase its lifespan by following these simple steps.
First, apply an even and thin base coat. Allow the layer to completely dry, which usually takes at least two minutes before you put on another coat. Use a gel-finish top coat or an at-home LED lamp to help your nails dry.
If you want a professional manicure, ask them to skip the top coat and apply the gel finishing coat when you get home.

And don’t forget to keep your cuticles and fingers looking healthy—dry, cracked skin is as unsightly as it is uncomfortable. We like Burt’s Bees Almond & Milk Hand Cream, and this cute little jar is perfect to stick in your bag or keep at your desk.

16. Carrying a Massive Bag

Sure, it’s great to have a bag that can carry your laptop, makeup kit, car keys, and body cream while still leaving enough room for a full-grown chihuahua, but a big bag can easily throw off the rest of your outfit. After all, a bag is an accessory.

Opt for a smaller bag for job interviews and other important events, and if you need a big bag to hold your laptop when you’re headed to the office, there are plenty of affordable (and adorable!) computer bag options that aren’t too bulky.

This floral print one from DACHEE is a perfectly sleek and subtle pop of color.

17. Missing a Belt Loop (and Other Minor Mistakes)

Pay attention to the little things. You can have a perfectly put together outfit, only to sabotage yourself by missing a belt loop or leaving a visible zipper.
We’re not saying that every inch of your outfit has to be absolutely perfect, but do a quick ocular pat down of yourself before you leave the house; if you don’t have a decent-sized mirror, now’s the time to get one.

Make sure that you’re not making any obvious mistakes.

18. Making Too Many Adjustments to Your Outfit

On the other hand, once you leave the house, try to stop worrying. Don’t constantly pick at your clothes or mess with your sleeves; guys, leave the tie alone. Fidgeting with your clothing is a sure way to look messy, even if there’s nothing actually wrong with your look.

If you really can’t stop fidgeting, recognize that you’re a little stressed out. Take a moment to collect yourself, squeeze a tennis ball, or do whatever else you have to do to stop picking your outfit apart.

If you can’t stop stressing about the way you look, a compact mirror you can carry in your bag or keep at your desk at work might settle your nerves a bit—but beware, the magnifying ones might get a little too up-close and personal. These small mirrors from Amazon come it several chic patterns.

19. Clothes That Are Pilling

It happens to the best of ‘em. A few times into wearing, you notice that certain spots on your garment are a little rougher than others. The next thing you know, a bunch of tiny little balls join the party and take up space on those rough patches, which are most likely in the armpit or thigh areas. These clothing-crashers are called pills and are formed when fabric rubs together.
Blended fabrics are usually the most susceptible to becoming pilling victims, says Good Housekeeping magazine. Fiber blends that contain three or more fabrics have a higher incidence of pilling, especially those that contain both natural and synthetic fibers.

To prevent damage, turn your garment inside out before washing. Doing so prevents the fabric from rubbing against other clothes in the wash, stopping the pills before they wreak havoc.
The gold standard for pill-prone garments is hand-washing. Placing your washer on the gentle or delicate setting is second best. Air-drying your clothing can also help to keep it safe. Once everything is washed and dried, store or hang your garments inside out.

If you’ve got a favorite sweater that’s already pilling, however, you can remove most of the fuzz with a simple trick. First, rub a pumice stone over the fabric to loosen up the little fuzz balls, then run a lint roller over the fabric to remove them.

20. Not Getting Your Favorite Pair of Shoes Repaired

We get it; you love your shoes, even if the soles are fading away and the leather is scuffed. The good news is that a talented cobbler can perform those much-needed repairs, restoring your favorite kicks to their former glory.

The bad news is that the longer you wait, the more you’ll pay—and the worse you’ll look. If you’re going to keep that old pair of shoes, take care of them.

If you’ve got a favorite pair of shoes that are coming unattached to the sole, you may not need to go to a cobbler just yet—invest in a good bottle of shoe glue to keep on hand for minor fixes.

21. For Guys: Unkempt Facial Hair

The beard is back, folks. Facial hair hasn’t been this fashionable since the Old West. With a great beard comes great responsibility, though, and too many of us are forgetting that beard maintenance takes work. A neat, masculine face-mane is one thing. Grizzly Adams is another.

To keep from looking sloppy, make sure that you keep your beard neat and trimmed. That means shaving your neck, and probably your cheeks as well. And don’t underestimate the power of a good beard oil—moisturizing facial hair and the skin underneath is essential for a healthy-looking beard. This beard care kit comes with 100 percent natural and organic beard oil, beard wax, a brush, and scissors for trimming.

When trimming and shaving, remember: There should be clear lines demarcating “beard” and “non-beard.” Otherwise, you’re not just Brooklyn hip. You’re mountain-man messy.

22. For Women: Visible Bra Straps

There’s a war going down in our culture today, and internet comments threads are the battlefields. That war is over the appropriateness of visible bra straps.
“Adult women wear bras, and people should deal with it,” say the pro-bra-strap ladies who just don’t care.

“Bra straps are never, ever appropriate in a professional setting,” say the human resource managers.
Given the controversy, it’s safest to keep your straps covered up. You might not look like you’re making a point; you might just look like you got dressed in the dark. This is not to take a side in the debate.

We’re just saying that the smart money is always on covering undergarments. These clips and straps work great, or go with a strapless bra.

23. Wearing Oversized Clothes to Hide Your Figure

Oversized clothing is “in” right now, but don’t play into the trend just to hide your figure when you’re feeling bloated or self-conscious. Tuck in those oversized tops or add a belt; make sure that your figure’s visible.

You rock, and there’s no reason to sink into your clothing. If you want to go a few sizes up, have a plan and make an effort to balance your outfit’s proportions.

24. Excessively Long Sleeves

Long sleeves can easily make you look like a little kid. Unfortunately, if you’ve got short arms, a shirt might flatter the rest of your figure perfectly but leave your arms looking like flopping noodles.

If you don’t want to roll up, go ahead and give your tailor a call—and if you don’t have a tailor, get one. For a few bucks, you can get a perfectly crafted look, provided that you’re on a tailor’s good side, and you’ll never go back to straight off-the-rack clothes again. That applies to both men and women (and guys, having a tailor will instantly put you way ahead of your competition).

But if you’ve got short arms and don’t want to cough up the extra money for a tailor, you’ve still got options. A three-fourth sleeve shirt does wonders to make the arms appear longer. Pair this one with leggings or jeggings.

25. Going Really Retro (Without Any Sort of Twist)

We’re fine with retro looks, to be absolutely clear. You just need to have some sort of a modern update, or you’ll end up looking like you got stranded in a 1980s (or earlier!) department store.
Modern accessories can provide a great, easy update. Your shoes and bottoms can also be modernized to complement a vintage top.

Just take it easy on the nostalgic items, and you’ll be fine; otherwise, you’ll look like you didn’t spend enough time thinking this through.

26. Taking the Term “Boyfriend Blazer” Too Literally

There are some great boyfriend blazers in the boutiques these days, but you can’t literally lift a boyfriend’s jacket and expect to look chic. What the designers call a “boyfriend blazer” is actually cut to strike a very feminine figure. Blazers designed for men, meanwhile, will make you look like David Byrne during his big-suit era.

No matter how romantic you think it is to snuggle in your boyfriend’s clothes, doing so likely gives you a sloppy appearance. If you like the idea of donning garments that have that boyfriend-type style, look for boyfriend-cut clothes. Despite the name, this type of clothing is cut for feminine figures, and looks amazing.

27. Showing up With Wet Hair

Nothing says “I overslept” like going out with wet hair. You get a pass if it’s raining, but otherwise, put that blow dryer to work. You want your look to be complete before you show up at an important work function or, God forbid, a hot date.

Wet hair sends the message that you were rushing to get out of the house, which suggests general sloppiness. We get it, though—you totally were rushing out of the house.

28. Leggings as Pants

This fashion faux pas has taken the nation by storm. We blame the rise of the yoga pant.

Leggings can be a key ingredient in a super cute outfit, but don’t mistake them for fully formed bottoms in themselves. Throw on a short skirt or wear a dress if your shirt is belly-grazing; the key is to keep your backside from hitting people in the face. That’s just sloppy (even if it’s incredibly comfortable).

Leggings can be paired with longer shirts or tunics for a more polished look if you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to the comfort factor of wearing leggings as pants. Just make sure your bum is covered.

29. Day-old Eye Makeup

It can be tempting to leave yesterday’s mascara and eyeliner on rather than going through the arduous process of removing and re-applying. Don’t give into temptation; people can totally tell, and you’re really not saving that much time in the long run.

On day two, mascara gets clumpy. Old eyeliner fades unevenly, leaving you looking like a Picasso painting. There’s only one way to keep your eye-makeup game going strong, and that’s to clean and re-apply daily. Sorry to break the bad news.

To make it easy on yourself, keep a pack of makeup removing wipes in your nightstand, so you never have an excuse to sleep in your eye makeup. That way, you won’t even be tempted to go to work the next morning in your day-old liner and mascara.

30. Smudges on Your Glasses

A cute pair of frames is great, but you’ll spoil the effect if you let lenses get smudged and greasy.

Keep a microfiber cloth handy at all times, and be sure to rub down your glasses before an important encounter. You definitely want to look your best if you’re getting close enough for someone to see your glasses in such detail.

Also, consider investing in a lens cleaning kit with spray and a cloth to get off tougher smudges—plus, it can be used on your phone and laptop screens, too.

Tags Commerce, social

Lifestyle

These Are The Shower Habits That You Need To Ditch

Post author By Megan Senseney
Post date October 11, 2018

Showering is—and should be—a daily habit for most of us, and everyone has their own routine. Some people can’t live without washing their hair each day while others chose to skip a day or two, and the differences continue on from there.
However, did you know that some of the most common shower habits might not actually be that healthy? Believe it or not, some of the things you do every day while taking a shower could be affecting you in ways you’ve never thought of.
Check out this list to see if your shower habits are doing you more harm than good.

1. Washing Your Face

Without a doubt, it’s easier and less messy to wash your face when you’re already in the shower. However, despite the convenience, it’s actually not good for your face. The water that you shower in will typically be much hotter than what you’d wash with at the sink, and the high temperature can make your skin dry out very quickly.
Those with skin conditions such as acne or rosacea may also find that washing their face with hot water can cause excessive redness and irritation—it could even burst a blood vessel in your face if you wash too aggressively. Use a gentle cleanser and avoid washing your face in the shower, particularly if you have acne-prone skin or rosacea.

2. Not Washing Your Feet

You might be thinking that your feet make contact with plenty of water while you’re in the shower, so there’s no real reason to actually bend down and give them a proper wash. You’d be wrong, though.
Even if you’re not prone to smelly feet, think about how sweaty your feet can get throughout the day. Not only that, but if you’re known to walk around the house or outdoors without socks or shoes, you never know what you might be picking up along the way.
There’s no excuse for just letting the soap suds run down to your toes anymore—imagine what you’re bringing into your bed every night without giving those feet a good wash.

3. Not Washing or Replacing Your Loofah Regularly

Be honest, how long has the same loofah been hanging in your shower? Months? YEARS? As it turns out, that can be terrible for your health. This video demonstrates why:

Consider treating yourself to a new sponge or loofah the next time you’re out, or create a cute and convenient place to hang the one you have for air drying.

4. Using a Soap Dish

Yes, that built-in soap dish is there forever, but using it for its intended purpose actually isn’t that good of an idea. The majority of people don’t use bars of soap these days but, for those who do, be aware that leaving a bar of soap in one spot could be encouraging bacteria to grow on it—bacteria that you’re then going to spread over your entire body the next time you lather up.
Gross.

If you have reasons for resisting the switch to liquid body wash, try finding a wire soap dish or one that has holes in the bottom so any remaining water can drain away once you’re out of the shower.

5. Using Scented Soaps

Yes, those soaps that make your bathroom smell like a tropical rainforest or a freshly-made vanilla cupcake do transport you to a place of olfactory luxury while sudsing up, but those very fragrances could be doing a number on your skin at the same time.
Anyone who notices their skin seems particularly irritated after a shower should look to their soap as the first culprit. Fragrances can irritate sensitive skin very easily, so it’s best to use something unscented to keep your skin in the best shape. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the scent of your soap mixing with the scent of your perfume to create “questionable” smells.

6. Showering in Hard Water

Some people may not even know how to tell if their water is considered hard, but figuring it out and taking steps to adjust it could save your hair and skin from a lot of damage.

When you're used to soft water in Scotland, and go for your first shower down in Essex with hard water: pic.twitter.com/bxdgFLv5ft

— Sarah Mackie (@lumi_1984) April 8, 2018

Hard water is defined by its high concentration of minerals like magnesium and calcium, which can end up making your skin break out or cause a layer of buildup on your hair. Those with dyed hair may even find that hard water strips the color out of their strands, or at least causes their tint to fade a little quicker.
If you’re unable to add a water softener to your shower, try incorporating a clarifying shampoo into your routine to remove any buildup caused by those pesky minerals.

7. Avoiding Cold Showers

Most people wouldn’t even dream of standing in cold water for more than a second, let alone taking an entire shower in water that’s anything less than steaming hot.
Still, cold water showers can actually be really beneficial for your skin and hair, and you only need 30 seconds under a cold stream to see a difference. A quick blast of cold water is said to improve your immune function, [linkbuilder id=”3967″ text=”increase your metabolism”], and increase the amount of stress you can tolerate.

In addition to speeding up your metabolism, a study done in 2009 suggests that regularly taking a cold shower could even help you lose weight over time.

8. Using Old Razors

For most of us, old razors aren’t something we thoughtfully replace on a regular basis. Instead, they just sit in the shower until we finally cave and get a new one. Razors, whether you’re buying replacement heads or the kind that are entirely disposable, are surprisingly expensive—so why throw one out after a certain period of time if it still seems to work?
Well, just because a razor is shaving off your unwanted hairs doesn’t mean it’s doing so effectively. If you notice that your skin gets red and inflamed after you shave, it’s because the blades are dull and it’s time for a replacement.

9. Leaving Your Razor in the Shower

Remember how leaving your wet bar of soap in your dingy old soap dish makes it a breeding ground for bacteria? The same thing goes for your razor. There are plenty of nooks and crannies in your razor that make perfect spots for bacteria to hide, and the problem will only get worse when the razor is sitting in a warm, wet environment.
If you don’t actually want to store your razor outside of the shower, at least make sure that you hang it up when you’re done using it so it can air dry.

10. Over Exfoliating

Giving your skin a gentle scrub every now and then is a good idea, but doing so every day could actually be causing damage. For anyone who doesn’t know, your skin actually exfoliates itself by renewing every 27 days or so.
Anyone who chooses to exfoliate their skin every day is aggressively going after fresh skin cells, which can make your skin red and irritated as a result. It’s best to let some dead cells build up on the surface of your skin before reaching for your favorite scrub so that, you know, there’s actually something there worth exfoliating.

11. Washing Your Hair Daily

If you notice that your hair always looks damaged and feels dry no matter what you do, it’s likely that your shower water is too hot and you’re washing your hair way too often. Unless you’re someone who likes to work out every single day, you really only need to wash your hair a few times a week at most—and those with curly or extremely coarse hair should try to cut that down to once a week.

For anyone who says that their hair is too oily to go without a daily wash, it could be the daily washing that’s causing that greasy sheen. Washing too often dries out your scalp, which makes it produce more oil to compensate. If you want to start shampooing less often, try using dry shampoo on your roots every other day. One of our favorites is Living Proof Dry Shampoo.

12. Skipping Your Shower Post-Workout

If you like to work out late at night or in the morning before you head off to work, you may decide that you’re too tired or pressed for time to squeeze a shower in. However, working up a sweat can leave bacteria on your skin that will get trapped against you if you choose not to rinse it off afterwards.
https://twitter.com/MichaelaW1111/status/997914381294952453
This could lead to a skin infection or, at the very least, some minor irritation or redness. Not to mention that you’d be going to bed or heading to work a sweaty, stinky mess.
Remember, just because you can’t smell you doesn’t mean others can’t smell you. At very least, take some time to wipe that sweat off with a clean washcloth or hand towel, or, better yet, just change your clothes. Throw some body wipes in your gym bag for a quick refresh on-the-go.

13. Reusing Dirty Towels

The logic seems solid: If you only use your towel when your body’s clean, how could your towel possibly get dirty?
This isn’t exactly the case, though. Yes, it’s alright to use your towel two to three times before you finally give it a wash, but that’s only if you hang it up to air dry after every single use. Just like your loofah, dead skin cells can cling to your towel and, when you don’t let it dry properly, there’s a big risk for bacterial growth.
Using the same towel for a week or more at a time could mean putting yourself at risk for bacterial skin infections—plus, they can eventually start to smell pretty bad.

14. Rubbing Towels on Your Skin and Hair

We can guess with relative confidence that you reach for your towel right after getting done with your shower, but there are a couple of different ways that people towel off.
Some choose to just wrap their towel around themselves and wait to air dry while doing other things—putting in contacts, applying moisturizer, brushing their teeth—while others immediately start to wipe that water away.

As it turns out, rubbing a towel against your skin isn’t the best thing for it, and dermatologists actually recommend that you use a patting motion to dry your skin. For anyone with long hair who likes to wrap their towel around their head like a cocoon, know that doing so could be damaging your locks, as well. Instead, use a microfiber hair turban and a wet brush to protect your hair from damage.

15. Skipping the Moisturizer

It can be pretty tempting to go lounge around after you’ve gotten out of the shower, and it’s easy to get sucked into things like reading a book or watching television before you finally start to get ready. However, you’re doing your skin a disservice if you don’t apply some moisturizer right when you get out of the shower.
Moisturizer is absorbed just a little bit better when your skin is nice and warm, and you’ll also want to replenish any moisture your skin lost from being in that hot water. Also, just like you shouldn’t be rubbing a towel on your body, don’t scour your face when drying it, either.

16. Bathing in a Dirty Tub

Alright, so a bath definitely isn’t the same as a shower, but we have a reminder for those of you out there that take them.
Clean your bathtub every once in a while!
It’s a chore that few like doing, but it’s an important one. If you’re going to be sitting in a tub full of water for any period of time, you want to make sure that there’s nothing mixing in with your soak that you haven’t added intentionally.
This is especially true if you share a bathroom with other people—you might like your roommates, but you don’t really know what they could’ve tracked into the tub.

Tags 50006579, Commerce, HD, hemingway

In Season Lifestyle

The Complete Guide To Safely Trick-Or-Treating On Halloween

Post author By HealthyWay Staff Writer
Post date October 8, 2018

For kids, Halloween is an exciting time. According to one source, about 36.1 million children go trick-or-treating every year—and that’s in the United States alone. It’s our favorite holiday of the year, outside of National Meow Like a Pirate Day, and we certainly don’t want to scare anyone away from the seasonal activities.
However, if you’re a parent, your experience with Halloween likely involves a lot of worrying. While 93 percent of households consider their neighborhoods to be safe (link opens a PDF), it’s hard to shake the feeling that the holiday is at least slightly dangerous (particularly when you see hundreds of zombies and ghouls roaming your streets).

The good news is that with proper planning, trick-or-treating is a perfectly safe and fun activity. It’s a good way to get exercise, make memories, and most importantly, get massive amounts of candy from your unsuspecting neighbors.
Here are a few tips for a happy and healthy Halloween, along with a few (hopefully) helpful product suggestions to help you plan for the season.

1. Make sure that your children go out wearing reflective gear.

We’d love to tell you that every driver exercises a little extra caution on Halloween night, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. According to the National Safety Council, children are more than twice as likely to be fatally struck by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
It’s not too difficult to determine why that’s the case: On Halloween, hundreds of kids walk the streets in the dusk, and drivers have a harder time seeing in low-light conditions. Before your kids head out—hopefully with an adult or an older teenager in tow—teach them to make contact with drivers before crossing the road.

ICYMI: We’re helping children be seen on #Halloween by lending them reflective vests! Details: http://t.co/FmEPHvc43G pic.twitter.com/AggiFilfDn

— MD State Highway Adm (@MDSHA) October 22, 2014

Make sure that they’re not hitting the streets glued to their phones or other electronic devices, which cause an unnecessary distraction (while also limiting them from getting the true Halloween experience, in our opinion). Remind them that every car is a potential threat, even if it’s parked; many injuries occur when kids dart between parked cars right as drivers are starting to move.
And while this might be somewhat obvious, reflective materials are absolutely essential, even if your kids won’t be trick-or-treating in complete darkness. One study found that reflective materials are most effective when applied to pedestrians’ joints, as opposed to their torsos, but really, the more reflectivity you can build into a costume, the better.

Your kids probably won’t want to wear reflective vests, but fortunately, that’s not necessary. You can get a cheap roll of reflective tape (Gear Aid’s reflective tape, available here on Amazon, is our choice), apply a few strips, and improve the safety of just about any article of clothing.
You might even find ways to use the tape as part of the costume—easy enough if your kid’s going as the Tin Man, slightly more difficult if they’re going as a ghost.

2. Try to incorporate lighter colors into your kid’s costumes.

We know, we know—Halloween’s all about scary stuff, and nobody wants to be a bright-yellow zombie. However, if you can push your kids toward brighter, lighter costumes, you’ll make them significantly more visible on dark streets, limiting their chances of an accident. Choose bright materials and accessories. Even something like a simple LED light bracelet can improve safety dramatically.

If that’s not ideal, you can look for other ways to bring a little light to your child’s trick-or-treating gear. A glow-in-the-dark candy bucket (here’s a great one with a removable LED) is a great example; they allow you to easily identify your child from a distance, and kids will love the spooky glow. What’s the downside, other than all that extra room for sugar?
Make sure to test the product in question before the big day. Some “reflective” items don’t really reflect that much light, so a quick test run will allow you to accurately gauge the product’s effectiveness (while giving your kid an excuse to put on their costume).

#Halloween Safety Tip – Ensure your children are visible when crossing the street. Use reflective tap, glow sticks or flashlight.

— Sgt. Todd Ringle (@ISPEvansville) October 30, 2016

To perform a simple test, have your kid stand in a dark room and shine a decent flashlight past them. You’ll be surprised at how high-quality reflective materials can catch your eye—and you’ll have some additional peace of mind when Halloween rolls around.

3. Keep your trick-or-treater’s eyes clear.

We realize that this may take some of the fun out of Halloween, but masks impede your child’s vision, making an accidental trip much more likely. While older kids can safely wear masks, younger kids should avoid them.
The good news is that you really don’t need masks. Face paint is more fun, and it’s often less expensive. This kit off Amazon uses lab-tested, paraben-free ingredients, and it’s gentle on sensitive skin.

Even so, you should always test costume makeup in a small area before applying it to sensitive skin. If you notice any signs of irritation, move to your backup plan. Remember, some products can become more irritating over time, so make sure to remove all makeup and body paint before your child goes to sleep.
If that sounds like a ton of work, you can always choose a costume that leaves your kid’s face exposed; we’ve got rundowns of some excellent options for kids 6 to 12 here, along with a list of toddler costumes here.

If you do decide to use a mask, make sure that your child can see, particularly when it comes to their peripheral vision. Make sure that the mask fits your child’s face, and remind them that it’s okay to flip the mask up while walking (not running) from house to house.
Don’t be afraid to cut the eye holes a bit wider if necessary. While it might feel like you’re ruining the costume, you might actually be saving Halloween.

4. Watch out for costumes with pointy accessories, even if they seem fairly blunt.

“There are sharp objects in particular in pirate costumes or swords for Star Wars costumes,” Marie Crandall, MD, told News 4 regarding dangerous costume components. “Another big risk is eye injuries, and you don’t want to wear an eye patch after Halloween.”
For that matter, you don’t really want to wear an eye patch during Halloween, since it can seriously inhibit depth perception, but we get her point: Sharp accessories are a serious no-no, even if they make a costume look more authentic.

For what it’s worth, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that costume accessories “should be short, soft, and flexible.” Foam products certainly fit into that description; plastics, not so much.
Foam swords like these are a great and inexpensive option. You could also allow your kid to bring out the accessories for the pre-trick-or-treating photos, but leave them at home when they actually hit the streets.

5. Get high-quality flashlights capable of lighting the ground immediately in front of your child.

Unfortunately, glow sticks don’t provide enough light to walk safely from house to house, so while all of your neighbors’ kids might use them, you’ll want something more effective.
Every trick-or-treater should have a working flashlight to avoid accidental trips and falls. You certainly don’t want to spend Halloween night nursing skinned knees and comforting crying toddlers—not when you could spend that time sneaking bites of their candy stash.

Avoid the cheap Halloween-themed flashlights you find at big-box stores unless the packaging shows an actual light rating. Anything less than 35–60 lumens probably won’t light the way too effectively once you’re actually outdoors (although your mileage will vary, depending on the amount of natural light and other factors). Look for a flashlight with multiple light settings and a fairly wide lumen range, and you’ll be in good shape. We recommend the Outlight A100, a high-quality flashlight with a water-resistant design and a budget-friendly price tag.
With that said, any camping flashlight should do the job nicely. Just be sure to check your batteries before you leave the house—and if you’re trick-or-treating with multiple kids, make sure that they’ve each got their own light source.

6. Choose safe, protective shoes.

Costume shoes usually don’t work for safe trick-or-treating, especially past dusk. They’re often too thin to properly protect your kids’ feet, and because sizing ranges greatly from one manufacturer to the next, they can cause blisters—not what you’d want at the end of a long night with a tired toddler.
Really, any high-quality shoes will work, provided that they aren’t heels. Shinmax offers an affordable set of LED shoes with rechargeable lights, which will bring some much-needed illumination to Halloween night. You can get them on Amazon here, but be aware that the sizing runs a little large.

If you’ve already got some decent shoes—and believe us, we understand the importance of keeping a kid’s footwear budget under control—consider upgrading with some LED safety lights (here’s a cheap pair for under $20). They’re not totally necessary if you’ve already picked up reflective tape and a decent flashlight, but they’ll make the holiday a bit safer, and kids love them.
What Halloween-loving kid wouldn’t want glowing shoes? Heck, we’re adults, and we kind of want a pair for ourselves.

7. Don’t forget to keep your home’s walkways lit.

Kids will be walking up your pathway all night (well, if you’re lucky, anyway), so stop them from stumbling by planting a few solar lights.
While there’s no shortage of Halloween-themed pathway lights, most are cheaply made and nearly useless at night. We prefer the look of Voona solar lights, which use AA Ni-MH batteries to store a powerful charge.

They’re slightly expensive, but they are well worth the investment as they’re one of the few items on this list that doesn’t immediately lose its value on the first day of November.
Alternately, you could pick up a smart light kit, which opens up plenty of fun possibilities on Halloween; keep them bright while your trick-or-treating victims—er, guests—walk to your house, then turn them bright red before you swing open the door.
https://twitter.com/JoanESheehan/status/1046914758014849024
While you’re at it, consider putting up a few temporary signs warning drivers to take it slow. We’re big fans of this orange pop-up safety cone, which is portable, lightweight, and ideal for this type of application. Granted, some teenagers might snatch it, but the risk is worth it considering you’ll improve your neighborhood’s safety during trick-or-treating.

8. By all means, check candy, but realize that it’s probably not a major issue.

Check your kids’ candy, looking for any pieces that appear re-wrapped. Tell your kids to refuse homemade treats unless they’re from trusted neighbors or family members, and set a few ground rules regarding the amount of candy they’re allowed to eat at once.
Those are some pretty common-sense steps, but we should note that Halloween poisonings don’t really happen except in extremely isolated cases. Snopes.com, which investigates urban legends, says there are no documented cases in which intentionally poisoned candy was handed out randomly to trick-or-treaters—not one, not ever.

Of course, that doesn’t mean that Halloween candy is healthy. If you’re trying to rid your household of sugar (or if you’re simply looking to limit the amount of sweets your neighborhood hands out), consider giving kids toys, temporary tattoos, and stickers instead. Novelty assortment packs are pretty cheap, and they can give you some peace of mind—at least until the older kids start TP-ing your house.
One more note regarding candy safety: Some objects (we’re looking at you, spider rings) can be serious choking hazards for younger children. While you’re skimming through their treat bags (and taking your share of the dreaded Parental Candy Tax), be sure to separate those items from the rest of the stash.

9. If your kids are heading out alone, you’ll need to take some extra precautions.

Should you let your 10-year-old head out onto the streets alone? That’s a difficult question, and the answer varies from parent to parent. Some experts believe that solo trick-or-treating is an important part of childhood.
“When you say it’s all too dangerous because your children don’t know how to cross the street, and all your neighbors are awful … then you are giving up on your neighborhood and your child,” notes Lenore Skenazy, the author of the controversial book Free-Range Kids.
If you’re considering the question, you probably know what’s right for your family. Ideally, your kid won’t be truly “alone,” but heading out with friends, so a logical first step is to make sure that all of their parents are aware of the situation.

Next, talk over acceptable trick-or-treat routes and set ground rules for talking with strangers. Make sure that your child knows what to do if they get lost, and make sure they’ve got a way to contact you if necessary. If they’re old enough to head out alone, they’re old enough to hold onto a phone—at least for one night, anyway.
Tell them to only visit well-lit houses, and to never enter anyone’s house for candy (unless it’s a well-known, trusted friend—we’d even recommend giving them a specific list of houses that meet those criteria). Many homes set out candles and other luminaries during Halloween; tell kids to avoid standing near these, especially if they’re wearing flammable materials.

10. Finally, make sure to keep your other Halloween activities as safe as possible.

If you’re carving jack-o-lanterns, allow your kids to help during the planning stages, but don’t let younger kids anywhere near your carving tools. That’s just asking for trouble.
“The most common accidents associated with pumpkin carving are stab wounds to the fingers and palm,” Stuart J. Elkowitz, MD, assistant clinical professor at NYU Langone Medical Center in the division of hand surgery, tells Consumer Reports.
Sure, that’s obvious, but doesn’t it sound much more official when an actual doctor says it?

Older kids can help out, but to stay safe, consider investing in some cut-resistant gloves. Wislife offers an affordable (and highly reviewed) pair that meets EN388 cutting resistance standards; get them here.
Note that these gloves don’t protect in all circumstances, so you’ll still want to guide your kids through their first pumpkin carvings. This is a good opportunity to teach the basics of knife safety, too, by the way: Always cut away from yourself, don’t apply unnecessary pressure, and keep your knives clean and sharp.
While we’re on the subject, specialized pumpkin carving kits can make the process much safer (and improve the quality of the finished product). This kit, for example, includes two saws, a poker, and a scoop, and the saws’ serrated edges will provide much more precise cuts than a standard kitchen knife.

You can even find professional-level pumpkin carving kits, which come with a variety of high-quality saws. Sure, it might be overkill, but high-quality kits will last for years, while the cheaper options are only good for one or two gourds.
Ultimately, Halloween doesn’t have to be a frightening time for parents (well, not frightening in a bad way, anyways). Use common sense, communicate with your kids, and make sure you’re prepared. When All Hallow’s Eve rolls around, you’ll be able to relax with a nice glass of apple cider while the kids enjoy the holiday.

Tags Commerce, social

Healthy Relationships Wellbeing

My Colleague Is Having An Affair—Should I Expose It?

Post author By Cindy Lamothe
Post date October 5, 2018

“I was depleted by their dynamics and by being triangulated into their lies.”
Sheri remembers the toll keeping secrets took on her back in 2012. At the time, the NYC resident says she was collaborating on a therapeutic theater project with two colleagues who were having an affair.
Both had led her to believe that the wife was privy to the nature of their relationship, but it soon became apparent to Sheri that wasn’t the case. She recalls one gathering at the husband’s house; she noticed his wife sitting alone in the corner of a massive living room while everyone was in the backyard and kitchen.

“It was bizarre and sad,” Sheri tells HealthyWay. “While [the wife] understood [my colleagues] worked together for many years, her affect and isolation suggested she may have suspected more was happening but was misled to believe it was a platonic relationship.”

Between a Rock and a Hard Place

The science of infidelity is still murky territory and the statistics, well, bleak. Take for instance, this stat from private investigating agency Trustify, showing that 36 percent of men and women admit to having an affair with a co-worker (and this doesn’t account for those who don’t own up to the fact).
Since cheating includes a spectrum of behaviors, there’s no way to pinpoint an exact number of how many people are unfaithful, but what we do know for sure is that divorce rates in the U.S. are staggeringly high. According to the American Psychological Association, 40 to 50 percent of marriages end in divorce.

While cheating has a negative emotional impact on all involved, one lesser talked about effect is the one on bystanders: mainly, the witnesses to these clandestine relationships.
“It puts the third party in an untenable position,” says NYC family therapist, Kathryn Smerling, PhD, who specializes in creating healthy and meaningful relationships. “If she admits to seeing it, it could destroy her relationship with these people, and it makes her the secret keeper, and that’s a horrible position to have.”

We asked Sheri what she did after finding out.

Sheri says that the clandestine way in which her colleagues concealed the truth of their relationship around certain people reinforced to her their lack of transparency.
After weighing her options, she decided to speak with her colleagues about her concerns, but she says this did not go over well.
“I was characterized as irrational and difficult for insisting on honesty.”

After this eventful meeting, Sheri says she felt disoriented from the gaslighting and absence of any sort of ownership or remorse. But confiding in her colleagues didn’t lead to any kind of meaningful resolution. Instead, her refusal to be complicit in their dishonesty only spurred anger, she says, and this led to a major falling out.
Her colleagues’ toxic behavior afterward took more than an emotional toll, Sheri says. She began experiencing physical symptoms from the stress soon after. “My back went out, and I evidenced signs of metabolic stress for a while.”

Eventually, Sheri says it became clear she needed to end the friendship and the collaboration they had developed. “I was so disillusioned by the turn of events that I took leave from this project that I poured my heart and soul into.”
“I did consider exposing the affair,” she admits. “But I so desperately wanted to remove myself from the partnership that I feared the reprisal and further involvement.”

Damaging Secrets

“Knowing another’s secret, in general, is uncomfortable,” says Laura Dabney, MD, a marriage psychiatrist from Virginia. “If you have the added impact of this secret possibly negatively impacting the workplace, it’s a double whammy.”
The experience places an undue burden on the person who knows, she explains, and this often manifests in the way of anxiety and stress, including symptoms such as insomnia, irritability, avoidance behavior, chronic headaches, and worrying.

“It can be unsettling,” says Juli Fraga, PsyD, a relationship therapist based in San Francisco, because the person can feel like they’re holding a secret, and it can make interactions with colleagues more than uncomfortable. She notes that depending on the person’s personal background, they can also experience longer-term effects.
“If their parents divorced because of an affair,” she explains, “it could reopen childhood wounds and trauma.” Additionally, Fraga asserts that it might bring into question what trust means in relationships and cause the person to question how seemingly good people can do dishonest things. Depending on the person’s spiritual or religious beliefs, it can be that much more emotionally distressing.

If we were already conflicted and uncertain about our willingness to love and be loved, the witnessing of an affair can have a long-term effect on our decision to (or not to) enter intimate relationships, stresses Mark B. Borg, Jr., an NYC clinical psychologist and author of the forthcoming book Relationship Sanity: Creating and Maintaining Healthy Relationships.
“If it is a person or couple that we admire and respect, it can [also] impact how we feel not only about them and their coupleship, but how we feel about relationship itself.”

Pause and give yourself a moment to grieve.

Too often, the witness thinks only about what to do with the information, says Borg, and they completely overlook their own shock, hurt, and disappointment over being exposed to such uncomfortable, perhaps shocking, and shattering information.

After learning of her colleagues’ transgression, Sheri tells us she felt duplicitous and hypocritical colluding in the betrayal. But the loss felt two-fold—she was mourning the end of the friendship and her creative vision. “I was caught up in trying to protect my work from people who I erroneously believed were upholding and contributing to my personal mission to bring therapeutic theater to disenfranchised populations.”
“It will weigh on you,” Borg asserts, “and it is likely that you will need to grieve over losing the image that you had of this person before you found out.”

Define your boundaries ASAP.

Whether it’s narrowing all exchanges to cordial pleasantries or blocking the person’s number for good, it’s best to get distance from someone who’s having an affair, says Dabney. “They are consciously choosing to deal with a problem by doing something destructive and cruel, and it’s only a matter of time before the witness will get hurt as well.”

Conversely, if a friend starts to tell you about an affair, she insists it’s best to hold up a hand and let them know that’s information they should be talking about with their partner or therapist, and you would appreciate not being put in that awkward position.
Smerling also wants us to keep in mind that becoming overly involved in other people’s affairs is a clear signal that we’re blurring the lines between what we’re responsible for and what we are not.

Carefully weigh your options.

So…should you mind your own business? Expose it?
Below are options to considers, though “there isn’t a right or wrong answer,” Fraga asserts. “It depends on each person’s judgment.”

Say nothing.

In the case of a close friend who is being cheated on, Fraga says we should ask ourselves this one guiding question: If my friend knew my partner was having an affair and didn’t tell me, how might I feel? “I’d also say that it’s not [your] responsibility to do anything unless you feel compelled to do so.”

Along the same vein, Borg says exposing an affair to a partner will most certainly backfire in some way, and it’s more than likely that the affair-haver and the cheated-on other will both use you as a target of their hurt, their fear, and their rage—a “shoot the messenger” scenario. “It creates emotional displacement,” he explains. “If we assume that affairs happen for a reason, it’s possible that the reason will be convoluted, lost, or misdirected if you intervene.”
“The issue here might have less to do with how or if you expose the person’s infidelity,” Borg adds, and more about how it impacts your relationship with that person (as well as the person who is being cheated on).

And in the case of a virtual stranger (e.g., a college professor) experts agree that exposing the affair would be even more inappropriate unless someone was in imminent physical danger.

Talk to both parties about what you witnessed and let them know how you feel.

In general, it’s healthiest to never speak about anyone’s problems or issues with anyone else, says Dabney. “However, an affair in the workplace can be destructive, so this may be an exception.” If possible, opt for a better way of dealing with your experience rather than exposing it by offering to discuss what you’ve witnessed and felt with that person.

But this can be tricky, notes Smerling, as approaching the couple and letting them know you’re uncomfortable could jeopardize your job (depending on the hierarchy).

Talk to human resources or your boss for guidance.

Your best bet is staying far from the chaos, but going up the ladder could be necessary if the affair is creating a toxic work environment. While opting to tell HR can be risky business since they exist primarily to protect the company, expressing your concerns openly can provide a paper trail in the event of a colleague’s retaliation.

“If your colleagues are at a higher level, then it is best to stay out of it because you run the risk of being the ‘fall guy,’” says Dabney. However, if the colleagues are of a lower level or if the couple is mixed levels (one higher than the other), she recommends letting the person above them know. But Dabney offers one caveat when telling: It’s best to be brief and stick to the known facts and not draw the conclusion of “affair.”

Seek advice from a therapist or trusted friend.

The consensus among experts is to seek advice if what you know is affecting your day-to-day.
“It’s not something you can handle on your own,” says Smerling. “You need to get help from a professional who can guide you into how to compartmentalize the feelings you have by knowing about the affair.”

Likewise, Borg believes making sure that you get whatever support, care, and love that you need after experiencing the way that someone else’s crisis was acted out is a good first step.

Lessons Learned

In the aftermath of the falling out, Sheri says the betrayal impacted her ability to re-engage meaningfully with the theater project she had worked so hard to develop.
“The affair was a glaring reflection of the duplicity I refused to see,” she says. “It awakened me to how my desire to manifest my creative vision blinded me to exercising better judgment.”

It’s now been six years after everything went down, and Sheri tells us she’s in a better place. Satirizing the whole experience in a play has allowed her to channel her feelings and find catharsis and healing.
We asked how being witness to an affair has changed her.
“I became much more guarded and meticulous as to who I would continue to involve myself with,” she says. “It led to my doing a complete overhaul of my relationships.”

Tags Commerce, social

Happy Home Lifestyle

The Broke Girl’s Guide To Decorating A Home You Actually Want To Live In

Post author By Sara Lindberg
Post date October 3, 2018

Let’s face it: Decorating your living space can be a real drag, especially if you’re low on money. Sure, you can call on your Pinterest friends to lend a hand with design and shopping, but what if their chic style is way out of your budget? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In fact, just think of us as your frugal friends with a flair for fun (and alliteration).
If you’re on a tight budget and want to add some pizzazz to your home, you need a comprehensive list of budget-friendly decor items, and forget about building your own. Unless you have an endless amount of time to look around for the latest and greatest products to makeover your space, you may give up before you even get started. Well, here’s your solution.
We’ve put together a list of 38 budget-friendly home decor products that you can order from the comfort of your own home, right from Amazon. Whether you’re looking to lighten up a room with sleek new curtains, free up some floor space with a corner unit, or just give one of your walls a color pop, these stylish, practical products are for you.

1. LED lights can brighten up every space in your home.

You don’t have to wait for a holiday to hang decorative lights. These LED light strings from Twinkle Star add a touch of fancy festivity to any room in your home. Hang them behind a sheer curtain for a subtle look, or string them throughout the space to liven up a not-so-exciting room.

You can control the rhythm of the lights to match your mood. There are eight different modes to choose from, including sequential, slow fade, twinkle/flash, and steady-on.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Twinkle-Window-Curtain-String-Light/dp/B01LLSNG1E”]Twinkle Star 300 LED Window Curtain String Lights, $15.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. This set of key hooks will help keep you organized.

Pick up this wall-mounted key holder from Comfify, and forget about losing your keys. This decorative rack features four hooks and spells out the word “keys,” so you won’t be confused.

But it’s not just your keys that will find a nice home on this rack. You can also hang lanyards, light coats, hats, pet leashes, and any other small item you might want to grab when you head out the door.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Key-Holder-Keys-Decorative-AL-1507-20/dp/B011MRJHC6″]Wall-Mounted Key Holder, $11.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. Farmhouse design meets modern-day style.

Bring the farmhouse look into your home with these attractive rustic shelving units. This set of three Rustic Farmhouse Floating Box Shelves looks amazing on any wall.

The shelves come in a variety of shapes, including hexagons, squares, and triangles. You can also choose from lots of gorgeous colors: white, weathered gray, brown, black, and turquoise. These shelves are ideal for displaying pictures and knickknacks, but they also look great completely empty.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Rustic-Farmhouse-Floating-Box-Shelves/dp/B014DTWNOE”]Rustic Farmhouse Floating Box Shelves, $39.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. Give your furniture a much-needed makeover.

Do your friends cringe at the thought of sitting on your couch? If you need an easy way to dress up ugly furniture, these removable covers are for you. Chunyi Jacquard Furniture Covers will turn your hideous couch, love seat, or favorite chair into a showpiece that everyone will talk about.

And the best part? The covers are machine-washable, and they come in a variety of colors, including gray, coffee, chocolate, ivory white, and many more.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Jacquard-1-Piece-Polyester-Spandex-Slipcover/dp/B00X59EJ6Y”]Chunyi Jacquard Furniture Covers, $28.95 to $38.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. Spice up bland corners with these specially designed shelves.

Do corners ever seem like a waste of space to you? Try to fit a table into the corner, and you end up with an awkward-looking space (and, potentially, bruised shins). That’s why these wall-mounted corner shelves from Greenco are such a great find.

These easy-to-hang shelves come in a rich espresso color, and they have plenty of room for displaying your favorite pictures, plants, clocks, or whatever else you’re into.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Greenco-Corner-Shelves-Espresso-Finish/dp/B01GIJBK50″]Greenco 5-Tier Wall Mount Corner Shelves, $26.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. This candle just keeps on shining.

Candles can make any home more inviting, but you can’t burn them unattended. Plus, they can make a great big waxy mess after you blow out the flame. So how do you boost the ambiance without an annoying (or potentially dangerous) aftermath?

Try these super-realistic LED tea lights from Homemory. These 12 electric candles glow with a warm white color. They’ll light up any space for more than 100 hours before you need to replace the batteries.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Homemory-Realistic-Flickering-Flameless-Celebration/dp/B01EDKGFGU”]Homemory LED Tea Lights, $9.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. Get some zen in your life.

We can all use a little more meditative calm in our lives, right? Well, with this decorative holder and three glass votives, you can introduce a relaxing ambiance to any room in your house. This candlescape set from Dawhud Direct comes with a wooden plate, three glass votive holders, and a variety of stones in natural earth-tone shades.

One note: The entire set is a bit small, so it’ll look best on a smaller surface.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Candlescape-Decorative-Candle-Holders/dp/B01LTDZBSW”]Natural Candlescape Set, $15.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. Free up space with this country decor wall organizer.

You will adore this rustic wall-mounted organizer. It looks like it just came out of a turn-of-the-century farmhouse. With two shelves and two hooks, this wooden organizer is the perfect addition to any entryway, kitchen, or mudroom.

Plus, it comes with a small metal pail to help get you started on decorating the shelves. Make sure you have the appropriate tools to hang this piece because the hardware is not included.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/MyGift-Mounted-Organizer-Shelves-Storage/dp/B00WVXTKAU”]MyGift Rustic Wood Wall Mounted Organizer, $34.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

9. Bring the herb garden indoors, or decorate with adorable succulents.

Say goodbye to last-minute trips to the grocery store! While you’re at it, forget about going outside to cut fresh herbs. With these rustic pots, you can plant your own basil, thyme, and rosemary right there in the kitchen.

If you’re not into herbs, throw in some succulents or small flowering plants for an adorable, natural decoration. These pots are small enough to sit on a windowsill but large enough to add a touch of the outdoors to your kitchen.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Vencer-Country-Turquoise-Succulent-Planters/dp/B06X9B9KZB”]Vencer County Rustic Planter, $22.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. Pick up a throw that looks and feels amazing.

A beautiful throw draped over your couch looks amazing any time of the year. If you’re on a budget and looking to add some style to your living room, a throw is your best bet.

These silky-soft throws from Bourina come in a variety of colors including dark grey, blue, beige, and light lavender. This throw is machine-washable, so you can still eat ice cream while lazing on the couch.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MAW1T9I”]Bourina Throw, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. Choose a pillow cover for every day of the week.

Pillows make any couch cozy and cute. But who wants to buy a new pillow every time you want to change things up? Fortunately, these pillow covers from CaliTime come in a two-pack and include colors such as teal, navy blue, medium grey, and coffee.

Grab a few and change out your color scheme on a daily basis! The chenille surface will feel great on your face when your couch convinces you that it’s time for a nap.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/CaliTime-Pillow-Covers-Decoration-Chenille/dp/B07569ZT5K”]CaliTime Pack of 2 Cozy Throw Pillow Covers, $15.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. Dress up this pillow any way you want.

Every room needs a few pillows, right? These cover-free pillows from Utopia Bedding are the perfect way to fit style into a tight budget…provided you took our advice and picked up some of those CaliTime throw covers! These are square throw pillows, ideal for the couch.

They’re stuffed with siliconized fiber that won’t thin out over time. Enjoy nice, comfortable, plump throw pillows today and well into the future.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Utopia-Bedding-Decorative-Pillow-Inserts/dp/B078TKMKKL”]Utopia Bedding Decorative Pillow Inserts, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. This faux lavender looks like you just cut it from your garden.

Fresh lavender is only available for a few months out of the year, but don’t worry. This artificial lavender fits nicely in any vase, making an easy way to add some color to your home.

This plastic bouquet includes six stems of gorgeous, fake lavender, complete with leaves and buds, just like the real thing. Spritz a little lavender essential oil on them and you’ll swear they’re fresh from the garden.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/VANCORE-Plastic-Lavender-Bouquet-Artificial/dp/B0711CV3FT”]6-Piece Artificial Lavender Bouquet, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Show off your artificial lavender—or fresh-cut flowers—with this metal vase.

After you pick up a few sprigs of artificial lavender, you need a place to display them, right? These rustic pitchers provide a beautiful display for artificial or fresh-cut flowers.

Of course, you can also use these decorative jugs for their intended purpose: carrying water around the garden. Whether you employ these jugs in the backyard or on the dinner table, the distressed finish and subtle color are sure to delight.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/VANCORE-Shabby-Pitcher-Flower-Decoration/dp/B07DZRP8GX”]VANCORE Shabby-Chic Metal Jug, $20.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. Meet the serving tray that doubles as coffee table decor.

Serve up your scones and coffee in style with this artfully distressed serving tray. It’s constructed almost entirely from whitewashed wood, but it looks like it’s been weathered for decades. Black metal handles provide an easy grip.

If you’d describe your style as “shabby-chic,” this serving tray for you. It also doubles as a coffee table centerpiece; throw a few vases or mugs on it to create a great (and almost effortlessly simple) display.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Distressed-Torched-20-Inch-Serving-Handles/dp/B075NSY1KT”]Distressed Torched Wood Serving Tray, $39.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. This is the one home decor item everyone needs.

If there is one item that belongs on every home decor list, it’s curtains. Yes, those good, old-fashioned curtains you grew up with can add style and elegance to any window or glass door in your home.

Depending on the look you’re going for, you can add color to a room with hot pink curtains, or simply add some style with soft white drapery. These curtains from Home Linen Collections are sheer, which means you still get to enjoy the sunlight. They’re also washable for stress-free cleaning.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072N1QNL6″]Home Linen Collections Sheer Curtains, $12.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. What good is a curtain without a rod?

So you’ve spent hours settling on the perfect curtains for the living room, and you’re ready for a break. Not so fast! You still need to find a curtain rod to match. We recommend this easy-to-hang double rod from Umbra.

It’s adjustable, so you can add curtains to virtually any window. Plus, the minimalist nickel finish matches any style. The dual-rod construction lets you hang two sets of curtains on a single unit.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Umbra-1005892-782-REM-Twilight-Room-Darkening-Curtain/dp/B01N683R28″]Umbra REM Curtain Rod 48” to 88,” Matte Nickel, $34.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

18. Add a touch of nature to your home with these lifelike twin plants.

If you have a tendency to kill anything you plant, you might try going with artificial greenery. These imitation potted plants will brighten up your bathroom—or any room in your house, for that matter. And the best part? There’s no watering required!

This set comes with two artificial potted plants, each in its own decorative pot. At just 4” tall, they’re perfect for bathroom shelves, side tables, and desks.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Bloom-Times-Bathroom-Artificial-Decorations/dp/B07698CVNW”]Bloom Times Artificial Plants, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. Liven up a dreary bathroom with this fun vintage sign.

Want to make a little money at your next house party? Hang this vintage sign, which advertises “fresh soap and water” for just a nickel, in your bathroom. Don’t forget to leave a money jar by the sink!

This fun bit of vintage wall-art from Ohio Wholesale will be good for a laugh when your friends pop into the restroom. They may even take the message to heart and leave you some spare change.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Ohio-Wholesale-Advertising-Americana-Collection/dp/B0070AMQGY”]Ohio Wholesale Vintage Bath Wall Art, $13.30 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. Hide your cotton swabs in this chic lotus-themed holder.

Looking for a better way to store boring old Q-tips? Well, look no further. You can tuck up to 30 cotton swabs in this super-cute, lotus-inspired container. The white tips look like they’re part of the design, so no one will even know they’re there.

This item is small enough to fit on your packed bathroom shelves, and it includes a shatterproof clear lid to keep swabs clean. It also makes a nice decorative piece for your bathroom counter.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/MelonBoat-Cotton-Toothpicks-Storage-Organizer/dp/B00ZFL8JZC”]MelonBoat Lotus Cotton Swab Holder, $7.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. This sleek napkin holder solves your napkin-supply problem.

How many times do you reach for a napkin only to come up empty-handed? This fun, functional napkin holder ensures you won’t have to rely on your shirt next time you spill the ketchup.

This clever design expands or shrinks when you squeeze the sides. In other words, the shape of the holder adjusts based on the number of napkins you have. Pretty cool! Not only does it serve the purpose of housing your napkins, it also makes a great centerpiece for your kitchen table.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Umbra-Swivel-Napkin-Holder-Nickel/dp/B00S13U84Q”]Umbra Swivel Adjustable Napkin Holder, $13 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. This minimalist trash can gives any room a modern look.

Whoever thought a trash can would make a home decor list? When we saw this stylish design, though, we realized that even a wastebasket can contribute to the room’s overall look.

These trash cans are modern and simple, and at 11” tall, they don’t take up much space. The space they do fill pops with your choice of subtle colors, including spruce, white, charcoal, espresso, and black. Toss your trash with a dash of elegance.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S13POIQ”]Umbra Woodrow Trash Can, $19.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. Here’s cute countertop solution for all of your kitchen clutter.

We all have kitchen-counter clutter, and regardless of how you stack it, there are very few ways to make that mess look good. Here’s the good news: There are plenty of stylish products you can buy to help organize your spices, oils, and anything else that takes up space on your counter.

Storing jars and bottles is easy with the Tosca Kitchen Rack from YAMAZAKI Home Tosca. This compact unit has two shelves that are big enough to fit your favorite herb and spice jars.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IM2XI6G”]YAMAZAKI Home Tosca Kitchen Rack, $40.00 from Amazon[/link-button]

24. Store fruits and vegetables with contemporary style.

Display your fruits and veggies in a unique metal basket with contemporary design. Open construction lets your produce breathe, which helps keep it fresh longer. And get this: When you’re finished using this basket to store your food, you can fold it up and put it in a drawer.

On the other hand, why store it out of sight when its clean lines and stainless steel construction look so great on the kitchen counter?
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UP5TJW0″]Stainless Steel Fruit Basket, $22.55 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. Turn an empty corner into a useful storage space that looks amazing.

This five-tier shelving unit fits snugly into corners, while a rounded outer edge softens the contours of the room. It’s made from particle board and PVC tubes, which keep it light and easy to move. While these materials might not sound very…premium…they’re finished to look like a shelf that costs three times as much.

Choose from a variety of finishes and colors, including beech and white, light cherry and black, espresso and black, and straight-up walnut.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007E4Y5T2″]Furinno Turn-n-Tube 5-Tier Corner Shelf, $19.73 to $26.59 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. If you have a passion for cycling, reading, or both, here’s a bookend for you.

Bookends don’t have to be boring. This set depicts a vintage bicycle with an art deco aesthetic. One bookend makes up the rear of the bike, while the other carries the front; the effect is that of a bicycle riding right through your library.

A textured iron finish warms up the sculpture of sorts. Each bookend stands 8” tall by 6” wide, so they can squeeze onto most shelves or end tables without a problem.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0057RJZQG”]Deco Metal Bookend Pair, $26.86 from Amazon[/link-button]

27. Get the look of subway tile without the tough installation.

Do you love the clean look of a subway-tile backsplash, but loathe the idea of working with grout and sealer? Give these adhesive sheets a try. Yes, we said adhesive; in other words, these are stickers.

The sheets are raised to look like actual tiles. All you have to do is peel and stick to a clean surface. The adhesive cures in just 24 hours, leaving a secure, attractive surface. These function a lot like real tile—without the risk of moldy grout.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073NSLNXH”]Tic Tac Tiles Anti-Mold Peel-and-Stick Wall Tile, $35.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. This classic framed mirror will be right at home with any decor.

No matter how you have your living space decorated, this mirror will fit right in. It’s a sizable rectangle that measures 21.5” by 27.5”. Install this mirror vertically or horizontally to fit your overall decorating scheme.

The mirror features a wide, 3” frame that’s available in white, pewter, bronze, or flat black. This budget-friendly mirror from MCS compliments any room, and it’s fitted with four D-rings on the back to simplify hanging.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/MCS-15-5×21-5-21-5×27-5-Overall-20450/dp/B00I3WZ886″]MCS Mirror, $39.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. You don’t need to be an artist to put a gorgeous mural on the wall.

If you’re not an accomplished painter, we wouldn’t recommend using your wall as a canvas. Luckily, adhesives are the new trend in affordable home decor. All you have to do is pick up this three-dimensional wall decal, stick it to any surface, and enjoy—no art school background necessary.

This beautiful tree mural from Hermione Baby makes a great backdrop for any couple’s living room or bedroom. To stay on budget, choose the small or medium option.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014F36UIS”]Couple’s Tree Wall Mural, $23.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. Make your bedroom wall a conversation piece with this family-tree decal.

Do you have a hard time keeping track of all of the members of your family? Decorate your living space while tracking your family’s growth with this enormous vinyl wall decal. It depicts a stylized tree, with eight empty squares for hanging family portraits.

It sticks to your walls and peels off easily when you’re ready for something new. The applied design measures about 6’ by 8’, meaning it can fill a lot of blank wall space.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LaceDecaL-install-history-bedroom-decoration/dp/B01H60TM2I”]Lace Decal Large Family Tree Wall Decal, $9.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

31. Glam out your living room with a silver alligator-skin serving tray.

Okay, it’s not real alligator skin. Alligator skin is not silver, at least not that we’ve seen. But this is a fun centerpiece with an unabashedly playful vibe. Take it off the table to serve guests at your next evening party, or add some panache to your next breakfast in bed.

This rectangular serving tray from Home Redefined comes with handles for easy serving, and when it gets dirty, all you have to do is wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Decorative-Home-Redefined-Occassions/dp/B0723G3J4R”]Silver Alligator-Skin Rectangular Serving Tray, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. Store your towels and magazines on this simple, super-cute ladder.

Who said ladders are just for climbing? This steel storage unit rests against any wall in the house, but it’s particularly useful in the bathroom. It makes a great place to hang bath towels, magazines, and more.

This storage ladder has a rich bronze finish and features five rungs for hanging your stuff. It stands around five feet tall and doesn’t weigh much, which makes it easy to move from room to room.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/mDesign-Standing-Towel-Storage-Ladder/dp/B017A3P17G”]mDesign Storage Ladder, $29.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

33. Function meets style with this crisp little nightstand.

Every bedroom needs a nightstand, right? Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to find the right combination of function, style, and price point—until now, that is. This minimalist nightstand from Zinus Modern Studio Collection fits right next to your bed, where it takes up very little room.

This little table works great for books, magazines, lamps, alarm clocks, and more. Plus, the square tubing frame and an espresso finish give this nightstand a chic, modern look.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Zinus-Modern-Studio-Collection-Square/dp/B01I5ZLJ3I”]Zinus Modern Studio Collection Nightstand, $38.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. This coat rack holds everything but the kitchen sink, which is fine, because the sink still belongs in the kitchen.

This bamboo coat rack was built in the “Scandinavian style,” according to the Amazon product description. If you’ve ever been to IKEA, you know what that means: beauty, affordability, and functionality. This wall-mounted unit features a modern design that works well with existing decor of all styles.

Hang coats from five metal hooks along the bottom of the rack. The top shelf displays your favorite tchotchkes—or just use it to hold your coffee cup while you put your shoes on!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LANGRIA-Wall-Mounted-Storage-Scandinavian-Bathroom/dp/B06XYHFCLJ”]LANGRIA Wall-Mounted Bamboo Coat Rack, $28.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. Build your own custom shelving units with these modular storage cubes.

Who doesn’t like storage units you can stack? If you’re living in a small home or apartment, floor space is a hot commodity. That’s why the Modular Shelf Cube Storage System from Foremost is so great.

Each individual unit features two shelves to store books, magazines, or whatever else. Plus, the top serves as a solid table. If you need extra storage, pick up two or three of these cube systems and stack them on top of each other.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Foremost-327301-Modular-Storage-System/dp/B000O1AOTM”]Foremost Modular Shelf Cube Storage System, $20.35 from Amazon[/link-button]

36. You’ve never seen a flower vase like this one before.

Somehow, this set of teeny tiny vases can make an entire room feel particularly welcoming. Pick up your own and you’ll see what we mean. This is a set of eight small, tubular vases, ideal for a single stem each. The entire unit fits on any table, counter, or windowsill.

Various color schemes are available to fit any decor. Fill the vases with fresh-cut or artificial lavender, roses, or herbs to create your own decorative centerpiece.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Chive-Rectangle-Decorative-Centerpieces-Chartreuse/dp/B010E3QXLW”]Unique Rectangle Ceramic Flower Vases, $28.85 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. Give your kitchen island a modern appearance with this copper stool.

No more standing at the sink while you enjoy the day’s first cup of coffee. Pick up a few of these industrial-style stools, and you can finally take a seat at your kitchen island to enjoy your morning in comfort—and style. Don’t forget the style.

These attractive stools are suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and with their copper powder-coat finish, they’re easy to clean. Pick up a few, if you’d like; they’re stackable for simple storage.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Flash-Furniture-Backless-Indoor-Outdoor-Counter/dp/B01JCED2W2″]Flash Furniture Backless Copper Stool, $36.25 from Amazon[/link-button]

38. Store your sundries the old-fashioned way with this set of apothecary jars.

Create a vintage decoration while actually doing something useful: Storing your stuff. This set of three apothecary jars is ideal for decoration and storage alike.

Fill them with jelly beans or M&Ms in the kitchen; store Q-tips and cotton balls in the bathroom; or fill with colored sand and seashells for a handsome living room display. These jars are made of pure, clear glass, so they’ll highlight the simple beauty of whatever they hold.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Mantello-Decor-Glass-Apothecary-Medium/dp/B07C8FMFBF/”]Mantello Decor Apothecary Jars, Set of 3, $34.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social

Favorite Finds Motherhood

15 Baby And Kids' Products You Can Live Without…And What To Buy Instead

Post author By Cindy Lamothe
Post date October 2, 2018

When it comes to buying products for your little one, decision fatigue is real. You’ve probably scoured way too many baby item Pinterest boards to count. Truth is, there are an overwhelming amount of options and some pretty compelling reasons to want to buy all the things, causing you to quickly overspend.
Rather than waste your much-needed resources on products you don’t actually need, there are items worth every penny, and we’re here to break them down for you. Below are 15 baby and kids products you can definitely live without—and what to shop for instead!

Baby Products

1. Don’t do: Baby wipe warmer.

This is first on our list because it’s one of the most tempting purchases to pick up before your little bundle of joy arrives. It seems logical that your baby’s tiny bottom would need warm wipes, right? Wrong. From my experience, my little one couldn’t tell the difference between a room temperature wipe from a “warmed up” one. And believe you me, in those early days of parenting, you’ll be using those wipes so often that you’ll practically rip them out of the package.

Do try: These delightfully absorbent burp cloths.

Your baby is going to spit all up on you (and then some), and for this reason, you must be prepared. While wipes generally come in handy for any number of things, you’ll want to protect your clothes from getting wet in the first place. That’s why ARNIZION’s Curved Burp Cloths are so great.

You just sling one of their 100 percent cotton cloths over your shoulder, and not only will it protect you from your little angel’s drips and drools, but it also won’t slip off easily. Trust me, you’ll be using these round the clock.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Cloths-Curved-Absorbent-Valuable/dp/B075F3MQQX”]ARNIZION Baby Burp Cloth Set, $10.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. Don’t do: Bottle warmers.

Likewise with wipe warmers: Just don’t. Many of us parents are easily duped into these items before our kids arrive because let’s face it: We have no idea what we’re getting into. It’s like when you’re going on vacation and you buy (and then pack) a bunch of needless stuff you end up regretting. Luckily, those of us on the other side can let other parents know ahead of time.
Instead of paying money for this contraption, run your baby’s bottle under a hot faucet or warm it in a cup of hot water—BOOM. Remember, each formula’s instructions will be different, but a good rule of thumb is that it should be body temperature, meaning, it should feel warm or cool, but never hot.

Do try: Baby bottles worth investing in.

Rather than spend money on unnecessary items, spend a little more on the quality of your baby bottles (I promise, it’s worth it).

Philips Avent Anti-Colic Baby Bottles are beloved far and wide for their design and durability. And as their name implies, they are clinically proven to reduce your baby’s colic, meaning less gas and fussiness (aka a more rested you).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Philips-Avent-Anti-colic-Bottles-Clear/dp/B01M1DSSSX”]Philips Avent Anti-Colic Baby Bottles, $16.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. Don’t do: Baby perfume.

One of the things I love the most about my munchkin is that he always smells like peanut butter. No matter what he eats. It’s the weirdest, most lovable scent in the world to me, and I promise your little one will be equally delicious to inhale. In fact, research has shown that women, mothers or not, tend to enjoy a baby’s scent. Which brings me to my point: You do not need to cover them up with pricey, superficial fragrance.

Do try: These baby grooming essentials.

Keep your small human healthy and groomed with this handy 17-piece kit by The First Years. My two-year-old still uses the majority of these essentials.

The pack of neat items includes a nasal aspirator for cleaning out a runny nose, a digital thermometer, a medicine spoon with a cap, a nail clipper, a tiny brush and comb, and even a small rattle to keep your baby entertained and distracted. All of this comes in a practical bag to take with you on outings and trips.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/First-Years-American-Healthcare-Grooming/dp/B000LZFZVS”]Baby Healthcare And Grooming Kit, $17.13 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. Don’t do: Changing tables.

Confession time: I purchased the loveliest of changing tables before my little one got here. How did this happen? Because all of those Pinterest boards with the cute nursery rooms had them, and it seemed logical that you’d need a special place to change your child’s diapers. But here’s the thing, when it comes to parenting, you want to look at the long game (I can say this now in hindsight); in other words, find furniture that your child won’t outgrow.

Do try: A dresser that will go the distance.

Here’s what I wish I had bought two years ago: The Delta Children Universal 6 Drawer Dresser; you just set up a changing kit and pad on top, and you’re good to go.

Once your baby starts potty training, you simply take it off and have a completely functional furniture item to last you for years. Hurrah!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Delta-Children-Universal-Drawer-Dresser/dp/B01DPH3YT8″]Delta Children Universal 6 Drawer Dresser, $249.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. Don’t do: Baby pillow.

As we’re certain you’ve heard before, anything other than a fitted sheet in your baby’s crib is a big no-no. Tempting as it may be, your baby will be perfectly fine to sleep without one, and you’ll stave off any potential choking hazards.

Do try: A magical sound machine to get your baby to sleep.

You know what becomes your top priority? Getting your small angel to sleep through the night. As every parent since the beginning of time can tell you, this is no easy feat. Luckily, the Baby Sleep Soother Sound Machine is basically magic.

The shushing heartbeat sound, white noise, and soft, pulsing light will lull your baby into dreamland. You can set a 10-, 20-, or 30-minute shut-off timer, too, so you can head to bed.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Munchkin-Portable-Sleep-Soother-Machine/dp/B01M8PJO3W”]Portable Baby Sleep Soother Sound Machine, $17.75 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. Don’t do: Diaper pails.

Diaper pails are easily one of the most overhyped items on this list. Sure, this seems like an incredibly important purchase, but really, all you need is any closed trash bin. Trust me, you’re not going to want to fill a diaper pail to the brim with stinky, soiled diapers. You’re going to immediately take out the trash after a poopy session (of which there will be plenty), so why invest in a fancy bin?

Do try: Keep your baby nearby with this rocking bassinet.

Whether you’re unsure if you’ll co-sleep or have your little angel sleep in a crib, one thing is for sure: You’ll have round the clock feedings. And for this reason, a bassinet can feel like a life-saver.

This portable bassinet by MiClassic makes sleep time a lot more manageable with its brilliant rocking mode. It also gives you the option of folding into a carry on bag for traveling.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Rocking-Bassinet-One-Second-Portable-Newborn/dp/B06ZZP4TCP”]MiClassic Rocking Bassinet, $74.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. Don’t do: Designer diaper bag.

As tempting as a designer bag may seem, resist the urge to spend hundreds of dollars on something meant to get dirty (diaper cream and sippy cup spillage come to mind). More importantly, you’re going to need that extra money for the loads upon loads of diapers you will actually need.

Do try: This fashionably frugal tote.

Being practical doesn’t mean you have to give up style! The striped tote from Primebabe is fashionable, and it’s also large enough to fit all of your baby’s essentials.

It also comes with an assortment of neat (and useful) accessories: a changing pad for all your outings, a bottle bag, adjustable shoulder strap, and a cute mini purse.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Capacity-Primebabe-Stroller-Organizer-Changing/dp/B01N0XP3MB”]Primebabe 5 in 1 Baby Diaper Bag, $24.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. Scented detergent.

While most people will simply tell you don’t do the thing, let me share my experience: I, too, bought into the hype of spending money on scented laundry detergent before my son was born, and wouldn’t-ya-know-it—he has sensitive skin. Meaning it was all for waste. Babies come straight from the womb with delicate, pristine skin—no need to push harsh soaps on them. WebMD recommends sticking to fragrance-free laundry detergents whenever possible and to keep in mind that liquid rinses out better than flakes.

Do try: A free and clear detergent that won’t harm your little one.

Since you have no way of knowing how your baby will react, keep things on the safe side with Seventh Generation’s Concentrated Laundry Detergent, an unscented and hypoallergenic alternative.

You’ll never spend as much time washing clothes as when you have a small human in your home (unless there are several!), which is all the more reason to opt for a detergent that is both tough on stains and gentle for your skin.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Seventh-Generation-Concentrated-Detergent-Unscented/dp/B0091DS0UY”]Seventh Generation’s Concentrated Laundry Detergent, $25.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

9. Don’t do: Baby shoes galore.

Teeny tiny baby shoes are the cutest. I really, truly understand the desire to buy them in the dozens. But here’s a fact: They have no actual purpose other than looking all kinds of adorable. Baby shoes for a non-walking baby is basically throwing money into a big ole’ pit with little return. Since we know the temptation is strong, we recommend limiting yourself to buying only one pair for all your photo-taking needs.

Do try: These stylish bibs that keep your baby drool-free.

There are few things I know for certain, but one of them is this: You can never have too many bibs in your parenting arsenal.

As we’ve established before, babies love to spit up all over us and themselves (and just wait until they’re teething!). These super absorbent drool bibs will keep your little one nice and dry.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Parker-Baby-Bandana-Drool-Bibs/dp/B074NXP1GR”]Parker’s Baby Bandana Drool Bibs, $21.80 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. Don’t do: Expensive bedding.

They add a layer of cuteness to your nursery room, you might say. But in reality, all of those frilly bumpers and pillows are problematic as they put your baby at risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, as soft and loose bedding can increase the potential risk of suffocation. Like we said before, you only really need a soft fitted crib sheet to cover the mattress pad, which is your safest option for bedtime.

Do try: These baby-hugging wearable blankets.

If you’re worried about your munchkin staying warm, there’s a perfect alternative to potentially hazardous bedding.

This wearable blanket from Bon Bebe Baby is pure cotton and keeps your little one nice and cozy without the added risk. This is one of our favorite items on this list, and one you’ll most likely use all day.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Bon-Bebe-Friends-Assorted-Wearable/dp/B01D1RTA1S”]Bon Bebe Baby’s Wearable Blanket, $14.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

Kids’ Products

11. Don’t do: Musical potty.

At some point in your potty training trajectory, you will have the impulse to buy a potty with flashing lights and loud sounds. It’ll make poopy time so fun, you’ll say. Well, I am here to help you resist that urge.
Just no. Kids don’t need all those bells and whistles to do their business (promise!). It’s nothing an average-priced potty seat and good old-fashioned patience can’t handle.

Do try: A book to guide you on the potty training path.

A good friend of mine says that life is all about strategy. That’s why parents need The Complete Guide to Potty Training by Michelle D. Swaney.

Sure, while your child’s milestone (sans diaper) seems pretty straightforward, it can also get exasperating. Needless to say, difficulties will arise, and it’s times like these where you’ll want the step-by-step guidance of experts.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Guide-Potty-Training-Step/dp/1641520116″]The Complete Guide to Potty Training, $11.12 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. Don’t do: Toys that sing or light up.

Another tempting buy, and one totally not worth your money. While initially entertaining, the batteries wear off fast or the toy will stop working altogether. I can personally vouch for the tedium of having your child go into full tantrum mode because their once favorite teddy no longer lights up. Yeah…best to avoid this pitfall altogether.

Do try: Fostering their musical talents.

Encourage your child’s creativity by letting them come up with their own rhythms instead. Science has shown that a child’s brain is enhanced by learning to play a musical instrument. According to Melissa Locker at Time, “This helps them develop ‘neurophysiological distinction’ between certain sounds that can aid in literacy, which can translate into improved academic results for kids.”

This set of kids’ musical instruments not only lasts longer than a singing toy, but it also allows a child to create their own melodies. The complete set comes with various instruments for a wider range of sounds and is safe to use for younger kids as well.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Innocheer-Kids-Musical-Instruments-Tambourine/dp/B01L6ZMVYU”]Innocheer Kids Musical Instruments, $27.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. Don’t do: Brand-name apparel.

There’s honestly nothing more frustrating than spending a large chunk of a paycheck on a jazzy outfit your child will outgrow in a matter of months. Avoid overpaying for brand-name clothes and opt instead for buying from big box retailers and thrift stores, which offer similar value for a LOT less.

Do try: A durable backpack that lasts all year.

Aside from making sure your child’s sporting a backpack that’s stylish and functional, you’ll want to go for one that’s going to be easy on their back. Remember that a heavy bag can cause nerve damage to your kiddo’s arms and shoulders, so investing in a high-quality book bag should be a priority.

We recommend MIFULGOO’s Kids Waterproof Backpack for its smart design, roomy compartments, and added reflector (which combines safety with style).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Backpack-Elementary-Middle-Reflector/dp/B01GS63Q3M”]MIFULGOO Kids Waterproof Backpack, $24.52 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Don’t do: Fancy laptops.

You might easily be tempted to overspend thousands of dollars on the latest high-tech laptop computer, but keep in mind: Does your kid really need it? With the ever-changing tech landscape, it makes no sense to spend an exorbitant amount of funds on a laptop that will quickly become outdated.

Do try: Getting a cost-effective alternative.

If your child would mainly use a pricey MacBook Air for surfing the web and watching Netflix, you’re better off opting for a Google-powered Acer Chromebook, which offers the same value for a fraction of the cost.

The convertible laptop boots up in seconds, has full HD touch, 4GB memory, and a 12-hour battery life. Put the rest of what you would have spent on a fancy laptop toward their college fund (trust me, they’ll thank you later).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Acer-Chromebook-Convertible-13-3-inch-CB5-312T-K5X4/dp/B01LXYG77O”]Acer Chromebook R 13 Convertible, $329.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. Don’t do: Extravagant birthdays.

Alright, alright—this one’s not exactly a “product,” but it does involve a lot of wasted money. Sure, we want our kids to have the most magical of days, but as Samantha Kemp-Jackson of HuffPost questioned, are expensive kiddie birthday parties more over-indulgent than they are necessary?
Some researchers have found that spoiling children at a young age can pose long-term effects such as poor social skills, irresponsibility, and lack of independence. Kemp-Jackson noted that this might be “to make up for our feelings of parental inadequacy and engagement by spending lots of money.”

Do try: Taking them on an adventure.

Your kids will only be little for so long, so don’t spend a fortune on birthday supplies that you’ll only use once when you can opt for more memorable experiences. Pack their bag (we recommend MiniMAX’s Children’s Trolley Luggage) and take them camping to watch falling stars.

Hit the road (or the sky) for an adventurous trip, or simply spend the day at the beach. After all, there’s nothing more extravagant than the gift of your undivided attention.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/MiniMAX-Childrens-Suitcase-Backpack-Favourite/dp/B01LWJP6SZ”]MiniMAX’s Children’s Trolley Luggage, $33.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social

Favorite Finds Nosh

37 Amazingly Useful Kitchen Accessories For Under $25 That Are Worth Every Penny

Post author By Ashley Linkletter
Post date October 1, 2018

We all know we need to cook more—it’s healthier, cheaper, and just generally better for you. That being said, sometimes it’s hard to get yourself in the kitchen to whip up a nice meal when you’re tired from a full day of work and parenting (or a long day of relaxing, we don’t judge).
Fortunately, thanks to the power of Amazon, we’ve discovered an array of cooking tools and accessories that make us excited to get back in front of the stove to create some culinary delights.

1. Give yourself an extra hand (or two) in the kitchen.

A good set of tongs is like having an extra set of hands when you’re cooking, and with these Polar Pantry tongs, you get double the help for the price of a single pair. These tongs have turquoise silicone-tipped points, which means they won’t scratch your bakeware, dinnerware, or delicate wooden or ceramic dishes.

Make easy work of flipping meat and poultry, tossing salads, mixing pasta with sauce, grabbing hot things out of the oven, and wilting greens—all while adding a stylishly bright pop of color to your kitchenware!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E5APHYO”]Premium Silicone Kitchen Tongs 2-Pack, $13.84 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. Discover a new use for beeswax and eliminate the need for plastic wrap.

Give these delightfully twee beeswax wraps from Beetome a try and feel good about saving the bees and helping the environment at the same time. Designed to adhere directly to food and to seal leftovers in containers, these wraps work best when they’re at room temperature (when they’re at their most malleable). Naturally anti-mold and antibacterial, beeswax wrap can be rinsed with cold water and used repeatedly.

Beeswax wrap can be used to preserve all kinds of foods, but since it’s a highly breathable substance, it’s particularly effective when used to wrap cheese in place of plastic wrap or cheese paper for storage.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DBZB6NB”]Reusable Beeswax Wrap, $17.56 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. Stop horsing around with pasta measurements.

Cooking too much pasta seems to be a universal problem, especially if you’re trying to make pasta for one or two people. This whimsical little pasta measurer couldn’t be easier to use and it lets you know exactly how much dry pasta is needed based on the number of people eating. Plus, the more you use this little gadget, the more likely you’ll be able to eyeball pasta measurements (although you may find yourself reaching for the I Could Eat A Horse pasta measurer out of sheer appreciation for its cuteness).

Capable of measuring up to four portions of spaghetti, this adorable measuring tool also comes in a T-Rex-themed version (perfect for any dinosaur and pasta-loving people in your life).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DDRSYUA”]I Could Eat a Horse Spaghetti Noodle Pasta Measurer Tool, $11.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. An Extra-Safe Mandoline for All Your Slicing Needs

If you’ve ever wondered how food bloggers and stylists get their veggies looking picture-perfect, the answer is (drumroll please) a mandoline slicer. This affordable mandoline slicer is a particularly impressive model thanks to its numerous safety features and the fact that it will drastically cut-down (get it?) on prep time.

With three interchangeable stainless steel blades, this mandoline can grate, slice, and julienne with ease. This deluxe set includes a spiralizer, a cheese grater, a straight blade, a julienne blade, and a cut-resistant glove (mandolines have infamously razor-sharp blades).
Use this mandoline slicer from Prep Naturals to make homemade coleslaws and other chopped salads, quick pickles, crudites, homemade vegetable chips, grain bowls, ramen dishes, and pie fillings.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Adjustable-Mandoline-Slicer-Spiralizer-Vegetable/dp/B07FZL4C54″]Adjustable Mandoline Slicer, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. A Kitchen Timer That Keeps On Ticking

If you’ve ever used your phone as a cooking timer, you’ve probably also had the misfortune of not hearing the alarm on your phone go off, leaving you with an overcooked, inedible waste of food that had to be thrown out. Avoid future kitchen disasters with this stainless steel kitchen time from LEMEGO, a mechanical timer that doesn’t require batteries or a power outlet to work.

Made of attractive durable stainless steel, this timer can be set for any amount of time between 0 and 60 minutes and has an alarm that’s loud enough to be heard in another room.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072MN3ZH2″]LEMEGO Stainless Steel Manual Kitchen Timer, $9.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. A Super Stack of Super Useful Items

Consolidate the contents of your cupboard with this impressive stack of nesting baking essentials from Vremi. This 13-piece set contains a large mixing bowl with a non-skid bottom, a colander, a fine-mesh sieve, a bowl with a pouring spout, measuring cups, and a standalone keyring of measuring spoons (all measuring equipment is marked with both imperial and metric increments). Made of BPA-free, dishwasher-safe sturdy plastic, this nesting stack of versatile culinary equipment will save valuable kitchen space (as well as all the money needed to buy the pieces individually).

Looking for gift ideas? This nesting set is a natural for weddings, first apartments, and new homeowners.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GVMW044″]Vremi 13 Piece Mixing Bowl Set With Handle, $18.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. An Elegant Bento Box For Everyday Use

There are many benefits to bringing your own lunch to work; it’s easier on the wallet, gives you far more healthy options, and reduces the waste inherent to pre-packaged foods. You’re a mature adult with sophisticated taste and it’s officially time to leave the brown bags behind and graduate to this stylish bento box from GRUB2GO. Composed of two leak-proof sections that are perfectly sized for healthy portions, this bento is microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe.

This bento box also comes with a single set of utensils, an elastic strap to prevent potential leaks, and an e-book featuring plenty of bento inspiration to get you started.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014EX3672″]Japanese Traditional Bento Box by GRUB2GO, $22.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. This Cheerful Set of Blue Mugs

Looking for some flower power in the kitchen? These beautifully patterned mugs are a surefire way to serve some much-needed cheer and warmth on early mornings before work. Whether you’re a fan of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or matcha (hello gorgeous!), these mugs are elegant enough for company but also casual enough for everyday use.

For best results, handwash these Nicola Spring patterned mugs with a mild detergent and a non-abrasive cloth to maintain their vibrant color and keep them free from accidental chips and breakage.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XKZSSD7″]Blue and White Floral Design Tea & Coffee Mug, $24.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

9. A 3-Pack of Knives You’ll Want to Use All the Time

If you already own a chef’s knife and a serrated knife, this compact 3-piece knife set from Ecotony will complete your inventory of necessary cutlery (just remember to keep them sharpened). This set includes a paring knife, a peeling knife, and a longer utility knife; the bright green handles add a pop of color to your knife collection and are ergonomically designed for easy use.

Don’t underestimate the importance of small knives! They can be used to peel and finely dice stringy vegetables, remove the seeds from tomatoes, slice cheese and charcuterie for a cheeseboard, and most importantly, they’re an essential tool for recreating Chef Jacques Pépin’s lion teeth and tiny pigs from lemons at home.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0754HY1JY”]Ecotony Pro 3 Piece Kitchen Paring Knife Set, $17.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. Get your caffeine fix at home for a fraction of the cost.

In case you’re a millennial and haven’t heard, your out of control coffee spending habits (and affinity for avocado toast) are ruining any chances you might have of future financial success. But don’t panic, this Bodum’s for you! Less expensive, easier to use, and faster than an electronic coffee maker, a French press is a fantastic way to drink as much coffee as you’d like without putting a significant dent in your wallet (or retirement savings).

This particular Bodum makes 34 ounces of coffee (or loose tea) which is the perfect amount for two people (or, if you’re like me, one caffeine lover).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00430C92U”]Bodum Brazil French Press Coffee Maker 34 Ounces, $17.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. A Sheet Pan That Can Do It All

Buy one, two, or even three of these incredibly useful Bellemain sheet pans for your kitchen and get ready to use them for all kinds of kitchen projects. Made from extra-strong aluminum, these sheet pans evenly distribute heat and won’t warp (a common problem with too-thin baking sheets). These sheet pans aren’t non-stick, so you’ll need to make sure they’ve been greased or lined with a Silpat, parchment paper, or aluminum foil before using.

These rimmed pans are ideal for sheet pan dinners, whole chicken and other large cuts of meats, cookies, meringues, bars, broiled or baked fish, and roasted vegetables.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AGQ027S”]Bellemain Heavy Duty Aluminum Half Sheet Pan, $14.50 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. A Hand Blender That Fits In Your Kitchen Drawer

The season of comforting, creamy soups is almost upon us, and this powerful little hand blender from OXA Smart will help the soup-making process go that much smoother. Forget waiting until your unblended soup has cooled down before messily transferring it to a regular, stand-up blender and switch to pureeing ingredients directly in the stockpot. This hand blender can also work its magic with individual smoothies, makes quick work of pesto, and whips up a delicious chunky salsa or tomato sauce in seconds.

This hand blender also comes with a whisk attachment, which means you can give your arms a rest the next time you make whipped cream, meringue, or hollandaise sauce.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076GW89V9″]OXA Smart Powerful 2-in-1 Hand Blender, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. A Surprising Kitchen Tool the Professionals Swear By

Anyone who works in a professional kitchen will tell you the importance of having a dry side towel (or two) handy at all times. Side towels can be used to maintain a strong grip, grab hot handles and dishes, and dry your hands. Several years ago, I had an accident involving a dull knife and an uneven cutting board that resulted in several stitches on my middle finger; I now take the precaution of placing a damp kitchen towel under the cutting board to prevent slippage (and I keep my knives sharp).

These basic flour-sack kitchen towels from Utopia Kitchen can also be used to dry and store greens (gently roll up and store in the crisper), to tidy up portioned food before serving, and for general kitchen cleaning.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XK69NRW”]Utopia Kitchen 12 Pack Flour-Sack Towels, $16.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Protect yourself from burns with these extra-long oven mitts.

Made from flexible silicone that’s heat-resistant up to 450 degrees, these oven mitts will protect your skin from burns if you’re removing food from a hot oven, grabbing multiple scalding dishes at once, barbecuing, or draining large pots of steaming pasta. Lined with a quilted cotton-polyester blend and available in seven different colors to suit any taste (or kitchen color scheme), these extra-long mitts are a wise investment for any home cook.

To clean, remove the cloth lining, hand wash, and hang to dry; the silicone shell can be easily washed in the dishwasher.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WUDQ61W”]Extra Long Professional Silicone Oven Mitts, $11.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. Show off your colorful side with this whimsical serving tray.

With its bright chevron pattern, this serving platter from French Bull will add a funky pop of vivid color to any dinner party. Made from scratch- and shatter-resistant melamine, this tray is perfect for people who seemingly break dishes just by looking at them (not that I would know anything about that), so go ahead and use this tray outdoors if you’re barbecuing, camping, or having a picnic.

If you’re looking for the full psychedelically patterned dishware experience, French Bull also makes appetizer dishes, soft cheese and dip spreaders, and serving spoons.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/French-Bull-Rectangular-Platter-Dinnerware/dp/B079KLLHHN/”]19” Melamine Platter, $15.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. Make muffins and more with this versatile tin.

Baking is definitely not my favorite thing (at least, having to do the baking itself, I obviously love eating baked goods) but I use my muffin tins ALL. THE. TIME. Some of my favorite uses include making miniature versions of the following entrees: crustless quiche, meatloaf, lasagna, shepherd’s pie, and vegetable gratin. I also use my muffin tins to hard boil eggs for a crowd, make puff pastry or egg roll wrapper appetizer nests, and set frozen yogurt bites with granola.

This muffin tin from USA Pan is coated with Americoat non-stick silicone coating, which also happens to be PTFE, PFOA and BPA free. Treat this muffin tin like you would any non-stick product, using a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth and mild detergent to clean.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001IANICS”]USA Pan Bakeware Cupcake and Muffin Pan, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. Use this mat to protect yourself when standing.

If you’re like me and you spend a significant amount of time standing in the kitchen, an anti-fatigue mat is one piece of equipment your entire body will thank you for. This NewLife anti-fatigue mat is five-eighths of an inch thick and made from non-skid ergonomic foam, which provides support for your feet, calves, hips, and back while you’re preparing food or doing the dishes.

Those who spend a lot of time in the kitchen will also advise wearing supportive shoes (there’s actually a good reason why professional cooks wear Crocs and it has nothing to do with controversial fashion choices). When you’re working, make sure you move around as much as possible—even gentle foot and leg movements help with blood circulation and muscle soreness.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MVYIADM”]NewLife by GelPro Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Floor Mat, $24.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

18. Catch the cast iron wave.

One of the most useful pieces of cookware of all time, cast iron pans can be used to roast meat and vegetables, make Dutch pancakes, frittatas, and paella, and are quite possibly the absolute best tool for reheating pizza ever. At 12” in diameter, this pre-seasoned Calphalon cast iron pan is the right size for almost any kitchen project.

Cast iron cookware can last a lifetime, so it’s important to take good care of your skillet by following proper cleaning, seasoning, and storage protocol.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L4771OG”]Calphalon Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware, $23.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. The Only Non-Stick Product You’ll Ever Need

There’s a reason that Silpat’s non-stick baking mats are beloved by professional chefs and bakers all over the world: They’re durable, reliable, and can withstand an impressive range of temperatures (from -40 to 482 degrees Fahrenheit). Made from food-grade silicone, Silpat baking mats eliminate the need for parchment paper, aluminum foil, and greasing agents such as oil or cooking spray.

Whether you’re baking chicken breasts, broiling fish, roasting vegetables, or baking cookies, Silpat non-stick mats will prevent the frustrating problem of stuck-on foods. Silpat mats can be cleaned with hot soapy water, or do as I do and wash them upright in the dishwasher propped up between some tall plates or cutting boards.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00008T960″]Silpat Premium Non-Stick Silicone Baking Mat, $16.48 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. A Cute Apron for Every Body

If you’ve ever splattered tomato sauce all over the front of a favorite white shirt or doused your black pants in flour, you’ll appreciate this functional and adorable option from DII. Made from 100 percent machine-washable cotton and available in several different patterns and colors, this apron has extra-long 36” straps, making it a great fit for almost everybody (literally).

Fans of matching kitchen accessories will be pleased to discover that DII offers the same prints across a wide variety of products, including tea towels, tablecloths, and oven mitts.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N3AI60X”]DII Cotton Adjustable Buffalo Check Plaid Apron, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. The Magical Dishwand That Will Make Kitchen Cleanup a Snap

I freely admit there was a time when I doubted the total awesomeness of Scotch-Brite dishwands. How life-changing can a sponge on a dish soap-filled handle really be? As it turns out, very. Is hand-washing dishes easier and more efficient? Absolutely (although a word to the wise, sticky melted cheese can quickly ruin a dishwand, so let it cool and peel it off the dish before washing). After the dishes are done, you can use the dishwand to scrub your sink. Sprinkle baking soda over the sink first for a deep clean.

These dishwands aren’t strictly for the kitchen. I like to fill the extra handle with equal parts dish soap and white vinegar and use it as a shower and tub cleaner, too. The dishwand can be left in the shower and used to quickly give the area a once-over every other day or so, and this can also be repeated in the bathroom sink and along the countertops—just wipe any soap residue away with a damp towel.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CT42K2V”]Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Dishwands, $14.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. A Knife Sharpener That Does It All

There are many good reasons to keep your knife blades sharp, but according to the American Knife & Tool Institute, safety should be your first priority, “Sharp blades are actually safe blades. It takes less energy to make a cut with a sharp blade.” If your knives are in really rough shape, it’s wise to take them to the professionals for an initial sharpening, but after that, you can keep up the maintenance with this easy-to-use sharpener from TIDALY.

This ergonomically designed sharpener has a non-stick cushion on its base, making it extra-safe to use for at-home sharpenings. The three different sharpening slots are meant to be used in succession; the first slot works to repair and straighten blades, the second slot helps maintain shape, and the third slot is meant to give the blade a final polish.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GBTLN95″]TIDALY Kitchen Knife Sharpener, $12.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. A Humble Microplane (That Can Do Almost Anything)

Use this coarse microplane to finely grate aromatics or to rub them into a thick paste (this is especially useful when making salad dressings, marinades, and stir-fry sauces). The fine teeth on this microplane can work its magic on entire lemons, limes, and any other citrus fruits in under 30 seconds, leaving you with delicate ribbons of pungent, pith-free zest.

What else can you do with a microplane? For starters, you can shave chocolate directly onto desserts and hot drinks, grate a miniscule amount of fresh nutmeg over cheese sauces, and offer the tableside experience of freshly grated hard cheese the next time it’s pasta night.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Microplane-38000-Professional-Coarse-Grater/dp/B00009WE3Y”]Microplane 38000 Professional Coarse Grater, $14.49 from Amazon[/link-button]

24. The Tumbler Most Trusted By Restaurants

A restaurant industry darling for decades, Duralex is the original inventor of tempered glass (tempered glass is 2.5 times stronger than regular glass and if it does break, the pieces are rounded and less likely to cause an accident). I can personally testify to the strength of these glasses, having dropped them numerous times onto my stone kitchen floor only to have them bounce right back, free of any chips. Duralex glasses are also non-porous, which means they’re less likely to harbor bacteria and lingering smells.

Safe for the microwave, dishwasher, and refrigerator, these chic tumblers are also resistant to thermal shock (which means you don’t have to worry as much about pouring ice-cold water into a still-hot glass straight from the dishwasher).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KRABXEK”]Duralex Picardie High Ball Tumblers, $23.49 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. Use this holder to keep your place and prop up recipes.

We’ve all been there, carefully following a recipe from a beloved recipe book only to have the book snap shut mid-instruction. Instead of overextending the spine and marking the pages with food-stained hands, let this recipe holder from Greenco do the work for you (ditto for following recipes on your iPad or tablet).

Made of lightweight bamboo, this attractive holder folds into a compact rectangle and can be filed away with cutting boards and lids when it’s not in use. If the stand itself bears a few cake batter casualties, it can be washed with warm water and a gentle dish detergent.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019QRHRP8″]Greenco Bamboo Foldable Recipe Holder, $11.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. A Beautiful Teapot With a Built-In Infuser

If you love a good morning or afternoon cuppa, this beautiful teapot will add a touch of elegance to your teatime ritual. Rather than having to fiddle with tea balls and strainers, this teapot from Hiware has a stainless steel infuser built directly into the pot. While this teapot can technically go through the dishwasher on the top rack, the manufacturer recommends hand-washing whenever possible to prevent breakage (although this teapot does come with a two-year warranty).

As a collector of gourmet loose teas, this gorgeous teapot has brewed countless comforting cups of tea for myself and my guests. For a super-special treat, I’ll brew some of my very special (and very pricey) British Rose Pouchong tea, a delicate floral blend that is rumored to have been a favorite of Princess Diana’s.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZOLU1VI”]Hiware Glass Teapot and Infuser, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

27. Get your groove on while you’re cooking.

While technically not a kitchen appliance, this sleek little Bluetooth speaker from Anker gets a ton of use while I’m cooking. Available in five different colors and finishes, I’m always grateful for some auditory entertainment when I’m doing dishes or cooking, especially when I’m tending to time-consuming dishes like risotto, ratatouille, and prep for stir-fries.

When I’m not getting inspired by The Kitchen Sisters Present podcast from Radiotopia (or any other of my favorite entertaining foodie podcasts) I listen to audiobooks, music, and guided mindfulness exercises.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E6ZLLPW”]Anker SoundCore Bluetooth Speaker, $16.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. This retro-chic pitcher is perfect for iced tea.

Have you been keeping an eye out for a vintage-inspired pitcher with modern-day features? Look no further than this 68-ounce diamond pattern glass jug, which can safely hold liquids up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (meaning ice tea can be made directly in the pitcher with boiling water—no more waiting around for 24-hour cold brew).

If you’re a fan of big-batch cocktails containing plenty of fresh fruit, herbs, and ice cubes, this pitcher from JCPKitchen will allow you to serve concoctions of all kinds in style thanks to its filtered mouth (you can also flip the top up so the pitcher’s wide open).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071HJ692V”]Borosilicate Glass Pitcher with Lid, $24.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. Serve cheese in style (and with minimal crumbling).

Cheese and charcuterie boards are definitely having a moment thanks to social media, and this serving kit from Proper Goods will have you rushing to the nearest deli or cheese shop to make your own. While the whole chalk-on-slate look has been popular for the past couple of years, there’s actually a very practical reason why chalk labels are preferable to upright cheese labels: Sticking a cheese flag into a crumbly piece of fromage will likely cause the entire block to collapse.

Large enough to accommodate three to four pieces of cheese plus additional accouterments, this kit also makes a thoughtful gift for your cheese-loving friends.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0749DJ8L8″]Slate Cheese Board Serving Set, $16.49 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. Toaster Bags

If you’ve ever come across the popular grilled cheese hack on social media that involves melting cheese on bread with the toaster tipped sideways and felt tempted to try it, don’t. Instead, buy a 12-pack of toaster bags from Kitchemy and make as many toaster-grilled sandwiches as you’d like!

Each non-stick bag can be reused up to 50 times and—in addition to making grilled sandwiches—can also be leveraged when heating up leftovers in the toaster, microwave, toaster oven, or panini maker as they can withstand heat up to 500 degrees.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072FGB1ZK”]12-Pack of Toaster Bags, $14.87 from Amazon[/link-button]

31. Get your pantry in order with these sleek bag clips.

Say goodbye to that ever-expanding collection of stray rubber bands you’ve been using to secure bags and say hello to these sleek stainless steel clips from DanziX. Stale chips, spilled coffee grounds, and exploding bags of not-quite-sealed rice will be a thing of the past when you have a collection of these clips handy. I also like to use these all-purpose clips to keep newer or not-as-frequently used recipe books open to the correct page (while they’re propped up on my foldable stand).

With many reviewers saying these are the best clips ever invented, there’s no reason to rely on iffy closure methods any longer!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/DanziX-Stainless-Durable-Coffee-Kitchen/dp/B075GKMB3Z”]DanziX 10-Pack Stainless Steel Bag Clips, $10.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. Discover a magnetic method for organizing your spices.

One of the best kitchen storage solutions ever invented, these magnetic spice tins from Nosiva are a godsend for spice storage. Not only do the magnetic tins keep your spices tidy, but they also help prevent accidental overstock (I’m currently guilty of having four bags of ground cumin in my cupboards at this very moment). With 96 pre-printed spice labels and 24 blank labels for custom blends and rare spices, this kit will forever change the way you organize your herbs and spices.

These tins can also be used outside of the kitchen and are ideal for storing small office supplies and toiletries (stick them to magnetic surfaces such as filing cabinets or the back of your medicine cabinet).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076P82LYR”]Magnetic Spice Tins, $23.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

33. Never deal with too-cold butter again.

Trying to spread ice-cold butter on toast is one of life’s greatest frustrations (okay, not really, but it is annoying). You can keep your butter at room temperature without worrying about spoilage thanks to these charming butter dishes from Sweese. They’re available in six vibrant hues and are sealed with a beautiful beechwood lid (which also doubles as a small cutting board).

While this butter dish is meant to keep butter at room temperature, it can also be used to store blocks of firm cheese in the refrigerator.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075K6P6F3″]Sweese Large Turquoise Butter Dish, $21.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. A Cleaning Concentrate That Smells Like Heaven

I’ll be honest, the first time I bought this Mrs. Meyer’s multi-surface cleaner it was 100 percent because it was basil-scented, which is something that’s hard to find in perfume and beauty products, let alone cleaning supplies. This multi-purpose cleaner doesn’t quite replicate the smell of actual fresh basil but it does smell wonderful: faintly sweet, herbaceous, and clean.

This cleaner is a concentrate, so you’ll need to mix 1 gallon of water with a fourth cup of cleaning solution (or make just enough to fill these pretty and reusable spray bottles). It’s safe for most surfaces including hardwood, laminate, granite, countertops, and bathroom tiling—as long as they’ve been sealed. Keep in mind that although this cleaner contains ingredients with natural antibacterial properties, it isn’t actually considered an antibacterial spray.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MDPI0AI”]Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Cleaner, $12.50 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. Keep everything nice and neat (including the kitchen sink).

Buying a sink caddy may not seem like the most exciting purchase in the world, but trust me when I say that this little gadget will instantly declutter your kitchen sink area (and look good while it’s working).

This OXO Good Grips caddy sits right on top of your counter and can hold sponges, dishwands, scrub brushes, and a narrow dish soap dispenser. If you have larger items to store, the divider insert can easily be removed to make extra room.
Best of all, there is a small reservoir underneath the caddy where water can drain off, which will extend the life of sponges while keeping unpleasant odors at bay.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N06UEH4″]OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Sinkware Caddy, $19.99 from Amazon [/link-button]

36. A Cute Set of Multi-Purpose Ramekins

If you’ve ever ordered crème brûlée from a restaurant, chances are it was served in a ramekin, a small ceramic dish that can withstand the high heat of an oven and the force of a culinary blow torch. These pretty little Lifver 5-ounce ramekins are dishwasher safe and ideal for home cooks looking to try their hands at a classic homemade brûlée.

Ramekins are great to have on hand for mise en place (a French culinary term that means “everything in its place”) when you’re cooking at home, especially for minced aromatics. Ramekins can also be used to neatly display dips, jellies, and mustards on cheese and charcuterie boards.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XNQV562″]Lifver Ceramic Ramekins, $14.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. A Food Processor With All the Power (and Half of the Size)

There’s no denying the impact a food processor can have in the kitchen: They can chop, mince, pulse, and blend ingredients quickly and without very much effort on the cook’s behalf. They can, however, take up plenty of kitchen counter real estate. This little 3-cup food processor from Hamilton Beach gives you the best of both worlds: powerful chopping action without a too-large size or extra-heavy base.

When not in use, this compact food processor can be stowed away with all of its parts. And while we’re on the topic of parts, the food processor bowl, blade, and lid are all dishwasher safe.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y2GZWCJ”]Hamilton Beach 3-Cup Food Processor, $20.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social

In Season Lifestyle

Don't Miss Out: These Are The 38 Toys Every Kid Will Want This Holiday Season

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date October 1, 2018

When it comes to holiday gift shopping, there’s no time like the present. Snatching up hot-ticket items before they run out can make the difference between a happy holiday and a downright debacle (we’re looking at you, Tickle Me Elmo).

Getting the inside scoop on what’s hot this gift-giving season can make you a hero in the eyes of the child in your life—instead of the only person who wasn’t able to score that perfect present. Fortunately, we’ve got our fingers on the pulse of the 12-and-under set. Here are the toys that will be in high demand on Amazon this winter:

1. Here’s a monster kids aren’t afraid of.

What has two eyes, a soft, huggable belly, and a mouth full of gnarly teeth? If you said a Fuggler, you’re right. With a mouth full of realistic adult-sized teeth and a face only a mother could love, these creatures are so ugly they’re cute.

The little one in your life will love snuggling up to these plush toys, regardless of the unconventional look. These adorable monsters even come with their own adoption certificates!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Fuggler-Monster-Awkward-Deluxe-Creature/dp/B07GC7L6ZT”]Fuggler Ugly Monster Plush, $27.67 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. This game combines food and fun.

Looking for a fun game the whole family can enjoy? Look no further than Chow Crown. Children and adults of all ages can enjoy this food-friendly game. Simply put the crown on your head, stick pieces of food onto the forks, then try your best to swing the food into your mouth.

Whoever has the most empty forks when the music stops wins the game! Have a few belly laughs while watching your kids try to grab the food as it spins around their heads. Funny faces are guaranteed.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-E2420-Chow-Crown-Game/dp/B0772229CR”]Chow Crown, $16.82 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. This interactive pup performs tricks—and leaves the occasional mess.

Take your gift game to the next level with this interactive toy dog. He eats, barks, licks his friends, and even performs tricks. Behold furReal Ricky, the Trick-Lovin’ Pup, a battery-operated dog that is almost as fun as the real thing, with a whole lot less responsibility required.

Not your average toy, Ricky’s a clever little guy. His tricks include flipping bones, shaking hands, and barking out his favorite song. He even eats treats! Of course, those meals may lead to an accident—but that only adds to the fun!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/furReal-Ricky-the-Trick-Lovin-Pup/dp/B076QJHFF9″]furReal Ricky, the Treat Lovin’ Pup; $129.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. Bring the arcade to your home with this miniature working claw machine.

Kids love claw machines. Don’t believe us? Just wait until you see how much fun the kids in your life will have with the Original Claw Machine Playset from Moj Moj.

Use the three directional joysticks to grab your prize before the music runs out, or simply have fun grabbing the treats at your own pace. This miniature arcade staple comes with six single Moj Moj mystery packs that you can refill with surprises of your own. Earn some serious bonus points with this next-level present.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Moj-Original-Claw-Machine-Playset/dp/B07BMYP8M4″]The Original Claw Machine Playset, $49.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. Your feet may hate these blocks, but children sure don’t.

If your child loves to build—or you’d like to kickstart their creativity—this Lego Classic Medium Creative Brick Box is the perfect holiday choice. With 484 pieces in 35 different colors, kids can create just about anything they want with these easy-to-hold bricks.

This kit includes a base plate and other fun accessories like windows, eyes, and tires, so there’s no end to what kids can build. These Legos ship in a reusable storage box, reducing the chance that they’ll end up all over your floor.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LEGO-Classic-Medium-Creative-Brick/dp/B00NHQFA1I”]Lego Classic Medium Creative Brick Box, $27.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. Put out fires during the holidays with this toy truck.

Calling all pups! If PAW Patrol is a favorite in your home, this Ultimate Rescue Fire Truck is a must-have. Your kids will have a ball saving the day with Marshall’s fire truck, which features an extendable 2-foot ladder, a working claw arm, and water cannons.

With flashing lights and sounds, this battery-operated truck looks like the real deal. Parents enjoy the hours of entertainment the truck provides, and kids love opening the compartments and pressing all of the buttons. Make your holiday lit with this exciting toy!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/PAW-Patrol-Ultimate-Rescue-Extendable/dp/B07B83HP9Q”]PAW Patrol Ultimate Rescue Ultimate Fire Truck, $59.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. Even muggles will enjoy this coding wand.

With the Kano Harry Potter Coding Kit, kids can build a working wand straight out of the Wizarding World and learn how to code, all at the same time. Children create a wand that responds to their movements by following the step-by-step instructions.

Connected to a tablet or computer, this wand offers over 70 creative challenges that teach coding, as well as loops, logic, and variables. Combine magic and education with this interactive toy that’s perfect for ages 6 and older.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Kano-Harry-Potter-Coding-Kit/dp/B07C7X8LG9″]Harry Potter Coding Kit, $99.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. You can’t escape the fun of this game.

What should you do if you’re exposed to a virus that can turn you into a werewolf? Find out with Escape Room in a Box: The Werewolf Experiment.

Inspired by Escape Room experiences, this problem-solving game gives participants one hour to solve puzzles, crack codes, and find hidden clues in an attempt to defeat the virus. Work by yourself or in teams to figure it all out, and sync the game with Alexa to heighten the experience.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Escape-Room-Box-Werewolf-Experiment/dp/B0752PGG2K”]Escape Room in a Box: The Werewolf Experiment, $21.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

9. This is the house is where dreams are made.

Barbie has lived in some swank places before, but this just may be the swankiest. Introducing the latest Barbie Dreamhouse. Ken, Chelsea, and the rest of the gang can hang in this 3-feet-by-4-feet-tall, three-story home that comes equipped with a working elevator, office, bedroom, carport, and more.

Fill up the home’s pool with water and send Barbie down the waterslide for a serious splash. This posh pad even comes with transformable furniture and 70 accessories. All of that translates into more opportunities for fun!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Barbie-FHY73-DreamHouse/dp/B079JCZMMK”]Barbie Dreamhouse, $179 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. You’re a genius if you get this fun and educational game.

Turn your child’s tablet into an educational tool that combines fun and learning. All you need is the Osmo Genius Kit.

Five award-winning games teach your child math, reading, language arts, physics, and more, all in a fun and engaging way. Foster creativity, problem solving skills, and critical thinking in an entertaining environment with this clever tool.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Osmo-Genius-Kit/dp/B071FN6KXK”]Osmo Genius Kit, $99.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. You never know what you’re going to get with this doll.

If your child likes surprises—and dolls— they’re sure to love what they find inside their first Hairdorables box. Kids discover this “hairmazing” doll by peeling away panels on the packaging, slowly revealing 11 surprises that clue you in to the character’s personality.

These dolls feature lots of long and gorgeous hair, so your child can have tons of fun creating endless amounts of hairstyles. For ages 3 and older, these mystery boxes are perfect for the kiddo who has a passion for styling hair.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hairdorables-Collectible-Surprise-Accessories-Styles/dp/B07BS2Q2XJ”]Hairdorables, $12.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. Your child’s eyes will light up when they see this toy.

These loveable and wearable interactive pom-poms are soft, fluffy, and super smart! With over 50 reactions, Pomsies plush interactive toys are sure to keep your child entertained! Similar to a Hatchimal, this cute fluff ball’s eyes light up and it makes different noises to let you know what it needs.

Pomsies are kind of like Fingerlings, too, because they clip onto objects with their tails. Many who already own the toy suggest that you read the instructions thoroughly to discover all of the toy’s interactive features.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Pomsies-Snowball-Plush-Interactive-White/dp/B07DK842QC”]Pomsies, $14.82 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. Pony up an amazing present with this rideable toy.

If the child in your life wants a pony for the holidays, but taking care of livestock isn’t really your thing, consider giving this Rideamals Pony a try. Named Scout, this interactive ride-on toy makes over 100 unique noises and motions.

Your child can walk, ride, and feed Scout, as well as watch it perform a dance. This adorable horse also moves its head, ears, and eyes. It even makes eating noises. Make sure you have a lot of space before investing in this large toy; one reviewer warns it needs a lot of room to maneuver.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Adorable-Rideamals-Interactive-Movements-Including/dp/B07FQ9TW1W”]Kid Trax Rideamals Ride-On Pony, $537.91 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Give a gift—and teach a lesson—with this toy pet.

Give the gift of philanthropy—along with a super-cute toy—when you present your little one with a Little Live Scruff-A-Luv. The Scruff-A-Luv is an abandoned animal that finds a home when it is adopted by your child. Dirty and matted, the toy needs a little TLC in order to tidy up and reveal its identity.

After you give the little guy a bath, you’ll find out if you’ve just adopted a kitty, bunny, or puppy! And when you purchase a Scruff-A-Luv, the manufacturer donates a portion of the proceeds to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Little-Live-30002-Scruff-A-Luvs-Blue/dp/B079FWWQDB”]Scruff-A-Luv, $31.09 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. This robot is both a friend and a teacher.

A toy robot that teaches kids how to code sounds like something out of science fiction, but that’s exactly what you get with Cozmo, the interactive toy robot.

Full of personality, this electronic sidekick comes with hundreds of emotions and a passion for learning. He loves to play games and can even teach your child how to code. Simply hook it up to your iOS or Android device and watch this cool toy come alive.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Anki-Cozmo-robotics-adults-coding/dp/B074WC4NHW”]Cozmo, the Interactive Toy Robot, $179.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. This play set is perfect for future veterinarians.

Give your little pet-lover a gift that is both fun and educational with the Melissa and Doug Examine and Treat Pet Vet Play Set. This 24-piece kit comes with a stethoscope, thermometer, syringe, tweezers, and all of the other tools needed to provide the best care for stuffed animals.

The set also comes with a pair of plush patients to get your veterinarian-in-training started. Examine, diagnosis, and treat stuffed animals with this collection that teaches kids medicine, as well as empathy.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-Examine-Treat-Play/dp/B074L8RV1F”]Melissa and Doug Examine and Treat Play Set, $27.56 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. Get glam, glitter, and more with this doll.

Who doesn’t love a super-cute doll that’s full of surprises? If the child in your life feels the same way, make sure you add this L.O.L. Surprise! Glam Glitter Series doll to your gift list.

The spherical package—which can also double as a carrying case—contains seven surprises, including a Glam Glitter doll, stickers, a fashion accessory, and more. Bathe or feed your doll to discover if she cries, tinkles, spits up, or changes colors.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/L-L-Surprise-Glam-Glitter/dp/B07BHQ14L9″]L.O.L. Surprise! Glam Glitter Series doll, $10.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

18. Color and science collide in this lab set for kids.

Excite your child’s inner colorologist with the Crayola Color Chemistry Lab Set. Kids ages 7 and older can try their hands at 50 different experiments and projects designed by Crayola scientists.

Watch as kids learn about technology, art, science, math, and engineering, all while having some colorful fun! Kids can make glow worms, erupting volcanoes, and more with this hands-on, educational toy.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Crayola-Color-Chemistry-Steam-Activities/dp/B07B958BPR”]Crayola Color Chemistry Lab Set, $24.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. Dinosaurs are no match for this off-road vehicle.

Present your young dinosaur-chaser with this Power Wheel Jurassic Park Jeep Wrangler for the holidays and you’re sure to get a high five—or high claw, if you’re not careful. This battery-operated four-wheel vehicle is safe, durable, and full of fun.

With a sturdy frame that supports up to 130 pounds and brakes that automatically stop the vehicle when the child’s foot comes off of the pedal, this functional electric car helps to keep all riders safe. And with a real working light bar and cool dinosaur and “chase” sounds, this toy is “roaring” with excitement!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Power-Wheels-Jurassic-World-Wrangler/dp/B0751XSNXP”]Power Wheels Jurassic Park Jeep Wrangler, $287.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. This doll is so realistic it does the potty dance.

If your kid wants to take care of a doll that acts just like a baby, then this may be the hot ticket item you’ve been looking for. The Potty Dance Baby allows your child to help potty train the doll, while also creating a special bond.

This life-like toy does the “potty dance,” blinks, speaks, drinks water, and goes to the bathroom in the potty. The Potty Dance baby speaks 50 different phrases in English or Spanish and comes with a chart and sticker to mark her progress.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Alive-Potty-Dance-Black/dp/B076QV1MX3″]Baby Alive Potty Dance Baby, $48.82 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. Wear these pets as jewelry, play with them, or both.

Promote creativity, fun, and fashion with the Twisty Petz collectible bracelet set. Twisty Petz are glitzy and fabulous toy animals that can turn into bracelets, necklaces, and charms. Simply connect the animals together to create a one-of-a-kind statement piece.

With a variety of finishes and colors from which to choose, you can create jewelry that is perfect for every outfit and mood. And when you’re done wearing them, separate the animals for some adorable imaginative play.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Twisty-Petz-Marigold-Pupsicle-Collectible/dp/B07C9BWRY8″]Twisty Petz, $14.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. The toy that “attacks” with a push of its tummy.

If the Incredibles 2 movie is popular in your home, you’ll want to check out the Jack-Jack Attacks playset. Jack-Jack is a polymorph with multiple hidden abilities, and you never know what he’s going to do.

Touch his tummy to hear him laugh, and continue pressing it to see him change into his other personalities. Jack-Jack’s raccoon pal is included in the set, allowing your child to create an epic battle between the two!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Incredibles-Jack-Jack-Plush-Figure-Features-Raccoon/dp/B0743LPYDH”]Jack-Jack Attacks Playset, $29.84 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. You’ll actually encourage your child to crack these eggs.

Ever wonder where baby Hatchimals come from? You can find out with the Hatchimal CollEGGtible Egg Carton. Look inside the sparkly carton and you’ll find 10 decorated eggs and two already-hatched Hatchimals waiting inside.

It is up to you to encourage the other Hatchimals to emerge from their shells, and you can do so by warming up the toy egg in your hand. Display, store, and carry the tiny toys in the carton.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hatchimals-CollEGGtibles-Season-12-Pack-Carton/dp/B071F8W8RL”]Hatchimals CollEGGtible Egg Carton, $16.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

24. Crashing cars is encouraged with this play set.

It has twists, loops, and high-speed boosters. It creates the perfect backdrop for some of the most epic crashes. It’s the Hot Wheels Corkscrew Crash Track Set.

To get the fun started, launch your car from the motorized speed boosters, then watch it race through the three corkscrew turns at amazing speeds. Try not to crash out or collide with other cars on the track, although it could make things even more fun if you do! This large set allows you to launch three cars at the same time. It includes a drop-in ramp to add even more vehicles to the chaos.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Wheels-Corkscrew-Crash-Track/dp/B079KHS5S9″]Hot Wheels Corkscrew Crash Track Set, $48.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. Recreate a classic with this Lego set.

The child in your life can build their own ship in a bottle with this Lego Ideas set. Build a ship complete with master’s quarters, cannons, flags, and a mast inside of a bottle that features a buildable cork and wax seal element.

When it’s finished, display your piece of art on the included stand that has a nameplate and a compass. According to customer reviews, this 962-piece advanced building set is perfect for experienced Lego builders, but may be too difficult for those just starting out.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LEGO-Ideas-Bottle-21313-Building/dp/B078VVLQ6J”]Lego Ideas Ship in a Bottle Set, $60.42 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. Food is life for this baby dino.

Take care of your own interactive—and hungry—baby dinosaur with the furReal Muchin’ Rex. Just like most youngsters, this little guy lives for food. Watch as he hops and begs for treats.

Be careful, though—he might chomp on your finger or spit the treats out. When waved at or fed, this baby dino responds with over 35 sound-and-motion combinations. This toy also makes cool dinosaur habitat sounds and comes with a bottle, treats, and instructions.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Fur-Real-Friends-E0387-furReal/dp/B076QJ95BB”]furReal Muchin’ Rex, $47.72 from Amazon[/link-button]

27. Encourage creativity and strong vocal chords with this karaoke machine.

Let your little one be a star with the Vtech Kidi Star Karaoke Machine. This clever device mutes out the main vocals in included songs or those you import to make your child the star of the show.

With a light-up disco ball, LCD screen, six built-in games, a voice changer that has five different voice features, fun sound effects, and eight original songs, this potential present is a real show-stopper.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/VTech-Kidi-Karaoke-Machine-Purple/dp/B07B737XBW”]Vtech Kidi Star Karaoke Machine, $49.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. They see you rolling, and helping, with this toy ambulance.

If the Barbie fan in your life also has a passion for medicine, you’ll want to get this Barbie Care Clinic Vehicle, STAT. Respond to calls and give care as needed with this fierce ambulance that also doubles as a treatment room.

Lift the lever in the back and watch as this rolling ambulance turns into a treatment center that features three distinct areas: a check-in station, a waiting area, and an exam room. With over 20 themed pieces, this ambulance is full of fun—and helpful—surprises.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Barbie-FRM19-Care-Clinic-Vehicle/dp/B079JBMVFW”]Barbie Care Clinic Vehicle $52.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. Super kids can become superheroes with this toy.

Why wait for a superhero when you can become one yourself? With the littleBits Avengers Hero Inventor Kit, your young one can train to become a formidable superhero. With fun and customizable activities, kids can unleash their creative potential and invent superhero identities and powers.

Hook the kit up to your smart device and use inventions like night vision, light powers, and a speed tracker to further enhance your training. And best of all, no adults are needed for this toy; easy-to-follow instructions geared toward youngsters are included.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/littleBits-Avengers-Hero-Inventor-Kit/dp/B07BDZZRR3″]littleBits Avengers Hero Inventor Kit, $149.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. This Pie Face game is a blast.

Take your pie in the face experience to a whole new level with the Pie Face Cannon Game. Instead of rolling the dial and inflicting whipped cream disaster on yourself, this game allows you to target your opponents, instead.

Use the cannon to send a wallop of whipped cream toward the other player. But watch out! Your challenger can stop the cream with a blocking hand. For ages 5 and older, this game is sure to provide hours of messy family fun.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-E1972-Face-Cannon-Game/dp/B07722GWF3″]Pie Face Cannon, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

31. No matter whose house you’re in, you’ll love this Lego set.

If your child can’t spend time in the Hogwarts Great Hall in real life, this could be the next best thing. The Lego Harry Potter Hogwarts Great Hall Building Kit allows children to create a significant piece of Harry Potter memorabilia all by themselves. With four levels and a spiral staircase, this Great Hall definitely lives up to its name.

Recommended for ages 9 and older, this 878-piece set includes house banners, a sorting hat, and 10 mini-characters, including Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Draco Malfoy, and Hagrid. Reviewers say it takes around four hours to build, so pull up a chair and bond with the kiddo in your life while recreating movie magic.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LEGO-75954-Potter-Hogwarts-Building/dp/B07BKPKT2X”]Lego Hogwarts Great Hall Kit, $99.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. This tiny robot proves that big smarts can come in small packages.

Help your child grasp the basics of coding with the Ozobot Bit Coding Robot. The pocket-sized robot teaches beginners how to code with two different methods. With the help of a special marker, the child can draw commands that the Bit will respond to.

Kids can also use the advanced program editor to create Bit code. This small robotic ball comes with an activity pack loaded with exercises that can help your child learn even more about basic coding and robotics concepts.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Ozobot-Bit-Coding-Robot-Blue/dp/B01M8F2QG5″]Ozobot Bit Coding Robot, $44.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

33. Surprise your real baby with these toy babies.

Join the L.O.L Surprise gals as they go on their latest undercover mission with this Biggie Pet Dollmation set. The L.O.L. team is searching for clues that will lead to the whereabouts of their kidnapped pets. Your child can help solve the mystery with the fun accessories included in this set.

Look for secret clues among more than 15 surprises included with the toy, including glasses, a necklace, and a wishbone. But perhaps the biggest mystery of all is how many babies are hiding inside your set. Find out and look for clues to solve this puzzling crime!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/L-O-L-Surprise-Biggie-Pet-Dollmation/dp/B07BHPPT1W”]L.O.L. Surprise! Biggie Pet Dollmation Set, $34.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. This could be the best toy of the holidays, hands down—or should we say “paws down?”

If your child wants a puppy for the holidays but you don’t relish the thought of taking care of a real dog, give the Little Live Pets Snuggles toy a try. This soft, interactive puppy moves and feels like a real dog with over 35 sounds and six modes.

Feed the puppy its bottle, pat its head, and rub its belly to reveal the puppy’s responses. Watch the puppy’s tummy move in and out as it breathes, and take a look at how the eyes close when Snuggles is sleeping. Get the fun of a puppy—without all of the work—with this cute and cuddly canine.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Little-Live-Pets-Snuggles-Dream/dp/B01CTVWFHI”]Little Live Pets Snuggles My Dream Puppy, $44.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. This educational toy teaches compassion and care.

Help your favorite youngster provide the best care possible to their dolls by giving them the Disney Junior Doc McStuffins Baby All-in-One Nursery set. This baby nursery is loaded with everything a kid needs to take care of sick dolls.

Use Doc’s laptop to diagnose the problem. Check the doll’s heartbeat with the stethoscope, measure height and weight with special tools, and kiss boo-boos “bye-bye” with special doll bandages. Encourage your child’s empathy and love of medicine with this educational toy.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Disney-Doc-Mcstuffins-Baby-Nursery/dp/B072PXCXSL”]Doc McStuffins Baby Nursery Set, $64.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

36. You’ll want to race to get this toy.

Experience the rush of professional drone racing—without the high costs and danger—with the Air Hogs DR1 FPV Race Drone. Designed for children ages 10 and older, this racing set comes with a headset for your smartphone, a durable drone, and lots of fun the whole family can enjoy.

Thanks to the drone’s camera, you can watch it fly through the sky from a first-person perspective when you look through the headset. Capture thrilling footage you can share with your friends, or simply enjoy the feeling of soaring through the air without ever leaving the ground.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Air-Hogs-DR1-Race-Drone/dp/B01N41LVJ5″]Air Hogs DR1 FPV Race Drone, $42.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. Silly faces aren’t optional with this game.

What do you get when you combine a classic card game with adorable emojis? If you guessed the Mattel Games UNO Emoji card game, you’re correct. The rules are basically the same as the classic UNO, except you get to play with cards that feature popular emojis.

However, a few special emoji cards are thrown in that require players to imitate and capture their favorite emoji expressions! Perfect for two to 10 players ages 7 and up, this game provides fun and can help children with their memory and color skills.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Mattel-Games-Emoji-Card-Game/dp/B01IX1KIP4″]Mattel Games UNO Emoji card game, $6.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

38. Add your favorite scent to homemade nail polish.

What’s even more fun than wearing nail polish? Making it, of course! Let your little one’s creativity and imagination run wild with this Num Noms Nail Polish Maker toy.

With one nail polish base, three nail polish scents, glitter, and stickers, your little one can create the nail art of their dreams. After you apply the custom polish to your nails, use the finger rests for drying—they even double as booth seats for Num Nom toys. Make the child in your life’s next manicure even sweeter with this creative toy.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Num-Noms-Nail-Polish-Maker/dp/B0728L8V1H”]Num Noms Polish Maker Toy, $10.52 from Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social

Lifestyle Well-Traveled

Gear On The Go: 40 Travel Products You Need Before You Take Your Next Trip

Post author By Meagan Drillinger
Post date September 27, 2018

Packing is an art, especially for avid travelers. Those of us who love to travel have long-since mastered the art of packing Tetris. Still, there are a lot of fun, useful, and downright cool travel supplies out there that can raise the bar for even the most experienced globetrotter.
Whether you’re trying to pack like a minimalist, incorporate new aspects of wellness into your travel routine, or simply prepare for any situation, there are lots of wonderful products out there that can make your life on the road easier, without spending a fortune. Here are 40 affordable suggestions for travel gadgets that are going to put a new spin on the way you see the world.

1. The Suitcase Cubes That Compartmentalize Your Life

Raise your hand if you break a sweat every time you try to zip your suitcase. Let’s face it: Packing can be a total nightmare. Enter packing cubes. Avid travelers from professional bloggers to flight attendants swear by them, as they neatly compartmentalize your closet and fit like puzzle pieces into your suitcase.

This six-piece set fits into most types of suitcases or backpacks, and comes in various sizes for everything from socks and underwear to shirts and shoes.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Packing-Various-Travel-Luggage-Organizers/dp/B01IB8QD9E”]Travel luggage packing organizers, $21.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. The Suitcase That Always Fits in the Overhead

Minimalists have mastered the art of “less is more,” but it can be tricky to apply that mantra to packing for a vacation. If you tend to pack way more than you wear, this easy-to-carry minimalist suitcase is perfect for you.

At four inches wide, it’s actually way better than a carry-on. Here’s how it works: Put your shirts, pants, underwear, and socks inside and simply roll it up. An included hanging hook makes the suitcase into a portable closet when you reach your destination. You’ll never pay checked baggage fees again.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Rolo-Adventures-LLC-Portable-Roll-Up/dp/B00KEDAKR6/”]Portable roll-up travel bag, $44.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. The Document Wallet That Makes Airport Security a Breeze

With the stress of airport security, long lines, and flight delays, the last thing you need is to frantically rummage in your purse for your travel documents. Show up prepared with the this passport wallet from Zoppen.

Made from eco-friendly PU leather, this organizer offers travel protection with RFID-blocking material and room for one passport, one boarding pass, three credit cards, one ID, one slim card pouch, one cell phone, a key holder, and more.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Zoppen-Multi-purpose-Travel-Wallet-Ver-4/dp/B071VRKDDN”]Travel passport wallet and organizer, $15 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. The Toiletry Organizer That Saves on Sink Space…

How many times have you checked into a hotel and found that sink space was, well, limited? Skip the annoyance of having to keep your toiletries scattered on various surfaces; hang them neatly in one place instead.

The Oimimy travel toiletry bag keeps all of your precious potions in one place, plus it comes with a non-slip metal hook for hanging it on the backs of doors or on a towel rack. It has multiple storage areas, as well as leakproof and water-resistant compartments.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Toiletry-Tolietree-Travel-Hanging-Organizer/dp/B07BTWNB65″]Hanging cosmetic travel organizer, $18 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. The Backpack Designed for Minimalists

Packing for an active vacation isn’t always the easiest. Who wants to lug around a cumbersome daypack in addition to a suitcase? And who has the room to fit it all?

The Venture Pal Backpack is not only lightweight and durable, but also entirely collapsible. It folds neatly into a zipped inner pocket to fit almost anywhere. This bag offers up to 35 liters of packing space, but weighs less than a pound.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Venture-Pal-Ultralight-Lightweight-Packable/dp/B01BY6UDEQ/”]Packable travel hiking backpack, $20.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. The Gadget That Carries All Your Carry-Ons in One

As much as you may want to limit your luggage to one suitcase and one personal item, sometimes you just need to bring more—especially if you’re traveling with the family. Got your brood in tow? This multi-bag stacker makes carrying multiple suitcases at once a breeze (or as breezy as possible, at least).

Comfortably pull up to four suitcases with one hand with the Travelon Multi-Bag Stacker. Simply attach the buckle around each of the handles and pull together in neat succession.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Travelon-Multi-Bag-Stacker-Black-Size/dp/B001CZL0BU/”]Multi-bag stacker, $10.89 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. The Toiletry Set That Packs All Your Potions

As we get older, the amount of lotions and creams we need seems to increase exponentially. This can lead to impossible choices, like, say, when you’re forced to choose between a face mask and moisturizer. The solution is simple: invest in TSA-approved travel bottles.

With these bottles, you can bring all of your favorite spa products without overpacking your suitcase. Plus, you’ll still be able to use a carry-on. This 16-pack has everything from long and short pump bottles to spritzers and cream jars.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Plastic-Airline-Approved-Accessories-Bottles/dp/B01MTYCE5N”]Travel accessory bottles set, $7.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. The Laundromat That Fits in Your Hotel Room

If you are packing minimally, chances are you’ll have to do laundry during the trip. Instead of scouring the internet looking for a nearby laundromat—or paying high hotel laundry fees—turn your hotel sink into an impromptu washing machine.

These Tide packets have just enough liquid detergent to wash a few items in the sink, plus Febreze Odor Control if what you’re washing is gym wear.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tide-Sport-Travel-Sink-Packets/dp/B01IFPSWXS/”]Travel sink laundry packets, $6.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

9. The One-Size-Fits-All Cord That Condenses Your Carry-Ons

One carry-on and one personal item is feasible in theory, except when you have a briefcase, backpack, or other small item in addition to your handbag. Instead of trying to reorganize everything at the gate, bungee two together to function as a single carry-on.

The Travelon Bag Bungee allows you to carry two items as one. It attaches to the handle of wheeled luggage and secures over a second bag, coat, laptop case, or anything else you might otherwise need a third hand for.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Travelon-Bag-Bungee-Black-Size/dp/B001TR0UZI”]Bag bungee, $11.45 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. The Travel Iron That Will Save You in a Pinch

Schedules are often so tightly packed these days that sending clothes out to be pressed is just impossible. So many of us hit the ground running when we travel. Still, we want to look as professional as possible during the trip.

A small travel iron and steamer can save precious minutes—and first impressions. The Reliable Ovo 150GT Portable Steam Iron releases steam at the touch of a button. It also has a non-stick soleplate and measures approximately 4 inches by 5 inches.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Reliable-150GT-Iron/dp/B07DP33YHJ”]Portable steam iron, $60.15 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. The Socks That Keep You Warm Anywhere

Getting cold feet is more than just a metaphor—especially when traveling. Airplanes are kept around 71 degrees, and when your neighbor’s vent is blowing directly on you, things can get a little chilly.

Enter Heat Holders, thermal socks that hold heat in better than normal socks. Thermal yarn provides insulation that is still breathable. The socks come in three styles, with multiple color options and a no-slip grip on the bottom.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Heat-Holders-Ladies-Slipper-Lavendar/dp/B0093FXXLQ/”]Ultimate thermal socks, $18.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. The Multitasking Miracle Oil

Beat dry skin and frizzy hair with a five-in-one knockout punch. Milk and Honey’s Everything Oil can be used to soothe out frizz, add moisture to cuticles, remove makeup, and function as a nighttime oil and a deep conditioner at once.

This is also a clean beauty product, meaning it’s made from organic, plant-based ingredients. Small enough to slip into a clutch, this container is perfect for travel, especially on long flights that can wreak havoc on your skin.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/milk-honey-Everything-Oil-fluid/dp/B01A1BY4RM/”]Skin and hair oil, $16 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. The Facial Mist That Keeps Bloat in Check

“Hey, I feel really attractive after this long flight,” said no one ever. Flying does a lot of damage to our bodies, thanks to the recycled air in pressurized cabins. Give your body a boost with these Evian Brumisateur Natural Mineral Water Facial Sprays.

These travel-sized sprays boost hydration, set your makeup, and reduce bloating. Step off the plane straight into a mini spa and you’re good to go.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/evian-Natural-Mineral-Facial-Travel/dp/B001PMIN10/”]Natural mineral water spray, $15 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. The Eye Mask That Helps You Sleep Just About Anywhere

No one gets great sleep on an airplane, but adding a sleep mask to your carry-on is one way to get at least a little bit of rest during the flight.

A plush, soft combination of silk and cotton, the Dream Zone Earth Therapeutics Sleep Mask is a travel favorite thanks to its ability to block out light and stimulate sleep. Its elastic band contours to all head shapes, and the front design features a lovely starry scene.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Zone-Earth-Therapeutics-Sleep/dp/B000JE2C9Y/”]Silk and cotton sleep mask, $14.02 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. The Neck Pillow for 360-Degree Support

Sleeping upright on a plane, train, or bus is never optimal. But it can at least be tolerable, especially with the help of the right neck pillow.

The Cabeau Evolution Pillow is made with memory foam that works to support your neck and your head, offering 360-degree support—so no more jolting upright if you tilt to one side when you sleep. This pillow has a washable cover, as well as a small storage bag for easy packing.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Cabeau-Evolution-Memory-Travel-Pillow/dp/B004ZIKWJW”]Memory foam travel pillow, $39.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. The Headphones That Never Tangle

How is it that headphones get tangled up in the weirdest knots just from sitting in your purse? Every. Single. Time. Going wireless is the best way to prevent cord spaghetti.

Great for airplane seats or on the go, the ESTAVEL Sure Wireless Bluetooth Sport Earbuds offer more than 30 feet of operating range in a compact package. They also come with their own charging storage case. The lifetime is up to 10 hours of music, and the headset is waterproof.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-Headphones-ESTAVEL-Wireless-Headsets/dp/B07G5B5KY3/”]Bluetooth headphones with charging case, $46.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. The Best Socks for Circulation

Blood circulation takes a hit when we fly, and risks for issues like blood clots or deep vein thrombosis increase over time. One of the best travel expert insider tips is to invest in a pair of compression socks.

These help increase circulation and decrease the risk of swelling, bloating, or something more serious. Physix Gear Compression Socks are great for boosting stamina and circulation, and can also be used by athletes and pregnant women. The socks come in knee-high and low-cut styles.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Compression-Graduated-Athletic-Maternity-Pregnancy/dp/B07DQR3QJ4/”]Compression socks for flight travel, $27.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

18. The Water Bottle That Nourishes on the Go

Daily vitamins or medications can be difficult to transport, especially if you’re gearing up for a long days of travel. Forget the dozens of ziplock baggies and invest in a one-stop shop for your pills.

This water bottle has a built-in storage case for your daily prescriptions. The Asobu Pill Organizer comes with a 20-ounce water bottle and five slots for daily medication organization.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Asobu-Combine-Daily-Organizer-Bottle/dp/B07DX22M8H/”]Water bottle with built-in pill box, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. The Travel Kit That Will Save You in a Pinch

Lost luggage is every traveler’s nightmare. When this unfortunate event occurs, it’s best to be prepared. The Pinch Provisions Travel Kit will soon be the item you never leave home without.

It’s business class in a bag, with 18 travel essentials tucked inside a periwinkle blue kit. Contents include lip balm, a nail clipper, a mending kit, hand lotion, wrinkle remover, earbuds, deodorant towelettes, a tablet stand, and more.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B8KML3D/”]Provisions travel kit, $29.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. The Facial Cleanser for Fresh Arrivals

There’s nothing like freshening up after a long flight or a longer day of sightseeing. Give yourself a mini facial on the go with these cucumber and sage cleaning wipes from Burt’s Bees.

Each towelette removes pore-clogging dirt, oil, and makeup. They are perfect for air travel, the office, or as a way to unwind after a long day.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GJG9JAQ”]Sensitive facial cleansing towelettes, $4.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. The Portable Footrest That Will Prevent Swelling

Swollen legs after a long flight? Nothing is more uncomfortable, not to mention the increased risk of deep vein thrombosis. Bring first-class comfort to any economy-class seat with this adjustable foot rest hammock.

The hammock helps to reduce swelling in the legs and feet after air travel. The rest pillow can be hung underneath a tray table, and is adjustable to suit your height. Other perks? Manufacturers say this footrest can reduce lower back pain and stiffness.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BHMC32D/”]Flight foot hammock, $16.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. The Eye Cream That Turns Back Time

Traveling can wreak havoc on your routine, including your sleep schedule and skincare regimen. But rest assured there is an antidote. Having a solid eye cream can ensure that you return from your trip looking relaxed and rejuvenated.

Lily Ana Naturals Eye Cream with rosehip and hibiscus works to brighten, firm, hydrate, and lift the delicate skin around the eyes. It contains no parabens, artificial colors, or artificial fragrances, and it’s certified as vegan friendly.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Cream-Moisturizer-Natural-Anti-Aging/dp/B00LV6VDG2″]Natural anti-aging skin care, $17.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. The Stylish Accessory That Keeps Your Belongings Safe

Traveling smart sometimes means taking that extra step to protect your belongings. Rather than settling for an awkward, uncomfortable fanny pack or passport belt, you can keep your belonging close at all times without sacrificing style.

The Speakeasy Travel Scarf is an infinity scarf, handmade, with a secret pocket for storing everything from your passport and iPhone to sunglasses, lip balm, cash, and credit cards. The self-locking zipper keeps everything safe and tucked away while helping to maintain a boho chic, subtle style.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FF5S7SS”]Infinity security scarf, $39.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

24. The Router That Gives You Wifi Wherever You Are

Stuck in an airport without wifi? How about a coffee shop? Never play the wifi password guessing game again.

This small USB travel router instantly acts as a wifi hotspot and accesses the internet through encrypted connections. It is also compatible with more than 20 VPN service providers for added protection.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XTXKRMY/”]Travel microuter, $29.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. The Go Cup of Coffee That Is a Trip in Itself

Good morning, Vietnam, indeed! This portable cup of Vietnamese coffee will put some much-needed pep in your step during a long travel day. Believe it or not, this is an instant coffee that actually tastes good!

Take a quick trip to Vietnam with these single-use pour-over pouches from Copper Cow Coffee. The all-in-one kit contains everything you need to brew a delicious cup of Vietnamese coffee, no matter where you find yourself. It takes a traditional recipe and adds a California twist, blending Robusta roast coffee from Vietnam with an Arabica roast that is popular stateside. The coffee is sourced from socially responsible and sustainable farms in Dalat, which sits in the highlands of central Vietnam.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Copper-Cow-Coffee-Vietnamese-Single-Use/dp/B0711THNRF/”]Single-use, pour-over Vietnamese coffee, $14 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. The Smartphone Lens That Will Turn Any Traveler Into a Social Media Influencer

You don’t need to invest in an expensive DSLR or upgrade to the iPhone 10 to take Instagram-ready photos. Instead, invest in an affordable clip-on camera lens that will strengthen your photo game.

This Xenvo wide-angle lens promises to capture nearly 50 percent more picture in every shot. Not only that, but a powerful macro lens magnifies subjects for incredibly detailed photos. The lens can also be adjusted for low, medium, and bright lighting, and it includes an LED fill light, which illuminates subjects with a warm, natural filter. Simply clip it over your phone’s camera lens and start snapping Insta-worthy pics.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Xenvo-iPhone-Camera-Lens-Clip/dp/B01A6D2JVI/”]Clip-on cell phone camera lens, $34.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

27. The Tripod You Need (Which Is Not a Selfie Stick)

Traveling solo and need the perfect shot? Forego the selfie stick and embrace the flexible tripod. The JOBY GripTight GorillaPod stand has a reliable connection point to securely hold smartphones with or without a case.

Adjust the moveable legs for the right angle to perch, point, and shoot—or close the legs to use them like a selfie stick. This lightweight tripod is perfect for packing, and it’s easy to carry in a purse, as well.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/JOBY-GripTight-GorillaPod-Stand-Smartphones/dp/B009GHYMB6/”]Flexible smartphone tripod, $26.50 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. The Coat to Save for a Rainy Day

Always expect the unexpected, and when it comes to travel that always means weather issues. The Hount Lightweight Hooded Raincoat is both waterproof and packable, and perfect for the active traveler.

The stylish coat has two front pockets and is made from quick-drying material. It comes with a carrying pouch so it is perfectly packable, and is great for all outdoor trips, from climbing and fishing, to camping and hiking.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hount-Lightweight-Raincoat-Waterproof-Packable/dp/B076T91X75/”]Waterproof, packable rain jacket, $29.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. The Blanket That Turns a Walk in the Park Into a Picnic

An impromptu beach trip or walk in the park can automatically turn any spot into a picnic. This pocket blanket is compact, measuring in at just 3 inches long and 2 inches wide.

Unwrap it to reveal a sizable blanket that is water repellent and puncture resistant. It has a key loop for easy transport, as well. All that’s left is to pack the snacks and you’re good to go.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Matador-Pocket-Blanket-Ultralight-Hiking/dp/B00PV2XC2K”]Pocket picnic blanket, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. The Speakers That Bring the Party With You

Music is meant to be shared, especially when traveling. It’s the perfect icebreaker and can turn any outdoor gathering into a social scene.

This Bluetooth speaker is shockproof, rustproof, and weatherproof. It’s ideal for outside, or even the shower. A rechargeable battery supports up to six hours of music. This speaker supports any Bluetooth-enabled device, as well, and it’s small enough to hook to a backpack, making it entirely travel friendly.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/VicTsing-Wireless-Waterproof-Hands-Free-Speakerphone-Blue/dp/B00NHDPLM4″]Wireless, water-resistant speakers, $19 from Amazon[/link-button]

31. The Waterproof Smartphone Case for Underwater Pictures

This waterproof phone case is the perfect accessory for capturing photos in and around water. Whether you want to take underwater pictures at the beach, document a fun day at the water park, or even snap shots out in the rain, this protective dry bag will keep water completely away from your smartphone.

Clear windows on the front and back sides make it easy to take photos and videos, and the screen is sensitive to touch so that you can check your apps. A snap and lock keeps out water, snow, dust, sand, and dirt.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Universal-Waterproof-JOTO-CellPhone-Motorola/dp/B00LBK7OSY/”]Universal waterproof case, $6.84 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. The Notebook for the Classic Traveler

Having a smartphone when you travel certainly does make things easier. But journaling has definitely become a lost art. There is something undeniably satisfying about putting pen to paper to describe a journey.

Reconnect with the old school style of travel with the Moleskine Voyageur Traveller’s Notebook. This hardcover journal comes with three bookmarks and includes three types of pages: ruled, dotted, and blank. The book also includes a little pocket for storage of printed emails, maps, and itineraries.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Moleskine-Voyageur-Travellers-Notebook-Nutmeg/dp/8867326155″]Hardcover Traveller’s Notebook, $18.83 from Amazon[/link-button]

33. The Tote That Will Keep Beach Sand at the Beach

Everyone loves a beach vacation, but who like bringing the beach home with them? Sand is pretty to look at, but not so great to find in your clothes, shoes, or bed.

Try this CGEAR Sand-Free Tote Bag, a water-resistant, double-layered weave bag that ensures a sand-free experience. The bag is easily cleaned with water, and it has plenty of room for beach towels, clothes, and water toys.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/CGear-Sand-Free-Tote-Bag-7-5-Inch/dp/B007O8322O/”]Sand, dirt and dust-free beach tote, $29.87 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. The Travel Guide That Will Take You out of Your Comfort Zone

Guidebooks are fun to collect, but after a while the price tags can add up. These card-based guides provide a unique spin on getting to know a destination.

This creative travel guide has 75 cards designed to inspire exploration. Prompts include, “Ask the next person you meet where his/her favorite street is. Go there.” It is a great icebreaker for meeting new people and discovering places like a local.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Anywhere-Travel-Guide-Discovering-Unexpected/dp/145211904X/”]Anywhere travel guide cards, $7.89 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. The Portable Humidifier That Hydrates You Anywhere

Between airports, taxis, and hotels, travel exposes us to a lot of bacteria. Eventually, that takes a toll on our immune systems. Having a humidifier is one way to relieve cold and flu symptoms and add moisture to dry hotel air.

This Satechi USB humidifier secures onto most water bottles and is powered by USB. On a hot day, fill the bottle with cool water to use as a mister.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Satechi-Portable-Humidifier-v-2-5-Regular/dp/B00J3AX6R2″]Portable humidifier, $27.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

36. The HIIT Circuit You Can Take Anywhere

Keeping fit on the road can be a challenge, especially if your hotel has a limited gym, or no gym at all. These exercise cards provide intense bodyweight workouts that offer the benefits of a personal trainer right there in your hotel room.

Train your core, legs, glutes, arms, and more with these calisthenic training routines. The cards contain 50 effective exercises, including cardio and stretching—no equipment necessary. The card pack is small enough to fit into a carry-on or purse, as well.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Exercise-Cards-BODYWEIGHT-Personal-Calisthenics/dp/B01DJBCN3I/”]Bodyweight exercise cards, $19.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. A Eucalyptus Spray to Make Any Shower a Spa Experience

Treat yourself to a spa experience while on vacation, without the hefty price tag. This small, packable shower spray is made with 100 percent natural eucalyptus oil. A few sprays turns any shower or steam room into a fragrant oasis of relaxation.

Practice deep breathing to clear the mind, refocus, and fight back against winter colds or morning congestion. Travertine Spa sprays have three scents: eucalyptus, eucalyptus and citrus, and eucalyptus and lavender.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Travertine-Steam-Shower-Spray-Eucalyptus/dp/B01M3XQ71P/”]Eucalyptus shower spray, $26 from Amazon[/link-button]

38. The Portable Wand That Sanitizes Surfaces

Let’s face it: Germs and bacteria are everywhere, and if you’re traveling to tourist destinations, you’re going to encounter a lot more of them. The CleanWave Portable Sanitizing Travel Wand has been proven to eliminate up to 99 percent of germs found on hard surfaces, like airplane trays, hotel surfaces, and more.

Lightweight enough to fit in a purse, this chemical-free sanitizer uses UV-C technology to eliminate germs and odor-causing bacteria.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Verilux-CleanWave-Portable-Sanitizing-Travel/dp/B00144I3ZU/”]Portable sanitizing wand, $44.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

39. The Charger to Give Your Device All-Day Energy

Running out of juice for your smartphone while on the road is frustrating, especially when there are so many more great photos to be snapped and shared on social media. The Flux Portable Charger is a super-slim external battery back, compete with built-in cords for a variety of devices, like iPhone 7, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6, and Galaxy.

This portable charger is compatible with most devices, from phones and tablets to cameras and Bluetooth headphones. It contains three to four full charges before needing recharging itself.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Flux-Portable-Charger-External-Aluminum/dp/B01MYXAOYE/”]Flux portable charger, $52 from Amazon[/link-button]

40. The Adapter to Hook You up Around the World

Keeping track of which chargers to pack for international travel can be overwhelming, or even downright frustrating when you pack the wrong one. This universal power adapter has four international plug adapters that cover more than 150 countries’ wall sockets.

The all-in-one adapter ensures access to electricity just about wherever in the world your travels take you. Note that it is not suited for electrical outlets in South Africa, India, Switzerland, or Italy. It also cannot be used with high-power appliances, like flat irons, hair dryers, and coffee makers.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Adaptor-Wall-Power-Plug/dp/B01DJ140LQ”]Universal travel adapter, $10.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

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