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Keep your family organized with this charming chalkboard sign. The roughly 25 inches high by 23 inches wide sign includes seven compartments—one for each day of the week—and space to jot down meal plans, appointments and more. Pick one up for your kitchen or mudroom and pay just $19.88 during Decor Days. That’s an 80% savings!

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Square Arm Velvet Rectangle Sofa

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As we learned when testing the best sectional sofas, velvet is a very popular upholstery choice. It’s surprisingly durable and oh-so-stylish. This velvet sofa is an ideal addition to an apartment, media room or basement. The mid-century design sings in every detail, from the sleek lines to the brass legs. Not to mention, the olive color is absolutely to die for. Bring a sofa home for a whopping 40% off. You’ll save $200.

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Knit Throw Pillow

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Throw pillows are one of those home decor items that often come with sticker shock. A 20 x 20-inch pillow to display on a couch or chair costs how much? Luckily, this knit pillow that resembles a cozy, chunky sweater is 38% off right now. For just $24.99, you can outfit your whole living area with uber-soft acrylic pillows. The best part is that the case is removable from the insert for easy cleaning.

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Staub Cast-Iron Dutch Oven

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Cookware that lasts forever? Yes, please! It doesn’t get more durable than a Staub cast-iron Dutch oven. Made in France, this 4-quart vessel cooks meat, veggies, bread, stews and more to perfection. It’s oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit with the lid, and up to 900 degrees without. I’ve been covering cookware on our sister site, Taste of Home, for years—and I’ve rarely seen a discount as deep as the 57% savings during Decor Days. Order one in a “citron” hue for just $149.99 for a sunny addition to your kitchen.

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18-Piece Cotton Bath Towel Set

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If you’re hosting guests anytime soon, you’ll want to stock up on towels. This massive 18-piece set is on sale for $90.99, and it covers all the bases. Score six each of bath towels, hand towels and washcloths in a plush, cotton fabric. Enjoy a 39% savings.

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3-Piece Duvet Cover Set

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Switching from bulky, hard-to-wash comforters to removable duvets was the best choice I ever made for my bed. This three-piece duvet set includes a cover and two shams. To clean, there is no more lugging to a laundromat. Simply remove the cover from the insert (sold separately) and wash as you would a sheet set. It’s easy—peasy—and a dream for anyone who deals with spring allergies or summer night sweats and needs to wash their bedding more regularly. Order one for $22.99, which is a 45% discount!

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Wall-Mounted Wine Rack

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Part art display and part storage solution, this wall-mounted wine rack keeps up to four bottles at the ready. The distressed wood finish and industrial metal rings make this rack a stylish addition to farmhouse kitchens. Plus, it’s easy to mount thanks to the included triangle hooks. Order one (or a few!) to keep your favorite bottles safe. The rack is 81% off, meaning you’ll pay just $14.88.

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Performance Pillowcases

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Decor Days is a great excuse to stock up on essentials, like this two-pack of pillowcases on sale for $12.99. If the 44% savings isn’t enough, know that the double-brushed microfiber fabric is incredibly soft and built to last. Sweet dreams await!

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Cane Chest of Drawers

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Cane rattan accents are proving to be timeless. And this stunning chest of drawers is an exquisite addition to a bedroom or walk-in closet. Three large drawers provide plenty of space for storing T-shirts and socks, while simple (yet stylish!) hardware offers easy access. Priced at $377.40 (which is a savings of 40%), this is a Decor Days deal you won’t want to miss.

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Herringbone Throw Blanket

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While it’s likely time to pack away the weighted and heated blankets, you’ll still want a soft throw to cozy up with on chilly spring nights. This herringbone blanket is a perfect choice, thanks to its lightweight and ultra-soft acrylic fabric. Other details, like fringe ends and four calming colorways, make this a stylish choice for any room. Pick one up for $21.99, or 45% off.

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Bamboo Tray Table

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Mother’s Day is just around the corner. And if you’re planning to serve mom breakfast in bed, you’ll need this bamboo tray table for a mess-free dining experience. The waterproof and scratch-resistant surface can hold a bounty of goodies, while a lipped edge ensures nothing goes overboard. Plus, the legs fold for easy storage. Enjoy for 20% off, or just $19.99.

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Gold Metal Bar Cart

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A 40% discount? We’ll drink to that!  I own a very similar gold bar cart, and it’s the perfect way to make a statement. This wheeled beauty with mirrored glass shelves can hold bottles, glassware, bar accessories—you name it. On sale for $149.40, it’s a worthy splurge that provides plenty of practical storage.

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Twin XL Sheet Set

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Yes, it’s only May. But if you have a kiddo heading off to college in the fall, it’s time to start stocking up on dorm essentials. This 6-piece twin XL sheet set includes flat and fitted sheets as well as four pillowcases for just $20.99. Available in multiple colors, the deep-pocket sheets will fit any mattress and the microfiber fabric is easy to wash. You can’t beat the 43% savings, either!

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PAMELA BONDURANT FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

The best welding helmet offers good features and a reasonable price tag, among other things. The Miller welding helmet checks all of those boxes. It arrives fully assembled and ready for use. It even includes a tote bag for storage and lots of interior (ADF) and exterior replacement lenses.

At just over $100, the Miller welding helmet is an economical choice. When compared to pricier helmets, our tester Pamela Bondurant found few noticeable differences. “The band material is not as beefy and the knobs are not as strong,” she explains. “Also, the lens replacement part was difficult to pull on and off.” She also found the buttons to be on the smaller side. “The buttons are small and maybe not great for large fingers and definitely not usable with gloves on,” she says.

However, there’s plenty to like about the Miller welding helmet. “The display was very easy to read and adjust and the automatic setting for grinding, cutting and welding were nice,” she raves. “It was easy to see while welding and had a good field of view. It also transitioned quickly and the vision was clear during welding.” Bondurant also liked the helmet’s memory feature, which allows you to store up to two settings.

All things considered, we think this is the best choice for metalworking hobbyists, as it provides the best balance between features and affordability.

Auto-darkening: Yes | Weld mode: Yes | Cut mode: Yes  | Grind mode: Yes

PAMELA BONDURANT FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Budget

Hobart Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

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$118.19 at Amazon

Bondurant calls the Hobart welding helmet the best entry-level helmet. It boasts all of the features you need to get the job done without spending a small fortune.

This helmet features a variety of settings and controls that are easy to adjust. “The delay, sensitivity and shade controls are dials, which is nice if you don’t like trying to press small buttons. It might be easier to move them with gloves on,” says Bondurant. “The weld and grind setting is an up/down toggle switch.”

While Bondurant found the screen difficult to read because of its extra-small font, she appreciated the helmet’s strength indicators. “All of the dials are low on the left and high on the right so once you know your settings, you can eyeball it,” she explains. “Also, a small light flashes when you have the helmet on grind mode. This serves as error reduction as well as a safety feature.”

Auto-darkening: Yes | Weld mode: Yes | Cut mode: No  | Grind mode: Yes

PAMELA BONDURANT FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Splurge

Lincoln Electric Viking 2450 ADV Series Black Helmet

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$426.66 at Amazon

A comfortable fit, sturdy construction and easy-to-reach controls are just a few features that make the Lincoln Viking helmet one of the best welding helmets on the market. “The headband is the beefiest of all the helmets and probably the most comfortable with the most padding,” raves Bondurant.

In addition to being comfortable, Bondurant also found the helmet to be one of the best looking. “The plastic is shiny and the black with red accents make it pop,” she says.

What really makes the Lincoln Viking helmet stand out, however, are the unusual settings. Bondurant points out that the grind button is on the outside of the helmet with an electrical connection to the ADF. “This seems to be an obvious afterthought but it works,” says Bondurant. She also found the shade setting unusual.

Auto-darkening: Yes | Weld mode: Uses shades | Cut mode: No  | Grind mode: Yes

How We Found the Best Welding Helmets

In order to find the best welding helmets, we began by researching the best-selling models and brands. We considered a wide range of factors, including settings, auto darkening and comfort. We also consulted with industry experts to better understand the key considerations for hobbyists and professionals alike. After narrowing down our list, we sent five welding helmets to our dedicated product tester, Pamela Bondurant. During testing, Bondurant paid careful attention to the comfort of each welding helmet as well as its overall performance, safety features and ease of use.

Other Welding Helmets We Tested

• Jackson HSL2 Welding Helmet: The Jackson welding helmet is the most basic helmet we tested. It doesn’t have any settings and is not auto-darkening. Bondurant described this helmet as old-school thanks to its flip-up lens and the need to tilt the entire helmet down when it’s time to start welding. “Flipping down the shield can be tricky. Timing and starting with the shield down can be tricky as well,” says Bondurant. “Of course, people did this before auto-darkening helmets, so it can be done.”
• 3M Speedglas Welding Helmet: While Bondurant initially liked the on/off button on this helmet, she ultimately found that it wasn’t helpful in determining whether or not the power was actually on. “The only way to confirm your settings is to press the buttons and see where they light up,” she says. And while the controls were easy to use, Bondurant did not feel that the quality matched the price tag.

What to Look for When Buying a Welding Helmet

According to Torrey Alexis, welding program director at Fortis College in Smyrna, Georgia, there are several things to consider when buying a welding helmet. Most importantly, you need a helmet that fits properly. Alexis recommends choosing a helmet that provides comfort and visibility under the shield. “Consider the size and weight of the shield on your head,” he says.

In addition to a comfortable fit, Matt Carfo, owner of Collector Car Services in Danbury, Connecticut, recommends choosing a helmet with auto-darkening capabilities. “The lens of a welding helmet has to be very dark to protect your eyes. It’s pretty much black under normal lights,” he explains. “Auto-darkening allows you to see as normal with your helmet on until you start welding. Then it automatically darkens. This makes setup so much easier and improves your weld quality.”

Carfo also recommends blue lenses over green. “For a long time, green lenses were the industry standard,” he says. “The newer blue lenses provide a much better view. I can easily see what I’m doing while still protecting my eyes.”

FAQ

How often do you need to replace a welding helmet?

With proper use and maintenance, the best welding helmets can last a long time. “If the user takes good care of the shield, no replacement would be needed,” says Alexis. “I have had one of my shields for over twenty years.”

How do I choose a good welding helmet?

“The main feature I look for is auto-darkening,” says Carfo. Alexis emphasizes the importance of choosing a helmet that feels good on your head. In addition to a comfortable fit, you should have good visibility under the shield.

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, we have personally tested dozens of the best tools to help you through all of your projects. From budget-friendly picks to splurge-worthy tools, we’ve covered it all. And not just because testing products is an awesome gig (it is, by the way), but because our goal is to help you make the most informed shopping decisions based on real-life testing. We will never recommend a product that does not meet or exceed our expectations.

The post We Found the Best Welding Helmets After Weeks of Testing appeared first on Family Handyman.

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Serve up your spring and summer best in this darling hand-decorated bowl set. In hues of pink, sage, grey and the season’s oh-so-trendy butter yellow, these serving pieces will look great on your dining table. They’re made in Portugal and are conveniently dishwasher- and microwave-safe. Pick up a four-pack for just $33 during the Spring Black Friday event. You’ll save 49%!

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Rolling Kitchen Cart with Butcher Block Top

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Make a statement in your kitchen with this daring midnight blue workspace. The rolling kitchen cart is kitted out with a butcher block top, cabinets, drawers, open-shelf storage and even a towel bar. Whether you need some extra space to meal prep, want to create a formal coffee bar or are simply looking for a practical way to add some color, this cart is a great option. Bring it home for $349, which is over 40% off.

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Traditional 8x10 Area Rug

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A rug is the easiest way to warm up your space. For starters, the plush pile feels good on chilly wood or tile floors. And the color or print helps anchor furniture, decor and art—giving your room a cohesive look. We’re smitten with this 8×10 rug in a traditional pattern and with hues of blue, tan, brick red and beige. It’s machine-woven in Turkey, plus is naturally resistant to stains and fading. Large area rugs can be pretty pricey, but this pick is on sale for just $130—a nearly 40% discount.

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Oversized Arched Vintage-Style Gold Mirror

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Hunting for the perfect vintage mirror at thrift stores or estate sales can be time-consuming. Instead, try this luxe floor mirror. It delivers a timeless aesthetic at a fair price point—and without the chips, cracks and foggy glass that can come with actual antiques. The classic arched design is accentuated with decorative embellishments at the top and base. Plus, the mirror measures 32 inches wide by 71 inches high for maximum impact. Snag one on sale for 40% off. You’ll pay just under $300.

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Cotton and Linen Duvet Cover Set

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Spring bedding refresh? You bet! This 3-piece linen and cotton duvet set in “oatmeal” is the perfect neutral hue for your bedroom. The natural fiber blend is cooling and breathable while still offering soft, cozy comfort. Pick up a full/queen set for 50% off during the Spring Black Friday sale. You’ll only pay $55 out of pocket for the duvet cover and two shams. We recommend the Buffy Cloud comforter as an insert.

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Natural Woven Hyacinth Counter Stool

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Woven styles are timeless. And these water hyacinth counter-height stools add a homey touch to your kitchen island or breakfast nook. The barrel-back seat is comfortable enough for you to sit and stay awhile. Plus, each seat supports up to 300 pounds. Add a set to your space and save 30%. Each stool is on sale for just under $105.

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Sealy Posturepedic Plus Extra Firm Mattress

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Our tester loved her Sealy Posturepedic mattress for its superior support and premium quality. You can pick up a similar model, the 12-inch Sealy Posturepedic Plus, at the Spring Black Friday savings event. The queen-size bed uses a mix of densely packed coils and pressure-reliving memory foam to create a haven for anyone who likes extra firm support. There’s also cooling gel-infused memory foam to help hot sleepers. Priced at $799, you’ll save a whopping 44%.

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Hall Tree with Storage

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Spring brings with it a lot of mess, from muddy paws to grass stains. Keep everything under control with this lovely hall tree. Perfect for a mudroom or hallway, it has ample storage thanks to cabinets, hooks and lower drawers. The off-white hue is a lovely neutral, and cut-out design details add character. On sale for $699, you’ll save 30% on this darling organization center.

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Pantry Organizer Cabinet Buffet

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Speaking of organization, we bet your kitchen could use some help, too. This cabinet buffet organizer can wrangle extra appliances, pantry items, entertaining essentials—you name it. There are multiple storage options, including shelves, drawers and mesh-covered cabinets. The bar top is suitable for keeping everyday items accessible, like your coffee maker or a fruit bowl. Banish clutter once and for all for just $251. You’ll save 36%!

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Wooden Cane King Bed

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Sweet dreams await in this chic cane bed frame. The natural patina finish of this best bed frame warms up any bedroom and fits a number of decor styles, from modern to coastal. The set comes with a headboard, footboard, two side rails and three slats, and it’s compatible with a low-profile box spring. Order a king-sized frame for 30% off or $664.

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Holiday decorations, yard tools, toys, pet supplies—the garage can quickly turn into a dumping ground for all the stuff you don’t know how to store. Give everything a proper home once and for all with this 4-tier shelving unit. Husky already makes one of our favorite garage storage systems, and this no-frills rack is convenient for organizing items big and small. Each adjustable shelf holds up to 2500 pounds, and the unit is backed by a lifetime warranty.

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8-Piece Painting Kit

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Spring may just be our favorite season to paint. Moderate temperatures let you open the windows for airflow, and lower humidity levels allow for proper adhesion. Get ready for all your paint projects with this 8-piece set. It includes rollers, liners, trays and brushes for jobs big or small.

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RYOBI String Trimmer and Blower Set

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Didn’t quite finish fall yard cleanup? You’re not alone. Luckily, this RYOBI string trimmer and blower set makes quick work of rounding up wet leaves and cutting back spent perennials. Even better? Both cordless tools run on an 18-volt ONE+ battery that’s easy to charge and swap—meaning there’s no need to wrangle extension cords to far-flung corners of your property. We tried a RYOBI trimmer and were impressed with its power.

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BBQ Daddy Grill Brush

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If your grill has been on the patio all winter, we highly recommend deep-cleaning it before summer. Our Product Testing Team spent hours scrubbing and scouring gunked-up grates to find the best grill brush, and the BBQ Daddy earned our “best mesh” accolade. The heat-resistant head does a great job eliminating burnt-on residue, and it even includes a built-in bottle opener!

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Hampton Bay Edison String Lights

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Don’t just work in your yard—enjoy it, too! These classic string lights will help set the mood on your patio or around a fire pit once the sun sets. Twenty-four LED lights span a 48-foot cord and give off a lovely warm white tone. Even better? Their shatter-resistant and weatherproof design means they’ll last for seasons to come.

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Expandable Pocket Hose

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Our editors all agree: An expandable garden hose makes watering a breeze. The lightweight, kink-free design is much easier to wrangle and store than traditional rubber models. We like this 50-foot Pocket Hose featuring three layers of durable high-strength latex, three versatile spray modes and a fast-acting 3/4-inch flow diameter.

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Milwaukee Battery Chainsaw

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April showers bring May flowers—but a good spring thunderstorm can down trees and branches. Make cleanup easy with this cordless Milwaukee chainsaw. It’s compatible with a M18 battery pack (sold separately) and delivers up to 120 cuts per charge. The 16-inch bar and chain is suitable for cutting moderately large wood pieces. Milwaukee also makes one of our favorite mini chainsaws.

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Wooden Raised Garden Bed

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Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding newbie, gardeners of all skill levels will get use out of these wooden raised garden beds. The 33-inch height makes planting easy—no digging on your hands and knees required—and the modest 8.6-inch depth works for most veggie, herb and flower varieties. We also love the built-in drainage holes and included caster wheels for portability.

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HOOVER Professional Series Carpet Cleaner

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Spring cleaning is in full swing, and we’re eager to kiss mystery carpet stains goodbye. This Hoover upright carpet cleaner will revamp even the dingiest piles, thanks to FlexForce power brushes designed to lift and remove pet hair and debris. Plus, the machine is easy to use. Simply add solution, push forward to clean and pull back to dry.

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Traeger Pro Series 22 Pellet Grill

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After testing over a dozen pellet grills, our Product Testing Team found Traeger makes the best of the best. This Pro Series 22 model has an 18-pound hopper for all-day smoking and a wired thermometer for the perfect cook every time. Plus, 575 square inches of cooking space provide plenty of room to cook for a crowd. We’re won over with the grill’s sleek bronze finish, too.

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RYOBI 2000 PSI Electric Pressure Washer

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Chances are winter muck has coated itself on your deck, patio furniture or sidewalk. Clean it off—in the most satisfying way—with this RYOBI electric pressure washer. It has a mid-range PSI for handling moderate jobs and includes wheels for easy transport. Our editors can confirm that once you try power washing, you’ll never want to stop.

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Waykar 80-pint Dehumidifier

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Rising temperatures bring rising humidity. Keep your basement or other damp space at a comfortable level with this 80-pint dehumidifier. It extracts moisture in spaces up to 5,000 square feet and offers energy efficency.

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High quality, non-toxic materials, cooling properties and edge support make the Avocado Green mattress the cream of the crop. Every Avocado mattress is lab-tested for harmful levels of toxic substances so you can rest comfortably knowing that it’s completely free from formaldehyde, PFAS (known as forever chemicals), chemical fire retardants and off-gassing materials. And you will rest comfortably thanks to this mattress’s high quality construction.

Depending on the size you choose, each Avocado Green mattress has between 833 and 1,379 steel coils individually encased in fabric pockets. These coils are arranged in seven ergonomic zones to support your hips, back and shoulders. Moreover, a reinforced steel perimeter ensures that this mattress retains its structure without sinking or compressing.

According to our tester Nancy Snyder, sleeping on this mattress was like sleeping on a 5-star hotel bed. “It wasn’t just ‘comfortable for a box mattress,’ says Snyder in her full Avocado Green mattress review. “This might actually be one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever laid on. Our only regret? Getting this for the guest bedroom, as it was more comfortable than our main bedroom mattress!”

The only thing you may want to consider is the fact that this mattress does not reduce motion transfer as Snyder hoped it would. Though the brand claims that the coils reduce motion transfer, Snyder was able to feel her dog jumping up and moving around on the bed beside her. Snyder also points out that many other reviewers claimed they were able to feel every movement from their partner. “But while this is important for some, it may not be a deal breaker for others,” she adds.

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best budget non-toxic mattress

DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress

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If you think a non-toxic mattress that is cooling, comfortable and affordable sounds too good to be true, we’re delighted to tell you that you’re wrong. And whether you’re a hot sleeper, side sleeper or suffer from chronic back pain, you’ll sleep like a baby on this budget-friendly DreamCloud Premier Hybrid mattress.

This non-toxic mattress is is CertiPUR-US certified, which means it’s made without harmful ingredients. That means no formaldehyde, carcinogens, mutagens, chemical flame retardants, metals or other toxins.

The DreamCloud mattress is made up of multiple layers of clean, supportive foam and individually wrapped innerspring coils. The foam and coil system coil system work together to reduce heat retention, disperse body heat and promote better airflow, reducing the risk of overheating.

Additionally, the cashmere blend cover is moisture-wicking and breathable, providing you with a cooler, more comfortable sleep sleep. This was a huge plus for our tester, Jill Schildhouse, whose hypothyroidism causes her to run hot. “Each night when I got into bed, I noticed how much cooler the sheets felt against my skin and absolutely loved the sensation,” she says in her full DreamCloud review. “And even though I still ended up feeling warm some nights, I no longer woke up overheated and drenched in sweat.”

In addition to keeping her cool at night, Schildhouse also appreciated how comfortable and supportive the DreamCloud was. Though, admittedly, she was skeptical at first. “The firmness is listed as a 6.5 on a scale from one to 10, placing this mattress in the ‘luxury firm’ category. For the first few days, we were acutely aware of how much firmer the DreamCloud felt than our previous mattress. But by week two, we were fully on board with how supportive it was,” she explains.

The only thing Schildhouse struggled with was finding sheets that were deep/wide enough for the mattress’s 16-inch-deep profile. But don’t worry, because we’ve got you covered there, too. Here are the best organic cotton sheets to put on your new non-toxic mattress.

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best latex non-toxic mattress

Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress

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A combination of innersprings and GOLS-certified, natural latex make this Saatva mattress a true hybrid model that you’ll never want to leave. According to our tester, Lara Eucalano, this mattress didn’t need to be broken in at all. It was comfortable from day one. “The real test for this mattress was when I unexpectedly tested positive for COVID. It hit me harder than I expected, and I wound up spending almost a week in bed. Even with a fever and body aches, I was able to sleep for 12 hours a night,” writes Lara in her full Saatva latex hybrid mattress review. “I’ve never been more thankful to have a comfortable mattress to fall into. Based on that week alone, I’m a Saatva fan for life.”

Saatva says this model is a six out of 10 on the firmness scale. Lara agrees with that score and explains that the mattress is on the firmer side without being stiff. “You sink into the plush top layer, but not so far that it’s impossible to extract yourself from bed in the morning,” she writes.

In addition to being super comfy, this Saatva mattress is also as clean as they come. Like all of Saatva’s mattresses, this model is constructed entirely of eco-friendly and non-toxic materials that are free of toxic chemicals, emissions and pollutants. That includes the cooling, hypoallergenic, organic cotton cover. And better yet, this mattress is handmade to order right here in the U.S.A.

But before this mattress gets to your door via Saatva’s free white-glove delivery, it’s treated with a non-toxic botanical antimicrobial treatment which inhibits the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew. This treatment, combined with the mattress’s quality construction, ensures that this non-toxic mattress will stand the test of time.

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best customizable non-toxic mattress

Naturepedic EOS Classic Organic Mattress

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You can spend hours researching mattresses before biting the bullet and submitting your order. But what happens when the mattress of your dreams turns out to be the mattress of your nightmares? Well, you’re either out beaucoup bucks or you have to go through the hassle of returning a mattress. Not so with this Naturepedic mattress.

This non-toxic mattress is completely customizable. Not only can you and your partner select your ideal firmness, but you can swap out the inside layers at any time to ensure the perfect feel. If you find that you chose the wrong firmness level or, after years of use, it doesn’t quite feel as supportive as it used to, you can swap out a piece of the mattress instead of swapping out the whole thing. This gave our tester, Caitlyn Fitzpatrick, total peace of mind when she replaced her 10-year-old mattress with a Naturepedic.

“What makes this Naturepedic mattress so special is that you’re not married to whatever firmness level you choose, which tends to be a major concern when selecting the best mattress,” explains Caitlyn in her Naturepedic mattress review.

Because of its customizable design, this mattress doesn’t come in one piece. Caitlyn’s mattress arrived in four separate boxes. In other words, some assembly is required. And while the assembly wasn’t terribly difficult, per se, Caitlyn strongly recommends watching the brand’s instructional video first. “Before you even get started, I can’t stress enough how helpful this video from Naturepedic was. It goes through each step and gives helpful tips so you know exactly what to do,” she says.

Once she had everything assembled, it was time to hunker down and test it out. “It only took me a few nights to decide that I love this Naturepedic mattress,” she raves. “It turns out that cushion-firm is the perfect firmness for me. In fact, I regularly get knots in my left shoulder, which results in my left arm going numb and leaving me in a lot of pain. Since sleeping on the Naturepedic mattress, I’ve noticed those knots are less regular and less severe. I take it that my body likes it, and it’s more supported than it was before. And as an every-position sleeper, I’m happy whether I’m on my side, back or stomach.”

Her husband, on the other hand, wasn’t as pleased. While Caitlin loved the cushion-firm, he decided that it was too firm for his liking. They both appreciate the fact that they can simply swap out his side of the bed. “Imagine if we had to send back the entire mattress,” she says. “Not only would I be disappointed because I love my side of the bed, but it would be a bit of a headache.”

Speaking of headaches, you won’t be getting any as a result of chemicals and toxins lurking in your mattress. This Naturepedic mattress is certified non-toxic and organic by Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). This model is also available with or without latex, making it ideal for people who suffer from latex allergies. A wool-free vegan option is also available.

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best cooling non-toxic mattress

Bear Pro Hybrid Mattress

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Attention hot sleepers, this one is for you. The Bear Pro Hybrid mattress is one of the best non-toxic mattresses thanks to its GreenGuard Gold-certification. In other words, this mattress is scientifically proven to meet some of the world’s most rigorous third-party standards for chemical exposures and pollutants.

You can sleep soundly knowing that there are no traces of VOCs, formaldehyde, phthalates or other nasty toxins. Plus, it uses CertiPUR-US certified foams and fiberglass-free fire protection. Not only that, but it is one of the more affordable mattresses on our list. And best of all? It will keep you nice and cool thanks to a premium hyper-soft cooling gel under the cover. And, if you happen to be a human furnace, you can upgrade to a cooling pillow top.

Before upgrading to the Bear mattress, our tester, Emily Way,  frequently sweated through her pajamas, sheets and blankets. She was thrilled to find that the cooling gel layer and air-infused coils really do move heat out and away from her body at night. “Even on sweltering nights, I have yet to wake up drenched in sweat—a big win for me, especially for a budget mattress,” she writes in her Bear Pro Hybrid mattress review.

In addition to keeping her cool and dry at night, this Bear mattress alleviated Way’s back and hip pain. “I’m a side and stomach sleeper, while my husband is a back and side sleeper,” shares Way. “With our old mattress, both of us frequently woke up with back and hip pain. However, the Bear mattress surprised us. It’s supportive, thanks to the coils and firmness, yet also offers enough ‘give’ to cradle the body.”

Pair this non-toxic mattress with one of these best mattress toppers for an even more elevated sleep experience.

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best non-toxic mattress without memory foam

Birch Natural Mattress

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Helix Sleep makes some of our all-time favorite mattresses. So when they rolled out the Birch Natural mattress line, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on it. This non-toxic mattress is Greenguard Gold, GOTS, Eco-Institute and Fair Trade Certified. It is constructed in Phoenix, Arizona with plush layers of wool, cotton and latex for comfort and supportive coils underneath, making it a true hybrid model. We sent it to our tester, Richard Glenn, who slept on it for a month and found it well-built and supportive.

“The medium firmness is a great balance between support and comfort,” Richard says in his Birch mattress review. “It’s not a cure-all, but it’s good enough that I don’t even think about waking up achy. When I do sleep on my back, I don’t have any lower back pain because of the support from the mattress.” This can be attributed to the mattress’s individually wrapped coils, which provide reinforced support under your hips and cradle your body while helping to align your spine.

When you order a Birch Natural mattress, you can opt for in-home delivery, setup and haul away of your old mattress. Upon delivery, Richard was impressed to find that there was no off-gassing or chemical odors. However, it did take a full 48 hours to expand. “I slept on it before it was fully inflated, and it seemed squishy,” Richard says. “24 hours later, it came to its full firmness and felt much more supportive.” This is something to keep in mind if you’re having an old mattress hauled away.

Richard was also impressed by this mattress’s cooling features. Unlike his old Tempur-Pedic mattress which trapped heat, the Birch mattress remained consistently cool. “If you’ve been sleeping on memory foam and wake up sweaty, this mattress (made without memory foam) is worth trying,” he says.

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best non-toxic mattress on Amazon

Happsy Organic Mattress

$1399 at Amazon

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Shopping on Amazon can be a gamble, but you can rest assured that the Happsy organic mattress is one of the best Amazon purchases you’ll make this year. Every Happsy mattress is handmade in the United States. They are certified nontoxic and organic by Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and verified by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), meaning every mattress is free of harmful allergenic materials and odors. They’re also free from chemicals such as glue, adhesives, and flame retardants.

Our tester, Cathy Harms, was instantly smitten with her Happsy mattress, hailing its cloud-like comfort in her Happsy mattress review. She was especially pleased by how quickly it expanded and the absence of any off-gassing smell. “As someone with a strong sensitivity to chemical odors and who prioritizes a healthy sleep environment, I was pleased to find that the Happsy mattress lived up to its promise of being free from harmful chemicals and odors,” she writes.

And as someone who tosses and turns all night long, she found that she was comfortable in most positions. However, she felt that the medium-firm mattress was too firm for side sleeping. “I needed more softness for my hips and shoulders, so I ordered the optional mattress topper. It gave the mattress two additional inches of soft plushness, with a supportive foundation underneath,” she explains. “My sleep quality greatly improved during the testing period, and there was virtually no adjustment period once I added the mattress topper.” And that’s not the only thing that improved.

Harms also noticed a significant improvement in her allergy symptoms after sleeping on the Happsy mattress. “The organic wool and latex naturally repel dust mites, mold and other allergens, making it a great option for people like me with dust mite allergies or asthma,” she raves.

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best non-toxic mattress for neck and shoulder pain

Silk & Snow Organic Mattress

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If you suffer from neck and shoulder pain, the Silk & Snow organic mattress can help. It’s constructed using a mix of soft and firm pocket spring coils that offer zoned support. A combination of soft coils on the outer thirds and firmer coils on the middle thirds provide the support needed to banish aches and pains for good.

According to our tester, Sabrina Tillman, this Silk & Snow mattress did indeed help her wake up pain-free. “I noticed a positive difference in my neck and shoulder pain after the first night of sleep,” she writes in her Silk & Snow mattress review. “After 30 days, I’m amazingly pain-free in my neck and shoulders when I wake up, despite spending hours a day hunched over a laptop. I also feel generally less creaky and achy when I get out of bed.”

And, of course, Tillman appreciated the fact that this mattress is made using chemical- and synthetic-free materials. It has received certifications from the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and Eco-Institut. In other words, you won’t be sharing a bed with heavy metals, VOCs, pesticides or other harmful chemicals.

Tillman’s only complaint was that this mattress didn’t fit her queen-sized bed frame corner to corner. “You get a peek-a-boo view of the wooden slats of the bed frame if you look closely, even though the mattress is queen-sized,” she explains. But in spite of this aesthetic oddity, as she calls it, Tillman appreciated how this mattress took no time to inflate and had no odors or off-gassing. She also liked the reinforced handles on both sides, which makes it easy peasy to rotate, flip and lift the mattress as needed.

What To Look For When Buying a Non-Toxic Mattress

When shopping for the best non-toxic mattress, Carlson advises looking for a mattress made of natural and organic materials like organic cotton, natural latex, and wool, which are free from harmful chemicals. He adds that certifications are also great indicators of a non-toxic mattress.

“Look for GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) for organic fabrics, GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) for organic latex, and CertiPUR-US for low-emission foams,” he explains. “GREENGUARD Gold certification ensures low chemical emissions, improving indoor air quality. Lastly, avoid mattresses with synthetic flame retardants, VOCs, or chemical dyes, and check for clear labeling of materials to confirm the mattress meets safety and sustainability standards.”

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, our team of editors and testers are always excited to try new products. We especially love testing products that improve the overall quality of our sleep, since a good night’s rest is fundamental to both your mental and physical health. In addition to doing our own research on the best non-toxic mattress brands on the market, we spoke to Marten Carlson, a Mattress Expert and a Certified Sleep Science Coach at Mattress Clarity, who shared his insights on how a non-toxic mattress is especially beneficial to your overall health and well-being.

After thorough research and careful consideration of the options we found, we sent a non-toxic mattress to each of our testers to assess how it enhanced the quality of their sleep. First and foremost, our testers focused on each mattress’s overall comfort and performance. They also considered how easy each mattress was to unpack, whether or not they noticed any odors and the overall value. Based on their findings, we are confident that these are the best non-toxic mattresses on the market.

How We Found the Best Non-Toxic Mattresses

We know that a new mattress is a big investment. Not just financially, but for your overall health as well. That’s why we considered materials, comfort level, price and real-life user experience to determine the best non-toxic mattress. We did our best to choose a non-toxic mattress for every type of sleeper, lifestyle and budget.

Our testers personally slept on every non-toxic mattress on this list to ensure they live up to their online descriptions and reviews. They took notes on the good and the bad so you can shop armed with the knowledge you need to buy the best mattress for a clean, restful night’s sleep.

FAQ

What type of mattress is the least toxic?

According to Carlson, natural latex mattresses are one of the least toxic options. “They are made from the sap of rubber trees and avoid synthetic chemicals commonly found in foam or hybrid mattresses,” he explains. Additionally, he points out that mattresses certified by organizations like GOTS, GOLS, or OEKO-TEX also tend to have minimal chemical exposure and meet high safety standards.

How do I know if my mattress is non-toxic?

To determine whether your mattress is non-toxic, look for Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), EWG Verified or Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certifications. If you’re unsure, contact the manufacturer or check their website to see which certifications your mattress has.

“You can also check the materials list for organic or natural components like latex, cotton, or wool,” advises Carlson. “Try to avoid mattresses with strong chemical odors or vague descriptions of their materials.”

Are non-toxic mattresses more expensive than regular mattresses?

Yes, you are likely to pay more for a non-toxic mattress. Carlson explains this is because they use higher-quality materials like organic cotton, natural latex, or wool, which cost more to produce. They are also manufactured to meet stricter health and safety standards, which adds to the cost. However, he argues that the investment reflects better materials and construction, which can also increase durability.

The post 8 Best Non-Toxic Mattresses, According to Our Experts appeared first on Family Handyman.

Plants

Houseplants and garden plant starts from big-box stores might not be suited to your local climate and are often treated with chemical fertilizers, growth retardants and pesticides that can be harmful to bees, birds and other wildlife.

“For healthier plants, it’s better to purchase from local nurseries or the farmers market,” says Randy Cummings, a growing specialist at Bootstrap Farmer. “They offer varieties specifically adapted to your area, provide expert advice and keep those dollars spent locally.”

Especially stay clear of milkweed, as it may not be the correct species for your area and has likely been treated with pesticides that contaminate the ecosystem you’re trying to support. Instead, buy from local plant nurseries or order seeds online from nonprofit organizations like Save Our Monarchs and Garden for Wildlife.

Garden Seeds

The shelf-life of big-box-store garden seeds can be questionable, as they may have been sitting in packages for quite a while, plus fulfillment centers aren’t temperature or humidity-controlled, says Cummings. Also, their seed selection can be narrow and not tailored to your grow zone or resistant to local pests and diseases.

“You’ll do best when you can shop from a reputable seed company and select for disease resistance, heat or cold resistance, pest pressure and plant habits you’re most interested in,” he adds.

Mulch

National supplier mulch is often dyed or made from recycled materials, which can include splintery wood or even bits of metal, says Cummings. “This is especially common with colored mulches and lower-cost bagged options, which are often put on sale,” he says.

Instead, make your own or buy in bulk from regional suppliers, which typically use wood from locally sourced trees, ensuring a more natural product. “This not only saves money but also helps build a relationship with a reliable source that may also supply topsoil, gravel and compost,” he says.

Major Appliances

“Major appliances can be a gamble at big-box giants,” says Sofia Vyshnevska, a housing expert and co-founder at Jome. “You typically have a scant 48 hours to note any defects; an impossible time frame, especially if your poor new dishwasher decides to reveal its eccentricities on, say, day four.”

Also, the store might not have the expertise to help you determine what products are right for your home and needs, says Docia Boylen, owner at Handyman Connection of Golden. So, try a local appliance store instead.

Painting Tools

Paint rollers and brushes are not an absolute item for “what not to buy at home improvement stores items,” but if you have access to a painting-specific store like Sherwin-Williams, start there, says Carr Lanphier, CEO of Improovy painting services.

The products are often of higher quality, and “these types of stores tend to have employees with more specialized knowledge on what type of materials you will need for specific projects, which can make them a better resource for you,” he says.

Clearance Paint

Those clearance paint cans in the mis-tint section can be tempting at $10 or less, but they’re often a waste of money unless you’re painting something non-critical like a doghouse, says Steven Mena, CEO at AAA Fence and Deck Company. “The color is often inconsistent or unmatchable, and it may not be a quality paint brand,” he says. “Worse, cheap paint usually requires more coats.”

Instead, opt for mid- to high-grade paint from a specialty store like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore. While they cost more per gallon, they’ll give better coverage and longevity, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

Chances are, someone at those stores will also be better able to steer you toward the perfect paint for your project. “Not to mention with lower foot traffic, the staff is likely to have more time to assist you,” says Thomas.

Cheap Tools

“I learned this the hard way at a younger age when starting out as a journeyman plumber,” says Geno Caccia, CEO of Caccia Plumbing. “Budget tools might seem like a good deal, but I’ve had them break mid-project, causing me more frustration than savings.”

The same goes for wet/dry vacuums, which tend to burn out quickly and clog frequently, and universal electric testers (like those under $10), which can be dangerous if they give false readings, says Rinea Blanchard, founder and CEO of Superior Contract Cleaning.

Instead, if you can swing it, invest in quality brands from specialty tool suppliers. “It’s worth spending more upfront for tools that last, even if you don’t use them every day as most homeowners might not,” says Caccia.

Water Softener and Filter Systems

Without a proper analysis of your water, it’s really difficult to know what type of water filter and softener you need, says Boylen. “Systems can be complex to install, and a poor quality system can cause damage to your plumbing or appliances,” she says.

Instead, enlist the help of a service or retail store that specializes in water treatment, who will also be familiar with water issues in your areas. You can also find a local environmental or water testing company that offers products along with their testing.

Pesticides

A significant portion of home gardeners do not follow proper pesticide application instructions or use the wrong pesticide for the task they’re trying to accomplish. This misapplication can harm beneficial insects and wildlife, plus pose risks to human health.

Consider organic or non-toxic alternatives when possible, which are more readily available at local garden centers; but remember that even organic sprays can also be deadly to beneficial insects. Here are some ways to naturally cut down on pesticide use, and remember to use native plants whenever possible.

Quick-Fix Products

Anything that touts a quick DIY fix over spending the time to fix something the proper way should be suspect. For example “quick-fix” roof coating and sealants often trap in moisture and can void your existing roof warranty, says Blanchard.

Same for foundation repair kits. “Just, no,” she says. “They’re expensive snake oil that often makes the problem worse. Foundation repair is not a DIY job!!”

Inexpensive Plumbing Fixtures

When it comes to home fixtures it might be tempting to grab the cheapest faucet or shower head on the shelf, but these often use lower-quality materials like plastic instead of brass, says Caccia. “They tend to wear out quickly and lead to leaks that can become more costly than buying a high-quality fixture,” he says.

Instead, he recommends buying plumbing fixtures from specialized plumbing supply stores, which have more options to choose from, are built for durability and often come with better warranties.

Products That Mitigate Danger

It is best to buy any product that could potentially damage your home or threaten your safety from a specialty store, such as circuit breakers and other electrical components.

“These are crucial safety components, and purchasing them from a specialized electrical supply house ensures you’re getting high-quality, certified products,” says Caccia. “You also have expert professionals to answer your questions, and with no disrespect to home improvement employees, you are not always getting the true expert advice.”

The same goes for mold removal products, since big-box quick fixes can be ineffective for serious mold problems, says Pete Duncanson, vice president of training and development at ServiceMaster Restore. “They often provide a surface-level clean but fail to address the root cause, which can lead to recurring issues,” he says. For those, it’s probably best to call a professional restoration company.

Fire Safety Devices

Duncanson also recommends against buying fire extinguishers and cheap smoke alarms/carbon monoxide detectors from home improvement stores. Detectors may lack features like connectivity, longer battery life and multi-sensor capabilities vital for home safety; and fire extinguishers might be too general-purpose.

“For example, different types of extinguishers are designed for grease fires, electrical fires, or combustible materials, and the wrong one could make a fire worse,” he says.

Instead, buy both from specialized safety companies. These companies can guide you through purchases designed for your home’s layout, appliances and potential fire risks and train you to use them effectively.

Greenhouse Plastic

Although big box stores sell thick, clear plastic, it’s generally just construction plastic, which doesn’t contain UV inhibitors or stabilizers. “This means that it will deteriorate in three to five months and turn into confetti,” says Cummings. Also, many construction plastics are opaque and thus don’t offer the light transmission of a greenhouse-specific plastic.

Cabinets

Pre-assembled stock cabinets from big-box stores can seem like a quick fix, especially with their lower price tag, but they’re often made from particleboard that warps or chips easily, especially in humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms, says Mena.

They also lack a deeper sense of craft, says Vyshnevska. “Walk into a home improvement store, and you’ll spot rows of cabinets that look chic in the showroom but can feel oddly soulless once you get them home,” she says. “Mass-produced units often skimp on the finer details like those hidden corners and special finishes that transform a kitchen from purely functional to quietly fabulous.”

Lawn Mowers

Lawn mowers make the list for what not to buy in home improvement stores because they are often mass-market models with limited features and support, says Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal lawn care. For a better return on investment, visit a local specialty dealer.

“They offer higher-quality equipment, expert advice on the right mower for your lawn type, and better after-sales service, including maintenance and repairs,” he says. “Specialty dealers also tend to carry commercial-grade options that are built to last, saving homeowners money in the long run with fewer breakdowns and better performance.”

Off-Brand Impulse Items

Those end-cap and holiday displays offer tempting impulse buys, but before reaching for them, make sure it’s a name-brand product with good customer service or technical support, says Todd Tripp, a home improvement expert at JustAnswer.

“I find that there are a lot of foreign products that don’t even have a place to call or email or even a website to get assistance or help replacing simple parts; and seasonal items are notorious for having a part that will go out,” he says. “I’m not saying buy only American, but be selective in getting items from established companies that will stand behind their product.”

About the Experts

• Rinea Blanchard is founder and CEO of Superior Contract Cleaning, which she has run since 1997 in the Lafayette, Louisiana area.
• Geno Caccia is CEO of Caccia Plumbing in San Mateo, California, and has more than 30 years of experience in the plumbing and construction industry.
• Carr Lanphier is CEO of Improovy, a Chicago-based painting service helping homeowners connect with insured and licensed interior, exterior and commercial painters.
• Gene Caballero has more than 25 years of experience in the landscaping industry and is co-founder of GreenPal, which has been described as the Uber for lawn care.
• Docia Boylen is owner of Handyman Connection of Golden, Colorado, and was honored with several awards at the 2024 Handyman Connection Annual Conference.
• Pete Duncanson is vice president of training and development at ServiceMaster Restore, where he has worked since 1995.
• Randy Cummings has worked with Bootstrap Farmer since 2011, helping growers find success by consulting with them on inputs, tools, supplies and market trends.
• Todd Tripp is a general contractor and founder of Trip Mills Builders in upstate South Carolina, and a home improvement expert with JustAnswer.
• Steven Mena is CEO at AAA Fence and Deck Company in Raleigh, North Carolina and has been in the industry for 30 years.
• Julian Thomas is a DIY and home lifestyle expert and Command Brand partner.
• Sofia Vyshnevska is a housing expert and co-founder at Jome, a marketplace for new construction homes.

The post Things You Shouldn’t Buy at the Home Improvement Store appeared first on Family Handyman.

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The Bounty Hunter metal detector earned the top spot on our list for its intuitiveness, lightweight design and its ability to detect all of our test items. Our testers appreciated the fact that it’s one of the most affordable options on our list. Better yet, this model is used by the pros.

“I currently own 22 metal detectors ranging from budget-friendly to high-end models, including five Bounty Hunters. Two are IV Trackers,” says Joanna Jana Laznicka, metal detectorist and founder of Focus Speed. “The IV Tracker in particular, is an excellent analog detector. I know several fellow detectorists who, despite having the means to purchase more expensive models, choose to stick with the IV Tracker because of how well it does in relic detecting and old coin detecting.”

Though it doesn’t have all of the bells and whistles that pricier metal detectors have, it has three modes to help you sort trash from treasure. It also features automatic ground balance which neutralizes the detector’s response to mineral content in the ground. That said, it does not have any land type settings: a feature you’ll find on some of the other, higher-end models on our list.

During testing, our team found that this metal detector excelled when at detecting aluminum, picking it up from six inches away or less. It also detected a pair of 10-karat gold earrings, though only when they were within two to three inches from the coils. Moreover, it performed successfully in water during a real-world beach hunt. Unfortunately, our team only dug up a foil-covered bottle cap, a USB charger and a wire as opposed to some real buried treasure, but they were pleased to see that it worked well overall.

In spite of its ability to find all of our testing items and then some, our team noted a few flaws with this model. They especially disliked the screen, which they described as virtually useless and not at all intuitive. “Whenever we swing a metal item in front of the coil, the gauge that reads from 10 to one (left to right) bounces all the way to one, then immediately back to 10 again. We thought this might be the target ID scale, but it’s impossible to read due to how quickly it moves,” explains Product Tester Sydney Manning. Additionally, they didn’t like the fact that although there are slats in which to insert a Velcro strap, there is no arm strap included with this metal detector.

“It doesn’t come with a strap, which makes it hard to hold,” explains Product Tester Annamarie Higley. “By nature, metal detectors have to be held at sort of an awkward angle, so without a strap as a counter, holding becomes very tiring on the forearm very quickly.”

Overall, our testers agree that this metal detector is a great value for kids, beginners or anyone looking to have fun. “We liked this one better than expected, but overall, it was simple and stripped down—which is probably why we liked it,” says Higley. “That said, it’s kind of like a glorified version of the kids’ models. The analog interface doesn’t really tell you anything, but it’s easy to use if you’re just looking to have fun.”

Want to learn more? You can read our full review of the Bounty Hunter metal detector before making your final decision.

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Best Budget Metal Detector

Sunpow Metal Detector

$149.99 at Amazon

If you’re looking for the best metal detector and are on a budget, the Sunpow Metal Detector is our top pick. That’s because it’s easy to use, comfortable to hold and comes with a selection of handy accessories. It even comes with two 9V batteries.

“Some of the pricey models on this list really skimp on accessories. For not much more money than the kiddie models, this metal detector comes with headphones, a metal shovel and a sling-style carrying case,” says Higley.

Upon receiving this metal detector, our team found that it was rather easy to assemble. They especially liked that they were able to adjust the length of the shaft as well as the length of the armrest portion to ensure their comfort. Once our testers had adjusted it to their liking, it was time to see what this metal detector could do.

The Sunpow metal detector has a 10-inch, waterproof searchcoil and five search settings: All Metal, Disc (i.e., discrimination), Memory, Jewelry and Pinpoint. During testing, our team used the All Metal and Jewelry modes. Using these modes, our team was able to locate all of our test objects. They did find, however, that this metal detector wasn’t able to detect gold more than a couple inches away, unless it was higher quality, like 14-karat gold. In fact, with jewelry mode turned on, it was able to detect a 14-karat gold ring but not a pair of 10-karat gold earrings.

Admittedly, Annamarie had low hopes for this unit after it performed so-so in the air test, but this was actually her favorite unit to test on the beach. “It performed well in water,” she raves. “We even found a penny in the surf with it.” She also found that the screen had good visibility and was easy to use overall. “The screen is pretty intuitive and easy to use, even for us beginners,” says Higley. “There’s not a mind-boggling amount of symbols or buttons as there is on some competitors.”

The only thing our team didn’t love was how much they had to disassemble the metal detector in order to get it into the storage bag. “For the carrying case, you basically have to take the machine fully apart, so it isn’t as convenient as we’d hoped,” explains Higley. “Although, we like the sling style of the bag. This would be good for hikes.”

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Best Metal Detector for Beginners

Garrett Ace 300 Metal Detector

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If you’re just getting started, the Garrett Ace 300 is the best entry-level model. This multi-purpose metal detector is a mid-priced unit that’s loaded with plenty of useful features. Five search presets to help you find exactly what you’re looking for and adjustable frequencies which eliminate or minimize interference caused by electrical sources or from other metal detectors. Moreover, the 7-by-10-inch search coil is submersible so you can hunt for treasure on the beach, at the lake or in your local river.

It runs on four AA batteries, has an adjustable length of 42 to 51 inches and weighs less than three pounds. A pair of Garrett ClearSound Easy Stow Headphones with volume control, an ACE Environmental Cover-Up and a search coil cover are included with your purchase, making it even easier to get started.

It also features electronic pinpointing which our testers found particularly helpful since it precisely locates a detected target’s position. “We switched back and forth a lot from pinpoint mode to the regular settings and it was very helpful,” explains our tester, Sydney Manning. “With the pinpoint mode, it’s easy to narrow down where the target is.”

In addition to pinpoint mode, our testers also used the zero discrimination and jewelry modes. They were pleased to discover that the Garrett metal detector was able to detect the earrings as well as other non-ferrous items in jewelry mode. “With jewelry mode, the aluminum, pull tabs, 10-karat earrings and copper were all detected. The bottle caps were hit or miss, but more often than not, it didn’t detect them,” explains Product Tester Annamarie Higley. “Same thing with the screw and nail. It only picked them up occasionally.”

Overall, our team determined that the Garrett Ace 300 is hands down one of the best metal detectors. “We liked this one a lot. It was intuitive and the screen was fairly accurate and easy to follow,” raves Higley.

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Best Metal Detector for Gold

Minelab Equinox 900

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If you’re hoping to strike gold, then the Minelab Equinox 900 is your best bet. That’s because it features not one, but two, gold settings that allow it to detect gold from farther away than other models we tested.

“Not many metal detectors are fitted out with gold-specific settings, but this one is. In fact, it has two gold settings—one for difficult ground and one for normal ground. The fact that this could identify 10-karat gold from eight inches away and 14-karat gold from 10 inches away really wowed us,” raves Product Tester Annamarie Higley.

In addition to its gold settings, the Minelab Equinox boasts multiple terrain-based presets and customizable discrimination patterns. It also has an array of useful features, including a built-in flashlight, multi IQ frequency setting and vibration feedback for underwater use and hearing impaired users.

Our product testers were seriously impressed by this metal detector’s ability to detect most metals from roughly 10 inches away. It was able to detect gold, including our 10-karat gold earrings, from eight to 10 inches away. “Super impressive,” says Higley.

It’s worth pointing out that all of these features don’t come cheap. In fact, the Minelab Equinox is the most expensive metal detector on our list. But given its features, overall ease of use and impressive performance, our product testers agree that it’s a worthy splurge. You can read more about how we tested this best metal detector in our full Minelab Equinox review.

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Best Metal Detector for the Beach

Nokta Legend Metal Detector

$595 at Amazon

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If you’re hoping to find buried treasure on the beach, the Nokta Legend should be on your shopping list. This metal detector is fully submersible up to five meters (16.4 feet) and features vibration mode, which alerts you when it detects an item underwater. It even has a beach setting, which helps optimize your search on sand as well as in the water. It also alerts you if it detects black sand, which contains natural iron and makes detecting difficult if not altogether impossible.

When our testers took this metal detector to the beach, they were impressed by how well it worked in the water and were especially excited to find a stainless steel measuring cup buried in the sand. They also found a bottle cap and pull tab and noted that the FerroCheck bar, which distinguishes ferrous from non-ferrous metals, was accurate each time.

The only thing that bothered our testers about this metal detector was the screen. “The screen itself is fine, but the buttons are raised and all black, so they’re hard to read with sunglasses or in the shade,” explains product tester Annamarie Higley.

When they weren’t hunting for buried treasure on the beach, our team was performing a series of other tests to see what this model could do. They had a selection of items including a pair of 10-karat gold earrings, a copper pipe, aluminum foil, pull tabs, bottle caps, a screw and a nail. The Nokta Legend was able to detect all of our items from a foot away or less. It detected gold from about eight inches away, which was farther away than most of its competitors.

All in all, our testers didn’t hesitate to dub the Nokta Legend as one of the best metal detectors. “Although the black buttons are a little hard to see with sunglasses on or in the shade, the screen—with all its super-helpful information—fortunately, has high visibility,” says Higley. “The user-friendly FerroCheck bar, which identifies whether a target is ferrous, never once failed us.” You can learn more about why this metal detector is so great in our full Nokta metal detector review.

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Best Metal Detector for Children

National Geographic Starter Metal Detector

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$49.99 at Amazon

Looking for the best metal detector for your budding detectorist? The National Geographic starter kit is it. Designed for kids ages three through 12, this metal detector is lightweight and comfortable to carry, simple to use and can even detect gold.

“Although there are plenty of metal detectors for kids on the market, this model’s ability to detect gold, though admittedly not very well, was its edge over the competition. Plus, the interactive user manual is enrichment that any curious kiddo would enjoy,” says product tester Annamarie Higley.

During testing, our team found that this metal detector picked up all of our test items. It excelled at detecting aluminum, and it was able to detect copper from five inches away, even though the online listing says these coils can only detect within four inches.

To keep the fun going, this metal detector includes a super engaging, fun manual. According to Higley, it has easy-to-follow instructions with helpful illustrations, as well as detecting techniques, a troubleshooting guide, the metal-detecting code of ethics, a history lesson about the hobby, an explanation of how metal detectors work, and a short journal for logging found items.

Best of all, this metal detector is only $50. Just keep in mind that it requires one 9V Alkaline battery, which is not included with the unit.

What to Look for When Buying a Metal Detector

According to Laznicka, you should purchase a metal detector from established and reputable brands such as Minelab, Nokta, Deus, Garrett, Bounty Hunter and Fisher. “It’s advisable to avoid knockoffs, even if they boast positive reviews,” she cautions. “These reviews can often be misleading or fabricated. Opting for trusted brands ensures you receive a quality product backed by reliable customer support.”

How Metal Detectors Work

Laznicka explains that a metal detector operates by emitting electromagnetic fields through a search coil, which interacts with the ground to locate metallic objects. When the coil encounters metal, it induces eddy currents in the object, creating a secondary magnetic field that the detector’s receiver coil picks up. The signal is then analyzed by the control box, which interprets the object’s properties, such as type and depth. Once metal has been detected, the metal detector will make a sound or, if it has a screen, notify the user on the screen. Sounds and symbols vary by model, so be sure to read the user guide carefully.

According to Laznicka, modern metal detectors often use Very Low Frequency (VLF) or Pulse Induction (PI) technology, along with other advanced features like ground balancing. “Equipped with these capabilities, metal detectors can locate a variety of objects in challenging environments, from mineralized soils to shallow waters,” she says.

How to Use a Metal Detector

When it comes to using your metal detector, you’ll want to start by carefully reading your user manual. This will help you understand your detector and its settings. Then, decide on a location. Laznicka advises verifying that metal detecting is permitted in your area. “Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations,” she says.

When you’re ready to start hunting, hold the detector’s search coil level and close to the ground, sweeping it in a side-to-side motion while maintaining consistent overlap between sweeps to avoid missing spots. Keep the coil parallel to the surface, even when transitioning across uneven terrain. Laznicka recommends using headphones if available, as they can help isolate faint signals in noisy environments.

“Pay attention to the detector’s signals and use discrimination settings to identify valuable targets while filtering out unwanted materials like nails or bottle caps,” she explains. When you come across an object, she recommends digging carefully to minimize damage to the surrounding area and rechecking the hole and removed soil to confirm the object has been recovered.

Lastly, Laznicka stresses the importance of practice and patience. “Many people are drawn to metal detecting after watching captivating videos on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, where detectorists showcase their most exciting finds. However, those considering this hobby should be aware that these videos often highlight only the best moments from days, weeks, or even months of searching,” she says. “The reality of metal detecting involves digging up a lot of junk, like pull tabs and tin cans, before uncovering anything noteworthy. The true joy of the hobby lies not in striking it rich, but in connecting with nature, exploring new places and making new friends.”

Why You Should Trust Us

In order to help you make an informed buying decision, our product testing experts on the product testing team spent approximately 80 hours in our lab getting up close and personal with 11 metal detectors. We performed 13 tests on each metal detector and collected roughly 600 data points overall.

We also sought advice from Joanna Jana Laznicka, founder of FocusSpeed.com and experienced detectorist. Laznicka offered her expertise on everything from the best brands and models to how metal detectors actually work.

How We Found the Best Metal Detectors

Product testing manager Annamarie Higley led our product testing team as they set out to evaluate 11 metal detectors. The team spent around 80 hours performing 13 tests on each unit. They collected roughly 600 data points overall. With in-depth research and a rubric that tested assembly, specs and performance, we narrowed that list from 11 to six.

Our testers began by sourcing a variety of metal items to assess whether or not the metal detector was able to accurately locate them. Items included 10-karat gold earrings, a copper pipe, aluminum foil, pull tabs, bottle caps, a screw and a nail.

They began by performing an air test with each metal detector. This is a standard basic functionality test that many companies recommend prior to first use. To perform this test, our team placed each metal detector on non-metal surface outside and proceeded to wave a selection of metal items in front of the coils. They tracked the metal detector’s response to each item on various settings as applicable.

Next, they took each metal detector to a local beach to perform a real-world hunt. Their goal was to find three to five items during each hunt. Once an item was found, our team noted the type and depth of each item. They paid particular attention to how well each metal detector adjusted to various terrains, whether or not it was waterproof and how comfortable it was to use for long periods of time. After thorough testing and recognition of notable differences, we’re confident that these are the six best metal detectors on the market.

FAQ

Can metal detectors detect gold?

Yes. Metal detectors can detect gold since gold is a metal.

How much is a metal detector?

The best metal detectors can range from under $100 to well over $1,000. And according to Laznicka, if you buy a model from a reputable brand and dedicate time to learn the metal detector, an inexpensive model can be just as effective as a high-end model.

Where can I buy a metal detector?

Metal detectors are sold at a variety of retailers including Amazon, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, The Home Depot, Walmart and more.

The post We Found the 6 Best Metal Detectors After Testing Nearly a Dozen Models appeared first on Family Handyman.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

When it comes to the safest space heater, it doesn’t get much better than the Dreo Solaris 718. This tower heater comes in three colors and is loaded with safety features. A child lock, cool-touch housing, tip-over protection and overheat protection make it safe for use in a house with little ones. Plus it’s made of flame retardant materials. In addition to its many safety features, this space heater boasts a powerful fan and precise temperature control.

“The Dreo Solaris comes with not only five heat settings but also specific temperature control,” says associate product tester Dylan Fischer. “It’s very convenient for fine-tuning a specific heat level for your room.” And once it’s finished heating, you don’t have to worry about getting scalded if you accidentally bump into it. Dylan points out that while the heating grates themselves took a few minutes to completely cool off after operating in high-heat mode, most of the model was cool to the touch after heating.

While Dylan didn’t particularly care for the conical shape of this heater, he was impressed by its overall performance, noting that its fan was noticeably more powerful than its pricey competitors. “The fan is much more powerful, and I could actually feel the difference even in the far corners,” he explains. “During the high-mode test, there was a 10-degree difference by the end (in the center of the room).” And in spite of its power, this space heater is incredibly quiet. In fact, Dylan points out that it makes virtually no noise when on low.

Another callout feature is the unit’s convenient cord management system. “Always gotta call out nice cord management when we see it. Any unused cord can easily be wrapped around the bottom of the base,” raves Dylan.

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Best Budget Safe Space Heater

Dreo Space Heater Atom One

$49.99 at Amazon

The Dreo Atom One has over 15,750 five-star reviews thanks to its heat output, quietness and value, so we knew we had to test it for ourselves. Our team described this heater as well-made and easy to use with a sleek, modern profile that will blend seamlessly into any space. And after a bout of rigorous testing, our product testing team agrees that this budget-friendly space heater is a smart purchase.

While it doesn’t have a cord management system, it features five settings including a fan-only setting and adjustable oscillation. Better yet, it worked just as well as we hoped it would. During testing, product tester Sydney Manning found that this space heater increased the temperature a full 8 degrees Fahrenheit. “The room went from 72 to 80 degrees on low mode, then from 80 to 88 degrees on high mode,” notes Manning. “The room was hot throughout, with it being a little colder in the far corners.”

This space heater has several safety features including an overheat sensor, tip-over protection, flame retardant materials and a fused safety plug. During testing, Manning knocked over the unit in order to assess its tip-over protection feature. “I ‘knocked over’ the space heater by setting it on its side, and immediately it started beeping,” she explains. “After about two minutes, it completely shut off.” Manning was disappointed that it didn’t shut off right away, but still insists that this is a durable heater that will last for years to come. And at $50, you can’t go wrong!

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Best Infrared Safe Space Heater

Dr Infrared Portable Space Heater

129.9916% OFF$108.77 at Amazon

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Associate product tester Sheri Kaz was immediately taken with this Dr Infrared space heater thanks to its vintage-looking design. “It reminds me of an old stereo or radio,” she says. Sheri also liked the unit’s large, easy-to-read buttons and remote control. It’s a contender for the safest infrared heater, and is equipped with a blower and built-in thermostat. It has 5200 BTU which is good for larger spaces like a basement. Speaking of basements, Sheri points out that the thermostat on this space heater is supposed to keep a cold basement at an even temperature to avoid frozen pipes. While Sheri’s pipes weren’t in danger of freezing during testing, this space heater did warm things up quite a bit. According to Sheri, this machine raised the temperature 14°F in 90 minute on the highest setting.

“As a ‘side quest,’ I used this one in my 1300 sq. ft. basement that’s divided by a panel wall that doesn’t go all the way to the ceiling and has two open doorways. The ambient temp was 65,” explains Sheri. “I used the ‘ECO’ mode with a target temp of 72°F, and set the timer for one hour. The space came up to 68. The temp on the other side of the wall was 66. Pretty impressive for a huge open space in one hour.”

Even more impressive was the fact that this space heater was cool to the touch both during and after heating. Not that you have to touch it since the machine’s features take away all of the guesswork. According to Sheri, you can see the red heat coils when the machine is working. The coils go dark if the unit is paused, but the other lights stay on so you know it’s still plugged in and ready to kick in if needed.

“If you’re looking for a space heater that will keep the room at a constant temperature, the Dr Infrared Heater lets you set a target temperature, and the machine does the rest, monitoring the room every four minutes and kicking on if it needs to,” explains Sheri. The only thing you may want to consider is that this space heater will not kick in on its own if the room temp is 68 degrees Fahrenheit or above. Users must set the desired temperature, and the thermostat monitors and shuts on or off as needed to maintain the temp. Likewise, the maximum temperature you can set the thermostat to is 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

And although it’s on the pricier side, we’re sure this infrared space heater will keep you warm all season long. No buyer’s remorse here!

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Best Portable Safe Space Heater

Vornado MVH Whole Room Heater

69.9914% OFF$59.99 at Amazon

This Vornado space heater may be small, but it heats evenly and can easily be moved from room to room. It has tip-over protection, overheat shutoff, a cool-touch case, and is flame-retardant. According to product testing manager Annamarie Higley, this space heater is larger and heavier than other portable models she tested, but it’s still light enough to tote around from room to room. “Of the three I tested, this is seemed like the highest quality unit, which checks out due to its higher price point. It’s substantial in size and weight, and the controls are all worthy,” she raves.

During testing, Annamarie ran this space heater on low and high settings. She found that while it didn’t generate a ton of heat, it heated evenly. “Temps didn’t even reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit. That said, no one would want a room to be much hotter than 80 degrees Fahrenheit at the absolute max so I don’t think this is a huge issue,” she explains. “Plus, the corners and center of the room read the same temps at almost every checkpoint.”

Annamarie was also impressed by how quiet this space heater was as well as the fact that it never got too hot. “I was actually able to touch the grates, the emblem on the front, and the sides of the unit while it was still blowing hot air. Though the grates were a little warm, it was nothing dangerous or concerning,” she says.

In addition to touching the unit while it was running, Annamarie also turned it over to assess its tip-over protection. While the manual claims that if this unit tips more than 10%, it will shut off, she found it was more sensitive than that. “If it’s even almost imperceptibly tipped, you can hear the shutoff feature click,” she explains.

And finally, Annamarie couldn’t ignore the cord management on this space heater. “Although a space heater is an appliance that is often used continually for months, the cord management is still great for off-season storage and easy transport. The testing team is always going to thumbs-up this feature,” she raves.

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Safe Space Heater with the Best Features

Black + Decker Portable Space Heater

39.9925% OFF$29.80 at Amazon

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While all of the space heaters on our list are safe to use, the Black + Decker is specifically designed for use on countertops and tables. “This unit is explicitly stated as safe for countertop or tabletop use, which makes it a nice selection for a workspace,” points out Higley. However, it’s worth noting that according to the manual, this unit is not safe for use in bathrooms or laundry areas, and the cord shouldn’t be covered by rugs or cord hiders.

While it’s not the sleekest unit on the market, Higley insists it’s small enough where it won’t make much of a statement in any space. It’s also comparatively quieter than other models she tested, so it will really go unnoticed in any home or office. What won’t go unnoticed, however, is how evenly it heats a room and its safety features.

“The auto shutoff feature is super reliable,” raves Higley. “If its base tips even a few millimeters off the surface, the unit will stop operating. Once it’s upright and stable again, it’ll resume operation.” It also has overheat protection and stays cool to the touch during and after use. Higley was able to touch the exterior of the unit as well as the grates after the standard fan setting had been running for 30 to 60 seconds.

“Within seconds of switching this machine into fan mode after hours of heating, the grates were completely cool to the touch, as was the exterior plastic. Paired with the sensitive auto-shutoff feature, this unit feels super safe,” says Higley.

The only thing Higley didn’t like about this space heater was the handle. She describes it as shallow and embedded into the backside of the unit. “I wouldn’t rely on the handle,” she says. “It’s not very ergonomic or secure to hold.” That said, it is small and light enough to pick up and move around without the handle.

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Most Energy-Efficient Safe Space Heater

DeLonghi Mica Panel Heater

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If you plan on running your space heater for long periods of time, then you’ll want to be sure you get one that is energy-efficient. The DeLonghi Mica Panel space heater converts 100% of the electricity into heat when it’s switched on with no wasted electricity. And unlike other space heaters on our list, this one doesn’t have a fan. According to our testers, the lack of a fan led to a completely silent operation. Another plus? This heater won’t be blowing dust and dander around your home.

“The heat that radiates out of the mica panel is soft, gentle and cozy. Rather than hot air blowing on you, it warms surfaces for a deep, soothing warmth,” raves product tester Sheri Kaz. “I love that this machine doesn’t use a fan to dry out the space; rather, it’s unobtrusive and silent. The face stays dark while it is on, so there are no distracting hot red coils, plus it’s relatively cool to the touch.”

While this unit is a bit bulky to pick up, it has a lightweight design and wheels so you can easily move it from room to room. “The four wheels rotate 360 degrees for ease of movement. It can also roll over a thick shag rug,” she says. Sheri adds that the wheels are very stable. So stable, in fact, that she believes this heater would be almost impossible to tip over.

When it comes to the overall performance of this space heater, Sheri was impressed by how well and how quickly it was able to heat her room. On low, her room temperature rose 6 degrees in 90 minutes. On high, the temperature rose a whopping 12 degrees  in 90 minutes. “I was surprised by how quickly it heated up the bedroom. It can be mounted to a wheel base or hung on the wall making this a versatile, energy-efficient heater. I highly recommend.”

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Best Air Purifier Combo

Dyson Purifier Hot + Cool

749.9920% OFF$599.95 at Amazon

When heating a room, the Dyson automatically detects the temperature in the room and sets the heat to adjust to a couple degrees higher. At the highest setting (99 degrees Fahrenheit), Dylan notes that the heat really didn’t feel that hot. 

“It’s hotter up close but drops significantly as you take a step or two away from the heater. A bit disappointing in that sense,” he says. “But overall, this model performed much better than the original Dyson Hot + Cool (without the purifier). I found my entire room warming up more with this one.” He adds that the heater automatically goes into standby mode once it hits the target temperature and most of the machine stays cool to the touch. 

Overall, Dylan deems this a great machine for smaller spaces. “Similar to the other Dyson, this one unfortunately has a weak fan. However, if you’re planning on using it in a smaller setting for more direct heat, you will find a lot to like with this model,” he says.

What to Look for When Buying a Space Heater

Safety Features: Look for built-in safety features such as tip-over protection and over-heat shutoff. Timers and adjustable thermostats also make operating space heaters less of a concern or risk, according to Brad Roberson, President of Aire Serv, a Neighborly Company.

Long Power Cord: Most space heaters advise keeping a clear, three-foot radius around your space heater. Additionally, extension cords are not recommended and power cords should never be covered by rugs or cord hiders. Look for a space heater that has a cord long enough to reach your power outlet while maintaining three-feet of space on every side.

Style: If you’re going to have this space heater on display in your home, then choose a style you like. Though the aesthetics of each space heater don’t have affect the overall performance, you don’t want to spend money on something you can’t bear to look at.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our team of expert product testers has years of experience testing products. Many of them also happen to be based in the midwest where temperatures can range from frigid to freezing several months out of the year. Therefore, they understand the importance of having the safest space heater in your home. We also consulted with Brad Roberson, President of Aire Serv, a Neighborly Company that provides HVAC services to residential and commercial clients, and Andrew Hancock, President of Gilman Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. The offered their expertise and additional safety tips to ensure we bring you the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How We Found the Safest Space Heaters

As shopping experts, it is our duty to help you find a winning product. We started by researching the highest rated space heaters on the market. We paid special attention to each unit’s safety features, size and price point. Next, we sent 12 space heaters to our expert product testers who spent an estimated 100 collective hours on this test.

Our testers ran each space heater for four to six hours in rooms ranging from 169 to 196 square feet. They performed 12 tests on each unit and collected approximately 450 data points. Once their testing was complete, we combed through all of their findings and recommendations. Of the 12 space heaters they tested, they found the seven units on our list to be the safest space heaters. 

FAQ

Are any space heaters safe to leave on all night?

Both Roberson and Hancock agree that in spite of built-in safety features, you should never leave a space heater on all night unless you’re staying awake and can keep an eye on it. “Even such features as automatic shut-off, timer, or tip-over switch don’t make a space heater completely safe for overnight use,” explains Hancock. “Electrical malfunctions can happen or safety mechanisms can stop functioning. If you have to use a space heater all night for some reason, it’s better to use an oil-filled radiator.”

Are radiator space heaters safer?

According to Roberson, radiator space heaters do have a lower surface temperature, which can help reduce the risk of burns. He also adds that heat is distributed evenly without exposed heating elements, helping to reduce fire risks.

Hancock agrees that oil-filled radiator heaters are the safer choice for homes. In addition to not relying on exposed heating elements, he points out that radiator heaters are designed to hold heat longer. “You don’t have to keep them running nonstop, which not only reduces the risk of a fire but also helps avoid dry air,” he explains.

What is the difference between radiator heater and space heater?

Radiator heaters use oil or water to generate radiant heat, which provides steady, long-lasting warmth. They tend to be quieter and are efficient when it comes to heating a room. When shut off, a radiant heater will continue to heat the room for an additional one to two hours, making it the more efficient option.

Conventional space heaters, on the other hand, use blowers and heating coils for faster warmth. They heat smaller areas quickly but aren’t effective for heating larger areas and can cost more to operate. Space heaters stop heating the room as soon as they are shut off.

The post The 7 Safest Space Heaters: Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Family Handyman.

Our tester used the Avocado mattress topper on his 16-year-old mattress and was seriously impressed by the comfort and support it provided. Read on for everything you need to know about the Avocado mattress topper.

What is the Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper?

The Avocado mattress topper is a latex mattress topper available in a two-inch, medium-comfort option and 3-inch plush option. The medium topper is made of Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)-certified organic latex, and the plush topper is made with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified Pure Talalay latex. It has a Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified organic cotton cover with a hidden underside zipper for easy removal. The topper and cover are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and Made Safe certified. This Avocado mattress topper is also vegan-certified, as it’s made without wool. And if you happen to prefer wool, Avocado also makes a luxurious Alpaca wool mattress topper.

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Avocado Eco Organic Mattress Topper

The Avocado mattress topper is made with organic latex and cotton and is offered in medium and plush feels.

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Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper Features

Eco-Friendly

Depending on the model you choose, the Avocado mattress topper is made with either GOLS and FSC-certified organic Dunlop latex or FSC-certified Pure Talalay latex. Unlike polyurethane foam or memory foam toppers, which are made from fossil fuels, the latex is natural and renewable. This means it’s better for the planet and, most importantly, better for you.

Non-Toxic

The Avocado mattress topper has been granted multiple certifications. It’s Made Safe Certified, Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certified, Greenguard Gold Certified and Formaldehyde-Free Claim Verified by UL Environment. This means that every topper has undergone rigorous testing and is proven to be free from toxic ingredients and pollutants. You can sleep soundly knowing that your topper is free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, phthalates and other harmful chemicals.

Removable Cover

This topper has a GOTS-certified organic cotton cover with a hidden underside zipper. It can be removed, though the brand recommends spot cleaning only. If your cover starts looking shabby, you can purchase a replacement.

Flippable

Avocado recommends rotating and fluffing the mattress topper on a regular basis to help retain its loft. It can also be flipped.

How We Tested It

Our tester, Spencer Kildare, is a side sleeper who appreciates extra support and pressure relief. Especially since he’s been sleeping on the same spring mattress for 16 years. “My mattress is very old and worn in. It’s probably not the best to sleep on, but I have gotten accustomed to it,” he explains. “My sleep quality isn’t the best, and I sometimes feel like I’m 60% to 90% rested.”

In hopes of improving his sleep quality, Spencer ordered the 3-inch Talalay latex topper. It costs between $45 and $72 more depending on the size, but it is softer and more plush than the Dunlop latex used in the 2-inch topper. The plush Talalay topper is designed to contour and alleviate shoulder and hip pain, making it ideal for side and combination sleepers like Spencer.

The Avocado mattress topper arrived in a single box that Kildare could lift and move on his own. The topper itself was folded and wrapped in plastic. According to Kildare, it took a grand total of three minutes to get this mattress topper out of the box and centered on his bed. He did notice a factory smell, which he said was reminiscent of vanilla cake. He notes that the smell isn’t bad, but the topper needs a week or more to completely off-gas.

Spencer tested a handful of mattress toppers over the course of several weeks. The Avocado mattress topper was the final topper he tested and it stood out among the rest. “It was the most different, in terms of construction, that I slept on,” he says. “It really has a cakey sort of feel and it mushes when pressure is applied. It provided excellent support to my sides without applying excess pressure.”

After sleeping on this mattress topper for five nights and a handful of mid-day naps, Spencer found that he loved the overall quality and spongey nature of the foam filling. His sleep quality drastically improved and he found himself waking up fully rested more often than not.

Though Spencer gave this topper five stars for comfort and support, he wishes it had corner straps to keep it from moving around on his bed. “Straps! Somebody get this mattress topper some straps,” he quips. “This is a great topper, but those straps are important.” Rather than corner straps, this topper relies on well-fitted sheets to keep it in place. Treat yourself to a set of Boll & Branch sheets to keep this topper in place.

Overall, Kildare recommends the Avocado mattress topper to anyone who tends to wake up feeling stiff or sore. It starts at just $199, and given its comfort and quality, your only regret will be that you didn’t buy it sooner.

Pros

• Comfortable and supportive
• Made of more than 95% certified organic material
• Oeko-Tex standard 100 and Made Safe certified
• Available in medium and plush
• Available in six sizes and two heights
• Organic cotton cover can be removed and replaced
• Vegan certified

Cons

• Doesn’t have corner straps to hold it in place
• Seems to run slightly large for the stated mattress size

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, we especially value products that enhance the quality of our sleep. We’ve spent countless hours testing some of the best mattresses on the market from brands like Helix, Saatva and Purple. We’ve also tested the best mattress protectors, sheets and toppers. After thoroughly researching the best mattress toppers, we sent the Avocado mattress topper to Spencer Kildare for testing. He put this topper on his 16-year-old mattress and slept on it for five consecutive nights along with a handful of afternoon naps.

During that time, he focused on its overall comfort and performance. He also considered how easy it was to unpack and place on the bed, whether or not it had any odors and its overall value. “This is a mattress topper of excellent quality,” he concludes. “The soft cover of the topper adds to the spongey nature of the foam filling, and the covering is the most cloth-like of the bunch.”

FAQ

Which side up should I put my Avocado Mattress topper?

You can sleep on either side of the Avocado mattress topper.

How do I clean my Avocado Mattress topper?

The Avocado mattress topper and cover are spot clean only. The organic cotton cover is removable but must be spot cleaned and laid flat or hung to dry. If it becomes too soiled, you can purchase a replacement cover.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

The majority of reviewers give the Avocado mattress topper five stars. Most say it’s incredibly supportive yet soft and comfortable. Several reviewers were pleased to find that this topper instantly improved the feeling of their existing mattress, and others give high marks for the product’s overall quality and effectiveness. Moreover, many reviewers say they did not notice any off-gassing scents whatsoever.

Negative reviews tended to focus on personal preferences. Several users found the topper to be too firm while a few deemed it too soft.

Avocado Mattress Topper vs. Silk and Snow Organic Mattress Topper

If you’re looking for the best organic mattress topper, Avocado and Silk and Snow are your top two contenders. We know because we tested both of them. Both toppers are made with Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)-certified organic latex and have a GOTS certified organic cotton cover. Neither mattress topper has corner straps to keep it in place, and we found that both of them tend to slide around on the bed.

The Silk and Snow mattress topper starts at $175 and is machine washable. It comes in one thickness and two firmness levels. The Avocado mattress topper, on the other hand, starts at $199 and must be spot cleaned. You can also choose from a 2- or 3-inch thickness in addition to two firmness levels.

Final Verdict

The Avocado mattress topper is an excellent value. It’s well-constructed using non-toxic, eco-friendly materials and offers plenty of support while you sleep. It even improved the overall feel of a 16-year-old spring mattress. If this sounds like heaven, consider pairing this topper with the Avocado Green mattress.

Where to Buy the Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper

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Avocado Eco Organic Mattress Topper

Our tester noticed improved sleep quality and support while sleeping on the Avocado mattress topper despite using it on top of an old, broken-in mattress.

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You can shop the Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper ($199-$629) directly from Avocado, where all toppers ship free and come with a 1-year limited warranty against workmanship defects.

The post The Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper Is the Non-Toxic Stuff Dreams Are Made Of appeared first on Family Handyman.

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If you love the feel of your bed but wish it was a smidge cooler at night, The Company Store’s cooling gel memory foam mattress pad is the cooling mattress topper you’ve been dreaming of. That’s because it keeps you cool without completely changing the feel of your bed.

This topper is made of pressure-relieving memory foam that molds to the shape of your body for ultimate comfort and support. It features a breathable knit top that’s infused with cooling gel to regulate your body temperature all night long. It also has panels that cover the entire mattress and tuck under the corners easily so you can rest assured that it won’t move during the night.

“This mattress topper had a nice cooling effect but it is quite thin,” says our tester Wendy Rose Gould. “It feels more like light pad that you’re sleeping on versus a dense topper. That said, I personally love my mattress so I appreciated that this one didn’t add a lot of excess.”

Gould also appreciated how easy it was to unpack this cooling mattress topper and put it on her bed. The whole process took her about five minutes. She also noted that there were no odors or off-gassing. All she had to do was put it on her bed, add her linen sheets and she was ready to hop in. “You can tell that a lot of technology and thought went into the design,” raves Gould. “It’s comfortable and it effectively cools you at night while providing a thin layer over your mattress.”

WENDY ROSE GOULD FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Budget Cooling Mattress Topper

Amazon Basics Cooling Gel-Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper

$35.19 at Amazon

A restful night’s sleep is a dream come true. But spending a small fortune can be a nightmare. If you’re shopping with a smaller budget, then this Amazon Basics cooling mattress topper is for you. It has a simple design — it’s essentially a giant slab of blue memory foam — but effectively keeps you cool and comfortable all night long.

“It is definitely a great bang-for-your-buck option,” says Gould. “It’s a good choice for those seeking a quick cooling fix without dropping a ton of cash.”

On a scale of one to five, Gould gave this cooling mattress topper a 2 for firmness. “It’s thick, but it isn’t fancy,” she says. “It’s pretty airy and so it feels mushy. The thickness level was superior compared to other mattress toppers.”

While this mattress topper is thick, cushy and cooling, Gould didn’t like the fact that it doesn’t have a protective cover. The lack of a cover led her to question the topper’s longevity. “Without an additional protective layer it’s probably going to absorb more sweat and dirt over time,” she says. “However, it’s respectably durable.”

Once you add this cooling mattress topper to your cart, you can expect it to arrive at your door tightly rolled in a compact box. The topper itself is wrapped in a protective layer of fabric and an instruction manual is included. But you will want to heed Gould’s advice: “You do need to be careful when cutting this open,” she cautions. “The snug packaging requires some surgeon-level cutting.”

WENDY ROSE GOULD FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Memory Foam Cooling Mattress Topper

Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper

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If you enjoy snuggling up in body-hugging memory foam, then you’ll love this Puffy mattress topper. It’s made of 2.5 inches of pressure-relieving memory foam and is available with a firm or soft feel. And its ultra-soft cover is the icing on the, well, bed.

“I give this a 5 out of 5 for comfort,” raves Gould. “This was my favorite mattress topper by far. It has a moderate firmness, which I like, thanks to responsive memory foam and its soft, cushy cover.” In fact, Gould loved this topper so much that when she finished all of her testing, this is the topper she chose for long-term use. “I loved my bed before, but this somehow made it even more comfortable. I look forward to going to bed every night because of how comfortable it is,” she raves.

Gould describes this cooling mattress topper as well-made and comfortable with a nice, subtle cooling effect. She especially loved how it stayed put once on her bed. “It fits across the entire mattress and stays snug thanks to the elastic bands and corner pockets that tuck over each corner of the bed,” she explains. “That topper is going nowhere!”

WENDY ROSE GOULD FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Plush Cooling Mattress Topper

Bedelite Cooling Mattress Topper

$29.99 at Amazon

Memory foam isn’t for everyone. If you prefer something more plush, this Bedelite mattress topper feels like a cloud on your bed. Down alternative filling gives this mattress topper a pillow-y feel while breathable cooling fabric keeps you comfortable. Plus, the long, sheet-like side panels on each side help it cover and stay on your mattress.

“It has a nice cooling effect and provides a very light layer of cushion underneath,” says Gould. “It enhances a mattress that’s already comfortable. My mattress is very comfortable, so the pairing worked well.”

Gould adds that while this cooling mattress topper feels more like a comforter than a dense foam, it’s not as full or fluffy as shown online. “In the pictures, this mattress topper looks very full. However, it’s not as thick or plush-looking in real life. It did get slightly better over a few days, but not nearly as fluffy as the pictures show.”

In spite of it not being as puffy as shown online, this mattress topper is still one of Gould’s top picks, especially given the affordable price tag. “This is a great option. Instead of the dense foam you sink into, this is essentially a puffy comforter filled with alternative down,” she raves. “The cooling effect is very nice — one of the best that I tried! It’s a good choice for those who want only a little extra cushion over their mattress and some cooling.”

WENDY ROSE GOULD FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Smart Cooling Mattress Topper

Perfectly Snug The Smart Topper

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Tech enthusiasts will love the Perfectly Snug Smart Mattress Topper. It has a built-in fan that cools or heats your bed and dual zones so you and your partner can sleep comfortably. There are three cool fan settings, as well as warm and hot settings, allowing you to find your perfect temperature.

“It’s definitely the most tech-y way to cool,” says Gould. “Whereas most mattress toppers rely on a cooling gel, this one cools you down with a fan built into the topper itself. The fan mechanism creates a cooling sensation through the night similar to a regular fan, but helps under the covers, too.”

This smart topper features a 3D mesh layer, which allows active air flow and a comfortable layer of memory foam, all wrapped in a soft polyester cover. It has two connection ports — one for each sleeper — that need to be plugged into a double-sided cord. The brand recommends downloading their app before use though you can use this topper with or without the app.

While this topper is sure to keep you as cool or as warm as you prefer, there are a few things you may want to consider. “I like that it provides a higher-tech experience, and that you can customize each side for either sleeper,” says Gould. “But you could feel the hard mechanical box at the foot of the bed. If you’re very tall this would be especially frustrating, but it’s still apparent in some sleep positions even as a short person.”

Like many smart products and bed cooling systems, this topper doesn’t come cheap. It starts at $1,399 for a twin size, so be sure to keep your eye out for sales.

What to Look for When Buying a Cooling Mattress Topper

• Cooling features: Many mattress toppers are made from memory foam or latex which can trap heat. Marten Carlson, a Mattress Expert and a Certified Sleep Science Coach at Mattress Clarity, advises looking for features like cooling gel foam, copper- or graphite-infused foam, or aerated foam. “While each of these materials works differently, they can all help maintain a temperature-controlled sleeping environment throughout the night,” he explains.
• Thickness: According to Nichole Mondshein, a Sleep Product Expert at Sleepopolis, the thickness of the topper you choose can also influence its cooling performance. “A thinner topper tends to be more breathable, as it allows for more airflow and prevents you from sinking too deeply into the material,” she explains. If you prefer something thicker, opt for a cooling gel option, recommends Mondshein. “The deeper you sink into the material, the more heat is likely to be trapped,” she says.

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, our goal is to help you confidently shop for products that are going to enhance your home and your life. This especially applies to products that will help you sleep better. Our editors and testers have years of experience in the commerce world and have tested hundreds of sleep-related products, from mattress vacuum cleaners to cozy comforters and everything in between.

For this article, we also consulted Marten Carlson, a Mattress Expert and a Certified Sleep Science Coach at Mattress Clarity as well as Nichole Mondshein, a Sleep Product Expert at Sleepopolis. Carlson and Mondshein offered their expertise and valuable insights to help us select the best cooling mattress toppers.

How We Found the Best Cooling Mattress Toppers

We researched dozens of cooling mattress pad options, taking into consideration materials, features and price tags. Next, we consulted with two sleep experts to understand what which toppers will actually enhance your sleep experience. Finally, we sent our selections to our tester, Wendy Rose Gould. Gould slept on each mattress topper for a minimum of five nights, evaluating the firmness, comfort, durability and cooling properties of each one. She also took into consideration the packaging and setup of each mattress topper. Once she completed her testing, we compiled her findings into this comprehensive guide to help you find the best cooling mattress topper for your needs and budget.

FAQ

What to look for when buying a cooling mattress topper?

Our experts recommend looking for a thin mattress topper with features like cooling gel foam, copper- or graphite-infused foam or aerated foam.

Do you put a fitted sheet over a cooling mattress topper?

Yes. Most cooling toppers are designed to remain effective with a fitted sheet on top.

The post 5 Best Cooling Mattress Toppers, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Family Handyman.

I’d been hearing a lot about the brand, which broke onto the scene just a few years ago and has since become a large social media presence. As the story goes, founder Eric Girouard set out to create a relatively affordable boot with an easy break-in time and, of course, all of the necessary safety and convenience features.

Brunt makes several styles. I chose the Marin, one of their most popular models. It has a moc-toe (moccasin-reminiscent) design. Boots with this u-shaped seam on top of the toe box are known for being more flexible and lighter than those with a solid-toe design. That makes for a boot that’s easier to wear all day, especially if your job keeps you, literally, on your toes.

Here’s how my testing went and what to expect from these boots.

What are Brunt Work Boots?

Brunt work boots are a line of safety boots made for construction, agriculture and other job site work. They come in various models: moc-toe, traditional toe, pull-on (cowboy boot) and running-shoe styles.

Brunt makes only one women-specific model, the Marin Women’s. It’s available down to size 6.5. Beyond that, most of their models start at size 7 men (8.5 women), which is limiting for those of us with smaller feet. On the plus side, most of their models are available up to size 16, which is fantastic for those with huge trotters.

The model I tested, the Marin Women’s, has an appealing look — tough enough to be taken seriously on a job site but also a tad fashionable. I wouldn’t be surprised if some women keep wearing them after the proverbial quittin’-time whistle blows.

However, the boots’ safety features are much more important than aesthetics: they are waterproof and designed specifically to withstand slick and muddy environments, with slip-resistant, oil-resistant and heat-resistant soles.

The women’s model is only available with a soft toe and in a 6-inch height. The men’s version, however, is available in 6 and 8-inch heights and with added toe-box options, including a non-metallic composite safety toe or their “brunt” toe, which includes a durable rubber reinforcement on the front.

Each pair includes an extra insole, which is removable to accommodate wider feet (up to EE), plus a nylon shank for mid-foot support. They are also made from “barnyard-resistant leather,” which the company claims helps protect them from oleic acid, sodium chloride and ammonium hydroxide, which can damage regular leather.

Their leather is also sourced from Texas steers, which the company claims are “the highest quality hides available.” I’m sure Texans agree, though there are likely some ranchers in my Colorado Valley who would beg to differ! (Also, note that while the leather is from the USA, it’s ultimately made into boots in China, Vietnam and India.)

KARUNA EBERL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

The Marin Women's (Soft Toe)

Shop at Brunt

$145.99 at Amazon

Brunt Work Boots Features

Brunt work boots were designed with safety in mind. The Marin models include a waterproof and breathable membrane, and the men’s version also comes with a composite safety toe option. The soles are touted as being slip and oil-resistant, non-marking and heat-resistant to 572 degrees. They also have an ASTM electrical hazard rating of F2413-18.

For comfort, they’re made to break in quickly, like in a matter of hours. An internal nylon shank for mid-foot support helps prevent foot fatigue, and polyurethane midsoles provide extra cushion. The insoles have three layers, again for more precise support and cushion, and include an anti-odor treatment. There’s a second insole insert, which can be removed to accommodate wider feet. They are also lightweight compared with many other brands, coming in at 1 lb. 14 oz. for a single boot.

For durability, they have barnyard-resistant leather, heavy-duty eyelets with pass-through and wrap-around lace hooks and double and triple stitching at the various stress points.

How We Tested It

My first impression of the Brunt Marin boots is a little embarrassing. Instead of admiring their burly nature, I thought, “Wow, these are actually kind of cute.”

But, at least for me, aesthetics don’t carry much weight on the job site. I care about how my feet feel after a long day and how well they are protected when I drop a hammer on my toes. To figure out the answers to those, I slipped them on and got to work framing our garage.

First, the boots have a quality lacing system. Thanks to heavy-duty metal eyelets and upper cuff adjustments, including wrap-around lace hooks, it’s easy to fine-tune their fit. The hooks particularly came in handy since my ankle is a little small for the cuff of these boots, so those helped me crank down on the laces to get ample support.

For the first half hour or so, the boots were dastardly uncomfortable. My heel wouldn’t nestle into the pocket, so the heel cup dug into my Achilles. I ended up pulling out the extra insole—a design intended to accommodate extra-wide feet—and that did the trick. My heels settled down into a much better position. And even though I have pretty narrow feet, the extra width wasn’t entirely annoying.

After that, the boots broke in quickly. Within an hour they were starting to conform to my feet, and at the end of the day, I didn’t have any sore spots to complain about. The slip-resistant soles worked fine on concrete, even after it rained, though I did not test them in an oily environment (that will have to wait until the garage is done and we’ve been fixing our cars in it!). They also kept my feet at a comfortable temperature on warm days, and then also after a cold front came roaring in and we were working in 40-degree weather.

While we were waiting on a materials delivery one day, I also decided to test the Brunts out in the garden. I normally wouldn’t wear work boots for such an occasion, but it felt like a good chance to see how versatile they are, especially with tasks that require a lot of kneeling.

I was pleasantly surprised at how flexible they were. I was up, down and stretched out all over the place, trying to spread mulch on a few dozen plants to protect them from the impending winter. I didn’t feel like I was being held back in terms of range of motion, and the boots held a nice shape: they didn’t buckle or put undue pressure across my toes.

They also didn’t pick up any thorns, burs or dirty splotches, which was way more than I can say for the seat of my pants. While I was at it, I also let the garden hose run on them for a while. Yep, they’re waterproof! The leather got slightly darker, but only for five minutes or so; then it popped back to its original color.

Finally, I gave the Brunts the hiking test. I know that’s not what they’re meant for. But we went camping, so I figured I’d give that a shot, too. As it turned out, that was not such a great idea. Although they are lightweight, they lack padding and really aren’t comfortable enough to walk long distances in, at least for me. The tread pattern also doesn’t grip well enough for proper scrambling around on rocks. I guess that’s why hiking boots are for hiking and work boots for working.

Sadly, I only ended up wearing the Marins for a week. Ultimately, they were too boxy for my feet, and that clunky feeling caused me to stumble a few times. I prefer a more nimble shoe, which is why I often choose hiking boots over work boots in general, especially on lighter-duty projects (and since Brunt doesn’t make a women’s work boot model with a protective toe box, I wouldn’t choose these for tougher job sites anyway).

Beyond that, the Marins also didn’t fit well overall, which isn’t unusual for me and my footwear. I’ve never been able to stand wearing a pair of Nike’s, either. Unfortunately, that means I didn’t get to test them for longevity and durability.

But I did talk to someone who switched to Brunt Boots a few years ago and has had success with them lasting a long time. “When choosing boots, I consider the price point, durability, weight and overall appearance. Brunt is a great choice as it meets all these criteria,” says Glenn Gracey, President and Founder of Glenn Gracey Plastering in Pennsylvania.

In the end, though, I do like my Brunts enough that I’ll definitely keep them around for those occasions when I have to get particularly mucky or when I need to look like a fashionable handyperson.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’ve been testing and recommending precision footwear for over three decades, starting when I became a professional ski boot fitter at age 16. I have tested everything from leather and hard-shell mountaineering expedition boots to hiking boots, trail-running shoes and even flip-flops. While I have personally gone through a number of work boots during my home construction projects over the years, for this review, I also enlisted the expertise of mountaineer and avalanche forecaster Brian Raffio and construction worker/Brunt boot enthusiast Glenn Gracey.

FAQ

Can you only buy brunt boots online?

No, besides being sold on Brunt’s website and other online shopping sites, Brunt boots are available in several retail stores as well.

Who owns BRUNT Workwear?

Brunt Workwear is a privately held company based in Massachusetts. It was founded by Eric Girouard, who is still the CEO, and financing is made possible by venture capital backers.

What to look for in a work boot?

Fit is one of the most important considerations when buying a work boot. “Your work boots should feel snug but not too tight,” says Brian Raffio with Climbing Kilimanjaro. “Ensure there’s enough room for your toes to wiggle and that your heel stays in place to prevent blisters and discomfort during long hours.”

He also recommends paying attention to boot height, material (whether leather, synthetic or combo), waterproofing, traction, insoles, toe protection, lacing system, weight, breathability, insulation and price. “Before making a decision, try on several pairs and walk around in them to assess comfort and fit,” he says. “Keep in mind that the right boot for one person may not be the best for another, so select the pair that suits your individual needs and preferences!”

The other vital consideration is safety. “Wearing the right work boots can mean the difference between a safe day on the job and a debilitating injury,” says OSHA spokesperson Danisha Braxton. “Strong, durable footwear not only protects workers’ feet but also supports long-term health and productivity.”

When purchasing work boots, OSHA recommends considering protection, including:

• Metatarsal guards,
• Toe guards,
• Combination foot and shin guards,
• Electrical hazard, safety-toe shoes or boots, and
• More, as detailed in this bulletin, as well as this one about protective footwear requirements.

What Others Had to Say

Reviews of Brunt work boots range from rave reviews about their comfort and price to those who find them a bit uncomfortable and to wear out faster than expected.

Adam Beasley of the blog Lazy Guy DIY was pleased with their quick break-in time. “I had them on for maybe 20 minutes before I felt that comfort level hit while digging holes,” he writes. But ultimately they didn’t fit him well, plus he received a number of comments from readers about their (lack of) durability. “Sometimes it’s hard to pick through jaded ambassadors, legit reviews and review bombers. So I’ll leave it at that,” he writes.

An unidentified writer on Iron Pros was overwhelmingly positive about the boots, writing, “Overall, the BRUNT Marin is a game-changer for me. They’re the most comfortable work boots I’ve ever worn, and they seem built to withstand the daily grind of construction work. If you’re looking for a top-notch boot delivered straight to your door, the Brunt Marin is absolutely worth checking out.”

Glenn Gracey, President of Glenn Gracey Plastering and a consultant on this article, is a “massive fan of the Brunt boots,” which he switched to from Red Wings a few years ago. “Overall, I appreciate the price point,” he says. “Additionally, Brunt boots are lighter than Red Wings, providing protection and comfort without the extra weight. A common misconception is that big name brands are the only quality options. These brands often come with a higher price tag, but Brunt offers the same quality and functionality without the premium price.”

Brunt Work Boots vs. Timberland Pro Boots

Which is better: Brunt or Timberland? It depends since both companies offer a wide variety of options. However, in general, both companies offer models that are price-competitive and which feature composite toes, waterproofing and electrical hazard ASTM ratings. Timberland offers a superior variety of women’s models, while Brunts tend to be lighter weight. In the end, the best boots to buy are those that feel the most comfortable on your foot since everyone’s feet are shaped a bit differently.

Final Verdict

Overall, I found the Brunt Marins to be of decent quality, with plenty of desirable features like waterproof leather, reinforced stitching and safety certifications. On the plus side, they are relatively lightweight and take no time at all to break in. They are also a great price, especially for how stylish they look. But, in the end, they just don’t fit my feet. Because of that, I couldn’t wear them long enough to test their durability.

Where to Buy the Brunt Work Boots

KARUNA EBERL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

The Marin Women's (Soft Toe)

Shop at Brunt

$145.99 at Amazon

Depending on the model, Brunt work boots range in price from around $140 to $269. The Marin Women’s, which we tested in this article, costs $140. The largest range of choices concerning style, height, color, toe box protection and waterproof options can be found on Brunt’s website (you can also buy Brunt Workwear clothing there). Otherwise, Brunt boots are available online on Amazon and Zappos.

The post Brunt Boots Review: I Built a Garage in Brunt Work Boots, And Here’s What Happened appeared first on Family Handyman.

After testing this set for the past three months, I’ve seen how it performs with dark clothing, hairy pet beds, extra-large comforters, and smelly workout clothes. Here’s what you need to know.

What is the Maytag washer and dryer?

VIA MERCHANT

Maytag Front Load Washer with Extra Power and 16-Hr Fresh Hold

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Shop on The Home Depot

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VIA MERCHANT

Maytag Front Load Electric Dryer with Extra Power and Quick Dry cycle

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Shop on Best Buy

The Maytag Front Load Electric Washer with Extra Power and 16-Hr Fresh Hold and Front Load Electric Dryer with Extra Power and Quick Dry Cycle are complementary stackable models with large capacity, an Energy Star certification and a variety of settings and features. The washer can connect to Wi-Fi through a Maytag app.

The direct drive motor and stainless steel wash basket are covered by a 10-year limited parts warranty. Similarly, the dryer has a 10-year limited parts warranty on the drive motor and drum. Both the washer and dryer are available in three colors: volcano black, white and metallic slate.

Maytag Washer and Dryer Features

The front-load, 4.8-cubic foot capacity washing machine offers 14 cycles for your load of laundry. These include an assortment of settings, including specialty options for towels and bulky items. Use the ‘Quick Wash’ cycle for small-scale loads that are slightly dirty. Thanks to extra-high spin speeds, they will be clean in 15 minutes. Meanwhile, the ‘Sanitize’ cycle uses ultra-hot water temperatures to remove 99.9% of household bacteria.

Extra Cleaning Power at the Push of a Button

An ‘Extra Power’ button in the middle of the cycle display provides increased cleaning power. It boosts stain-fighting capability on any wash cycle with a unique dual-temperature wash. Press the ‘Wash Cycle’ Knob to activate the ‘Extra Power’ option, which activates a cold prewash cycle before the main cycle starts. When ‘Extra Power’ is started, the ‘Wash Cycle’ Knob will illuminate, and the run time remaining on the display will increase.

Unique Washer Options

With just a touch, you can activate additional wash options and features. These include:

• A Fresh Hold setting keeps clothes from getting musty by periodically tumbling them while circulating air from an internal fan. Clothes will stay fresh for up to 16 hours after the original wash cycle ends.
• A Steam option adds additional soak and wash time with a steam boost to many cycles, providing added cleaning power to remove tough stains. A built-in heater helps maintain perfect wash temperatures.

The Wi-Fi Connect option allows you to use the Maytag app to connect your washer to your home WiFi network. Features include remote start/stop from anywhere, cycle notifications and the ability to schedule wash cycles. There are also smart tips, a stain guide and more.

Sturdy and Built to Last

The 4.8-cubic foot capacity provides enough space to clean 30 towels at once. The direct-drive motor has the power to handle large loads, and the stainless steel basket is designed for many years of washes and built with rugged materials to last.

A Dozen Cycles

The front loading 7.3-cubic foot capacity dryer has 12 cycles covering everything from delicates to bulky items. Like the washer, a sanitizing cycle uses extra-hot drying temperatures to remove up to 99.9% of common household bacteria. There’s also a steam refresh cycle that can spruce up your tired clothes without having to wash them. Meanwhile, the Quick Dry cycle allows you to dry a small load fast. When you combine it with the Quick Wash cycle on the washer, you are able to get some clothes ready to wear in quick order.

Get Extra Power to Dry Faster

The Extra Power option can be used with both Timed Dry and Sensor Cycles. Press the Cycle Control knob to activate the Extra Power option, which provides an additional 10 minutes of cycle time. When Extra Power is activated, the Cycle Control knob will illuminate, and the estimated time remaining on the display will show 10 additional minutes.

More Drying Options

The Wrinkle Prevent option is useful if you are not able to immediately remove a load. By touching the Wrinkle Prevent button, you get up to 150 minutes of periodic tumbling to help reduce wrinkling.

The Reduce Static option tells the dryer to automatically tumble, pause and introduce a small amount of moisture into the load to help reduce static and cut down on cling. This option adds approximately three minutes to the total cycle time.

The Steam option adds steam to the end of certain Sensor Cycles to help smooth wrinkles. It can be used with high or medium heat settings and adds approximately 15 minutes to the total cycle time.

Stackable

To accommodate tight spaces, a washer-dryer stacking kit can be used to place the dryer on top of the washing machine, freeing up extra room in your laundry area. To stack the machines, you need to purchase a stacking kit (approximately $50-60) that corresponds with your exact models. Whirlpool makes specific kits for its Maytag line of appliances.

The kit includes all the parts needed to safely support the washer and dryer, as well as detailed installation instructions. Maytag says installing the kit will require basic hand tools and novice repair experience, but having them installed by a professional might be worthwhile if you think you’d be unable to lift the bulky dryer onto the washer.

How We Tested It

I washed two small dog beds, which used to cause trouble in my old machine. The beds would never come out fully clean, and I would have to use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe out the washer and dryer afterward because they would be filled with dirt or fur. That was not the case this time. There wasn’t a bunch of gook left in the washing machine., and I didn’t have to use a lint roller to get the fur from our long-haired dog off.

When I put the dog beds in the dryer, I once again used the Bulky Items setting and let it rip. At the end of the cycle, the dog beds were dry and free of dirt and dog hair. Any stray dog hair landed in the lint collector, which was easy to remove. I was highly pleased that I did not have to clean out the inside of the washer or dryer, as I’ve had to do with previous machines!

Cleaning a Comforter

I also wanted to wash a new king-sized comforter before using it because it was smelly. It fits with ease inside both the washing machine and dryer, and it couldn’t have been easier. Previously, when I washed comforters or heavy blankets, the washing machine would tilt and stop working — requiring a reset. And with the dryer, multiple cycles were needed to get the comforters or blankets dry. This time, the comforter handled the wash cycle flawlessly. I think the lack of an agitator on the front loading machine allowed a better washing function.

Things did not get off-kilter, and the comforter came out fresh and clean. It took one cycle to dry it in the dryer, and it turned out perfectly warm and dry. I was so gleeful about it!

Washing Dark Clothing

For the next load, I washed a variety of dark clothing, including black leggings and black dress clothes. With our old machine, when I would wash dark clothes, they would come out covered in lint and/or dog hair. There was nothing that frustrated me more when that would happen. I can’t tell you how many things were ruined. With the new machine, I set the clothes to the normal setting. At the end of the cycle, when I pulled everything out, I was so thrilled not to have anything stuck to my clothes. The washing machine delivered with flying colors.

Workout Gear

Next, I wanted to do a load of workout gear that had been sitting in the laundry basket all week. Everything was dirty and smelly when it went in, and it came out clean and fresh. The extra power buttons are fantastic: I honestly wasn’t sure if they were necessary, but it’s a great feature. Be sure to add extra detergent to the extra power compartment.

Front-Loading Washer vs Top-Loading Washer

Let’s talk about what it’s like to have a front-loading wash machine versus a top loader. Ourprevious washer was a traditional top-load machine with an extra-large capacity. The size was nice, and you could select a pre-soak button that would fill up the machine halfway and then let your stained clothes sit in the water and detergent to get some extra attention. But, as I mentioned earlier, our old machine would tend to freeze up with bulky loads. It would also make a lot of noise. And when the load was finished, I usually had to stand on my tip toes to get things out of the bottom of the drum.

With the front load machine, there is no pre-soak setting. I suppose you could stick everything in the bin, start a wash and hit pause to create the same effect. But maybe it’s not necessary with all of the great settings on this machine. Plus, I’ve seen a number of comments from experts online that suggest your laundry will touch the laundry soap and water more often on a front-loading machine than it would on a top-loader that uses an agitator.

After using the front-loading washer for a while, I feel that it’s hard to tell when the machine is full. Maytag says the washer can handle 30 towels at once, but well before you get to that number, you start to feel like you’re piling up pancakes on the breakfast plate and wonder if the syrup will make it to the bottom of the stack. But they’re right. I’ve overstuffed the machine multiple times with two weeks of clothes, and everything is getting clean!

Pros

• Stackable or side-by-side
• Steam setting
• Comes in multiple colors
• Extra power feature gets clothing very clean
• 16-hour fresh hold
• 10-year warranty
• Available in electric or gas

Cons

• Hard to hear end-of-load alerts
• Some buttons are similar or duplicative, which is confusing

FAQ

What is the advantage of leaving the door open on the washer when it’s not in use?

You need to leave the door open all of the time when not in use so it doesn’t develop mold or mildew.

Can I do a full load on a quick wash and quick dry?

No. The settings are not meant for that. Quick Wash and Quick Dry should be used for small loads.

The dryer has both a ‘Regular’ and a ‘Normal’ setting. What’s the difference?

Though they sound similar, they are slightly different. The Regular setting lasts for 57 minutes on the second temperature setting out of four. The Normal setting uses hotter temperatures and lasts longer. It goes for 1:27 and uses the third temperature setting out of four.

Is Maytag made in China?

Though the various parts for the machines might be sourced from around the globe, these washers are assembled in Clyde, Ohio, and the dryers are assembled in Marion, Ohio.

Who owns Maytag now?

Maytag was a standalone company for more than 100 years before it was acquired by Whirlpool in 2006. In addition to washers and dryers, the Maytag brand makes refrigerators, dishwashers, ranges and microwave ovens. Other Whirlpool-owned brands include KitchenAid, JennAir and Amana.

What other reviewers/experts had to say

“The dryer is as nice as the matching washer,” said a verified Best Buy reviewer. “It auto senses dampness and dries accordingly. It is also quiet, perhaps even more so than the washer.”

“Steam is nice, as is the wrinkle guard,” said a verified Best Buy reviewer. “The dryer seems to actively adjust the time remaining based on sensors and usually ends up drying faster than anticipated.”

“We have had this washing machine and the matching dryer, both on pedestals for the last month,” said a Maytag reviewer. “They are FANTASTIC.”

Final Verdict

This Maytag washer/dryer combo delivers everything you would want for a large or small household. These machines can easily handle bigger jobs like comforters, dog beds and jumbo loads of towels. They can also pivot to smaller loads, delicates, or a quick wash of clothes if needed on short notice. This dynamic duo does an amazing job at everything I throw at them.

You will not be disappointed in the washing machine’s cleaning power or the dryer’s drying power. These good-looking machines are also stackable, so they can fit into a smaller space. I highly recommend them.

Where to Buy the Maytag Washer and Dryer

This Maytag washer and dryer set is available at Maytag, The Home Depot, and Best Buy. The washer is just under $900, and the dryer is around $800.

The post Maytag Washer and Dryer Review: Made Like They Used to Be appeared first on Family Handyman.

I have used dozens of leaf blowers in my day and can confidently say I’ve experienced a wide range of performances from blowers. I started my leaf blower journey with the classic handheld Stihl BG86C blower. Since then, I have personally owned and tested five handheld gas blowers, nine backpack leaf blowers (both battery and gas), three handheld corded electric leaf blowers, and 11 handheld battery-powered blowers.

What Is the Battery-Powered Toro Leaf Blower?

When Toro designed their new battery leaf blower, we were shocked to see how much thought went into the design and the performance. You can easily tell that the team that pulled this blower together included people like me, who have used dozens of blowers and knew that Toro needed to push the envelope to stay competitive in the battery-powered leaf blower space.

I admit that I was skeptical when I first received this blower. Toro, a brand with an amazing reputation for providing some of the most powerful zero-turn mowers, has long been known for its success with golf course management tools and a wide range of commercial products. However, they have only recently begun to dip their toes in the battery-powered space, starting with their classic lawnmowers, which I have come to know and love.

TYLER GRAHAM FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

Toro Flex-Force 60-volt Max 900-CFM 165-MPH Battery Handheld Leaf Blower

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Toro Leaf Blower Features

The blower boasts a whopping 900 CFM (cubic feet per minute) and 165 MPH air speed, both of which are at the top of the game in the leaf blower world. You can reach the maximum airspeed by using the “Turbo” button, which is meant for temporary blasts of air that help remove wet leaves and grass from surfaces.

This blower also comes with a concentrated nozzle, which helps further focus air and increase overall air speed for targeted clean-up. The Toro battery-powered blower also comes with several easy-to-control measures, including a textured grip, a well-balanced body, variable speed and cruise control so that you don’t tire out your hand, and an aggressive design that helps hold the blower down and forward.

You can use the 60-volt battery on the Toro leaf blower on other 60V Max products from Toro, which saves you money on buying new batteries for these tools in the long run. As Toro continues to build out the 60V Max lineup, this can result in huge savings for the average homeowner who doesn’t have to buy a new battery with each tool.

How I Tested the Toro Leaf Blower

Assembly

The new Toro battery-powered leaf blower was very simple to put together. It comes in two or three pieces that easily snap together. I quickly snapped the nozzle onto the base of the blower and excitedly rushed out the door to start eviscerating leaves.

Job Site Test (Commercial Landscaping)

I used the Toro battery-powered blower on the job site first. Having recently re-started a landscaping company, I had about eight lawns back-to-back on my first day with the Toro blower. I was excited to see how it would perform relative to other handheld battery blowers. My first stop was mowing my friend Chase’s house. He lives in a nice neighborhood with lots that are about ¼ acre or less.

This presented the ideal opportunity to see how the Toro blower would perform on a typical lawn. Another positive of using the battery-powered Toro blower is that Chase has two small kids that I knew napped at various points throughout the day. My gas-powered backpack blower could wake the dead with its high noise levels, so having an electric tool was great for making sure I could maneuver around their home without waking the kids.

I will also caution that most handheld battery leaf blowers aren’t used for commercial landscaping purposes. They aren’t designed to last all day, and I knew that going into this round of testing. Other blowers, including electric ones, are designed to go with you on the job site. Toro designed this blower for residential homeowners looking to crush leaves and debris in their backyard, put the battery back on the charger and get on with their life. That doesn’t mean I am not going to push the blower to its limits and use it however I can.

Home Test

I used the Toro on my yard after the first time mowed again after a week straight of rainfall here in middle Tennessee. The grass clippings were still a bit moist. If you have ever used a leaf blower after mowing a moist lawn, you will understand that this situation is headache-inducing. Wet grass sticks to concrete like nothing you have ever seen. In order to get it off, you generally have to either wait until it dries, use a push broom, or have a blower that can somehow lift it off of the concrete.

Most leaf blowers put out about 400-500 CFM. Even some of the most powerful backpack leaf blowers will put out 700 CFM or so of air. At 900 CFM, the Toro 60V Max may be one of the most powerful handheld leaf blowers I have ever seen. The combination of tremendous air volume output with wind speeds of 165 MPH means that very few blowers on the market come close to this amount of power.

So naturally, I had to use this on the famous wet grass clippings to see how it would do. It was an absolute demolition. The leaf blower removed almost every blade of grass from the concrete driveway. I was so impressed that I wanted to ring the doorbell and tell my friend all about it. I have never seen a blower, especially a handheld battery-powered leaf blower, push this much air and perform so well.

Blowing Heavy Debris

I set this blower back in the trailer and moved on to the next house. At the next job, I was looking at a garden bed that had been washed out with water and spread mulch all over the lawn and sidewalk leading up to the front door. The mulch was a shredded hardwood mulch and was mostly dry by this point. Before I mowed the yard, this needed to be cleaned up. It presented a perfect opportunity to give the Toro 60V blower a chance to run wild by blowing mulch in the grass (which is notoriously difficult) and pushing it across a sidewalk.

The blower accomplished both of these. Moving mulch across concrete was a breeze, and I was shocked to see how easily it lifted the mulch out of the thick, long grass and placed it back into the garden bed.

I moved onto the third house of the day, which was just like the first one. The grass was slightly dryer, and the clippings blasted back into the grass easily. At this point, I was texting my wife, telling her I couldn’t believe it.

As a second reminder, this blower was not designed for professional landscapers in the same way that gas-powered leaf blowers are. Those can run all day because you can keep buying and pouring gas into the blower for as long as you need. Toro’s new blower obviously requires you to recharge the batteries.

Long-Term Performance

In my personal use of this blower around my house, which seems to be more and more neglected the more I work on other people’s lawns, I continued to be impressed with the Toro leaf blower. In the course of my normal weekly lawn maintenance, I found the blower to have consistent, extremely powerful performance.

One downside I noticed relatively early is that when you use the turbo button off and on, there is a noticeable drain on the battery life. I expected extremely high power to reduce battery life, but I was a bit disappointed to see how quickly it reduced battery life. Without using the turbo button, I still had more than enough battery life to care for my yard (and then some).

As the weeks passed and leaves began falling from the trees, I retested the Toro battery blower once more. Leaves were absolutely light work for this blower. The blower is an absolute bully for drying leaves, easily launching them across my yard. The turbo button was unnecessary, but I had to use it for the sake of science. It was total and absolute destruction of the leaves.

Pros:

• Extremely high power with 900 CFM
• Ergonomic grip with easy maneuvering
• 60V Max battery system used across Toro’s 60V lineup
• Finger-saving cruise control function
• Much quieter than gas blowers
• Turbo button to toggle maximum speed

Cons:

• Battery life drains with Turbo usage
• Fewer tools in Toro’s battery lineup than some other brands

Why You Should Trust Us

As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, I have personally tested dozens, if not hundreds, of leaf blowers, including backpack blowers, corded electric blowers, cordless blowers and gas-powered handheld blowers.

As a landscaper, I developed a unique love for lawn tools after using them every day for years. Now, I spend my days testing lawnmowers, string trimmers, leaf blowers and more. Much of my time is spent using new leaf blowers and comparing them to see which one reigns supreme.

FAQ

How long does a Toro leaf blower last?

The Toro leaf blower advertises a run time of 120 minutes—but this is generally on a low-speed setting under ideal conditions. In my experience, the blower can run for about an hour for typical use around the house, where you may maximize the power for a longer time. Introducing the turbo button drops the run time to about 30 minutes.

How do you use the Toro battery-powered leaf blower?

The Toro battery leaf blower can be easily controlled using the variable speed trigger, which changes the amount of power coming from the battery. It also has a cruise control function that holds a certain speed in place, allowing your hand to relax and hold the blower—no more cramping.

This is a handheld leaf blower, meaning you simply pull the trigger and point it at whatever debris you want to blow away.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

While the Toro 60V Max Battery-Powered Blower is still relatively new, the few who have used it have agreed with me—it rocks. One reviewer at  Lowe’s felt similarly, calling the blower a “powerhouse” with “the size and weight of the blower working perfectly to balance the blower when used in turbo mode.” Another reviewer at Lowe’s had the same experience as me, using this blower on “1/2 acre of concrete around their farm” and mentioned that the blower “gets rid of those pesky leaves and grass clippings.”

Toro Battery-Powered Leaf Blower vs. Ryobi Battery-Powered Leaf Blower

I’ve had the distinct privilege of using the Toro and Ryobi battery-powered leaf blowers. The Ryobi battery-powered leaf blower is a great blower. Ryobi’s new Whisper series produces quiet, powerful tools that can be found at The Home Depot for a great price. Ryobi’s Whisper series blower was the cat’s meow when it was released. It had one of the highest CFM and MPH ranges on the market and was advertised as the quietest blower.

Times have changed in the last two years. There are a number of other blowers in a similar power range that also exhibit quiet run times. The Toro battery blower simply outguns the Ryobi blower. I have used both side-by-side, and the Toro is the better blower.

Final Verdict

I can confidently say that this is hands down the best combination of price, power and performance on the market. I am excited that Toro will continue to build out their electric lineup with the 60V Max batteries so that I can achieve better cost efficiency in the future. I also think Toro can keep refining their battery technology so that the batteries last longer.

All in all, this blower has set a new standard for power in handheld electric blowers.

Where to Buy the Toro Battery-Powered Leaf Blower

TYLER GRAHAM FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

Toro Flex-Force 60-volt Max 900-CFM 165-MPH Battery Handheld Leaf Blower

Shop at Lowe's

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You can grab the Toro battery-powered blower from Lowe’s with the battery for just under $350, and you can use the battery with other Toro lawn tools.

The post I Tried the New Battery-Powered Toro Leaf Blower, and Here’s How It Went appeared first on Family Handyman.

Before ordering your Christmas tree this year, here’s everything you need to know, especially if you want to create extra holiday magic with an app-controlled, smart Christmas tree.

What is the Twinkly Christmas Tree?

The Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree is a pre-lit artificial Christmas tree—an Aspen Pine, to be exact—with multicolor RGB lights. The Twinkly app controls the lights and lets you choose and design lighting effects through your phone. The preset lighting effects include options like rainbow, snow and fireworks light patterns.

“There are literally dozens upon dozens of preset customization options—different color combinations, patterns and animations,” says Product Testing Manager Annamarie Higley. “It might be a little overwhelming when you open the app to all the flashing colors and lights. But it’s also kind of fun to go through all the options.”

With so many lighting options available, you can select a preset pattern and then, beyond that, adjust its speed and brightness, combine patterns and animations, or completely start from scratch and layer a bunch of different colors and patterns over each other. The possibilities for unlocking peak Christmas magic are endless.

Here’s a breakdown of the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree’s specific product features.

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Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree

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Twinkly Christmas Tree Product Features

Size

The 7 ½-foot Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree is 90 inches tall and 51 inches in diameter. Our product testing team measured the tree at 90½ inches and found it to weigh more than 50 pounds despite the product description indicating it weighs just 33 pounds. About 15½ inches stand between the floor and the bottom of the first branch—plenty of room for presents from Santa.

Setup

According to our testers, setup is conveniently a one-person job. Even moving the box (before opening) is easy. The entire tree took only 15 minutes to fluff! The lighting process is easy, too—just plug in and go.

The Twinkly Christmas Tree’s quick-set power pole makes assembling each pre-wired section of the tree a breeze, no hassling with extra wiring or messy cords.

Lights

The Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree is pre-lit with 390 smart RGB LED lights. RGB lights combine red, green and blue hues to create millions of color options. So, no color is off-limits when it comes to your holiday tree experience. You can choose classic warm white options with a subtle twinkle or bright rainbow colors with a flashing effect and just about everything in between. You can even sync the lighting display with music. The lights also turn on and off with a convenient foot petal, so Christmas magic is literally just one step away.

Appearance

Our testers described the needles on the tree as a combination of “plasticky and papery.”

Product Tester Sheri Kaz says, “It’s a darker green color, which is nice but solid and uniform, so the tree loses a few points for realism there.”

“The tree is pretty full,” Sheri adds. “The lights are nice and bright, but it feels like there could be some more spread throughout the middle and bottom sections.”

Our team noticed minimal drooping with this tree and very little shedding. They suggest the Twinkly Christmas Tree should hold up for many holiday seasons to come.

Smart Control

The Twinkly app lets you customize lighting effects, sync your display with music, set timers for automatic lighting and more. Let your Christmas creativity shine by designing a custom light show. Build your own animations from scratch or use pre-set templates throughout the season. Using the playlist feature, you can even set up multiple scenes and switch between them.

Take your Christmas party to the next level by syncing your Twinkly lights with music. With the addition of the Twinkly Music USB dongle, the Twinkly app can make your tree lights dance to your favorite holiday tunes.

With the Twinkly app, you can set timers to turn your smart lights on and off automatically. Schedule your Christmas tree lights to turn on with your house lights at dusk or program them to only light up on certain days. Whatever you decide, you won’t have to think or worry about manually turning on your tree lights.

How We Tested It

Our product testing team unboxed, assembled and measured the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree in the studio, where they fluffed it until it was full and presentable. That process was timed. Our testers ensured the product was easy to set up while also noting minor discrepancies regarding size between the product listing and real-life measurements.

Our testers also lit the tree, which involved downloading, registering and pairing the tree with the Twinkly mobile app. From there, they tested all the settings and functions to evaluate the app’s user-friendliness, compatibility and capabilities. Despite initially being a little overwhelming due to the sheer volume of lighting options, our product testers found the Twinkly app user-friendly and intuitive. If you’re looking to set up more than one tree model in the Twinkly app, you may first spend some time setting up the app. Our team did. However, once they got through the initial troubleshooting, the app could easily manage more than one unit.

Our team outfitted the tree with a collar and ornaments to ensure that the branches could withstand standard-size ornaments. They also swept and collected any needles that were shed during the assembly and disassembly process. The Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree shed virtually no needles and was easy to put up and take down.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our Product Testing Lab put the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree through rigorous testing and collected approximately 275 data points testing Christmas trees ahead of the holiday season this year. In total, they spent an estimated 60 collective hours testing Christmas trees, including researching, sourcing, intaking and testing. They also spent time photographing the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree so you can see how it looks under real, natural lighting without any photoshopping tricks.

FAQ

How does the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree work?

The tree works by using the Twinkly app to control the lights. From your phone, you can map the location of each LED light on the tree for custom lighting effects, choose from pre-programmed modes and create your own lighting effects. You can also set timers for your lights, group multiple Twinkly products together so they act as a single display and use voice control through Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

How much is the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree?

The Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree retails for $840 on Amazon.

What Other Reviewers Have to Say

With more than 600 reviews on Amazon, the Twinkly Pre-Lit Aspen Pine Smart Christmas Tree earns a 4.5-star rating.

“This is my first ever artificial tree and I have to admit it was a tough choice. Like most, I’ve enjoyed the ritual of going and getting a tree, the smell of fresh pine, and having the feels over a good pick at the tree lot,” says verified purchaser Ty Carriere. “This year was different. I’m an empty nester now and it didn’t feel the same getting a tree by myself, plus though I love the smell of pine throughout the house, I hate the clean up after. So this year I decided to get an artificial tree and I’m really pleased with this purchase!”

“[The] light patterns are controlled through presets on the connected box or a phone app and are extremely customizable (no literally, I can draw what patterns I want on the tree and how they are animated on my phone, it’s brilliant),” Ty adds. “Scheduling when you want the lights to come on and off through the app and even which patterns at what time. Looks great!”

“I was skeptical getting this tree online at first because of some of the reviews on the lights not working properly when connected,” says five-star reviewer Elicia, “The app was a bit frustrating to work with at first but once we found the directions everything was a breeze. I’m so happy with how you can change the lighting colors and effects from glow to twinkle…”

Final Verdict

While it is a sizable investment, our testing proves the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree is worth the splurge if you want to up your Christmas game this holiday season with a smart Christmas tree. Our team made positive remarks about the Twinkly app, too. In fact, many smart Christmas tree brands—like the coveted Balsam Hill Blue Spruce—use Twinkly for pre-lit, smart options.

Where to Buy the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree

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We Tried It

Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree

544.6612% OFF$481.78 at Amazon

The Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree retails for $840 on Amazon.

The post Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree Review: We Tried It, and Here’s What Happened appeared first on Family Handyman.

Designed for larger hands, these Corona pruners are said to be capable of cutting everything from flower stems to dead branches. In order to determine whether or not these are worthy of pruning for your garden, our testers put them up against a variety of stems, birchwood dowels and dead wood ranging from 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 inches wide. Their findings may surprise you. Here’s everything you need to know before adding the Corona pruners to your cart.

What Are the Corona Pruners?

The Corona Classic Cut Pruners measure 8.5-inches long, have a 6.5-inch handle spread and are designed for larger hands. They’re equipped with a curved bypass blade made from high-carbon steel and have a cutting diameter of up to one inch. A non-slip textured grip and weight of just 12.5-ounces makes them easy to carry around the garden.

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We Tried It

Corona Classic Cut Pruners

These Corona pruners are supposed to cut branches and stems up to 1-inch in diameter. Our testers insist this is overstated.

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Corona Pruners Features

Sharpenable Blade

You can sharpen the blades on these pruners, allowing you to use them year after year.

Wire-Cutting Capabilities

These pruners feature a tiny notch toward the base of the blade designed for wire-cutting.

Lifetime Warranty

Corona guarantees that these pruners will be free of material and workmanship defects for the life of the tool. Just be sure to save your receipt as you will need an original proof of purchase for any and all returns.

How We Tested the Corona Pruners

Associate product testers Sheri Kaz and Dylan Fischer began the testing process by noting the pruners’ weight, measurements and callout features. Right away, they noted how wide and heavy these pruners felt in their hands. They did point out that the brand’s website indicates that these pruners are made for larger hands. However, they worried that these pruners would quickly cause fatigue.

Once they concluded their observations, our testers took these Corona pruners into Sheri’s backyard for testing. They gathered three sizes of wooden dowels, deadwood branches and stems in various sizes, and greenwood branches and stems, including cherry wood and an asparagus plant, in various sizes. 

Our testers ran the first test with a series of 0.25-inch stems. Unfortunately, the pruners did not meet our testers’ expectations. “It took a surprising amount of force just to cut through the smallest dowel,” says Kaz. “We thought that it would at least cut with good force considering how unwieldy it is.” Moreover, these pruners left jagged edges on the stems.

During the second test, these pruners could not cut the birch dowel without maximum force and several tries. “It took a lot of force and two hands to cut an actual dead branch,” explains Kaz. Once the dowel had been cut, our testers noted that the dowel had been split and the sides had been smooshed.

For the final test, Dylan attempted to cut through a 0.75-inch dowel, deadwood branch and asparagus. He noted good cut quality on the asparagus, but it did not cut through the dowel or deadwood. “It couldn’t cut through deadwood or dowel although the specs says it can cut up to 1 inch,” he explains. “The packaging emphasizes getting the branch into the blades are far as you can. But once you have the handles open all the way it’s near impossible to wrap your hand around it, let alone have enough strength to cut through.”

Pros

• Priced under $40
• Designed for large hands
• Packaging allows you to test it in the store
• Replacement parts offered on the brand’s website
• Lifetime warranty with proof of original purchase

Cons

• Poor cutting quality
• Handles are too wide
• Caused hand fatigue
• Overstated product specs
• Grip is not cushioned

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, our goal is to help you shop with confidence. This is especially true for gardening tools, which help enhance your home’s curb appeal. Our editors and testers have years of experience testing hundreds of products from pruning saws to tree trimming tools, allowing us to bring you the most comprehensive guides on tree pruners and loppers.

For this series on pruners, our product testers spent a total of 45 hours closely examining 11 pairs, including these Corona pruners. They performed 14 tests on each pair and collected roughly 300 data points overall.

FAQ

How do you sharpen Corona hand pruners?

For best results, Corona recommends using their carbide sharpening tool.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Out of 50 reviews, these Corona pruners received 4.5 stars. Many purchasers are impressed by how sturdy they feel and their overall ease of use.

One verified buyer is especially appreciative of the high quality construction. “They are built to last with a replaceable blade that’s easy to sharpen…The older pair I have is still functional except that the spring and keeper wore out after 5 years of heavy use. No plastic parts in this model!”

“They are strong, sharp and a little heavier than I expected,” writes another verified buyer. “Very useful for small pruning.”

Corona Pruners vs. Felco 2 Pruners

Our team tested 11 pruners including the Corona Pruners and the Felco 2 pruners. Both pruners are almost identical in size and are rated for large hands. However, our testers found the Corona pruners to be unwieldy and cumbersome.

During testing, our team struggled with the Corona pruners. They required two hands and a lot of force to cut through all of the branches, stems and dead wood. And once cuts were made, they were jagged, smooshed or split the wood. Our team found no reason to recommend the Corona pruners, insisting they are going to cause fatigue more quickly than other pruners.

On the other hand, our testers loved the Swiss-made Felco 2. The Felco 2 features an ergonomic form and contoured finger grips for comfort and safety. Better yet, our team described the Felco 2’s cuts as clean, excellent and like butter. And while they cost around $20-$25 more than the Corona pruners, the Felco 2 is the better choice. Read our full Felco pruners review to learn more and see where to buy them.

Final Verdict

Unfortunately, not every product we test is a winner. Such is the case with these Corona pruners. “These are extremely unwieldy for even Dylan’s hands, and this doesn’t even pay off with any kind of heavy-duty performance,” says Kaz. “The only good thing we can say is that the packaging allows you to test it at the store, so you can at least tell right away if your hand is large enough to hold it.”

Where to Buy the Corona Pruners

These Corona pruners retail for $38.99 and are available at Ace Hardware, Walmart and Tractor Supply Co.

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We Tried It

Corona Classic Cut Pruners

An unwieldy grip and poor cut quality prevented our testers from recommending these pruners.

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The post Corona Pruners Review: We Tried It and Were Not Impressed appeared first on Family Handyman.

The only downside of my laundry game was that I had an older washer and dryer without many features or special settings that made the chore even easier. That is, until I got the opportunity to test the Electrolux washer and dryer. And now, it’s nearly impossible to get me out of the laundry room with this reliable washing machine and dryer. Here’s my Electrolux washer and dryer review.

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I Tried It

Electrolux 600 Series Washer and Dryer Set

With large drums and many cycles and settings, this set can transform your laundry game.

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What Is the Electrolux Washer and Dryer?

The Electrolux 600 Series washer and dryer set includes the Front-Load Perfect Steam Washer with LuxCare Plus Wash and SmartBoost and the Front-Load Perfect Steam Electric Dryer with Balanced Dry and Instant Refresh (available in gas and electric). Both machines have large drums, making them ideal for anyone who likes to wash their bedding regularly, as well as many cycles and settings to customize the washing and drying experiences.

These machines can be purchased separately or as a set, and you have the option of adding pedestals to your order. The benefit here is that the washer and dryer stand taller for easier use, and you get the added storage for detergent and whatnot without taking up extra room. Both of the machines are extremely quiet, so even though they’re not exactly compact, they could still be considered an apartment-friendly washer and dryer.

How We Tested It

From delivery to washing and drying clothes, I went through each stage with the Electrolux washer and dryer and have tested the set for six months so far.

Ordering and Delivery

I’m not going to sugarcoat it: The whole delivery experience was a nightmare. I can’t put that on Electrolux, though, because my set wasn’t ordered through the brand’s website. Still, a damaged dryer, a million phone calls and just an enormous headache later made the ordering and delivery process super tough. I can’t imagine that this happens with every washer and dryer delivery through this particular retailer, but I think it’s important to call out.

Once everything was finally sorted, delivered and installed, I couldn’t have been happier with how the Electrolux washer and dryer looked in my basement. They are really beautiful appliances and look expensive. Honestly, they’re everything I’ve wanted in a washing machine and dryer (because, you know, that’s what your dreams become once you hit your 30s).

Washing

As someone who enjoys doing laundry so much, I couldn’t wait to fill the stainless-steel drum. I’m sure that I was supposed to read the manual, but I wanted to see how intuitive the control panel was the first time I used it.

I had zero issues switching between the cycle options, like Optic Whites, Heavy Duty and even Activewear, but I just went to Normal. Months later, it’s still the one I use most often. From there, I chose my water temperature (cool), soil level (normal) and spin level (medium).

I placed my detergent pod into the designated slot (which is separate from liquid detergent, liquid bleach and fabric softener) and let the machine do its thing. The Electrolux washer made a clicking sound to indicate the door was locked and off it went.

The very first thing I noticed after the cycle was done in about an hour was that my clothes were spun really well. There wasn’t a drop of water coming off my clothes. That’s when I realized that maybe my previous washer wasn’t as great as I thought. It wasn’t the most powerful at spinning at the end of the cycle, so my clothes took a solid 24 hours (and even longer for thicker pieces) to hang dry.

But with the Electrolux, I can hang up shirts, pajama pants and cardigans up at night, and by the afternoon the next day, they’re ready to put away. As the laundry doer of my home who hangs a lot of the clothing that comes through, I appreciate this to an unfathomable degree.

I haven’t had the chance to test out every setting on the Electrolux washer. Luckily, I haven’t had a clothing crisis that required that handy 15-Minute Fast Wash. But when I have a particular piece of clothing to wash, I know I’ll have just the right setting to have it handled with care and keep it looking its best.

If I’m going to nitpick this washing machine, it’s an issue that probably won’t impact most people. At the beginning of the drum, there’s a silicone piece that wraps around the opening. When I do my toddler’s laundry, her tiny socks tend to get stuck in there, so they’re pretty soaked when I have to dig them out. This is a very niche problem, of course, so I’m happy that’s the biggest of my worries.

Drying

The control panel on the Electrolux dryer is just as easy to use as the washer. I don’t find myself having to toy with the options very often, and I typically use the Normal setting with a temperature of and dry level of “normal” and the auto-dry time.

Depending on the cycle you turn the dial to, those other settings will automatically change to what it thinks is best, but you can still customize those options, too. Whether I’m drying my husband’s athletic shorts, our sheets or a pile of towels, I’ve found the Normal setting to be sufficient. But there are plenty of options to choose from, including Delicates, Air Dry and Instant Refresh, which are gentler for fragile pieces.

One of the best parts of both the washer and dryer are that the drums are huge, meaning that I can put my queen comforter in both with room to spare. With my previous dryer, I would often take the comforter out of the dryer to see that it got wrapped up into a ball and the inside was still wet. So, I would unravel it and run it through another dry cycle.

That’s not ideal on bedding laundry days, but with Electrolux dryer, there’s 8.0 cubic feet for the comforter to bounce around and dry in every section. Plus, with the moisture sensor, the machine smartly estimates how long it’ll take for the load to dry (and I’ve found it to be accurate).

I honestly can’t think of a negative aspect of this dryer. It does its job, gives you customizable option so you don’t sweat over your most special pieces and looks really nice even in the unfinished part of the basement.

Pros

• Many wash and dry cycles and settings
• Large drums
• Quiet
• Side-by-side or stackable setup
• Sleek design
• Available in titanium and white colors
• Steam feature on both washer and dryer
• Stainless-steel washer drum
• Moisture sensor in dryer

Cons

• Very small items could get caught in the front silicone part of the washer’s drum
• Water gets into the detergent section and needs to be emptied

Electrolux Washer and Dryer Features

The Electrolux washer and dryer can be placed side by side or stacked on top of one another. Both machines are Energy Star-certified, meaning they meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) . Each unit has a reversible door, and the washing machine has a front-load design as opposed to a top-load design.

“Standard front-load washers are generally more expensive upfront compared to top-load washers, but they offer better energy efficiency than a standard top-loading washer, potentially leading to long-term savings on utility bills,” says Glenn Lewis, president of Mr. Appliance, a Neighborly company.

Here are the features that make this Electrolux set super impressive.

Electrolux 600 Series Front-Load Washer

• Specialty wash cycles:
  • Optic Whites: prevents the redeposit of dirt and other residues
  • 15-Minute Fast Wash: washes items super quickly
  • Hand Wash: uses a gentler washing motion than the delicates cycle
• SmartBoost: premixes water and detergent before the cycle begins to maximize cleaning power
• Automatic water level adjustment: modifies water levels to the amount of clothing
• Perfect Steam: removes tough stains
• Sanitize setting: kills and removes 99% of bacteria
• Pure Rinse: removes detergent residues and fragrances for sensitive skin
• Adaptive dispenser: designed to accept pods
• Extra-large capacity: 5-cubic-foot drum

Electrolux 600 Series Front-Load Dryer

• Specialty dry cycles:
  • Instant Refresh: removes wrinkles and refreshes items from light wear in 10 minutes
  • 15-Minute Fast Dry: dries items super quickly
  • Air Dry: uses gentle drying with very low heat
• Balanced Dry: prevents temperature spikes to keep fabrics cooler throughout the dry cycle
• LuxCare dry system: uses an advanced moisture sensor to prevent over or under-drying
• Luxury-Quiet sound system: doesn’t make a lot of noise
• Luxury-Design lighting: features premium light-emitting diode (LED) lighting
• Control lock: locks the electronic controls
• Extra-large capacity: 8-cubic-foot drum

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

This Electrolux washer and dryer set is impressing laundry doers everywhere. Here’s what shoppers have to say in their Electrolux washer and dryer reviews:

“I am 100% impressed with my new washer. I’m very fussy with my laundry, and this machine is supreme!” writes Shelley, a five-star Wayfair reviewer. “I absolutely love my new dryer. Love all the features, the ease in using and the quiet sound.”

Stef817, another five-star Wayfair reviewer, says, “I’m considered a ‘crunchy mom,’ so I use all natural laundry detergent. I would have to use SO much for our clothes to smell clean. After getting this matching washer and dry set, I’m using less soap AND our clothes feel, look and smell so much cleaner! We got the pedestals too and the storage is so great!!”

“We purchased this washer and the matching dryer about six weeks ago. These units replaced a washer/dryer pair from another company that we have relied on for years. After multiple breakdowns, we decided to research our options and decided to purchase these Electrolux units. There is no comparison with [these] units being easier to use, built much better and they look fantastic!” shares Wayfair buyer Markb.

Final Verdict

There’s a lot to love about the Electrolux 600 Series washer and dryer set: the smart features, the efficient washing and drying, the sleek design, the optional pedestal storage—I could go on and on. There wasn’t anything wrong with my previous washer and dryer set, per se. But after testing the Electrolux washer and dryer, I see where my previous set lacked.

My clothes no longer take a whole lot of time to hang dry after being taken out of the washer. I no longer have to put my comforter through a second drying cycle. And now I have more features to play with than I know what to do with (but I’m hoping that makes my laundry game that much better!). Overall, I’m beyond thrilled with these machines and would recommend them to any friends and family members (yes, at full price).

Where to Buy the Electrolux Washer and Dryer

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I Tried It

Electrolux 600 Series Washer and Dryer Set

The washer and dryer can either be placed side by side or stacked on top of one another to fit your space.

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You can shop the Electrolux 600 Series washer and dryer set on the brand’s website, as well as Wayfair, Lowe’s and AJ Madison. You can also shop the washer and dryer separately and add the pedestals.

FAQ

What is the life expectancy of an Electrolux washer?

In general, both washers and dryers typically last around 10 to 14 years, depending on usage and maintenance, notes Glenn Lewis, president of Mr. Appliance, a Neighborly company. To get the most life out of your machine, Lewis suggests doing a monthly cleaning of your washer and cleaning out the lint filter in your dryer in between loads. Also, a professional should help with lint buildup at least every year.

“I cannot stress enough the importance of an annual maintenance check on your dryer and even your washer. Doing this service can help prevent your appliances from breaking down at the worst possible time when you need them,” says Lewis.

Who makes Electrolux washer and dryers?

The Electrolux Group, with a headquarters in Sweden, owns Electrolux, as well as Frigidaire and AEG.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’ve been an editor and writer since 2014 and working on commerce content since 2017, so I’ve tested hundreds and hundreds of products over the years. That includes an outdoor gazebo, a garage storage system, a bed frame and more—and that’s just for Family Handyman. So, I’m used to taking my time with larger products and taking note of everything from delivery to setup to usage. For this Electrolux washer and dryer review, I put the machines to use almost daily for over two months before sharing my thoughts. I also consulted with Glenn Lewis, president of Mr. Appliance, for additional insights on the Electrolux washer and dryer and general washer/dryer concerns.

The post Electrolux Washer and Dryer Review: I Can Confirm This Set Works as Great as It Looks appeared first on Family Handyman.

This organic, non-toxic mattress is so supportive that it’s earned the endorsement of the American Chiropractic Association. In order to see if the Avocado Green mattress lives up to the hype, we tested it for two months. Here’s everything you need to know before ordering one for yourself.

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We Tried It

Avocado Green Mattress

Zoned support, a combination of coils and latex foam and edge support ensure a restful night's sleep.

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What is the Avocado Green mattress?

The Avocado Green mattress is a mattress made of Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)-certified organic latex and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified organic wool and cotton, plus up to 1,379 individually wrapped support coils. The coils are arranged in seven strategic zones to support your hips, back and shoulders. Each mattress also has a reinforced steel perimeter for consistent edge support. We also tested the Happsy organic mattress.

Every Avocado Green mattress is free of potentially toxic foams, chemical fire retardants and off-gassing materials. They are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and repeatedly screened against known and suspected harmful chemicals including formaldehyde and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

Each mattress is handcrafted in Los Angeles and designed to be used without a box spring. It’s available in six sizes and three firmness levels: firm, medium and plush, with profiles ranging from 11 to 15.5 inches deep.

Avocado Green Mattress Features

Three Firmness Levels

The Avocado Green mattress is available in three firmness levels: firm, medium and plush.

• Firm: The firm mattress is made with 3 inches of GOTS-certified organic Dunlop latex. It has an 11-inch profile and is generally considered to be the best choice for back and stomach sleepers.
• Medium: The medium mattress has 5 total inches of supportive GOTS-certified organic Dunlop latex. It also has an attached pillow-top which adds another 2 inches of GOTS-certified organic Dunlop latex. This mattress has a 13-inch profile and is recommended for side, back and combination sleepers. A medium-feel Avocado Green mattress costs anywhere from $595 to $850 more than a firm mattress.
• Plush: The Avocado Green plush mattress scores a 4 out of 10 on the firmness scale thanks to its 6 inches of natural latex rubber foam and attached 3-inch box top. The box top, which is ideal for side sleepers, is made using soft Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified Pure Talalay latex. It is constructed with mohair, wool and silk for an extra luxe feel. The plush mattress features an impressive 15.5-inch profile and costs an additional $1,275 to $1,445, depending on the size.

Back Support

Every Avocado Green mattress has up to 1,379 steel coils. Each coil is individually encased in fabric pockets and arranged in multiple gauges and seven ergonomic zones. This reduces motion transfer, keeps your back aligned, relieves pain, distributes weight more evenly, alleviates pressure points and contours to your body’s natural curves.

Naturally Cooling

According to the brand’s website, organic materials like wool and latex promote air circulation and moisture wicking without retaining heat, while the ergonomic coils ensure adequate airflow. Avocado does not use any special cooling fabric or chemicals.

Edge Support

The Avocado Green mattress has reinforced edging around the perimeter of the mattress, helping it to maintain its structure and provide support without sinking or compressing along the edges.

How We Tested It

Our tester, Nancy Snyder, opted to test a queen-size, firm mattress atop the Avocado Malibu Platform Bed Frame.

Delivery and Unboxing

The mattress arrived at her door in a tall and very heavy box that Snyder was unable to lift and move on her own. Luckily, she was able to recruit some help and brought the box into her guest bedroom to set it up. “Unboxing was incredibly easy, and Avocado has an instructional video to guide you every step of the way,” she explains.

Snyder points out that Avocado recommends giving it a full day to expand before sleeping on it. However, she found that it only took about 30 minutes for the mattress to fully expand. She was also pleased to discover that there were no odors or off-gassing.  And though there were some wrinkles present on the mattress, they disappeared within a few days. When asked for her initial thoughts on the Avocado Green mattress, Snyder had only good things to say. “This is one beautiful mattress,” she raves. “And the four straps — there are two on each side — are extremely helpful for moving it.” And it wasn’t just the aesthetics of this mattress that impressed Snyder.

“This was my first experience with a box mattress, and I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and comfort,” she says. “The mattress feels firm and plush all at once! It is extremely comfortable to lay on, adding just the right amount of support while still feeling luxurious like a cloud.”

Snyder also noticed that the mattress was cool to the touch. “I wondered if this would last after the bed was made, and was pleasantly surprised to find that it did remain cool (or at the very least, neutral), which proved very refreshing given the extended warm temps we have been experiencing in Phoenix.”

Sleep Testing

Although she set this bed up in her guest room, Snyder slept on it multiple times over the course of two months. She describes her nights on the Avocado Green mattress as restful and comparable to a five-star hotel. And while the firm mattress is recommended for back and stomach sleepers, she was quite comfortable sleeping on her side. “It wasn’t just ‘comfortable for a box mattress,’ says Snyder. “This might actually be one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever laid on. Our only regret? Getting this for the guest bedroom, as it was more comfortable than our main bedroom mattress!”

The only thing Snyder didn’t love about this mattress was the motion transfer. Though the brand claims that the coils reduce motion transfer, Snyder was able to feel her dog’s every move. “I could easily feel my dog jumping up and moving around on the bed beside me, and many other reviewers noted that they could easily feel every movement from their partner,” she explains. “But while this is important for some, it may not be a deal breaker for others.”

Pros

• Comfortable and supportive
• Cool to the touch
• High-quality look and feel
• No odors or off-gassing
• Available in three firmness levels
• Made with organic materials
• Easy to setup
• Free shipping

Cons

• Expensive
• Doesn’t eliminate motion transfer

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

From over 19,000 reviews, the Avocado Green mattress has earned an average of 4.6 out of five stars.

“We’ve had our mattress for 4 weeks and it is terrific. It’s very comfortable and easy to unpack,” writes verified buyer Natalie L. “We just got an email notification that it is time to spin the mattress 180 degrees (top to bottom—you do that for the first 6 months). Spinning it is easy and it never needs to be flipped, so that is a huge plus!”

And Kristen S. is glad that all of her research led her to Avocado. “I am writing this review bc I read literally hundreds of reviews before buying a mattress and was so overwhelmed! We have a king size Avocado Green mattress with the pillow top. We love it. It is as comfortable, if not more so, than the Stearns and Foster we were replacing,” she writes.

“The materials are high quality, and I am happy that they are organic and that Avocado is so transparent about what is in the mattress and where it comes from. The mattress is soft but firm—kind of like Stearns and Foster’s ‘cushion firm’ but without the toxic materials,” Kristen S. continues. “We sleep trialed a Naturepedic Concerto mattress before this Avocado and it was like a marshmallow, very squishy with little support (it was sent back). Anyhow, both my husband and I love the Avocado pillow top. It’s super comfortable and supportive. And we haven’t noticed any smell like other reviews have stated, whereas the Naturepedic smelled overwhelmingly of latex.”

Avocado Green vs. Silk & Snow

The Avocado Green mattress and the Silk & Snow mattress are boxed mattresses made of organic materials. Both mattresses have a combination of latex foam and coils and are offered in six sizes and three firmness levels. They’re also similarly priced. The Avocado Green mattress is hand crafted in Los Angeles and costs between $1,399 to $4,399. The Silk & Snow mattress is made in Canada and ranges from $1,300 to $3,100.

We tested both mattresses and found that the Silk & Snow’s latex was firmer than we would have liked. Additionally, our tester found that it held its shape versus cocooning her body. And while that may be okay for some, it may be a tad too firm for others. We also found that the Silk & Snow didn’t quite fit our tester’s queen-sized bed frame corner to corner. “You get a peek-a-boo view of the wooden slats of the bed frame if you look closely, even though the mattress is queen-sized,” writes Sabrina Tillman in her full review.

Final Verdict

“My particular mattress is $1999, which I think is extremely worth it,” says Snyder. “You can’t put a price on cool, restful sleep that mimics the comfort and luxury of a 5-star hotel bed combined with safe and natural organic materials.”

Where to Buy the Avocado Green Mattress

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We Tried It

Avocado Green Mattress

Our tester experienced restful, restorative sleep on the Avocado Green mattress.

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The Avocado Green mattress is available on the Avocado website. It ranges in price from $1,399 to $4,399 depending on the size and feel you choose.

FAQ

How long do avocado green mattresses last?

The Avocado Green mattress is designed to last 25 years. It even comes with a comes with a 25-year limited warranty.

Can you flip an Avocado Green Mattress?

No. According to the brand’s website, the Avocado logo should always be right side up. That said, they do recommend rotating your mattress once a month to ensure the top wool layers compress evenly.

Does the Avocado mattress have formaldehyde?

No. Every finished Avocado Green mattress is Formaldehyde-Free Claim Verified by UL Environment.

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, our team of editors and testers are always excited to try new products. We especially love testing products that enhance the quality of our sleep, since a good night’s rest is fundamental to a good day. We sent this mattress to Phoenix resident Nancy Snyder, who slept on it for two months. During that time, she focused on its overall comfort and performance. She also considered how easy it was to unpack, whether or not it had any odors and its overall value. “My nights were restful, similar to that of a five-star hotel,” raves Snyder. “And I love that it’s organic as it makes sense that the place you rest your head every night be made with natural materials.”

The post We Tested the Avocado Green Mattress and It Was Like Sleeping in a Five-Star Hotel appeared first on Family Handyman.

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“The Nest Bedding topper is my all-time favorite for a number of reasons,” says Shopping Editor Mary Henn. “It’s affordable, USA-made and CertiPUR-US certified, and it has significantly alleviated my chronic back pain more than any other mattress topper or mattress. Time after time, this is the mattress topper I recommend to anyone with aches, pains, soreness or stiffness.”

The Nest Topper adds immediate comfort, pressure relief and airflow to your existing mattress. It’s two inches thick and covered in luxury cooling fabric. Corner straps help hold it in place.

The topper is made with responsive memory foam, which has superior pressure relief properties for those with back pain. “The Nest Mattress Topper has alleviated much of the stiffness I was waking up with before,” Henn says. “I noticed the stiffness subsiding literally after one night. The Nest foam topper’s pressure relief properties soothed the immediate aching and stiffness I experienced while getting out of bed. I also sleep better, and the bed feels cozier. It provides the ‘sink-in’ experience without swallowing you up. I’ve really enjoyed sleeping on it.”

FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Eco-Friendly

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

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Henn says in her Saatva mattress topper review, “I’ll be honest: I was skeptical if a mattress topper could make much of a difference. But after testing several, I discovered that a good mattress topper can alleviate morning body aches and pains—even if you’re sleeping on an older mattress. I regularly wake up stiff and with intense back pain and soreness, and it’s only gotten worse postpartum. However, the Saatva Graphite memory foam mattress topper immediately made a difference.”

The Saatva topper is a three-inch memory foam topper infused with cooling graphite. The memory foam helps relieve pressure and tension while reducing motion transfer, so it’s great for those who need a gentle, cradling cushion for joints. It’s perfect for side sleepers who want a soft to medium feel.

“Going to bed on the new topper felt different and softer, but I noticed the real difference when I woke up the following day,” Henn says. “My typical morning stiffness and backaches were gone. My body needed something a bit softer to relieve tension and pressure, after all.”

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Best on Amazon

Dormeo The Premium Mattress Topper (Medium)

$479 at Amazon

The Dormeo mattress topper is a medium-firm memory foam topper. It features innovative Octaspring technology to facilitate a cooler and more supportive sleep surface. Its three-zone support sets the Dormeo mattress topper apart from other models. Firmer Octasprings cradle your hips and back in the middle of the topper, while softer Octasprings make up the zones around your shoulders and legs.

After sleeping on the Dormeo mattress topper, Product Tester Leah Groth noticed an improvement in her back. “Because the topper is so firm, it prevents my back from sinking into the bed,” she explains in this Dormeo mattress topper review. “However, it provides support at pressure points. I definitely noticed that my back was less achy, and my neck didn’t feel so strained after sleeping on it for a few nights.” She also found the topper cooling and breathable with a high-quality feel.

Groth loved how supported she felt while sleeping on the Dormeo mattress topper. However, she notes that there is some room for improvement. Though the topper is advertised as having a medium-firm feel, Leah found it to be a bit too firm for her liking.

“It was a little too firm for me,” says Groth. But the Dormeo mattress topper is worth checking out if you like a firmer sleep surface. “It is definitely well-made with high-quality materials,” she adds. And it’s thick.” We recommend pairing it with a medium-firm mattress like the Cocoon Chill or luxurious Saatva Classic Mattress.

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Best Budget

GhostBed Memory Foam Topper

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This three-inch cooling gel memory foam topper contours your body for maximum comfort and has three zones. The tighter zones at your head and feet are meant to provide a cloud-like feel where your body exerts less pressure; the circular pods in the middle are designed to react to pressure in (and mold to) your torso for pressure relief; and the wide-channel zones support your shoulders, upper body and upper legs while encouraging airflow.

Henn says this GhostBed mattress topper ticks many boxes for those with back pain. “While all the zones felt similar to me, I did appreciate how the topper molded to my shape,” she says. “I would be a little weary if you like something firmer. The GhostBed topper is incredibly soft.”

“If you like to sink into a mattress so much that you don’t move at night, this is perfect. The three-inch contouring and cooling memory foam is a single-layer topper with that ‘egg carton’ appearance,” Henn adds. “Because the topper provides that ‘deep hug’ feel, its cooling gel foam comes in handy to prevent overheating.”

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Best Washable

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper

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“I actually opted to keep the Tempur-Pedic topper on my bed after testing two other toppers,” says Groth. “It’s the most comfortable topper I tested. It is made of the brand’s trademark Tempur-Material, a high-quality memory foam made from the same material used to make their mattresses. It is definitely the least firm of the toppers I tried, but it offers a different type of support.”

Designed to conform to your body and deliver unique support and pressure relief, the Tempur-Pedic topper is adaptive and cooling. The well-known brand also offers an impressive 10-year warranty.

“Since sleeping on this mattress pad, I have noticed my pain has significantly decreased,” Groth says. “My body sinks into it, and the pad seems to support every part of my body by contorting to it. I wake up with significantly fewer aches and pains. I even hurt my hip flexor during a workout recently. I could barely walk. However, when I got into bed, the topper immediately provided pressure point relief. I was shocked when I woke up and felt much better in the morning.

How We Found the Best Mattress Toppers for Back Pain

The team at Family Handyman is always looking to discover the top bedding products for a restful night’s sleep. We were previously on the hunt for the best mattress toppers for side sleepers. Here, we researched, tested and reviewed the best mattress toppers for back pain because you deserve bedding that makes you feel good and provides a comfortable environment. We analyzed many top-selling mattress toppers for back pain before narrowing our list down to about a dozen we wanted to try.

From there, we found product testers with back pain to evaluate each mattress topper for quality, performance and comfortability. Our testers had these mattress toppers delivered to their own homes, as any consumer would. They unboxed them, let them air out and put them on their own beds. Each mattress topper was tested for at least five nights, except the Nolah Plush Mattress Topper, which our tester found uncomfortable and couldn’t sleep on for more than three nights.

During testing, our product testers collected dozens of data points for each mattress topper, including details on the setup, off-gassing, firmness, pressure-relieving abilities, and more. These rigorous tests over the last months gave us insight into five of the best mattress toppers for back pain on the market.

FAQ

Do mattress toppers help with back pain?

A mattress topper can help alleviate back pain and soreness by aligning your spine and providing support.

What thickness of mattress topper is best for back pain?

Mattress toppers between 2 and 4 inches thick are typically considered best for those with back pain. Heavier individuals might find a slightly thicker topper more comfortable.

Is a harder or softer mattress better for back pain?

A medium-firm mattress topper is best for those with back pain because it provides support and pressure relief. A too-soft topper can cause your spine to misalign if you sink into it too deeply, and a too-hard topper might put pressure on your hips, causing pain.

Why You Should Trust Us

We called on product testers who actually experience some form of chronic back pain to test every mattress topper on this list and then some. We asked them to thoroughly describe their experience and rate their pain while sleeping on their mattress before and after the use of each topper.

To test each mattress topper under true conditions, our testers slept on each topper for multiple nights in their own homes and on their own mattresses. They received, unboxed and set up each topper to tell us what the buying process is really like.

We also consulted sleep expert Derek Hales, CEO of NapLab, who tests and reviews mattresses. Hales has reviewed beds since 2014 and tested over 360 mattresses and other sleep products. He told us what to look for when shopping for mattress toppers for back pain.

The post 5 Best Mattress Toppers for Back Pain, Tested by People with Chronic Back Pain appeared first on Family Handyman.

“Opting for trusted brands ensures you receive a quality product backed by reliable customer support,” she explains. When it comes to trusted brands, there are several that Laznicka recommends, including Nokta, Garrett, Bounty Hunter and Minelab. Our team put 11 metal detectors to the test, including the Minelab Equinox 900.

Our expert product testers paid careful attention to details including how easy it was to assemble, its ergonomics and its overall performance. They even brought it to a local beach and were impressed to discover that this expert-recommended model was able to detect gold from farther away than most of its competitors. Here’s everything you need to know about the Minelab Equinox 900.

What is the Minelab Equinox 900?

The Minelab Equinox 900 is the latest model in the Minelab Equinox lineup. According to Laznicka, this upgraded version is a versatile metal detector suitable for beach combing, park searching, relic hunting and gold prospecting. It features an 11-by-6-inch waterproof coil, backlit digital LCD display and rechargeable battery. At just 2.85 pounds, it is extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.

This metal detector is loaded with useful features, including a built-in flashlight, multi IQ frequency setting and vibration feedback for underwater use and hearing impaired users, Additionally, it has multiple terrain-based presets and customizable discrimination patterns.

Priced at $1,149, the Minelab Equinox 900 is the most expensive model we tested. But given its features and overall ease of use, our product testers agree that it’s worth its weight in gold.

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Minelab Equinox 900

This metal detector is loaded with features including gold-specific settings, various terrain-based presets and vibration mode.

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Minelab Equinox 900 Features

Waterproof

The Minelab Equinox 900 is fully submersible up to five meters (16.4 feet) and vibrates when it detects something underwater.

Terrain-Based Presets

Choose from park, field, and beach. Each search mode has two search profiles to help you find what you’re looking for.

Gold Preset

According to our testers, the Minelab Equinox 900 is one of the few units they tested with a gold setting. It also has two search profiles.

Vibration

The Minelab Equinox 900 vibrates when an object is detected. This is ideal for underwater use and individuals with hearing impairment.

Custom User Profiles

Create up to four user profiles on the machine for personalized settings and functionality.

Backlit LCD & Built-in LED Flashlight

The backlit digital display and built-in flashlight allow you to use the Minelab Equinox 900 day or night.

How We Tested It

Product testers Annamarie Higley and Sydney Manning began by assembling the unit, a process they described as easy. “All you had to do is attach the head and slide on the arm cuff,” says Manning. After it was fully assembled and on Higley’s arm, our testers found that they liked the adjustable armrest.

They also liked the rubber on the underside of the handle, which made it easy to grip. However, they preferred the more comfortable foam grips found on other models. Additionally, they questioned how comfortable this metal detector would be overall, given that they were unable to get it tight or flush with Higley’s arm. Aside from these observations, our testers agreed that the Minelab Equinox 900 is very well made and they expect it to last a long time.

Our testers began their official testing process with an air test, which is a standard basic functionality test that many companies recommend prior to first use. To perform this test, our team placed the Minelab Equinox 900 on a non-metal surface outside and proceeded to wave a selection of metal items in front of the coils.

These items included a pair of 10k gold earrings, a copper pipe, aluminum foil, pull tabs, bottle caps, a screw and a nail. It was able to detect all of our items from a foot away or less. It detected gold from 8 to 10 inches away. “This is unsurprising because this is one of the few units with a gold setting,” says Higley.

Gold wasn’t the only metal the Minelab Equinox 900 detected. Our team was highly impressed when this metal detector  consistently detected various metals from roughly 10 inches away. Moreover, they found that it effectively discriminated against the nail and the screw in one of the terrain-based presets, which most other models were unable to do.

While the overall performance of the Minelab Equinox 900 impressed our team, its depth reader left much to be desired. According to Higley, the depth reader was typically incorrect. That said, it still did a great job picking up items that were deep beneath the ground. “We were really impressed how deep this metal detector could detect items, even through a bunch of big buried rocks,” says Higley.

Additionally, our team determined that the screen was not very intuitive. However, they noted that the manual is comprehensive and walks you through everything well.

The Minelab Equinox 900 will set you back $1,149 but our testers agree it’s worth the money. “Not many metal detectors are fitted out with gold-specific settings, but this one is. In fact, it has two gold settings—one for difficult ground and one for normal ground. The fact that this could identify 10-karat gold from 8 inches away and 14-karat gold from 10 inches away really wowed us,” raves Higley.

Pros

• Has gold-specific settings
• Nice included accessories
• Various terrain-based presets
• Smaller secondary coil head
• Rechargeable
• Vibration mode
• Quality construction

Cons

• Expensive
• Not the most intuitive to read

Why You Should Trust Us

In order to help you decide if the Minelab Equinox 900 is the right detector for you, our product testing experts on the product testing team spent approximately 80 hours in our lab getting up close and personal with 11 metal detectors. Several of those hours were spent actively testing the Minelab Equinox 900.

We performed 13 tests on each metal detector and collected roughly 600 data points overall. We also spoke to Joanna Jana Laznicka, metal detectorist and founder of Focus Speed. Laznicka provided expert insight on what to look for when shopping for metal detectors. She also detailed her experience with some of the best models on the market, including the Minelab Equinox 900.

FAQ

How deep can the Minelab Equinox 900 detect?

The Minelab Equinox 900 is able to detect items that are buried 8 inches or deeper.

Is the EQUINOX 900 good for beginners?

Yes. Higley and Manning are beginners and were able to successfully operate this metal detector. They had no trouble referring back to the user manual which they describe as comprehensive and easy to follow.

Can the EQUINOX 900 find gold?

Yes! The Minelab Equinox 900 has two gold-specific settings. Our team was able to identify 10-karat gold from 8 inches away and 14-karat gold from 10 inches away.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Detectorists love the Minelab Equinox 900. Most reviewers rave about its quality construction, accuracy and ease of use. Here’s what actual users have to say.

Verified Amazon user The Master Dude is a novice detectorist who is glad he opted for the Minelab Equinox 900. “I just started metal detecting in 2024 and I am so glad I purchased the Minelab Equinox 900. I have gone out detecting some old farms in Pennsylvania and this detector has impressed me every time,” he writes. “I recommend you watch some online videos to see how others have tested the Equinox 900. There are some excellent videos where the video person digs multiple depth holes and places coins in the bottom of each hole. I stand by their results because I have witnessed similar findings. I love this detector and plan to continue using it for many years to come. I also purchased an optional 15-inch coil so I can cover more ground. I feel it increases my productivity in the plowed fields.”

Pj, another five-star reviewer, purchased this metal detector as a gift for their husband and it was a huge hit! “I purchased this Minelab 900 detector for my husband’s birthday after he saw someone using one on the beach. He had another older brand that was years old and this one just blew him away for the ease and accuracy of use,” writes Pj. “He has taken the pro find pin pointer by itself sometimes when we go a short drive to the lake. He is still learning on how to use it because he is old school he is not into ‘tech’ stuff but he will have it all down soon enough.”

And Amazon user Lucinda Griffin is delighted to have upgraded to the Minelab Equinox 900. “There is a learning curve to using this, but that’s the same with any detector. Its preset programs are on point, and you can customize the way you want them,” she writes. “This thing is lightweight, making you swing longer without tiring out, and it is so compact when the shaft is slid up into its three sections. I upgraded from a Whites XLT and a V3i. I thought I loved that V3i, but found a new connection with this Equinox 900. I’ve only just begun to use it, and found 3 dimes and a quarter in my yard that I missed with the V3i. Looking forward to many hunts with this Nox900.”

Better yet, Griffin returned to update her review. “Update…this detector hits hard on silver! 11-inch deep dime and 8-inch deep half dollar, among more dimes. Loving it,” she raves.

The Minelab Equinox 900 vs. Minelab Equinox 800

The Minelab Equinox 900 is the latest model in the Equinox lineup. It’s also the most expensive, running $350 more than its predecessor. Is it worth the extra money? You bet, according to Laznicka. “The Equinox 800 has been known to experience waterproofing issues if left in hot cars, which can damage the seals. It also has a tendency for the coil ears to break. However, both of these issues have been addressed in the newer Minelab Equinox 900 model,” she explains.

Final Verdict

If your budget allows for a top notch metal detector, then this Minelab Equinox 900 is a no brainer. Its gold-specific settings and ability to detect items buried deep in the ground are sure to give you a leg up when it comes to finding buried treasure.

Where to Buy the Minelab Equinox 900

The Minelab Equinox 900 is available for $1,149 at a variety of retailers including Amazon, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops and Scheels.

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“Success in metal detecting is not determined by the amount you spend on a detector but by the time you invest in learning how to use it,” says Laznicka. “I know expert metal detectorists who solely use and get remarkable finds using the basic Bounty Hunter Tracker IV, which retails for $70 and can be found used for $30. Expensive equipment does not necessarily equate to better performance.”

The Bounty Hunter metal detector is one of 11 models that our expert product testers closely inspected. They paid careful attention to the details, including how easy it was to assemble, its ergonomics and its overall performance. After hours of testing, our team determined that this model is simple and easy to use, making it perfect for kids and beginners. Here’s everything you need to know about the Bounty Hunter metal detector.

What is the Bounty Hunter Metal Detector?

The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector is a multi-purpose metal detector that features an 8-inch submersible coil and old-school knob controls along with an analog-style interface. It runs on two 9V batteries (not included), has an adjustable length of 43 to 52 inches and weighs just 2.4 pounds. And while it does have an arm rest, it does not have an arm strap. Our testers found this to be rather strange given that there are slats in which to insert a Velcro strap. Additionally, the Bounty Hunter metal detector does not include any accessories.

The Bounty Hunter metal detector has three modes so you can discern trash from treasure: full discrimination, tone discrimination and all metal modes. It features automatic ground balance which neutralizes the detector’s response to mineral content in the ground but does not have any land type settings.

This entry-level metal detector retails for under $150. According to our testers, it is simple and stripped down. “It’s kind of like a glorified version of the kids’ models,” says associate product testing manager Annamarie Higley. “The analog interface doesn’t really tell you anything, but it’s easy to use if you’re just looking to have fun.”

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Bounty Hunter Metal Detector Features

Waterproof Searchcoil

The 8-inch searchcoil is completely submersible for underwater detection.

Three Discrimination Settings

This metal detector has three discrimination settings to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. These presets include:

• Full discrimination mode discriminates against most trash items and can be adjusted to be even more perceptive with the disc knob.
• Tone discrimination mode activates a “unique dual tone ‘beep'” and automatic iron rejection, which helps you better identify what your targets are from sound alone.
• Motion All Metal mode detects all types of metal including iron, steel, aluminum, brass, silver, copper and gold.

Automatic Ground Balance

This feature allows the Bounty Hunter metal detector to work in virtually all soil conditions, regardless of mineral content.

How We Tested It

Assembly

Product testers Annamarie Higley and Sydney Manning led the efforts to see what the Bounty Hunter metal detector was really capable of. They began by assembling the unit. Assembly was quick and easy and our team was able to get straight to work. At 2.4 pounds, this unit is very light and has a padded foam hand grip for comfort. However, the lack of an arm strap makes it difficult to hold.

“It doesn’t come with a strap, which makes it hard to hold,” explains Higley. “By nature, metal detectors have to be held at sort of an awkward angle, so without a strap as a counter, holding becomes very tiring on the forearm very quickly.”

Air Test

Once they managed to get a good grip, our testers performed an air test in all metal mode and then switched to full discrimination mode. Higley explains that this is a standard basic functionality test that many companies recommend prior to first use.

To perform this test, our team placed the Bounty Hunter metal detector on a non-metal surface outside and proceeded to wave a selection of metal items in front of the coils. These items included a pair of 10k gold earrings, a copper pipe, aluminum foil, pull tabs, bottle caps, a screw and a nail. The Bounty Hunter metal detector excelled at detecting aluminum, picking it up from six inches away or less.

However, our testers were disappointed in the performance when detecting gold. “Only a glitchy half-beep sounded, and the earrings needed to be two to three inches from the coils, at that,” explains Higley.

Discrimination Testing

During testing, our team also found that the discrimination mode didn’t do a very good job discriminating against ferrous items, which are metals that contain iron as their main element, or those with low target IDs. Though speaking of target IDs, our team found them hard to determine overall.

“The screen is virtually useless and isn’t at all intuitive,” says Manning. “Whenever we swing a metal item in front of the coil, the gauge that reads from 10 to 1 (left to right) bounces all the way to 1, then immediately back to 10 again. We thought this might be the target ID scale, but it’s impossible to read due to how quickly it moves.”

Overall, our testers agree that this metal detector is a great value for kids, beginners or anyone looking to have fun. Laznicka agrees. “I currently own 22 metal detectors ranging from budget-friendly to high-end models, including fie Bounty Hunters. Two are IV Trackers,” she says. “The IV Tracker, in particular, is an excellent analog detector. I know several fellow detectorists who, despite having the means to purchase more expensive models, choose to stick with the IV Tracker because of how well it does in relic detecting and old coin detecting.”

Pros

• Simple and easy to use
• Expert recommended
• Detected all of our test items
• Waterproof searchcoil
• Lightweight

Cons

• No arm strap
• Screen was very hard to read

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, we love helping our readers get the most out of their hobbies. Finding quality products that make your life easier and won’t leave you with a bad case of buyer’s remorse is a big part of that. From metalworking to woodworking to treasure hunting, we’re here to help. Our editors and testers have years of experience testing products and we prioritize publishing honest product reviews to help our readers make informed buying choices.

In order to help you make an informed buying decision, our product testing experts on the product testing team spent approximately 80 hours in our lab getting up close and personal with 11 metal detectors. Several of those hours were spent actively testing the Bounty Hunter metal detector. We performed 13 tests on each metal detector and collected roughly 600 data points overall. Moreover, we spoke to Joanna Jana Laznicka, expert metal detectorist and founder of Focus Speed. Laznicka offered her expert insight on what to look for when buying a metal detector as well as the pros and cons of various models.

FAQ

Will a bounty hunter metal detector find gold?

Yes, the Bounty Hunter metal detector will find gold. During testing, it detected 10k gold earrings from 2-3 inches away.

Can you use the bounty hunter metal detector in water?

The searchcoil is submersible and can be used in water.

How do I use the bounty hunter metal detector?

The Bounty Hunter metal detector is a motion detector. This means you must sweep the searchcoil from side-to-side in order to detect metal. Simply holding the searchcoil over a metal object will not register that a target has been found.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

The Bounty Hunter metal detector has over 9,800 five-star reviews on Amazon. Buyers find that it works well and is a great value.

Five-star reviewer David Whiteley was delighted to score this Bounty Hunter metal detector on sale and used it to locate his property pins. “I had read that this item was light–but it is like a feather! When it was delivered, I couldn’t believe it could possibly be in the box, yet it was,” he raves. “I assembled it in no time. Instructions are a bit vague but if you have any mechanical aptitude you should be able to figure it out.” And while he didn’t like the design of the battery compartment, Whitely was impressed by the detector’s overall ease-of-use, performance and affordability.

Marya Oakes, another satisfied Amazon user, refers to the Bounty Hunter metal detector as a great starter detector. “I wanted something cheap to find a lost item in the backyard,” she writes. “We have had lots of fun with this beyond that use. I watched a YouTube on the best settings to use and to learn the tones. With that knowledge, my daughter and I were able to find lots of items easily with this detector. It’s light and durable. We have not been gentle with it and it has held up great. The batteries last a long time. Most targets it has picked up have been 4 to 5 inches deep or less. I don’t know if it doesn’t pick up deeper targets or we just haven’t run across any.”

And while our testers weren’t crazy about the analog display, Retired Engineer loves it. “Most modern digital detectors generally only have five steps for discrimination and five steps for sensitivity. They work well, but you can’t fine-tune them like this one. You have to live with factory settings,” they write. “That’s why it was great to find this unit. This analog detector has a dial for sensitivity, and a dial for discrimination. In other words, a full range of adjustment! You can actually fine-tune this unit to filter better at specific depths and materials, adjust for different soils, etc. Yes, you’ll need to get the feel of the detector to be proficient, but once you do, you’ll get great results!”

Bounty Hunter vs. Sunpow Metal Detector

Our experts on the product testing team tested 11 metal detectors. The Bounty Hunter and the Sunpow metal detectors have comparable features and are similarly priced at about $149 and $142, respectively.

Both metal detectors are lightweight and have waterproof searchcoils. They both run on 9V batteries, have several discrimination modes and produce sounds to alert you that a target has been found. That said, the Sunpow metal detector has two more settings than the Bounty Hunter metal detector.

When it comes to performance, both metal detectors are suitable for beginners and were able to detect gold from just a few inches away. One noticeable difference between the two models is the screen. The Bounty Hunter has an analog interface while the Sunpow has a backlit screen. Our testers found the Sunpow’s screen intuitive and easy to use, especially for beginners whereas they described the Bounty Hunter’s screen as “useless.”

While our testers weren’t head over heels for the Bounty Hunter metal detector, it’s worth repeating that this model is used and recommended by expert metal detectorists. With a little patience, time and practice, we’re confident that our testers would soon get the hang of the Bounty Hunter metal detector and be on their way to finding treasures galore.

Final Verdict

If you want a simple yet reliable metal detector, then the Bounty Hunter metal detector is an excellent choice. Whether you’re a detecting newbie or a seasoned pro, this lightweight model is easy to use and adept at uncovering buried treasure. Best of all, it’s extremely affordable.

Where to Buy the Bounty Hunter Metal Detector

The Bounty Hunter metal detector is available at a variety of retailers including Amazon, The Home Depot, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Bass Pro Shops.

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With so many mattress and mattress topper options on the market, I first needed to narrow the possibilities by listing my priorities. Because I’m concerned about chemicals and sensitive to odors, I focused on organic mattresses. Within the nontoxic mattress lineup, I wanted a Goldilocks option—not too springy and soft, but with firm support, the right amount of pressure relief and a lush top. Simply put, I wanted a mattress that slept like a dream and that I could happily sleep on for many years. The Happsy organic latex hybrid mattress checked all those boxes, so I tested it.

Here is what I learned through the course of unboxing and sleeping on the Happsy, plus which sleepers I recommend this mattress for. Spoiler alert: I can’t believe I didn’t make this switch years ago!

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This nontoxic mattress helped our tester's allergies and provided comfortable sleep.

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What is the Happsy mattress?

Happsy is an online bedding brand that debuted its certified organic natural latex hybrid model in May 2017. Their organic mattress is made with a hybrid design featuring two inches of natural latex for pressure point relief and pocket springs that reduce motion transfer, so you don’t feel the flip-flop acrobatics of a partner while trying to catch your z’s.

Latex has some bounce to it, unlike the sinking feeling of memory foam, and instead of trapping heat as memory foam does, latex allows heat to escape. Latex is also built to last. “All-natural latex mattresses have been known to last for up to 25 years (with 15 years being quite common),” says Derek Hales, founder of NapLab. “Most mattresses may only last 8 to 10 years, so having a mattress with the incredible durability and longevity that latex provides is quite rare.”

A big selling point for me is that these mattresses are free from chemicals such as glue, adhesives, and flame retardants (conventional mattresses can have up to 10 pounds of glue in them). Along with natural latex in the comfort layer, the Happsy mattress is made of certified organic cotton and wool in the cover fabric, batting, and filling. The mattresses have been awarded certifications for using organic materials, meeting strict emissions standards, using fair-trade practices, and prioritizing overall sustainability. Despite being handcrafted in the United States with certified organic materials, this mattress is one of the most budget-friendly organic mattresses. As a bed-in-a-box, Happsy ships straight to your door, and shipping is free.

The outside covering of the Happsy mattress is certified nontoxic and organic by Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), meaning it’s free of harmful allergenic materials and odors. Next is a comfort layer of two inches of Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)-certified organic natural latex. Natural latex is a resin extracted from the sap of the rubber tree. Organic latex is expensive, but that extra cost adds value.

The support core consists of eight inches of individually pocketed coils sewn together. The coils help reduce jostling and minimize motion transfer for a more peaceful and comfortable sleep. The coil gauge determines the firmness of the mattress. Happy offers two designs: medium-firm and plush. The medium-firm design has 15-1/2-gauge coils in the center, with 14-1/2-gauge around the perimeter for edge support. The plush design has alternating 15- and 16-gauge coils. The higher the gauge, the softer the mattress.

Happsy comes with a 120-night sleep trial. You can return the mattress anytime during the trial and receive a full refund. Happsy will arrange for the mattress to be picked up from your residence at no extra charge. The bed will either be recycled or donated to charity. Happsy recommends you hold onto the wrapping and the box until you know you’ll keep the mattress to make the return trip easier for all involved.

Product Features: Why Choose an Organic Mattress?

What’s so special about an organic mattress? “Organic mattresses are naturally hypoallergenic, making them great for those with allergies or sensitive skin. They emit fewer chemicals,” says Marten Carlson, mattress expert and certified sleep science coach at Mattress Clarity. Carlson adds that organic materials are also more breathable than synthetic ones. “Even if you don’t have sensitive skin or allergies, organic mattresses offer cooling properties for all types of sleepers,” he says.

Kelly Murray, an adult sleep coach, adds that organic mattresses create a healthier sleep environment by eliminating the use of harmful chemicals. Traditional mattresses often contain harmful substances, including polyurethane, VOCs, PFAS, fiberglass, and flame retardants. “These chemicals can off-gas and be inhaled during sleep, which causes the body to become inflamed,” says Murray. “Inflammation triggers cortisol, an anti-inflammatory hormone, to be released in the body in an effort to fight the inflammation. Cortisol is also the ‘alert hormone’ that keeps us awake and is responsible for our fight-or-flight response. As a result, this anti-inflammatory response triggers night wakings, leading to a poor night’s sleep.”

The mattress is known for its chemical and organic materials, with certifications supporting their claims. Here is a breakdown of what each certification means and why it’s important:

• Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certifies that a mattress is produced with at least 95% organic latex and ensures there’s minimal environmental impact; it also ensures positive social impact, such as fair working practices and wages throughout the supply chain.
• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certifies that textiles follow organic production processes such as spinning, knitting, and weaving.
• GREENGUARD is a third-party testing program that measures chemical emissions from consumer products.
• Organic Content Standard 100 (OCS) certification demonstrates that the organic fiber in Happsy products has been independently verified. OCS only accepts material from certified organic farms and tracks the chain of custody from the material’s source to the finished product.

How I Tested the Happsy Mattress

When the Happsy mattress-in-a-box arrived at my doorstep, I was eager to see how the hybrid mattress would perform. Let me start by walking you through the unboxing process.

The mattress came compressed, plastic-wrapped, and rolled up inside a tall delivery box. The box is heavy, weighing in at 126 pounds for the king-size mattress. Be sure to plan where you are going to put the mattress before unboxing. The mattress can be hard to move, especially without handles on the sides, which makes it challenging to rotate or relocate the mattress. I recommend having a helping hand when moving the mattress to the room you plan to use, especially since it comes without handles. My workaround? Use ratchet straps to create a grip and position the mattress.

Once I got the mattress unpacked and onto my bed frame, I carefully cut away the plastic wrapping. To my delight, the mattress expanded quickly, taking shape before my eyes. The directions mentioned that the mattress would take full shape in 48 hours or less, but it only took a few minutes for me.

One thing that immediately stood out was the absence of any off-gassing smell. As someone with a strong sensitivity to chemical odors and who prioritizes a healthy sleep environment, I was pleased to find that the Happsy mattress lived up to its promise of being free from harmful chemicals and odors.

I’m a tosser-turner, so I need a mattress that can handle all the sleep positions. After a few weeks on the Happsy, I found the medium-firm feel just right for most of my sleep positions but too firm for side sleeping. I needed more softness for my hips and shoulders, so I ordered the optional mattress topper. It gave the mattress two additional inches of soft plushness, with a supportive foundation underneath.

I was concerned about ordering a mattress topper that was not attached to the mattress but was pleasantly surprised to see that it barely shifted position, and it had an added benefit—I can easily replace the mattress top (flashback to the time my foster pup had an accident on my new mattress!).

My sleep quality greatly improved during the testing period, and there was virtually no adjustment period once I added the mattress topper. In fact, I was thrilled to discover I wasn’t waking up throughout the night anymore due to overheating or feeling like I was sinking into the mattress.

Pros

• Natural latex and pocket coils deliver support and comfort
• Designed to prevent overheating
• Nontoxic: contains no flame retardants, glues, adhesives
• Solid edge support all around
• 120-night sleep trial and free shipping/returns
• 20-year limited warranty
• No off-gassing smell after setup

Cons

• Lack of handles makes moving and flipping difficult
• No split sizes for couples, a drawback for couples who want to customize firmness

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Across the different sites where this hybrid organic mattress is available, most customers have come to the same conclusion: They are happy with their Happsy! The mattress has over 2,000 customer reviews and a 4.5-star rating on the manufacturer’s website.

Verified reviewer Eliana says, “The mattress came with no smell at all, which is impressive for a mattress (and as someone who is very sensitive to mattress smells).”

Reviewer Klawdya is sensitive to chemical smells and raved, “This arrived with NO ODOR AT ALL. I’m chemically sensitive and I usually have to wash new products immediately and then put the products far from my bedroom for a few days and wash them again with a vinegar rinse and/or baking soda. This was perfectly non-toxic! I’m so happy with this company.”

Amazon reviewer Lillian Garcia says, “From the first night it was great! Now two months later, I am so happy with my mattress. It’s really comfortable and supports my body in all the right places. Great buy!”

Sorcha was searching for a nontoxic mattress when she found Happsy. “Reading about the toxic off-gassing of regular mattresses was a wake-up call. I didn’t just want a comfortable mattress; I wanted one that didn’t contain formaldehyde and other toxic materials. I’m happy I decided that I deserve a comfortable, safe mattress.”

And verified purchaser Lily says, “This mattress is supportive, but not firm, and the pillow top is very soft, but not squishy. It’s the perfect blend. To us, it’s more comfortable than a conventional mattress and box spring, minus all the smell and toxins! We were nervous about ordering, but were so pleasantly surprised when we opened it up. We also purchased the Happsy foundation, because our bed frame needed it for height, and it’s fantastic as well. Very sturdy, very well-built. Extremely happy with our Happsy!”

Happsy Organic Mattress vs. Silk & Snow Organic Mattress

Both mattresses are designed with certified organic materials, a breathable sleep surface and a pocketed coil support system. The Happsy lacks zoned support, while the Silk & Snow organic mattress does, with a combination of soft coils on the outer thirds and firmer coils on the middle thirds.

If you want a firmer mattress with stronger edge support and can stretch your budget, the Happsy may be a better fit. However, if you’re looking for a slightly more affordable option with multiple firmness levels (firm, medium-firm, plush), Silk & Snow may be a more suitable option, especially for different sleeper preferences.

Final Verdict

Much to my surprise, my allergies greatly improved while sleeping on the Happsy, which is hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant. The organic wool and latex naturally repel dust mites, mold and other allergens, making it a great option for people like me with dust mite allergies or asthma.

I am seriously impressed with this mattress’s comfort performance. While I felt incredibly supported, the mattress still provided cloud-like comfort. The biggest bonus: my neck and shoulder pain went away! If you prefer not to sink into the mattress, you’ll definitely want to consider this mattress.

Where to Buy the Happsy Mattress

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Support, meet comfort. In addition to being made of non-toxic materials, the Happsy mattress is comfy and helped our tester's pain go away.

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$899 at Amazon

You can purchase a Happsy organic hybrid mattress directly from the company’s website, where they offer free shipping and returns, along with a 120-night risk-free trial. The Happsy mattress starts at $900 and is also available on Amazon. Happsy offers discounts occasionally, so be sure to check for promotions.

FAQ

Is Happsy good for side sleepers?

Latex hybrids are a smart choice for side sleepers because the latex can contour to shoulders and support some weight. The latex-coil combination is also a smart choice for anyone who gets too hot while sleeping. The latex, wool, and cotton are all naturally breathable, and the coil layers also dissipate heat.

Side sleepers generally gravitate toward softer mattresses, which provide deep pressure relief for hips and shoulders. I found the medium-firm mattress provided excellent support and pressure release for my back and stomach sleeping positions, but I found it too firm for side sleeping. I needed a bit of extra cushioning that the mattress topper addition provided. The pocket coils enhance airflow and support for side sleepers.

An additional two-inch latex layer with the optional topper will give you a more plush feel and more contouring for your shoulders and hips if you need it. “A medium-soft to medium-firm mattress is usually best for side sleepers, says Jill Zwarenteyn, certified sleep science coach at Sleep Advisor. “You want something that cushions your hips and shoulders while still supporting your spine. Hybrid mattresses tend to work well since they contour to your body.”

Nichole Mondschein, sleep product expert at Sleepopolis, adds, “Hybrid mattresses are a great option because they have structured support, combined with latex for comfortable cushioning on the hips and shoulders.”

Where is the Happsy mattress manufactured?

According to the manufacturer’s website, Happsy mattresses are manufactured and packaged in their own certified organic factory in the USA, which is used exclusively for organic mattress production, so there is no chance of contamination.

Why You Should Trust Us

Despite being someone whose favorite pastimes include naps, I am a terrible sleeper. Over the years, I have tested mattresses with a mission to get a better night’s sleep. I’ve evaluated this mattress for feel, firmness, pressure relief, bounce and motion isolation. The mattress I tested is the medium-firm model with an optional topper, but it is also available in a plush design.

I also enlisted the expertise of Nichole Mondshein, sleep product expert at Sleepopolis; Marten Carlson, mattress expert and certified sleep science coach at Mattress Clarity; Kelly Murray, adult sleep coach; and Jill Zwarensteyn, certified sleep science coach at Sleep Advisor. I consulted with Derek Hales, founder and CEO at NapLab. In the past 10 years, he has personally tested 360+ different mattresses.

At Family Handyman, we’re familiar with mattress reviews. We’ve tested everything from the affordable DreamCloud Mattress to the cooling Sealy Cocoon Chill and the Classic Saatva mattresses. We add to our reviews often, assessing whether a new sleep product on the market is worth your time.

The post Happsy Mattress Review: This Organic Mattress Is a Must for Allergy Sufferers appeared first on Family Handyman.

You don’t need to install another plumbing appliance in your bathroom to reap the benefits of a Tushy bidet. Tushy bidet attachments like the Oasis and Wave are simple DIY projects accomplished in under an hour. Here are all the deets about the latest Tushy bidet.

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Product Launch

Tushy Wave Non-Electric Bidet

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What is the Tushy Wave?

The Tushy Classic launched the brand into fame, becoming one of the most popular bidet options online. It’s made of tough, durable acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic and accented with stylish hardware in various colors. Users can choose the water stream strength from light to strong pressure, and the precision angle adjuster makes cleaning quick and efficient.

The all-new Tushy Wave, like the Oasis, is an easy-clean bidet toilet seat. Unlike the prior classic model—which is an attachment that fits under your existing toilet seat—the new models replace your toilet seat altogether. The Wave doesn’t have an extended console like previous Tushy bidet models, so it can fit in even the tiniest of apartment bathrooms. No more sacrificing spa-like luxuries for apartment living.

With the press of a quick-release button, the seat and lid slide off from the base plate for an extra deep clean. The sleek, gapless seat is also equipped with a soft-close lid and has easy-turn knobs to control water pressure at the front and rear of the seat. The whole thing is designed to fit your standard toilet, and you can select an elongated or round seat based on your toilet bowl shape.

Our Favorite Tushy Bidets

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Product Launch

Tushy Wave Non-Electric Bidet

The clean and modern non-electric bidet seat that replaces your existing toilet seat. Its control knobs are built into the seat, so the device can fit on virtually any toilet or in any bathroom.

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Product Launch

Tushy Oasis Warm Water Non-Electric Bidet

The warm-water, non-electric bidet seat packs the features of the Wave plus a warm water option for a cozy clean on the coldest mornings. Like the Wave, it has an easy-clean seat.

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Tushy Classic 3.0 Bidet Attachment

Tushy’s best-selling bidet attachment is affordable and comes in various color/hardware combinations. It’s super easy to install and makes a great gift.

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Where to Buy the Tushy Wave

You can shop the Tushy Wave at Tushy for $189. Orders should ship out almost immediately, so you’ll have your new throne in time for the holiday season.

The post Tushy Just Dropped a New Bidet, and It’s the Bathroom Upgrade You’ve Been Waiting For appeared first on Family Handyman.

What’s the general vibe of the homes featured in Meyers’ movies? They’re timeless and, more often than not, feature neutral color palettes and down-home touches. Likewise, the cottagecore trend promotes a simple, vintage design and accents such as floral patterns and plaids. So, soft, floral wallpaper is an obvious choice when picking the best wallpaper for these style trends.

Here’s what you need to know about Chasing Paper’s wallpaper.

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Product Launch

Chasing Paper Cottage Edit Wallpaper

A line of printed-to-order wallpapers with a Nancy Meyers touch

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What is Chasing Paper wallpaper?

Chasing Paper was started in 2012 by third-generation printers who sought to create high-quality wall coverings. Whether designing your forever home or sprucing up an apartment, Chasing Paper has peel-and-stick (removable) and traditional wallpaper options. Every order is printed to order, and the brand works with artists to create unique patterns you can’t find anywhere else. Plus, all of the wallpaper is made using non-toxic, water-based ink. The brand’s printed-to-order model allows them to be more flexible and sustainable.

The ‘Cottage Edit’ wallpaper line includes prints with neutral and muted hues, floral patterns, stripes and plaids. The prints have a serene yet rustic charm suggestive of a countryside setting. Chasing Paper has wallpapers for every room. However, the cottage core-inspired line is ideal for bedrooms, powder rooms or living rooms if you want to achieve a grand millennial or traditional design style that leans toward homey and casual.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper is easy to apply and remove, so you can jump on the cottagecore bandwagon without major commitment. You can also opt for traditional wallpaper if you prefer it to peel-and-stick wallpaper. With whimsical, versatile designs, the Chasing Paper ‘Cottage Edit’ wallpapers allow you to create a cozy, timeless sanctuary with the timeless allure of cottage living.

Where to Buy the Cottagecore Wallpaper

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Product Launch

Chasing Paper Cottage Edit Wallpaper

A line of artist-designed wallpapers with peel-and-stick options

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You can shop the ‘Cottage Edit’ at Chasing Paper. Peel-and-stick rolls start at $45, but pricing will ultimately depend on the size of the space you plan to cover.

The post Chasing Paper’s New Cottage Edit Has Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Prints of Our Dreams appeared first on Family Handyman.

Most recently, L.L. Bean teamed up with singer-songwriter Noah Kahan on a capsule collection that includes hats, jackets and the beloved Bean Boots. The pieces were released on October 22, 2024. Ready to shop the collection before it sells out? Check it out below:

The Northern Altitude Collection

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Mountain Classic Five-Panel Hat

This hat is made of water- and wind-resistant material (it is also UPF 50+ rated) and features a woven patch touting the collection's name.

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Signature 1933 Chamois Cloth Shirt

Perfect for fall, this soft flannel shirt buttons down the front and has a slim fit throughout.

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan L.L. Beanie

The all-black L.L. Beanie can be adjusted, thanks to the rolled cuff, and is made from recycled polyester.

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L.L.Bean & Noah Kahan Hoodie Sweatshirt

Grab this cozy hoodie with the embroidered Noah Kahan and L.L. Bean logo on the front (we give bonus points for the kangaroo pouch).

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Bean Boots

Handmade in Maine, these Bean Boots are built to last, thanks to the rubber outsole and waxed canvas upper.

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Boat and Tote Zip Pouch

This zip pouch fits inside a larger bag (ahem, the Boat and Tote bag), and comes emblazoned with the Noah Kahan patch.

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Mountain Classic Anorak

Keep the rain out with this water resistant jacket, which comes in both men's and women's sizes.

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The post The Noah Kahan x L.L. Bean ‘Northern Altitude Collection’ is a Love Letter to New England appeared first on Family Handyman.

Is it truly worth the hype? I tested the Ninesky Dehumidifier in my house for a month in the swampy North Carolina summer to see how it compares to the competition. I’ve tested and used more than a dozen humidity-controlling devices, so I’ll be able to tell you how it compares and whether you should spend your money on it.

What is the Ninesky Dehumidifier?

The Ninesky Dehumidifier is made by Ninesky Goods, a company that claims to have more than 50 years of experience dehumidifier industry. More on that in a second.

There are three models: a 30-ounce, an 85-ounce and an 88-ounce dehumidifier. We’ll be looking at the 85-ounce version, which comes with “ultra-quiet” technology, LED mood lighting, an auto shut-off feature and two fan speed modes.

I’ll be honest: This is not a legitimate company. For one, there’s no proof of them being in business for 50 years anywhere online—no news articles, no Wikipedia page and no links other than to commerce sites like Amazon. Their website has no “About Us” or “History” page, and their customer testimonials use pictures that are clearly created by artificial intelligence (AI) and can be easily found on other sites that use the same template as NineSky’s.

Their website also mentions their “durable linens,” but they don’t sell anything with linens under the NineSky brand name.

Furthermore, the company is inconsistent in its marketing. On the website and Amazon headline, the dehumidifier is advertised as having an 85-ounce water tank, yet the box and Amazon product specs say it has a 95-ounce tank. This type of discrepancy can be found with their other models, too. It’s possible they updated the models and forgot to change some of the specs, but as you’ll see in a bit, there’s no clear way of knowing which number is correct.

That said, Amazon is filled with these types of unknown brands, and products from such brands often perform well. So, we thought it was still worth reviewing–at the very least, to make sure our readers know that they’re buying from a questionable brand should they choose to go with the NineSky dehumidifier.

Psst: Our Frigidaire Dehumidifier review is based on a product from a company with a proven track record.

Ninesky Dehumidifier Features

85-ounce water tank

Alright, let’s talk about the Ninesky Dehumidifier’s water tank capacity. The company claims it can remove excess moisture from spaces up to 800 square feet and has an 85-ounce water tank, making it a good choice for small aartments or RVs.

As I stated above, the box and other parts of Amazon say the water tank is 95 ounces. So, which is it?

I’m not sure. There are no markings on the water tank. I conducted an unofficial test by emptying the tank into a bowl set on a scale to see what it would weigh. Note: One fluid ounce is roughly one ounce in weight, but that number can change based on many factors, so this is a very, very unscientific test. I also don’t have a measuring cup or bowl that goes up to 85 or 95 ounces, so this is the best I could do.

Either way, I got nowhere near 85 or 95 ounces on the scale. The closest I got was around 65-75 ounces, but again, that shouldn’t be taken as a hard-and-true fact.

Don’t get me wrong. This thing works, and there’s a clear difference in the air when I have it on compared to when it’s off. I just question the accuracy of this company’s claims.

Need to rid your room of dust and other airborne particles? We recommend checking out the NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier or Blueair Air Purifier.

Quiet Operation

The Ninesky Dehumidifier advertises itself as “ultra-quiet,” yet I’m typing this review with it in the same room as the machine, and I can definitely hear it. It’s not loud, but it kind of sounds like a laptop or gaming console fan that’s been running for a while. I’ve definitely used quieter dehumidifiers.

There is a night mode that drops the fan speed to a lower setting that’s supposed to be quieter, though I don’t notice a difference.

Auto Shut-off

The Ninesky Dehumidifier’s auto shut-off function works as advertised. The company says it removes up to 34 ounces of water per day, and I found it took about a day and a half to two days (depending on the humidity) for it to get full. There are some dehumidifiers out there that fail to shut off when full, which results in spills, but that’s not an issue here. I would’ve liked to see a drainage hose option for people who want to run it continuously, but on the bright side, it’s easy to remove the tank and empty it when needed.

If you need a continuously running dehumidifier but don’t have the budget for one, check out our guide to creating a DIY self-draining dehumidifier.

LED Mood Lighting

Here’s another honest take: I don’t like LED mood lighting on any dehumidifier, so I’m not going to knock the Ninesky Dehumidifier too much for having it. I personally don’t see the point of having it, as they’re never bright enough to really make a difference.

If that is your cup of tea, you’ll have seven colors to choose from that can rotate or be set to one color. The dehumidifier’s black shell helps the colors pop more than white dehumidifiers.

How We Tested It

As Family Handyman‘s resident dehumidifier tester and expert, I’ve used more than a dozen small, rechargeable and crawl space dehumidifiers to combat the humid North Carolina weather.

I placed the Ninesky Dehumidifier in my office since that room gets humid very quickly compared to other parts of the house. I took note of how it sounded, how quickly it drew water from the air, the ease of use and whether any issues came up during my testing.

Pros

• Affordable
• Compact
• Lightweight
• Two-speed operation
• LED mood lighting
• Easy-to-remove water tank

Cons

• Not as quiet as advertised
• Tank capacity is unclear

FAQ

Why is the power light blinking on my Ninesky dehumidifier?

The power light on your Ninesky dehumidifier could be due to a power or fan issue. If your power is fine, the fan might require maintenance or be close to failure.

Should I keep my Ninesky dehumidifier on all night?

Yes, if you live in a particularly humid area, you can keep your Ninesky dehumidifier all night. I didn’t think it was the quietest dehumidifier, though it should be fine if placed on the opposite side of a bedroom.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

As of this writing, the Ninesky Dehumidifier with an 85-ounce water tank has an average rating of 4.3 on Amazon, with almost 1,100 of the 1,468 reviews being five-star ratings.

“This has been on all day in my room and I am very happy with what I see,” writes five-star Amazon reviewer Krista. “I love that it’s as easy as just plugging in and seeing it do its work. I’m very happy with this for the price that I paid.”

Other reviewers were less than impressed with its functionality. “It will not even dent the humidity of a room,” writes one-star Amazon reviewer Rando. “I bought it hoping it would at least moderate the humidity in a 200 sq. ft. bedroom, and it has practically no effect. Don’t waste your time and money, buy something bigger and more powerful that will actually do the job.”

Ninesky Dehumidifier vs GE Dehumidifier

The DE Dehumidifier costs about four times as much as the Ninesky Dehumidifier, so is it worth the money? The answer, as always, is it depends. If you’re in a larger living space or need a basement dehumidifier, opt for the GE since it’s rated for up to 4,500 square feet and has a 50-pint container.

The GE Dehumidifier also has a continuous drain option. While it’s not as lightweight as the Ninesky, it has wheels so you can roll it from room to room. The GE also has an adjustable fan that sets itself based on the room’s humidity, whereas the Ninesky runs at the same speed when in day or night mode.

The GE Dehumidifier is Energy Star-certified, whereas Ninesky just says it’s energy-efficient (but doesn’t have specific evidence to back it up).

The Midea Dehumidifier offers many of the same features as the GE Dehumidifier at a slightly lower price.

Final Verdict

Is the Ninesky Dehumidifier the best option out there? No. It works just like any other dehumidifier of its size, with the exception of it being a bit louder than similar models. It’s made my office more comfortable and comes at.a good price. If you don’t need the best-of-the-best, this might be a decent option as long as you’re OK with a little noise.

Where to Buy the Ninesky Dehumidifier

The Ninesky Dehumidifier is only available on Amazon. The list price is around $90, though it was less than $60 at the time of this writing.

The post Ninesky Dehumidifier Review: Here’s What We REALLY Think appeared first on Family Handyman.

After reading countless consumer reviews raving about Birch mattresses, we knew we had to do some testing of our own. So, we sent the Birch Natural Mattress to Richard Glenn, who tested the mattress every night for a month. Here are his honest, unfiltered thoughts about the mattress.

FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

Birch Natural Mattress

Made with quality materials and built to last, this hybrid mattress is a great nontoxic option.

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What is the Birch Natural Mattress?

The Birch Natural Mattress is a hybrid mattress composed of natural and organic materials. Its hybrid design means it has plush layers of wool, cotton and latex for comfort and supportive coils underneath. A hybrid mattress is great for various sleepers and sleeping positions—including side sleepers—because it combines the best of a soft and firm mattress. This hybrid construction also achieves a medium-firm feel for people who like a middle-of-the-road mattress in terms of firmness.

Birch mattresses pass rigorous tests to achieve the highest standards for natural and organic products. The Birch Natural Mattress is Greenguard Gold, GOTS, Eco-Institute and Fair Trade Certified. Birch’s partners also adhere to strict ethical practices and responsibly source all organic and natural components.

Birch Natural Mattress Product Features

Cooling Layers

The six-layer mattress is topped with a layer of breathable, organic cotton, which wicks moisture and promotes airflow. Underneath the cotton lie absorbent organic wool and breathable latex, further promoting a cool night’s sleep.

Pressure Relief

With a medium-firm feel, thanks to its supportive bottom coils and layers of natural, breathable materials, this is an optimal mattress for side, back and stomach sleepers. The mattress is made with premium hypoallergenic natural materials, like sap from rubber trees, to create the right pressure relief and contour for your body.

Supportive Feel

The base of the Birch Natural Mattress has up to 1,000 individually wrapped coils. These coils provide reinforced support under your hips and cradle your body while helping to align your spine. The mattress is also reinforced lengthwise to provide edge support.

Hassle-Free Setup

When you order a Birch mattress, the delivery team will unpack your new bed and set it up in your desired location. They’ll also remove your old mattress and dispose of the packaging. This way, you don’t have to worry about hauling in a heavy mattress on your own or getting rid of your old one ahead of delivery.

How We Tested It

Here are our honest thoughts after a full month of sleep testing on the Birch Natural Mattress.

Delivery and Setup

Our product tester, Richard Glenn, did not opt for the in-home delivery and setup service. Instead, he flipped the boxed mattress end over end up a flight of stairs to his bedroom. From there, he could unbox it and cut away the plastic. “It was very securely wrapped. I used small scissors to cut away the outer plastic,” Richard says. “It was a little tough to get through, but I didn’t want to use a box cutter for fear of damaging the mattress.”

The mattress took a full 48 hours to expand and feel firm enough to sleep on, which is something you may want to consider if you have your current bed removed for an upgrade to the Birch Natural Mattress. “I slept on it before it was fully inflated, and it seemed squishy,” Richard says. “24 hours later, it came to its full firmness and felt much more supportive.”

The mattress took about three hours to move from box to bed, unbox and set up. Two pillows were also included in the box. Impressively, there was no chemical smell or off-gassing upon opening.

One thing Richard did note about delivery was that the hand holes in the box arrived damaged, making the box challenging to lift. “That’s why I had to flip it up the stairs,” Richard explains. “I recommend having a second person help you lift the box if you opt out of the in-home service. The brand could stand to reinforce the handholds in the box.”

Sleep Experience

On his old memory foam mattress, Richard regularly woke up with hip pain. However, after sleeping on the new Birch Natural Mattress, Richard hasn’t been bothered by joint pain like he was previously. “It’s not a cure-all, but it’s good enough that I don’t even think about waking up achy,” he says. “When I do sleep on my back, I don’t have any lower back pain because of the support from the mattress.”

When it came time to test the mattress’s cooling features, Richard says it stayed consistently cool and did not reflect heat to his body like his old Tempur-Pedic mattress.

“The medium firmness is a great balance between support and comfort,” Richard says. “Interestingly, the mattress feels much softer when sitting upright, but laying down with your body weight distributed, it feels much firmer. I’d recommend the Birch Natural Mattress to anyone with joint pain. It has the support of a spring bed without sacrificing comfort,” Richard says. “If you’ve been sleeping on memory foam and wake up sweaty, this mattress (made without memory foam) is worth trying.”

Looking for alternatives? We tested nine other options to find the best mattress in a box.

Pros

• Well-built; we expect it to last for many years after testing
• Hybrid design with coils and comfort layers (no memory foam)
• Good for hot sleepers and those with joint pain
• Ideal for back, stomach and side sleepers
• Hassle-free delivery
• Non-toxic, organic and natural materials
• Cooling properties

Cons

• Bottom edge lacks support
• Pillows are thin and flimsy
• Contains latex, so it is not suitable for those with latex allergies

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

The Birch Natural Mattress has garnered more than 5,000 reviews on the Birch site and a 4.5-star rating. Buyers love the medium-feel firmness and the overall quality of the mattress. Complaints often have to do with the quality of pillows, wait time for inflation and customer service. A few reviewers note that the mattress seems to run on the smaller side compared to standard-size mattresses.

Comparison of Birch Natural Mattresses

Birch sells two Natural Mattresses, the Birch Natural Mattress and the Birch Luxe Natural Mattress. The first is the brand’s most popular breathable mattress, and the second is an upgraded version. The Luxe Natural Mattress has extra comfort and cradling layers but offers the same medium-firm feel.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a non-toxic mattress made with certified organic materials, then the Birch Natural Mattress is hard to beat. Not only is the quality, handmade construction ethically and sustainably produced, but the hybrid design of the mattress is suitable for most types of sleepers. Its medium-firm feel is a great middle-ground for those seeking comfort and support. We also appreciate that the Birch Natural Mattress is made without memory foam if you’re looking for an alternative to the standard memory foam boxed mattress.

Where to Buy the Birch Natural Mattress

FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

Birch Natural Mattress

This hybrid mattress is ideal for many types of sleepers. Our tester found it can also help banish pain!

Shop at Helix Sleep

Shop at Birch by Helix

You can shop the Birch Natural Mattress starting at $1,374, but be sure to look for seasonal sales to score a competitive discount. You can also shop the mattress directly from Helix Sleep.

FAQ

Does a birch mattress have fiberglass?

No. Birch mattresses are made without the use of fiberglass.

Who is the parent company of Birch mattress

Helix Sleep, one of the most awarded mattress brands on the internet, launched Birch by Helix, a line of eco-friendly mattresses just a few years ago.

Do Birch mattresses have springs?

Yes. They have individually wrapped coils that provide support and help reduce motion transfer.

Why You Should Trust Us

We know how difficult it can be to shop for beds online without sleeping on them first. That’s why we tested the Birch Natural Mattress every night for a month. Our product tester, Richard Glenn, suffers from hip and joint pain; he’s also a hot sleeper who lives in Southern California. That’s to say, he was the perfect candidate to test the Birch mattress’s pressure-relieving and cooling features. From delivery and setup to sleep, Richard put the Birch mattress through a series of rigorous tests to tell you what the mattress is really like in person.

The post Birch Natural Mattress Review: We Tried It for a Month, and Here’s What Happened appeared first on Family Handyman.

The Garrett metal detector is one of 11 models that our expert product testers closely inspected. They paid careful attention to details including how easy it was to assemble, its ergonomics and its overall performance. They also brought it to a local beach and were impressed by its overall intuitiveness and ergonomics. Here’s everything you need to know about the Garrett metal detector.

What is the Garrett Metal Detector?

The Garrett Ace 300 is a multi-purpose metal detector.  This model features a 7-by-10-inch submersible coil and digital interface. It runs on four AA batteries, has an adjustable length of 42 to 51 inches and weighs less than three pounds. A pair of Garrett ClearSound Easy Stow Headphones with volume control, an ACE Environmental Cover-Up and a search coil cover are included with your purchase.

The Garrett metal detector has five search presets to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. It also features adjustable frequencies which eliminate or minimize interference caused by electrical sources or from other metal detectors. Moreover, the search coil is submersible so you can hunt for treasure on the beach or at the lake.

It also features electronic pinpointing which our testers found particularly helpful since it precisely locates a detected target’s position.

Priced at $270, the Garrett metal detector is a mid-priced model that is easy to use and suitable for beginners.

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We Tried It

Garrett Ace 300 Metal Detector

The Garrett metal detector features five search modes and adjustable frequencies so you can easily separate trash from treasure.

$269.99 at Amazon

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Garrett Metal Detector Features

Waterproof

The Garrett metal detector is designed to detect objects underwater.

Customizable Discrimination Settings

This metal detector has five search modes, making it easy to tell trash from treasure. These presets include:

• Zero-disc mode detects every kind of metal. This mode is ideal for times when you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for. It’s also recommended when a target signal is inconsistent. 
• Jewelry mode is designed to find items such as rings, bracelets, watches and necklaces. This mode will ignore most iron trash. 
• Relics mode looks for lead, brass and bronze. 
• Coins mode picks up U.S. and similar coins. While this mode is designed to eliminate common trash items such as iron, foil, and pulltabs, the brand cautions that medium-sized jewelry may be missed with this discrimination pattern. According to the manual, some digging of junk targets is to be expected, such as aluminum cans.
• Custom mode allows you to program and save your preferred settings. The factory preset for the custom mode is the same as the coins mode. The manual advises beginning with this discrimination pattern and then using the “DISCRIM” and Accept/Reject controls to customize the mode.

Electronic Pinpointing

This non-motion, all-metal mode function is used to precisely locate a detected target’s position.

Three Volume Settings

This Garrett metal detector produces three distinct tones based on a target’s metal type and conductivity.
• High-conductivity targets (Digital ID > 75) produce a unique bell tone signal.
• Medium to low conductivity targets (Digital ID of 33–75) produce a medium-pitched signal.
• Ferrous targets, which are metals that contain iron as their main component, (Digital ID produce a low-pitch
signal.

How We Tested It

Product testers Annamarie Higley and Sydney Manning set out to see what the Garrett metal detector was really capable of. They began by assembling the unit, a process which got off to a bumpy start since they were unable to get the shaft to click into place. After grappling with it for some time, they called for reinforcements. Associate product tester Dylan Fischer was able to get the pole to extend so that Higley and Manning could continue with their testing. They also had trouble adjusting the coil angle.

Once the unit was fully assembled, our testers got to work. They especially liked how easy it was to carry. “The strap is heavy-duty and able to lay flush with Annamarie’s arm,” says Manning. “The foam grip on the handle is luxe and comfortable. It feels lightweight enough so as not to cause fatigue, even after a while.”

After the Garrett metal detector was securely on Higley’s arm, it was time to see what it could do. Our testers began by performing an air test. Higley explains that this is a standard basic functionality test that many companies recommend prior to first use.

To perform this test, our team placed the Garrett metal detector on non-metal surface outside and proceeded to wave a selection of metal items in front of the coils. These items included a pair of 10k gold earrings, a copper pipe, aluminum foil, pull tabs, bottle caps, a screw and a nail. It was able to detect all of our items from less than a foot away. However, it was only able to detect gold from three inches away.

During testing, our team liked the intuitive tones which signal what the target likely is. “There were a few different beeps on this one, which was nice when trying to identify the target without digging it up,” says Higley. However, our testers noted that it became confused by the items they believed to be mixed metals (caps, nail and screw).

“There were a lot of different beeps going off at once with this. It was kind of erratic,” she adds. “We did adjust the sensitivity down, but the same thing happened. We didn’t, however, adjust the frequency setting, which may be where the problem was.”

During testing, Higley and Manning used the zero discrimination and jewelry modes. They were pleased to discover that the Garrett metal detector was able to detect the earrings as well as other non-ferrous items in jewelry mode. Conversely, they were disappointed when it didn’t 100% discriminate against the screw and nail like it should have in jewelry mode.

Another thing to consider is the fact that the unit’s target IDs didn’t always align with the key. “Their key says foil should have a target ID in the 30s, but ours read in the 70s,” explains Higley.

In spite of the rocky assembly process and testing hiccups they encountered, our testers agree that the Garrett metal detector is a great buy. “We liked this one a lot. It was intuitive and the screen was fairly accurate and easy to follow,” raves Higley.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Intuitive tones which signal what the target likely is
• Detected all of our test items
• Depth reader was mostly accurate
• Waterproof
• Screen was easy to read in the sunlight
• Heavy-duty strap and comfortable foam grip
• Lightweight

Cons

• Could only detect gold within a few inches of the coils
• It became confused by mixed metals
• Target IDs didn’t always align with the key

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, we know how important it is to find quality products that make your life easier and won’t leave you with a bad case of buyer’s remorse. Of course our goal is to help you with everything you should know about your home, but we enjoy helping you enjoy your hobbies, too. Whether you’re into metalworking, woodworking or treasure hunting, we’re here to help. Our editors and testers have years of experience testing products and we will only recommend a product if we believe it will enhance your own experience as it did ours.

In order to help you make an informed buying decision, our product testing experts on the product testing team spent approximately 80 hours in our lab getting up close and personal with 11 metal detectors. Several of those hours were spent actively testing the Garrett metal detector. We performed 13 tests on each metal detector and collected roughly 600 data points overall.

FAQ

What is the best Garrett metal detector for beginners?

The brand offers a beginner’s special package on their website. This package includes the Garrett Ace 200 metal detector. The Ace 200 costs $200 and has a smaller coil and only three search modes.

How deep can a Garrett metal detector go?

Typically, metal detectors are capable of uncovering objects buried between 10 to 16 inches deep, according to the brand’s website.

Will a Garrett metal detector find gold?

Yes, the Garrett metal detector will find gold. That said, our testers found that it was only able to detect gold within a few inches of the coils.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Over 2,400 Amazon users gave the Garrett metal detector a five-star rating for its ease-of-use, light weight and value.

Five-star reviewer Mike in VB calls this a good sporting use metal detector. “For the money, this is good intermediate sporting use metal detector. It works fine detecting iron and aluminum,” he writes. He ends his review by offering a pro tip for prospective buyers: “Definitely download and read the complete manual to properly setup the unit for detecting the types of things you are interested in.”

Nicholas Beekman, another satisfied Amazon user, was thrilled by how well the Garrett metal detector works. “My wife’s wedding ring was lost in the garden for three months. After using two cheaper metal detectors with no luck, I purchased this model and found the ring in less than 5 minutes,” he raves.

Experienced treasure hunter Just Jeff upgraded to the Garrett metal detector and he’s happy he did. “I upgraded to the Garret 300 and found the transition to be smooth. It pulls a little downward on the wrist but other than that, it’s balanced and lightweight with a nice LED display with numerical reference for the target,” he writes. Jeff goes on to add that while there is a learning curve, the Garrett metal detector is a great choice for all skill levels.

“The volume is loud and is not able to be adjusted. Th only way to adjust volume is when using the wired headphones that came with the detector. Until you ‘learn’ the tones and numbers being displayed, dig everything. You’ll find more trash than treasure but that’s not the detector’s fault,” he explains.

“There are several modes for distinguishing types of targets you’re looking for,” his review continues. “The unit is easy to operate; turn it on and go! It’s great for beginners and experienced users without investing large amounts of money. Batteries come with it and after 18 to 20 hours, the indicator is still reading ‘full.’ You won’t be disappointed in this detector. It’s easy to assemble and with moderate practice you’ll be retrieving treasure in no time.”

Garrett Metal Detector vs. Nokta Metal Detector

Our experts on the product testing team tested 11 metal detectors. They recommend both the Garrett Ace 300 and the Nokta Legend. Though they’re both adept at finding targets, the Nokta metal detector costs about $300 more than the Garrett metal detector. Before you decide which model to invest in, here’s how they differ.

Both metal detectors are lightweight and fairly easy to use. They both have customizable discrimination settings and multiple frequencies. That said, the Nokta metal detector has more bells and whistles than the Garrett metal detector. For starters, the Nokta has four customizable discrimination settings in addition to four terrain settings. It’s also rechargeable, fully submersible and equipped with extras like Bluetooth capabilities, vibration alerts and multiple user profiles.

When it comes to performance, both metal detectors are suitable for all skill levels and were able to detect gold. The Nokta was able to detect gold from about eight inches away while the Garrett was able to detect it from three inches away.

During testing, our team found that the Nokta’s screen was hard to read in the sunlight thanks to its all-black buttons. They also found it to be much quieter than other models. The Garrett metal detector, on the other hand, was easy to read and our testers liked the different tones. Moreover, the Garrett metal detector includes headphones, an environmental cover and a search coil cover. The Nokta does not include any accessories.

Overall, the Garrett metal detector is the better value, especially for beginners.

Final Verdict

If you’re in the market for a metal detector, then this Garrett metal detector is an excellent choice. This lightweight model is comfortable to hold and easy to use, making it idea for beginners and seasoned treasure hunters alike. It also includes handy accessories like headphones, an environmental cover and coil cover which makes it an excellent value.

Where to Buy the Garrett Metal Detector

The Garrett metal detector costs $269.99 and is available at a variety of retailers. Purchase yours on Amazon, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, and Scheel’s.

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We Tried It

Garrett Ace 300 Metal Detector

The Garrett metal detector is a mid-priced, beginner-friendly unit. Five search modes make it easy to separate trash from treasure.

$269.99 at Amazon

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The post The Garrett Metal Detector is the Perfect Entry-Level Model, According to Our Product Testers appeared first on Family Handyman.

Our expert product testers put several metal detectors to the test including the Nokta metal detector. They paid careful attention to details including how easy it was to assemble, its ergonomics and its overall performance. They even brought it to a local beach and were impressed to discover that this model was able to detect gold from farther away than most of its competitors. Here’s everything you need to know about the Nokta metal detector.

What is the Nokta Metal Detector?

The Nokta metal detector is a multi-purpose metal detector.  It features a 12-inch waterproof coil, digital display and rechargeable battery. It weighs just 3.05 pounds, making it extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.

This metal detector is loaded with useful features including a built-in flashlight, bluetooth capabilities, vibration feedback for underwater use and hearing impaired users, multi IQ frequency and personalized settings for up to four users. Additionally, it has multiple terrain-based presets and completely customizable discrimination patterns.

Priced at $595, the Nokta metal detector is on the higher end. But given its features and overall ease of use, our product testers agree that it’s worth the splurge.

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we tried it

Nokta Legend Metal Detector

A waterproof coil, digital display and abundance of features make this metal detector one of our top picks.

$595 at Amazon

Shop on Kellyco Metal Detectors

Nokta Metal Detector Features

Waterproof

The Nokta metal detector is fully submersible up to five meters (16.4 feet). It vibrates when it detects something underwater.

Customizable Discrimination Settings

Choose from All Metal, Ferrous Off, Ground Effect Off and Custom (Notch Discrimination) settings. There are also four terrain-based presets including park, beach, field and gold field.

Vibration

The unit vibrates when an object is detected. This is ideal for underwater use and individuals with hearing impairment.

Custom User Profiles

Create up to four user profiles on the machine for personalized settings and functionality.

Backlit LCD & Built-in LED Flashlight

The backlit digital display and built-in flashlight allow you to use the Nokta metal detector day or night.

How We Tested It

Product testers Annamarie Higley and Sydney Manning led the charge and set out to see what the Nokta metal detector was really capable of. They began by assembling the unit, a process they described as easy and simple since there were only a couple parts to put together. Manning only had to reference the manual once or twice.

After it was fully assembled, our testers were impressed by the overall quality of the Nokta metal detector. They also appreciated how easy it was to carry.

“The shape of the handle is ergonomic, plus it has a rubber grip that wraps all the way around the handle,” explains Manning. “The tough carbon fiber telescoping shaft is lightweight and it doesn’t feel heavy in use.” They did point out, however, that while the cuff fit snugly on Annamarie’s arm, the Velcro itself is quite thin. Additionally, our testers felt that the coil head was floppier than others they tested. Fortunately, neither of these things seemed to affect the Nokta’s performance.

Once the Nokta metal detector was securely on Annamarie’s arm, it was time to see what it could do. Our testers began by performing an air test. This is a standard basic functionality test that many companies recommend prior to first use. To perform this test, our team placed the Nokta metal detector on non-metal surface outside and proceeded to wave a selection of metal items in front of the coils. These items included a pair of 10k gold earrings, a copper pipe, aluminum foil, pull tabs, bottle caps, a screw and a nail. It was able to detect all of our items from a foot away or less. It detected gold from about 8 inches away.

Our testers pointed out that the machine’s noises change and increase in volume as the target nears. However, they found the machine to be very quiet overall and adjusted the volume accordingly. “Annamarie turned up the volume to max, which helped,” explains Manning. “But because the volume of the ping depends on the depth of the item, some pings were a little quiet for our liking.” Additionally, they heard a constant humming or chatting noise in the gold mode, even as they adjusted the frequency.

During testing, Higley’s only complaint was that the buttons, which are are simply raised and all black, were hard to see. “Although the black buttons are a little hard to see with sunglasses on or in the shade, the screen—with all its super-helpful information—fortunately, has high visibility,” she says.

Overall, our testers agree that the Nokta metal detector is a worthy splurge. “The user-friendly FerroCheck bar, which identifies whether a target is ferrous, never once failed us,” raves Higley.

Pros

• Good at detecting gold
• User-friendly
• Ergonomic handle
• Vibration mode
• Bluetooth capabilities
• Multiple terrain-based presets
• Rechargeable
• Auto-adjusts frequencies

Cons

• Does not include any accessories
• Quieter than other models
• All-black buttons can be hard to see

Why You Should Trust Us

At Family Handyman, we know how important it is to find quality products that make your life easier and won’t leave you with a bad case of buyer’s remorse. Of course our goal is to help you with everything you should know about your home, but we enjoy helping you enjoy your hobbies, too. Whether you’re into metalworking, woodworking or treasure hunting, we’re here to help. Our editors and testers have years of experience testing products and we will only recommend a product if we believe it’ll enhance your own experience as it did ours.

In order to help you make an informed buying decision, our product testing experts on the product testing team spent approximately 80 hours in our lab getting up close and personal with 11 metal detectors. Several of those hours were spent actively testing the Nokta metal detector. We performed 13 tests on each metal detector and collected roughly 600 data points overall.

FAQ

Is Nokta Legend a good metal detector?

Yes! In fact, the makers are so confident in their products that they offer a three-year warranty. Moreover, every part of the Nokta metal detector can be repaired. If something breaks, you won’t have to replace the whole thing.

What is the maximum depth of the Nokta legend?

The Nokta Legend is fully submersible up to five meters, or 16.4 feet.

Where is the Nokta legend made?

Nokta Detectors is headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Though this Nokta metal detector doesn’t have a ton of reviews, the ones that are there are overwhelmingly positive.

Verified Amazon user P-Town insists that the Nokta metal detector is great for beginners. They write, “If you’re just starting out, you are starting off with a very good detector. This is perfect for your entire family to use because it’s so easy to set and go. Found a few items at my local park and even in my yard. I cannot wait to go to beach and use it. Instead of trying to buy a very expensive one like I did, just buy something like this one and see if you even have the patience for metal detecting. It’s a nice hobby once you put the time and effort into it.”

Angel, another five-star reviewer, had great luck on their first try.  “First day and I got lots of coins and a ring at beach,” they rave. “Ferrous cancel is awesome!”

And Amazon user Billy Bob couldn’t be happier with his upgraded metal detector. “It’s way better than my Garrett AT Gold. It has tons of bells and whistles that I’ve yet to play with,” he writes. “Anything you would want to customize, you can. The basics are pretty easy to get down.”

The Nokta Legend vs. Minelab X-Terra Elite

Our experts on the product testing team tested 11 metal detectors. The Nokta Legend and the Minelab X-Terra Elite have comparable features and are similarly priced at $595 and $479, respectively.

Both metal detectors are lightweight and waterproof. They both have vibration alert, customizable discrimination settings and terrain-based presets. That said, the Nokta metal detector has more settings and customization options than the Minelab metal detector. The Nokta metal detector also allows you to create up to four user profiles.

When it comes to performance, both metal detectors are suitable for beginners and were able to detect gold from about eight inches away. As mentioned above, our testers found the Nokta metal detector to be quieter than they would have liked and had trouble seeing the all-black buttons. Overall, they preferred the Minelab metal detector’s screen and sounds.

Final Verdict

If you’re in the market for a metal detector, then this Nokta metal detector is a no brainer. And if you’re not in the market for a metal detector, go ahead and add this one to your cart anyway. You may discover a new hobby or finally find that piece of jewelry you lost all those years ago. And who knows? Since it detects objects 12-inches away or less, maybe you’ll even come across some real buried treasure. One thing is for sure: you’ll have fun getting out there and seeing what you can find. Happy hunting!

Where to Buy the Nokta Metal Detector

The Nokta metal detector is available for $595 on Amazon. You can even bundle it with a pair of wireless headphones for $679. The bundle is also available on Kellyco Metal Detectors.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

we tried it

Nokta Legend Metal Detector

The Nokta metal detector can detect objects from 12 inches away or less.

$595 at Amazon

Shop on Kellyco Metal Detectors

The post Strike Gold With the Nokta Metal Detector: Tested By Shopping Editors appeared first on Family Handyman.

With that in mind, it should be no shock that I’m all aboard the trend of decorating for Christmas with woodland animals. And I’m certainly not the only one. Popular brands like West Elm, Pottery Barn, Arhaus and Target are all getting in on the fun. Here’s some of my favorite woodland creature Christmas decor to spark joy this holiday season. Happy shopping!

The Best Woodland Animal Christmas Decorations

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Christmas Moose Family Lighted Display Set

Available in white, gold or brown, this moose duo is sure to spice up your outdoor Christmas decor.

Shop on Birch Lane

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Woodland Bunny Stocking

These cotton and velvet stockings are handmade, and feature greenery with red berries and your choice of an embroidered owl, cardinal, deer or rabbit.

Shop on Garnet Hill

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Illuminated Three Christmas Mice

This whimsical display features three mice toting presents across the lawn. Each mouse is a standalone piece, so you can create whatever formation you'd like.

Shop on Hammacher Schlemmer

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Small Pinecone Back Hedgehogs with Santa Hats

Affordable and adorable? Yes, please! This set of four hedgehogs add a little holiday cheer on a mantel, coffee table or the center of your dining table.

$21.18 at Amazon

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Tinsel Fox with Christmas Tree

Standing around 2.5 feet tall, this incandescent fox can be placed both indoors and out without issue (how cute are his little red boots and mini Christmas tree?).

Shop On Target

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Owl Glass Ball Ornament

This is not your traditional tree bauble. Available in a small or large size, this owl ornament features a bejeweled outside, dotted feathers and large, peering eyes.

Shop on West Elm

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Tassel Deer

Hand-spun jute and cotton adorn this deer, which is handmade in India. Talk about a decoration you'll have for years to come!

Shop on Arhaus

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Christmas Inflatable Santa's Sleigh with Raccoons

Forget boring yard inflatables. This sleigh is pulled by a trio of raccoons (wearing festive antlers, I may add) and inflates within a minute of set up.

Shop on Wayfair

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Realms of Glory Standing Cinnamon Bear

If money is no object, why not get this Christmas bear (who is effectively the height of an elementary school child)? He's handmade in the USA, and is outfitted in a bowtie and leopard print Santa hat.

Shop on Neiman Marcus

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Lighted Rattan Hedgehog Decoration

Have a holly, jolly hedgehog Christmas with this rattan woodland creature from Lowe's. He's wearing a Santa hat and has a wreath of pinecones, sprigs and berries.

Shop on Lowe's

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Sisal Christmas Squirrel Set

If you prefer a winter wonderland theme (but still want to incorporate woodland creatures into the mix), this white squirrel duo is the ticket. Hide them amongst the branches of your Christmas tree for an unexpected surprise.

$35.50 at Amazon

The post Decorating with Woodland Animals for Christmas? You Need These Cuties ASAP appeared first on Family Handyman.

If you’re like me and have a golf fanatic in your life, purchasing a golf simulator for Christmas makes a lot of sense, especially if you’ve already bought them every other golf-related gift out there. Sure, most golf simulators are really expensive. But you don’t have to go the Trackman route and pay $20,000+ to get a setup that’ll actually help your loved one’s game.

A huge chunk of the golf population is particularly fond of Skytrak simulators because they offer a good blend of functionality and value. Here are the best Skytrak options to gift (or treat yourself).

The Best Skytrak Golf Simulators

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SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor

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Perfecting your golf skill is in the minutia, so fixing small mistakes in your swing can have a hugely positive impact on your game. That’s where the SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor comes in. For the golf lover who’s more concerned with the data side of things, this option from Skytrak monitors:

• Carry distance
• Total distance
• Face-to-path
• Face angle
• Smash factor
• Club head speed
• Club path
• Shot shape
• Launch angle
• Side angle
• Descent angle
• Side spin
• Backspin
• Ball speed

When you consider the price of an entire golf simulator package and the sheer amount of insights the Skytrak+ Launch Monitor provides, the $2,500 price tag is quite a good deal.

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Golf Simulator Studio Pro

Shop on Skytrak

Here’s the thing about golf simulators. You can purchase everything separately or get a package (like the one above) that includes everything you need to get going in around an hour. This studio pro package comes in three sizes and offers the whole gamut of golf simulator tools, including a:

• Skytrak launch monitor
• Mounted projector
• Ball wing molded ball tray
• High-impact hitting mat
• Steel-framed enclosure
• Custom-sized putting turf
• Screen
• Side nets

Disclaimer: To enjoy a golf simulator properly, your giftee should have a garage, spare room or basement they’re looking to fill, as a simulator (and any extras like turf mats and clubs) will take up a decent chunk of space. You’ll also want to make sure their ceiling can accommodate a full swing from the clubs they intend to use with the simulator (not everyone wants to hit their driver on a simulator, so at least make sure the wedges they use work).

Where to Purchase a Skytrak Simulator or Launch Monitor

Ready to make your golfer’s dream come true? Purchase a Skytrak simulator or launch monitor straight from the Skytrak site. If you need a little help choosing a setup that will work with your room’s configurations, book a consultation with a sim pro here.

The post A Skytrak Golf Simulator Is the Only Christmas Gift the Golfer in Your Life Needs appeared first on Family Handyman.