Summer is the ideal time to head out on a bike ride or spend the afternoon gardening, but if your garage is a cluttered mess, getting out the front door or into your backyard can often feel like more trouble than it's worth. And as we head into fall and things go back into storage, the clutter only gets worse.

When it comes to organizing this typically chaotic space, I've found that hanging solutions − just like Rubbermaid's FastTrack Garage 12-Piece Steel Multipurpose Storage Rail System, available at Lowe's − help to maximize the space and make the most of vertical storage.

It's a simple, cost-effective way to organize a garage once and for all.

Of all items in a garage, bicycle storage ideas for sheds tend to pose the most problems. As bikes are such bulky, heavy, and cumbersome items, the last thing you'll want is an equally awkward storage system to match. Instead, the Rubbermaid FastTrack Garage 12-Piece Steel Multipurpose Storage Rail System, available at Lowe's, makes it effortlessly easy to organize a garage with too much stuff.

Equipped with rails, hooks, and more, it's conveniently designed to grow as life changes − simply add more accessories to the FastTrack Rail as and when you need it for a tailored fit to different storage needs. Featuring a heavy-duty steel construction, the storage system is capable of withstanding up to 1,750 pounds, so it's a reliable option for storing other heavy items, like organizing DIY tools, machinery and shovels, as well as bikes. Each locking hook can support up to 50 pounds, meaning you can safely hang them up off the ground without having to worry about them falling off.

This 12-piece set includes three 48-inch FastTrack rails, three cooler hooks, two multi-purpose hooks, two utility hooks, and two ladder hooks. It's also available in sizes from 32 to 84 inches, and in sets of one to 24 pieces, though many of these are currently out of stock, proving the popularity of this storage system.

If you're not up to scratch with the essential DIY skills every homeowner should know, the FastTrack Storage Rail System is also effortlessly easy to install.

'Super easy to install and versatile,' assures Matt alongside a five-star review on the Lowe's site. 'It’s very convenient that there are so many different hangers available for this rack system.'

Another similar review from Scottie adds, 'Sturdy and versatile. Love the system. Versatile enough to fit and install, and looks clean enough for the garage or the laundry room in the house. Ample hooks are included to hang everything from a 40-pound mountain bike to a stroller to yard tools.'

With this storage rail, paired with the golden rules for a clutter-free garage, this usually disordered space will be transformed from chaotic to calm in next to no time.

More to Shop

Whether you're decluttering a garage or looking to organize a garage when you downsize, shop from a curated selection of essentials below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

For some celebrity inspiration, Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's bike storage turns a bicycle into an entryway showpiece.

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We might be heading into August, but much of the US is still battling extreme temperatures. It can make getting a comfortable night's sleep more difficult than ever.

Switching to lightweight linens is an obvious way to keep cool, but for sleepers who prefer a little weight on them when sleeping, even in a heatwave, a 2.5 tog duvet insert offers a brilliant alternative.

Not only is IKEA's BLÅNEPETA Duvet Insert cool to the touch and moisture-wicking − it's also just $69.99. It's the perfect pick for keeping a bed cool in summer.

Heavy, heat-trapping bedding might be one of the things that are making your bedroom hotter, but the BLÅNEPETA Duvet Insert, available at IKEA, is anything but.

Infused with lyocell fibers in both the fabric and the fill, it feels cool and refreshing, and works to effectively absorb and redirect moisture away from your body as you sleep to keep you both dry and comfortably cozy.

When paired with a set of the best cooling sheets (our favorite is the ettitude Signature Bamboo Sheet Set) it's a simple, budget-friendly way to ensure better sleep, even throughout the enduring summer heatwaves.

It's also conveniently machine-washable, making it all the easier to stick to the correct spring and summer bedding washing frequency and wash, dry, and care for your duvet insert regularly.

With an average rating of 4.4 stars on the IKEA site, the reviews, which praise the BLÅNEPETA Duvet Insert for warm weather, speak for themselves.

'Just the right weight,' says Lauren. 'This is the second Blånepeta duvet we have purchased in a month − the weight is perfect to have a great summer sleep.'

Another, from Demetria, commends it as 'perfect.' 'We’ve recently changed up our bedding to the Scandinavian Sleep Method where we each have our own Twin duvet with cover instead of one large duvet and a flat sheet,' they explain. 'As such, we needed new options for seasonal change. These are super cool to the touch, [and] provide exactly the right amount of comfort and weight on warmer nights. Really happy with our decision.'

A final standout review from Joanne refers to it as a 'game changer,' elaborating enthusiastically, 'This has improved my quality of life dramatically. I absolutely love the way it keeps me cool while I sleep.'

If you've been struggling to sleep well this summer, don't delay in making the switch. Even better, pick up a second for cooling a guest bedroom at the same time, and a cooling mattress topper or pad to go with it.

More to Shop

From the best Amazon cooling sheets for layering your bed for summer to pillows that work to actively draw heat and moisture away from your neck, shop from a Sleep Editor-approved selection of summer sleeping essentials below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication, and refer to Queen sizes where applicable.

This affordable IKEA pillow is giving shoppers their 'best sleep in years,' and costs just $3.49.

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In many ways, my New York City studio apartment is a perfect space. It’s in a quiet building on a quiet street, it has tall ceilings and large windows, and its separate kitchen makes it feel so much bigger than it actually is. That said, there is one major downside – my apartment has hardly any storage.

Okay, there are a few cabinets in the kitchen and deep windowsills (if you can even count that as a storage idea), but otherwise, there’s no defined space to put clothes, shoes, handbags, books, and other miscellaneous objects. I thought about buying a rolling rack, but I quickly shot down that idea because I'm self-aware enough to know that it would always look messy. I even considered hunting for an antique armoire at the local flea market – another idea I dismissed because I knew it would be impossible to get a piece like that up my three flights of stairs.

After a few weeks of tirelessly searching for practical, functional, and good-looking storage for my small space, I finally came across the winner: IKEA’s PAX Wardrobe.

For my storage-less apartment, the PAX Wardrobe is a heaven-sent furnishing – giving me ample space for not only clothes and shoes, but for everything else that's been in need of a proper home, too. It makes sense for storage-deficient small bedrooms and shoebox-style apartments, but regardless of the size of your home, this wardrobe can effectively organize the space.

I see it working wonders in a mudroom – providing organization for hats, gloves, coats, and any other outdoor gear that usually gets tossed about. Since it's sold with several drawers, I'd recommend assigning drawers to family members so they know exactly where to stash their belongings when they enter the house. And since this wardrobe features a slide-out mirror, you can easily check your outfit before heading out the door.

What makes the PAX Wardrobe so desirable is that it's customizable – almost like you're getting a custom-made closet designed specifically for your space. It's sold in two sizes and three different colors. It'll ship with the frame, two doors, and interior elements that you can determine how to install – depending on your space's needs. And since it ships unassembled, you don't have to worry about mathematically angling it through your home before finding its resting spot.

I plan on making my PAX Wardrobe look less like a flat-pack furnishing and more like a bespoke piece by refashioning both its interior and exterior with design-driven details. If you want to do the same, shop my styling picks below.

How I'd Style IKEA's PAX Wardrobe

IKEA's PAX Wardrobe is one of the most practical solutions I've come across for adding a closet that looks custom without the custom price tag. It's sold with lots of interior features that you can install to your liking, and it can fit so much – from hanging shirts and folded pants to shoes, accessories, home supplies, or whatever else you need. Plus, you can even incorporate your own elements (like my suggestions above) to make it feel custom-made.

Sure, this wardrobe unit is an investment, but it's much cheaper than commissioning bespoke joinery, and I'm convinced it's totally worth it.

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After a long day, I want to make dinner with as little fuss as possible. One of my biggest kitchen frustrations is a dull knife that crushes my food rather than slicing it, dragging out simple prep and turning it into a chore.

Even the best chef's knives lose their edge over time, regardless of how much they cost or what cutting board you use. A knife sharpener is an essential every home cook should have in their kitchen.

I like to keep things simple, which is why this pull-through knife sharpener from Amazon has earned a permanent place in my utensil drawer. It restores a keen edge in minutes, doesn't require practice, and keeps my everyday knives cutting cleanly.

It is impossible to avoid dulling your best kitchen knives. No matter how often you use them, they will eventually go blunt. While you can replace them entirely, it is far more economical (and environmentally friendly) to sharpen kitchen knives instead.

'Sharp knives are safe knives,' explains Jesse Jeznach, Executive Chef at the IRONS Restaurant and Bar at Hilton Mystic. 'Dull knives are much more likely to slide around while you are using them, making it much more likely to slip and have an unfortunate accident, and being dull can leave you with a far worse cut than a sharp knife will.

'Sharp knives also do less damage to the items you are cutting, leaving you with crisp, clean cuts, whereas a dull knife can crush or bruise your meats and vegetables.'

The resulting meal prep is slicker, easier, and creates better-tasting, textured food.

A pull-through knife sharpener from Amazon is the easiest way to sharpen knives. It is admittedly not the best for very expensive knives, as they remove more metal than a manual sharpener might, but it requires the least amount of skill and patience, making it ideal for everyday home cooks such as myself. The base suctions onto the surface of your counter, and you pull the blade through one of the set holes to shave away metal and achieve a sharp edge.

It's quick, affordable, and offers consistent results. It's a game-changer when I am stuck trying to saw through an onion, and I simply would not be without one to hand.

What Else to Shop

Looking to elevate your food prep? I've rounded up some of the best knife sets, sharpeners, and care tools to keep your blades in peak condition and make everyday cooking faster, safer, and more enjoyable.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

With your knives taken care of, brush up on how to clean and care for every type of cookware to make the whole cooking experience easier.

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You've survived the summer break, but now the back-to-school rush is looming, and any hope of slow, stress-free mornings is starting to slip away.

It doesn't have to be that way. One of the biggest morning bottlenecks is getting everyone dressed, which is why these $24 Amazon packing cubes can make such a difference. Simply plan outfits, pack each day's clothes into a separate cube, and place them somewhere your child can easily reach.

It's a simple trick to organize a kid's room that encourages independence, cuts down on decision-making, and helps everyone get out the door a little faster.

This unconventional organizing method is simple. At the start of each week, select dress-code-friendly outfits for your child and pack each, with the appropriate extras such as hair ties, socks, etc., into the cubes. The weekday labels make them easy to arrange on a shelf or in a basket for your child to grab each morning.

The method is an easy way to encourage independence once your child is old enough to dress themselves, and can be a fantastic way to introduce your child to chores. The task can improve fine motor skills, help introduce routine, and offer a sense of autonomy.

These small accomplishments start the day with a sense of achievement. This, in turn, can help start the day in a better mood.

What Else to Shop

There is more to solving the rush than organizing your kids room for back-to-school success. These organizers are perfect for creating organized zones throughout your home to make the school run simpler for you all.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking for some more permanent upgrades to beat the morning rush? Consider these back-to-school mudroom upgrades.

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There is one thing I’m always trying to find more of in my small kitchen: counter space. Between preparing meals, setting down groceries, and dealing with the inevitable pile of dishes, even a few inches of extra room can make the whole space feel more functional.

That’s why I was immediately drawn to IKEA’s LILLHAVET multifunctional dish rack. At just $19.99, this compact kitchen organizer is designed to fit over the sink or sit on the countertop with its removable draining tray, giving you more flexibility than a traditional dish rack.

It may look like a simple kitchen essential, but its clever, space-saving design makes washing up feel a little less chaotic – especially if you want to declutter kitchen countertops or have a small kitchen with limited countertop space.

A Clever Way to Use Sink Space

Most dish racks take up a surprising amount of room. Once you add dinner plates, glasses, mugs, and cutlery, they can quickly dominate a countertop – and that is particularly frustrating in a small kitchen where every surface needs to work hard.

The LILLHAVET dish rack offers a more flexible alternative and is replacing the traditional dish rack. You can place it directly over the sink so water drips straight into the basin, or use it on the countertop with the included draining tray underneath.

That over-the-sink design is what makes it especially useful. Instead of losing valuable prep space to a bulky dish drainer, you can make use of an area that would otherwise sit empty.

The rack is also narrow enough to fit comfortably beside a sink without overwhelming the countertop. Measuring approximately 18¾ inches long and 6¾ inches wide, it has a slim profile but still holds up to five plates at once.

Despite its compact size, the LILLHAVET is designed to accommodate more than just plates. Its metal rack provides slots for dinnerware, while the removable plastic section can hold cutlery and collect excess water.

I particularly like that the design keeps different items separated. Plates can stand upright rather than being stacked in a pile, while glasses and mugs can be placed alongside them. This allows more air to circulate around each item, helping everything dry more efficiently.

The rack is made from steel with a protective coating designed to help prevent rust, while the draining tray and cutlery holder are made from polypropylene plastic containing at least 20% recycled material.

It also comes in a dark anthracite finish, which gives it a more streamlined, modern appearance than the shiny chrome dish racks that can make a kitchen counter look cluttered.

The Flexible Design Makes It Ideal for Small Kitchens

The LILLHAVET’s biggest advantage is that it can adapt to the way you use your kitchen. If you need as much countertop space as possible, place the rack over the sink and allow water to drain directly into the basin. If your sink is too small or you prefer to keep the rack beside it, use the included draining tray to protect the countertop.

The individual pieces can also be separated, which gives you more options when you have a larger load of dishes. You could use the metal rack for plates and place the draining tray elsewhere for glasses or mugs.

That flexibility makes this feel less like a basic dish rack and more like a small kitchen workstation. IKEA also designed the LILLHAVET to be combined with other accessories in the same collection, allowing you to create a more organized setup around the sink.

A Simple Upgrade for a More Organized Kitchen

Kitchen organization does not always require a major renovation or a complicated storage system. Sometimes, the most useful upgrades are the small, inexpensive additions that make everyday tasks easier.

The LILLHAVET dish rack helps keep wet dishes contained, frees up countertop space, and makes better use of the area around the sink. Its compact footprint also makes it a practical choice for apartments, studio kitchens, dorms, or any home with limited countertop space.

Of course, it is designed for smaller dish loads rather than a full family’s worth of washing up. If you regularly wash large pots, pans, and multiple place settings by hand, you may need additional drying space. But for everyday dishes – or as a compact secondary drying rack – its slim design is a smart solution.

If the LILLHAVET isn't the perfect match for your space, there are plenty of other well-designed dish racks worth considering. Here are a few of my favorite alternatives.

Shop Alternative Dish Racks

I am, regrettably, very easily influenced, so when I saw countless picture-perfect images of aesthetically organized pantries, I was always going to jump on the bandwagon.

Now, however, after several years of trying to maintain my food storage like it is a Pinterest board, I am finally letting the aesthetic go in favour of creating a cook space that works with me, not against me.

The best place to start? With the Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, available at Amazon. These non-toxic airtight storage gems come with scoops for easy use, keeping cooking simple and food fresher for longer.

Don't get me wrong, there can be plenty of benefits to aesthetic organizing tricks. They can make a small kitchen look more luxurious and, in the right space, create a calm, cohesive feel. But if you're dreading weekly refills, struggling to store bulky refill bags, or finding it harder to grab ingredients while cooking, it's a sign your system is working against you. More often than not, the most organized kitchen is the one that's designed for convenience, not just appearances.

The Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers have become my go-to for adding practicality back into my kitchen. The sturdy BPA-free plastic design means I am not worried about shattering glass should I drop or knock them (a godsend for someone as clumsy as me), while the airtight silicone seal helps keep food fresher for longer, fending off staleness and pests.

The smallest detail is the included serving scoops, but they are easily my favourite. When retrieving ingredients for cooking and baking, I do not have to dig around for another spoon and pile up the washing up in the sink. It's a quickgrab-and-go system that speeds up midweek dinners.

For those of us who are still concerned with pretty kitchen storage, the clear sides have a similar appeal to the rounded glass jars every Instagram-worthy home seems to use. The difference is that they feature matching latch lids instead of wooden tops, creating a more airtight seal to keep food fresher for longer.

Better still, their square shape makes far more efficient use of shelf space, allowing you to fit more into your cabinets without awkward gaps. In my small kitchen, making use of every inch is a must, and these containers do exactly that.

They're a simple swap that makes your pantry look better while being more efficient.

What Else to Shop

There are several food storage tricks that extend the life of your groceries and improve the workflow of your kitchen. These are my picks for improving practicality from day to day.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

When organizing your food storage, be sure to avoid these common kitchen storage mistakes to improve the flow of your workspace, not hinder it.

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I’ve always wondered what kind of chemicals I’m frying right into my food with some air fryers, from the coating on the nonstick surfaces.

When I started cooking with the Cuisinart ClearView Glass Basket Air Fryer, these fears disappeared. The PFAS-free glass cooking product allows you to air fry food, along with other cooking functions, in a high-visibility way.

After cooking with the product for my family for multiple weeks, here’s what I want consumers to know about it.

Product Specifications: Cuisinart ClearView Glass Basket Air Fryer

Design and First Impressions

The air fryer arrived fully assembled in a largely recyclable box and only needed a quick rinse before its first use. Although it is fairly heavy, it was easy to move around the counter without feeling unstable.

The design is a little bulky, but comparable to most basket-style air fryers I've tested. That said, the rounded baskets offer slightly less usable cooking space than newer oven-style models, so larger families may find the capacity limiting.

From the outset, I was keen to test its extra cooking modes, particularly the bake and broil functions, to see whether it could replace my oven for more recipes.

The glass baskets immediately felt more premium than traditional non-stick alternatives, and the included recipe booklet was a nice touch. However, it was fairly basic, so I found myself turning to online recipes for more inspiration.

Cooking Performance

In testing air fryers, we consider a variety of tests and recipes, and other factors such as noise and ease of cleaning. You can find more details on this process in our guide to How We Test Air Fryers.

One unique setting is the 'custom fav 1' and 'custom fav 2,' which allow you to save your favorite settings. This is extremely helpful with kids who always use a typical 35-degree ten-minute cycle for a variety of foods, for example. It also allows you to more quickly start cooking.

Overall, batching was the only frustration given the smaller size of the basket. In addition, I was much more careful allowing my older children to use this breakable product compared to some others in which they can easily grab a handle, shake a basket, and put it back to finish cooking. That said, however, it was a joy to use for small features such as the built-in light that illuminates your food inside so you can determine 'doneness.'

Here’s what I tried:

Chicken

I air-fried frozen chicken nuggets on the 'air fry' setting for around 15 minutes, at a higher temperature of around 450 degrees, because my kids love well-done nuggets. They came out crunchy, and it did take the whole 15 minutes, but even the pickiest kid loved their consistency.

The downside was that I had to cook in two batches, as I could not fit more than 7-10 of them at a time without having them overlap too much to cook well. This makes this air fryer ideal for solo cooking, or maybe for two, but not the best pick for a large family or hosting.

Roasted Vegetables

In addition to cooking the vegetables in the air fryer, I also practiced using the 'recrisp' function in heating leftovers, which allowed them to regain that crunchiness you get right out of an air fryer the first time. Both functions worked well, and the vegetables cooked in around half the time of roasting them in the oven, which was helpful.

After the recrisp, they did feel a bit overdone, so I might stick to that function for other types of food in the future.

Corn on the Cob

I baked corn on the cob then followed that by a broil setting to achieve a crunchier outer layer on the corn. The baking was causing a bit of mushiness but the broil setting helped, showing that sometimes adjusting the setting halfway through is helpful. Since the product is glass, you can keep a good eye on how it’s cooking and adjust through the cooking cycle as needed.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning was simple, with most components being dishwasher-safe. I also found myself using the glass cooking containers with their lids to store leftovers, meaning I rarely had to wash up extra food storage containers.

As with any glass cookware, food can occasionally stick, but no more than I'd expect. A quick wipe around the base where the glass container sits is all that's needed to keep the appliance in good condition.

Storage is the biggest compromise. The unit is fairly bulky and, because of the glass components, requires a little more care when putting it away. I kept mine on the floor of my pantry, though a sturdy, high-clearance shelf would also work. If you have the counter space, however, it's an appliance you'll likely want to keep out for everyday use.

How Does the Cuisinart ClearView Glass Basket Air Fryer Compare?

The product has earned high reviews, with 97% of the 45 reviewers on the site recommending it, with a 4.8 rating. The review summary shares: 'Customers overwhelmingly praise this air fryer for its transparent glass basket, which eliminates guesswork and prevents overcooking while allowing heat retention. The smooth glass surface cleans effortlessly with no trapped food or crevices, making maintenance remarkably simple.

'Reviewers highlight intuitive controls, helpful features like shake reminders and built-in cooking lights, and reliable performance delivering crispy, evenly cooked results across diverse foods. Quiet operation and compact design appeal to small households.

'A few note the basket slides easily during handling, and one reported early malfunction, but these isolated concerns do not diminish overall strong satisfaction.'

I agree with the sentiments in this summary, though I never had an early malfunction.

Should You Buy The Cuisinart ClearView Glass Basket Air Fryer?

I’ve tested dozens of countertop ovens and air fryers in the last decade as a product journalist, and found it to be highly accurate, quiet, and helpful, especially because I rest assured I’m not using chemicals in the materials heating my food.

However, I find it somewhat slower and less convenient on a daily basis, compared to some others that have a single handle that you grab and shake without completely removing the cooking container. In addition, glass has pros and cons that people should consider.

It does have a good amount of settings, but not so many that it’s overwhelming, which is a benefit compared to some competitors with just too many options. There isn’t as much of a learning curve with the Cuisinart Glass Basket Air Fryer, which is also helpful.

Overall, I highly recommend this product to most home cooks, especially in smaller households: It is high quality, feels safe, and cooks accurately.

I would buy this product if I were worried about other PFAS and more suspect cookware surfaces in other products, as it’s hard to argue with the safety of glass. It helps to have a highly intuitive and not-too-complex settings bar at the top, and that cook times and temperatures felt quick and accurate overall. This would suit most people unless they had kids frequently using the product.

How We Test Air Fryers

When looking at air fryers, we consider several things. Firstly, we look at the materials, looking for potentially toxic coatings, and prioritizing non-toxic products for peace of mind. Then, we focus on exceptional cooking performance. As a team of trained cooks, product testers, and appliance experts, we rigorously test each model by air-frying frozen fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables. During our taste tests, we seek food that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within. Having tested the market leaders, we’re familiar with the industry benchmarks.

Ease of use is key, so our tests evaluate the intuitiveness of controls, basket design, and the accuracy of recipe presets. We also explore special features, like grilling and dehydrating, to assess versatility. While cooking, we make notes on capacity – essential for those looking for family-sized air fryers.

Since cleaning can be a hassle, we check if the removable parts are easy to wash, whether by hand or in the dishwasher. We also examine materials' durability, as this is a key criterion for long-lasting, non-toxic items. After testing, we scour the web for the best and worst customer reviews to assess the air fryer's reliability and overall customer satisfaction.

You can go behind the scenes and read more details on our how we test air fryers page.

What Else to Shop

We have rounded up a selection of the best non-toxic air fryer accessories and alternative models to help you set up a new, healthier cooking setup.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Your kitchen should not be the only consideration when detoxing your routine. We have a complete guide to creating a non-toxic home to help you get started.

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Good storage is essential in any home, but finding a solution that effortlessly combines both style and function can sometimes be tricky.

Yet, with a natural charm, handwoven finish, and chic, statement shape, the FLÅDIS Basket from IKEA somehow balances both in perfect measure, with shoppers snapping up multiple to tidy different spaces all around their homes.

It proves that the beauty of the best storage ideas lies in their versatility.

No home fails to benefit from using storage baskets properly: Minimizing visual clutter, making the most of vertical storage, and corralling miscellaneous items that often end up strewn across countertops.

This simple yet oh-so-effective storage idea is a staple that works in any space, and IKEA's FLÅDIS Basket is one of the best woven storage baskets I've found.

Braided from seagrass with sturdy handles, it's portable, flexible, and pretty enough to leave out on display in your bedroom, living room, shelves, or entryway.

The unique design offers plenty of space for bulkier items − like storing towels and linens, blankets, bedding, and cushions − as well as smaller odds and ends which tend to get lost or misplaced.

That same adaptability is proven by all the clever ways shoppers have used the FLÅDIS Basket around their homes.

For example, alongside her five-star review on the IKEA site, Stefanie shares how she used hers as a planter in her living room and 'loved how it looks,' while another shopper adds, 'I use this basket on top of my laundry machines to hide my laundry detergent and supplies. It is so pretty, and I have had lots of compliments!'

Plenty of people have bought more than one, too. 'Have several of these,' says Phoebe. 'Never realized before I got them in the mail that they can all fit inside of each other, which is a great storage trick for the empties. Hope they never stop making these. Great for magazines.'

Others note that it makes for the 'ultimate garden basket,' dog toy storage for organizing pet supplies, yarn storage, and even a 'nice cat basket.' And the best part? If you're too tired to tidy, it also makes the perfect catch-all basket − simply pop out-of-place items straight into it, and sort them once you have the time or energy.

More to Shop

Interested in shopping for more storage baskets and solutions to overhaul your living room storage, make your entryway storage look nicer, or utilize space-saving ways to use vertical storage? Browse a curated selection of top-rated favorites below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you're curious about what storage makes a home look expensive in 2026, opt for color-drenched picks and floor-to-ceiling shelving.

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Why would I buy a small, countertop oven when I have an oven? This was my first thought when I began testing the Typhur Sync Oven. But I quickly realized the immense benefits when roasting my vegetables took half the time, and could happen while cooking a pizza for kids on another rack or air frying chicken nuggets. I wondered if I needed my oven anymore after a few weeks.

The oven operates differently from a traditional standard oven. It works based on the temperature of the food and has functions to prevent overcooking, rather than using a set amount of cook time in an oven or even a microwave.

There are multiple levels for cooking and various trays and surfaces to use, so while there’s a learning curve with the process and settings, it might be worth it for many people who don’t have access to an oven or want more precision in their cooking. It has shaped up to be one of the best non-toxic air fryers − here's why.

Product Specifications: Typhur Sync Oven

Design and First Impressions

I had to get help removing the large product from the box. Not only was it tough to do, but the product itself is quite heavy at 26 pounds. There are also rubber grips on the bottom that make it difficult to relocate once it’s in a certain position, so sliding it wasn’t really an option.

I was happy as I explored the design to learn that the trays slide in and out quite easily, but more importantly, that they remain supported and elevated when they are extended, for the most part. This means that you can work with the food with two hands without having to hold the tray with the other.

At first, I was intimidated by the number of settings and learning the best process for selecting what options to use to cook various foods, especially as I started to think through cooking multiple types of food at once. This is because there is a corresponding number you choose for various foods, such as two or three, and I had to keep looking up which number to select in the guidebook.

As I stepped back, I also realized that the product will only fit on one of my counters, in a corner, or positioned in the middle of the island. This means that those without much counter space might not be able to use this product.

There is a corresponding app that is simple to find, sync, and try, but largely unnecessary; you don’t have to use it to operate the oven. After a simple wash-down of some trays and a bit of a learning curve, I was ready to cook.

Cooking Performance

We test a range of standard foods across our air fryers over a few weeks (up to one month) to judge performance and make comparisons between appliances, as detailed in How We Test Air Fryers.

As a mom of five, I set out to make a full kid-friendly dinner as part of this experiment. Here are the tests I performed and how the food turned out.

French Fries

It’s easy to mess up basic potato wedges or French fries in an air fryer or even a standard oven. Sometimes they come out too crispy on the outside, but mushy on the inside. Sometimes they flop and are just mushy overall.

I was pleasantly surprised to see the oven perform so well on cooking these roasted potato wedges in around half the time of a typical standard oven. However, I did notice a substantial nine minutes to preheat the oven to the correct setting.

Chicken

One of the most basic functions of an air fryer, which this oven serves as, is to cook crispy chicken tenders or chicken nuggets. So, I was shocked to see it outperform both my standard oven and my air fryer by around eight minutes, taking just 10 of the projected 18 minutes to actually finish the job.

Pizza

At first I didn’t think a pizza would fit in this oven, but I was wrong. A large-size frozen pizza did fit, but I ended up cutting it in half just for ease of manipulating it. At the end of the pizza cooking setting, the pizza wasn’t quite done enough, so I moved to a broil setting to brown up the top a bit more. However, during the transition from baking to broiling, the pizza started to burn while preheating. So, this experiment wasn’t the smoothest, though the pizza still turned out to be good and edible.

Overall, I struggled with the mental load of choosing the right setting, determining if I wanted to use the app or thermometer or not, and which type of food was meant to go on which rack. All of these are important considerations that get easier with time, but definitely involve a little time, patience, and even taking some notes on what works best for the foods you usually cook.

But, I was pleased to see I didn’t have to cook in batches on any of these items, though I was feeding a family of seven, which is a feat in itself. In this way, the size of the product paid off, and offset the issues with the overall size and space it takes up on the counter.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the trays on the Typhur Sync Oven was simple. All they need is a simple rinse or wipe down. What I loved most was the crumb catch tray at the bottom of the oven. It is simple to remove and clean out, so you are not spending time scrubbing the base of the main unit after every meal.

Ingredients don’t really get stuck in hard-to-reach places due to this helpful bottom tray, though there was a bit of scrubbing to get some melted cheese off the rack the pizza was on. However, this is to be expected with any oven or tray. The removable parts and even the thermometer are dishwasher-safe, which is a nice convenience after cooking.

Because of its size, storing this oven in the cabinet is likely not an option for most people. But I was able to store it on the floor when I wanted the counter space back for a dinner party.

How Does the Typhur Sync Oven Compare?

I have tested numerous products that perform a versatile number of cooking tasks, including similar ovens and air fryers. I overall found this product to be somewhat harder to use, but with some thoughtful perks such as the ability to pull out the tray without it dropping down, supporting itself while you rearrange something on the tray, and other benefits like quick cooking time. That said, it presented some new issues, such as longer preheating times for some settings, and a significant amount of counter space needed.

A main differentiator is the probe inserted into the food, and how that links to the total cook time. For those that prefer ultra-precise cooking, especially for larger cuts of meat, this will help make a roast, whole chicken, or other meals.

Overall, it is more precise at cooking a variety of foods, but it might be too intimidating or complicated for some users to fully benefit from the product. On the product’s page, over 100 reviewers have averaged a 4.7 rating, with some pointing to its sleek look and durability, and others saying it’s more accessible for some groups than leaning over a full-size oven.

Should You Buy The Typhur Sync Oven?

My verdict is that the oven is well thought out and helpful, solving problems for a variety of home cooks. However, the size and complexity might be a barrier for some.

This oven would suit people who have accessibility issues reaching their full-sized oven. They also might find it helpful if they want to cook multiple types of foods at once, or want more precise, temperature-controlled results in their cooking. But it would be most helpful for those who don’t have access to an oven but want to have the full range of cooking an oven can offer, combined with the benefits of an air fryer. This could fully replace a traditional oven for many.

How We Test Air Fryers

When looking at air fryers, we consider several things. Firstly, we look at the materials, looking for potentially toxic coatings, and prioritizing non-toxic products for peace of mind. Then, we focus on exceptional cooking performance. As a team of trained cooks, product testers, and appliance experts, we rigorously test each model by air-frying frozen fries, chicken wings, and roasted vegetables. During our taste tests, we seek food that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within. Having tested the market leaders, we’re familiar with the industry benchmarks.

Ease of use is key, so our tests evaluate the intuitiveness of controls, basket design, and the accuracy of recipe presets. We also explore special features, like grilling and dehydrating, to assess versatility. While cooking, we make notes on capacity – essential for those looking for family-sized air fryers.

Since cleaning can be a hassle, we check if the removable parts are easy to wash, whether by hand or in the dishwasher. We also examine materials' durability, as this is a key criterion for long-lasting, non-toxic items. After testing, we scour the web for the best and worst customer reviews to assess the air fryer's reliability and overall customer satisfaction.

You can go behind the scenes and read more details on our how we test air fryers page.

What Else to Shop

We have rounded up a selection of the best non-toxic air fryer accessories and alternative models to help you set up a new, healthier cooking setup.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

For many of us, choosing the best kitchen appliances can feel overwhelming. When picking from a small countertop oven, a toaster oven, or an air fryer, check out our guide to the best toaster ovens to find the perfect choice for you.

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If your laundry room always feels short on space, ALDI's latest middle aisle find could be the solution. The retailer has launched the Easy Home Extendable Air Dryer, a foldable clothes drying rack designed to maximize drying space without permanently taking over your home. Priced at $34.99, it's a practical alternative to running the dryer for every load and folds flat when not in use.

As more homeowners look for ways to make laundry rooms work harder, versatile products like this are becoming increasingly popular. Whether you live in an apartment, have a compact utility room, or simply want to cut back on energy use during warmer weather, an air dryer is one of the easiest ways to create extra drying space without a permanent footprint.

I currently use and love the top-rated Clothes Drying Rack from Amazon, which has been a game-changer for air-drying everything from knitwear to towels, so I can definitely see the appeal of ALDI's more compact, foldaway alternative for smaller homes and laundry rooms.

If you're searching for small laundry room ideas, this is one of those hardworking buys that ticks every box. The extendable design provides plenty of drying space for everything from T-shirts and towels to larger items, before collapsing flat for easy storage once your washing has dried.

Why This ALDI Laundry Find Stands Out

Unlike bulky drying racks that permanently occupy valuable floor space, the Easy Home Extendable Air Dryer has an adjustable frame that expands while you're drying clothes indoors and folds neatly away afterward. That makes it particularly useful for apartments, smaller homes, and laundry rooms where every inch counts.

'The best laundry room products are the ones that disappear when you're not using them,' says Ottilie Blackhall, Sleep and Laundry Writer, at Homes & Gardens. 'Foldable drying racks are a smart investment because they give you flexibility without permanently sacrificing valuable floor space.'

Another advantage is that air-drying clothes can help reduce energy consumption while being much gentler on delicate fabrics than frequent tumble drying. During the warmer months, it's an easy way to lower household energy use while helping garments last longer.

Perfect for Apartments, Utility Rooms, and Small Spaces

One of the biggest selling points of this drying rack is its versatility. It can be used in a laundry room, bathroom, spare bedroom, or even outside on a patio when the weather is dry.

Because it folds flat, it's easy to slide behind a washing machine, tuck inside a closet, or store beside a cabinet when not in use. That makes it an especially practical choice if you're trying to keep a compact laundry room clutter-free.

If you regularly air-dry knitwear, activewear, delicates, or linens, having an extendable rack like this means you won't need to drape clothes over doors, radiators, or furniture.

Shop More Laundry Room Essentials

If the ALDI Easy Home Extendable Air Dryer sells out – as many Special Buys do – these alternatives are also worth considering.

Whether you're looking to save energy, protect delicate clothes, or free up floor space, ALDI's Easy Home Extendable Air Dryer is a practical buy. It offers full-size drying space when needed, then folds away neatly to keep your laundry area tidy. If your budget stretches further, though, I highly recommend the Joseph Joseph Eclipse 3-Tier Adjustable Laundry Drying Rack – our in-house sleep and laundry expert swears by it.

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Filled with both foam and microcoils, the Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper provides an impressive level of contouring comfort and offers the perfect solution for hot sleepers looking to firm up an older, sagging mattress.

It's also cool-to-the-touch, thermoregulating, and boasts excellent edge support for sleepers who struggle to get into and out of bed with ease. That being said, available in only two firmness levels (Soft and Firm), the Firm option may be a little too firm for some sleepers, but it does soften over time and will offer those who suffer from sleep-related aches and pains some welcome relief.

In the running for the best mattress topper, it's a worthy contender.

Specifications: Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper

Unboxing and First Impressions: Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper

The Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper arrived conveniently rolled in a large box, which is great if you live in a small apartment or have a narrow staircase, but it was far too heavy for me to move on my own. My partner, however, was able to carry it down the stairs with ease, so if you're not particularly strong, I'd suggest asking a friend or family member to help maneuver it.

As suggested on the side of the box, my partner helped me to pull the topper out of the box, unwrap it from its plastic, and roll it out on top of my mattress to give it time to expand to its full thickness.

Immediately, I was met with a strong off-gassing smell which took more than a few days to dwindle. This is harmless and nothing out of the ordinary for mattress toppers, particularly those with a foam-based filling, but it is something to note if you're planning on using yours to sleep on straight out of the box.

Instead, I'd suggest unrolling it and letting it expand in another room − preferably an unused guest bedroom if you have one − with the windows open, before moving it onto your bed once the smell has dissipated.

Once the topper had had time to expand fully, I was initially struck by just how thick it is, though I've fortunately had no trouble with fitting my sheets over the top. Lying down on it for the first time, it felt firm yet supportive.

What's It Like to Sleep On the Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper?

Pressure relief (5/5): If anything, the pressure relief on this mattress topper is almost too good for my preferences. Lying on my back, I hardly sank at all, and as a side sleeper, the Firm sleep surface is a little too firm on my shoulder, although it has softened to become more comfortable over time.

That being said, if you prefer a back or stomach sleep position, this topper will be perfectly suited to you, as you'll need firmer support to protect your neck and back as you rest.

This does make me question whether the Soft firmness option would have been better suited to me, but with only two levels to choose from, I was also concerned that the Soft might be too soft.

Instead, my favorite topper, the Nolah AirFoam Luxe Mattress Topper, which I recently reviewed, is available in only one Medium-soft option, but strikes the perfect middle ground.

Thermoregulation (5/5): Just like my Nolah favorite, the Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper feels cool to the touch and worked to keep me comfortable all night long with optimal thermoregulation.

Therefore, it's a good option for hot sleepers, people who suffer from night sweats, or for keeping a bed cool in summer.

Motion Isolation (5/5): That level of firmness makes for excellent motion isolation. As I moved the 1.5-kilogram weight towards a glass of water in the middle of the topper, it hardly tipped at all, and the same could be said when I doubled the weight applied to three kilograms.

As I share a bed with my partner, I've also never woken up as he moves around in the night, so it's an excellent choice for those who regularly share a bed with a partner, pet, or child.

Edge support (5/5): Similarly, the Firm sleep surface boasts the best edge support I've ever experienced in a topper. This means it's perfect for older people or those with disabilities or limited mobility, who may struggle to get into and out of bed with ease. It's both comfortable to sit and sleep on, right to the very edge.

Delivery (5/5): The Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper arrived conveniently vacuum-packed in a slimline box straight to my door, though it was too heavy for me to move without help. Shipping is also completely free.

Who Would the Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper Suit?

• Back and stomach sleepers: In the Firm option I tested, the level of support will be best suited to back and stomach sleepers. If you tend to sleep on your side, I'd opt for the Soft option instead.
• Sleepers with back pain: It's a common misconception that a firm sleep surface causes back pain. In reality, too soft a surface can cause your spine and neck to bend and become misaligned, worsening the pain. For that reason, this topper is well-suited to those with chronic aches and pains.
• Hot sleepers: The GlacioTex Cooling Cover of this topper offers advanced cooling, while open cell technology in the foam allows body heat to escape for a naturally cooling sleep. I was kept comfortable all night long, even throughout summer heatwaves.
• Couples: Boasting excellent motion isolation, this topper is ideal for couples who share a bed.

What Shoppers Say About the Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper

When assessing a mattress topper, we always take a look at on-site customer reviews to evaluate the common consensus.

The Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper has a respectable overall rating of 4.3 out of five stars, across 40 reviews. One five-star review that particularly stood out to me, written by Victoria, urges, 'Worth the investment. Give it time!

'My husband and I were waking up with back and arm pain, so we bought this topper to firm up our memory foam mattress. It was incredibly firm at first, giving us new aches and pains to the point where we almost returned it. I'm so glad we held out!

'In time, all the aches vanished. It is expensive, but compared to the cost of a new King bed, it's a great value.'

As this firmness has been one of my concerns, I'm now confident that with continued use beyond the 30-night test period, the topper will continue to get more and more comfortable.

Another five-star review, from Tim, a side and back sleeper who tested the Firm option, adds, 'I was constantly waking up with back pain, and now I don't. This is a total game-changer. I am so grateful for this company and this topper. It's truly changed my life!'

There are two verified one-star reviews to speak of, which call the topper 'overpriced,' uncomfortable,' and comment that it 'made the back pain worse,' but these are largely outweighed by the positive reviews. Between the 40 reviews, 28 are five-star, while there are only four four-star reviews, three three-star reviews, three two-star reviews, and two one-star reviews.

My Verdict

In conclusion, I've had an overall positive experience with the Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper and have been impressed with the cooling qualities, pressure relief, edge support, and motion isolation, all of which scored five out of five stars.

I knocked a star off for the off-gassing, quite how firm the Firm option is (though, as I've noted, this is subjective), and the high price point of $660 for a Queen size. This is the most expensive topper we've ever tested here at Homes & Gardens, and I'm not overly convinced it's wholly justified.

For comparison, my favorite AirFoam Luxe Mattress Topper from Nolah features that same GlacioTex cooling cover, thermoregulating qualities, and better cradling comfort in any sleep position at just over half the price. Equivalently, we also rated the Viscosoft High-Density Mattress Topper an equal four stars in our Viscosoft Topper review, but that pick comes in at a disparately affordable $234.95, and scored just the same.

That being said, the Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper did perform well, and is a perfect pick for fixing a sagging mattress, and definitely if you're looking to make a mattress firmer. If you do think it will suit you and are planning to purchase one, you should be able to save some money in the mattress sales.

How We Test Mattress Toppers

The process for testing mattress toppers here at Homes & Gardens is a long one − 30 nights of testing to thoroughly assess the practicalities, pressure relief, thermoregulation, motion isolation, and edge support.

Before testing begins, I match each topper to one of our expert testing panel: Cooling toppers for hot sleepers, supportive toppers for those with chronic pain, and so on. Once matched, testers sleep on each topper for a minimum of 30 nights.

To assess the pressure relief of each topper, we first lie on the topper and switch between positions to find what feels most comfortable. We then note if any positions feel uncomfortable or exacerbate any pain when sleeping.

For thermoregulation, we first note whether the particular topper has cooling qualities, like the GlacioTex cooling cover included here. If it does, we'll assess whether it lives up to claims, and, if not, we'll consider whether it still worked effectively to maintain an ideal sleep temperature overnight. For example, we'll note whether we ever wake up overheating or feeling too cold.

For motion isolation, we place a glass of water in the middle of the topper, and move a weight towards it in small increments, observing how much the glass tips as the weight approaches. The more the glass tips, the worse the motion isolation is. Where possible, we'll also assess how much we're affected by the movement of sharing a bed with someone else, to note whether it's a good pick for couples.

Finally, edge support is assessed by placing a weight on the edge of the topper, noting how much it sinks. We'll also sit in different positions on the edge of the bed (and consider when getting into and out of bed), noticing how much the edge collapses, causing us to slip and slide off.

Then, we'll look at customer reviews to assess the general consensus from shoppers, and consider the ease of the delivery process, warranty, and length of the sleep trial.

As always, we'll then bring it back to the price of the topper to determine why or why not we feel the price point is justified.

What to Shop

If you're interested in browsing more bedding picks, I've curated a selection of favorites to shop below − all of which are sure to elevate your sleep space and provide long-lasting, luxurious comfort.

All prices were correct at the time of publication and refer to Queen sizes where applicable.

Pair your new topper with one of the best mattress protectors, and it will last for years to come.

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It's no secret that a dorm room is a typically uninspiring space. Four white walls, a neutral carpet, and identical furniture to the identical rooms to either side make for a characteristically bland feel − but with a plain room comes great potential for plenty of dorm room ideas.

It's a space where you'll spend countless hours studying, socializing, and sleeping, so it's important to foster a positive and intentional living space, guided by the age-old principles of Feng Shui.

Here, Feng Shui experts share their advice on how to create good bedroom Feng Shui, and optimize a dorm room space for academic success and good fortune.

1. Minimize Clutter by Choosing Decor Pieces with Meaning and Intention

As Helen Ye Plehn, third-generation Feng Shui Master and Author of The Aura Color Wheel, available at Amazon, highlights, a dorm room is so much more than just a place to sleep.

'It's where students study, recharge, and process a major life transition,' she says. 'In Feng Shui, your environment is an extension of your own energy field, so when your room is cluttered, your mind often feels cluttered too.

'I encourage students to treat clutter as 'stuck energy.' Keep only what you genuinely use during the semester, and create a home for every item.'

Simple steps like making your bed each morning, cleaning your desk before studying with a spritz of Method All-Purpose Cleaner Spray, available at Walmart, and putting away laundry regularly are small, easy-to-implement habits that create a greater sense of calm and mental clarity, helping to boost productivity in turn.

'A clear space supports better focus, lower stress, and deeper rest, which are all essential for academic success,' she adds.

2. Avoid Piling Belongings to Harness Chi and Reduce Stagnant Energy

According to Helen, one of the biggest mistakes she sees in small living spaces, like small bedrooms, is vertical clutter − think piles of clothes, books, boxes, or bags stacked on the floor or furniture.

'In Feng Shui, these piles create energetic stagnation because they interrupt the natural flow of qi, or life-force energy,' she explains. 'Instead of creating one large pile, think vertically in an organized way.'

For example, use dorm room storage essentials, like under-bed storage ideas, shelf organizers, hooks behind the door, such as the ENUDDEN Hanger, available at IKEA, and storage baskets and bins that conceal items while keeping them accessible.

'Leave open floor space whenever possible,' continues Helen. 'Even in the smallest dorm, creating a little breathing room helps the space feel lighter and allows energy to circulate more freely.'

That way, you'll have plenty of space to consider Feng Shui furniture placement, too.

3. Cleanse Old Energy from Former Residents by Wiping Surfaces and Airing Out the Space

Finally, shares Helen, 'Every dorm room has a history. Whether or not someone believes in subtle energy, thoroughly cleaning a room before moving in creates a powerful psychological reset and establishes a sense of ownership.'

So, to deep clean your dorm room, Helen advises that she always recommends wiping down every surface, such as desks, shelves, windowsills, closet interiors, and door handles, before unpacking.

Then, open the windows to bring in fresh air if possible − a practice known as Lüften − replace burnt-out light bulbs, and let natural light fill the room.

'As you clean, set the intention that you're clearing away old energy and welcoming a fresh chapter,' adds Helen. 'In Feng Shui, intention and action work together to transform a space into one that supports your wellbeing.'

What to Shop

If you're heading off to college in the fall and getting ahead of your shopping before the semester officially begins, I've curated a selection of stylish, fun, and functional items to add to your dorm room checklist below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

'My advice is to create distinct energetic zones, even within a single room,' conclues Helen. 'Your bed should represent rest, your desk should represent focus, and your floor should remain as open as possible for movement and flow.

'If possible, position your desk so you feel supported rather than facing a blank wall for hours. Add one healthy plant or a meaningful object that inspires you, but avoid overcrowding the space with decorations. Surround yourself with items that genuinely lift your mood instead of visual noise.

'I also encourage students to create a simple five-minute evening reset. Clear the desk, return belongings to their designated place, and spend a moment setting an intention for the next day. Feng Shui isn't about perfection; it's about creating an environment that continuously supports your energy, focus, creativity, and emotional wellbeing.'

For more dorm room inspiration, be sure to explore our round-up of the 10 IKEA dorm room must-haves every parent should buy before move-in.

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We may still be in July, but summer humidity can already leave homes feeling damp and musty. And whether we're ready or not, fall is just around the corner, bringing cooler temperatures, wetter weather, and even more favorable conditions for mold and mildew.

While open windows and dehumidifiers work well to keep moisture levels down, the DampRid Reusable Moisture Absorber, available at Amazon, attracts and traps excess humidity in the air, while eliminating musty odors for a clean, fresh home.

It's an efficient way to curb mold and mildew, and costs just $30 for the reusable moisture absorber and four drop-in tablets.

Damp is usually the root cause of why your house smells musty, which is why combating it becomes all the more important as temperatures begin to dip. And, if you don't have time to fuss over (or the budget to invest in) one of the best dehumidifiers, the DampRid Reusable Moisture Absorber, available at Amazon, offers a minimal-effort approach at an affordable price point.

Designed to attract and trap excess moisture immediately, the absorber, which comes with four tablets ready for use, effectively eliminates musty odors and creates a cleaner, fresher home environment. It's also effortlessly easy to use: Simply unwrap a tablet, place it in the top of the container, and let it get to work. Then, once the tablet has dissolved, all that's left to do is empty the liquid, rinse out any residue, and replace the tablet.

As it's non-electric, this solution will also help you to cut energy bills and save money at home, and is ideal for use in basements, garages, laundry rooms (which will have the added benefit of making laundry smell better), and other areas where excess moisture and stagnant air are a common annoyance.

What Shoppers Say

If you're doubtful about whether the DampRid Reusable Moisture Absorber will actually work to control humidity in the home, rest assured that shopper reviews confirm, 'It actually works!'

'I’ve placed this in my bathroom, and after just one week, this product has absorbed so much moisture. I can’t say that I physically feel the difference, but I absolutely notice a reduction in the mildew-ish smell that comes with a humid environment.'

Another review, from Cindy, adds that it 'works great for removing moisture from a laundry room,' while a third echoes that it 'reduces moisture effectively.'

'Living in Florida and always concerned about mold, mildew, and moisture,' explains Barbara. 'This product does exactly as expected and keeps my closets smelling fresh.'

More to Shop

Whether you need to get rid of musty smells in your entryway or fix an under-sink cabinet musty smell naturally, shop from a selection of top-rated deodorizing essentials below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Once you've tackled humidity in the air, get mildew smells out of clothes and towels using antibacterial fragrances and air-drying.

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As kitchen design gets more relaxed and built-in cabinetry mixes with freestanding pieces, the humble kitchen hutch is making a comeback. Full of character and offering a place to display your favorite wares, it's a furniture piece designers are excited to see back in our cooking spaces.

But it's a kitchen storage idea that goes beyond just functionality, doubling as a beautiful focal point and creating space for both essentials and decor. And the key to the success of this freestanding furniture is in the styling. To help you curate a beautiful kitchen hutch that's as pretty as it is practical, we've turned to interior designers to discover their hutch styling tips – and why they say it's a kitchen trend that's here to stay.

Hutches and dressers were once a staple in every kitchen. Shelves would be filled with ceramics, from plates and servers to teapots and butter dishes, while closed storage at the bottom would be utilized for dry ingredients and the lesser-used items that didn't need to be on display.

They were hardworking features of a kitchen, which evolved to blend aesthetics with functionality. And that's exactly why they are enjoying a revival this year. As trends continue to showcase the growing desire for freestanding kitchens that feel lived-in and personalized, a hutch is the missing piece.

'The main appeal of a kitchen hutch or dresser is that it acts as a standalone piece of furniture, bringing warmth and character to the space. I always look for antique or vintage pieces, as their imperfections are my favorite part. It is also the perfect opportunity to paint the piece a fun, standout color that complements the rest of the room,' says interior stylist Melanie Marshall.

It's especially appealing in kitchen styles that lean less modern and minimal. From country kitchens to coastal schemes, a hutch offers a visual relief from continuous built-in cabinetry, creating a more collected, characterful design.

'I love a kitchen hutch because it's a great way to break up all of the built-in cabinetry. Kitchens can start to feel really boxy, so introducing a furniture piece adds new tones, textures, and shapes that make the room feel much more layered and collected,' says interior designer Cathryn Lindsey.

'It also creates an opportunity for open shelving without losing valuable upper cabinets. You can mix beautiful decorative objects with functional pieces, giving the kitchen more personality while still providing practical storage for glassware, serving pieces, or china.'

How to Style a Kitchen Hutch

1. Treat Your Hutch Styling like a Bookshelf

The way you style a hutch differs from how you style your other kitchen storage. It requires a balance between kitchenware and decorative elements, especially if you want it to create a more personalized feel in your cooking space.

'I treat it more like styling a bookshelf than stocking a cabinet. Layer in a small piece of artwork, a framed photo, a stack of books, a ceramic vase, or a vintage object so it doesn't read as shelves filled with dishes,' says Cathryn.

Try to strike a balance between your favorite kitchenware and collected pieces you want on display. 'The mix of functional and decorative pieces is what gives a hutch its charm and makes it feel like it has been collected over time rather than styled all at once.'

2. Display Special Pieces, Rather Than Kitchenware You Use Daily

The mistake a lot of people make when styling a hutch is filling it with the plates and bowls they use daily. But this approach leaves your hutch feeling empty most of the time, with awkward gaps that make it feel unfinished, so displaying unique and lesser-used pieces works best.

'I love using a kitchen hutch to display the pieces that feel a little more special: vintage crystal, heirloom china, pretty serving bowls, bar accessories, or linens you pull out when you're entertaining. I usually avoid styling it with everyday dishes that are constantly being used, because empty gaps in the shelves can make the whole display feel unfinished,' explains Cathryn.

But it's not just about ensuring the display always looks good. It's an opportunity to keep your special kitchenware somewhere you can see it every day, rather than being hidden away in a drawer. 'I encourage clients to choose unique and special items they love on display here. Items that spark stories and jog memories are firm favorites in my eyes,' Katy adds.

3. Pick a Subtle Color Scheme

If you're struggling to style your hutch in a way that feels effortless yet cohesive, opting for a subtle color scheme can help. 'Obviously, choosing colors that work together helps. I personally love yellows and blues together,' says interior designer Katy Cronk.

If you've chosen a traditional wooden hutch, the color scheme will apply to the items you choose to store here, but it can also incorporate the hutch itself for a more playful feel. In this design, Katy had painted the hutch a vibrant shade of yellow, pairing it with mainly blue-ware plates and servers, with a few cabbage-ware pieces. It feels bold and characterful but still with a sense of traditional style.

A hutch is the perfect piece to bring charm and interest to your space. It balances functional storage with space for decorative displays, exactly the look this year's trends are championing. Styling a hutch doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, the less perfect, the better, as Katy explains. 'I think it’s great when dressers don’t look too perfect; I love an informal, characterful dresser that invites questions and interest.'

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Utility carts have a function, but that often isn't balanced with form. Finding a movable, useful, chic-looking piece of storage is rare, but I was on the hunt for a buy that would add extra kitchen storage and look good while doing so. I was thinking bar cart meets a handy spot for my overflowing glasses collection to reside.

Enter IKEA's new PS Utility Cart – a stylish storage idea that's pretty and practical. Hailing from IKEA's newly released design-forward PS 2026 collection, this cart blends Scandinavian design principles of functionality and simplicity with aesthetics. And it can be used for many purposes, in any room – in a kitchen it can be a pantry on wheels or a drinks trolley filled with glasses and bottles, in a bedroom it can corral the clutter of wires from hair tools, in a bathroom it can add extra storage for products you want to keep within easy reach.

Rather than something we'd push to the side, hide in a closet, or keep out of sight, this utility cart is worthy of display, all thanks to its sleek round shape and soft beige color. And depending on how you use it, it can become the focal point of a room – a deserving focal point, at that.

Lots of reviewers rave about IKEA's Utility Cart, calling it 'practical', 'versatile', and a 'wonderful product'. 'The cart was easy to assemble and looks great,' one reviewer wrote. 'You can fit an incredible amount of stuff in it. The wheels roll smoothly, so it's really easy to push it back and forth.'

Because of the endless uses for this utility cart, I'm convinced that every home, apartment, or even dorm room can benefit from it. It can become a kitchen storage idea – perfect for holding spices, oil bottles, or dry goods. I'd even try it as a bathroom storage idea, too, filling its tiers with extra toilet paper, makeup tools, and other personal hygiene essentials. Beyond that, you could use it as a craft room organizer, extra storage for your home office, or even a stand for your indoor plants.

As an avid party host, I plan on using IKEA's Utility Cart as a makeshift bar cart in my apartment. See how I'd style it below.

How I'd Style IKEA's PS Utility Cart

Shop More Utility Carts

Though stylish utility carts are few and far between, I've managed to find three more that are equally as good looking (and just as practical) as IKEA's Utility Cart. Shop them, below.

Now you know: if your home needs more storage, you don't have to settle for something unattractive and overly utilitarian. Instead, you can get IKEA's Utility Cart, and reap the benefits of storage that doubles as a chic home furnishing.

And if you're looking for more clever storage carts for your home, check out this space-saving rolling cart – a pick that we think would work wonders in organizing a kitchen in style.

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While homes continue to get smarter as technology rapidly develops, the cost of keeping up can increase just as quickly. From whole smart home systems to speakers and plugs, these handy additions are designed to streamline your space, but often come at a premium price point.

Ready to counter these assumptions, introducing IKEA's new GRILLPLATS Plug with remote control. Compatible with any everyday, ordinary lamp or household appliance, this affordable smart plug (just $14.99) allows you to control your items from afar.

It's a budget-friendly way to set up a smart home, without having to replace your existing tech.

Smart home trends may come and go, but convenience is forever. Accordingly, the GRILLPLATS Plug, available with remote control at IKEA, allows you to turn any lamp or appliance on or off from afar, whether you're comfortable in bed, on the sofa, or simply sitting or standing at a distance.

As the kit comes pre-paired, it's also effortlessly quick and easy to set up: Simply plug your device in to the plug, pop a battery in the remote control (these are not included), and it's ready to use.

You can then connect up to 10 plugs to one remote control, proving it's a smart tech gadget that will transform your home, and even keep track of your power usage and adjust your daily routines to save energy and cut energy bills using the IKEA Home smart app.

As the plug uses the universal standard Matter, it can also be seamlessly used alongside other well-known systems, like Google, Apple, Amazon, and Samsung.

According to one five-star review, it's also a brilliant buy for cleverly cooling a home in summer, and, in particular, cooling a room with fans.

'Life-changing,' it reads. 'What a fantastic buy. On these horrible hot sticky nights in London, I no longer need to stumble out of bed to turn the fan on or off. This makes it much easier for me to get back to sleep again, so this small, cheap item is actually improving the quality of my life!'

Another, from Tumoyia, adds, 'Love this! I've used smart plugs before, and they always disconnect randomly. This is easy to set up, and the remote is perfect. I use it for my bedside fan.'

And while the GRILLPLATS Plug makes designing a home that stays cool effortless in spells of warm weather, it's also just as handy for turning on a lamp, heater, or even the television for cozy nights throughout fall and winter.

What to Shop

With a minimum order amount of $35 needed for at-home delivery from IKEA, you can either buy three GRILLPLATS Plugs at once for use all around your space, or shop from a selection of further smart home essentials and IKEA favorites below to boost your basket.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you're interested in the smart home features designers love, consider air purifiers, command centers, water-saving showerheads, smart thermostats, and video doorbells.

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For a brand with such a strong reputation for market-leading products, the R10 Pro feels like a chink in Dreame's armor.

When it comes to design, maneuverability, and dust, it's a capable machine with glimpses of greatness as one of the best vacuums. It's one of the lightest and easiest-to-use stick vacuums I've tested, effortlessly gliding across floors. And for such an affordable device, smart features, such as LED lights and a handy lock button that keeps the vacuum running without you having to press the trigger, elevate it closer to more expensive models.

However, when it comes to providing a thorough deep clean, I was disappointed with this cordless vacuum's battery life and ability to tackle large messes. To find out if the Dreame R10 Pro could be the right vacuum model for your home, read on to explore my in-depth review.

My One Minute Verdict

Dreame products so often punch above their weight in terms of price and value, but with the R10 Pro you sadly get what you pay for.

If you have a smaller home or are looking for one of the best vacuums for pet hair that's light and easy to manage day to day, it's not a bad price to pay. Even on the super-quiet, less-powerful Eco mode, it clears fine debris in a single pass, and its Turbo mode is great for getting pet hair out of carpet fibers.

Beyond those everyday tasks, however, its limitations become difficult to ignore. Although Dreame claims up to 65 minutes of runtime, I managed just 25 minutes during mixed-mode testing, and even the brief use of Turbo mode drains the battery quickly. Large debris pickup is inconsistent, often requiring multiple passes and further extending cleaning time.

The vacuum won't stand securely without its wall mount, the modest 0.6L dust cup fills quickly, and debris repeatedly became trapped between the tube and dust cup, occasionally blocking suction. During one test, the dust cup even released unexpectedly, emptying its contents back onto the floor.

For those looking for a cordless vacuum for a larger home and to be able to tackle big cleans, I would recommend exploring options like the Dreame R20, which pairs a 90-minute runtime with a touchscreen display that takes the guesswork out of battery and suction mode, or the Shark Stratos cordless, which handles mixed debris smarter and more consistently.

Dreame R10 Pro: Specifications

Dreame R10 Pro: Design and Features

The Dreame R10 Pro doesn't veer too far from what you'd expect from a standard cordless stick vacuum. Its main unit sits on the top of a metal tube that connects to one of the vacuum's floorheads and attachments, and a transparent dust cup runs down the body of the handheld unit, so you can see how full it is.

You power the vacuum on and off using the trigger button on the underside of the main unit, and switch between the Eco, Med and Turbo modes using a slider switch on the top. A lock button keeps the vacuum running continuously without having to press the trigger, which makes a real difference during longer cleaning sessions, and there's a small LED dot alongside this button that lets you see how much battery life you have at a glance. It's lacking a more detailed display, but at this price point, that's not a surprise.

What was a pleasant surprise, however, was how much the R10 Pro's matte black design with gold accents elevates it well above its price, making it look more expensive than it is. At 3.64 lbs (1.65 kg) for the main unit, it's also on the lighter side for a cordless vacuum without sacrificing too much power.

Rather than a single multi-surface head, the R10 Pro comes with two interchangeable floorheads. The multi-surface brush uses V-shaped bristles and a comb design to grab hair and direct it up the tube rather than letting it tangle around the roller. The soft roller floorhead is added as a dedicated hard floor option, with a roller that picks up fine dust without scattering it across the room. Both floorheads have built-in LED lights at the front to help you see dust and debris, especially under furniture and in darker corners.

Beyond the floorheads, the kit includes a motorized mini-brush for upholstery and furnishings, a wide combination tool that acts as both a dusting brush and a crevice tool, a bendable crevice nozzle for tight and hard-to-reach spaces, and a short extension tube – all of which click on and off at the center of the tube with a button press.

Filtration is then managed by a five-layer washable filter system that Dreame claims captures 99.9% of particles down to 0.3 microns. It's not officially certified as HEPA-grade, but it comes close.

Inside the box is a wall-mounted bracket that stores the vacuum in an upright position. This is a necessity because the vacuum can't free-stand on its own; the floorhead doesn't lock into position and has a tendency to roll away or fall over. You'll also need to install this bracket near a plug as the charging cable doesn't stretch very far. Once plugged in, it takes around 3.5 hours to charge, but you only get up to 65 minutes of battery life on Eco mode (and less than 15 minutes on Turbo).

What Is the Dreame R10 Pro Like to Use?

The R10 Pro is easy to pick up and get going – there's no complicated setup and swapping between attachments is quick enough. The lack of dedicated storage for these attachments is disappointing but expected at this price.

In general cleaning terms, the R10 Pro handled day-to-day messes well, picking up pet hair from hard floors and low-pile carpet without fuss. The soft roller floorhead is quiet and smooth on hard floors, with no sense that it's going to scratch or drag across anything delicate, and it handles everyday debris – crumbs, dust, the odd bit of dried mud – without much effort.

On carpet, the vacuum works harder, and you feel a bit more resistance in the push, but it picks up well, and the suction is good. The anti-tangle design of the multi-surface floorhead largely holds up in everyday use too.

I liked having the option of the two floorheads, but storing the spare is a pain, and I almost exclusively ended up using the multi-surface head because it did the job well enough to not have to switch.

In use, the vacuum is light enough to carry upstairs or use for long periods. It can feel a little unbalanced when you're pushing it round the home because it's quite top-heavy, but this isn't a dealbreaker, and you soon get used to it.

The lock button is also a benefit for long cleans. Taking away the need to keep your finger on the trigger makes it maneuverable enough to get into corners and along baseboards without constantly repositioning yourself, plus the low-profile floorhead gets under most furniture without having to tilt the vacuum at an awkward angle.

What's not a benefit for long cleans is the poor battery life. For a vacuum this affordable, I didn't expect industry-leading runtimes, but I do think being able to do a full pass of my house in one run shouldn't be too much to ask. Dreame claims Eco mode lasts 65 minutes, and that holds true; however, in reality, Eco mode isn't strong enough to make a dent in pet hair or deeply clean. This means you have to ramp the vacuum up to Turbo periodically, and in my tests, I got (at most) 25 minutes switching between the two. For most everyday tasks and quick cleans, this will be ample, but for anything deeper or longer, you'll need to revert to a wired vacuum alternative or wait for the R10 Pro to charge.

The LED lights in the floorheads turned out to be more useful than I thought. They pick out dust along baseboards and under the sofa that I would have otherwise missed, and I found myself cleaning more thoroughly because of them – going over areas I would have assumed were fine and finding they weren't.

On noise, the R10 Pro is quiet enough on Eco, at 62dB, for someone to work comfortably in the next room. Turbo steps up the noise to 71dB on average, but the pitch is low, which makes it more gentle on the ears than I'd expected.

Compared to other cordless sticks I've tested at this price, the R10 Pro is impressive on pet hair in Turbo mode; the quality of the LED lighting stands out.

Where it falls is the lack of a freestanding dock, disappointing runtime, and mixed results between Eco and Turbo modes. Also, during one clean, the dust cup just opened by itself, pouring 10 minutes of dust and dirt back onto my floor.

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

To test how the R10 Pro handles fine debris, I scattered half a cup of flour and sugar in roughly a 50/50 split across carpet, hardwood, and laminate, spreading it over a wide enough area to clearly see the vacuum's path with each pass.

Flour and sugar work well because they mimic the kind of fine debris that builds up on floors between cleans and is often harder to shift than larger pieces.

On carpet, the R10 Pro performed well, pulling the flour and sugar out of the pile without spreading it around. Most of the debris was gone in a single pass, with only a very light dusting of flour remaining in the deeper parts of the pile on the first run. A second pass cleared it completely.

Flour did tend to gather at the edges of the brushroll, but this can be easily cleared away, and it doesn't transfer back onto the floor as you move the vacuum around.

On hardwood, the flour, at times, had a tendency to get pushed slightly ahead of the floorhead on the first pass, but it was quickly cleared on a second pass.

The sugar cleared more cleanly, but getting into the cracks between floorboards took an extra pass with the floorhead angled slightly, and some flour settled into the joins and needed the crevice nozzle to finish the job properly.

On laminate, the results were similar to hardwood, though the smoother surface meant slightly less scattering on contact and the flour cleared more easily across open areas. The edges of the room and the join between the floor and baseboard needed a second pass, but the overall result was clean without needing to change suction mode or switch attachments for the bulk of the test.

Test 2: Pantry

For the pantry test, I scattered half a cup of cereal and red lentils across carpet, hardwood, and laminate. Cereal and lentils represent the kind of debris that ends up on floors every day. For the cereal, we use off-brand Cheerios – which stand in for larger pieces of debris like crumbs and dry food, while the lentils are smaller and have a slightly tacky texture.

On carpet, the R10 Pro picked up the lentils confidently and without flinging pieces around, clearing most of it in a single pass. The cereal took a lot more work. The floorhead largely pushed them or sent them flying around rather than sucking them up. I had to physically lift the floorhead and make multiple passes over each one to remove them, or I had to resort to an attachment.

On hardwood, there was some scattering of the lentils on the first pass, but a second pass over the same area dealt with them, and on laminate, performance was similar to hardwood. The lentils again needed two passes in places, and there was a little scattering on contact, but nothing that required lifting and dropping the vacuum to dislodge pieces or any heavy-handed maneuvering.

The cereal performance proved even worse on hard floors. I was left with just piles of cereal in corners or along the edges, and those that did get sucked in ended up clogging the unit. I had to use water to soften the blockage and then clear it with the end of a spoon, which is less than ideal.

Test 3: Pet Hair

To test the R10 Pro on pet (and human) hair, I ran it across both carpet and hard floors after a typical day with my dog Maisie, without pre-cleaning either surface first.

On hard floors, the R10 Pro handled Maisie's hair well, pulling it in cleanly without spreading it around or leaving trails at the edges of the floorhead. The comb teeth design came into its own here – hair moved through the roller and into the dust cup without bunching. After a full pass, there was little left behind, and what remained was easy enough to catch on a second run. On carpet, the vacuum lifted most of the surface hair well, but the deeper the pile, the more effort was needed.

I did notice on one of Maisie's heavy shedding days, which are common when the weather is hot, that some of her hairs caught at the edges of the roller and had to be removed by hand, so you'll want to check it periodically rather than assuming it's clear.

My hair told a similar story. Longer strands cleared well on hard floors and low-pile carpet, though on thicker carpet strands occasionally needed a second pass to come up fully. The dust cup filled noticeably faster on heavy hair days, which is worth bearing in mind if you have multiple pets or a large home – the 0.6L capacity is on the smaller side, and you may find yourself emptying it mid-clean.

Test 4: Attachments

Swapping between attachments is easy on the R10 Pro. The button release at the collar joint is easy to find and operate with one hand, and nothing feels flimsy or loose once clicked into place.

The motorized mini-brush got the most use outside of the main floorheads. On the sofa, it lifted Maisie's hair from the fabric better than the main floorhead, and on cushions and upholstered chairs it did a thorough job without being rough on the material. The wide combination tool – which flips between a dusting brush and a crevice mode – is versatile enough for lots of different tasks and I used it regularly on baseboards, shelves and around the edges of radiators. It isn't as precise as a dedicated crevice tool, but it covers a lot of ground without needing to swap again.

For the crevice attachment, I sprinkled flour and sugar along the base of a wall, pressing some of it into the join between the floor and the skirting board. The nozzle cleared both the flour and the sugar cleanly in a single pass without spreading the debris outward.

The extension tube adds useful reach for high shelves and ceiling corners but feels unnecessary. The existing tube length covers most situations without it. Of all the attachments, it was the one I put back in the box most quickly and didn't miss.

Dreame R10 Pro Name: Setup and Maintenance

The R10 Pro arrives in a large, fairly hefty box, but unboxing it is straightforward.

The packaging is mostly cardboard with some paper wrapping around the individual components, and little unnecessary plastic. Everything is organized into separate cardboard compartments inside, so nothing is loose or rattling around, and the user manual sits on top so it's the first thing you see when you open it.

The box contains:

• Main handheld unit
• Metal wand
• Multi-surface floorhead
• Soft roller floorhead
• Motorized mini-brush
• Wide combination tool
• Bendable crevice nozzle
• Extension tube
• Wall-mounted storage bracket
• Charging cable and adapter
• User manual

That's a generous kit for this price.

Before you can use the R10 Pro, you'll need to charge it fully, but to do so you'll likely have to install the wall bracket first. This isn't 100% necessary, but the vacuum won't stand by itself, and you'll have to do it eventually anyway. Slotting it into the wall bracket and plugging in the cable takes seconds, and from flat it took around 3 hours to reach full charge – roughly in line with the 3.5 hours quoted by Dreame. There's no assembly required beyond attaching your chosen floorhead, which clicks into place with a single push.

Day-to-day vacuum maintenance is simple too (as long as you don't vacuum up lots of large debris that can block the unit). The dust cup empties with a single button press and the bin itself is easy to rinse out when needed. I didn't think having such an easy release system would impress me so much, but seeing as I always struggle with the systems on Dyson vacuums, this mattered more than I thought. The filter is removable and fully washable – Dreame recommends cleaning it every month or so depending on use – and it's a simple process of rinsing it under cold water, leaving it to dry for 24 hours, and clicking it back in.

The brushroll on the multi-surface floorhead can be removed for cleaning too, and the soft roller floorhead pulls apart easily enough to clear any debris that's worked its way inside. None of it requires tools or any particular effort, and keeping on top of it takes only a few minutes.

How Does the Dreame R10 Compare?

The R10 Pro sits in the middle of Dreame's R-series lineup, above the Dreame R10 and the Dreame R20. If you mainly clean hard floors and don't need the soft roller, the R10 undercuts the Pro on price and covers the basics, but given that the battery life complaints that dog the R10 Pro apply here too, and you lose the soft roller in the bargain, the Pro is the better buy if the price gap is small.

Dreame R20 is $50 / £50 more, but for that extra money you get 190 AW of suction, intelligent dirt detection that automatically adjusts power based on the floor type and debris, a touch screen display, and 90 minutes of runtime.

Against the competition, the Shark Stratos cordless ($499.99 / £399.99) is a significant step up in price but brings Clean Sense IQ technology that senses dirt and adjusts suction automatically, more reliable large debris pickup, and a MultiFLEX wand that folds flat for freestanding storage. It also often sells for much less than its RRP, and if you can get it on sale, it's a much stronger investment. At the other end, the Bissell CleanView XR Pet ($119.99 / £99.99) is cheaper than the R10 Pro and covers the essentials for pet owners and smaller homes, even if it lacks the LED lighting and the soft roller floorhead.

How We Test Vacuums

At Homes & Gardens, we take a detailed and standardized approach to how we test vacuums.

This includes vacuuming set amounts of fine and large debris on carpet, linoleum and hardwood floors to check cleaning performance across different types and surfaces. We test the anti-tangle performance and pet hair pickup as well as using each vacuum around the home to check weight, maneuverability, battery life, dustbin emptying, noise levels, and anything else you might need to consider before buying. Every factor is then weighed against the price when we give it our final mark.

I tested the Dreame R10 Pro for four weeks in my home, where I have two children and a dog. I ran it across carpet, laminate and hardwood floors, tested its noise levels using the DecibelX app and checked how easy it was to use and how well it fit into my life.

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The laundry room is oftentimes the hardest-working space in any home. All of that usage − from sorting to washing and drying − can just as often leave it disorganized and difficult to manage.

As with any space around a house, the first and easiest step towards streamlining a small laundry room starts with storage, particularly versatile solutions that solve two problems at once: Just like this 2-in-1 Trash Bag Holder & Laundry Pods Container, available at Amazon.

With space for trash bags and over 100 dishwasher pods, and a space-saving design to fit perfectly under standard sinks, it's undoubtedly one of the best things organized people should have in their laundry rooms − and for good reason.

While any laundry room can, and often does, end up in disarray, small spaces suffer this fate more than most. With a compact footprint also tends to come a distinct lack of storage space, which is why using vertical storage is a clever way to maximize space in a small laundry room.

And, when it comes to organizing a laundry room, the 2-in-1 Trash Bag Holder & Laundry Pods Container, available at Amazon, provides ample storage while taking up virtually no precious countertop space.

With two sections, one for holding washing pods and one for trash bags, and a hidden tray between for sponges or other cleaning accessories, the holder can be used either split or combined. Units can then be stacked upwards or placed side-by-side for flexible storage to perfectly suit your space, whether used under a sink, in a cabinet, or out on a countertop.

There's no need to worry about the effects of humidity, either − the holder is built to withstand humid environments without any wear or warping, and is capable of holding over 100 laundry pods (or dishwasher pods if you choose to use it in your kitchen instead) and a roll of 13, 20, 30, or 33-gallon trash bags.

What Shoppers Say

Boasting an overall rating of 4.7 out of five stars, the 2-in-1 Trash Bag Holder & Laundry Pods Container, available at Amazon, is a popular purchase among shoppers.

For example, Ronald calls it a 'Convenient, great space saver,' while another verified review praises that it 'Makes access to trash bags and detergent easier.'

'I like the simplicity of these storage containers,' they add. 'Easy access to trash bags and dishwasher detergent. Works perfectly.'

So, hile there are a number of things to get rid of in a messy laundry room, this is undoubtedly a worthy addition, and an easy way to avoid any laundry room organizing mistakes once and for all.

What to Shop

Interested in shopping for more laundry accessories? Browse a selection of our favorites below, each of which will elevate your routine and make laundry day more of a breeze than a chore.

All prices were correct at the time of publication

These handy laundry hacks are guaranteed to save you time and effort when it comes to laundry day.

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A well-organized refrigerator can make everyday life feel instantly easier, and ALDI’s Crofton Clear Trays are an affordable way to bring order to one of the busiest spaces in the home. Designed to neatly group together everything from snacks and condiments to produce and meal prep essentials, these transparent organizers make it easier to see what you have, reduce clutter, and keep shelves looking beautifully streamlined.

Available in three practical sizes – small, large, and a drinks can size – the Crofton Clear Trays can be mixed and matched to suit different kitchen storage needs. The small tray is ideal for jars, sauces, yogurt, and smaller ingredients, while the large option is perfect for bigger items or family-sized essentials. The drinks can size is especially useful for keeping beverages neatly stacked and easy to grab, helping prevent cans from rolling around or taking over valuable refrigerator space.

This makes them a smart addition to any fridge organization system, helping create clear zones and making it easier to keep track of groceries. I already use similar organizers in my own refrigerator – the Utopia Home Fridge & Refrigerator Organizer Bins from Amazon – and they have made a noticeable difference in keeping everyday essentials neatly grouped and easy to access. ALDI’s Crofton trays offer a similar streamlined look, with the added appeal of being an affordable in-store find.

But while these trays are a smart solution for refrigerator organization, their usefulness extends far beyond the kitchen. The clear design and streamlined shape mean they can be used throughout the home wherever you need a little extra order.

A Simple Way To Create a More Organized Refrigerator

The refrigerator is often one of the most overlooked areas when it comes to organization. Unlike a pantry, where items can be arranged neatly on shelves, fridge contents tend to shift around as groceries are added and removed. Clear trays help create designated zones, making it easier to find what you need and keep similar items together.

Try using one tray for breakfast essentials such as yogurt, spreads, and fruit, another for sauces and condiments, or a larger tray for meal prep containers. Because the trays are transparent, they keep the refrigerator feeling open and uncluttered rather than visually overwhelming.

For busy American households, they can also be a helpful way to organize lunchbox ingredients, kids’ snacks, grab-and-go breakfasts, or leftovers that might otherwise get pushed to the back of the fridge.

More Than a Refrigerator Organizer

The beauty of these trays is that they are not limited to cold storage. Their understated acrylic look makes them a practical addition to almost any room.

In the pantry, they can corral baking supplies, spices, oils, or snacks. In the bathroom, they create a stylish home for skincare, toiletries, or cleaning products. They can also be used on a coffee station to organize spices, tea bags, and accessories, or on a desk to keep stationery and small essentials contained.

Because they are clear, they work with every decorating style – from modern and minimalist to classic and traditional – allowing the items inside to remain the focus.

Shop Alternative Fridge Organizers

If you don’t live near an ALDI – or you simply prefer to shop elsewhere – finding the perfect fridge organizers can feel like a challenge. I’ve spent countless hours testing and researching ways to keep my fridge neat, functional, and easy to navigate. Organization is something I take pride in, and the organizers below are either pieces I already use in my own home or ones at the top of my wish list for my next fridge refresh.

Whether you’re tackling a cluttered refrigerator, creating more functional pantry storage ideas, or simply looking for attractive ways to organize everyday items, these versatile trays offer an easy and affordable solution. Sometimes the most effective organizing upgrades are the simplest – and this budget-friendly find is one that can help make every room feel a little more considered.

No matter the size of your kitchen, cluttered countertops can quickly make the space feel chaotic – far from the calm, functional environment you want for cooking and hosting. One of the biggest offenders? Messy appliance cords, which can instantly make even a beautifully designed kitchen feel untidy.

While the obvious solution is to store appliances away to organize a kitchen, that isn't always practical for everyday essentials or smaller kitchens with limited storage.

These stick-on cord organizers from Amazon are the perfect solution, keeping loose cables neatly contained for a cleaner worktop, without sacrificing convenience.

Targeting cables is one of the easiest ways to reduce visual clutter in a kitchen and, in turn, make a kitchen look more expensive.

'I always say, nothing ruins the illusion of a beautifully styled room faster than a tangled mess of tech cords,' shares Jodi Koch, CEO and Owner of Elizabeth Erin Designs. 'If there's a tangled mess of wires, that's all people are going to notice.'

While there are several ways to hide cords on kitchen counters, none are as effective as tackling the mess at the root. The stick-on cord organizers adhere to the back of your appliance – be it the best non-toxic air fryer or the best stand mixer – allowing for the unused section of the cord to be wrapped up out of the way. The wide design of the cable tidies from Amazon accommodates thick cords without bending the wire too severely, protecting it from damage, too.

They are not limited to kitchen appliances, either. They are perfect for organizing cables around media units, in home offices, or beside the bed to reduce visual clutter in a bedroom and promote better sleep.

What Else to Shop

As a cookware and appliance editor with a tiny kitchen, I understand how difficult it can be to keep work surfaces clear. To help you organize kitchen countertops, I have rounded up a selection of the prettiest and most practical kitchen organizers to help restore order to your home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Of course, a large part of elevating your kitchen comes from the overall design. With that in mind, consider the colors to make your kitchen look more expensive, whether you are redecorating or choosing your next appliance.

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In the heat of summer, breathable bedding offers much-needed respite from blistering temperatures. Much like adding a fan or opening a window, it's a low-effort, welcome way to keep comfortable.

Soft, breathable, and cooling − Brooklinen's Dreamweave Waffle Bed Blanket is the perfect swap for your sleep space this season. Made of 100 per cent Turkish cotton for optimal thermoregulation, it offers an airy, lightweight texture that looks just as good as it feels.

It's the ideal fix for keeping a bed cool in summer, without investing in expensive air conditioning.

While the current heat dome that much of the US is experiencing means it's far too hot for a comforter, let alone a heat-trapping synthetic polyester type, most people struggle to sleep with no cover at all. Instead, lightweight swaps like the Dreamweave Waffle Bed Blanket, available at Brooklinen, offer a little weight while regulating your temperature to keep you comfortable all night long. Made of airy Turkish cotton, it's summer's answer to sleeping better.

For that reason, it's no surprise that, as shopper J details alongside their five-star review, they 'Liked it so much [they] bought another.'

'I really like this waffle blanket,' they say. 'I sleep hot and just want a light, breathable blanket at night, and this fits the bill. It is much better than the bamboo blanket I was using previously.

'Also, it is oversized for a queen bed and covers my whole mattress and hangs nearly to the floor, while I've noticed that most blankets from other brands barely cover the mattress.'

It's also effortlessly easy to wash, dry, and care for this blanket, which is all the more important in the summer months, when bedding needs to be washed on a frequent basis to ensure a sanitized sleep space. Simply machine wash cold and tumble dry low.

Another five-star reviewer, Pency, names it the 'best lightweight blanket for the summertime,' adding, 'As a loyal Brooklinen customer, and living in south Louisiana, it was time for me to switch to the linen sheets along with a lightweight blanket.

'This is absolutely perfect and [I] would highly recommend [it] for those living in a warmer climate.'

Then, come fall and winter, use it as a lightweight layer to keep warm while you sleep with the hotel method bedding layering trick.

Effortlessly versatile, it's a worthy year-round addition for any cozy, comfortable bed space.

What to Shop

Interested in shopping for more pieces to layer your bed this summer? I've handpicked my Sleep Editor-approved favorites below, from cooling linen sheets to toppers and cushions.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

These summer bedroom ideas are simple ways to switch up your space − from using lighter, brighter colors to including natural materials − for the sunnier seasons.

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My kitchen is the most humid room in my home, which can make keeping food and snacks fresh a constant challenge. So, airtight containers aren't just an aesthetic choice for me − they're essential for protecting ingredients and reducing waste.

With the popularity of pantry restocks, however, these food storage sets have become notoriously expensive. That’s why the affordable IKEA KORALLVIPPA Food Storage Containers immediately caught my attention.

The set includes six airtight containers, ideal for storing everything from cereals and dried pantry goods to snacks. They help protect food from humidity and pests while keeping cupboards organized. At under $25 for the complete set, they are also one of the most budget-friendly sets I have ever seen.

Airtight kitchen storage is one of the best solutions for most pantry staples, aside from fresh produce that needs airflow. Sealed containers prevent air exchange, helping prevent ingredients from going stale and reducing spoilage.

While many storage jars rely on a simple seal around the rim to prevent leaks, the IKEA KORALLVIPPA Food Storage Containers use a silicone rubber gasket designed to create a much tighter seal. The vacuum-like closure is so effective that the lids include valves to release pressure before opening.

By limiting air exposure, these containers help preserve aromas, flavors, and freshness for longer, making them a smart way to reduce waste at home while organizing a pantry.

The containers are made out of standard plastic, which I would typically avoid in a kitchen; however, as they will never be heated up, there is very minimal risk of contamination, meaning they will not hamper your efforts to create a non-toxic home. In fact, the lightweight plastic makes them easier to use, with less strain on your wrists when lifting them from shelves and pouring than if they were glass. They are still dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, just without the added break risk.

Shoppers love them too, with Laura sharing in their five-star review, 'These containers are excellent for storing dry goods in our cabinets. The set looks good together, saves space, and we love that we can easily see just how much product is in each jar...makes it easier to know when a restock is needed. Also, products seem to stay fresh longer in these jars than they did in the original packaging from the store.'

Others mentioned just how air-tight the containers are, and how perfectly they fit on shelves to make storage simple. For the price, you cannot go wrong.

What Else to Shop

Looking for other smart lasting storage solutions to keep food fresh? I have selected some of my favorites to help you prevent waste and keep your kitchen neat.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to cut down on food waste? Check out these surprising foods to store in the refrigerator to prolong their life.

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While I do love burning candles all year round, something about a flickering flame in the middle of summer − dinner parties aside − just doesn't feel quite right.

So, in spells of warm weather, it's richly-scented incense sticks I reach for instead. A low-maintenance, effortless way to fill my entire space with fragrance at an affordable price, this 2-in-1 Incense Holder, available at Amazon, adds a touch of elegance to any mantelpiece or nightstand, while collecting ash as it falls.

Combined with your favorite scents, it's the best home fragrance fix to see out the rest of summer.

Burning incense is one of my very favorite quick ways to make a home smell nice. Not only does it fill a space fast, but it's also a laidback method that's perfectly suited to long, breezy summer days and relaxed evenings.

While you can use a flat, plain incense holder (and even use a fresh orange), the 2-in-1 Incense Holder, available at Amazon, elevates the experience while combining style and function.

With an antique-look wooden base that's filled with charm, it features two glass cups: One for storing incense sticks − my favorite are the Satya Incense Sticks, available at Amazon − and one for catching ash as it falls from lit sticks held in the secure gold crocodile clip above.

The glass can then be conveniently emptied and cleaned, for a clean and controlled burning experience that won't leave your countertops burned, stained, or smudged with soot and ash.

As Kimberley puts it, alongside a five-star review, this incense holder and burner is where 'decor meets function.' 'Absolutely love this incense burner,' they say. 'It holds multiple sticks. The clip is sturdy and [I] love that the ashes fall right into the glass cup for easy clean up.

'The combo of wood, metal, and glass makes this fit into any decor. Great cost for a great designed product.'

Another review, from JJ, adds, 'It's adorable and really great at controlling ash dropping off. Really, the best incense holder idea ever! I have the incense handy, plus I can keep the lighter with it.

'The clip holds the incense perfectly over the container for the ash. Clean-up is as easy as de-clamp[ing] and dump[ing] the container. A quick rinse and it's good to go again.

'It fits our home well, and I'm very happy with how easy it is to use. My mood is always better with some incense either going or recently burned, so this has been a bit of a game changer for me.'

From lifting your space during the day to pairing perfectly with some afternoon meditation and evening scenting, the 2-in-1 Incense Holder, available at Amazon, makes the ritual as simple as possible.

More to Shop

From the lighter to the holder, burning incense is an indulgent yet simple way to scent your space and bring a moment of calm. Below, you can shop everything you need.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you're interested in more ways to make a house smell nice without burning candles, try a summer simmer pot recipe, best reed diffusers, or fresh eucalyptus.

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After a few weeks of testing, the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine has become a staple on my kitchen counter. This compact, convenient all-in-one brewer delivered brilliant espresso without the guesswork, offering the cafe experience in the comfort of my own home.

With a built-in conical burr grinder and hands-free milk frothing, it offers everything you need for barista-style drinks without the training.

That said, there were a few small issues that kept it from five stars, but I am being extremely picky. This is how I got on with the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine during testing, and why I still think it is one of the best espresso machines money can buy.

Product Specifications: Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine

Design and First Impressions

The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine arrived well boxed, in mostly sturdy cardboard packaging, with some fabric bags to protect the machine from scratches, and the signature Ninja stickers that held removeable components in place and offered quick tips for easy use. These were mostly easy to remove, but as has been the case with other Ninja products I have unboxed, some leave sticky residue behind. Luckily, we have some great tips for removing stickers if you struggle.

The machine was not incredibly heavy, weighing a little under 19 lbs, with the fabric bag making it easy to lift from the tight cardboard frame to my counter.

The machine comes with everything you need to get started, with a quick start guide and recipe guide, portafilter (with single and double shot baskets), stainless steel milk jug, tamper and funnel, and a complete cleaning kit with descaling solution and water hardness testing strips. Everything felt weighty − a good initial sign of quality.

Brewing Performance and Set Up

Before using the coffee machine, you need to complete some setup steps. Luckily, these are all easy to do.

Beyond cleaning removable components with soapy water to remove lingering factory debris, you need to soak and insert the water filter and perform a water hardness test.

The water filter is soaked in plain water for several minutes, which I did in a clean pitcher with a heavy spoon to hold it down as it tended to float. You finish this step by rinsing it under running water for 60 seconds before fitting it into the reservoir using the included casing, which features a handy dial to set a reminder for when you need to replace it. It's a small detail, but one I appreciated.

The machine also comes with water hardness test strips, making setup refreshingly straightforward. Simply dip a strip into a cup of your tap water, leave it on a flat surface for a few minutes, and compare the resulting color with the included guide.

You can then enter your water hardness into the machine during the initial setup. This allows it to optimize brewing performance and tailor its descaling schedule, helping to improve flavor while reducing limescale buildup over time.

The final step is to run one plain water cycle through your machine to flush out the components. I put the empty portafilter in place, selected the largest serving size with a large mug beneath the spout, and pressed brew. This water was then discarded.

With this complete, you are ready to brew.

Grinding Beans

The first step to making coffee with the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus is grinding your beans. The top hopper can hold up to 250 grams of fresh beans, and has an airtight lid to keep them fresh between brews.

What I loved about this machine is that it weighs your portafilter and decides the best grind size for your coffee, depending on your selected brew type, taking away any guesswork.

The process is remarkably simple. After selecting your brew type from espresso, iced, classic (drip), or rich, and attaching the dosing funnel to the portafilter, place it into the grinding cradle. On the first press of the grind button, the machine weighs the portafilter and automatically calculates the ideal dose and grind size based on your chosen drink and shot size.

It then displays a recommended grind setting on the LED screen. Simply adjust the grinder dial on the left-hand side of the machine to match the suggested number, press the grind button again, and the machine dispenses the correct amount of coffee. It takes the guesswork out of dialing in your espresso, making the process quick and approachable for beginners.

There was one instance where the machine ran out of beans mid-grinding. An orange warning light came on with a beep, so I simply added more and pressed the grind button again, allowing it to complete the programme without fuss.

Tamping is also simple. You leave the funnel attached and press the tamper down until it is flush with the top edge. These are then removed from the filter (and can be stored in a handy recess on the top of the machine).

The grinder grinds consistently, but suffers from retention. After grinding, I pushed the coffee machine backwards on my counter to sit more neatly in the corner, and the vibrations shook a significant amount of grounds out of place, falling onto the drip tray. It also dropped some grounds each time the portafilter was placed into the cradle. It has the potential to be very messy if you need to pull it out to use it each time.

Brewing Coffee

Brewing the coffee is just as simple. The portafilter slots into position as it would on any other coffee machine, lining the dot up with the dot on the machine and turning until the dot is in line with the head of the arrow on the machine. I will note that the machine needs to be held still when you do this, as its smaller size means that it is not quite heavy enough to weigh it down, and it can slide along your counter as you twist it into position.

With a mug beneath the spout, you press the brew button and let it do its thing. This process is the same no matter which brew type you selected before grinding.

I am happy to report that this process is relatively quiet, so much so that when my partner woke up early for work and made his morning coffee, it never disturbed me sleeping upstairs (and our house is on the smaller side, so noise travels). It is quick, too.

The plain hot water setting is a nice touch, but it can splutter in use, splashing coffee onto the stainless steel backsplash, which needs wiping down after. A dial on the right-hand side of the machine switches the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus to hot water only, allowing you to make an Americano drink without needing to boil your kettle. This water comes from a separate spout on the left side of the cup, and tends to splutter and flow unevenly during dispensing. On a few occasions, this splashed water over the edge of the mug onto the counter.

When the water neared the top of our mugs, we often had to stop the hot water cycle early, too, to avoid overflowing.

Beyond that, the coffee it brewed was excellent, with a rich, creamy crema on top of each shot. With our choice of quality, locally roasted beans, my partner hailed it as good as, if not better than, a coffee shop.

I will note that, as the coffee maker is designed to be compact, it does come at the cost of a small water reservoir. Four double shots and three water top-ups using the hot water setting drained it from max fill to below minimum (three Americanos and a flat white). The tank can be removed for refilling, but I found it easier to use a large jug to fill it in situ.

There was one instance when using the hot water function, in which the water dropped below the minimum line mid-brew. The machine seemed to panic at this, and made a loud buzzing noise as it continued to try and draw water it could not find. I stopped the programme manually, and added more water to the tank, and this did not happen again. But it suggests you need to double-check the tank before you press start, as it might not stop to warn you as it does when the beans run low.

Frothing Milk

I have never owned a milk frother before, which is what sets home coffee apart from a quality café. The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus, however, comes with a built-in hands-free milk frother that can steam and froth both dairy and plant-based milks.

As with the rest of the machine, I found this step simple. The included recipe book comes with a general suggestion for the amount of milk you need to create a standard cappuccino, flat white, and latte, so I followed their suggestions.

One small complaint is that the ml recommendations in the guide are not marked in the stainless steel milk jug they included. For a cappuccino, for example, they suggest 150 ml of milk; the jugs etched measurements skip this increment, so it takes a little guesswork. It is not the end of the world, but it does feel like an overlooked detail.

The milk jug is then placed beneath the steaming wand, the desired foam thickness selected with the dial, and the button pressed to begin. I used dairy-based semi-skimmed milk and found that it froths quickly without spitting, and pours wonderfully.

One frothed, you wipe down the wand with a damp cloth and flick it back into its downwards-facing position, where it will automatically purge. There is a drip hole beneath to catch this water for easy clean up.

Be aware when steaming milk after brewing coffee that the handle needs to point outwards, else coffee will drip down onto it.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Whenever I get a new appliance, I dread the cleaning process. Luckily, Ninja has made cleaning the coffee maker a breeze.

The drip tray beneath the appliance can be slid out for easy emptying and cleaning, dissembling into three layers for hand washing with soap and warm water. The portafilter is also hand-washable, and is easy to empty with a firm tap against the edge of a trash can.

The tray needs emptying regularly, I discovered. Luckily, there is an orange floating indicator that will rise when it is getting too full. I suggest emptying it before it reaches the top, as you risk spilling the water as you move to your sink otherwise.

The machine also comes with a long-handled brush for cleaning out the grinder and tamper storage well, as well as some descaling tablets and solution for deep cleaning of internal parts. The conical burr grinder also comes apart for easier cleaning.

What Shoppers Say

The general consensus amongst other uses is overwhelmingly positive, with reviews (at the time of writing) on the SharkNinja site setting the machine at 4.8 stars out of 5.

Shoppers comment on how easy it is to use, the compact size, and the incorporated steamer and grinder, which streamline the process.

One commented in their five-star review, 'I have never had so much fun playing barista in my home using the Ninja Luxe Cafe Mini Espresso Machine. This was easy to set up, and the instructions for every step of making so many different coffee House classics were so simple. I love that this machine includes a bean grinder as well as the full press setup for making your espresso or coffee.'

There is one limited one-star review which claims 'The coffee was burnt tasting and underachieved,' however, this is a single outlier, and hardly detailed. I take this as an exception.

We previously reviewed the Cafe Mini's larger predecessor, the Ninja Luxe Cafe Pro, and had a similarly wonderful experience. After her review, Lydia Hayman marked the larger machine down only for the sheer size of the appliance, meaning that this mini version is a welcome addition to the lineup for us. It carries with it all of the wonderful features and quality brewing of the previous machine, so which you pick will depend only on the amount of counter space you have available.

Should You Buy The Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine?

All in all, I would highly recommend the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Plus Espresso Machine. It is a fantastic, small-space-friendly coffee machine that is largely automated but still fun to use.

It brews wonderful barista-quality coffee, albeit with a little bit of mess, and has greatly improved our home coffees. In fact, I have lost count of how many times my coffee-obsessed partner uttered that he was excited to use his coffee machine in the morning as he got into bed each evening. He's been so excited to show it off to guests, too.

This is perfectly suited to people who love quality coffee from fresh beans, who want some of that authentic espresso experience at home without the faff of weighing their own and calculating the right pressure. You do not need any barista training or even a deep understanding of coffee to master this machine.

It is especially useful for those who have a small kitchen like me, who struggle to keep counters clear of everyday clutter without another appliance getting in the way.

That said, there is a lack of transparency about the materials used in the inner brew path, and I cannot be sure whether it is one of the best non-toxic coffee makers or not. If you are very health-conscious, it might be worth some extra digging.

How We Test Coffee Makers

At Homes & Gardens, we have a rigorous testing process for all of our coffee makers. This enables us to score coffee makers both individually and against other models on the market.

Once we have researched the best coffee makers on the market, we test at home, as it means we can use the appliance in our regular routines. This helps me uncover advantages (or most likely, pain points) I would never discover with a one-hour session in the test kitchen.

After unboxing, we'll let you know whether we get any extra accessories and what our first impressions are of the coffee maker. Here's where we'll talk about the size, style, build quality, and anything else that jumps out at us aesthetically.

Next, we'll get brewing. We make notes on how easy the coffee maker is to set up and start using. After each brew, we assess the flavor of each cup, the range of the machine, how long it keeps coffee warm for, the ease of cleaning, and the all-important price. Where applicable, we experiment with special features, such as integrated grinders and milk frothers.

Once we are happy that we've tested everything that we can, we'll take a step back and think about how the coffee maker compares to other models. We'll read through online reviews to get a sense of what customers are saying and then, bringing all that information together, our team will let you know who we think it suits and whether it's good value for money. As you can see, we leave no stone unturned.

If you’re interested and want to find out more, you can read all about the process in our how we test coffee makers page.

What Else to Shop

From cleaning essentials to countertop organizers, I have rounded up everything you need to flesh out your new home coffee station.

All prices correct at time of publication.

No matter how good your coffee machine is, the bean you pick will have a huge impact on the final taste of your coffee. We have a whole guide dedicated to choosing coffee beans to help find the best roast for you.

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During the height of summer, your bedroom is likely the place you feel the heat the most. It's a space where you rest, relax, and recuperate, but soaring temperatures can leave it feeling less soothing and more unpleasant.

While you can't control the weather, there are a few things you can change − namely, eliminating the unexpected things in your sleep space that are serving to make it feel hotter.

From memory foam mattresses to electronics and chargers, these are the culprits thwarting your efforts to keep a bed cool, and the HVAC expert tips to fix them.

1. Heavy Bedding Traps Heat

Beginning with the most obvious, anything that keeps you warm while you sleep will undoubtedly make a bedroom feel hotter during a heatwave.

'One of the biggest mistakes I see is people keeping the same bedding year-round,' shares Josh Mitchell, HVAC Expert and Founder of AirConditionerLab. 'Thick comforters and heavy blankets trap body heat while you sleep, making it much harder for your body to cool itself naturally. Even if the room temperature is comfortable, you'll still feel warmer because that heat stays around you.

'During hot weather, I recommend switching to lightweight cotton or linen sheets and storing the heavier bedding until temperatures cool down.'

Any option from our best cooling sheets or best Amazon cooling sheets guides, such as the Bedsure Cooling Sheets, available at Amazon, will make the perfect switch.

'These materials allow heat and moisture to escape more easily, helping you stay cooler overnight,' adds Ross Palfrey, Founder and owner of Harry's Home Comfort.

2. Memory Foam Mattresses Inhibit Airflow

In that same vein, memory foam may be particularly effective at relieving pressure, says Josh, but it's also known for holding onto body heat − one of the main reasons you may find yourself struggling to cool down a memory foam mattress.

'Traditional memory foam doesn't allow as much airflow as innerspring or hybrid mattresses, so the heat your body produces stays trapped near the surface,' he warns. 'If replacing the mattress isn't an option, a breathable mattress topper or cooling mattress protector can help improve airflow and reduce heat buildup overnight.'

For example, our top-rated cooling mattress topper is the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper.

3. Electronics and Chargers Produce Heat

Your bedroom may be a space where you work, watch television, and even eat (though it shouldn't be), as well as sleep, but warns Ryan Gaddis, Owner of Ryan's AC & Heating, computers, phone chargers, small TVs, and mini room refrigerators all consume electricity and generate heat.

'Make it a heatwave habit to turn off, unplug, or change devices to their sleep setting, where possible,' he advises.

You may also choose to set up a charging station, such as the Belkin Charging Station, available at Amazon, elsewhere. You should, however, still unplug it overnight to avoid a fire risk.

4. Poor Airflow Around the Bed Prevents Cool Air Circulating

'I've visited homes where the air conditioner was working properly, but the bed was pushed into a corner with heavy furniture blocking the nearest supply vent,' warns Josh. 'Cool air couldn't circulate around the room, so the sleeping area stayed much warmer than the thermostat [available at Walmart] reading suggested.

'Keeping vents open, moving furniture away from them, and allowing air to flow freely can make a noticeable difference,' and make any efforts to cool a room with fans far more effective, too.

5. Exposed Windows Allow Sunlight to Heat Your Bedroom

Sunlight streaming through your windows is one of the most beautiful parts of summer. But, warns Ryan, it also serves to heat your bedroom's interior and everything in it − from furniture to floors and walls − through a process called solar heat gain.

'These items, in turn, release the heat, making the room even hotter,' he explains. 'In a heat wave, close window shades, curtains, or shutters to block sunlight. And if there's an awning outside your bedroom window, make sure it's lowered or covering the window.'

If you have windows without any summer window treatments, the light-filtering RINGBLOMMA Roman Blind, available at IKEA, is an affordable option that looks far more high-end than it is.

'Preventing the heat from entering is much easier than asking the air conditioner to remove it later,' adds Josh.

6. Your Ceiling Fan May Be Running the Wrong Way

Your ceiling fan may be running all day long during a heatwave, but do you know the best fan direction to cool a room?

'If you have a ceiling fan, make sure it's running counterclockwise during the summer,' advises Ryan Osterkamp, Owner at Quality Comfort Home Services. 'When it runs counterclockwise, it pushes air down, creating a cooling breeze. If your fan is set to spin clockwise, it actually pulls air up from the ground, which then forces hot air up by your ceiling to get pushed down to the floor, making the room feel warmer.'

Even better, adds Michael Rogers, HVAC Manager at Del-Air Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing and Electrical, open windows on either side of your home to create a cross-draft at the same time.

'When the sun goes down, open up all windows and doors throughout the evening and into the early morning to let in the coolest air possible,' he says.

7. Dirty Air Filters Restrict Airflow

Finally, 'Dirty air filters are one of the simplest things homeowners overlook,' warns Josh, 'A dirty air filter restricts airflow, so less cool air reaches the bedroom. The air conditioner runs longer, but comfort doesn't improve much because the cooled air isn't moving efficiently through the house.'

Therefore, during heatwaves and throughout the warmer weather of summer, Josh suggests checking filters monthly and replacing them every one to three months, depending on the filter type and household conditions.

You can also use one of the best air purifiers (our top recommendation is the Shark NeverChange, available at Amazon) to slow down how quickly your filters become clogged.

What to Shop

Are you struggling to keep comfortable while sleeping through summer heatwaves? Shop from a selection of our favorite cooling essentials below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

'The thermostat doesn't tell the whole story,' concludes Josh. 'A bedroom can feel much warmer than the rest of the house because of trapped heat, poor airflow, direct sunlight, or humidity. Resolving those issues often improves comfort more than lowering the thermostat another couple of degrees,' while helping to avoid any thermostat mistakes at the same time.

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Whatever size or style of kitchen you have, well-organized storage is the key to a successful design. And we're not just talking cabinets and drawers – kitchen storage baskets are just as important if you want to make your units work harder and look more stylish.

Kitchen storage ideas extend far beyond the initial design process. How you implement organizers and zoning into your storage is crucial, especially when open shelving or large cabinet space is at play. And stylish pieces are must-haves to elevate your whole space, both visually and functionally. Think rattan baskets to add warmth and structure to a pantry, stackable wire designs that maximize a small space, and even baskets that hang on your walls to free up your countertop and double as charming wall decor.

We've found the prettiest (yet practical) kitchen storage baskets worth adding to your cooking space, no matter the size, style, or organization needs of your design.

Smart kitchen storage doesn't end once your renovation is complete – smaller items like storage baskets are key to making your space work harder, while elevating the look and feel of your whole space.

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We might expect musty odors in winter, but they can often linger in our homes well into summer, even when we throw open the windows and let natural light flood in.

The problem lies in high humidity and soaring temperatures. Everything from our washing machines to pet beds can contribute to stale smells throughout the season, and understanding the cause is key to making your home smell nice again

Here, our cleaning experts share the seven things to look out for, and how to tackle the issue at the source for a fresher home for hosting.

1. Moisture In Your Washing Machine

In a warm, humid summer, damp areas struggle to dry out. This is especially true of our washing machines, no matter how often you clean a washing machine that smells.

Alex Varela, Cleaning Expert with Oakville Maids, explains, 'Front load washers in particular have this issue when they start trapping moisture and lint, as they have a rubber gasket to close the door properly. After each wash, it’s a good habit to wipe the rubber gasket with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture.' The Great Value Multipurpose Microfiber Household Cleaning Cloths, available at Walmart, for example, are perfect for this, so long as you know how to wash a microfiber cloth afterward.

'Leave the door open between loads or after you’ve finished using your washing machine so air can circulate and dry the drum and the gasket,' adds Alex. It can also be wise to increase how often you clean a washing machine in summer, too, not forgetting the filter.

2. Stacks of Paper Clutter

As Alicia Sokolowski, Cleaning and Laundry Expert and President and co-CEO of AspenClean, explains, the summer season doesn't necessarily create new odors, but amplifies smells already lingering in your home.

'An increase in temperature often comes with humidity, making everyday materials damper for longer periods of time,' she says. 'These moist environments are what create perfect conditions for bacteria, mold, and mildew to grow, causing homes to smell stale even though they look perfectly clean.'

One of these problem areas, she continues, is paper clutter. 'Paper is one of those materials that secretly harbors moisture that most homeowners aren't aware of. Paper is hygroscopic, meaning that it absorbs and releases moisture along with the surrounding air.

'Especially in the summer, tightly packed magazines, cardboard, and other paper products hold moisture, collect dust, and restrict airflow, creating little spots for musty smells to fester.'

To combat this issue, Alicia advises beginning by recycling your paper more frequently, which is also an easy way to be more sustainable at home. 'Then, vacuum the shelves where you usually store your paper,' she adds. 'After doing so, go in and wipe down the area with a natural all-purpose cleaner (available at Amazon) and microfiber cloth; this will ensure that you remove any remaining dust or moisture.

'For more important documents, we recommend that you store them in areas that are clean and dry, away from any moisture-prone areas, such as basement floors and damp walls.'

3. Kitchen Sponges Breeding Bacteria

'Kitchen sponges and dish cloths stay damp for long periods, creating an ideal breeding ground for bacteria during the summer,' explains Karina Toner, Cleaning Expert at Spekless. 'A dirty sponge alone can make an otherwise clean kitchen smell stale.'

To avoid this, she advises replacing sponges every one to two weeks, washing reusable dish cloths after each use with hot water, and always allowing them to dry completely between uses.

Alternatively, consider your stance on the dish sponge vs dish brush debate. Cleaners warn that banishing your kitchen sponge altogether is the way forward. Replace it with the All-Purpose Kitchen Brush, available at Walmart, instead.

4. Musty Upholstered Furniture Traps Stale Odors

Upholstered furniture, such as couches, armchairs, curtains, rugs, and pillows, all collect dust, skin oils, food residue, pet dander, and other airborne smells.

'In the summer,' explains Alicia, 'humidity will bring forth these trapped smells and slow down the drying process after spills or cleaning. More so if this furniture is near cold exterior walls, it may develop condensation or hidden dampness, making the fabric prone to growing mold and mildew.'

So, to clean your upholstery, use a cordless vacuum (our favorite is the Dyson V15 Detect, available at Amazon) to thoroughly remove dust.

'This includes under the cushions and behind and below the piece itself,' shares Alicia. 'We would also recommend that you wash any removable covers. Remember that all covers should be completely dry before you put them back; otherwise, this will trap moisture, and mold will begin to grow. Another tactic is to make sure that all rooms in your home have plenty of airflow. Simply opening a window will help make sure that no unpleasant smells return!'

5. Pet Beds

I'm lucky enough to share my home with four dogs, so I know all too well how important it is to wash dog beds regularly in summer. They can often be counted among the things you aren't washing enough.

'Pet beds, like our own, collect dirt, but they also hold fur, dander, saliva, and the occasional accident, making it more important that these pieces are cleaned often,' says Alicia. 'During the summer, thicker pet beds will likely take longer to dry, harboring odor-producing microbes. These smells can then contaminate nearby floors, rugs, and other furniture, multiplying the problem!'

I've found that the easiest way to avoid this is to wash your pet beds on a sunny day and allow them to air-dry outside in a sunny spot. This has the added benefit of killing any lingering bacteria.

'My trick is to remember doing it is always doing so right after towels and bedding, once a week, so I remember everything "related" to beds was done the same day,' adds Alex. 'If your pets had accidents, treat the stain as soon as possible with an enzymatic cleaner,' such as Nature's Miracle Dog Stain and Odor Remover, available at Walmart.

6. Towels Cling to Moisture and Bacteria

Speaking of towels, your bathroom towels may be causing musty smells in the bathroom.

'After having a shower, all that water and moisture will stick to towels, which causes bacteria and mildew to grow on top of the fibers, giving it that “wet dog” smell,' warns Alex. 'To prevent this, don’t just leave them hanging in your bathroom; if possible, hang them outside.

'If you don’t have a backyard or balcony, hang them open in a well-ventilated space. If you don’t have enough space, you can install a retractable clothesline, available at Amazon.'

7. Trash Cans

Trash cans are filled with bacteria, even if they are empty. Plus, food and residues decompose faster than usual during warm weather.

To clean your trash can and keep it from smelling in summer, rinse your trash can with a hose and dry it in the sun once a week, advises Alex.

'Also, each time you take out the trash and replace it with a new bag, spray the inside with a multi-purpose cleaner,' such as the Method Antibac All-purpose Cleaner, available in a pack of two at Walmart. 'This will help reduce the odor as much as possible before you rinse it the next time.'

What to Shop

Freshening your home during summer begins with cleaning, but adding a candle or fresh blooms is also a lovely way to make your home smell like summer afterward. Below, shop from a selection of cleaning and scenting essentials to transform your space and eliminate stale odors.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

'If your home smells stale during the summer, resist the urge to simply cover the odor with candles or air fresheners,' adds Karina. 'The most effective solution is to eliminate the source by washing fabrics regularly, controlling indoor humidity, and improving ventilation. Once the underlying cause is addressed, any home fragrance you use will last longer and smell much more natural.'

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As eccentric as I am, I will admit that I rarely get excited about microwaves. Why would I? They are some of the most mundane appliances in any kitchen. That said, there is a first time for everything.

Ninja's new CRISPi Microwave with Air Fryer has immediately piqued my interest. In a first, the appliances giant has combined two of the bulkiest countertop appliances into one, helping to save precious counter space in small kitchens while doubling the usefulness.

With the new FusionCrisp function and a PFAS-free interior, it combines everything I love about the best non-toxic air fryers with the practicality of a regular microwave. I am genuinely excited to give it a go.

We have tried and loved both the original Ninja CRISPi Air Fryer and the Ninja CRISPi Pro, and have consistently rated them one of the best glass basket air fryers money can buy. They crisp food quickly and evenly without the risk of PFAS and BPA contaminating food. So, to hear that these features are coming to the microwave can mean only good things.

The CRISPi Microwave uses FusionCrisp Technology, starting the programme with traditional microwaving before finishing with air frying, so you do not need to trade texture for speed, and you'll no longer have to suffer through soggy reheated leftovers for lunch each day, either.

This has the added benefit of being able to cook food in around half the time as a conventional wall oven.

To earn its status as one of the best non-toxic kitchen appliances, the beloved glassware is included, with a PFAS-free crisper tray for the same performance as the best air fryers, albeit in a less conventional shape. The 5.5-quart basket is large enough to hold an eight-pound chicken, four pizza slices, or a 9x11 casserole (enough to feed eight to 10 people).

All in all, it comes with eight microwave presets, including popcorn, potato, defrost, beverage, soup, frozen dinner, frozen vegetables, and soften butter (a setting a lot of us forgetful bakers will greatly appreciate). Add to your traditional air fryer settings, and you have a 14-in-1 essential. It is not the smallest appliance at 16"L x 19.6"W x 14"H, however, when you consider that it takes the place of two, it helps to free up counter and cabinet space.

As someone with a small kitchen, where counterspace comes at a premium, I am excited to put this to the test. I will be sure to report back when I do.

What Else to Shop

From air fryers to cookware, these are the essentials I recommend time and time again to create a non-toxic home and upgrade to a health-conscious kitchen.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Despite its different shape, it is still possible to make the same air fryer mistakes with this microwave combo. Brush up on them ahead of time to avoid poor results.

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During my time at college, I endured more than my fair share of lumpy, bumpy mattresses: Too firm in some areas, and sagging in others. While this is an inevitable part of college life, there is a simple and affordable fix that I relied on throughout the four years I spent studying.

Mattress toppers don't just add comfort − they add all-important support, pressure relief, and often cooling, too − and the Viscosoft High-Density Mattress Topper is our top pick to tick off all three, and all for under $160 right now.

Here's why we think it's the very best mattress topper for dorm beds.

As our expert tester, Meg St-Esprit, detailed in her review of the ViscoSoft High-Density Mattress Topper, it perfectly balances a more affordable price point with excellent pressure relief, an eco-conscious construction, and support in all sleep positions. Add the fact that the removable cover makes it effortlessly easy to clean and care for this topper, and the Viscosoft High-Density Mattress Topper is a clear winner for upgrading any dorm room and guaranteeing better sleep.

'I was pleasantly surprised to find the ViscoSoft was (as the name implies) soft, yet supportive,' writes Meg in her review. 'I sank into the topper when I snuggled in to read for the evening, but woke up with my back in great shape. And, while the thermoregulation was not as robust as some of the best cooling mattress toppers, which are designed specifically for that purpose, I woke up feeling cool and comfortable.'

This is particularly important as dorm rooms often lack effective air conditioning or don't have any at all, making it all the more difficult to cool down a bedroom fast and keep a bed cool.

Meg isn't the only tester to praise this topper. Boasting an overall rating of 4.5 stars across almost 3,500 reviews, one verified buyer, Susan, describes it as 'Like sleeping on a cloud.'

'I purchased [this topper] to go on top of a folding Murphy bed that came with a very firm foam mattress,' they elaborate. 'I wasn't able to sleep on this hard foam mattress, so I researched the best memory foam toppers and found ViscoSoft. All the reviews were spot on! It is extremely comfortable. There was no smell or off-gassing. I highly recommend.'

Another review from Suzanne adds that it 'makes the biggest difference in the world,' while a third promises 'better sleep from day one.'

'I was a bit worried when I first unrolled the topper, thinking it felt quite soft and spongy, but from the first night, my sleep has improved,' continues Jane. 'Less tossing and turning and more time deeply asleep, I’m very happy with it.'

It proves that updating your dorm bedding doesn't have to be expensive or complicated.

More to Shop

It's not just a topper you'll need for your dorm bed. Below, you can shop from a selection of other Sleep Editor-approved favorites to transform your sleep space and make your dorm room feel a little more like home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

These dorm room storage essentials are ideal for keeping your extra bedding organized and out of the way in a small space.

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For many of us, making coffee at home is a no-frills routine. It gets the job done, but rarely comes close to what you can order at your favorite coffee shop.

The De'Longhi Magnifica Duo Automatic Espresso Machine aims to change that, bringing the barista experience home, but without any of the fussy training. With 20 preset hot and iced drinks, including espresso, drip coffee, iced lattes, and cold brew, plus a built-in grinder and automatic milk frother, it takes almost all the guesswork out of brewing.

When choosing a coffee machine, it is certainly one to consider, whether you are a coffee aficionado or simply need your morning caffeine hit.

If you want to make espresso at home, you need one of the best espresso machines − and the De'Longhi Magnifica Duo is shaping up to be just that. With a built-in grinder, preset menu, and automatic milk frother, it can make any style of drink in minutes. It even takes the fuss out of cold brew, reducing a traditionally 12-hour extraction process down to just three minutes.

High-pressure brewing with pre-infusion creates bold, intense espresso. Lower pressure without pre-infusion allows the grinds to bloom for a classic drip coffee. For cold brew, ambient temperature water and very low pressure steep the grounds longer.

To really make the system effortless, the machine features a built-in conical burr grinder and milk frother, which work seamlessly without extra labor. It is going to be one of the quickest café-style brews of any morning routine.

It's designed for families, too, even if you have different tastes. You can set three dedicated user profiles, each with unique taste preferences to automate drink size, intensity, and temperature, no matter who is making coffee at home.

Better still, the cleaning is just as simple. The removable components are dishwasher safe, and the machine has a self-clean function, so you're not stuck scrubbing.

While we are yet to get our hands on one to test ourselves, pre-launch reviews have been nothing but positive. One on the De'Longhi page dubbed the Magnifica Duo the 'Ferrari of coffee machines,' adding, 'This machine is amazing. And I’ve had some pretty good ones in the past. I have a Moccamaster for drip coffee and a Ninja Deluxe machine as well. But the intuitiveness of this DeLonghi, the ease, the flavor of the coffee when extracted is top-notch. I look forward to every morning to be able to use this machine. [...] I could not recommend this machine more if you are a coffee enthusiast.'

Another commented on how surprisingly quiet it was even when grinding, and others praised how easy it is to clean. I can't wait to get my hands on one and put it through its paces.

What Else to Shop

To help you create the ultimate home coffee station, I've rounded up my favorite accessories, from syrup and bean storage to beautiful mugs that make every cup feel a little more special.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

No matter your machine, your drink will only taste as good as the ingredients you use. With that in mind, we have put together a complete guide to choosing coffee beans to find the perfect roast for your brew type and tastes.

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Whether you spend long days in the office or escape into the great outdoors every weekend, one thing often remains the same – the need for great coffee.

Portable coffee makers are more popular than ever; however, few can produce a truly café-quality espresso. For serious coffee lovers, this 'good enough' simply doesn't cut it.

That's where the Flair 2GO Portable Lever Espresso Maker, available at Amazon, saves the day. This compact manual brewer produces authentic espresso at six to nine bars of pressure, complete with a rich crema, wherever you happen to be. Better yet, this non-toxic coffee maker is BPA plastic-free, too.

Usually, when we think about coffee on the go, the AeroPress we reviewed and loved comes to mind. This handy compact coffee maker is undoubtedly one of the greats, offering all-in-one coffee that is like espresso but not quite the same. The cost of being able to brew anything from French press style to cold brew is the rich, velvety crema essential for an espresso base.

The Flair 2GO, on the other hand, can brew only espresso, but delivers the true experience without the need for the best home espresso machine.

The portable aircraft-grade aluminum frame folds away between uses, making it one of the only foldable lever espresso machines for travel, collapsing down to fit in the palm of your hand. What makes it particularly special, however, is the lever design, which allows users to easily brew between six and nine bar pressure, exactly that needed for incredible espresso with crema, with an integrated pressure gauge to make the perfect shot every time.

While we have not tested the Flair 2GO ourselves, we have had our hands on the larger Flair NEO Flex and loved how simple it was, the small footprint, and the fantastic-tasting coffee it produced. There is no denying that it is a slightly more involved setup than an automatic machine, but if you are a true enthusiast looking for cafe-quality on the go, we are sure it is a learning curve you will appreciate.

What Else to Shop

Whether you're making espresso at home or on the go, I have rounded up the best accessories for small-scale espresso making to suit small kitchens and travel bags.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Just looking for an on-the-go caffeine boost, but are not as sure on the drink itself? We have an expert guide to making coffee taste better when you don't like coffee, just for you.

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Le Creuset is no stranger to retiring beloved colors, with several timeless favorites disappearing from shelves in recent years. This time, it's Olive – a rich, earthy ombré green – that's set to be discontinued.

First introduced in 2024, the lush green was the perfect sweet spot for year-round hosting, adding a sumptuous sun-soaked pop to summer tables but feeling just as at home during winter festivities. It is safe to say it is a controversial decision – and one that many fans are not too pleased with.

The remaining Olive pieces have been discounted at Le Creuset, and many are sold out. We don't expect the rest of this non-toxic cookware to be available for long, either, as shoppers rush to complete their Olive sets before the color disappears for good.

Shop The Last of The Le Creuset Olive Collection

While no one understands the full decision process behind retiring colors at Le Creuset, it is often done to make space for new colorways. Olive is not the first to go this year, either, with Shallot and Caribbean having been retired back in February.

With its vast array of green shades, including Thyme, Artichaut, and Foret, it is perhaps unsurprising that one is on the way out. However, it does not make the news any easier on fans, who have shared their disappointment on Instagram over the discontinuation of the only warm, vibrant green on offer.

'Glad I’m basically at pot peace now because it’s very frustrating when you keep discontinuing the beautiful vibrant colors,' one commenter shared. 'Another color gone? Yikes,' added another.

Despite the discontent and threats of boycott, the remaining pieces are selling quickly at Le Creuset, Williams Sonoma, and Crate & Barrel, so if you want a final piece to remember it by, now is the time.

Unsure of which shade to choose for your kitchen next? We have rounded up the best Le Creuset colors for each birth month as a good place to start.

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Ice cream and slush makers are fast becoming one of my favorite ways to survive summer. They will never be as effective as AC, but there is no denying the sweet satisfaction an icy treat offers on a hot day.

In my tiny kitchen, however, I usually have to choose between the two, with no space for extra appliances. That is, until I spotted the GreenPan Frost Pro Ice Cream, Gelato & Frozen Drink Maker at Williams Sonoma.

This 7-in-1 machine creates soft serve, gelato, slushie, alcoholic slush, sorbet, and milkshakes (plus self-cleans), all without pre-freezing. It might just be one of the best ice cream makers out there.

I am a big fan of the Ninja SLUSHi Max, which I reviewed before summer, and we could hardly fault the cult-favorite Ninja CREAMi. That said, there is no denying that having both machines on your counter can feel overwhelming.

The GreenPan Frost Pro, on the other hand, combines the best of both into one relatively compact appliance − and in four chic colorways, too.

Besides the six preset dessert options, you can choose from seven different textures, from soft and creamy to rich and firm, creating slushies in 35-50 minutes and soft-serve ice cream in 40-55 minutes. That's far quicker than going to the store in most cases.

It even comes with a handy pop-out holder for waffle cones to truly recreate that ice cream parlor vibe at home.

Although I have not had the opportunity to test the Frost Pro myself yet, the customer reviews are overwhelmingly promising.

Shopper Jamie dubbed it a new family favorite, writing in their five-star review, 'I was gifted this frost pro, and honestly we’ve been loving it! It’s so easy to use, works quickly, and makes the creamiest frozen treats at home. Such a fun addition for our family this summer! We can’t wait to continue trying new recipes.'

Another, Kelser, added, 'We tried the new gelato function first, and the texture turned out super creamy and smooth in about 15–20 minutes. It genuinely tastes like something from an ice cream shop at home.'

What Else to Shop

To help you plan the perfect ice cream social, I have collated a series of frozen treat essentials, from chic serveware to classic cones.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Beyond cooling yourself this weekend, we have some smart tips to keep your home cool in summer to feel more comfortable from morning to night.

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Going back and forth to college always meant a car packed from the trunk to the roof, filled with my clothes, room decor, and − bulkiest of all − my bedding.

My duvet insert usually ended up bunched up in a bag somewhere, but if there's one thing I really could have made use of every time I moved in and out, it's Vacuum Storage Bags, available at Walmart.

With an electric pump included for ease, and five different sizes for all your packing needs, they make transporting your dorm bedding easier than ever.

Once you've invested in the best comforter or duvet insert for college, squashing it haphazardly into a suitcase, trunk, or bag for transportation is far from the optimal way to keep it plush and fluffy, not to mention to save space when traveling.

That's why I recommend using Vacuum Storage Bags, available at Walmart, instead, which work to free up space by up to 80 per cent and protect your bedding from moisture, dirt, and dust at the same time.

The inclusion of an electric pump means they're both quick and easy to use, too, especiall when compared to manual pumps. Each bag then seals with a triple-sealed turbo valve, double zipper, and strong, puncture-resistant material for an odorless, sturdy, and sustainably reusable solution.

Alongside a five-star review, verified shopper Amy calls them a 'space-saver win,' adding, 'These CubePoint vacuum seal bags actually surprised me. The double-zipper twist-on blue cap seals tight and keeps everything compressed and organized. They're perfect for stacking on shelves and making the most out of storage space − mom-approved for sure...If you need extra storage without buying more bins…these are it.'

Another glowing review from Pamela adds, 'My sister encouraged me for years to try these space bags. I'm glad I finally tried them, and wish I had sooner. They're durable, easy to use, and hold a whole lot, taking up less space. I love these bags.'

And, once you've finished college, there are plenty of ways to use vacuum storage bags at home: They'll also come in handy when moving house, going on holiday, as underbed storage and long-term clothes storage, and for organizing a linen closet.

More to Shop

Are you or your child heading off to college in the fall? Below, you can shop from a selection of alternative vacuum bags and essentials I wish I'd had to make the moving process simple and seamless.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

It's not just moving you'll have to think about − these IKEA dorm room essentials are sure to transform any space while adding personality and character.

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There are few launches as coveted as Le Creuset's annual harvest collection. The fairytale-esque gourd-shaped dishes have become the most sought-after centrepiece for fall tables. For autumn enthusiasts, they are the holy grail.

Although we're still in the height of summer, Le Creuset appears to already be dreaming of cozy fall feasts with the quiet relaunch of their most popular pumpkin pieces, including the endearing Pumpkin Butter Dish.

The launch has historically arrived in September, and we still expect a more robust drop at the turn of the seasons. However, given how quickly these collector's items usually sell out, we don't suggest waiting – they really are some of the best cookware money can buy.

Shop the Early Le Creuset Harvest Collection

Le Creuset's pumpkin cookware has become a true fan favorite, selling out year after year, with listings disappearing each spring. The current launch offers four of the most popular pieces from years gone by, including the 'new' butter dish (restocked after a seasonal hiatus), large cocotte, mini cocotte, and braiser.

Each piece carries the same heirloom quality as the rest of the Le Creuset line, making it some of the best stoneware and cast-iron cookware on the market. The dishes are oven-safe to 500°F, including the butter dish, which doubles wonderfully as a small baking vessel for cheeses, sides, and desserts. As one of the more affordable pieces in the collection, it is a sweet investment for those shopping on a budget or who already have a quality Dutch oven to rely on for seasonal cooking.

With the current heat dome, it can feel far too early to consider our fall table decor ideas and seasonal menus, but acquiring these pieces is not always smooth sailing at the height of the season. One Reddit user, for instance, reported receiving their Cocotte a few weeks ago after a six-month back order. So, planning and shopping ahead can pay off when it comes to Thanksgiving hosting.

The harvest launch is not the only exciting thing happening at Le Creuset at the moment. They are also running their factory-to-table sale, offering their biggest discounts of the year.

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For most college students, cramming their entire lives into a 200-square-foot, minimally furnished dorm room is one of the most difficult parts of moving out. Without a plan, the room can quickly turn hectic, and it'll constantly feel cluttered. That's why the best dorm storage essentials should be top of the shopping list prior to move-in.

As someone who has lived in her fair share of minuscule college dorm rooms and similarly sized studio apartments, I know firsthand what storage ideas aid in maximizing small spaces. Things like storage carts, stackable underbed baskets, and over-the-door organizers are classics for a reason – these furnishings create designated zones for miscellaneous objects and help eliminate excessive clutter. Multi-purpose furnishings are another favorite of mine. Like storage ottomans or charging nightstands, these pieces do many things at once, helping to streamline the design of the space.

Though you can find storage essentials at nearly any retailer, brands like PB Teen, Dormify, IKEA, and The Container Store specialize in creating dorm-specific organization tools. At PB Teen, you'll even find design-driven picks from the brand's collaborations with LoveShackFancy and Hill House Home. This way, you can increase dorm storage without sacrificing its aesthetic appeal.

College move-in is just a few short weeks away, which means now is as good a time as ever to think about what dorm storage essentials your college-heading kid needs to make their new living space as functional as can be. Ahead, find 24 picks that'll help make the most of every square inch of even the tiniest of dorm rooms.

Closet Storage

Underbed and Bedside Storage

Laundry and Room Supplies Storage

Desk Storage

Wall Storage

General Room Storage

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A dorm room is usually blank, with empty white walls, devoid of any personality, and lacking in storage and organization. That's why, while at college, I relied on clever, damage-free hooks to string up my fairy lights, display pictures, and add all-important hanging space, without risking my deposit.

Once I graduated and moved out of my final college room, I thought I was done with Command Hooks, available at Amazon. As I soon found out, though, they aren't just for students.

Even now, four years later, I still swear by them for decorating and organizing my home.

In a dorm room with next to no storage, using vertical storage to save space is not a choice – it’s a necessity. And, from hanging towels to organizing keys and coats, Command Hooks are still just as handy around my home now as they were back at college.

Admittedly, I'm far from a professional when it comes to DIY projects, which is exactly why I love them − simply stick the hooks to the wall and remove them damage-free whenever necessary, without the need for any power tools for either installation or removal.

They immediately improve wall storage ideas (essential for small dorm rooms), and allow me to move items around as I need to, without having to follow-up with hole filler and paint.

Plus, I can hang items above wall sockets and switches, without the usual stress that comes with drilling into a wall and navigating electrical.

How to Use Command Hooks Correctly

The key to using hooks for increased storage is to apply and remove the Command Hooks properly − you can't rush the process. To hang artwork without damaging walls and expand your home storage ideas, these Command tips are a must:

• Clean the wall first: Any small hair or dust can prevent proper adhesion. A slightly damp microfiber cloth, available from Walmart, is all you need for this.
• Use the correct strength strip: Always check the weight of the item you're hanging first. If you do not have suitably sized kitchen scales, from Walmart, for this, I have found that using bathroom scales (also from Walmart) and weighing myself, then weighing myself holding the object, and working out the difference, is a good guide. Opting for a strip designed for a bigger weight is always a safe option if you are unsure.
• Ensure the tab is pointing down: I cannot stress this step enough, as it is the reason I had to fix cracks in plaster walls in my second year. The small tab on a Command hook is how you remove it, and it needs to be pointing downwards, not sideways, to ensure damage-free removal later down the line.
• Allow the strip to stick before hanging anything: In a rush to decorate or organize a space, I have been guilty of sticking the strip on the wall and hanging the item up right away. However, this can cause the strip to peel away. Instead, let the strip sit on the wall for 24 hours before hanging anything with it to allow it to properly adhere.
• Remove slowly with two hands: The ‘damage-free’ part of command strips comes down to the removal technique. To remove a strip from a wall without damage, place one finger at the top of the strip, applying firm pressure, as you pinch and pull the bottom tab downwards, not away from the wall. This stretches the sticky backing for safe removal. Only once it is fully stretched out, remove your top finger for the strip to come away completely.

What to Shop

There are so many variations of Command strips, each of which can hold items of different weights and sizes. Below, you can shop from a selection to meet a wide range of different needs and preferences, along with organizational and cleaning essentials to make using them seamlessly simple.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Moving to college soon? Check out the organizing lessons I learned from a small dorm room to help set you up for a clutter-free study hub.

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When it comes to making a home feel more organized, the best storage solutions are often the ones that work hard while still looking beautiful. ALDI’s latest home find does exactly that: the Kirkton House Hanging Woven Baskets are a simple way to add practical storage without sacrificing style. The two-piece set includes one small and one large basket, offering an easy way to make use of overlooked wall space around the home.

I have this woven hanging basket from Amazon in my apartment, and it has quickly become my favorite storage idea for keeping my home organized. I love how useful it is for keeping everyday essentials close at hand while adding a layer of natural texture to the room. It is especially valuable in small rooms where floor space is at a premium – a reminder that the smartest storage solutions are often the ones that make use of vertical space.

At just $9.99, ALDI’s woven baskets deliver the kind of natural texture that designers often use to soften modern interiors. The warm, handcrafted look works particularly well with relaxed, organic styles – from coastal and Scandinavian-inspired rooms to farmhouse kitchens and cozy entryways.

A Small-Space Storage Solution With Style

Wall-mounted storage has become increasingly popular as homeowners look for ways to reduce clutter without adding bulky furniture. Unlike traditional woven baskets that take up valuable floor or shelf space, hanging baskets use vertical space, turning empty walls into functional storage zones.

The Kirkton House set is ideal for storing everyday essentials that tend to create visual clutter. Hang them in an entryway for mail, keys, and sunglasses; in a bathroom for rolled towels and toiletries; or in a home office for notebooks, chargers, and stationery.

They are also a clever addition to small kitchens, where counter space is often limited. Use the larger basket for tea towels, cookbooks, or fresh produce, while the smaller size is perfect for herbs, napkins, or coffee accessories.

Bring Natural Texture Into Your Home

Natural materials continue to be one of the easiest ways to make interiors feel warmer and more inviting. Woven baskets add depth and texture without overwhelming a room, making them an affordable alternative to more expensive decorative storage.

The beauty of these baskets is their versatility: they can blend seamlessly into a minimalist home while also adding character to more traditional spaces. The woven finish works especially well alongside other organic materials, such as linen, wood, rattan and jute, creating a layered, relaxed feel.

Shop Hanging Baskets

If you can't make it to an ALDI store – or you're looking for a more premium take on the trend – there are plenty of beautiful hanging baskets available from other retailers.

Below are some of our favorite picks, all of which offer the same blend of stylish, space-saving storage while bringing warmth and natural texture to your home.

Whether used for organization or simply as a decorative accent, these hanging baskets prove that practical storage does not have to look purely functional – sometimes the smallest additions can have the biggest impact.

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If you're looking to cut your energy bills, reduce wear on your favorite clothes, or avoid using the dryer during warmer weather, air drying is one of the easiest ways to do it. And with much of the US experiencing another spell of extreme summer heat, many households may be tempted to skip the dryer altogether and make the most of the sunshine.

For many households, that means hanging laundry on an outdoor clothesline whenever the forecast looks promising. While there are plenty of benefits of air-drying laundry, including using less energy and helping fabrics retain their shape, outdoor drying also exposes freshly washed fabrics to the elements. Pollen, insects, dust, humidity, and strong UV rays can all affect how your laundry looks, smells, and feels. In some neighborhoods, HOA rules may even prevent outdoor line drying altogether.

When conditions outside aren't ideal, drying clothes indoors can be a more reliable alternative, helping you dry clothes quickly while protecting fabrics from allergens, pests, and unpredictable weather.

'Air drying is gentler on fabrics than machine drying,' says Ken Doty, COO and Cleaning Expert at The Maids. 'However, where you dry your clothes can make a bigger difference than many people realize.'

Here, laundry professionals explain six reasons why bringing your laundry indoors may sometimes be the smarter option.

1. Unpredictable Weather Can Undo Your Hard Work

The ideal day for drying laundry outside is warm, dry, and breezy, but the weather doesn't always cooperate. Sudden rain showers can leave clothes soaking wet all over again, while strong winds may blow laundry off the line or coat freshly washed fabrics with dust, dirt, and debris.

Rain and wind are among the biggest drawbacks of outdoor drying because they can leave freshly washed laundry covered in grime or even send it 'off the line completely,' meaning you'll likely have to wash everything again. This is especially common during summer thunderstorm season across much of the US, when clear mornings can quickly give way to afternoon downpours.

For those unpredictable weather days, an indoor drying rack can be a useful backup. The Amazon Basics Foldable Portable Laundry Rack is a practical choice for air drying clothes indoors, with a collapsible design that makes it easy to store away when not in use.

2. Pollen Can Trigger Allergy Symptoms

If you or someone in your household struggles with seasonal allergies, drying clothes outside could bring pollen straight back into your home. Even after washing with hypoallergenic detergent, damp fabrics can easily trap pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds while they're hanging outdoors.

According to Cleaning Expert Ken Doty, this is particularly problematic during spring and summer, when 'common allergens' become trapped in clothing and carried back inside. Rather than helping to reduce allergens in your home, outdoor drying can spread them onto bedding, towels, and clothing, making allergy symptoms more difficult to manage.

If you do need to rewash laundry after it's been exposed to high pollen levels, a fragrance- and dye-free detergent can help. The all® Free Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent is a good option for allergy-prone households, as it's formulated for sensitive skin and removes 99% of top everyday and seasonal allergens, including ragweed, grass, and tree pollen. It's widely available from Amazon.

3. High Humidity Can Leave Clothes Smelling Musty

Warm weather doesn't always mean fast drying. In humid parts of the country, including much of the Southeast and Gulf Coast, laundry can remain damp for hours, creating the perfect environment for bacteria, mold, and mildew. While the best tumble dryers are designed to dry clothes quickly regardless of the weather, outdoor air drying is far less predictable when humidity levels are high.

Professional Cleaner Trish Duarte, Franchise Owner of MaidPro Temecula and Murrieta, recommends that clothes be dry within two to six hours whenever possible. She says a musty smell is a clear warning sign that bacteria, mold, and mildew are developing and means the load should be washed again. She also recommends adding OxiClean Odor Blaster from Amazon or pure sodium percarbonate when rewashing musty laundry to help tackle lingering bacteria.

If outdoor humidity is high, drying clothes indoors with good airflow, a dehumidifier, or a heated drying rack can often produce fresher, faster results.

If you don't have space for a traditional drying rack, we tested the Eclipse™ 3-tier Ecru Clothes Drying Rack With Screen and loved it as a stylish alternative to drying clothes outside. The slim, foldable design conceals laundry behind a fabric screen while allowing air to circulate freely, making it especially useful for apartments, laundry rooms, or small homes where space is at a premium.

4. HOA Rules Could Limit Your Options

Even if you have a backyard or patio that's perfect for line drying, you may not be allowed to use it. Many homeowners' associations (HOAs) prohibit or restrict visible clotheslines for aesthetic reasons, while some local communities have their own rules governing outdoor laundry drying.

That said, protections do exist. Several states, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, New Mexico, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, and Vermont, have enacted some form of 'Right to Dry' legislation, which limits how much HOAs and local governments can restrict residents from line drying their laundry.

Because these laws vary widely in scope, it's worth checking your HOA's bylaws, lease agreement, and local ordinances before installing or regularly using an outdoor clothesline. Even in states with 'Right to Dry' protections, there may still be reasonable restrictions on where and how clotheslines can be used.

5. Strong Sunshine Can Fade Colors Faster

Sunshine helps speed up drying, but prolonged exposure to UV rays can gradually break down fabric dyes. While the current heatwave affecting large parts of the US may seem like the perfect opportunity to dry laundry outdoors, higher temperatures are often accompanied by stronger UV levels. That combination can speed up drying, but it can also increase the risk of fading, particularly for dark or brightly colored fabrics left in direct sunlight for several hours.

Daniel Brown, CEO of Handy Cleaners, says fabrics 'might fade faster due to excessive exposure to the sun,' especially brightly colored or dark clothing. Black garments, denim, richly colored towels, and vibrant summer clothing are often the first to show signs of fading.

If you prefer drying clothes outside, turning garments inside out or hanging them in partial shade can help preserve their color for longer. Washing dark loads with a color-care detergent, such as Woolite Darks Defense Liquid Laundry Detergent, available from Amazon, can also help protect dyes from fading over time, helping your favorite pieces stay looking newer for longer despite repeated washing and sun exposure.

6. Insects Can Hitch a Ride Into Your Home

Freshly laundered clothes can attract more than just compliments. Sweet-smelling detergent residue and damp natural fibers may appeal to ants, spiders, bees, and other insects, especially during the warmer months.

Trish Duarte says insects can stain fabrics, create holes in clothing, and even leave you with an unpleasant surprise when you get dressed. 'Ants can make their way onto your clothes, and some can bite,' she says.

Bringing laundry inside as soon as it's dry and giving each item a quick shake before folding or placing it in the laundry basket can help prevent unwanted summer pests from making their way indoors. If you're storing freshly washed linens or seasonal clothing, adding natural cedar blocks to closets and drawers can provide an extra layer of protection against fabric pests.

The Homode Cedar Blocks for Clothes Storage, available on Amazon, are made from aromatic cedar and can be tucked into drawers, storage bins, or hung in closets to help deter clothes moths while keeping stored fabrics smelling fresh.

Shop Clothes Drying Essentials

Drying clothes outside remains one of the simplest and most energy-efficient ways to do laundry, and in the right conditions, it's an excellent way to help clothes last longer. But when pollen counts are high, humidity slows drying, UV rays are particularly intense, or stormy weather is on the horizon, moving your laundry indoors can help protect fabrics while keeping them smelling fresh.

The good news is that you don't have to rely on the dryer to achieve great results. A well-placed drying rack, heated airer, or dehumidifier can help clothes dry quickly indoors while shielding them from the elements. By matching your drying method to the weather and season, you'll get the best of both worlds: the fabric-care benefits of air drying without the drawbacks that sometimes come with hanging laundry outside.

If you or your child is heading off to college in the fall, your attention may already be turning to dorm bedding and perfecting their sleep setup, to be as comfortable away as at home. Dorm beds are notoriously sub-par, but it's all too easy to spend too much on dorm bedding, especially as dorm beds are often oddly sized, too − usually Twin XL but not always − which means taking bedding from home is usually not an option, either.

That's where I come in. As the resident Sleep Editor here at Homes & Gardens, who graduated from college only four years ago, I've compiled this guide to cover everything you'll need, and nothing you don't, covering sizing differences, washing and care concerns, balancing cost and quality on what is a fairly short-term purchase, and choosing between different types of bedding.

So, to balance the best options with the best value for money to transform a dorm room, look no further than our expert guide.

The Ultimate Dorm Bedding Checklist

All the sizes and pricing in this dorm room bedding guide refer to Twin XL bedding, as most dorm rooms use Twin XL mattresses, but always check with the particular college before making a purchase, as this can differ.

If you're using a topper and protector, don't forget that you'll need sheets with deep pockets (at least 14 to 16 inches) to fit over both of those, and your mattress itself. Dorm mattresses may usually be thin and lackluster, but once you've added a thick, plush topper, any standard sheet will pop right off the corners and become bothersome.

A Mattress Topper

Investing in one of the best mattress toppers for a dorm bed is perhaps the most important consideration when it comes to college dorm bedding. I know all too well how often you'll find yourself having to fix a sagging mattress as you move each year, and a topper is a simple, affordable way to add comfort and support.

If you're a hot sleeper, opt for a cooling option for a refreshing sleep surface. Sleepers who struggle with aches and pains, or who play a lot of sport, will find something firmer and more comfortable, whereas those who suffer from allergies should opt for something hypoallergenic, particularly as dorm rooms are often dusty and not regularly cleaned.

A Mattress Protector

The second most important purchase you’ll make for college dorm bedding is undoubtedly a mattress protector. Dorm beds have usually seen no end of students come and go, so, unless your room comes with a brand new mattress, this is a non-negotiable hygiene barrier.

To that end, it’s best to go for something zippered, waterproof, and bed-bug proof, as cleaning pros warn that this is one of the dirtiest places in a bedroom. The good news is that protectors tend to be very affordable, particularly compared to toppers, pillows, sheets, and other essentials, and they're also easy to clean and quick to dry.

Fitted and Flat Sheets

Next, used over both your topper and protector, the best bed sheets for a dorm room will be easy to care for, as laundry services are usually limited, soft, and breathable. My top tip? Buy two sets so they can be swapped on laundry day, but not so many that you won’t have space to store them.

If you’re a hot sleeper, the best Amazon cooling sheets offer a plethora of options at a more affordable price point than buying directly from the same more luxurious retailers you may use at home. Once you master how to make a bed like an expert, it’ll look just as high-end, too.

For the best deal, a bedding set includes everything you need for a college sleep space, but doesn't let you customize your options. If you're shopping for a simple option, then a set is best, but it's worth shopping around to check all your options. Some retailers will also offer bundle deals for added savings.

Don't forget to add a blanket, too, as an extra layer at the foot of the bed is perfect for chilly nights or for when friends come over.

A Comforter or Duvet Insert

While you may be used to using a comforter at home, and may be browsing dorm room comforters or dorm quilts, I’d argue that a duvet insert in a cover is a better option, as it’s far easier to wash bed linen than it is to wash a comforter, and you can switch the covers,

That being said, if you know you’ll have access to large washing machines and dryers, a comforter offers a convenient all-in-one solution.

Most importantly, dorm room temperatures fluctuate wildly, and you often won’t have access to changing the temperature. I spent many winter nights before Christmas cold in my dorm room and overheating once the radiators were on in January and February, so opting for a medium-weight, synthetic-down alternative is a good option, offering both comfort and usually being easier to clean than down or silk picks.

Pillows

Finally, never underestimate the importance of investing in one of the best pillows in college. After all, out of all the bedding you need, these have longevity as they can be used on any other-sized bed once you graduate. A comfortable pillow can also vastly improve your sleep quality, and help you to fall asleep faster, too − an invaluable quality when you’ve got to be up early for lectures and seminars.

As the bed in a dorm room doubles as a couch, workspace, and lounge area, I’d recommend buying at least two pillows: One for sleeping and a second for sitting comfortably when propped up against the headboard, which, from experience, tend to be hard and uncomfortable. A couple of harder cushions certainly never go amiss either, and have the added benefit of making your bed look like a little more hotel-esque.

Washing and Care

It's far more difficult to do laundry at college, as laundry rooms tend to be extremely busy with simple machines, and it's likely that your child won't be using, or won't be able to use, delicate cycles or fabric softeners. For that reason, it's best to choose dorm bedding in materials that are durable, breathable, and easy to clean.

• Material: I'd recommend investing in 100 per cent cotton, in either percale or sateen, or bamboo blends. Cotton percale is crisp and cool, so ideal for hot sleepers or stuffy dorm rooms with bad or no AC, while sateen is softer, heavier, and feels more luxurious, but can be slightly more difficult to clean.
• Avoid polyester and microfiber: These materials are undoubtedly budget-friendly, but can trap heat, pill easily, and cause night sweats. If you do need something more affordable, though, opt for microfiber that's high-quality and brushed for added breathability.
• Thread count: Don't get weighed down by worrying about thread count. For college, a thread count between 200 and 400 is perfect for balancing both durability and breathability.
• Easy care: Before buying anything, ensure it's both machine washable and dryer-safe, which is essential for sanitizing and keeping a sleep space hygienic.

FAQs

What's the Best Color for Dorm Bedding?

I love the look of crisp white sheets, but at college, I always opted for bright patterns and darker colors, which hide a multitude of sins from stains and spillages. For that reason, navy, grey, olive, or subtle patterns are the best color options.

For example, the Clarissa Floral Vine Sheet Set, available at Urban Outfitters, is a great, affordable option to add some pattern and character to any dorm room space.

Once you've ticked off this dorm bedding checklist, check out how to deep clean a dorm room and keep pests out of a dorm room.

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The Spot+Scrub Ai marks a shift for Dyson as its first robot vacuum to combine suction with a built-in mop. It's also the first real attempt at the wet-and-dry category dominated by rivals for years.

When it comes to vacuuming, particularly on carpet and pet hair, it's a strong contender for one of the best robot vacuums I've tried. When it comes to mopping, it falls short.

At $1,199, this isn't a cheap appliance, and after four weeks of testing, I found the Spot+Scrub Ai does most of what Dyson promises, just not all of it. Read on to find out where it excels, and where it let me down.

The One-Minute Summary

Dyson's first entry into the best vacuum-mops category combines serious vacuuming credentials with a disappointing mop.

Across four weeks of testing with a dog and children in the house, it cut my manual vacuuming by more than 90%, the biggest reduction I've seen from any robot vacuum I've tested. Its carpet and pet hair performance consistently impressed me more than my own upright Dyson, and its see-through dustbin reinforces that, regularly revealing just how much debris and hair it's pulling out of carpets I thought were already clean.

In standardized testing, the Spot+Scrub Ai handled sugar and lentils cleanly, but treated scattered cereal as an obstacle rather than mess, working through it in a stop-start pattern that often left pieces behind. It's a similar story with mopping, where ketchup cleared well, mustard was simply smeared around, and a foam trail left by the wet roller would occasionally trigger the robot into a repeated stain-removal loop until it gave up entirely. Over several weeks, I found myself mopping manually more often than I'd like.

The dock handles roller washing and bin emptying automatically, though the bin's release mechanism isn't obvious without checking a video first. If you're after the best robot vacuum for vacuuming and pet hair, this is one of the strongest I've tested. If mopping matters just as much, the Dreame Aqua 10 Roller remains the more dependable all-rounder, and it's the robot vacuum I always come back to at home when I'm not testing anything else.

Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai: Specifications

Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai: Setup

Getting the Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai up and running took a little longer than most robot vacuums I've tested, but that's not a huge surprise for a model with this many moving parts. Inside the box is the robot itself, the docking station, and a docking ramp. The two side sweepers (one red, one blue) and charging cable are in a separate tray, and all of it is packaged neatly and in easy-to-recycle packaging.

The docking ramp clicks onto the front of the station, and the charging cable connects at the back, at which point an LED confirms it's live. This LED was flashing red for a long time, and I wasn't sure what the error was until I filled the clean water tank, at which point it turned white.

To fill this tank, lift it out using its handle, lift the blue rubber flap on the back of the dock, and pour in your floor cleaner. Dyson recommends only using its own 02 Probiotic hard floor cleaning solution, but it doesn't include a bottle in the box, which means spending another $23.99 on top of what is already an expensive robot vacuum.

You can, in theory, use any hard floor cleaning solution or even skip this step completely, but this can cause problems with excess foaming – as I explain more about in the Performance section – and could invalidate your warranty. Once the solution is added, unclip the tank's lid and top it up with clean water before slotting it back into place.

Attaching the side sweepers is the easiest part of the process: turn the robot over on a soft surface, and click the red sweeper into the left mount and the blue one into the right.

Once assembled and positioned, the smart home setup via the MyDyson app is quick and easy. With the robot placed on the dock, the app walks you through connection, and you confirm the pairing by pressing the Power and Home buttons on the robot.

The robot then does a mapping run. Mine created a decent first map in a little under 15 minutes – although it thought my garden was an extra room. Obstacles, furniture, and room boundaries were identified, and the robot was then ready to start deep cleaning my home.

The app recommends charging the robot to 100% before running the initial deep clean, although mine managed it on 52% (the level of battery it had straight out of the box). The dock then takes care of all the prep, including washing the roller mop. All you need to do is clear the floor.

In my test, this initial setup took around 25 minutes, including water tank filling and the first mapping run. This puts it on par with the Dreame Aqua 10 Roller, which I found similarly quick to map but more fiddly to assemble.

Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai: Design and Features

The Spot+Scrub Ai is unmistakably and unapologetically a Dyson, complete with its red, purple, and gray colour scheme running throughout.

The dock is matte gray with a large, see-through dustbin on the left that has Dyson's iconic purple plastic lid with red clips and buttons. Next to this dustbin are two cylinders: one with a small, filled purple circle on the top (clean tank, right-hand side) and one with an outline of a circle (dirty tank, center).

It's not immediately clear which is the clean tank and which is the dirty water reservoir, and even now, after a month of testing, I occasionally forget and have to remove each to see which has the cleaning solution port behind it, and is therefore the clean tank.

Below the tanks are the two charging ports and the textured ramp where the robot sits when it's charging.

The charging cable that comes with the dock isn't very long, which limited where in my kitchen I could set it up so it was close enough to a plug but not in the way. Dyson's manual recommends putting the dock against a wall, on a level surface, with at least 19.7 inches of clearance around the sides and a staggering 59 inches in front, which narrows down suitable locations even more.

As does the fact that this isn't a unit you can tuck unobtrusively into a corner; at 17.9 inches high, 17.3 inches wide, and 20 inches deep, it has a large physical footprint, and I'd recommend checking the space in your own kitchen or boot room before committing.

As a side note, 59 inches is almost 5 ft, and for a lot of kitchens that will be impossible. I positioned mine in a much smaller area, and it had ample space to move around.

The robot itself is a round disc made of matte black plastic. Power and Home buttons sit on the top, and a status light between the buttons pulses white when charging and turns amber if something is wrong.

Just behind these buttons is a hinged panel marked Filter, where you'll find the removable built-in dustbin and filter. To access this bin and filter, you need to push the bottom of the robot up to release the latch. This isn't immediately clear and can be fiddly.

Flip the robot over, and you'll see the wet roller on the front half, which consists of a horizontal blue microfiber cylinder. The two side sweepers, which are used for pulling trapped debris from corners and edges sit above it.

Behind the wet roller is the anti-tangle brush bar, a shorter red-bristled roller beneath a hinged cover with a red release tab, two large treaded wheels and a camera and sensor cluster is built into the front.

According to Dyson, the wet roller uses a "12-point hydration system" that refreshes the roller with heated water on every rotation rather than dragging a single damp pad around the floor. It also extends to both the left and right as and when needed for better baseboard cleaning.

A camera and sensor cluster is built into the front edge, and this is where the Spot+Scrub Ai's stain-detection system lives. This system beams a blade of green light over the floor to spot and catch dust, crumbs, and stains that can sometimes be missed in normal lighting.

On carpet, for example, the AI lifts the wet roller out of the way to avoid spreading stains, while the dry brush bar retracts when it senses liquid, so wet messes don't dirty the roller.

The HD camera then sits just above this light strip, sending what the light sees to an onboard AI processor that compares the image against a reference bank of nearly 200 different substances, from food and liquid to pet mess and hidden dust.

This AI decides how the robot should respond, and all of this happens locally on the robot itself rather than in the cloud, which Dyson positions as a privacy benefit as much as a speed one.

The dock then handles everything else. Its cyclonic system empties the robot's bin, while the wet roller is washed in 60°C water and dried with 45°C warm air, ready for the next cycle without you touching it.

All of this runs through the MyDyson app, which – if you've used any smart Dyson product before – will be instantly recognisable and is where all of your Dyson appliances and tools live.

If you haven't used the app before, it has a black background with white text and icons. The home screen shows a 3D render of the robot and dock, sitting above a navigation bar split into Overview, Manage maps, and Product settings tabs. From Overview, you get a live status showing battery percentage, current activity (washing or drying the wet roller), and an Activity history screen where you can check previous cleans.

The Manage maps tab is where the floor plan lives, and tapping into a clean brings up a "Set up clean" screen with two toggles at the top: Room and Target. This lets you either select specific rooms or draw a target zone for one-off cleans.

For the cleans themselves, you can switch between Auto, Quick, Quiet, and Boost cleaning modes, choose vacuum-only, wash-only, vacuum-then-wash or even adjust hydration level, plus create cleaning schedules. It's a similar level of control to the Dreame Aqua 10 Roller and is one of the best parts of the Spot+Scrub Ai in my opinion.

Maintenance features are built into the app too. You can check the condition of brushes, filters, and bags, see when parts need replacing, and order spares directly. Plus, it's a good place to start if your robot vacuum keeps getting stuck or isn't working as it should.

What Is the Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai Like to Use?

Living with the Spot+Scrub Ai is mostly hands-off, which is the point of a robot in this category, but the app takes longer to get used to than the interface suggests.

The basics are easy, but where it often slowed me down was room identification. The dark background and white labelling look sharp, but the room icons on the map aren't always easy to tell apart, and working out which numbered room matched which actual space in my home took some trial and error. Zooming and panning around the 3D map view is also less smooth than the flat 2D view, which I found easier to read during a clean.

The robot moves with the deliberate pace I'd expect from a LiDAR-equipped robot – it knows where it is and easily moves around and avoids furniture legs, shoes, and messy cables left on the floor. It also moves well over the thresholds between rooms.

I have a high threshold between the Karndean flooring in my kitchen and the solid wood of my hallway and the Spot+Scrub Ai didn't once hesitate or get tripped up by this in the same way other robots – even robots that cost a similar amount – have in the past.

Where the AI navigation is less convincing is how it interprets what it finds. You can visibly see the robot reacting to mess and on the most part, this is impressive. The Spot+Scrub Ai can return to areas time and again until it's successfully cleared the mess.

However, there were several occasions where I watched it treat larger debris as obstacles, rather than mess. It would approach, pick up a piece, divert, approach again, pick up another, divert again, rather than running a few passes over the whole area the way it does with finer debris. It would then effectively give up and say 'clean complete,' which meant I had to finish the job manually.

Finally, onto noise. When I first started using the Spot+Scrub Ai, it rattled and was annoyingly loud until I realised the cover on the dry brush compartment hadn't been locked into place properly, after which it was near-on silent during cleans.

The only time its noise felt intrusive was at the end of cleans when the dock automatically emptied the dustbin. It also makes a low hum when it cleans the mop, and that hum lasts for a few hours as the dock dries the mop too, but neither is a problem, and you soon get used to it.

Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai: Vacuuming Tests

To assess how well the Spot+Scrub Ai handles different types of mess, I ran a set of standardized tests on both hard floor and carpet, scattering a quarter cup each of sugar, lentils, and cereal across the floor with some pushed into corners and edges.

Sugar is used as a stand-in for fine debris like dust, lentils are a good proxy for medium debris, and cereal represents larger crumbs, kibble, or similar.

Sugar and lentils were handled well on both surfaces. The Spot+Scrub AI lifted around 95% of the remnants cleanly in a single pass without scattering further across the floor and picked up the rest on a second pass.

I was consistently impressed, both during these fine and medium debris tests and in day-to-day use, by how much was picked up and emptied into the dock each time.

Having the see-through bin helps with this, and it regularly highlights just how dirty my floor can be (even when it's recently been manually vacuumed), and just how much the Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai collects.

The standout performance and depth of cleaning, on carpet particularly, also makes the Spot+Scrub Ai a fantastic robot vacuum for pet hair.

Not only could I see just how many hairs had been collected on each run thanks to the see-through dustbin again, but even while building Lego, playing chess or sitting on the floor with my dog, I noticed far fewer dog hairs ending up on my hands, the board or the pieces. This was more impressive than my upright Dyson and gave me huge confidence about how clean my floors were with the Spot+Scrub Ai.

Even areas my dog tends to settle in, which usually need a manual vacuum to remove the dander once a day, stayed visibly clearer for longer than I'm used to.

Sadly, this performance set my expectations so high that when the Dyson performed so poorly with large debris, it made it all the more disappointing.

Rather than clearing the scattered cereal pieces in a few passes – or at all in some cases – the robot seemed to treat them more like obstacles than mess. When used in Room mode, the vacuum worked relatively methodically and was able to capture most of the large debris other than pieces at the edges of rooms and furniture. It wasn't perfect, and it didn't live up to its performance with fine and medium debris, but it was passable.

In Target mode however, when cleaning hardwood floors as well as carpet, the Spot+Scrub Ai consistently failed at the most basic of tasks.

It would often approach a piece of debris, recoil slightly as if it was an obstacle, go back to it, pick it up, divert slightly, approach the next piece, bounce away from it, return to pick it up, divert again and repeat.

It worked in a stop-start pattern rather than running a clean sweep over the area, and this meant that sometimes it cleared the lot, but at other times it only cleared small pockets of debris. It would then announce it had finished and return to the dock, leaving me to finish the job myself again with a manual sweep or vacuum.

In practical terms, and for most day-to-day messes and general upkeep of the house, I can hardly fault the vacuuming prowess of the Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai. It cut my manual vacuuming by in excess of 90% – the biggest reduction I've seen in all my time testing robot vacuums. I still used my cordless vacuum on carpets and stairs every weekend, but for daily maintenance, the robot handled most of the work.

I rarely have spills that involve large debris, so beyond the standardized tests, its poor cereal performance didn't make a noticeable impact on my everyday life. It's most definitely worth noting and is a significant flaw in an otherwise brilliant vacuum, but it didn't end up being a dealbreaker.

Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai: Mopping Tests

As the first Dyson robot vacuum to come with a mop, a feature that was missing from its predecessor, the Dyson 360 Vis Nav, I was most excited to see if Dyson's vacuuming expertise could expand to mopping. Sadly, it didn't.

I tested its mopping skills using our standard two-stains method. For the first test, I poured a quarter cup of ketchup onto my kitchen floor; for the second, I used a quarter cup of mustard.

The ketchup, which is slightly thinner, was cleared reasonably well. The mop lifted it within a couple of passes without much residue left behind.

Mustard, being thicker, didn't fare nearly as well.

The robot moved over it repeatedly but largely just spread it around rather than lifting it away. Similar to how it handled the large debris, the vacuum incorrectly concluded it had finished, even when there were still large blobs of mustard on the floor. It scanned the area, announced it was done, and returned to the dock.

After both tests, the floor felt sticky rather than clean, and even when my husband returned home three hours later, he said he could still smell ketchup.

The issues didn't stop there, though. The wet roller would leave trails of foam, evenly spaced, behind it as it worked. Unless caught early, these trails would dry and become water marks, and you could visually see the route the Spot+Scrub Ai had taken.

On the odd occasion, the stain-detection system that makes the robot so attentive to spills also made it overly sensitive to problems like the foam trails. It kept reading each foam trail as a fresh stain; it would then spin back around to deal with it, which would leave more foam behind it, which it would read as a stain, and it got stuck in a stain removal loop to the point I had to send it back to the dock manually.

On one hand, this may be my fault for not using Dyson's own solution. On the other, it's poor form that you're forced to spend more on a very specific product to not have to suffer poor performance. Plus, I've never had this problem using my own solution with any other robot vacuum-mop I've tested, so it's hugely disappointing.

After mopping, floors were left slightly damp but not soaked on the default hydration settings, but you can increase or reduce how much water is used in the app. In most cases, they were dry enough to walk on comfortably within five minutes, albeit a bit sticky.

Over several weeks of testing, I found myself actively avoiding using the mopping feature on the Dyson and mopping manually more often, which is far from ideal.

Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai: Maintenance

One of the main reasons to buy a robot vacuum is to cut down on day-to-day chores rather than add to them, and the Spot+Scrub Ai is a mixed result on that front.

Most routine maintenance is meant to be handled by the dock. After each run, it empties the dustbin, washes the wet roller to stop odor and dries it with warm air automatically. During my tests, the roller always came out clean and dry and never damp or musty.

Hair management is also good, helped by the anti-tangle design on the main brush bar. With a dog in the house and my long hair, I still needed to check the brush bar every couple of weeks and pull out the odd wrapped strand by hand, rather than never touching it at all but it was minimal.

Day-to-day, the clean and dirty water tanks are easy to lift out and refill, but the dustbin itself is trickier, and I had to watch a video to work out how to empty it – it's very easy once you know how, but it's not immediately obvious.

The bin and filter assembly pops up from a hinged panel on top of the robot with a gentle press, and both the robot's filter and the docking station's filter can be rinsed under a tap and left to dry for 24 hours before refitting. The wet roller and brush bar slide out in a similar way, each released by a button or tab rather than anything more involved.

Dyson recommends washing filters monthly and replacing the water filter in the dock annually, and the MyDyson app doesn't yet flag these reminders automatically in the way some rival robot vacuums do, so it's on you to keep track in the Product Settings menu.

It does, however, let you order replacement parts from the app, and because knowing how to clean a robot vacuum is key to extending its lifespan, this is a welcome touch.

Overall, maintenance sits somewhere between hands-off and hands-on. Topping up water, emptying the dirty tank, and the occasional hair check are unavoidable, but the dock does handle the bulk of the day-to-day work without intervention. For a robot at this price, that's about what I'd expect, even if it isn't quite as effortless as the most hands-off robots on the market.

How Does the Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai Compare?

Against the eufy Omni S1 Pro, our current favorite robot vacuum, the Spot+Scrub Ai's biggest advantage is its dock, which stores debris for up to 100 days versus the eufy's 60. That means longer stretches between having to manually empty the bin. The eufy edges it on overall vacuuming and mopping consistency, though, and fewer of the stain-detection quirks I encountered.

The Roborock Saros Z70 sits at a similar level but takes a different approach, using a mechanical arm to physically pick up socks, tissues, and other small objects from the floor. It's a novel answer to a problem the Spot+Scrub Ai still hasn't solved, given how it treated cereal more like an obstacle than a mess during my tests.

For a more direct mop comparison, the Dreame Aqua 10 Roller offers stronger suction on paper at 30,000 Pa against the Dyson's 18,000 Pa, along with a longer-running self-cleaning system that I found much more dependable on tougher stains. The Dreame Aqua 10 Roller is my go-to robot vacuum at home when I'm not reviewing alternative models, which says a lot about how highly I rate it.

Alternatively, if budget is the priority, the Shark PowerDetect 2-in-1 costs less but still offers a capable clean across both vacuuming and mopping. It doesn't match the Spot+Scrub Ai's hair pickup on carpet, but for homes without pets that gap may not justify Dyson's premium.

How I Tested the Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai

I used the Spot+Scrub Ai as my main robot vacuum for four weeks, running it across hard flooring and carpet, with a dog, children, and the usual day-to-day mess that comes with both.

Alongside daily cleans, I ran our standardized vacuum tests, scattering a quarter cup each of sugar, lentils, and cereal on both hard floor and carpet to assess fine, medium, and large debris pickup, and setting two stains, ketchup and mustard, on hard flooring to test the mopping function.

I tracked how the robot navigated my home, how it handled the dock's self-cleaning and self-emptying cycles, and how the MyDyson app held up across day-to-day scheduling, room management, and cleaning history.

Next, learn how to choose the best vacuum for every home and budget.

I'll admit, I never cared much for coffee. Until a few years ago, I could barely tolerate the smell, so I didn't think an espresso machine would become one of my favourite new kitchen appliances.

Living with a tiny kitchen meant my coffee-loving partner relied on a kettle and a moka pot for years. However, the arrival of the Ninja Luxe Café Mini Espresso Machine finally lets us upgrade without sacrificing precious counter space, and my first impressions have certainly been lasting ones.

This isn't a full review (I'm still putting it through its paces), but after spending a few days with the machine, I think it might be a contender for one of the best espresso machines out there. Here's what has stood out so far.

Having rarely tried to make espresso at home, when it first came to testing a full espresso machine, I was hesitant. They look complicated, and like too much work for the first thing in the morning.

However, the Ninja Luxe™ Café Mini really lives up to its claim of removing the guesswork from making coffee at home, whether you want espresso, drip, or over ice.

The machine comes with everything you need besides beans and water to get started, including a water hardness test kit, which allows you to program your appliance for custom descaling and cleaning warnings.

From there, it weighs your portafilter, decides the best grind size, grinds, and brews for you. The AutoFroth steamer wand even foams milk to the perfect thickness for everything from lattes to cappuccinos without manual intervention. It felt more like playing with a very well-crafted toy than work, so much so that I get excited making coffee for others, and am even tempted to try some myself (although I may be adding some syrups for that).

At 30% smaller than its predecessor, the Ninja Luxe Cafe Pro we reviewed last year, it has found an easy home on my counter. It tucks neatly into a corner of my small kitchen without getting in the way of my everyday organization and prep work. I am usually reluctant to give up space to appliances, given how little of it there is, but this has proven to be a worthy addition.

I simply cannot wait to show it off to friends and guests.

What Else to Shop

From beautifully hand-crafted coffee cups to stunning syrup bottles, these hand-picked coffee station essentials are perfect for elevating your home coffee routine to a café-quality ritual.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which setting is best for you? We have broken down the key differences between espresso and drip coffee to help you find the best brew.

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I rarely find that ultra-expensive cookware is worth the price. I’ve tested plenty of budget alternatives that come surprisingly close in performance.

That said, the Le Creuset Signature Dutch Oven is a clear exception. It’s one of the few pieces I would happily pay full price for again. With the Factory to Table sale offering up to 40% off select chef essentials, it’s an unusually good opportunity to invest.

I don't think I have ever seen this best non-toxic cookware so affordable, and in such iconic colors, too.

I reviewed the Le Creuset Modern Heritage Dutch Oven back in March of this year, and it has sat proudly on my stove ever since. It is one of my most versatile pieces of cookware; I rely on it for everything from soups and stews to pastas, and it gets every guest talking, whether they are visiting for dinner or just a quick coffee catch-up.

When it comes to choosing the best cookware, you can rarely do better. That is why the Factory to Table sale has my attention. I have rarely seen such classic pieces discounted so heavily, especially in the most iconic colors. Now, the Factory to Table Sale is bringing some of the biggest discounts you will find all year, expanding on the famous in-person ticketed warehouse event, without the physical shoving that comes with it.

From Traditional Deep Round Skillets to Roaster Sets, it has everything you need to outfit your kitchen in non-toxic enameled cast iron.

It has become a cult kitchen classic thanks to its combination of heirloom-quality materials, manufacturing, and durability. With a cast iron core designed for superior heat retention and a glass enamel coating that protects against rust and pitting, it is easy to care for, non-reactive, and cooks extremely evenly when heated slowly. It is reliable and unbeatable when it comes to excellence.

As if the sale wasn't enough, spending over $250 on the Le Creuset site in July entitles you to a free care kit with a brush, soap, and stacking felts to keep your pans in top condition for years to come. It makes cleaning and caring for your cookware a breeze.

Shop the Le Creuset Factory to Table Sale

Still not quite ready to spend Le Creuset prices, even on sale? We have a full list of the best cast iron cookware to browse, including some choice budget-friendly picks.

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I didn’t expect much out of a portable blender. After all, how helpful could something so small be? I was sorely mistaken. The GreenPan Spin & Go instantly lived up to its name, allowing me to make drinks, smoothies, and the occasional daiquiri quickly and painlessly as a busy mom of five. I was shocked by its versatility, strength, intuitive design, and ease of use right out of the box.

Over three weeks of using this personal blender, it became a go-to kitchen appliance, but a mini-version that I couldn’t live without, replacing bulkier blenders I’ve tested and loved recently.

Here’s why anyone addicted to iced coffee, smoothies, or single-serving cooking should consider this product.

Product Specifications: GreenPan Spin & Go Portable Blender

Design and First Impressions

Unboxing the portable blender is simple and takes just minutes. The designers had mercy on our busy lives and sent it already partially charged, though it’s recommended to charge for a full 70 minutes out of the box.

Of course, like every busy person, I skipped this to see how it would perform upon opening, and got multiple cycles out of it before needing to charge it. From there, the product can perform 15 cycles before needing to be charged for about an hour, which, in my use of the product, meant typically charging it for one hour once per week.

There is little to no setup. You simply open the container, motor, and lid and piece them together with simple directions, such as turning the container to secure it onto the motor.

The product comes in some trendy and pretty colors, including Blueberry, Cream, Seaside, Slate, and Strawberry, to match any preference or kitchen color scheme. At the time of publishing, the product was on sale for around $140, down from the typical price of around $200, suggesting that shoppers in the market for a portable blender should watch for sales on this product.

The product was packaged with some plastic and some recyclable materials, and overall well secured.

Blending Performance

In testing blenders, we put our products through rigorous testing, from chunky ice cubes to sticky ingredients, analyzing how well it will perform across a versatile range of recipes. The settings include: smoothie, crush, clean, blend, or pulse, and each have their purpose and are helpful for different foods and drinks.

Here’s what I found in each test.

The Ice test

Okay, fine, this was actually a daiquiri test. I combined five or six ice cubes with a small premade margarita and a small bowl of frozen strawberries.

I was shocked upon turning on the “crush” setting that all of the ice cubes were obliterated in literal seconds (under 10, to be precise). The blender takes a quick break every five to 10 seconds, which actually seems to help in letting the ingredients settle, just to be shaken up again. Within 15 seconds, the entire daiquiri was made, and all of the ice was smooth in consistency.

The initial few seconds were a bit higher on my decibel meter, in the high 80’s, but nothing stressful or overly unexpectedly loud. After those first few seconds, the sound was less intense.

The Smoothie Test

A thick smoothie consisting of a scoop of protein powder, a 20g protein Greek yogurt, and blueberries was a formidable foe to this small and typically mighty product. It struggled for a bit with getting all the yogurt from the sides of the container, but ultimately prevailed after a little time (still under 30 seconds total).

This test showed that it performs better with some added liquid, whether you are making sauces, smoothies, or dips.

So, in the future, I’ll add a bit of water to the smoothie if I use this product. In the end, it fully mixed the ingredients, with just a single blueberry remaining at the bottom.

The Portability Test

On a busy morning, as I got my kids out the door, I mixed some supplement powders into my coffee with a little ice and milk, a cold treat on a rushed day. This was a small moment of luxury in my busy life, and made me realize that with the right products such as this one, these small indulgences are possible without much extra time or effort.

The portability of the to-go cup meant that I could simply grab it and leave, without a straw (though that works too in the opening) or any cleanup or transferring. This is likely why the pouring spout is pretty small to begin with – it’s really for drinking, not pouring, typically. The only portability issue was that this wider container doesn’t fit into the cupholders of all of my cars. However, it’s still worth the portability to not have to transfer your drink into a to-go cup.

Cleaning and Maintenance