The holidays are quickly approaching, so it’s a good idea to get ahead of the curve and start shopping for gifts now. Electronics and tech gifts are among the most popular during the holidays, so you’ll want to snag some of the hottest items before they sell out.
What makes electronics and tech gadgets such great gifts is their versatility. If you know what the person you’re gifting likes, it’s an easy way to shop for something they can appreciate.
For example, if you know a hardcore gamer, a new console, accessory or even a gaming chair is an excellent gift, while music lovers will appreciate a new soundbar or wireless earbuds. Whether you’re shopping for a tech enthusiast or someone who is overdue for an upgrade, you’ll find ideas here for everyone on your list.
Gaming
When playing on the go, Nintendo fans can enjoy their favorite games on a brighter OLED on the Switch. It has a built-in Ethernet port for a stable internet connection, 64 gigabytes of storage space and a wide adjustable stand for comfortable viewing in tabletop mode.
It’s an expensive gift, but this cutting-edge virtual reality gaming headset offers access to over 350 titles. It has 3D positional audio, hand tracking and haptic feedback for an immersive experience as well as a high-resolution display.
This is a fantastic gift for anyone who couldn’t get their hands on a PS5 after it initially launched. The PS5 offers an immersive experience, thanks to haptic feedback, adaptive triggers and 3D Audio. Plus, there is a library of excellent exclusive and third-party games.
Mario Kart is one of the most popular Nintendo game franchises of all time, and Mario Kart 8 is one of the bestselling Switch games. Players can choose their favorite Mario characters and race them against friends in a multiplayer clash of zany action.
Playing the Switch with Joy-Cons is fine, but the Pro Controller is a must for players who want improved control when playing first-person shooters, fighters, RPGs and platformers. It has an ergonomic design, motion controls, HD rumble and built-in amiibo functionality.
Extended gaming sessions can wreak havoc on a person’s body, so it’s crucial to have a gaming chair like this one. It has a 360-degree swivel, multidirectional wheels and a reclining function that works between 90 and 180 degrees.
This excellent keyboard uses Corsair’s new Ice Blue LED backlighting, matching perfectly with Corsair One. It has three connection methods: 2.4-gigahertz, low-latency Bluetooth and USB. The keyboard incorporates Cherry MX Red key switches with gold contacts and has built-in 128-bit AES encryption.
Unlike other headphones that use a cable to connect to Microsoft’s Xbox One controller, these headphones have integrated Xbox Wireless technology. That means they connect directly to the console. It has 40-millimeter audio drivers, a ClearCast bidirectional microphone and ample padding on the ear cups. The rechargeable battery lasts 20 hours.
Weighing only two ounces, this wireless mouse is one of the lightest you’ll find. It has a 30,000 DPI optical sensor and several buttons that are certified for over 90 million clicks. The rechargeable battery lasts for about 80 hours.
Other top gaming deals
The JBL Quantum 400 Gaming Headphones are a must for competitive gamers.
An Xbox Core Wireless Controller for the Xbox One, Series S and Series X consoles.
The Logitech G502 Wired Gaming Mouse is lightweight and has 11 customizable buttons.
A Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel for playing high-octane racing games.
Help a gamer clear the clutter with a PS5 Stand and Cooling Station.
Ensure that your teammates can hear you clearly with the HyperX QuadCast USB Condenser Gaming Microphone.
Inject some personality into your gaming space with this Japanese Cherry Blossom Gaming Mouse Pad.
Keep all your gaming accessories and headphones charged and organized with this Headphone Stand with USB Charger.
Decorate your gaming area with this Kavaas Gamer Neon Sign of a controller.
Never run out of storage space with this Toshiba Canvio Gaming 1-Terabyte Portable External Hard Drive.
For precise aim and quick movements, the Logitech G502 SE Hero High Performance RGB Gaming Mouse is an excellent choice.
With the Fullpad Large RGB Gaming Mouse Pad, your mouse will have precision movements.
Hear the faintest of sounds in any game with the Astro A10 Gaming Headset Gen 2 Wired Headset.
When speed and accuracy is vital, the RedThunder One Handed Gaming Keyboard is great for split-second controls.
For gaming on the go, this Arzopa 15.6-Inch 144-Hertz Portable Gaming Monitor connects easily to a laptop or console.
Health and fitness gadgets
The Apple Watch 7 is as stylish as it is functional thanks to a crack-resistant front crystal and an IP6X dust-resistance rating. It keeps track of various health and fitness metrics, including blood oxygen levels, heart rate, sleep quality, calories burned and more.
The lightweight build of this smartwatch makes it perfect for those who don’t want to feel burdened by heavy wristwear. It has over 70 integrated sports modes and a 1.55-inch AMOLED display, and it keeps track of sleep monitoring, stress-level monitoring and more.
This Bluetooth bathroom scale has a pregnancy tracker and can sync with Apple Watch and over 100 health and fitness apps. It recognizes up to eight different users, works for up to 18 months and uses position control technology to provide accurate readings.
This intuitive helmet can absorb rotational impact force and takes bike-riding safety to a new level. It has bright front and rear LED lights and comes with a handlebar-mounted remote that riders can use to signal to those around them when and where they’re going to turn.
This eye massager can be a helpful tool for those who aren’t getting good sleep quality. It has built-in heating pads and uses oscillating pressure and rhythmic percussion for reducing eye puffiness, dry eyes and dark circles.
This air purifier uses a HEPA filter and Nano Confined Catalytic Oxidation technology to reduce harmful pollutants in the air. It has a coverage zone of up to 300 square feet and eliminates up to 99% of viruses and bacteria.
Other top health and fitness gadgets
A Flowtime Biosensing Meditation Headband is helpful for relaxation and tracks brain waves in real time.
The Fitbit Charge 5 is lightweight and perfect for those with an active lifestyle.
The Frontier X2 Smart Heart Monitor provides insight into heart health and can spot changes in heart rhythm.
This Vergali Weighted Jump Rope has a digital counter for tracking distance, calories, and rope skips.
A Garmin Edge 530 Performance GPS for mapping cycling and jogging routes.
Tech gifts for listening to music
These affordable headphones offer high-quality sound and active noise-canceling technology to tune out ambient sound. The battery lasts up to 60 hours in standard listening mode, and a five-minute charging session provides up to four hours of listening time.
These earbuds offer surprisingly well-balanced sound and are an excellent bargain pick at a low price. The battery lasts over 10 hours on a full charge, and the hybrid three-layer noise-cancellation dramatically reduces ambient noise.
Hearing the dialogue in TV shows and movies can be challenging for some, but this sound bar makes it easier. It’s 10 inches wide, weighs less than 1 pound, seamlessly connects to TVs with just one wire, and has wide-range speakers for delivering rich sound.
Purists will argue that vinyl records are the ultimate way to listen to music, making this an excellent gift for those with an old collection of classic albums. It has an aluminum tonearm, an adjustable counterweight, and a moving magnet for anti-skate control.
These earbuds have 7-millimeter dynamic audio drivers and active noise cancellation for an immersive listening experience. The battery lasts seven hours on a full charge and can be extended up to 28 hours with the wireless charging case.
If you know someone with an iPhone, the AirPods are an excellent gift. They have active noise cancellation for drowning out unwanted ambient noise, touch controls for managing phone calls and music playback, and quick access to Siri.
These reference-class open-back headphones produce excellent sound quality and low harmonic distortion through improved transducers. The large 50-millimeter drivers are housed in padded ear cups and have a frequency response range of 10-41,000 hertz. It comes with a 3.5-millimeter and 6.5-millimeter connection.
The Powerbeats is a good option for listening to music on a run or walking around the city. It provides you with nine hours of battery life and is completely wireless. The ear hooks are adjustable to ensure a snug fit and are reinforced to protect against sweat and water. While it uses Apple’s H1 internal chip, it is compatible with iOS and Android devices.
These earbuds have powerful 11-millimeter speakers using JBL’s Signature Sound tuning. The adaptive noise cancellation automatically adjusts the volume to your surroundings, while Smart Ambient lets you hear what’s happening. Six beamforming microphones clearly pick up your voice, and through VoiceAware, you can adjust how much of your own voice you hear.
Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean that you can’t listen to music. This winter beanie will keep your head and ears warm while ensuring that the music never stops. It has a built-in battery that lasts up to 25 hours, and the improved Bluetooth technology ensures a stable connection.
If that special someone in your life loves all kinds of music and is still holding on to some cassette tapes, this music gadget is an excellent gift. It converts cassette tapes to MP3 format so they don’t lose audio quality or become damaged with time. It’s compatible with any standard 3.5-millimeter or USB cable.
Other top tech gifts for listening to music
The Sonos Ray Essential Sound Bar ramps up any gaming or movie-watching experience.
An affordable Kunomi Bluetooth Speaker with colorful party lights to liven up the night.
The Echo Dot 5th Gen Smart Speaker is great for listening to music, getting notifications and more.
The JBL Go 3 Bluetooth Speaker offers impressive sound quality for its size and is excellent for traveling.
Beats Fit Pro Earbuds have an Apple H1 chip and stay in your ear even during strenuous workouts.
Spin records like the good old days with the Victrola ’50s Retro Bluetooth Record Player.
Turn any TV or home theater system into a Bluetooth-compatible device with the Isobel Wireless 3.5-Millimeter Audio Adapter.
Never miss a beat with the waterproof Bose SoundLink Color II.
The Holdsound Wireless Headphones turn any device into a wireless transmitter so you can listen to music without cables.
Listen to music without distractions with the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II.
Use the Amazon Echo Link Amp to stream and amplify hi-fi music to your speakers.
Give children the gift of music with this portable 8-gigabyte MP3 player for kids.
Listen to soothing sounds or relaxing beats with this portable under-pillow speaker.
The Amazon Basics USB-Powered Computer Speakers with Dynamic Sound ensure that you are never without a way to listen to your favorite songs.
Hear every beat as the artist intended with the AKG Pro Audio K240 over-ear studio headphones.
Tech gifts for the home office
Whether you work from home or in the office, there will be times when you must destroy sensitive documents. The best option for that is with a paper shredder such as this one. It shreds up to six sheets at a time, up to a maximum of 36 pages per minute. The crosscut shredder has a transparent wastebasket, so you can see when it’s full.
It’s important for your work environment to be as organized as possible, and the cable holder is an excellent choice. It has five slots for various cables, such as mobile phone chargers, network cables and power cords. It is held in place on the table through 3M adhesive tape.
Clean air is vital for a healthy lifestyle and helps your office. This air purifier combines a HEPA-13 filter that captures 99.97% of dust, pollen, smoke, mold and other ultrafine impurities. It filters up to 630 square feet of air per hour and automatically senses the air quality to adjust the fan according to the detected quality.
Just as you need the right tools for your job, you must also be comfortable. This under-the-desk footrest helps reduce back and sciatica pain by giving you proper foot placement. You can adjust the height of the memory foam, or you can flip it over to use it as a gentle rocker.
If you lose power at home, it’s not the end of the world if you are working on a laptop. But if an electrical surge knocks out your electronics, it will have a devastating effect. A surge protector power strip is the best way to prevent that from happening. This model has four USB charging ports, three side outlet extenders, and four outlets on the top. It comes with a 5-foot braided power cable.
Make sure you never miss a call or run out of mobile phone battery with this phone stand. It is made from sturdy metal and has a large cutout for your charging cable. You can rest your device in portrait or landscape mode, which is also great for video calls.
It is critical for your business to take accurate notes, but it could mean going through plenty of notebooks before the year ends. Save on paper and your money with a high-tech solution such as the Rocketbook. This 42-page notebook has seven different page styles for planning, listing, goal setting and note-taking. But the best part is that everything transfers to your mobile phone and you erase the ink by wiping it with a damp cloth.
It’s good to have a space to keep documents and gadgets secure when working in a home office. This filing cabinet is an excellent choice as it has a lockable cupboard and two outlets built into the surface. There are also three USB ports to charge mobile phones.
This Voice-Over-IP phone service is a great option if you don’t want to spend a fortune on landline and mobile calls. The gadget gives you access to the Ooma Telo phone service and is compatible with any handset. It has built-in wireless and Bluetooth connectivity and is easy to install.
Nobody should ever struggle to find a power outlet with this power strip that clamps onto your desk. It has four regular sockets and four USB ports, and the strip sits at an angle for easy access. The clamp adjusts to a maximum width of 2 inches, making it compatible with almost all desks.
Other top tech gifts for the home office
Protect your home office’s hardwood floors with the Home Techpro Office Chair Mat.
This Magnetic Levitating Floating Wireless LED Light Bulb will surely be a talking point.
Ensure you understand and communicate correctly with international clients with the Pocketalk Classic Language Translator Device.
Keep your working surface clean and organized with this Large Desk Pad With Tech Design.
This stylish desk lamp is adjustable so that you always have the best lighting conditions.
Work comfortably from the couch with this Portable Lap Desk with Pillow Cushion.
Ensure your workspace is neat and organized with the Marbrasse Desktop File Organizer.
This Jadens Bluetooth Label Printer helps you to quickly organize your files.
Stay on top of your to-do list with this Glass Desktop Whiteboard Dry-Erase-Board.
Make your mark by keeping your pencils sharp with this Electric Pencil Sharpener.
Phones and accessories
This model phone from Google has a 24-hour battery and a 12-megapixel camera. It’s compatible with any network provider in the U.S. It has a 6.1-inch display with a maximum frame rate of 60 hertz.
The latest mobile phone from Samsung has 512-gigabyte storage, a 6.8-inch display, and a built-in S-Pen for creative drawing or writing. It has a 108-megapixel wide-angle camera lens on the back and a 40-megapixel sensor on the front.
Keeping your eyes on the road is critical when driving and this phone holder is an excellent option. It sticks to your dashboard through an adhesive strip and keeps your device secure in landscape orientation.
Never drop your phone again with the highly popular PopGrip. It has a swappable top so you can change the design, and it secures to the back of your phone with a powerful adhesive. It is compatible with most phone cases.
Ensure all your phones and smart gadgets are charged with this wireless charging station. It is compatible with most Apple and Android mobile phones and can also charge an Apple Watch.
Other top phones and accessories
The Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max features a professional camera system for excellent photos.
Help them keep their phone safe with a strong, durable Otterbox case.
This pro lens kit for their smartphone comes with a wide-angle lens and macro lens for crystal-clear close-ups.
A height-adjustable cellphone stand makes for better video calls and organization.
Tech gifts for the kitchen
This mug is excellent for keeping coffee, tea, and other beverages warm until you’re ready to drink. There’s an auto-sleep function that turns it off when it’s not in use, and the smartphone app can be used to adjust the temperature, customize presets and receive notifications.
This meat thermometer has dual sensors for monitoring internal meat temperatures up to 212 degrees and external temperatures up to 527 degrees. The advanced estimator helps determine how long it takes to cook food, and custom alerts based on temperature and time can be set up.
With a large capacity, coffee lovers can brew up to 10 cups of coffee from coffee beans or powder. This coffee maker has three strength control settings, eight coffee grind control grades, and a button for stopping the grinding function at any time.
This air fryer is loaded with several premium smart features and is a chef’s dream come true. It has a 5.8-quart basket with a nonstick surface and can be controlled through the VeSync app, Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
This Italian-designed electric glass kettle is made of durable stainless steel and has an infuser to get the most out of tea bags and leaves. It has a 30-minute warming function and adjustable temperature control settings for white, green, oolong, and black teas.
This spoon accurately measures how many teaspoons or tablespoons are needed for any recipe. It supports four measurement units and has a tare function for subtracting the weight of a container for precise readings.
Other top tech gifts for the kitchen
Make delicious sandwiches in the morning with the Hamilton Beach Dual Breakfast Sandwich Maker.
A Cheweetty Mini Bag Sealer for vacuum sealing bags to keep food fresh longer.
Cooking delicious frittatas and omelets is a breeze with the Holstein Housewares Omelet & Frittata Maker.
The Maipor Vegetable Chopper makes food prepping easy.
A Betty Crocker Countertop Pizza Maker for baking delicious pizzas with your favorite toppings.
Contributing authors: Kevin Luna and Charlie Fripp.
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]]>Unplanned events sometimes occur, so it’s best to be prepared for an emergency. An emergency radio can be a lifesaver when your phone is out of order, but there are a number of features to look for when buying one.
Multiple power sources
A radio may be no good in an emergency if the battery dies and the only way to charge is at a wall outlet. Access to electricity is scarce in the wilderness, so your emergency radio should have several ways to draw power. The best emergency radios have a rechargeable battery, a solar panel and a hand crank. Some even let you use regular batteries if the rechargeable one dies.
Multiple kinds of channels
For music listening, you want access to FM bands. However, you need a radio that can receive AM and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration signals to get news and weather updates. The best radios have an auto-scan feature that automatically finds the station with the best signal for your area.
Power bank size and life
The larger the battery, the longer the battery life, but radios with rechargeable power banks should last at least six to eight hours on a full charge. Radio power banks can also juice up your smartphone or a small tablet, but this drains power faster.
Radio size
Compact emergency radios are best if you want to travel light, but the battery life isn’t as long as with a large radio. Also, since smaller radios aren’t as powerful, the speaker isn’t as loud, and you may find sound quality somewhat lacking.
LED flashlight
If you want to be prepared for an emergency, a flashlight is essential. It can get very dark in the wilderness, so you always want to have enough light to be aware of your surroundings. It’s best to have a separate flashlight, but most emergency radios have a built-in LED flashlight, which can come in handy if you misplace your flashlight or the battery dies.
Sirens and beacon lights
If you find yourself alone in an emergency, the first thing you want to do is find help. However, it can be difficult to contact others in a desolate area, so you need a way to alert somebody to your presence and location. The best emergency radios have bright beacon lights and can emit a piercing SOS sound to help others locate you in dire situations.
Best emergency radios
Esky Emergency Hand Crank Weather Radio
Receive updates from NOAA and AM/FM stations with this handy weather radio. It has a large 2,000 milliamp-hour battery that can power up your phone, a bright LED flashlight and an SOS alarm. It can be powered with AAA batteries.
iRonsnow Solar Crank Real NOAA Alert Weather Radio with Alarm
This radio lets you activate an alarm to receive updates on disaster weather conditions and warnings. It has a loud siren and a micro SD slot that lets you use it as an MP3 player to play your favorite tunes.
Eton American Red Cross FRX3+ Emergency NOAA Weather Radio
This rechargeable radio has a built-in solar panel and a hand turbine power generator. The alert function broadcasts emergency weather alerts for your area, and the red flashing beacon can catch someone’s attention in the dark from miles away.
Sangean MMR-88 AM/FM/Weather+Alert Solar Hand Crank Emergency Radio
This radio has 19 preset functions, a triple LED light, a USB port for charging your phone and a loudspeaker with an emergency buzzer. It can be powered via a solar panel, rechargeable battery or a hand crank generator.
FosPower 2000mAh NOAA Emergency Weather Radio
If you want an affordable radio with a sleek build and plenty of great features that are useful for emergencies, this radio is an excellent buy. It has three separate power sources, a 2000mAh power bank for juicing up your phone or a small tablet and a loud SOS alarm.
This radio runs for up to eight hours on a full charge and has a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack on the side for private listening. It has a bright beacon light, an SOS alarm and an angle-adjustable reading lamp.
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]]>What is a Beautyblender?
The Beautyblender is a makeup sponge invented in 2003. It has won Allure magazine’s Best of Beauty awards numerous times due to its ability to blend makeup more smoothly than standard brushes. The rounded egg shape helps leave a seamless finish while the pointed end can blend in the under-eye area. The original Beautyblender is a hot-pink egg, but multiple colors, shapes and sizes are available.
How to use a Beautyblender
Squeeze and release the sponge under running water to thoroughly dampen it. This helps keep it from absorbing makeup, which means less product. Apply the foundation with your fingertips first, then use the dampened Beautyblender to blend it out, using a bouncing, blotting motion. This helps makeup spread evenly and gives it a smooth, streak-free, natural-looking finish.
After you’re done applying the makeup, clean the Beautyblender with a liquid brush cleanser and let it air dry.
What you need to know before purchasing a Beautyblender
Even compared to other premium makeup brushes, the Beautyblender isn’t cheap, particularly since it’s recommended to replace them every three to six months. They need to be cleaned regularly — ideally after every use — since the sponge can harbor bacteria. Cleaning the Beautyblender does add another step to the makeup routine, but it’s an important step, and since the Beautyblender makes doing your makeup so quick and easy, you don’t ultimately lose that much time.
The Beautyblender is mainly intended for use with liquid foundation but you can use it to blend out BB cream and tinted moisturizer. It can even be used to achieve a poreless finish with powder foundation or to blend out contouring products.
Where to buy a Beautyblender
The hot-pink latex-free foam expands when wet to smoothly apply makeup for an airbrushed-looking finish.
Other products worth considering
Use this vegan, soy-based liquid cleanser on your Beautyblender sponge daily or soak the sponge to treat stubborn makeup stains.
This cleanser bar is available in three different formulas and comes with a silicone scrubbing mat for deep cleaning.
This ventilated, shatterproof silicone case gives your Beautyblender a secure place to dry while protecting it from grime.
The foam and the shape are different from the Beautyblender, but this wallet-friendly sponge applies makeup almost as easily and seamlessly. It’s a solid choice if you’re not ready to spring for the Beautyblender yet.
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]]>You don’t have to bake cookies or decorate with real pine to make your home smell like a Christmas wonderland. The simplest way to fill your home with holiday fragrances is to light a scented candle.
Whether you love pine, sweet treats, spicy berries or another tempting scent, chances are you’ll find a candle that will emit your favorite holiday aroma into the air as it burns with a warm, inviting glow. The best candles produce potent scents that linger and burn for numerous hours so they’ll last throughout the holiday season and beyond. Another bonus is when you find them on sale, like the 12 delightfully scented candles in our roundup.
Holiday scents to look for in candles
While there are no rules about which scents are appropriate for the holidays, certain popular aromas come to mind when this time of year rolls around. They can be classified as sweet, spicy, earthy or fruity. Additionally, many scented candles that are designed for the holidays have a combination of notes from one or more of the categories for a nicely balanced fragrance.
Sweet
When you think of the sweet family of holiday fragrances, delicious Christmas-time treats come to mind. Peppermint, vanilla, cocoa, gingerbread and sugar are some of the most popular notes used to produce these enticing scents.
Spicy
Some spices are warm, fragrant and perfect for the holidays. They are found in delicacies like sugar plums, cider and pumpkin pie. When a candle is scented with spices such as cloves, mint, cinnamon, anise and ginger, it fills a room with the aromas of the season.
Earthy
There’s nothing quite like the scent of evergreen during the holidays. That’s why many seasonal candles are infused with pine and balsam. Some candles in this category also contain sage, bayberry, holly, nuts or cedarwood.
Fruity
Holiday candles with fruity notes are light and pleasant. Berry, citrus, pumpkin, apple, pear and cranberry all deliver a lovely smell for the holiday season.
Types of scented candles
Votive, pillar and taper candles can all be found in scented forms. However, jar scented candles are by far the most popular. They also stand out for providing long burn times, as some models can provide more than 150 hours of luscious scents.
Wicks of scented candles
Ideally, the wick of a candle will burn slowly and won’t produce a lot of smoke or contaminants. Most well-made candles by top brands have wicks that are made of cotton or other quality materials. While many scented candles have single wicks, some larger models have two, three, four or more wicks.
Best scented candles for the holidays
This three-wick candle smells like mulled cider, a classic hot beverage of the holiday season. Hints of cinnamon, apple and cloves give it a warm, inviting fragrance. It’s made of a beeswax blend and contains fragrant essential oils for a clean burn.
Who doesn’t love the smell of Christmas cookies fresh out of the oven? This candle mimics that delightful scent with notes of cinnamon, butter, nutmeg, vanilla and sugar. It’s a large paraffin wax candle that will burn for up to 150 hours.
Made by hand, the Holiday Forest candle delivers the fragrance of fresh pine. It’s a well-made pillar candle with a bright green color that looks great on a candle plate or pedestal-style holder.
It’s a combination of balsam, spices, berries, vanilla and more that gives this jar candle the smell of the holiday season. It’s made of a quality soy wax blend that will burn for as long as 100 hours.
Gingerbread is an ideal scent for the holidays, and this jar candle will make your place smell as if you just baked a batch. Ginger, cinnamon, clove and vanilla are the notes that make it so irresistible. It’s constructed of quality wax and will burn as long as 150 hours.
A soy-blend wax and essential oils make it possible for Star Hollow Candles to burn clean and produce pleasant scents for many hours. If you want a candle that makes you think of candy canes, the brand’s peppermint stick jar candle is for you.
This is another beeswax-based candle that is scented with essential oils. It has a bayberry fragrance that’s a holiday tradition and includes notes of patchouli, balsam and vanilla. It has three wicks and burns for more than 50 hours.
Not sure which scent you want to fill your home with during the holidays? The Snow Globe Wonderland candle has you covered with an interesting blend of scents that are sweet, spicy, fruity and earthy. It includes berry, praline, nutmeg, holly, anise, mint and more. It burns clean, thanks to the soy-based wax.
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]]>However, making my daily coffee in the Bialetti Moka Pot has not only helped me save money but also introduced me to a delicious new morning ritual. With a little trial and error, I’ve learned how to make my own espresso-style coffee in a gadget that costs a fraction of the price of an espresso machine.
You probably recognize the design of the Moka Pot, but if you’ve never experienced it for yourself, I recommend giving it a try. If you want to save some money on your coffee, or if you’re looking to experiment with how you prepare it, here’s everything you need to know about the Italian gadget that brought coffee from the café into the everyday home.
What is the Bialetti Moka Pot?
The Bialetti Moka Pot is a stovetop percolator-style coffee maker usually made out of aluminum or stainless steel. Rather than plugging into the wall, it makes espresso-like coffee on your stovetop and uses steam pressure to force water through a strainer. The coffee it produces isn’t quite espresso (you’d need an actual espresso machine for that), but it’s definitely stronger and more concentrated than drip or French press coffee, and it produces smaller serving sizes than the average coffee maker. Because Moka Pot coffee is quite strong, it is often compared to espresso, especially for those looking for that strong jolt in the morning.
The Moka Pot gained worldwide popularity after World War II, and the design has become so iconic it’s even displayed in museums.
How the Bialetti Moka Pot works
With its steam pressure coffee extraction system, water in the Moka Pot’s lower chamber heats and rises through loosely-packed fine coffee grounds to produce flavorful, smooth coffee. Since the coffee grounds don’t have to pass through any filters, the flavor stays richer and stronger. Brewing only takes about four to five minutes. For an at-home coffee shop experience, use a milk frother on some warmed milk, then pour it over a cup of your brewed coffee.
What you need to know before purchasing the Bialetti Moka Pot
I find using a Moka Pot to be very satisfying, but learning to use one takes a little trial and error. I had to read a few user guides online to figure out how finely ground my coffee should be (finer than drip coffee, coarser than espresso), how long it should brew and more. I also tried a few other tricks, like brewing the coffee with hot water instead of cold to avoid a metallic taste. If you enjoy the hands-on process of making your morning coffee, a stovetop method like the Moka Pot will give you an enjoyable start to your day and a satisfying cup of coffee.
Depending on how much effort you want to put into your coffee, some of the things I consider perks, like the multistep brewing experience, might be viewed as drawbacks to others. Two potentially significant drawbacks are that the Moka Pot can’t be used on an induction cooktop, and it must be hand-washed. Altogether, though, the Moka Pot has several distinct advantages over espresso machines, chiefly the low price point and the quality of the coffee. It’s also faster to clean, small enough for easy storage and much more low-maintenance than the average espresso machine or large coffee pot.
Where can you buy the Bialetti Moka Pot?
The original Moka Pot is made in Italy and offers a 3-cup capacity. It’s constructed from aluminum with multiple finishes available and features an ergonomic handle. (Other sizes are also available.)
Featuring an elegant, slimmer, design, this 6-cup coffee maker is made from stainless steel and can be used on induction cooktops.
Other products worth considering
Featuring a classic design almost identical to the Bialetti, this lightweight moka pot offers a 3-cup capacity and comes in a variety of colors. Like the original, it shouldn’t go through the dishwasher.
This modern 6-cup stovetop espresso maker boasts safety features like a larger rubber handle and a silicone gasket. GROSCHE also donates safe drinking water with every purchase.
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]]>Hanging Christmas lights can be a daunting task. Depending on your enthusiasm for the holidays, your home can be adorned with anywhere from a modest 100 lights running just along the edge of the eaves to over 4,000 lights, delineating everything from windows and doors to decks, fencing and trees.
Since every home features different light-hanging challenges, here’s a basic strategy to ensure you’ll have the best-looking lights with minimal effort and zero frustrations.
Before you begin hanging
Before you begin decorating, there are a few quick tasks you’ll want to complete that will help ensure that hanging lights goes as smoothly as possible.
Create a plan
Before hanging your first string, take a step back and look at your house. Consider the possible light-hanging locations. Look for a focal point on your home — an area where you want people’s eyes to settle on. While this isn’t necessary, it gives your decorating purpose rather than just being a chaotic attempt to get as many lights on your home as possible.
Measure
You will want to measure your house so you know exactly how many lights you need. Find out how many feet it takes to go across the entire front of your home, along your porch railing and around every door and window. If you measure every aspect of your house, you can make a file and save it on your computer so you never have to measure it again.
Evaluate your needs
If you want to save time and frustration, this is the most important step. With a lighting plan in place and measurements taken, you will know exactly how many strings of lights you will need and what kind of fastening challenges you will face. Use this information to make a list of supplies — everything from lights to timers.
Check your lights
If you have lights and supplies that you used last year, now is the time to check them. Do all the strings still work? Have any clips become brittle? Have you permanently misplaced anything? Is there anything that can be repaired instead of replaced? Match these up to your list of supplies to learn what you still need.
Go shopping
If you make your shopping list early, it gives you time to take advantage of sales events, such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Additionally, you can sign up to receive BestReviews’ emails so you will always be aware of new products and upcoming deals.
Tips for hanging Christmas lights
Start from the top
There are many strategies for hanging Christmas lights. A surefire strategy is starting at the top and moving your way down. This is desirable because the ground needs to be clear where you are working. You don’t want to risk getting your ladder tangled in a string of lights or accidentally dropping something that could damage the work you’ve already done.
Employ nondestructive hanging techniques
Any time you hammer a nail into the exterior of your home, you are damaging it. While this may have been acceptable in the past, with modern methods of hanging Christmas lights, it is simply unnecessary. For instance, you can wrap lights around the outside channel of a window, use a glue gun to affix lights directly to a brick surface, attach magnetic clips to metallic surfaces or take advantage of Command clips to hang lights around your door.
Utilize clips
The best, easiest and fastest way to hang Christmas lights is to use clips. These items are available in a wide variety of shapes and styles that can be attached to gutters, shingles, decks and more. They are non-destructive and can be installed without tools. These clips can even be repositioned if needed.
Utilize ground stakes
If you do not like the idea of attaching your Christmas lights directly to your home, or you’d like to illuminate a walkway or driveway, consider using light stakes. Light stakes are pushed in the ground for simple installation.
Use floodlights
Floodlights are another popular decorating option. You can use floodlights to illuminate the entire exterior of your house for the holidays. Depending on the type you buy, these time-saving items can display colors or scenes, such as falling snow or flying reindeer.
Items you need to hang Christmas lights
These 16 clear light clips are designed for all seasons. They fasten securely but can be easily removed, leaving behind no residue. They are UV- and water-resistant.
This is a pack of 100 versatile clips that can be used on gutters or shingles. They are manufactured to hold C6 lights, C7 lights, C9 lights, mini lights and icicle lights.
This set of 100 8.5-inch yard stakes has been designed to hold all sizes of string lights. They are easy to install, and they elevate your lights off of the ground so they can always be seen, even in a few inches of snow.
If you’re looking for a traditional string of C7 incandescent Christmas lights, this is your answer. These lights are designed to remain lit, even if one breaks or burns out.
For a magical Christmas display, consider these icicle lights. There are 360 lights in a pack, and they can be set to eight different display modes.
If miniature lights are more your style, these multicolored LED lights are a solid choice. You can connect up to 44 strings together, and each energy-efficient bulb provides up to 25,000 hours of use.
This two-pack of color-changing outdoor floodlights can produce 16 million different colors. They have 20 lighting modes that can be controlled remotely via your smartphone.
This is a basic, affordable and reliable outdoor mechanical timer. It is programmable in 15-minute intervals with 48 setting options over a 24-hour period.
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]]>Refinishing hardwood floors can be an exciting and rewarding project if you plan everything properly. You have to consider various factors and make preparations to ensure you do the job well.
From finding the right tools to safety equipment, this guide will give you all the necessary information to help you refinish your hardwood floors the right way.
Best safety gear for refinishing your hardwood floor
Your personal safety should be the number one priority when refinishing your hardwood floor. It’s always a good idea to take the necessary precautions when working on any home improvement project to sure your own and others’ safety. These are some of the safety essentials you’ll need to refinish your hardwood floor.
Work gloves
These gloves are strong and flexible, which provides both safety and comfort while you work. They come with extra padding for your knuckles and palms and are also affordable.
Sturdy boots
You’ll need to wear a pair of tough boots for most household projects. The same goes for refinishing hardwood floors. These boots have a leather body and a rubber sole, which makes them slip-resistant and suitable for working in a variety of conditions. They’ll also help you avoid stray nails and chemical spills.
Safety glasses
Safety glasses keep your eyes safe from all kinds of potential hazards. These glasses come with clear lenses that will protect your eyes without blocking your vision while you work.
Dust mask
This is a great dust mask that can protect you from dust particles and chemical vapors alike. It also comes with adjustable head straps for extra comfort.
Hearing defenders
Vanderfields NR35X2 Compact Foldable Portable Earmuffs
Refinishing hardwood floors can be very loud, so make sure you have a pair of hearing defenders to protect your ears during the process. These earmuffs are great for blocking out noises from woodworking tools and other machinery. They’re also lightweight and have ear cushions for a snug fit.
Work knee pads
To clean your wooden floors with a rag and mineral spirits, you’ll need to get down on your hands and knees. These knee pads have thick foam padding and a soft gel cushion to protect your knees and ensure maximum comfort while you work
Best floor refinishing tools
Hammer
You’ll need a good hammer to address any loose nails before you start refinishing so that you can get a smooth finish. This hammer is perfectly suited for home improvement projects. It has a solid handle which makes it easy to grip and is also equipped with anti-vibration technology for added safety and efficiency.
Plastic sheeting
These sheets will protect your walls and furniture from dust particles and unexpected spills.
You can hold your plastic sheeting in place with this scotch tape for a more effective covering.
Random orbital sander
This random orbital sander is a great choice for refinishing your hardwood floor because it is easy to use and safely removes stains without causing damage. It is lightweight and very easy to move around due to it being cordless. This sander is also very beginner-friendly.
Sandpaper
You’ll need three types of sandpaper to refinish your hardwood floor, which are rough grit, medium grit and fine grit. This sandpaper pack has everything you will need to get the job done. Rough grit sandpaper is coarse and suitable for shaping rough edges and removing previous finishes. The medium grit variety comes second and scrubs off any leftovers. Fine sandpaper is used for final sanding before a finish is applied.
Floor finish
This is an oil-based finish, so it’s easy to apply and doesn’t dry too quickly. Use a natural bristle brush to apply the finish around the walls and a wool roller cover to spread it on larger sections of the floor.
Best equipment for cleaning up after refinishing
After you’re done refinishing your hardwood floor, you’ll need to clean up any messes or spills you may have made. Here are a few cleaning supplies to stock up on.
Dust mop
This mop is great for cleaning dust off of large surfaces. It has a rotating head, which makes it easier to tackle dirt in hard-to-reach areas. It’s also effective for sweeping up pet hair.
Vacuum cleaner
You can use a vacuum cleaner to quickly remove dust and dirt left behind after refinishing. This is a top choice because it’s cordless and easy to maneuver. It captures the smallest dust particles and allergens as well. It also has great battery life.
Mineral spirits
For a more thorough cleaning process, you should wipe down the wood with a rag soaked in mineral spirits. This product is effective in cleaning out dirt and stains without damaging your floor.
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]]>And which article of clothing is best for delivering a themed look that isn’t overbearing? Socks. They add just enough of a splash to be the perfect application of the “less is more” approach.
Holidays
Almost every month brings with it holidays you can theme your socks after, though some are better-known and more frequently celebrated than others.
January: New Year’s Day (1/1) and Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday).
February: Groundhog Day (2/2), Valentine’s Day (2/14), Presidents Day (third Monday), Leap Day (2/29 in years divisible by four) and Super Bowl Sunday (varies)
March: St. Patrick’s Day (3/17).
April: April Fools’ Day (4/1) and Earth Day (4/22).
May: “Star Wars” Day (5/4), Cinco de Mayo (5/5), Mother’s Day (second Sunday) and Memorial Day (last Monday).
June: Juneteenth (6/19) and Father’s Day (third Sunday).
July: Independence Day (7/4).
August: Poor August. It’s the only month without any major holidays.
September: Labor Day (first Monday) and Grandparents’ Day (first Sunday after Labor Day).
October: Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day (second Monday) and Halloween (10/31).
November: Dia de los Muertos (11/1-2), Veterans Day (11/11) and Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday).
December: Christmas Eve/Christmas Day (12/24-25) and New Year’s Eve (12/31).
Length
Holiday socks come in the same lengths as any other type of sock.
No-show socks come roughly 1 to 1.5 inches up from the foot. This is an unusual length for holiday-themed socks as you usually want to show off the designs, but they’re still an option if you want to keep your celebration to yourself.
Ankle socks come roughly 2 to 3 inches up from the foot. They’re also unusual, for the same reasons as no-shows.
Micro-crew socks come roughly 2 to 5 inches up from the foot. They’re most commonly found in hiking socks. As holiday-themed socks aren’t typically known for being the highest quality and since hiking socks need to be in top shape to protect your feet, you’ll struggle mightily to find holiday-themed socks in this length.
Quarter socks come roughly 4 to 6 inches up from the foot. While they still show more than no-shows and ankles, quarter socks continue the “too small to be worth it” issue that makes finding holiday-themed socks in this length a trial.
Crew socks come roughly 6 to 8 inches up from the foot. This is the unofficial standard sock length, as most socks default to it. It’s by far the easiest length to find holiday-themed designs in.
Mid-calf socks come roughly 10 to 12 inches up from the foot. This length is most common in dress socks, a category mostly marketed toward men. You can find low-, average- and high-quality holiday-themed socks in equal measure in this length, so carefully examine them before buying.
Knee-high socks come roughly 17.5 to 18 inches up from the foot. This length is mainly marketed toward women to pair with skirts and the like, though thick versions are also available for cold-weather conditions for anyone. Since they’re meant for display, many holiday-themed designs are available.
Thigh-high socks come roughly 24 to 32 inches up from the foot. This length is also marketed mainly toward women and is also meant for display.
Size
Socks, holiday-themed or no, come in size ranges that match standard shoe sizing. This means, for example, that one pair fits men’s sizes 8 to 10 while another fits women’s sizes 3 to 6.
Quantity included
Holiday-themed socks typically come in single pairs. However, some come in sets with each pair usually being a different design, still tied to the same holiday.
Best holiday-themed socks
These six pairs of warm fuzzy socks sport designs such as snowmen, reindeer and Santa Claus. They’re meant to be worn sans shoes, making them perfect for celebrating at home.
On the thick side, perfect for keeping warm on the cold day in question, these are decorated with bursting fireworks and the words “Happy New Year!” They come in one-size-fits-most for both men’s (size 5.5 to 10) and women’s (size 7.5 to 12) body types.
This collection of knee-high socks includes nine pairs, each with a different design. They are made of a cotton-and-polyester blend and come in a themed gift box.
This solo pair of socks is crew length and comes in either men’s size 7 to 12 or men’s size 13 to 17. It has reinforced heels and toes.
This pair of socks shows multiple globes dotting the surface so you don’t forget that you’re part of a whole, and you should do your part to care for the only blue marble we’ve got.
This collection includes five pairs of ankle socks, each sporting a different character: C3PO, R2-D2, Chewbacca, Darth Vader and a stormtrooper. And you don’t even have to wait till “Star Wars” Day (May the Fourth, in case you didn’t get the joke) to wear them.
Juneteenth has long been a celebrated holiday, though it only became an official federal holiday in June 2021. These socks fit men’s sizes 6 to 12 and women’s sizes 7 to 13.
Independence Day is a loud holiday with all the fireworks and whatnot. You need loud socks to match it, and these thigh-high American flag socks are the ones. They even come with matching gloves.
This spooky set of four pairs of differently patterned thigh-high socks is perfect for those who want to change their outfit from one party to another.
The main struggle of Thanksgiving is finding the energy to get up for the next plate of food. These socks beckon a loved one to sacrifice their food coma comfort for your sake, and that’s True Love with capital letters.
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]]>If you want to up your game in the kitchen this season, make cooking simple with smart technology and bring out your inner top chef. There is a wide choice of devices ranging from large appliances, like refrigerators and stoves, to smaller gadgets, such as speakers and scales, all of which help take the guesswork and hassle out of the cooking experience while delivering an updated and modern look.
Best Bluetooth-compatible speakers
Transform the ordinary with this under-cabinet speaker that can connect to any smartphone, tablet or other device that supports Bluetooth technology. It is designed to fit under any size of cabinet and deliver quality sound without taking up any precious counter space. FM radio is also included with 20 presets and a clock with an optional alarm to keep your recipes from overcooking. It comes with the hardware of only three spacers and three screws included for easy installation.
If you’re looking for something a bit more on the budget-friendly side, try this music system with built-in speakers, which is just as effective for creating a less cluttered kitchen space. In addition, the LED screen comes equipped with a digital clock that’s also synced with Alexa with the bonus of voice command technology and built-in Wi-Fi. Others can enjoy the tunes with multi-room play as well.
Best Bluetooth-compatible smart refrigerators
If you’d like to keep your household connected, look no further than the Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator. The 21.5-inch touch-screen display operates much like a fixed tablet. It has four different cooling zones that operate independently, and its memo feature lets you type, draw or voice memo a note on the refrigerator door via an app. Even if your household members are in different parts of the world, they can still post pictures of themselves on the refrigerator like a new-age magnet and Polaroid. What’s more, through the three cameras, you can peer inside the refrigerator in case you are in the grocery store and can’t remember what is left at home. You can even take pictures of items, digitally label them with names and expiration dates and set up notifications to remind you of what’s needed. Finally, you can pull up your favorite kitchen channels through the built-in internet browser. Or if you have a recent Samsung phone, you can mirror your screen onto the display. All this while never sacrificing the functionality of the refrigerator itself.
While this refrigerator may not have an advanced touch screen, it makes up for it in plenty of other ways. It has a super-cool feature of knocking twice on the glass to have a live look into your refrigerator. You can receive notifications on your smartphone when the door is left open or if the water filter needs replacement. Moreover, you can control refrigerator and freezer temperatures remotely, even voice command some extra ice, all through the free LG SmartThinQ app. Finally, its unique, advanced freshness system provides a steady supply of cold air, keeping ingredients fresher for longer. LG made no exception for their water dispenser with an NSF-certified pharmaceutical water filter.
Best Bluetooth-compatible smart ovens
This large 6-cubic-feet oven can fit multiple dishes at one time and has four additional settings, including Bread Proof, Dehydrate, Keep Warm and Favorite Cook. It delivers crispy flavor fast with no preheating. Another amazing quality is the self-cleaning feature that promises nothing more than a wipe from a damp cloth. It also offers Wi-Fi and voice-enabled commands, which allow you to preheat, monitor and adjust the time and temperature of your oven from wherever you are using your smartphone.
This 5.8-cubic-feet-capacity oven gives you more space to cook bigger meals without cramping it up. It boasts a self-cleaning feature, and its center burner can double as a griddle. The LG’s InstaView window lets you see inside your oven without losing precious heat by opening the door or having to reach over a hot cooktop to flip a switch. All you need to do is simply knock twice and have a clear view of what’s inside — all with a beautiful blue interior.
Best Bluetooth-compatible smart kitchen gadgets
A super-advanced cooking method used by the world’s top chefs is now delivered to you with this appliance. Sous vide is French for “under vacuum,” which uses the process of vacuum-sealing food in a bag and then cooking it to a very precise temperature in a water bath. Step-by-step instructions and controls are delivered through the application, making it easy to cook like a pro.
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]]>The plaid shirt is a fall and winter staple. Typically long-sleeved and made from flannel, plaid shirts are cozy and warm. While the pattern is casual, a plaid button-up can be worn to work in business casual settings. Wearing one unbuttoned over a T-shirt is a stylish, everyday look. Plaid shirts are also great for outdoor excursions, such as camping.
What’s the difference between plaid and flannel?
Plaid shirts and flannel shirts are often used interchangeably. However, plaid refers to a pattern and flannel to a type of fabric. The confusion stems from the fact that many plaid shirts are made of flannel. Plaid is a print formed by crisscrossing lines in various widths and colors. You can find non-flannel shirts in this pattern.
What are plaid shirts made from?
Plaid shirts are made of several kinds of fabric:
Cotton: Cotton plaid shirts made of lightweight weaves — such as poplin or dress shirts — have a crisp, smooth texture. Flannel cotton shirts have a soft weave with a subtle, fuzzy finish that’s woven to retain heat. In general, cotton shirts are breathable. Over time and washes, cotton flannel becomes softer, though it can wear out.
Cotton/polyester blend: A plaid shirt made from a cotton/polyester blend is also breathable but more durable than cotton due to the synthetic threads. It’s also less likely to shrink in the wash. You can find polyester blends with flannel finishes, which feel soft and cozy for cooler weather. There are also 100% polyester plaid shirts.
Wool: Wool is the traditional material used in flannel shirts. Woolen plaid shirts are heavyweight and can be worn as outerwear in mild cold weather, often over a base layer. The material is naturally breathable, a great insulator and repels moisture. A long-sleeved woolen shirt will keep you cool when you sweat but warm on a cold day.
How to wear a plaid shirt
Plaid shirts offer a versatile look and can be dressed up or down. If you have an active job, a flannel plaid shirt is softer and roomier than a dress shirt, which can constrict movement. Most plaid shirts are button-up and feature collars. Tuck it in if you work in an office. Untuck it and unbutton a few buttons for socializing after work.
You can wear a plaid shirt with jeans, khakis, corduroys and skirts. Aim to match your undershirt or bottoms with a complementary color or with the color elements in the plaid.
Plaid shirts are usually separated into “men’s” and “women’s” categories, but this just refers to the cut of the shirt. You can wear whatever category of shirt you’re most comfortable with.
Price
Most plaid shirts cost between $14-$100. Wool plaid shirts can cost well over $100.
Best plaid shirts
Best plaid shirts for women
This is a lightweight, attractive plaid shirt that features roll-tab sleeves so you can wear them three-quarters length. The red plaid looks cute paired with a red tank top underneath or can be worn buttoned up for the holiday season.
This cotton flannel comes in 19 plaids. It’s great for layering or wearing standalone. The chambray lining at the cuffs and collars is a nice touch.
Dokotoo Women’s Corduroy Button-Down Shirt
This oversized button-down can be worn as a light jacket. The flannel material is thick without being bulky and will keep you warm and stylish.
This classic plaid flannel features a slim, feminine cut if you’re not into the boxy look. The all-cotton material has an authentic thick, soft feel, like wool without the itchiness or high price.
Best plaid shirts for men
This high-quality flannel shirt can be worn tucked or untucked. The soft cotton is lightweight, features a little stretch and comes in attractive plaids.
This is roomy, warm flannel you can wear days in a row. The triple-stitched seams and durable cotton can be worn for work and in the great outdoors.
For a classic lumberjack look, this fleece shirt comes in a variety of buffalo plaid colors. It’s perfect for a cozy campfire.
Available in over three dozen colors, there’s a plaid for everyone with this shirt. It has everything you could ask for in a flannel: softness, durability, extra length and warmth.
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Ana Sanchez writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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