EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$63.99 at Amazon

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

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

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

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

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

It doesnt come with a strap, which makes it hard to hold, explains Product Tester Annamarie Higley. By nature, metal detectors have to be held at sort of an awkward angle, so without a strap as a counter, holding becomes very tiring on the forearm very quickly.

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

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

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

Since cleaning is an integral part of home maintenance, we spend much of our time reviewing cleaning products at Family Handyman. In 2024 alone, we performed hundreds of tests, collected thousands of data points and tried dozens of brands. From vacuums for pet hair and stain removers to stick vacuums and steam cleaners, we spent countless hours ensuring the top cleaning tools were worth the money.

At the top of our list is the Bissell Little Green Machinewhich were officially declaring the best cleaning product of 2024. Heres what you need to know about this little machine.

What’s so special about the Bissell Little Green Machine?

The Bissell Little Green is a portable carpet and upholstery cleaner that weighs less than ten pounds. It can be carried around to tackle any mess in any corner of the house, and its footprint is compact, too. Its a little over 17 inches wide and 12.5 inches tall, and it has a depth of about eight inches, so it easily slips into a cabinet or hall closet when not in use.

Similar to a wet vacuum, this handy machine has a 48-ounce tank to hold cleaning solutions and a dirty water receptacle; the machine sucks up the liquid as you clean. The handle has a trigger-activated spray nozzle that releases the cleaning solution and a soft brush tool that rubs away tough stains. Much like an upholstery brush, the soft bristles are gentle on fabrics.

Bissells Little Green Machine has a 15-foot power cord and a 4-foot hose that accommodates a variety of detachable cleaning tools. Youll also get a 32-ounce bottle of Bissell Pet & Stain cleaner and an 8-ounce trial bottle of Spot & Stain cleaner with Febreze, so you can use the machine immediately after opening it. Simply add the Bissell formula to the formula fill line, then add water to the water line, and youre set.

How We Tested It

Product Tester Sheri Kaz used the machine to treat virtually every stain in her house for her in-depth Bissell Little Green Machine review. From a coffee stain on her new, cream-color sofa to set-in stains on her carpet, the Little Green Machine faced all of Sheris messes.

The results? Fresh spills and stains were no match for the Little Green Machine; even hot coffee on a cream sofa was quickly lifted. However, long-standing stains were tougher to remove.

After testing the Little Green Machine on five-year-old shag carpet stains, Sheri noticed that the rug was brightened, but the stains were stubborn and did not come out completely. On other light-colored hallway runners, Sheri spot-treated several mystery stains that were six months old or less. With patience, all stains were lifted except for a few tar-like marks.

Our advice? Get close to the stain, and dont overspray. A little goes a long way. Its best to deep clean spills on fibers when theyre fresh.

Where to Buy It

SHERI KAZ/FAMILY HANDYMAN

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$119.99 at Amazon

$123.59 at Wayfair North America

Best Cleaning Product

Bissell Little Green Machine

Shop on Walmart

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$119.99 at Amazon

$123.59 at Wayfair North America

With the Bissell Little Green Machine, you can clean messes before the stains set in. Shop our favorite little cleaning machine atWalmart, Bissell, Wayfairand Amazon. It retails for about $120, but you can often score it on sale.

And for more tested recommendations, don’t miss our release of the best home products of 2024.

The post The Bissell Little Green Machine Is the Best Cleaning Appliance of 2024 appeared first on Family Handyman.

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

What is the Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper?

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

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Avocado Eco Organic Mattress Topper

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

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Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper Features

Eco-Friendly

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

Non-Toxic

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

Removable Cover

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

Flippable

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

How We Tested It

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

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

TheAvocado mattress topper arrived in a single box that Kildare could lift and move on his own. The topper itself was folded and wrapped in plastic. According to Kildare, it took a grand total of three minutes to get this mattress topper out of the box and centered on his bed. He did notice a factory smell, which he said was reminiscent of vanilla cake. He notes that the smell isnt bad, but the topper needs a week or more to completely off-gas.

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

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

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

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

Pros

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

Cons

• Doesnt have corner straps to hold it in place
• Seems to run slightly large for the stated mattress size

Why You Should Trust Us

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

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

FAQ

Which side up should I put my Avocado Mattress topper?

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

How do I clean my Avocado Mattress topper?

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

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

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

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

Avocado Mattress Topper vs. Silk and Snow Organic Mattress Topper

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

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

Final Verdict

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

Where to Buy the Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper

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Avocado Eco Organic Mattress Topper

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

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

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

WENDY ROSE GOULD FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$199 at The Company Store

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are Brunt Work Boots?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Marin Women's (Soft Toe)

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$145.99 at Amazon

Brunt Work Boots Features

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

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

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

How We Tested It

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why You Should Trust Us

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

FAQ

Can you only buy brunt boots online?

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

Who owns BRUNT Workwear?

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

What to look for in a work boot?

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

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

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

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

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

What Others Had to Say

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

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

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

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

Brunt Work Boots vs. Timberland Pro Boots

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

Final Verdict

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

Where to Buy the Brunt Work Boots

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$145.99 at Amazon

I Tried It

The Marin Women's (Soft Toe)

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$145.99 at Amazon

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

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

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

What is the Maytag washer and dryer?

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$878 at Home Depot

$989.99 at Best Buy

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

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$878 at Home Depot

$989.99 at Best Buy

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$748 at Home Depot

$649.99 at Best Buy

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

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$748 at Home Depot

$649.99 at Best Buy

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

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

Maytag Washer and Dryer Features

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

Extra Cleaning Power at the Push of a Button

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

Unique Washer Options

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

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

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

Sturdy and Built to Last

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

A Dozen Cycles

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

Get Extra Power to Dry Faster

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

More Drying Options

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

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

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

Stackable

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

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

How We Tested It

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

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

Cleaning a Comforter

I also wanted to wash a new king-sized comforter before using it because it was smelly. It fits with ease inside both the washing machine and dryer, and it couldnt have been easier. Previously, when I washed comforters or heavy blankets, the washing machine would tilt and stop working — requiring a reset. And with the dryer, multiple cycles were needed to get the comforters or blankets dry. This time, the comforter handled the wash cycle flawlessly. I think the lack of an agitator on the front loading machine allowed a better washing function.

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

Washing Dark Clothing

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

Workout Gear

Next, I wanted to do a load of workout gear that had been sitting in the laundry basket all week. Everything was dirty and smelly when it went in, and it came out clean and fresh. The extra power buttons are fantastic: I honestly wasnt sure if they were necessary, but its a great feature. Be sure to add extra detergent to the extra power compartment.

Front-Loading Washer vs Top-Loading Washer

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

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

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

FAQ

What is the advantage of leaving the door open on the washer when its not in use?

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

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

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

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

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

Is Maytag made in China?

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

Who owns Maytag now?

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

What other reviewers/experts had to say

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

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

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

Final Verdict

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

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

Where to Buy the Maytag Washer and Dryer

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

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

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

What Is the Battery-Powered Toro Leaf Blower?

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

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

TYLER GRAHAM FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$349 at Lowe's

$349 at Acme Tools

I Tried It

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

$349 at Lowe's

$349 at Acme Tools

Toro Leaf Blower Features

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

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

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

How I Tested the Toro Leaf Blower

Assembly

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

Job Site Test (Commercial Landscaping)

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

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

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

Home Test

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

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

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

Blowing Heavy Debris

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

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

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

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

Long-Term Performance

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

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

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

Pros:

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

Cons:

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

Why You Should Trust Us

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

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

FAQ

How long does a Toro leaf blower last?

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

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

The Toro battery leaf blower can be easily controlled using the variable speed trigger, which changes the amount of power coming from the battery. It also has a cruise control function that holds a certain speed in place, allowing your hand to relax and hold the blowerno more cramping.

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

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

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

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

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

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

Final Verdict

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

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

Where to Buy the Toro Battery-Powered Leaf Blower

TYLER GRAHAM FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$349 at Lowe's

$349 at Acme Tools

I Tried It

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

$349 at Lowe's

$349 at Acme Tools

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

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

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

What is the Twinkly Christmas Tree?

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

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

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

Heres a breakdown of the Twinkly Smart Christmas Trees specific product features.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$499.55 at Amazon

We Tried It

Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree

$499.55 at Amazon

Twinkly Christmas Tree Product Features

Size

The 7 -foot Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree is 90 inches tall and 51 inches in diameter. Our product testing team measured the tree at 90 inches and found it to weigh more than 50 pounds despite the product description indicating it weighs just 33 pounds. About 15 inches stand between the floor and the bottom of the first branchplenty of room for presents from Santa.

Setup

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

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

Lights

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

Appearance

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

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

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

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

Smart Control

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

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

With the Twinkly app, you can set timers to turn your smart lights on and off automatically. Schedule your Christmas tree lights to turn on with your house lights at dusk or program them to only light up on certain days. Whatever you decide, you wont have to think or worry about manually turning on your tree lights.

How We Tested It

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

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

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

Why You Should Trust Us

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

FAQ

How does the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree work?

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

How much is the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree?

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

What Other Reviewers Have to Say

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

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

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

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

Final Verdict

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

Where to Buy the Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$499.55 at Amazon

We Tried It

Twinkly Smart Christmas Tree

$499.55 at Amazon

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

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

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

What Are the Corona Pruners?

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

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$29.99 at Ace Hardware

$27.42 at Walmart

$29.99 at Tractor Supply

We Tried It

Corona Classic Cut Pruners

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

$29.99 at Ace Hardware

$27.42 at Walmart

$29.99 at Tractor Supply

Corona Pruners Features

Sharpenable Blade

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

Wire-Cutting Capabilities

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

Lifetime Warranty

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

How We Tested the Corona Pruners

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

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

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

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

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Why You Should Trust Us

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

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

FAQ

How do you sharpen Corona hand pruners?

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

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

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

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

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

Corona Pruners vs. Felco 2 Pruners

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

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

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

Final Verdict

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

Where to Buy the Corona Pruners

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

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$29.99 at Ace Hardware

$27.42 at Walmart

$29.99 at Tractor Supply

We Tried It

Corona Classic Cut Pruners

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

$29.99 at Ace Hardware

$27.42 at Walmart

$29.99 at Tractor Supply

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

What is the Samsung Washer and Dryer?

The Pet Care Solution Washer and Dryer is Samsung’s answer to the issues pet parents have faced for years. It focuses on giving you clean laundry in any circumstance and removing excess hair and odors that tend to come with owning a pet. It’s a beautiful and sleek machine that looks nice in a laundry room but packs a punch by including integrated SmartThings technology for remote access, specialized wash and dry settings, the ability to steam clothing and more.

MORGAN CHANEY FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$1698 at Samsung

$848 at Home Depot

$848 at Lowe's

We Tried It

Samsung Smart Washer and Dryer with Pet Care

$1698 at Samsung

$848 at Home Depot

$848 at Lowe's

Samsung Washer and Dryer Features

Washer Features

The Samsung Pet Care Solution Washer and Dryer is extremely high-tech and has a long list of features for both the washer and the dryer. This washer is geared to remove pet hair and make your laundry experience faster and easier. It has an extra large 5.4-cubic-foot capacity with upgraded filters and water jets to ensure your clothes are extra clean.

The washer comes with the normal pre-programmed washing cycles but also has the ability for a Pet Care Wash Cycle to remove six times the amount of hair of a normal wash. Then there’s the Super Speed Wash Cycle, which can clean an eight-pound load in a lightning-fast 28-minute cycle.

You can connect the washer to the Samsung SmartThings app via WiFi to create your own laundry settings. This also allows you to stop or delay your laundry from the app. The app informs you of your energy usage and any issues your washer may be experiencing. It’s quiet and efficient thanks to the Vibration Reduction Technology+ and Swirl+ Tub Interior, which keeps noise and vibration low while washing. It still draws out water from your clothes despite its gentleness. To help with maintenance, this washer also has a self-clean feature to keep things sparkly, clean and fresh.

Dryer Features

The dryer is equally impressive as the washer and has features that give you fluffy and wrinkle-free clothes with less pet hair. Its large 7.4-cubic-foot capacity can hold large loads and easily fits bulk items like blankets and bedding. It has a reversible door to fit any space, plus an internal drum light so you can better see your clothes. It also has accessibility features like braille and audio assistance.

Like the washer, the Pet Care dryer can also be connected via Wi-Fi to the Samsung SmartThings App to remotely start, stop, delay and troubleshoot issues you may encounter during the drying cycle. Additionally, this dryer has Samsung’s Steam Sanitize+ technology, which was tested* and found to remove 95% of pollen from fabric while relaxing wrinkles and refreshing clothes quickly and without the need for a full wash and dry.

*(Testing based on Samsung internal protocols, results provided to and interpreted by Intertek, individual results may vary)

How We Tested It

Over the course of two months, I tested this washer-dryer combo against pet hair, odor and stains, as well as food stains, gym clothes and other typical laundry messes. I also reviewed the app’s functionality and tested its different settings.

Testing the Washer

When testing a washer, the most important things are how well it washes and whether the extra features are worth the extra money. We did the unthinkable to test its branded pet care specificity and washing ability and washed the dog’s bed blanket. This blanket is COVERED in hair and lives in our dog’s “apartment,” or the space he likes to sleep in under the bed.

With previous washers, I would always take the blanket outside and try to shake off as much hair as possible, but I threw it straight in the washer this time and prayed to whatever higher power that the drain wouldn’t clog. To my surprise, it didn’t clog, and the blanket came out fresh. While there was still a little hair, it was much less than I had anticipated. When I opened the additional hair catchers inside the washer, I found lumps of dog hair and was both grossed out and impressed at how much it collected.

My favorite feature of this washing machine, apart from its ability to catch hair, is its quick washability. This wash cycle cuts a 56-minute wash down to 28 minutes and doesn’t sacrifice its cleaning power and ability. Its use of the spray jets and other technology saved me in a pinch when I got makeup on my shirt and had limited time to wash and dry it before I left.

Testing the Dryer

While the dryer’s features are a little less “fun” to test than the washer, they’re equally, if not more, important. This dryer dries fast and dries well. My partner and I frequently hang dry most of our clothes due to shrinking or damage from dryer heat, but I feel much more comfortable with the addition of the cooler dry cycles and the ability to choose a dampness setting over a time setting for your dry.

The steam cycle is great for items that are mostly clean but need to be freshened up. During our testing, my partner and I went on multiple trips, and instead of dumping my whole bag in the wash as I normally do, I put any clothes I didn’t wear through a steam cycle instead of a wash, and they came out smelling as clean as the ones put through the wash.

Additional Features

The app for this washer-dryer combo was truly what sold this pair for me. The SmartThings app can start, stop, and delay your laundry cycles, as well as send reminders about when your laundry is finished and if there are any issues with your wash.

As someone juggling too many things, throwing clothes in the washer and setting them to finish washing right before I get home or overnight while I’m sleeping is a game changer. The reminders to switch clothes have saved me time and multiple re-washes of clothes that were forgotten wet in the wash.

While I didn’t think I would have any issues while doing my laundry, the washer stopped the wash on my first use of the delicate cycle. It alerted me that the water was hot and may potentially damage the delicate handmade baby blanket I had just finished for a friend. It turns out the hot and cold water lines had been switched during installation, but thankfully, this washer was smarter than the person who installed it.

Pros

• Long lasting
• Efficient and eco friendly
• Impressive smart features and innovative technology
• Large-capacity loads
• SmartThings App sends alerts and reminders
• Removes dog hair and odor 6x better than most laundry units
• Quick wash and steam clean settings

Cons

• Clogged drain hose is common cause of drainage problems in top-loading washers
• Problems may arise with ordering and delivery

FAQ

What is the life expectancy of a Samsung washer and dryer?

A Samsung washer and dryer has a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years when well-maintained.

How can I use the Samsung SmartThings App to control a Samsung washer and dryer?

The Samsung SmartThings App can be used to control different functions of the Samsung Washer and Dryer. For both machines, you can pre-set custom wash and dry settings and start, stop or delay the start of a load. In addition, you can have the app send you notifications when your wash or dry has finished or if there are any issues with the cycle.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

Overall, reviewers love this washer-dryer combo. Most point out their love of the extensive list of features ranging from smart connectivity to washing ability. Phillips, a customer of Lowes, commented, “If I had known that much pet hair was getting through both the washer and dryer, I would have purchased this a long time ago!”. Experts in the laundry field agree.

Salvador Villarreal, owner of VIP Cleaners and Laundry, highlighted that “the high-heat cycles, odor control features and pet hair filters of the Samsung Pet Care Solution set seem ideal for breaking down pet messes.” He also brought up that “Frequent cleaning of filters will likely be needed, but for specialized performance, the investment may be worth it.”

Samsung vs. LG

We consulted multiple experts on the most reliable washer-dryer brand, and LG came out on top by a mile. But does that mean it’s a better pick over Samsung washers/dryers? It depends.

Both brands offer innovative technology. Samsung’s SmartThings and LG’s ThinQ allow you to control your laundry remotely, monitor your energy usage, and customize your settings. Both also have multiple Energy Star-certified models, though LG seems to have more than Samsung.

Samsung appears to be the budget winner, as their washer/dryers are, on average, less expensive than LG’s. That said, apartment dwellers or those in compact spaces might want to opt for the LG WashTower or one of the company’s other space-saving options. On the other hand, Samsung appliances have deeper loading capacities, which makes them a better option for large families.

The two brands are comparable in terms of washing and drying settings. You will ultimately decide which Samsung or LG washer/dryer works best for you.

Final Verdict

Before giving my final verdict, I’d like to present you with a photo.

While you can’t smell how fresh these pants smelled after a steam cycle this morning, you also can’t see a ton of pet hair. This washer and dryer are beasts at hair removal, and they have been a lifesaver for a house with multiple pets that love to shed.

These smart laundry units have many features that provide a great wash and dry for any type of laundry, keep your clothes safe and make doing laundry easier. While the units are pricier than some standard units, the features are well worth the price.

Using this washer-dryer combo’s smart app integration has helped me lessen the number of loads I’ve left in the dryer, the quick load feature has saved an outfit or two due to a makeup mishap, and the steam sanitize feature has been wonderful to use during the switching of the seasons to freshen up the clothes in the back of my closet instead of washing them as I have in the past. Overall, I’m a huge fan of this set, and I look forward to many more loads of laundry and purchasing a lot fewer lint rollers.

Where to Buy the Samsung Washer and Dryer

MORGAN CHANEY FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$1698 at Samsung

$848 at Home Depot

$848 at Lowe's

We Tried It

Samsung Smart Washer and Dryer with Pet Care

$1698 at Samsung

$848 at Home Depot

$848 at Lowe's

You can buy the Samsung Pet Care Solution Smart Top Load Washer directly through Samsung or at home improvement realtors like Lowe’s and The Home Depot. This washer-dryer duo can be bought as a set from Samsung for $1,500 to $2,500 (depending on promotions), which includes shipping, delivery, installation and haul-away services if needed. At Lowe’s and The Home Depot, you can purchase the washer and dryer individually for about $750 apiece.

The post Sifting Through Samsung Washer and Dryer Reviews? Here’s a Homeowner’s Honest Take appeared first on Family Handyman.

FAMILY HANDYMAN

Shop at Nest Bedding

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is the Minelab Equinox 900?

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

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

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

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$1149 at Amazon

Shop on Scheels

$1149 at Bass Pro Shops

$1149 at Cabela's

We Tried It

Minelab Equinox 900

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

$1149 at Amazon

Shop on Scheels

$1149 at Bass Pro Shops

$1149 at Cabela's

Minelab Equinox 900 Features

Waterproof

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

Terrain-Based Presets

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

Gold Preset

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

Vibration

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

Custom User Profiles

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

Backlit LCD & Built-in LED Flashlight

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

How We Tested It

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pros

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

Cons

• Expensive
• Not the most intuitive to read

Why You Should Trust Us

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

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

FAQ

How deep can the Minelab Equinox 900 detect?

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

Is the EQUINOX 900 good for beginners?

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

Can the EQUINOX 900 find gold?

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

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

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

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

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

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

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

The Minelab Equinox 900 vs. Minelab Equinox 800

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

Final Verdict

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

Where to Buy the Minelab Equinox 900

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

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$1149 at Amazon

Shop on Scheels

$1149 at Bass Pro Shops

$1149 at Cabela's

We Tried It

Minelab Equinox 900

The Minelab Equinox 900 is superior at detecting gold and deep items.

$1149 at Amazon

Shop on Scheels

$1149 at Bass Pro Shops

$1149 at Cabela's

The post Want to Strike Gold? Here’s Why You Need the Minelab Equinox 900 Metal Detector appeared first on Family Handyman.

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

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

What is the Bounty Hunter Metal Detector?

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

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

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

VIA MERCHANT

$63.99 at Amazon

$119 at Home Depot

$89.99 at DICK'S Sporting Goods

We Tried It

Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

The Bounty Hunter Metal Detector is recommended by our testers as well as expert metal detectorists.

$63.99 at Amazon

$119 at Home Depot

$89.99 at DICK'S Sporting Goods

Bounty Hunter Metal Detector Features

Waterproof Searchcoil

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

Three Discrimination Settings

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

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

Automatic Ground Balance

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

How We Tested It

Assembly

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

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

Air Test

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

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

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

Discrimination Testing

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

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

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

Pros

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

Cons

• No arm strap
• Screen was very hard to read

Why You Should Trust Us

AtFamily Handyman, we love helping our readers get the most out of their hobbies. Finding quality products that make your life easier and wont leave you with a bad case of buyers remorse is a big part of that. From metalworking to woodworking to treasure hunting, were here to help. Our editors and testers have years of experience testing products and we prioritize publishing honest product reviews to help our readers make informed buying choices.

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

FAQ

Will a bounty hunter metal detector find gold?

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

Can you use the bounty hunter metal detector in water?

The searchcoil is submersible and can be used in water.

How do I use the bounty hunter metal detector?

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

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

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

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

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

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

Bounty Hunter vs. Sunpow Metal Detector

Our experts on the product testing team tested 11 metal detectors. TheBounty Hunterand theSunpow metal detectors have comparable features and are similarly priced at about $149 and $142, respectively.

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

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

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

Final Verdict

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

Where to Buy the Bounty Hunter Metal Detector

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

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$63.99 at Amazon

$119 at Home Depot

$89.99 at DICK'S Sporting Goods

We Tried It

Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

The Bounty Hunter metal detector is an affordable, beginner-friendly unit.

$63.99 at Amazon

$119 at Home Depot

$89.99 at DICK'S Sporting Goods

The post The Bounty Hunter Metal Detector is the Best Starter Unit, According to Experts appeared first on Family Handyman.

With so many mattress and mattress topper options on the market, I first needed to narrow the possibilities by listing my priorities. Because I’m concerned about chemicals and sensitive to odors, I focused on organic mattresses. Within the nontoxic mattress lineup, I wanted a Goldilocks optionnot too springy and soft, but with firm support, the right amount of pressure relief and a lush top. Simply put, I wanted a mattress that slept like a dream and that I could happily sleep on for many years. The Happsy Organic Latex Hybrid Mattresschecked all those boxes, so I tested it.

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

What is the Happsy mattress?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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$899 at Amazon

We Tried It

Happsy Organic Hybrid Mattress

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$899 at Amazon

Product Features: Why Choose an Organic Mattress?

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

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

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

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

How I Tested the Happsy Mattress

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why You Should Trust Us

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

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

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

FAQ

Is Happsy good for side sleepers?

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

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

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

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

Where is the Happsy mattress manufactured?

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

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Across the different sites where this hybrid organic mattress is available, most customers have come to the same conclusion: They are happy with their Happsy! The mattress has nearly 2,185 customer reviews and a 4.5-star rating on the manufacturer’s website.

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

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

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

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

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

Happsy Organic Mattress vs. Silk & Snow Organic Mattress

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

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

Final Verdict

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

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

Where to Buy the Happsy Mattress

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Shop at Happsy

$899 at Amazon

We Tried It

Happsy Organic Hybrid Mattress

Shop at Happsy

$899 at Amazon

You can purchase a Happsy Organic Hybrid Mattress directly from the company’s website, where they offer free shipping and returns, along with a 120-night risk-free trial. The Happsy mattress starts at $900 and is also available on Amazon. Happsy offers discounts occasionally, so be sure to check for promotions like the current 20% off using the code “FALL20” when buying from the Happsy website.

The post Happsy Mattress Review: This Organic Mattress Changed the Way I Sleep appeared first on Family Handyman.

You dont need to install another plumbing appliance in your bathroom to reap the benefits of a Tushy bidet. Tushy bidet attachments like the Oasis and Wave are simple DIY projects accomplished in under an hour. Here are all the deets about the latest Tushy bidet.

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Product Launch

Tushy Wave Non-Electric Bidet

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What is the Tushy Wave?

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

The all-new Tushy Wave, like the Oasis, is an easy-clean bidet toilet seat. Unlike the prior classic modelwhich is an attachment that fits under your existing toilet seatthe new models replace your toilet seat altogether. The Wave doesnt have an extended console like previous Tushy bidet models, so it can fit in even the tiniest of apartment bathrooms. No more sacrificing spa-like luxuries for apartment living.

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

Our Favorite Tushy Bidets

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Product Launch

Tushy Wave Non-Electric Bidet

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

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Product Launch

Tushy Oasis Warm Water Non-Electric Bidet

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

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Tushy Classic 3.0 Bidet Attachment

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

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Where to Buy the Tushy Wave

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

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

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

Heres what you need to know about Chasing Papers wallpaper.

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Chasing Paper Cottage Edit Wallpaper

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

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What is Chasing Paper wallpaper?

Chasing Paper was started in 2012 by third-generation printers who sought to create high-quality wall coverings. Whether designing your forever home or sprucing up an apartment, Chasing Paper has peel-and-stick (removable) and traditional wallpaper options. Every order is printed to order, and the brand works with artists to create unique patterns you cant find anywhere else. Plus, all of the wallpaper is made using non-toxic, water-based ink. The brands printed-to-order model allows them to be more flexible and sustainable.

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

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

Where to Buy the Cottagecore Wallpaper

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Product Launch

Chasing Paper Cottage Edit Wallpaper

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

Shop at Chasing Paper

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

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

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

The Northern Altitude Collection

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

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

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

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

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

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

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L.L.Bean & Noah Kahan Hoodie Sweatshirt

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

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Bean Boots

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

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

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

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L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Mountain Classic Anorak

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

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

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

What is the Ninesky Dehumidifier?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ninesky Dehumidifier Features

85-ounce water tank

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quiet Operation

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

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

Auto Shut-off

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

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

LED Mood Lighting

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

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

How We Tested It

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

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

Pros

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

Cons

• Not as quiet as advertised
• Tank capacity is unclear

FAQ

Why is the power light blinking on my Ninesky dehumidifier?

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

Should I keep my Ninesky dehumidifier on all night?

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

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

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

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

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

Ninesky Dehumidifier vs GE Dehumidifier

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

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

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

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

Final Verdict

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

Where to Buy the Ninesky Dehumidifier

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

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

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

What is the Birch Natural Mattress?

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

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

FAMILY HANDYMAN

Shop at Helix Sleep

Shop at Birch by Helix

We Tried It

Birch Natural Mattress

Shop at Helix Sleep

Shop at Birch by Helix

Birch Natural Mattress Product Features

Cooling Layers

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

Pressure Relief

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

Supportive Feel

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

Hassle-Free Setup

When you order a Birch mattress, the delivery team will unpack your new bed and set it up in your desired location. Theyll also remove your old mattress and dispose of the packaging. This way, you dont have to worry about hauling in a heavy mattress on your own or getting rid of your old one ahead of delivery.

How We Tested It

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

Delivery and Setup

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

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

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

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

Sleep Experience

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

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

The medium firmness is a great balance between support and comfort, Richard says. Interestingly, the mattress feels much softer when sitting upright, but laying down with your body weight distributed, it feels much firmer.

Id recommend the Birch Natural Mattress to anyone with joint pain. It has the support of a spring bed without sacrificing comfort, Richard says. If youve been sleeping on memory foam and wake up sweaty, this mattress (made without memory foam) is worth trying.

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

Why You Should Trust Us

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

FAQ

Does a birch mattress have fiberglass?

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

Who is the parent company of Birch mattress?

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

Do Birch mattresses have springs?

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

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

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

Comparison of Birch Natural Mattresses

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

Final Verdict

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

Where to Buy the Birch Natural Mattress

FAMILY HANDYMAN

Shop at Helix Sleep

Shop at Birch by Helix

We Tried It

Birch Natural Mattress

Shop at Helix Sleep

Shop at Birch by Helix

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

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

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

What is the Garrett Metal Detector?

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

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

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

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

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$269.95 at Amazon

$269.99 at Cabela's

$269.99 at Bass Pro Shops

Shop on Scheel's

We Tried It

Garrett Ace 300 Metal Detector

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

$269.95 at Amazon

$269.99 at Cabela's

$269.99 at Bass Pro Shops

Shop on Scheel's

Garrett Metal Detector Features

Waterproof

The Garrett metal detector is designed to detect objects underwater.

Customizable Discrimination Settings

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

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

Electronic Pinpointing

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

Three Volume Settings

This Garrett metal detector produces three distinct tones based on a targets metal type and conductivity.
High-conductivity targets (Digital ID > 75) produce a unique bell tone signal.
Medium to low conductivity targets (Digital ID of 3375) produce a medium-pitched signal.
Ferrous targets, which are metals that contain iron as their main component, (Digital ID < 33) produce a low-pitch
signal.

How We Tested It

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Why You Should Trust Us

AtFamily Handyman, we know how important it is to find quality products that make your life easier and wont leave you with a bad case of buyers remorse. Of course our goal is to help you with everything you should know about your home, but we enjoy helping you enjoy your hobbies, too. Whether you’re into metalworking, woodworking or treasure hunting, we’re here to help. Our editors and testers have years of experience testing products and we will only recommend a product if we believe it will enhance your own experience as it did ours.

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

FAQ

What is the best Garrett metal detector for beginners?

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

How deep can a Garrett metal detector go?

Typically, metal detectors are capable of uncovering objects buried between 10 to 16 inches deep, according to the brand’s website.

Will a Garrett metal detector find gold?

Yes, the Garrett metal detector will find gold. That said, our testers found that it was only able to detect gold within a few inches of the coils.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Over 2,400 Amazon users gave the Garrett metal detector a five-star rating for its ease-of-use, light weight and value.

Five-star reviewer Mike in VB calls this a good sporting use metal detector. “For the money, this is good intermediate sporting use metal detector. It works fine detecting iron and aluminum,” he writes. He ends his review by offering a pro tip for prospective buyers: “Definitely download and read the complete manual to properly setup the unit for detecting the types of things you are interested in.”

Nicholas Beekman, another satisfied Amazon user, was thrilled by how well the Garrett metal detector works. “My wifes wedding ring was lost in the garden for three months. After using two cheaper metal detectors with no luck, I purchased this model and found the ring in less than 5 minutes,” he raves.

Experienced treasure hunter Just Jeff upgraded to the Garrett metal detector and he’s happy he did. “I upgraded to the Garret 300 and found the transition to be smooth. It pulls a little downward on the wrist but other than that, its balanced and lightweight with a nice LED display with numerical reference for the target,” he writes. Jeff goes on to add that while there is a learning curve, the Garrett metal detector is a great choice for all skill levels.

“The volume is loud and is not able to be adjusted. Th only way to adjust volume is when using the wired headphones that came with the detector. Until you ‘learn’ the tones and numbers being displayed, dig everything. Youll find more trash than treasure but thats not the detectors fault,” he explains.

“There are several modes for distinguishing types of targets youre looking for,” his review continues. “The unit is easy to operate; turn it on and go! It’s great for beginners and experienced users without investing large amounts of money. Batteries come with it and after 18 to 20 hours, the indicator is still reading ‘full.’ You wont be disappointed in this detector. Its easy to assemble and with moderate practice youll be retrieving treasure in no time.”

Garrett Metal Detector vs. Nokta Metal Detector

Our experts on the product testing team tested 11 metal detectors. They recommend both the Garrett Ace 300 and the Nokta Legend. Though they’re both adept at finding targets, the Nokta metal detector costs about $300 more than the Garrett metal detector. Before you decide which model to invest in, here’s how they differ.

Both metal detectors are lightweight and fairly easy to use. They both have customizable discrimination settings and multiple frequencies. That said, the Nokta metal detector has more bells and whistles than the Garrett metal detector. For starters, the Nokta has four customizable discrimination settings in addition to four terrain settings. It’s also rechargeable, fully submersible and equipped with extras like Bluetooth capabilities, vibration alerts and multiple user profiles.

When it comes to performance, both metal detectors are suitable for all skill levels and were able to detect gold. The Nokta was able to detect gold from about eight inches away while the Garrett was able to detect it from three inches away.

During testing, our team found that the Nokta’s screen was hard to read in the sunlight thanks to its all-black buttons. They also found it to be much quieter than other models. The Garrett metal detector, on the other hand, was easy to read and our testers liked the different tones. Moreover, the Garrett metal detector includes headphones, an environmental cover and a search coil cover. The Nokta does not include any accessories.

Overall, the Garrett metal detector is the better value, especially for beginners.

Final Verdict

If youre in the market for a metal detector, then this Garrett metal detector is an excellent choice. This lightweight model is comfortable to hold and easy to use, making it idea for beginners and seasoned treasure hunters alike. It also includes handy accessories like headphones, an environmental cover and coil cover which makes it an excellent value.

Where to Buy the Garrett Metal Detector

The Garrett metal detector costs $269.99 and is available at a variety of retailers. Purchase yours on Amazon, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, and Scheel’s.

VIA MERCHANT

$269.95 at Amazon

$269.99 at Cabela's

$269.99 at Bass Pro Shops

Shop on Scheel's

We Tried It

Garrett Ace 300 Metal Detector

The Garrett metal detector is a mid-priced, beginner-friendly unit. Five search modes make it easy to separate trash from treasure.

$269.95 at Amazon

$269.99 at Cabela's

$269.99 at Bass Pro Shops

Shop on Scheel's

The post The Garrett Metal Detector is the Perfect Entry-Level Model, According to Our Product Testers appeared first on Family Handyman.

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

What is the Nokta Metal Detector?

The Nokta metal detector is a multi-purpose metal detector. It features a 12-inch waterproof coil, digital display and rechargeable battery. It weighs just 3.05 pounds, making it extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.

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

Priced at $595, the Nokta metal detector is on the higher end. But given its features and overall ease of use, our product testers agree that it’s worth the splurge.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$595 at Amazon

Shop on Kellyco Metal Detectors

we tried it

Nokta Legend Metal Detector

A waterproof coil, digital display and abundance of features make this metal detector one of our top picks.

$595 at Amazon

Shop on Kellyco Metal Detectors

Nokta Metal Detector Features

Waterproof

The Nokta metal detector is fully submersible up to five meters (16.4 feet). It vibrates when it detects something underwater.

Customizable Discrimination Settings

Choose from All Metal, Ferrous Off, Ground Effect Off and Custom (Notch Discrimination) settings. There are also four terrain-based presets including park, beach, field and gold field.

Vibration

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

Custom User Profiles

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

Backlit LCD & Built-in LED Flashlight

The backlit digital display and built-in flashlight allow you to use the Nokta metal detector day or night.

How We Tested It

Product testers Annamarie Higley and Sydney Manning led the charge and set out to see what the Nokta metal detector was really capable of. They began by assembling the unit, a process they described as easy and simple since there were only a couple parts to put together. Manning only had to reference the manual once or twice.

After it was fully assembled, our testers were impressed by the overall quality of the Nokta metal detector. They also appreciated how easy it was to carry.

“The shape of the handle is ergonomic, plus it has a rubber grip that wraps all the way around the handle,” explains Manning. “The tough carbon fiber telescoping shaft is lightweight and it doesn’t feel heavy in use.” They did point out, however, that while the cuff fit snugly on Annamarie’s arm, the Velcro itself is quite thin. Additionally, our testers felt that the coil head was floppier than others they tested. Fortunately, neither of these things seemed to affect the Nokta’s performance.

Once the Nokta metal detector was securely on Annamarie’s arm, it was time to see what it could do. Our testers began by performing an air test. This is a standard basic functionality test that many companies recommend prior to first use. To perform this test, our team placed the Nokta metal detector on non-metal surface outside and proceeded to wave a selection of metal items in front of the coils. These items included a pair of 10k gold earrings, a copper pipe, aluminum foil, pull tabs, bottle caps, a screw and a nail. It was able to detect all of our items from a foot away or less. It detected gold from about 8 inches away.

Our testers pointed out that the machine’s noises change and increase in volume as the target nears. However, they found the machine to be very quiet overall and adjusted the volume accordingly. “Annamarie turned up the volume to max, which helped,” explains Manning. “But because the volume of the ping depends on the depth of the item, some pings were a little quiet for our liking.” Additionally, they heard a constant humming or chatting noise in the gold mode, even as they adjusted the frequency.

During testing, Higley’s only complaint was that the buttons, which are are simply raised and all black, were hard to see.“Although the black buttons are a little hard to see with sunglasses on or in the shade, the screenwith all its super-helpful informationfortunately, has high visibility,” she says.

Overall, our testers agree that the Nokta metal detector is a worthy splurge. “The user-friendly FerroCheck bar, which identifies whether a target is ferrous, never once failed us,” raves Higley.

Pros

• Good at detecting gold
• User-friendly
• Ergonomic handle
• Vibration mode
• Bluetooth capabilities
• Multiple terrain-based presets
• Rechargeable
• Auto-adjusts frequencies

Cons

• Does not include any accessories
• Quieter than other models
• All-black buttons can be hard to see

Why You Should Trust Us

AtFamily Handyman, we know how important it is to find quality products that make your life easier and wont leave you with a bad case of buyers remorse. Of course our goal is to help you with everything you should know about your home, but we enjoy helping you enjoy your hobbies, too. Whether you’re into metalworking, woodworking or treasure hunting, we’re here to help. Our editors and testers have years of experience testing products and we will only recommend a product if we believe itll enhance your own experience as it did ours.

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

FAQ

Is Nokta Legend a good metal detector?

Yes! In fact, the makers are so confident in their products that they offer a three-year warranty. Moreover, every part of the Nokta metal detector can be repaired. If something breaks, you won’t have to replace the whole thing.

What is the maximum depth of the Nokta legend?

The Nokta Legend is fully submersible up to five meters, or 16.4 feet.

Where is the Nokta legend made?

Nokta Detectors is headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Though this Nokta metal detector doesn’t have a ton of reviews, the ones that are there are overwhelmingly positive.

Verified Amazon user P-Town insists that the Nokta metal detector is great for beginners. They write, “If youre just starting out, you are starting off with a very good detector. This is perfect for your entire family to use because its so easy to set and go. Found a few items at my local park and even in my yard. I cannot wait to go to beach and use it. Instead of trying to buy a very expensive one like I did, just buy something like this one and see if you even have the patience for metal detecting. Its a nice hobby once you put the time and effort into it.”

Angel, another five-star reviewer, had great luck on their first try. “First day and I got lots of coins and a ring at beach,” they rave. “Ferrous cancel is awesome!”

And Amazon user Billy Bob couldn’t be happier with his upgraded metal detector. “It’s way better than my Garrett AT Gold. It has tons of bells and whistles that I’ve yet to play with,” he writes. “Anything you would want to customize, you can. The basics are pretty easy to get down.”

The Nokta Legend vs. Minelab X-Terra Elite

Our experts on the product testing team tested 11 metal detectors. The Nokta Legend and the Minelab X-Terra Elitehave comparable features and are similarly priced at $595 and $479, respectively.

Both metal detectors are lightweight and waterproof. They both have vibration alert, customizable discrimination settings and terrain-based presets. That said, the Nokta metal detector has more settings and customization options than the Minelab metal detector. The Nokta metal detector also allows you to create up to four user profiles.

When it comes to performance, both metal detectors are suitable for beginners and were able to detect gold from about eight inches away. As mentioned above, our testers found the Nokta metal detector to be quieter than they would have liked and had trouble seeing the all-black buttons. Overall, they preferred the Minelabmetal detector’s screen and sounds.

Final Verdict

If youre in the market for a metal detector, then this Nokta metal detector is a no brainer. And if youre not in the market for a metal detector, go ahead and add this one to your cart anyway. You may discover a new hobby or finally find that piece of jewelry you lost all those years ago. And who knows? Since it detects objects 12-inches away or less, maybe you’ll even come across some real buried treasure. One thing is for sure: you’ll have fun getting out there and seeing what you can find. Happy hunting!

Where to Buy the Nokta Metal Detector

The Nokta metal detector is available for $595 on Amazon. You can even bundle it with a pair of wireless headphones for $679. The bundle is also available on Kellyco Metal Detectors.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$595 at Amazon

Shop on Kellyco Metal Detectors

we tried it

Nokta Legend Metal Detector

The Nokta metal detector can detect objects from 12 inches away or less.

$595 at Amazon

Shop on Kellyco Metal Detectors

The post Strike Gold With the Nokta Metal Detector: Tested By Shopping Editors appeared first on Family Handyman.

With that in mind, it should be no shock that I’m all aboard the trend of decorating for Christmas with woodland animals. And I’m certainly not the only one. Popular brands like West Elm, Pottery Barn, Arhaus and Target are all getting in on the fun. Here’s some of my favorite woodland creature Christmas decor to spark joy this holiday season. Happy shopping!

The Best Woodland Animal Christmas Decorations

VIA MERCHANT

$78 at Wayfair North America

Christmas Moose Family Lighted Display Set

Available in white, gold or brown, this moose duo is sure to spice up your outdoor Christmas decor.

$78 at Wayfair North America

VIA MERCHANT

$79 at Garnet Hill

Woodland Bunny Stocking

These cotton and velvet stockings are handmade, and feature greenery with red berries and your choice of an embroidered owl, cardinal, deer or rabbit.

$79 at Garnet Hill

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$199.95 at Hammacher Schlemmer

Illuminated Three Christmas Mice

This whimsical display features three mice toting presents across the lawn. Each mouse is a standalone piece, so you can create whatever formation you'd like.

$199.95 at Hammacher Schlemmer

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$14.94 at Amazon

Small Pinecone Back Hedgehogs with Santa Hats

Affordable and adorable? Yes, please! This set of four hedgehogs add a little holiday cheer on a mantel, coffee table or the center of your dining table.

$14.94 at Amazon

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$40 at Target SYL

Tinsel Fox with Christmas Tree

Standing around 2.5 feet tall, this incandescent fox can be placed both indoors and out without issue (how cute are his little red boots and mini Christmas tree?).

$40 at Target SYL

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Owl Glass Ball Ornament

This is not your traditional tree bauble. Available in a small or large size, this owl ornament features a bejeweled outside, dotted feathers and large, peering eyes.

Shop on West Elm

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$199.50 at Arhaus

Tassel Deer

Hand-spun jute and cotton adorn this deer, which is handmade in India. Talk about a decoration you'll have for years to come!

$199.50 at Arhaus

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Christmas Inflatable Santa's Sleigh with Raccoons

Forget boring yard inflatables. This sleigh is pulled by a trio of raccoons (wearing festive antlers, I may add) and inflates within a minute of set up.

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$549 at Neiman Marcus

Realms of Glory Standing Cinnamon Bear

If money is no object, why not get this Christmas bear (who is effectively the height of an elementary school child)? He's handmade in the USA, and is outfitted in a bowtie and leopard print Santa hat.

$549 at Neiman Marcus

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$12.50 at Lowe's

Lighted Rattan Hedgehog Decoration

Have a holly, jolly hedgehog Christmas with this rattan woodland creature from Lowe's. He's wearing a Santa hat and has a wreath of pinecones, sprigs and berries.

$12.50 at Lowe's

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$35.27 at Amazon

Sisal Christmas Squirrel Set

If you prefer a winter wonderland theme (but still want to incorporate woodland creatures into the mix), this white squirrel duo is the ticket. Hide them amongst the branches of your Christmas tree for an unexpected surprise.

$35.27 at Amazon

The post Decorating with Woodland Animals for Christmas? You Need These Cuties ASAP appeared first on Family Handyman.

NANCY SNYDER FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

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Of the 16 shirts senior shopping editor Nancy Snyder tested, the Hoka Mobai LS Sun Top was her top pick. According to Snyder, it feels durable and more high-end than others she tested.

This shirt is designed for everyday activities including walking and hiking. Snyder wore it on an incredibly warm, late morning walk with her dog and found the shirt to be comfortable and breathable. Better yet, it feels cool to the touch, which is a huge plus in the hot Arizona sun. Snyder also liked the shirt’s additional features which provide an extra layer of sun protection as well as convenience.

“This sun shirt has everything you’d need,” says Snyder. “It features a scuba hood, kangaroo pockets, an internal side pocket with zipper for your keys and ID and thumb holes.” She adds that the lightweight, mesh fabric feels like it would repel water rather than absorb it.

The only thing Snyder didn’t love about this shirt was its lower UPF rating. It has a UPF rating of 40 while all of the other sun protection shirts we tested had a UPF rating of 50. That said, Snyder did not burn after an hour and a half in the hot Arizona sun while wearing this shirt. Pair it with these top-rated hiking boots for your next excursion.

The post 8 Best Sun Protection Shirts for Women for Yard Work and More, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Family Handyman.

If you’re like me and have a golf fanatic in your life, purchasing a golf simulator for Christmas makes a lot of sense, especially if you’ve already bought them every other golf-related gift out there. Sure, most golf simulators are really expensive. But you don’t have to go the Trackman route and pay $20,000+ to get a setup that’ll actually help your loved one’s game.

A huge chunk of the golf population is particularly fond of Skytrak simulators because they offer a good blend of functionality and value. Here are the best Skytrak options to gift (or treat yourself).

The Best Skytrak Golf Simulators

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SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor

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Perfecting your golf skill is in the minutia, so fixing small mistakes in your swing can have a hugely positive impact on your game. That’s where the SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor comes in. For the golf lover who’s more concerned with the data side of things, this option from Skytrak monitors:

• Carry distance
• Total distance
• Face-to-path
• Face angle
• Smash factor
• Club head speed
• Club path
• Shot shape
• Launch angle
• Side angle
• Descent angle
• Side spin
• Backspin
• Ball speed

When you consider the price of an entire golf simulator package and the sheer amount of insights the Skytrak+ Launch Monitor provides, the $2,500 price tag is quite a good deal.

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Golf Simulator Studio Pro

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Here’s the thing about golf simulators. You can purchase everything separately or get a package (like the one above) that includes everything you need to get going in around an hour. This studio pro package comes in three sizes and offers the whole gamut of golf simulator tools, including a:

• Skytrak launch monitor
• Mounted projector
• Ball wing molded ball tray
• High-impact hitting mat
• Steel-framed enclosure
• Custom-sized putting turf
• Screen
• Side nets

Disclaimer: To enjoy a golf simulator properly, your giftee should have a garage, spare room or basement they’re looking to fill, as a simulator (and any extras like turf mats and clubs) will take up a decent chunk of space. You’ll also want to make sure their ceiling can accommodate a full swing from the clubs they intend to use with the simulator (not everyone wants to hit their driver on a simulator, so at least make sure the wedges they use work).

Where to Purchase a Skytrak Simulator or Launch Monitor

Ready to make your golfer’s dream come true? Purchase a Skytrak simulator or launch monitor straight from the Skytrak site. If you need a little help choosing a setup that will work with your room’s configurations, book a consultation with a sim pro here.

The post A Skytrak Golf Simulator Is the Only Christmas Gift the Golfer in Your Life Needs appeared first on Family Handyman.

Hungry for more? Check out this newest fall staple.

What is the Solo Stove Cookout Kit?

If you’ve ever debated whether you should bring your fire pit or grill to the parking lot tailgate, the Solo Stove Cookout Kit is for you. This kit comfortably elevates your Bonfire 2.0 off the ground and turns it into a grill for cooking, effectively giving you the best of both worlds. It is worth noting that this kit is only compatible (as of now) with the Bonfire 2.0, so don’t try to stick your Yukon in the slot; you’ll be disappointed when it topples over. Perhaps in the future, the brand will release different size options.

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The kit is made of the same durable powder-coated steel Solo Stove uses on its fire pits. It’s also corrosion resistant, so you can feel good spending a couple hundred dollars on a product that’ll actually last outside.

Little ledges pull out on either side of the fire pit holder, ideal for prepping buns or laying out a few condiments. Plus, who doesn’t like a little counter space when they’re cooking or grilling? The legs can also be folded in or out, depending on how high up you’d like the flame to sit.

This foldability also makes it easy to throw the Cookout Kit in your car and set up in mere minutes when you get to your destination.

And for big-time NFL fans, Solo Stove offers Cookout Kit customizations featuring the logo of your favorite team.

Where to Buy the Solo Stove Cookout Kit

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Solo Stove Cookout Kit

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Ready to turn your Bonfire 2.0 into a usable grill? Secure your own Solo Stove Cookout Kit on the Solo Stove website for around $300. The kit comes with a charcoal adapter, cookout frame and cast iron grill top.

The post Solo Stove Just Dropped a Portable Grill Kit That Fits Over Your Fire Pit appeared first on Family Handyman.

Luckily, Lumary has solved the age-old problem of spending multiple hours putting up and taking down holiday lights. The brand recently released permanent outdoor lights, which only have to be installed once and can be left up year-round (yes, really!).

What are the permanent outdoor lights from Lumary?

The permanent outdoor lights from Lumary come in a long string of outdoor LED lights that can be left up indefinitely. Choose from three different lengths: 53 feet, 105 feet or 158 feet. Each set ranges in price from $300 to $650 (depending on size).

Once you’ve installed your lights, control their color, brightness, and mode from the Lumary app, using Alexa or Google Assistant or from the included control box. Easily switch the colors from orange and purple for Halloween to red and green for Christmas without breaking out the ladder.

And if a singular light ends up broken or no longer works, don’t worry about throwing the entire strand away. Lumary makes each light with a detachable base so you can easily change one out.

Plus, these lights can withstand a wide range of temperatures (between -4 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the brand), so you don’t have to worry about extreme weather damaging them.

Where to Buy the permanent outdoor lights

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Lumary Permanent Outdoor Lights Max

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Purchase the Lumary permanent outdoor lights on the Lumary website or Amazon. Prices start at $300, and you can choose from three sizes. Now, who’s ready for some holiday decorating?

The post Go from Halloween to Christmas Instantly with These All-New Permanent Outdoor Lights appeared first on Family Handyman.

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$299 at Amazon

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The IQ Air AirVisual Pro Indoor Monitor is our top pick for indoor air quality monitors because it gives you tips on how to improve your air quality. The built-in air quality coach lets you know if you should run an air purifiersuch as the NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier or open/close your windows depending on your environment so you can be proactive about the changes you see on the monitor and the app.

To be honest, none of the monitors I tested ever picked up concerning levels of particulate matter, carbon monoxide or volatile organic compounds. The only time the IQ Air AirVisual Pro Indoor Monitor ever recommended any action was when I was cooking, and even then, it was just to open the window for a few minutes.

Another great feature is the ability to monitor outdoor air quality on the same monitor and app, similar to the air quality forecast on a weather app. I also like that it easily provides you with historical data to track changes in air quality over time, though, to be honest, the smartphone app was janky and unresponsive at times. Luckily, you can read your data simply by logging onto the company’s website and logging into your account.

Other than that, it checks all the boxes you’d want in an air monitor: lightweight, compact, accurate, easy to understand and app-compatible.

The post 5 Best Air Quality Monitors to Keep a Healthy Home, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Family Handyman.

Knowing just how good Dyson vacuums really are from personal experience, I was eager to learn more about their latest floor-cleaning device: The WashG1, Dysons first wet floor cleaner. You heard correctly: This new device tackles wet (and dry) debris in one go. Knocked over a bowl of cereal? No problem. The WashG1 can take care of it. All of it.

What is the Dyson WashG1?

The latest from Dyson floor care technology, the WashG1 is designed to clean wet and dry messes on hard floors, specifically across large spaces of tile, laminate, vinyl and sealed wood floors. Its 27-ounce clean water tank covers up to 3,100 square feet, and the device runs up to 35 minutes on one charge.

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$699.99 at Dyson

Product Launch

Dyson WashG1

$699.99 at Dyson

The WashG1 cleans floors using a combination of hydration, absorption and extraction. It automatically separates dry debris from wet for no-touch waste removal. Heres how it works: Two motorized microfiber rollers at the back and front of the machine counter-rotate to simultaneously remove wet and dry messes. The rollers flush with clean water throughout the process so as not to spread dirty messes across the floor. The device has the classic Dyson maneuverability to glide around furniture effortlessly.

You can adjust the hydration level on the WashG1 depending on what you’re cleaning. For instance, light spills and debris only require level one hydration, while sticky spills and mud might need level three.

After youve finished cleaning, simply dump the dirty water tank (its easy to remove, and you dont have to touch the dirty water) and empty the debris tray into the trash. The debris tray is quickly removed with the touch of a button and has a no-touch, hygienic emptying mechanism. When its back on its dock, the WashG1 charges and cleans itself by flushing its system. It will be ready to go again in a little over two minutes for your next clean.

And, to prove Dyson has thought of everything with this cleaning machine, its designed without sharp internal crevices to help reduce buildup inside the machine.

Where to Buy the Dyson WashG1

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$699.99 at Dyson

Product Launch

Dyson WashG1

$699.99 at Dyson

The WashG1 retails for $700 directly from Dyson, and youll currently receive two additional microfiber rollers free of charge.

Other Dyson Products We Love

Dyson V12 Slim

TheDyson V12 Slim is a compact, lightweight cordless vacuum. It weighs just 4.8 pounds yet has 30 percent more suction power than the Dyson V8, which is essential for keeping your space clean if you suffer from backaches and pain.

It has two cleaner heads: a standard de-tangling head and a fluffy head with a green light to reveal and pick up dust on hard floors. Plus, it comes with five accessories for crevice and upholstery cleaning. Its LCD screen displays battery life, runtime, particles picked up when a clog occurs and more. It also converts into a handheld vacuum to clean furniture and cars.

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We Tried It

Dyson V12 Slim

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Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde

This product is part of Dysons line of air purifiers, all tower-style models with cooling functions. TheFormaldehyde model (model TP09) detects, captures and destroys formaldehyde by converting it to water and CO.

The Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde is a high-end air purifier and cooling fan that lives up to its claims, says home improvement writer Elizabeth Heath in her Dyson air purifier fan review. The cooling features are excellent, as this tower fan really serves as a great way to cool a single room.

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Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde

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Dyson Outsize Plus

As Dysons largest cordlessstick vacuum, theDyson Outsize Plus is excellent for deep cleaning medium to large homes. It has high suctioning power for pulling up impressive amounts of hair and dirt and laser beam technology to capture dust particles. Plus, its equipped with an extra-large cleaning head and receptacle bin, so you can tackle more surface area with each gowithout emptying the vacuum.

Overall, I was extremely impressed with the Dyson Outsize Plus. Between cleaning my carpets, floors, furniture and car, it truly is a full-service hair removal machine, says our tester Nancy Snyder in her review of the Dyson Outsize Plus.

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Dyson Outsize Plus

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The post Dyson’s First Wet Vacuum Just Launched, and We Can’t Wait to Get Our Hands on One appeared first on Family Handyman.

Our team of shopping editors and product testers has taken a dozen fire pits through a battery of ten tests, including the popular Hampton Bay Fire Pit. Specifically, we tested the Hampton Bay Crossridge 30-inch, 50,000-BTU Antique Bronze Gas Fire Pit, which has an average rating of almost five stars at The Home Depot.

We wanted to see if it lived up to its reputation. Read on for our comprehensive Hampton Bay Fire Pit review.

What is the Hampton Bay Fire Pit?

The Hampton Bay Crossridge Fire Pit is a 30-inch, 50,000-BTU gas fire pit. It uses a standard propane tank and features a rustic aesthetic with a natural stone tabletop. With its substantial BTU rating, this fire pit can produce strong, tall flames that can be felt from several feet away. Its relatively neutral but attractive design can fit in backyards of many different styles.

Related: Breeo Smokeless Fire Pit ReviewMy Thoughts

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$179 at Home Depot

We Tried It

Hampton Bay Crossridge Fire Pit Table

A steel-constructed fire pit table with a natural slate top

$179 at Home Depot

Hampton Bay Fire Pit Features

This fire pit comes equipped with several notable features.

Natural Stone Tabletop

The 30-inch-by-30-inch stone tabletop is sturdy and strong. In fact, it is one of our testers’ favorite features of the Hampton Bay Fire Pit.

50,000 BTU Heat

The high BTU rating means the fire pit produces strong flames.

“On the max setting, the flame is high and deep orange, and it encompasses a majority of the bowl,” says Product Testing Manager Annamarie Higley. It also has one of the strongest low settings of all the fire pits our team has tested.

Enclosed Propane Tank

Your guests won’t even know your propane tank is there: The base of this fire pit serves as a complete enclosure for a standard 20-pound propane tank and its hose. However, we must note that our testers find the base to be “chintzy” and not properly aligned, which makes it feel somewhat out of place compared to the nice, sturdy stone tabletop.

Electric Ignition

This fire pit features an electric ignition that’s easy to use.

“You have to hold down the igniter, then turn the burner knob,” Higley explains. “Once it lights, you let go of the igniter and can adjust the flame size.”

How We Tested It

We put the Hampton Bay Fire Pit through its paces from shopping to set up.

Delivery and Packaging

The Hampton Bay Fire Pit pleased our testing team in several areas, but packaging and delivery were not one of them. Though it was delivered straight to the door with no pallet or freight required, our testers experienced an unpleasant situation upon opening the box.

“On the exterior, this box looked comparable to the rest, but we opened it up to find that lava rocks had spilled everywhere,” Higley said. “The tape on the box of rocks lifted off, so they were scattered throughout the entire box. Because of this, most items were coated in a thin layer of dustvery unpleasant and irritating.”

We felt we needed to mention this in case it’s a frequent occurrence, but it’s entirely possible that this doesn’t happen to you at all.

Assembly

This fire pit was the easiest for our testing team to assemble (moving on from the disastrous packing situation). They experienced some minor hiccups with aligning parts, but overall, it was easy, and the directions were simple to follow.

The steps were comparable to those of other fire pit models our team tested; nothing was out of the ordinary. The weightiness of the stone tabletop is the only thing that might slow you down, says Higley. Our team recorded a setup time of just 35 minutes.

Propane Hookup

The propane hookup was “super simple and easy,” according to Higley. You just screw the hose onto the propane tank. After connecting it, our testing team searched for leaks by spraying connections with soapy water and watching for bubbles as we turned the valve on. They’re happy to report no leakage occurred.

Use

Overall, the Hampton Bay Fire Pit is easy to use, although you may encounter minor setbacks. For instance, our team realized that they initially inserted the alkaline battery incorrectly, so they experienced some false starts during which a fair amount of gas must’ve built up in the hose.

“Once we addressed the issue and turned the fire pit table on, the flames were substantial and pretty smoky,” says Higley. “Oops.”

This inexplicably came with a screen that is not mentioned in the manual, on the box or on the website. However, some customer photo reviews feature the screen.

“Theoretically, we liked the screen because the flames felt more contained with it on, which gave us a sense of security,” Higley says. “That being said, it gave off a foul burning-rubber, chemical smell. It also started to warp and even incurred a burn mark after only 15 minutes of use. Without it on, the fire was more aggressive. There’s also no handle on the screen, so it could be dangerous to move and lift when hot because there’s no good way to grab it.”

After investigating further, we realized that this screen might only be intended for use during the initial setup to contain potential sparks from flying. However, there’s no information on the website or in the user manual, so we can’t be sure.

Flames and Heat

The Hampton Bay Fire Pit produces strong, tall flames on the highest setting (50,000 BTUs), which our testers appreciate. However, they note that the flames seem pretty susceptible to the wind.

“The flames move around easily, and it’s a little scary if you’re close to it,” says Higley. “You definitely wouldn’t want to set anything on the edge of the table, despite what vendor images imply.”

Why You Should Trust Us

Our team at Family Handyman consists of subject matter experts in home topics, as well as experienced, dedicated shopping editors and commerce writers who care about helping our readers make the right purchasing decisions for them.

We also have an in-house product testing team that actually shops for, assembles, and uses the products we review. For this Hampton Bay fire pit review, our product testers took the fire pit through a series of tests we’ve standardized for fire pits, looking at criteria such as packaging and delivery, assembly, ease of use, durability and longevity, heat emission, and value.

FAQ

How do I ignite a Hampton Bay fire pit?

Most Hampton Bay Fire Pits feature electric ignition, so it should be a simple matter of turning a knob and flipping a switch. However, each model may have differences. Be sure to read the user manual for the model you buy.

How heavy is the Hampton Bay fire pit?

Hampton Bay makes multiple fire pit models, so the exact weight depends on the one you buy. The one we testedthe 30-inch, 50,000-BTU Crossridge modelweighs almost 90 pounds out of the box.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

This fire pit has strong reviews on its primary online retailer, The Home Depot. Out of nearly 3,000 reviews, it boasts an average rating of 4.4 stars at the time of writing.

Buyer OCmom called it the “perfect fire pit,” while reviewer Steven said, “Great size, easy to assemble and puts off plenty of heat. Definitely a good addition to your backyard oasis!”

Some buyers noted things they’d change about the model.

For instance, buyer Susan said, “I’ve had this for a few years now. It intermittently goes out after burning for several minutes; after several restarts and turning the knob to the magic position, it stays lit. Rather annoying when trying to relax and enjoy the ambiance. Also the grout between the tiles is cracking and coming apart. When the flame does stay on, it’s wonderful and I love it.”

Overall, most buyers are happy with their purchase and get several years of use out of the fire pit.

Hampton Bay Fire Pit vs. Tiki Brand Fire Pit

Our product testers also tried the Tiki Brand customizable fire pit. The experience was different in some ways but the same in others. For one thing, the Tiki Brand customizable fire pit is, well, customizable. It costs substantially more at $499about double the pricebut a big part of the draw is that it’s customizable with various accessories.

During testing, Higley said, “This will probably appeal to a specific taste. It’s more modern-looking with a streamlined profile. It’s all black with rounded edges. It’s cone-shaped, and you can add a tabletop (included in purchase but shipped in a separate box), which would make it look more similar to the other fire pits.”

Like the Hampton Bay fire pit, the Tiki Brand fire pit was relatively easy to assemble but hard to move due to its weight. Our testers think the Tiki Brand pit has more longevity, as it feels much more durable and hefty. You can read our full Tiki Brand fire pit review for more details on the customizable propane fire pit.

Final Verdict

Our team liked the Hampton Bay Fire Pit for the most part, but they think it might be priced slightly high for it to be a must-buy value.

“It’s not a great value, which is a shame because the screen was a great concept, and the natural stone table top was pretty impressive,” Higley said. It might be worth the dough if you catch it on sale (which it often is). Shop for more fire pits with our guide to the best fire pits on Amazon.

Where to Buy the Hampton Bay Fire Pit

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$179 at Home Depot

We Tried It

Hampton Bay Crossridge Fire Pit Table

An antique bronze fire pit table that'll upgrade your patio

$179 at Home Depot

The Hampton Bay Fire Pit is available at The Home Depot for about $180.

The post Hampton Bay Fire Pit Review: Our Experts’ Honest Thoughts appeared first on Family Handyman.

When I first saw the Shark StainStriker advertised, I knew I had to try it. Its a super-compact, lightweight carpet and upholstery cleaner that tackles spills and messes anywhere in the home. As someone who has paid hundreds to professionally clean their carpets, I was excited to see how the StainStriker would perform. Heres how testing the portable cleaning machine went.

What is the Shark StainStriker?

The Shark StainStriker is a portable carpet and upholstery cleaning machine that spot-treats and removes stains. It uses a dual-activated solution to treat multiple surfaces throughout your home, including carpets, rugs, upholstery, furniture and more.

The compact cleaning machine weighs less than 10 pounds, so it’s easy to carry to any part of the home. The dual-activated cleaning solution uses OXY to clean tough stains like embedded dirt, pet messes and food stains. No premix or pre-treatment is required either. The StainStriker offers instant stain elimination.

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$99.99 at Sharkclean

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$109.99 at Amazon

I Tried It

Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner

A super-lightweight cleaning machine

$99.99 at Sharkclean

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$109.99 at Amazon

Shark StainStriker Product Features

Dual-Action Cleaning Solution and Powerful Suction

Sharks dual-activated cleaning solution is contained in separate tanks on the machine and comes together for stain-busting action in the cleaning handleno premix or pretreatment necessary. The handheld cleaning tool also features powerful suction to lift liquid, dirt and debris during cleaning. The StainStriker works on tough odors and stains from pets and even smokers.

Easy Cleaning and Storage

Weighing just 8.51 pounds, the StainStriker is easily portable. You can take it upstairs or downstairs, wherever you need to clean. Plus, you can tuck it away out of sight when not in use, and it doesnt take up much space. Its less than a foot wide, less than 3 inches long and 15 inches tall. The hose length is just over four feet, and the power cord is 12 feet long, so you should have no problem reaching from outlet to mess in an average-size room!

Whats In the Box

The StainStriker comes with 12 ounces of OXY Multiplier Formula and six ounces of CarpetXpert Deep Clean Pro solutionthe two cleaning liquids that combine to clean stains and spills. These are both mini sizes of the cleaning liquids, and Shark sells 32-ounce versions of the CarpetXpert and OXY Multiplier for $16 and $14, respectively.

Youll also get the 3.5-inch reversible bristle tool, the pet mess tool, an integrated crevice tool for hard-to-reach places and an instruction booklet.

Shipping and Returns

Shark offers free shipping on orders of $99 or more, so the StainStriker should ship for free. Theres also a 60-day money-back guarantee.

How We Tested It

I put the StainStriker through a series of tests using real-life, set-in stains and fabricated stains (stains I created solely to test the machines cleaning power). I was surprised by the results.

After unboxing the StainStriker, I examined all the parts to be sure attachments and cleaning agents were included per the product description. While removing the packaging, I noticed that the exterior of the dirty water tank (made of hard plastic) was scratched. It wasnt cracked or broken, and the scratches didnt affect the machines operation.

Id describe the scratches as cosmetic flaws, but the cleaning machine was very well packaged in the box, so Im unsure when the damage occurred. My guess is that the damage was a manufacturing default, not a shipping issue. Overall, the scratches were more of an annoyance than anything.

Next, I filled the StainStriker Tank with OXY Multiplier. I filled the CarpetXpert Tank with water and the CarpetXpert Deep Clean Pro solution. Once the machine was full, I walked it into the dining room, where there was a set-in wine stain that had been there for years, and plugged the machine in.

(Even full of water and cleaning solution, the StainStriker was easy for me to carry from room to room.) I was hopeful as I pressed the on/off button and got ready to attack the stain. I sprayed the stain using the button on the handle first, then scrubbed repeatedly, trying to remove the stain. I did that a few times and waited.

Unfortunately, the stain did not budge. In fairness, it is the mother stain of all stains. I had my carpets professionally cleaned recently, and the expert carpet cleaner couldnt get the stain to lift either. So, I went into the living room, over to a brown stain (on white carpet) next to the mantel.

The stain was either a result of spilled coffee or a pet accident and was disclosed to us by the prior homeowners, who had tried to remove it with no luck. The professionals couldnt remove itwith their industrial carpet cleanerseither. This time, I wasnt so hopeful. Still, I set the StainStriker next to the stain, plugged it in, and went to work. What happened next was magic.

The light brown stain (which was only noticeable in certain lighting, probably due to years of attempted removals) started to lift! I was shocked. I walked over to the fireplace multiple times throughout the day to ensure my eyes werent playing tricks on me. The stain was gone.

After that, I tried the StainStriker on upholstery. I had a sample of couch fabric handy from a recent furniture purchase that was perfect for the job. (Note: The fabric is light tan and prone to staining.) On one side, I rubbed in used coffee grounds and on the other, I smeared ketchup. Then, I let each stain sit for about four hours. After that, it was time to clean. I couldnt quite remove either stain entirely. I may have rubbed in each side a little too eagerly after my luck in the living room.

The StainStriker quickly pulled the coffee grounds and ketchup away from the fabric, but unfortunately, there were still shadows of the stains left on the fabric after it had dried from the cleaning. A few factors were working against the StainStriker. First off, how often will you violently rub in a stain when you make a mess in real life? Probably not often–or ever. You’re better off getting the StainStriker on a stain before its pressed into carpet or upholstery fibers. Additionally, darker and performance fabrics are easier to treat and clean.

Despite a few letdowns, I was still impressed with the StainStriker overall for several reasons. 1) Its easy to move, operate and clean. 2) Every stain is different, and the StainStriker was able to lift a stain that even professional carpet cleaners couldnt. 3) The cleaning solution smells excellent. While the StainStriker didnt fully lift the stains I created to test it, it removed the odor and left the fabric smelling fresh. 4) The StainStriker is affordable compared to other small, commercial-grade fabric and carpet cleaners.

The StainStriker is great if you frequently clean small spills and accidents, especially from pets. It even has a Pet Mess Tool, which I found as effective as the main cleaning head. The Pet Mess Tool isolates the dirty water from the machine for easy cleaning and zero cross-contamination.

My only qualm with the StainStriker is that its intended for spot cleaning, but theres only one fill line for the water tank (which takes water and CarpetXpert), so you have to fill it fully every time you use it. Additionally, you shouldnt leave unused cleaning solutions in either tank for more than 5-7 days, so some cleaning solutions will inevitably be wasted. That was a bummer, especially since the machine only comes with two small bottles of cleaning solution.

FAQ

Can you leave water in Shark StainStriker?

According to Shark customer support, you leave clean water in the StainStriker for a short period, of five to seven days. For long-term storage (weeks), they recommend storing unused cleaning solutions in the tank off the unit to prevent clogging or build-up in the machine. However, unused CarpetXpert solution (the solution thats diluted with water) should be discarded after short-term use.

The dirty water tank should be emptied and cleaned after each use to prevent odors, mildew, mold and bacteria.

Does the Shark StainStriker use steam?

No. It does not use steam; it uses water, suction, and two cleaning solutions.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

The Shark StainStriker has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon with more than 3,000 customer reviews. The consensus among customers is that the machine is lightweight, easy to operate and works well on carpet and upholstery. Many buyers say theyve had success removing stubborn stains, too. Additionally, several people like the clean smell the cleaning solution leaves behind and appreciate the impressive suction power.

Verified purchaser Mal says, I bought this to treat some old stains when it was on sale, and shortly thereafter had a pet that got VERY sick and managed to do significant damage on the rugs, couches and chairs in my home (including vomit, urine, feces, you name it). It has been worth its weight in gold and made the horrible experience somewhat manageable. Seriously, the house is even cleaner than it was before.

I’m a Shark devotee for life now, Mal adds. Blew my old Bissel out of the water. Love that it has a handle for easy carry, long cord for mobility, and you can leave the solution in the unit between uses. Also super easy to clean out the dirty water bin and cleaning heads. The suction is great. I wish the hose was a tad longer (have to move it around a bit) but can deal with that.

Honestly if you are on the fence and have a pet or kids, just buy it for the peace of mind, they say.

Shark StainStriker vs. Bissell Little Green HydroSteam

The Shark StainStriker is comparable to the Bissell Little Green HydroStem, which we tested for our guide, Best Carpet Cleaners for Pet Stains. However, when comparing the two products, the StainStriker is more compact and simpler to use (with a single-button on/off switch) than the HydroSteam. The HydroSteam also has a steam cleaning setting, which the StainStriker does not have, plus quieter operation.

Both carpet cleaning machines have easily removable dirty water tanks that can be dumped and cleaned thoroughly in the sink. Additionally, the StainStriker has a hose-cleaning tool and a pet-cleaning tool that keeps pet messes far away from the machine, and the HydroSteam does not have either. The StainStriker takes two cleaning solutions, while the HydroSteam only takes one, and the StainStriker has a wider cleaning brush head but a smaller dirty water tank.

Lastly, perhaps most importantly, the StainStriker retails for $90 less than the HydroSteam.

Final Verdict

At such a reasonable price point, I think the Shark StainStriker is a great tool to have in your arsenal of cleaning products. Of course, the machines effectiveness will depend on several variables: the fabric or carpet youre cleaning, the stain (red and oil-based stains are often more challenging to treat, for instance), and how long the stain has been left to sit.

However, the StainStriker is affordable, easy to operate, portable and effective on many stainsincluding old stains that professional carpet cleaners couldnt even get to budge! For that reason, Id recommend it to anyone who needs to stain-treat fabrics and carpets frequently (aka, people with pets and children).

Where to Buy the StainStriker

FAMILY HANDYMAN

$99.99 at Sharkclean

Shop at Walmart

$109.99 at Amazon

I Tried It

Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner

An impressive carpet cleaner for spot-treating stains

$99.99 at Sharkclean

Shop at Walmart

$109.99 at Amazon

You can buy the StainStriker directly from Shark, at Walmart and on Amazon. The retail price is $140, but the machine is often marked down.

The post We Tried the Shark StainStriker, and The Results Were Shocking appeared first on Family Handyman.