32 Things That Will Make Your Home Feel Like A 5-Star Hotel With A Motel Budget
Expect your guests to leave glowing reviews on TripAdvisor.
1. A new duvet cover because your old one is looking a little tattered, no? Despite costing less than a room service chicken club, this microfiber cover has over 50,000 5-star reviewers raving. They say it's buttery soft and comparable to ones from high-end brands.
Promising reviews: "I am enjoying the comfort, warmth, thickness, and quality of this duvet. No need for a hotel stay when you can have the same comfort and style at home!" — CW
" 10/10. Would buy again. I absolutely love this duvet cover. I bought it to replace my West Elm duvet cover and can't believe how much I love it. It is incredibly soft and was easy to put on my duvet with the ties that come built-in. It is a great quality for a very reasonable price. I bought a full-size duvet cover for my queen-size duvet, and it fits perfectly to give that fluffy duvet look." — Laura Baggaley
Get it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in sizes Twin–California King and 27 colors).
2. And a set of extra soft cooling "hotel" bedsheets with so many 5-star reviews (almost 250,000!), you'd think they were capable of permanently curing insomnia. No promises, but some people are saying they never want to get out of bed.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"I never write reviews, but I am the snob of all snobs when it comes to soft sheets, and these make me not want to get out of bed. Nine months pregnant and with complete insomnia, but these sheets make me not want to get out of bed ever. I just can't believe the prize. Seems like good quality. I'm in bed heaven!" — Samantha
"Feel like expensive high-end hotel sheets. I normally use flannel sheets year-round because it's the only material I like but these are my new favorite. Very soft and cooling. Fit our bed perfectly. I purchased both for our bed and our spare room and have only gotten compliments from guests. Great sheets without the huge sticker price." — Anna
Get them from Amazon for $37.97+ (available in 15 sizes and 40 colors)
3. A stainless-steel rainfall showerhead for a truly peak showering experience. It's not just that hotel showers hit differently because you've been at the beach all day — it's also the angle of the water! 🤓
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This is a beautiful showerhead, very thin, but feels quite sturdy and heavy. Installation took no more than five minutes. The showerhead has a very smooth, highly polished, mirror-like chrome finish. It gives a satisfying showering experience without wasting too much water. Absolutely no leaks whatsoever. Everybody in our family said they liked it. What else is there to say about a showerhead?" — Sadda Reddy
Get it from Amazon for $24.49+ (available in five sizes and four finishes).
4. A cozy waffle robe so you can feel like you're on your way to a fancy spa instead of your bathroom. Reviewers love this robe for its breathable fabric, durability, and unbeatable price.
Turquaz is a small business that sells robes and towels.
Promising review: "I have another waffle robe I got at a 5-star hotel, which is finally getting old. I looked everywhere on Amazon for a replacement and found this one. It's softer and higher quality than the expensive one. It didn't shrink or bleed after washing and drying because it's cotton and polyester." — kaitlyn2222
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in unisex sizes S–2XL and 11 colors, or see another option with sizes up to 7X for $28.50).
5. And a pair of fuzzy cross-band slippers with a cushy memory foam insole so you can feel like you're walking on clouds (expensive clouds!) while shuffling around your apartment. Your feet deserve a little pampering too, you know?
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"These slippers are amazing! Discovered them on TikTok and went back and forth about ordering them, but wow, they are so comfortable. I have barely taken them off since receiving them. They are so fluffy and stay on my feet surprisingly well when walking around the house. Can't wait until more colors are in stock to get another pair." — MSumm
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in women's sizes 5/6–9/10 and 14 colors).
6. Of, if you're going for realism, a pair of spa slippers you can customize with your initial. Unlike the disposable kind, these cotton slippies come with anti-slip soles and a sponge sole for support.
Authentic Style & Co. is a Californian small business that sells things for your beach vacation (or beach-themed staycation).
Promising review: "Purchased these for my wedding and love them! They are so comfortable too. Would def recommend." — Aubrey
Get them from Authentic Style & Co on Etsy for $29.94+ (available in women's sizes 5–12 and three colors).
7. A bedskirt because, NO, they're not just for hotels. It'll hide all the random junk lurking under your bed and make your bedroom feel more polished. Cleaning up before guests come over suddenly got way easier.
Amazon
Promising review:"This bedskirt does the job! We have a metal frame twin bed with a headboard and footboard, and it still works. Easy to put on (just lift the mattress and fit it on the box spring). Soft, lays nicely, no wrinkles." — Davis
Get it from Amazon for $9.89+ (available in sizes Full–California King and nine colors).
8. An elegant glass pitcher with a built-in strainer so you can enjoy some fancy lemon or cucumber water at home. I know it seems like something you can legally only enjoy while on vacation, but you really can have it whenever; it's one sliced-up fruit away!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This is a beautiful pitcher to put on a formal table. I received many compliments at my last dinner party! It's easy to clean. I would recommend that you carefully hand-wash it and store it. It reminded me of the glass beakers used in science classes. It is very beautiful and functional. I might purchase a second pitcher for the bar." — Katherine
Get it from Amazon for $21.39+ (available in four sizes).
9. No drill, wall-mounted amber bottles for anyone who loves the convenience of having their toiletries at eye-level. At first glance, the waterproof labels conjure up an Aesop vibe, so guests are gonna be like, "OK, Waldorf Astoria."
The kit comes with a silicone funnel so you can easily transfer your favorite toiletries. You can see how one TikTok user styled these in this TikTok.
Promising review: "These sleek black dispensers have completely transformed the look of my bathroom! The minimalist design and matte finish add a luxurious, hotel-like feel. Each dispenser is clearly labeled with elegant gold lettering. The quality is fantastic — sturdy and durable. The wall-mounted setup is both functional and pretty, decluttering my shower space and giving it a more organized, upscale vibe. Refilling is simple and mess-free, and the bottles are large enough to hold plenty of product, which is perfect for reducing frequent refills. If you're looking to elevate your bathroom and enjoy the convenience of a tidy, high-end setup, these dispensers are a must-have. They truly give off that five-star hotel experience!" — Sam
Get it from Amazon for $24.70+ (available in six different styles and quantities of one, two, or three).
10. And to put in one of those bottles: some Pharmacopia body wash, famously seen in Hyatt hotels. Made with argan oil, aloe, coconut oil, and green tea extract, the soap can moisturize while it cleanses. It also doubles as bubble bath, so grab a rubber ducky!
You can also grab the lotion, shampoo, and conditioner.
Promising review: "Bought this after staying in the Hyatt Regency Chicago. Great scent, not too thick and with natural ingredients and scents. Excellent combo of body wash and lotion. Mild aloe vera-type scent. Will buy again and highly recommend!" — SWIPE
Get it from Amazon for $29.95.
11. Foam sponges to help you expertly clean blinds, glass, baseboards, vents, railings, and more. The ridged U-shape helps it get into tight corners and scrub away dirt so thoroughly, you'll feel like a team of professionals came by for turndown service.
www.amazon.com
To activate, just soak this in water.
Promising review: " The sponges are great! They pick up all the pesky tidbits that a towel leaves behind when wiping a surface. They're great for dusting all types of surfaces, cleaning baseboards, etc. I use them to help clean the cages of my pets! The sponges are easy to clean after use and easy to store since they completely dry down. The sponges are also easy to rehydrate and become just as flexible as the first use. The sponges are a great value and great use. Side note: I love that they come in different colors. I assigned each color a different cleaning task essentially (I.e., bathroom, animals, etc.)." — Tricia
Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in four colors and three pack sizes).
12. A set of airy linen curtains so you can get some privacy without sacrificing sunlight. These are also ideal for when you want to forget there's no tropical view outside your bedroom.
BuzzFeed editor Chelsea Stuart says, "I have these in white, and I just adore them. They let in SO much light (but still offer privacy), and I love that they have visible texture. I was originally searching for real linen curtains but didn't want to shell out the $$$. When I found these, I wasn't really expecting much, but I thought I'd give them a shot, and wow — the quality is pretty incredible given the price. They're also rather lightweight."
Promising review: "These are beautiful curtains. Sheer enough to let the light in but full enough so you can't see in the house — even at night. They do have a bit of a hash texture I wasn't expecting, but I think it's nice." — MRC
Get a set from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in four sizes and three colors).
13. Oversize waffle-weave bath towels that look and feel like the ones you might find at the spa. They dry faster than the heavy terrycloth variety and just feel a little more luxe.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "These towels are large and the thickest towels we ever had, and I'm talking about the most expensive hotels we ever stayed at. I would imagine after dozens and dozens of washing and bleaching these towels may equal those used at the Waldorf Astoria and the Plaza in New York City. You won't find much lint on your lint trap after drying. These will last a lifetime!!!" — PS
"Just finished washing towels and not one speck of lint! Just what I wanted. These towels are not plushy. They are quick dry, so they're textured and a lighter weight than a traditional thick plush towel. It is exactly what I wanted. In Europe, they use towels like this because many homes do not have dryers; everything is line-dried. The thick, plushy towels don't dry well and easily get musty and odorous. These are A+++." — Sammi
Get a pack of four from Amazon for $38.99 (also available in a two-pack and as a 12-pack of washcloths).
14. An actually-affordable countertop ice maker for anyone who needs more ice than their little freezer can provide. It's self cleaning and makes nine cubes in six minutes — there's even a scoop and basket to really sell the hotel experience of foraging for ice.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
This device makes those hollow nugget ice cubes commonly found in fountain drinks that provide that excellent *cronch*. It comes with a handle so you can make ice on the go. Keep your new device in tip-top shape with ice maker tablets.
Promising review: "I've been looking for a nugget ice machine for a while now that wouldn't break the bank. Specifically a NUGGET ice machine as I'm particular when it comes to the ice I have to have in my water. When I found this one, I had to order it and couldn't wait! I love EVERYTHING about it! I've already made a full bag of ice to take with me to work. My husband said I'm like a little kid at Christmas. It's quiet. It doesn't take up a lot of counter space. WORTH EVERY PENNY!!" — ThatArmyVetsWife01
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in three styles).
15. And to complete the experience, a classic 3-liter ice bucket. It comes with a scoop, tongs, lid, strainer plate, and user guide. Thanks to the double-wall insulation, it'll keep your ice cold without freezing your hands or dripping condensation on your table.
It comes with a lifetime warranty!
Promising review: "There are many different choices of ice buckets at this price point. We bought this and are pleasantly surprised at how nice this is. It's good enough to use at a fancy party, the capacity is good, finish is smooth stainless steel. We're happy with our purchase." — Charles H.
Get it from Amazon for $31.97+ (available in five styles).
16. A headboard lamp for anyone who loves the ample lighting options found in fancy hotels. Now your partner can get some shuteye while you indulge in juuuust one more chapter — OK, two. Three? Oh my god, is that sunlight? Is it dawn? Anywayyy, you can just slide this over your headboard to enjoy direct lighting when a standing or nightstand light isn't an option.
This is designed to slide over headboards up to 1.5 inches thick but reviewers say it will stretch for larger headboards. It's designed to work with a 40W bulb max.
Promising review: "Great little headboard lamps. Make reading before going to sleep a joy. No more trying to find the right light angle. Love them, so I decided to get a couple for my husband." — Gurpreet
Get two from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in three styles).
17. A chic wall-mounted towel rack in case you don't have a linen closet — or at least, a linen closet with room for more towels. It'll save space *and* recreate that hotel experience of having a smorgasbord of towels to choose from. I imagine this would work especially well in a guest bathroom!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
People also use this rack for storing purses, rolling pins, wine bottles, yoga mats, umbrellas, and all sorts of other items.
Promising review:"Anyone with a small bathroom knows that free space is almost non-existent, and these have been so great. We bought two, so we had one for each bathroom, and we were able to get the majority of our towels up on them and looking nice (which means we freed up space in the linen closet)!" — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $19.82 (also available in a two-pack).
18. And a mason jar bathroom set for Q-tips, cotton balls, lotion, flossers, and anything else that would look much better outside its original packaging. Again, a great choice for a guest bathroom, just saying.
Promising review:"These jars are so cool. The small ones look so cute on my white shelves in the bathroom. The soap dispenser is great. It not only looks cool, it works great. And the jar for your toothbrush and toothpaste is even cool looking and so useful. I highly recommend this set." — Kelly
Get it from Amazon for $17.49 (available in five finishes, including a stunning gold!).
19. A soft muslin throw blanket pulling off that effortlessly cool and minimalist look you might find in a trendy hotel in Upstate New York. It's 100% cotton, so it's moisture-wicking and great for year-round cuddles.
Promising review: "This blanket is the most amazing thing ever! It is incredibly soft and lightweight. It is warm but not overwhelming. It looks great as a throw for decoration but so comfortable you have to use." — Fairykisses
Get it from Amazon for $39.89+ (available in 14 colors and 6 styles).
20. Motion-activated LED light strips that'll illuminate your way to the toilet in the middle of the night. They're so handy in hotels, why not bring the idea home?
www.amazon.com
These charge up with a standard outlet or four AA batteries.
Promising review:"These are great; I absolutely love them. I placed them on my steps, and they are just a showstopper! Everyone had to ask about them. I especially love that you can use them connected to an outlet or without by simply placing batteries in the battery compartment. Best thing ever!!!" — Jesse
Get one meter from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three lengths and in cool or warm white).
21. Shower steamers if you don't have a bathtub but really miss the bubble baths you took on your last vacation. The discs will dissolve as you shower, releasing fragrances like lavender, eucalyptus, and vanilla.
Promising review:"These are the best shower steamers I've ever tried. Usually they aren't strong enough or they melt too quickly to even enjoy. These are also bigger than what you can buy at the store. I'd say they are about the size of a hockey puck. One lasted my entire shower and still smelled amazing even after I was done. These are the best shower steamers, hands down. I would definitely buy them again." — Krista
Get them from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in two varieties).
22. A roll of Novogratz peel-and-stick wallpaper to capture some of the whimsy you can find in newer hotels. They all love patterned wallpaper! And you know what? I do too. The paper is repositionable and removable and works best on smooth, clean surfaces.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Check out more patterns from Tempaper. See one way to use it in this TikTok from @astoldbymichelle, who revamped their kitchen cabinets with this gorgeous paper.
Promising review: "In love with this daisy paper!! My project turned out beautifully!! Good quality and amazing adhesion!" — Tony
Get a 16.5-foot roll from Amazon for $24.49.
23. A set of wildly popular"hotel" pillows so you can feel like you're falling asleep at the Ritz. Reviewers rave that these are the perfect balance of fluffy and firm, meaning you can prop yourself up for a good in-bed TV binge. Plus, they're breathable and cooling, so you won't overheat while wrapped in all those blankets.
Promising reviews:"These had great reviews, but I was still a bit skeptical. I'm a bit of a pillow snob. These pillows — these amazing, heavenly pillows — are now my favorite part of going to bed. Soft but firm. How does that work? It gives support for me to sleep slightly propped up but I sink into this comfortable personal cloud. Soft but firm. My head isn't sinking through the pillow to rest on my mattress, but I feel comfortably enveloped. Heaven. I bought two but think that would be too much fluff, so now my husband and I each have one. Buy them. Add to cart. Buy now with one click. Stop the research. You've found the pillows you were looking for." — Marissa Urey
"God himself must use these pillows. I have (or had, haha) insomnia, not to mention a bad neck/back *and* hot flashes. The comfort and the cooling is AMAZING (even with a silk pillowcase). Thank you, TikTok, for influencing me!!!!" — Rickie White
Get a set of two from Amazon for $42.49+ (available in three sizes).
24. A cold brew coffee maker that lets you make your java at night (when you're actually awake), so all you have to do is stumble to the fridge in the morning. Just pour coffee grounds (or tea leaves!) into the pitcher and let them steep overnight, and you'll feel like you have a café right in your lobb— I mean, kitchen.
Promising review: "I LOVE this product so much! I drink iced coffee on the daily but the system I had just wasn't cutting it for me. I didn't know how to brew cold coffee at home (all we have is a Keurig, and there's no cold brew option) so I would go buy iced coffee from Dunkin' every morning. Now don't get me wrong, I love my Dunkin', but I wanted to find a way to be able to make that same iced coffee at HOME, and I think my wallet and gas tank wanted me to figure that out too. I found out about this product through TikTok and it is a GAME CHANGER. All you have to do is put coffee grounds in the filter, fill up the main compartment 3/4 full with water (I use water from my fridge), screw the filter into the lid and screw the lid shut, shake it a little to put the coffee grounds to work, and let it do its magic for 12-24 hours! This is probably the best investment I've ever made. You need this!!" — Carmen E.
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in two sizes and three lid colors).
25. A bed canopy adding a little royal glam to your sleeping situation. Sometimes, all you need is a gauzy covering to make you forget about the pile of clothes in the corner.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I LOVE this canopy! It's great for the price. It takes a minute to figure out which way it goes on the bed, but don't get discouraged; you'll figure it out. This is meant to hang from the ceiling, but you can make it work on posts. I tied the hook strings around the bedpost, and it holds great. It's a great canopy." — Teka
Get it from Amazon for $22.95+ (available in three styles).
26. A set of gorgeous hand blown wine glasses to make you feel like you're sitting at a chic hotel bar. These work for both red and white wines, and reviewers like how nicely they open up reds.
Promising review: "These glasses add just the right amount of luxury to a good meal. They are not the thinnest you'll find, but they are nothing like a thick glass. That being said, they still feel delicate and will feel like being cared for. The rim feels nice for my almost weekly meal of crab legs with a Chardonnay. I like that they feel somewhat right for either white or red." — Craig W.
Get a set of two from Amazon for $22.99 (also available in a set of four or with a decanter).
27. A set of drill brushes so effective, you'll be shocked how clean your bathroom used to be. A hotel would never put up with cloudy glass doors or soap-scummed up tile — just saying.
www.amazon.com
The set comes with a 2-inch flat brush, a 4-inch flat brush, and a round brush. The drill isn't included, but you can grab a basic Black and Decker one ($29 on Amazon) that'll do the trick.
Promising review:"I thought my hard water stains would never come off my shower doors, but I bought this awesome brush set, and it's amazing! I've tried all the hacks — drier sheets, clean erasers, lemon, vinegar — nothing works like this brush! I used Zep shower cleaner with it! In the picture, the side on the right is the part of the door I cleaned, and I still have to clean the left side." — Traci D.
Get it from Amazon for $18.95 (available in six colors and stiffness levels).
28. A modern waterfall faucet to add a spa-like feel to your bathroom. Reviewers say they were surprised at how easy it was to install.
Promising review:"Completely beautiful and modern. It was very easy to install; I did so in a matter of minutes. This was a really nice upgrade to my bathroom." — ca mom
Get it from Amazon for $37+ (available in four finishes).
29. A rechargeable light-up mirror similar to the kind you can find at hotels. One side has a normal reflection while the other shows a 10x magnification so you can perfect your makeup to the micrometer or zero in on that ooooone little eyebrow hair that's out of place.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I love this mirror! Looks great in the bathroom. It's a great value for such a great product. I couldn't do my makeup without it. It also has a light. Reminds me of mirrors in fancy hotels. :)" — William T.
Get it from Amazon for $39.95+ (available in four styles).
30. A mid-century accent chair because every hotel room has one. While I personally have no desire to sit in a hotel one, an at-home version is great for reading, crafting, or contemplating. This particular armchair is under $100 despite boasting solid wood legs and thick foam cushioning.
Promising review: "This chair is really nice, in my opinion, for the money. It can be a bit daunting to put together, but it's not terrible. The 'leather' looks nice, and the chair is sturdy. It comes with little feet that can be attached to level the chair, but the legs on mine were even, so the extra parts weren't necessary. I really like it because it's light enough to move out of the way if it isn't needed and easy to bring back into a grouping when it is needed. I am happy with the purchase." — Rabid Reader
Get it from Amazon for $77.99+ (available in six styles).
32. A custom hotel-style keychain so you can feel like you're on vacation every time you come home. This would also be a great gift for anyone who recently moved or bought a home.
Drive 'Til Dawn / Etsy
Drive 'Til Dawn is a small business that sells custom keychains.
Promising review: "Beautiful and high quality. Seller was also very responsive!" — Kelsi
Get it from Drive 'Til Dawn on Etsy for $13.13+ (available in single- or double-sided styles).
Reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.
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- CNN
Amazon shoppers love this inflatable lounger. I put it to the test in the summer heat
Every summer seems even hotter, sweatier and stickier than the last. If you don't live near the beach or have access to a pool, you might find yourself with limited options for a reprieve from the stifling heat. But creating an at-home oasis doesn't have to be complicated or costly. Highly rated on Amazon, the Sloosh Inflatable Lounger is an under-$30 find that promises to give you personal, cooling bliss in just a few simple steps. I went hands-on with the Sloosh lounger for an afternoon to see if it was worthy of becoming a summertime staple. Sloosh Inflatable Tanning Pool Lounger Float A versatile inflatable best suited for at-home use, the Sloosh lounger can pull double duty as both a tanning bed or splash pad and a roomy pool float. Even when it's on sale for $25, it's still more expensive than other inflatables, but its comfy design and durable build are sure to elevate your outdoor relaxation experience. It's more versatile than other pool floats One of the main selling points of the Sloosh lounger is that it can be used both as a pool float and a pool itself. Unlike other floats, the Sloosh can be filled with water to create a personal pool of relaxation for tanning or keeping cool. The high, four-wall design helps keep water in, so even if you get in and out of the lounger multiple times, you won't be dumping loads of water out with each trip. Though it might not seem like much, a few inches of water can make a huge difference in helping cool you off on scorching days, especially if you're miles from the nearest pool or beach. Plus, if you've got small kiddos, you could use the Sloosh as a makeshift kiddie pool or splash pad for them to play in. With some help, I was able to fill up the lounger by carrying buckets of water from the sink (city life!), but ideally, you'd want an outdoor garden hose on hand to make things go faster. This design not only keeps water in when on land but it also helps keep water out once you decide to take the Sloosh into the pool. Surrounded by those high walls on all sides, you can stay relatively dry atop the water while lounging in the Sloosh. As long as the drain hole on the float's bottom remains tightly closed, you're free to gently roll or change positions without fear that one wrong move will dump you into the water. And if you get a little hot, you can always add water to the Sloosh while it floats, but we'd recommend being conservative with the amount to ensure it maintains its buoyancy. Related article The 18 best aboveground pools to cool off in this summer, according to experts It's comfortable The Sloosh lounger was very comfortable. I'd even go as far as to say it could rival some of the air mattresses I've slept on. The inflatable base lifts your legs, bottom and back off the ground, keeping them cushioned from whatever hard surface might be underneath you. For me, the Sloosh lounger was just the right mix of cushion, bounce and support. I didn't feel like I was sinking into the ground, but it also wasn't so firm that I couldn't relax my weight into it. Plus, because it's inflatable, you can always add or release air until you find the most comfortable fill for you. The roomy rectangular design of the Sloosh gave me plenty of room to shift around too. Whether I was lying on my back, stomach or side, I never felt cramped. Though there was room to spare, it was never so vast that I felt the Sloosh was cumbersome or unnecessarily empty; essentially, it gave me the perfect amount of personalized lounging space. Unlike with other floats and inflatables I've tried, the Sloosh lounger didn't have any rigid seams that poke and prod you as you're trying to relax. The UV-resistant PVC build felt smooth to the touch wherever it made contact with my skin, and the lounger was also free from any harsh synthetic or plasticky smells. I also liked the included headrest, which you can detach and use elsewhere as a pillow if you decide to change positions. With my lower back on the headrest, my feet and legs fit comfortably inside the lounger. When I wanted to recline back more, I set my feet on top of the outer edge of the float, which was just as comfortable a position. I tested Sloosh's large-sized lounger, which was roomy enough to support my almost 5-foot-7-inch frame, but the brand does offer an extra-large size that will give you 15 more inches of length and 11 extra inches of width. The Sloosh is also designed with some thoughtful features that increase the overall lounging experience, like the aforementioned inflatable headrest for added support, two cup holders for your favorite beverages and an attached exterior rope to tether yourself to other floats or dock yourself to something stationary. Since it's currently on sale for $25, you'll be lucky to find a more affordable pool float or tanning lounger that offers the same level of versatility, comfort and quality design as the Sloosh. Related article The 16 best pool lounge chairs, according to design experts Setting it up was simple Though the Sloosh lounger didn't come with any assembly instructions, it was pretty straightforward to figure out what goes where. For the main lounger, there are two points for inflation: one on the outside that inflates the exterior sides and one on the inside that inflates the ribbed base. The Sloosh lounger also comes with an inflatable headrest, which you can clip to the back of the lounger to hold it in place. The only pain point is that all these sections have to be inflated separately. This entire inflation process took just over five minutes, though I did make use of an electric air pump to speed things up. When you're done lounging, you can release any water from inside the float using the interior drain hole. From there, you'll pull out and pinch the inflation nozzles to release air from the lounger. This job is best suited for two people: one to keep the inflation nozzles held open and the other to help press down on and roll up the body of the lounger. With the air out, I was able to get the float and headrest back into the original box, but I'd recommend finding a separate bag or storage option for long-term or frequent use, since the cardboard box is bound to get soggy or damaged over time. It feels durable Pool floats don't have a reputation for being crafted with the highest quality materials; they lose air, rip or pop seemingly out of the blue. I even tried to use a brand-new pool float instead of an air mattress once and woke up with my head on the floor and a deflated sheet of plastic beneath me. Needless to say, I had pretty low expectations for the Sloosh lounger. While it's difficult to simulate a whole summer of use in an afternoon of testing, I did my best to test the lounger's durability by jumping on it, throwing it around, dragging it across grass and concrete with a person inside it, and leaving it to sit in direct sunlight for over four hours. To my pleasant surprise, the Sloosh lounger held up well against the roughhousing. The only real signs of wear were some scuff marks on the bottom of the lounger, which you could wipe clean if you desired. Most impressively, the lounger consistently held its air throughout the day. After leaving it sitting in the hot sun, I expected it to feel slightly less bouncy when I returned a few hours later, but it still felt as if I had just inflated it. Even after jumping and flopping around on it, the Sloosh didn't appear to suffer any major air loss. The PVC material is thick enough to withstand scratches and compression without making the lounger feel heavy. Plus, all the small parts on the Sloosh, like the inflation nozzles, clasps for the headrest and docking rope felt just as soundly made. I also appreciated that the box for the Sloosh included two vinyl repair patches, so you can easily fix up your lounger if it does get a small hole. There are lots of color options Maybe you couldn't care less about what your inflatable lounger looks like. But if you do, you'll be happy to hear that Sloosh's lounger comes in an array of colors and prints, including nine iterations of the tropical leaf print one I tested, nine solid color options and nine other patterns. You can also grab the Sloosh lounger in an oval design. While the color won't affect the performance of the lounger, it's still nice to be able to choose something that matches your preferred relaxation aesthetic. You need a pump to inflate it My main gripe with the Sloosh lounger was that, despite the box claiming that it was 'easy to inflate,' it didn't come with any sort of air pump. It also didn't come with directions for how to inflate or assemble it properly. Granted, if you've ever inflated anything before — like another pool float, an air mattress or even a bike tire — you'd be able to figure out the relatively simple process. I ended up using an electric air mattress pump to get the Sloosh set up. You could also probably use a manual air pump for quick inflation, but I would not recommend blowing this up by mouth, unless you want to feel severely lightheaded. It's not great for taking on the go While the pump immensely sped up the process and had the main lounger inflated in just over a minute, having to depend on it for inflation is inconvenient. This method works fine if you're planning to use the lounger within a few feet of your own home, but if you want to take it the beach, park or local pool, you'll have to bring it already inflated or pack the pump in your bag and hunt down a place to plug it in — both of which are incredibly awkward options. This severely limits the lounger's portability, and though it might not be a deal breaker for at-home users, for those looking to lounge elsewhere, a complicated setup is the last thing you want when you're trying to relax. Even on sale for $25, the Sloosh lounger is still more expensive than some other run-of-the-mill pool floats, but what you're paying for is superior quality, comfort and versatility — all of which are bound to improve your precious relaxation time. While I didn't love that there's no pump included, you can grab one for less than $15 on Amazon to significantly speed up the setup process. Though it might not be the perfect option for travel, the Sloosh Inflatable Lounger is a handy at-home aid for those without easy access to a pool or beach. It's also something that kids, teens and adults can all make use of. Let's just say, you'll be glad you have it in your home the next time a heat wave rolls through. Can you tan on a pool float? Can you tan on a pool float? Being in any direct sunlight — whether on a pool float or not — increases your exposure to UV radiation and increases the likelihood that your skin might burn. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen on your face and body to prevent skin damage. You should reapply at least every two hours, as well as directly after swimming. Do you tan faster in a pool? Do you tan faster in a pool? According to The University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center, surfaces like water, snow and even sand can reflect UV rays from the sun. This means you're getting direct UV exposure from the sun as well as indirect exposure scattered from the surrounding surfaces. UV rays can also reach below the surface of water, so whether you're swimming or sitting poolside, you should be dutiful about applying and reapplying sunscreen to keep your skin protected. CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy tested the Sloosh Inflatable Tanning Pool Lounger Float, assessing it for comfort, durability and overall value.
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Travel + Leisure
13 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
These Podiatrist-loved New Balance Shoes Are a Favorite Among Nurses and Travelers
New Balance sneakers are the stylish 'dad shoes' that non-dads can't get enough of—and they're often the first walking shoe brand podiatrists recommend to patients with foot issues. It's partly because of those doctor referrals that New Balance shoes are some of the most-bought and widely loved on Amazon, several boasting tens of thousands of ratings. Take a look at the retailer's list of the best-selling road running shoes, and you'll find New Balance styles sprinkled in amid Brooks sneakers that cost nearly twice as much. According to reviewers, these Fresh Foam Roav V1s aren't just 'a dream for runners'—they're also great for frequent travelers, avid walkers, nurses on their feet for hours each day, and folks who deal with chronic foot pain. They happen to be up to 25 percent off right now, too, so go ahead and buy yourself a new pair of comfy shoes that'll make your doctor proud and your feet happy. These Roav V1 sneakers hail from New Balance's Fresh Foam collection. These shoes boast cushioned, shock-absorbing midsoles meant for long-distance running, trails, and other high-impact activities. The Fresh Foam also provides high rebound, a feature that promotes energy return, making it beneficial for marathon running and even American Ninja Warrior training. The Roav V1 style combines peak road running performance and casual aesthetics, making it the perfect option for an everyday sneaker. These sneakers also feature New Balance's signature Ndurance rubber outsole technology, ensuring they're extra secure in high-wear areas that would normally start ripping at the seams. They also have a unique wavy heel (named the Ultra Heel) that softly hugs your ankle, improving the fit and adding additional support. While they aren't billed as slip-on sneakers, reviewers say that this special heel design makes them easy to slide into hands-free. A testament to how comfortable they are, one customer said they were able to cover 30 miles over a three-day period while wearing them. This included 'climbing stairs, running through subways, walking along cobblestone paths, through wet grassy areas, and more.' They described the feeling as cloudlike: 'Never once did my feet, knees, or back ache.' Another shopper echoed this, writing, 'I walked hundreds of miles in one pair over the summer, and only retired them because they got really dirty and gross in the rain in Ireland. I am on my feet all day for work and my feet are never sore or tired.' Of the more than 17,000 Amazon shoppers who have given these New Balance shoes a five-star rating, many report that they've dealt with foot pain issues previously, including plantar fasciitis. One reviewer who's had three bunion surgeries and received a diagnosis of Morton's neuroma wrote that they bought the Fresh Foam Roav V1 sneakers at the recommendation of their podiatrist. They report that they love them for physical therapy appointments—especially because they don't look like typical orthopedic shoes. On the contrary, these podiatrist-recommended sneakers are actually quite cute. The mix of textures—including the mesh panels, ribbed banding, and wavy heel—adds tons of visual interest. Plus, there are more than a dozen different color combinations to choose from, some with watercolor outsoles or vibrant hues throughout the upper. Several styles are currently marked down by up to 25 percent off, with prices as low as $64. But they aren't the only New Balance sneakers on sale at Amazon right now—we found more podiatrist-loved styles starting at just $53, below. At the time of publishing, the price started at $52. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
