We review 100s of products a month — here are 7 we would actually recommend from March
Because we're obsessed with testing products — "Is it worth buying?" is one of our favourite questions — we've curated a list of things we've tried and, importantly, actually liked from the past month. The products listed below got our editors through weekend bike-a-thons, spring cleaning sessions and hours spent on a walking pad.
Scroll ahead to shop the products we reviewed in March that we would wholeheartedly recommend — and get a sneak peek of the items we're testing in April.
I bike a lot, so I'm constantly on the lookout for lightweight zip-up jackets that I can throw over a sweat-wicking top (this one from Uniqlo is my go-to). I snapped up this QUEENIEKE workout jacket simply because it looks a lot like one I have from a pricey athleisure brand — but it's less than a third of the price. I've worn the jacket on several early season bike rides (as well as at the gym or while running errands) and it's lightweight and airy, plus the thumbholes keep the sleeves from riding up — which is integral while biking! I found that while it fits true to size it is a bit slim, so you could definitely size up if you don't want something so close to the body. The only other thing to keep in mind is that it does have a cropped silhouette. While I don't mind it for daily wear, I did find that it rode up a bit while cycling. — Hilary Hagerman, Lifestyle & Commerce Managing Editor
For lack of a better description, prior to using the Angry Mama Microwave Oven Steam Cleaner, my microwave was gnarly. There was splattered, stuck-on food in every nook and cranny you can imagine, and I felt I needed a more powerful cleaning tool other than regular soap and water to tackle the mess.
The Angry Mama steam cleaner is an interesting little gadget. You fill it with vinegar and water and microwave it for 5-7 minutes; allegedly, this combination will cut your cleaning time in half. Considering how absolutely disgusting my microwave was before using it, I think that claim is correct. Don't get me wrong, a little bit of elbow grease is still required for tougher splatters, but overall, it made cleaning my microwave so much easier than it would have been with only a cleaning solution or soap and water. It's not a miracle worker, but it helps. - Kayla Kuefler, Senior Shopping Editor
What if I told you one of my favourite sweaters is from Amazon? Well, it's true, my friends. To be honest, I wouldn't have believed it myself. However, this PRETTYGARDEN Button-Down Cardigan is the perfect chunky knit ever, and I'll tell you why.
It's not too heavy, it has the perfect oversized silhouette and it's not itchy in the slightest. And the gold button details make it look way fancier than it is. As for the sleeve length, they're not too long or too short. At $60, it might be considered pricey for Amazon, but I think it's well worth it.
It's super versatile, as I've worn it both casually and dressed up. You can rock it buttoned up or unbuttoned with a tank underneath for more of a cardigan vibe. I find it's the perfect go-to for when you're unsure of what to wear. I have it in grey, but I'm tempted to purchase it in more colours, as it has quickly become a staple in my wardrobe.
My only gripe is that the buttons kind of feel like they're hanging on for dear life. I haven't had a problem with them falling off, but I just wish they felt a little more secure. — Melina Brum, Shopping Editor
In response to Trump's ongoing tariff threats, I, like many Canadians, am trying to swap out my usual cleaning products for Canadian alternatives (I made a guide explaining how you can do so here). In my research, I came across The Unscented Company, a women-owned, B Corp Certified company dedicated to sustainable practices.
I have been using the brand's toilet cleaner tabs for about a month now and so far, so good. The small Mentos-sized tabs dissolve in water and are made from 99.9 per cent naturally derived ingredients. The brand recommends using them 2-3 per week for regular cleaning or daily if you have a very dirty toilet. I will say they're not as powerful as regular toilet bowl cleaners, but they're great for more frequent, lighter jobs. They also have no powerful cleaning smell, and because they're in tab form, they're super easy to use. - KK
I am a perfume collector. I love the idea of having a signature scent, but honestly, I will never be that girl, as collecting different fragrances brings me so much joy. My most-used scent of late is Merit Beauty's Retrospect L'Extrait de Parfum. It has keynotes of bergamot, jasmine and musk and smells expensive and elegant. To paint you a picture: Retrospect smells like you have a fresh blow-out, you're wearing your most butt-lifting jeans, and you just made flirty eye contact with someone on the street. If that scene were a scent, it would be Merit's Retrospect L'Extrait de Parfum. - KK
I've been eyeing New Balance 530s for a while now, and after wearing them for a couple of months, I don't know why I haven't owned a pair sooner. Not only are they cute (in my opinion), but they're super comfortable, too. I've been wearing them on my walking pad recently, and my feet don't hurt an ounce. I noticed a huge change from my previous choice of workout footwear.
They're not narrow, but they aren't bulky, either. I find them incredibly lightweight, and they don't uncomfortably poke or irritate me in any way. And the best part? They felt like they were broken into already — I haven't had one blister from them!
One thing I will note is to keep sizing in mind. I ordered my true size, 8.5, but I definitely could've sized down to an 8. — MB
This grass-fed bovine collagen powder supports skin, hair, nails, joints and digestion. Can I say definitively that I've seen results? Not really. But, on my quest to eternal youth and glowing skin, I will keep using it. What I like about the Great Lakes Wellness Collagen powder is that it's unflavoured (genuinely unflavoured), dissolves beautifully, and has no aftertaste. I usually add it to my morning smoothies or yogurt for an immediate protein boost (there are nine grams of protein per 1.5 tbsp). Overall, I like it. I'm curious if I will see results with long-term use and will continue adding it to meals for extra protein. - KK
Hoka Bondi 9 Women's Shoes
NETVUE by Birdfy Smart Bird Feeder with Camera
Skylight Calendar: 15-inch Digital Calendar
Aritzia The Effortless Pant Cropped - Crepette
UNIQLO:U Crew Neck Short-Sleeve Tee
Nellie's Laundry Soda - Concentrated Laundry Detergent Powder
Cleaner Kit for AirPods
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Buzz Feed
3 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
30 Affordable Products That Give Off Quiet Luxury Vibes
A pair of retro oval sunglasses similar to the Celine pair that are just a *tad* bit too expensive to justify buying (okay, they're actually way out of my budget). But don't worry, these look just like them and they'll still protect you from UVA and UVB rays while making you look like a celeb. Or a pair of rounded rectangle sunglasses that'll even make Donatella Versace do a double-take and wonder where you got them. The eye-catching gold detailing on the sides and the included lens wipe have reviewers saying they are going to buy these again in different colors. A chunky knit chenille throw blanket to add a bit of texture to your living space. It doesn't shed, is machine washable, AND is 100% handmade. If you need me, I'll just be imagining I'm royalty in my own living room with this blanket. A faux leather bag featuring magnetic closures to make it extra wide to fit all of the day's necessities and more. Reviewers rave about how this looks just like the Polène Cyme bag. It's big enough to fit a water bottle, an iPad, and books, and even comes with a small zipper pouch for your smaller items that always get lost at the bottom of your purse. A wall-mounted towel rack to make it feel like you're living in a day spa that has perfectly rolled towels at your service. You can store large towels and washcloths and easily access them near the shower entrance without doing a dripping wet dance to the linen closet because you forgot to put out a towel. A pair of sling-back mules radiating "I only shop at Chanel" vibes, but really, you got these off of Amazon. (Yay!) The heel is enough to elevate you *and* your shoe game, but reviewers say these are still comfortable enough to make it through their day. A carafe with a matching glass meant to replace all those wasteful plastic water bottles and give a more stylish look to your hydration station (aka your bedside table). For less than $30, this investment is definitely worth it. An RFID-blocking travel wallet big enough to hold your passport, IDs, credit cards, money, plane ticket, and even a sim card! This wallet not only protects your important items, it's also elegant enough that you might just use this as your everyday wallet or use it as a clutch for a fancy dinner. A knit short-sleeve shirt that makes it seem like business casual is the only dress code you know. The V-neck, ribbed detailing, and collar elevate what would be just a normal short-sleeve T-shirt, and reviewers say they love how the material is higher quality than expected. Or a sleeveless knit sweater vest, which looks like it was borrowed out of Sofia Richie's (aka this generation's queen of quiet luxury) closet. The striped vest will keep you cool and comfortable, and can be dressed up or down depending on your luxurious or relaxed plans for the week. An oversized square ice cube tray perfect for dressing up an afternoon cocktail or just your everyday glass of water. These ice cubes melt more slowly than standard-sized ice cubes and will make you feel like an at-home bartender. You can even get fancy with it by putting some lemon slices or a sprig of mint to add some extra pizzazz to your refreshing drink. A beautiful tennis bracelet, giving a sparkling touch of sophistication for less than $20. This 14-karat gold-plated bracelet looks way more expensive than you paid for and has a durable clasp so you can wear it all day, every day. A pair of metallic kitchen scissors so fancy that they look like they should be cutting a big ribbon for a grand opening of a store. These dishwasher-safe shears are perfect for cutting chicken, red meat, vegetables, and even have additional features like a bottle opener and serrated edge. A pair of Steve Madden H strap sandals, perfect for a summer trip to Europe, or if you just want to switch out the plain thong flip flops for a more sophisticated look. You'll be sure to shock everyone when you tell them they aren't Hermès (gasp!). A pair of statement teardrop earrings for a fashion-forward twist on the classic hoop. Contrary to how chunky they look, reviewers say they are so lightweight and a comfortable staple to their earring collection. Plus, they come with two different backing options (great if you always somehow lose them around the house like me). An electric gooseneck kettle that will make you sing 🎶 here is my handle, here is my spout 🎶 with pride because of how neat this is. It has a sleek design and even includes an automatic shut-off so you can relax while you're enjoying a nice cup o' tea. Or a Smeg-like, but not Smeg-priced, electric kettle featuring a thermometer to get the water to the exact temperature for your extra hot pour-over coffee or your soothing cup of tea. And, this too has the automatic shut-off. A skinny leather belt that is really more for style than function, but oh, does it pull together an outfit. The gold horsebit buckle makes it easy to take on and off, and the adjustable sliding strap in the back is great for switching from a high-waisted to a low-waisted look. A reed diffuser just like the ones you see at the fancy hotel bathrooms that make you say, "Ooh, even the bathrooms smell nice!" Each scent comes with a different set of preserved flowers that makes this as aesthetic as it is functional. A vintage-inspired watch if your Apple Watch just isn't doing it for you anymore. This easily adds an extra ~oomph~ and sophistication to any outfit. And if you still rely on a digital clock to know what time it is, this can just be an elegant accessory. Or a gold Apple-compatible wristband to give you the best of both worlds in terms of style and keeping the cool features of your Apple watch. Plus, it comes with a tool for adjusting the links to your wrist size. It might not be a Rolex, but I gotta say this is pretty snazzy. A Kitsch satin pillowcase for giving you a splendid sleep experience that's good for your hair and skin, and just so silky smooth that you'll want to enjoy this luxury — quietly, in bed, and asleep. A pair of modern wall sconces that will literally light up your life and make your living space très chic. If you don't want to deal with connecting electrical wires, some reviewers have used remote-controlled lightbulbs for convenience. A thermal round brush for those who love a blowout look but don't love spending money on weekly trips to the hair salon. You're able to choose from two heat settings and can easily detach the brush head and store it in the included bag for when you're on the go. A textured MacBook case that fulfills your coastal grandma aesthetic, but also protects your already expensive laptop while making it look more elegant than other plastic covers. A set of velvet ottomans — a bougie spot for your booty or morning brew. When you flip the lid over, it reveals a beautiful wood tabletop! The gold bottom detailing and ribbed texture make these a perfect addition to the art deco-inspired home. A six-piece luggage set equipped with TSA locks, 360-degree wheels, and anti-scratch hardshell material. Even if you're only traveling to a cousin's wedding in Indiana, the coordinated carry-ons, checked bag, toiletry bag, and duffel will make it look like you're ready for a European getaway. A handmade ribbed candlestick so pretty that you probably won't even want to light it. Whether you use it as decor or actually end up lighting it, this candle needs no extra candle holder and gives a soft touch of elegance to your humble abode. A set of amber glass soap dispensers that look like Aesop dispensers... without you spending $43 for hand soap (we're in different tax brackets if you're lucky enough to buy Aesop soap). They even come with waterproof labels! We love a good eco-friendly AND economic-friendly home item. A matching bikini set Meredith Blake would've loved to wear with a big, wide-brimmed hat while tanning by the pool. The white and black detailing gives great contrast, and you can get each piece for less than $35!!! I didn't choose the fancy life. The fancy life chose me. Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftl-oversized-buttondown-tout-61cf470d60ca47a086dc09f385b9e048.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
4 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
Travelers Say This $20 Oversized Button-down Shirt Is the ‘Hardest-working Item' in Their Suitcases
Once you find an oversized button-down shirt you love, never let it go. These classic capsule wardrobe pieces are a total workhorse for travel: They layer well, can be styled up or down, and are lightweight and breezy while still providing coverage when you need it. Versatile enough to wear year-round, they work for practically every climate and travel destination. An oversized button-down shirt can be a lifesaver in spring when chilly weather unsuspectingly arises. Whether you're in the market for your first or tenth button-down, consider expanding your closet with this stylish option that's earned more than 4,000 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers. This Big Dart shirt has been called a perfect crop-top overshirt and swimsuit cover-up by Amazon shoppers, with many reporting that it can be worn with a wide variety of outfits. 'This shirt has got to be the hardest-working item in my suitcase right now,' wrote one reviewer. 'These shirts pack well, wear well, and are easy to dress up or down.' Another shopper wrote that they are 'surprisingly obsessed' with it, adding that it's 'truly fantastic.' Featuring a relaxed, longline silhouette and drop sleeves made for scrunching and rolling up, this shirt is made with a lightweight cotton-polyester blend fabric that is 'lightweight and breathable.' And while cotton-blend fabrics are typically prone to wrinkling—requiring you to use a portable steamer once you've unpacked your suitcase—reviewers share that this shirt doesn't wrinkle as easily as other button-down shirts. This Big Dart shirt comes in sixteen different colors, including neutral options like white, black, and cream, as well as vibrant springtime shades, including lilac and yellow. Prices start as low as $10 for certain sizes and color combinations and cap off at $27, making this the budget-friendly staple of the season. Looking for more oversized button-down shirts for spring? Ahead are five more versatile options to add to your rotation, all $31 or less. At the time of publishing, the price started at $10. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Buzz Feed
11 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
32 Things To Help You Make The Most Out Of Your Yard
A pack of solar-powered garden lights to turn your yard into a wind-powered light show. They charge during the day and glow at night, no plugs or switches required. An outdoor bug zapper so you won't spend mosquito season getting eaten alive. It kicks in the second you plug it in and covers up to half an acre without sprays, smells, or concerned inquiries from your landlord. Trust me, your ankles will thank you. Or a Thermacell mosquito repellent if you want a peaceful backyard hang without the high-drama zapping soundtrack. This tiny but mighty device will create a 20-foot no-bug zone without a whiff of citronella or a single sticky spray. It's also rechargeable and cordless. A colorful three-piece patio set for when you're dealing with limited space but want a cozy place to enjoy your morning cup of joe or meal al fresco. The bright color can create a nice focal point in an otherwise drab area of your outdoor space. Some bamboo wind chimes to bring some zen vibes to your outdoor space. When it moves, the bamboo produces deep, soothing tones that'll blend nicely with nature's soundtrack. No batteries, no wires, just peaceful background music you didn't have to find via a playlist. Promising review: "Was actually a little bigger than I expected to be for the price. Beautiful and well worth the money. Sounds beautiful." —Ashleigh Yates Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in two sizes). Or a set of solar wind chimes for bringing a little glow and gentle sound to your outdoor space after dark. They charge during the day, then kick on automatically at night with soft, color-changing light. Promising review: "Ok so I absolutely LOVE this! So much so, I have bought two more for gifts, lol. They shine wonderful amounts of light. The whole unit is lightweight. Hangs well and blows nicely in the wind. I could watch it for hours... and have. I see more orders in my future." —Fairy girl Get it from Amazon for $13.29+ (available in 16 shapes). A weed-puller tool to easily remove weeds from your garden or lawn. It's the bestselling weeding tool on Amazon, and for good reason! The same family-owned small business has been making these since 1913, and 46,000+ reviewers have given the product 5 stars. A Western-inspired patio rug that looks like something you'd score at a desert flea market, but it's waterproof, reversible, and made from recycled plastic. The geometric pattern and swoon-worthy colors feel totally unexpected for an outdoor rug, and if it gets dirty, just hose it down and let it dry in the sun like the showoff it is. Promising review: "This is the third one of these rugs I have bought over the last 10 years. Not because they wear out, but because I am adding to the stock. I use them on a covered screen porch, and they look so nice and are so durable that they are in place even in the winter." —Ms Lin SewaneeGet it from Amazon for $45.74+ (available in 28 colors and 15 sizes). A wicker bench with a cushion to turn any corner of your yard into a sit-and-stay-a-while spot. The weather-resistant frame and cushion will handle summer storms without a fuss, and its 700-pound capacity means it'll hold you, your favorite person, and maybe even a tray of lemonade with ease. Promising review: "Holds over 600 pounds with ease, much nicer than the price point suggests. It's deep enough from front to back to sit comfortably. The cushion is comfortable, and the slight give of the weaving underneath the cushion makes a very soft, supportive seat. I am very, very impressed with the quality of this bench, especially considering that similar benches cost two to three times as much. I kind of expected this bench to have cut corners, and was very pleased to find that the quality is equal to much more expensive benches. I highly recommend this product!" —B BaGet it from Amazon for $89.99+ (available in 14 color combos). An artificial ivy privacy screen that'll make your fence, balcony, or unsightly wall look like it belongs in a secret garden instead of a parking lot. Using this is an easy way to add a little greenery and have a lot of coverage, all without having to plant a single thing. Promising review: "This is a great product for any outdoor space. It provides extra privacy whilst adding beauty to my balcony. The leaves were all intact and it was easy to install with the zip ties that came in the box. The fence has been stable, never falling down nor loosen up its grip. During rain, I've never experienced the leaves coming off/apart. If you're looking to spice up your outdoor area with faux greenery, this product is a great quality fence and highly recommend!" —C.C. Get it from Amazon for $69.99. A roll of natural reed fencing to provide your outdoor space with some much-needed privacy without installing something permanent. Perfect for screening off your patio, balcony, or that spot where your neighbor's window looks directly onto your yard. Promising review: "I am very happy with this reed fencing. The lovely brown color and tight weave with the string is so much better than ones I've had in the past that were woven with wire, which look shabby and horrible. These are a wonderful quality for the price to make putting up large sections of fencing more affordable. They are not completely private, as people have mentioned, but that's not what I wanted. I wanted to be able to see through a little bit, but they work great to give some sense of separation and privacy." —Lauren it from Amazon for $47.99+ (available in five sizes and two colors). A hanging hammock chair, because sometimes you just need a main character moment and this is the chair that'll give it to you. A vertical planter so you can grow herbs, strawberries, or flowers without giving up your whole patio. Just stack the five tiers, fill with soil, and plant up to 20 things in one tidy, compact tower. Some waterproof and shatterproof solar-powered outdoor string lights for turning your backyard into a whimsical nighttime oasis. Perfect for draping over trees, winding around railings, or highlighting the edges of your outdoor living space, they create an intimate setting that's both magical and inviting. Brightech is a small business in Los Angeles that sells indoor and outdoor lighting for the review: "I have had these lights up since the end of September 2022. They lit up right out of the box. They have been through a snowstorm, ice storm, and massive rain and are still perfect. They are pretty easy to hang. They are shatterproof, which I love. —D KellyGet it from Brightech on Amazon for $34.99+ (available in warm or soft light). A narrow wicker chair to give you all the cozy, cocoon-like vibes of an egg chair — without eating up half your patio. It's just as comfy and stylish as the oversized versions, but way better at fitting into tight spots. Promising review: "Loved this compact version of an egg chair. It it gorgeous and doesn't take up too much space on the patio. It was very easy to put together and the instructions were clear and simple to read. This chair is very sturdy and doesn't seem like it will unravel or break. The cushions are very plush and the covers unzip and can easily be cleaned in a washing machine. Overall, this purchase has been so worth it." —Evelyn Ndidi Get it from Amazon for $141.95+ (available in three styles). A pair of outdoor Bluetooth speakers that'll double as flickering torch lanterns, because music is great, but music with ambiance is even better. They're waterproof (bring on those summer showers), sync together for surround sound, and given serious "cozy evening under the string lights" energy. Promising review: "I ordered waterproof speakers so I could sit outside, and I'm so glad I found these. They're perfect for what I needed because they are similar to tiki torch lights that are already planted. They give off a nice ambiance when sitting out back, and the sound is loud but not too loud to disturb neighbors. Bluetooth connection is easy. So far, so good, and I'm satisfied with my purchase." —applefirGet it from Amazon for $74.99. A foldable play set if you want a literal playground in your backyard. It has a slide, climbing wall, swing, monkey bars, rope wall climbing net, and a wooden ladder. Bonus: it works indoors or outside, so when the cold weather hits you can move it inside. Promising review: "Bought this for my 2-year-old's birthday. It was a HIT at her party. She uses every section regularly. We set it up outside for the summer and just brought it in for the fall! It can be used by several kids at once. As a buy-nothing queen, I was hesitant about the price but am satisfied." —Jonathan D Get it from Amazon for $499+ (available in two sizes). A colorful tree swing for you and the tiny tots in your life to create Hallmark movie–level memories. It's waterproof AND has a weight capacity of 900 pounds, so the whole gang can comfortably and safely use it together. Promising review: "We've had this swing hanging in our tree out back for two years now. Our kids, and their friends, LOVE it. I love that it's large enough to accommodate a number of kids/people, and that it's held up so well over time. Would totally recommend." —KrystalGet it from Amazon for $45.96. A pair of breathable bamboo gloves that'll make you feel like a gardening pro. They're breathable, flexible, and grippy enough to keep a solid hold on your tools (or that stubborn weed that refuses to budge). Plus, they're made from bamboo, so your hands stay cool and comfy while you work your backyard magic. A pack of garden lights to beautifully light up your outdoor space when nighttime hits. Use these for practical purposes like illuminating a walkway, or just spread them throughout the garden to create a whimsical environment that looks like something out of a Tolkien novel. They're solar-powered and automatically turn on at night!Promising review: "I love the solar flowers. Their colors are vibrant, rotating, and an asset to my patio. People stop by to comment on their nighttime beauty!" —Ruth LovelyGet a pack of four from Amazon for $25.99. A wicker patio set that turns your space into a cozy little nook where you can sip your coffee and read an important piece of just zone out while doomscrolling TikTok. Promising review: "I love this loveseat ... when my cat is not hoarding it 😩 I spend so much time sitting longways on it, reading books. It's lightweight but sturdy — I weigh over 200 pounds and feel supported while stretched out on it. It was also super easy to assemble. I normally hire someone to assemble anything that comes in pieces, but I was able to tackle this alone in about 45 minutes." —Brittney-Elizabeth Williams Get it from Amazon for $93.70+ (available in four colors and 1-, 3-, or 5-piece sets). A crack weeder tool to make your pathways, driveways, and patios like new again. The uniquely shaped head allows the tool to fit into tight cracks and grab weeds by the roots for easy removal. A chic cooler that doubles as a side table to keep your drinks cool. Now you can kick back and relax instead of having to run into the house every time you want to crack open a cold one. Promising review: "This thing is great and perfect to start off the spring/summer. We dumped a giant bag of ice in there and kept our drinks cold all afternoon. The swivel top is convenient and fun. Love that it's a table and an aesthetically pleasing cooler." —ShanaGet it from Amazon for $119.99 (available in four colors). A waterproof outdoor curtain to either partition off space in your outdoor space or provide you with some privacy, like if your balcony looks directly onto someone else's balcony or something unsightly. A gas firepit table so you can keep when the nights start to get chilly. It comes with a glass lid, so when the fire's not in use it can be used as a table. Promising review: "My favorite purchase for our deck. I LOVE this fire table. Good size, great value compared to what is out there. Packaged nicely. My husband put it together alone in 30–45 minutes with no frustration and easy-to-follow directions. Puts out a decent amount of heat. Enough rocks to adequately cover. Just add your propane tank. I love that it has a lid as well. You will find sturdier fire tables, but not at this price. Excellent value." —BelliumGet it from Amazon for $199.99+ (available in two sizes and four styles). A 21-inch Ryobi self-propelling lawnmower because yard work is way more tolerable when your mower doesn't sound like a helicopter. This one's battery-powered (read: quiet), and the charge lasts long enough — I did both my front and back lawn with juice left over. It's a very worthy investment if you want to maintain a pristine lawn all year long without a lot of effort on your part (self-propelling really is awesome). My house has a lot of lawn: over 3,000 square feet. When we first moved in, I bought a cheap battery-powered mower that could barely handle either the front or the back yard on a single charge. Not ideal. This Ryobi mower is the total opposite. I can mow both the front and back with charge to spare. A "command center" lets you activate turbo mode and lights, and adjust the self-propel speed right from the handle (great for slowing down when you're trying to mow a corner). Turbo mode gives you an extra boost for tough patches, and it comes with a grass catcher bag, though I always keep mine on mulch mode because it's better for the lawn. The handle folds down for easy storage. Bonus: the 40V battery works with over 85 other Ryobi tools, which I love because it means I can expand my collection without collecting a bunch of different batteries. Promising review: "I have about 1,500 sq. ft. yard and I have mowed it four times and the battery is at 50%. It does great on a 25% incline slope. It has so much power that I had to lower it to 50%. Best lawnmower I have ever owned. Highly recommend." —RchoHomeOwner Get it from The Home Depot for $549. A quilted hammock with a detachable pillow so you can take a nap under your favorite tree. Each hammock can hold up to 450 pounds, so grab a loved one and get to snuggling. You can get the stand here!What's included: One pillow, two chains, and two S-shaped hooks. Promising review: "There is nothing more comfortable than being cradled and rocked in a hammock that is comfortable with its padded quilted canvas, built-in pillow, and the size built for two. The craftsmanship and anchors give you a secure feeling." — it from Amazon for $67.40+ (available in seven colors). A fully insulated, aesthetically pleasing cooler that'll be the hit of any backyard bbq you host. With a 45-quart capacity, it can hold all your favorite bevvies — because no one likes running inside for refills. It's got a built-in bottle opener, a drainage spout for easy cleanup, and a lid you can pop open for quick grabs or shut tight to keep things frosty. A portable, Bluetooth-enabled outdoor speaker with all the bells and whistles you could possibly ever need. Can it play music nonstop for 24 hours on a single charge? Totes. Is it waterproof? Yes. Floatable? Uh-huh. Does it have a racetrack subwoofer with a max output of 80W? Heck yeah, it does! Promising review: "I cannot understand how something this size can possibly produce such amazing, loud, clear sound and bass. It is a truly incredible device that I intend to use daily because it works well outside, too. Do not be deceived by the affordable price. It is significantly better than a $400 JBL. The battery life is great, too. If I want it loud, half the volume is all you need. If I want to blast my neighbors, 80%. I haven't needed to push it further. The bass-up function is awesome. You're gonna love this thing." —Rob and PiperGet it from Amazon for $89.99+ (available in three colors). A canopy swing that'll rock and swing *and* provide you with shade on extra sunny days. It's zero gravity, so you'll feel weightless when you're all tucked in. A giant four-in-a-row game for keeping you and your guests entertained for hours. It's all-weather, designed to be quiet, and has a carrying case for storing when not in use. Champion Sports is a family-owned and operated small business that's been operating out of New Jersey since 1961. Promising review: "I bought this for the kids to play during cookouts. We have corn hole and other games as well, and I find myself playing this as much, if not more, than corn hole. Great quality, and it comes with a carrying bag to put away for easy storage and clean up." —Alan Rich Get it from Amazon for $199.99+ (available in two sizes). And a set of giant wooden dice with a matching bucket to make your backyard feel like summer camp, minus the bug bites. You get six jumbo dice, a wooden bucket, and scorecards for games like Yardzee and Farkle — basically everything you need to entertain friends, kids, or very competitive grandparents.
