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Forbes
6 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
Jupiter Shampoo And Conditioner: A Dandruff Treatment I Can't Live Without
I've suffered from dry scalp intermittently since college, although early on it was restricted to the winter months. Over the last ten years, though, I've struggled with itchy scalp and dandruff year-round. I've tried various medicinal dandruff shampoos, changing my hair washing habits and I've even seen dermatologists for topical treatments. But it wasn't until I tried Jupiter's Balancing Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner that I finally had dry scalp and dandruff relief. Jupiter's Balancing Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner transformed my scalp from itchy and flaky to ... More healthy and clear. Molly Calhoun For Forbes Jupiter was founded in 2000, but I didn't learn about it until 2023 during a desperate internet search. I was discouraged by big-name brands and their stinky, ineffective formulas, and I was laser focused on protecting my financial—and emotional—investment in my color-treated hair. After all, what's the good in having no dandruff if you have faded, scraggly strands? I was looking for a modern, sexier dandruff shampoo because, let's be honest, if I'm succumbing to my vanity I'm going all in. Within just a couple of days of using Jupiter's Balancing Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner, the itching on my head stopped, I had meaningfully less dandruff and still had bouncy, shiny hair. Jupiter Jupiter Balancing Shampoo And Nourishing Conditioner Those without dandruff don't fully understand the embarrassment that comes with it. I used to live in fear of accidentally scratching my head and giving away my secret. Dark clothes became a total liability since they put dry flakes on display for anyone standing behind me in a line. But using this shampoo and conditioner set took away that self-consciousness. It's made with 1% zinc pyrithione to combat fungal infections that cause dandruff and promote scalp health, and it has gentle surfactants and hydrating plant extracts and oils that work to condition the scalp. Glycolic acid exfoliates, while squalane and sugar kelp extract work to condition and moisturize to prevent flakes and itching. I work out five or so days a week, and I found that this formula effectively removes excess oil and sweat after runs or trips to the gym. It's free of all the things you don't want (sulfates, parabens, phthalates), and it's made with 100% natural fragrance, so it doesn't have a strong medicinal smell or a cloying synthetic scent that makes you nauseous throughout your day. It's minty with vague botanical undertones, but the scent is minimal when hair dries, so it doesn't compete with other fragrances. Jupiter's Balancing Shampoo has a thick consistency and a light, minty scent. Molly Calhoun For Forbes Admittedly, I spend a lot of money at the salon: I have dark hair that I color monthly, and I get a keratin treatment once or twice a year to smooth frizz. Most other dandruff shampoos aren't color-safe, so I wouldn't use them often for fear that they'd strip color from my hair. (Not shockingly, my dandruff would persist as a result.) Jupiter's shampoo and conditioner don't compromise my color so I can use them daily if I want to. The shampoo has a thick consistency—a little goes a long way—so when shampooing I add a lot of water to work it into a good lather. I let it sit on my scalp two to three minutes before rinsing to reap the benefits. I currently use the Balancing Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner three to four times per week because I've found that's the frequency I need to keep dandruff at bay. While I've always had incredibly thick hair that I take pride in, I've noticed the first signs of thinning, and I think my scalp issues are largely to blame. But one additional—and surprising—benefit of this shampoo is that I've noticed less shedding when using it. This formula has also been proven to reduce hair breakage by more than 75 percent. While it may seem unimportant to some, I liked that the Jupiter shampoo and conditioner bottles ... More didn't slip out of my hands easily in the shower, and it was easy to squeeze out the product. Molly Calhoun For Forbes I've found that for the most part, when a conditioner comes with a shampoo as a set I'm typically underwhelmed by its effectiveness. Jupiter's formula is made with probiotics to normalize the scalp, calming oatmeal, vitamin E, safflower and argan oils to nourish, and pataua oil, which is known for bond-strengthening properties. Each bottle contains 14 ounces, so you get plenty of product. Molly Calhoun For Forbes When I first squeezed this formula out of the bottle, I was skeptical—its consistency wasn't as thick as some other formulas I love, although it had a very nice, subtle vanilla scent. I usually apply conditioner only from my ponytail to my ends, but the instructions said to apply it on hair and massage it onto my scalp. I reluctantly did so and let it absorb for about a minute before rinsing thoroughly. I was pleasantly surprised that it made my hair silky without weighing it down, and it completely eliminates any itchy feeling from my scalp. I'm able to execute a glossy, bouncy blowout that doesn't get prematurely greasy or flat, either.
Forbes
03-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
This Summer Bag Is All I Need For The Beach, Pool Or Vacation
A great beach or vacation bag should check a lot of boxes. It needs to be durable, accommodate everything from towels to book, and in a perfect world be stylish, too. I've had plenty of summer bags, including rugged canvas styles and waterproof carryalls, but Hat Attack's Original Straw Traveler Bag is consistently the one I reach for every time I'm headed poolside or to the lake or ocean. Hat Attack's The Original Straw Traveler Bag is my summer go-to for the beach and pool because it's ... More functional and you can style it with everything from summer dresses to beach cover-ups. Molly Calhoun For Forbes Vetted Hat Attack may be best known for its versatile headwear, from raffia crochet cowboy hats to packable crusher styles. But its bag selection features wearable, versatile and affordable options. There are mini styles, crossbody bags, clutches and totes, often in natural, summer-appropriate, eco-friendly fabrics like jute and raffia. The brand's Original Straw Traveler Bag is a stylish complement to my swimsuits and coverups, and it's functional, too. Hat Attack New York Hat Attack The Original Straw Traveler Bag The coolest feature of the Hat Attack The Original Straw Traveler Bag is that it has a dedicated spot on the exterior for my sun hat. It securely holds my favorite Helen Kaminski hat so I don't have to carry it when not wearing it and it keeps my hat from getting squished inside the bag. It's important to note, though, that this bag only fits regular-sized sun hats or flexible styles that have brims that can be tucked easily under the straps. It will not fit a large-brimmed sun hat like something you'd use for full sun coverage while gardening. It's more suitable for smaller sun hat styles, fedoras and straw cowboy hats. I love that this summer bag has a dedicated section with straps for my sun hat, which means it ... More doesn't get crushed and I don't have to carry it or wear it at all times. Molly Calhoun For Forbes Vetted The bag's bendable raffia straw construction means it can flex to give space to bulky items. I've pushed it to the limits and have stuffed it with thick beach towels, pareos, books, magazines, sunscreens and my snacks. It has a rigid, lightweight insert at the base that gives it just enough structure so it doesn't stretch out at the bottom when filled and hang too low. While it's not waterproof, the raffia is naturally water-resistant, so it can withstand limited splashes, and you can easily shake the sand out of this bag after an afternoon at the beach. Hat Attack's Original Straw Traveler bag has room for snacks, sunscreen, towels and a great beach ... More read. Molly Calhoun For Forbes Vetted This lightweight summer bag weighs just two pounds and flattens completely, making it easy to pack at the base of my suitcase under my clothes. In the past two years, I've taken it to the Caribbean, South America and the Hamptons. I've toted it to the beach, on shopping trips and to lunches in town, and because of its neutral color, it goes with basically everything. (It also comes in navy stripe and toast stripe if you're looking for more visual detailing.)
Forbes
24-06-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Nood The Flasher 2.0 Review: Effective Laser Hair Removal With Consistent Use
I first began shaving my legs in middle school, and I've been plagued by a lifelong battle with hair removal ever since. While I have enviably thick hair on my head, the corresponding coarse hair on my legs has always seemed profoundly unfair. I've undergone professional laser hair removal treatments, but over time that requires maintenance. So I tried out Nood's The Flasher 2.0, an IPL hair removal device, which targets the pigment in your hair follicles, damages the roots and inhibits hair regrowth. It promises to permanently remove hair in as little as eight weeks. While I didn't see extreme changes in that time period, I noticed less hair and slower regrowth. During testing, I found the Nood Flasher 2.0 to be easy to use, and it permanently removed hair with ... More committed, regular use. Molly Calhoun For Forbes Vetted Professional, in-office hair removal treatments are typically done in a series of three to six sessions and cost $200 to $900 per session. At $199, Nood's The Flasher 2.0 is well priced for a beauty device, and it requires 10-minute treatments twice per week—from the comfort and privacy of home. After using it for eight weeks, I have found this comfortable to use and I can see noticeable hair reduction, but it has required patience. I'm optimistic, though, that this will be a great device for maintenance over the long term. If you're looking to remove hair from your legs, underarms or bikini line, Nood's The Flasher 2.0 is a worthwhile, cost-effective pick. Nood Nood The Flasher 2.0 Flashes: 600,000 | Laser type: IPL | Intensity levels: 7 | FDA-cleared: Yes Best for: Treatment in as little as 10 minutes Those with dark blond, brown or black hair and fair to light skin tones Being effective on coarse hair Skip if: You want immediate gratification—it can take 8 weeks to see results You have light hair and light skin tone or brown or black hair and dark skin tone How The Nood Flasher 2.0 Works Handheld Device That's Easy To Use The Nood Flasher 2.0 is an ergonomically designed device with a power cord that must be plugged in during use. The cord is more than eight feet long to allow for maximum reach. Turning on the device is simple—you hold the side button to power it on and press it to toggle to the desired intensity level. Depending on the size of the area you're addressing, treatment can take anywhere from about ten minutes to fifteen minutes. The company recommends using it two times per week for eight weeks, with ongoing maintenance as needed. IPL—or Intense Pulsed Light—hair removal isn't effective on all skin and hair combinations, and it requires contrast between the melanin in the skin and melanin in the hair to work well. The best candidates for the Nood Flasher 2.0 have dark blond, brown or black hair along with a fair, light, medium or medium-dark skin tone—types I through IV with the Fitzpatrick Skin Score. To prevent adverse reactions or side effects—which many include skin rash, itchy skin, skin discoloration, burns, scarring, migraines and spotty vision—Nood recommends doing an approximately week-long skin safety test before use. Adjustable Intensity Levels And Modes The Nood Flasher 2.0 has an easy-to-read-LED screen that indicates the treatment level (from 1 to 7) and the number of flashes remaining on the device. (It starts at 600,000 and counts down.) The flash window is 1.25 inches long by 0.4 inches wide, which is an effective size for quickly covering areas like the underarms or bikini line, while it takes a bit longer to larger areas like the legs. You can choose to have the device on continuous glide mode, which means it emits light pulses automatically as you move it across the skin, or manual mode, which means it will flash when you press the flash button. The flash window on Nood's The Flasher 2.0 is small enough to maneuver easily, but large enough to ... More cover skin surface area relatively quickly. Molly Calhoun For Forbes When you power the Nood Flasher 2.0 on, it hums and sounds like a small fan. For effective treatment, the flash window should be lightly and evenly pressed to the skin at a 90-degree angle. The brand recommends flashing over an entire treatment area two times per session, paying careful attention to move the device at even intervals across the skin so you don't miss a spot and end up with remaining patches of hair. It's advised not to press the device too hard against the skin to prevent burns. FDA-Cleared With Real User Results The Nood Flasher 2.0 is FDA-cleared as a Class II medical device, which means that it has undergone third party testing to ensure it is safe and effective for permanent hair reduction. More than 35,000 users have reviewed the device on the brand's website for an average 4.6 out of 5 rating. It has been clinically proven to show a 92% reduction in hair regrowth. Many users have posted favorable before and after images, with some saying they see a reduction in hair growth in as little as two weeks. Nood also sells a serum for $31 that promises to slow hair regrowth and reduce ingrown hairs, irritation and itchiness. If you don't see results in 60 days, you can get your money back. How I Tested The Nood Flasher 2.0 To begin testing the Nood Flasher 2.0, I plugged it in and turned it on—there's no need to charge the device because it must be plugged in during use. I first completed the skin safety test recommended by the brand, which took about a week, although I was fairly confident I'd tolerate IPL hair removal well since I've previously done laser hair removal on my legs and underarms at my dermatologist's office more than a decade ago. I shaved the day before using the device because I find that my skin is sometimes irritated right after shaving. The device is lightweight—at 8.7 ounces—and comfortable to hold in hand with its glossy, rounded edges and ergonomic shape. When I first began flashing my skin with the laser, it was quite bright, and a little unnerving how much it bothered my eyes. The company says that protective eyewear is not required because the device comes with a sensor that prevents it from flashing unless the entire window is pressed against your skin. But even doing that, I found the flash to be jarring, so I would wear dark sunglasses and close my eyes during treatments. It would be nice if they provided safety goggles so I wasn't squeezing my eyes shut while trying to blindly flash the correct area. The Nood Flasher 2.0 must be plugged in during use, but it has a long cord for easy maneuverability ... More as well as an easy-to-read LED screen. Molly Calhoun For Forbes I was able to use the Nood Flasher 2.0 at level 6 or 7 without any discomfort. Overall, this IPL device was much less painful than the in-office hair removal treatments I've previously experienced. However, this could be because I now have far less body hair. In my experience you feel more discomfort the more hair you have and the more the laser is picking up the melanin in the hair. During treatment, I'd feel a slight warmth and occasional tingle or light rubber-band-snap feeling when the device flashed on my skin. It was not unpleasant or off-putting, and the overall experience was comfortable. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the pain of a bikini wax, I'd say this was between a 1 and 3 depending on the area. It was easy to maneuver the Nood Flasher 2.0, but I'd have to pay special attention to keep the flash window pressed evenly against the skin for optimal treatment in bony or tricky areas—like near my ankles or in my groin area—without pressing it into my skin and potentially burning myself. The cord, while long to allow for maneuverability, does not swivel, which would be an improvement when negotiating harder-to-reach areas. The flash window, although larger than on some comparable devices, took some time to treat bigger areas like my legs more quickly, although the continuous glide mode feature expedited the process. I found that I would experience some minor redness after use, but that would go away after 30 minutes. Is The Nood Flasher 2.0 Worth It? Yes, but only if you fit the criteria for the device (in general, you have lighter skin tone and darker hair color, and there is contrast between your hair color and skin color), and you are willing to put in the time and effort. I have fair skin (Type II on the Fitzpatrick scale) and dark brown hair, so I am an ideal candidate for laser hair removal. With consistent, twice a week use over eight weeks, I noticed a thinning in the remaining stubborn hair patches on my legs, and the Nood Flasher 2.0 completely removed the few remaining hairs in my underarms. I previously began laser hair removal on my bikini line at the dermatologist's office but never finished the treatment sessions, so I plan to continue to use this device to finish the process. As beauty devices go, this one is inexpensive at $199, especially compared to long-term waxing costs or in-office laser hair removal treatments which can run into the thousands of dollars. My Expertise I'm a magazine writer and editor who has spent 20 years covering lifestyle topics, including style, health, entertainment and beauty. I've written about the best microcurrent devices, the best mineral sunscreens and the best retinol creams, amongst many other stories. I have been dealing with hair removal since my early teens. I've shaved with every kind of razor, done in-office and at-home waxing, tried electrolysis and hair threading, used hair removal creams and invested in in-grown hair solutions. Due to my fair skin and dark hair, I've found laser hair removal to be extremely effective, and truly life-changing, for me, but over time I've wanted a device to help me with touch-ups. I've used the Nood Flasher 2.0 for more than two months, and I plan to continue to use it for maintenance as needed. This assignment was assigned and edited by deputy editor Jane Sung , who oversees the beauty and grooming vertical at Forbes Vetted. She's covered beauty and lifestyle topics for over two decades and has produced numerous tested reviews and hair removal stories like the best laser hair removal devices . Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Does The Nood Flasher 2.0 Work For Everyone? No, unfortunately it does not. In general, IPL treatment is not recommended for people with very dark skin, or those with light blonde, red or grey hair. Is Laser Hair Treatment Painful? This really depends on your pain tolerance. When you do the skin safety test, that will determine the highest treatment level you can achieve without discomfort. I'd describe the pain from a 1 to 3 on a scale to 10, with 10 being the worst. The brand describes the sensation during flashing as a 'slight tingle,' although I'd describe it more like a zing or a rubber band being lightly snapped against the skin. After lots of experience with laser hair removal, there are definitely factors that influence the level of discomfort, in my opinion. First, areas with thicker hair tend to be more painful. Also, I've found that bony areas around the ankles typically hurt more, as do sensitive areas like the bikini line. Some people say that laser can hurt more before you get your period, but I have not found that to be the case for me. Does The Nood Flasher 2.0 Work Permanently? This device can permanently remove hair, but it's important to note that laser hair removal also requires touch ups over time. The Nood Flasher 2.0 only targets hair follicles in the anagen growth phase—meaning, the period when the follicle is actively growing—and it's possible that hairs not in the anagen phase will still grow. According to the brand, you should see up to 80% hair removal after eight weeks of treatment. Nood advises maintenance treatments every one to two months as necessary.
Forbes
02-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
The 8 Best Beach Bags For Moms To Carry Sand Toys, Towels And More
Going to the beach with kids is a whole new experience, requiring more than just a small tote to carry the endless essentials—snacks, sun hats, sunscreen, diapers, wipes, towels and more—making a practical beach bag a must. The best beach bags for moms are versatile, roomy and easy to clean. As a Southern California local who goes to the beach and pool regularly with my three kids, I'm constantly testing out different bags to find ones that stand out from the crowd, and my best overall pick, the Bogg Bag Original, hits all the marks. The best beach bags for moms easily house all the beach day essentials. 'Since going to the beach with littles in tow can be intense, I usually prioritize practicality,'says Shana Draugelis, founder and CEO of The Mom Edit and mom of two. Additionally, since there are dozens of beach bags to choose from, she says, 'It's got to be cute enough that I'm actually excited to carry it—even off the beach.' We've curated the best beach bags for moms to tow everything—and then some—this summer. Amazon Dimensions: 19 x 9 x 14 inches | Weight: 5 pounds This Crocs-like bag that went a viral a few years ago is still just as easy-to-clean, durable and spacious as it was then, making it a functional and versatile pick to tote to the beach, pool or kid's sporting event. The carry straps are comfy to use even when filled to the brim. The treaded flat bottom means it'll stay upright even in sand, and the signature holes means you won't tote home cups of sand in the bottom of your bag. Cleaning it is as easy as hosing it down or wiping it clean. It's available in over 70 fun colors and patterns, and there are a ton of accessory options to make organizing it even easier from dividers to drink holders, insulated cooler bags and phone holders to protect your tech from the salt and sand, while the wide opening makes quickly finding things inside easier. 'This is a great option for the beach or pool, because you can easily hose off sand or sunscreen. It's incredibly roomy so you can fit lots of beach toys and extra towels, and it has a sturdy bottom,' says Forbes Vetted fashion and beauty writer and mom of two Molly Calhoun, who borrowed a friend's Bogg Original for a beach trip. She did note, however, that due to the durable EVA material it's made of, it's slightly heavier (5 pounds) than some other beach totes. Just beware, there are a ton of knock-offs out there. Parents who love customizing their bag can add on Bogg Bits (much like Jibbitz for Crocs), to add on to the exterior for extra flair. STATE Bags Dimensions: 12.2 x 22 (top); 16.5 x 8 inches (bottom) | Weight: 3.75 poundsYes, it's possible for a bag stuffed with pool and sand toys to still look gorgeous and adult. The minimalist State Wellington Cabana Tote comes in a variety of chic colors and patterns (including a fun, summery knit version) yet still has all the utilitarian elements parents need. Made of waterproof materials, the unique shape of the Wellington Cabana Tote (it's wider on top than the bottom) makes it easy to stuff in—and access—a ton of things. The generous size means you can easily toss in a towel or two, water toys, snacks, water bottles and then some. Most of the color options are also see-through, making it easy to see what's where when you need to grab that one diving stick or snack for your child. While it doesn't have any zipper pockets inside, it does come with a detachable pouch to zip your valuables into. The thick handles are padded nicely on top so you can comfortably carry the bag on your shoulder or in your hand. Amazon Dimensions: 19 x 14.5 inches (not expanded); 19 x 17.5 (expanded)| Weight: Not listed Whether you're flying or driving to a beach vacation, chances are your suitcases are already stuffed and trying to squeeze in a beach bag on top of everything can just be one thing too many. That's exactly why I love these ultra-light and easily packable Aloha bags. I take mine on every family trip we take. They fold up small enough to toss in my purse or backpack and hardly weigh anything. A zippered top keeps things from falling out at the beach (and also expands the bag), and I've found the wide straps comfortable to carry on my shoulder. Two interior zippered pockets are ideal for stashing phones, hand sanitizer and anything else you want to protect from sand and water, while an exterior pocket provides additional storage for keys or a Kindle. The 'splash-proof' material of the bag means I don't worry about spills or water sloshing on it. Cleaning it is also a breeze—simply wipe it down with a baby wipe or damp cloth or toss it in the washing machine on the delicate cycle. They come in a ton of fun colors and patterns, whether you want to go minimalist or vacay-ready with a lively tropical print. You could also use it as your carry-on bag so there's one less thing to pack. Target Dimensions: 16.6 x 23.6 x 9.1 inches | Weight: Not listed When you just want an easy, lightweight and waterproof bag that you can toss everything into real quick, it's hard to beat the super affordable Shade & Shore Mesh Cargo Tote bag. I've owned this one for three years now, and it's accompanied me and my three kids on many trips to the pool and beach. Since it's mesh, I don't worry about leaving a stray wet towel in there, and the roomy exterior pockets are convenient for stashing sunscreen, water bottles or anything else I want to quickly access without having to dig through the bag. I've definitely gotten my $15 worth out of it. 'Mesh beach bags are so underrated—they look surprisingly fashionable, are lightweight, and useful,' says Draugelis who calls this Target tote 'ridiculously cute.' This one is also super roomy allowing me to squish in floaties, goggles, towels, extra clothes and then some. To clean it, you simply shake out the sand (or crumbs) and rinse it off. Yeti Dimensions: 18.1 x 9.8 x 15.2 inches| Weight: 3.1 pounds The Yeti Camino 35 Carryall tote is a durable and waterproof bag that'll likely last you for years. Whether you're taking it to the beach, on a boat or a kids sporting event, you can rest assured knowing no liquids will seeping in from the bottom or sides. A thick waterproof puncture-resistant shell and hefty rubber bottom makes it feel substantial, even though it only weighs a little over 3 pounds. It's so waterproof, the brand says you can even use it to carry water or use as a makeshift camp dishwashing vessel if you needed to. This is a super spacious structured bag—the kind where you know you could you toss in everything but the kitchen sink and it could still support it (it's been tested to carry up to 1,500 pounds, according to Yeti.) There are two fairly large zippered pockets inside and two dividers that pop out of each end to help organize all your gear. You can carry it multiple ways: with the handles on your shoulder or picking it up with the CrossBar handles. Just note this isn't a cooler bag and doesn't have a zip top. It's available in 11 muted and vibrant colorways. The Camino 35 comes with a three-year warranty—and is on sale in select colors right now. Amazon Dimensions: 24 x 19 x 12 inches| Weight: 1.8 pounds Easily the largest bag on our list, the Scout Zip-Top Original Tote is both incredibly spacious and extremely lightweight. After you've stuffed all your towels, toys, kickboards, books and then some in here, you can easily shut it using the u-shaped zip top, instead of feeling like you have to squeeze it together to get the zipper to catch all the way though. There's an interior zippered pocket for stashing your phone, keys and other must-haves you don't want to have to dig through for. The bag itself carries up to 75 pounds and has a burst-proof bottom. 'I dislike carrying too many bags on trips to the lake or beach,' says Margaret Badore, the Forbes Vetted baby and kids gear editor. 'This giant bag from Scout is ideal for avoiding that situation, and easily fit our infant life jacket, towels, snacks, clothes, sunscreen and more.' It folds flat for convenient storage and can be easily hosed off and cleaned. Just note the dimensions, because it is rather large and may be cumbersome for more petite parents to carry. Forbes Vetted deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala uses the smaller but still quite large Scout Original Deano bag (19 x 15 x 10 inches) to take her three kids at the beach and at swim class. 'I love that the structured sides stay up, so I can always find what I need, and the open top makes it easier to pack, because I can always squeeze one more thing in. It's easy to wipe clean or shake the sand out of it, too,' she says. She does note that she wishes 'it had an additional internal pocket for stowing a few small things like swim goggles." Nordstrom Rack Dimensions: 16 x 20 x 8 inches | Weight: Not listed The Business & Pleasure Cooler Tote Bag doubles as an insulated cooler to keep your drinks, milk or snacks cold while also being roomy enough to stash additional beach or pool gear. It's not as bulky as other insulated bags I've owned in the past and holds about 7 gallons. Pair it with their slim ice packs (or any ice pack you already own) to keep everything inside nice and cold for hours. As an added bonus, it's a gorgeous bag with leather handles and a carry strap that comes in a range of retro-inspired colors and patterns. It's made of a thick vinyl-coated canvas, so you know it's durable. There are two exterior pockets, one zippered, to hold small essentials. Use it as a grocery bag to get even more use out of it. Sidney Byron Dimensions: 18 x 15 x 5 inches| Weight: Not listed If you're in the market for a beach bag that makes you feel like you're strolling the South of France instead of constantly chasing kids to reapply sunscreen, this gorgeous (and eco-friendly) Sidney Byron jute and cotton tote is as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional and brimming with high-quality details. I recently took it on a trip and loved the luggage sleeve that let me slip it over my suitcase handle. Stretchy exterior straps on the other side hold up to three straw hats (aka the hardest things to figure out how to pack.) The organic cotton interior is extremely roomy and easily fit everything for a day at the beach including swimsuits, snacks, cover-ups and more. And if your kids are like mine and always knocking things over, the zippered top ensures things stay inside. Two interior pockets, along with another zippered compartment made it easy to organize small things I didn't want to have to dig around for, and the exterior pockets on the side were handy for water bottles. There's also a separate zippered pouch that can clip onto the inside of the bag or be used as a wristlet on its own. Environmentally-conscious parents should know this chic tote is both recyclable and biodegradable. The baby and kids gear team at Forbes Vetted is comprise of parents and journalists who have collectively tested hundreds of the best baby and kids gear for parents include a wide variety of beach-related gear from the best infant life jackets to the best sunscreen for babies and the best stroller wagons. To find the best beach bags for moms, we researched dozens of products we saw other moms carrying or raving about online, along with thorough online research of some of the newest beach bags on the market. With beach bags and pool totes, you'll want to make sure you have enough space for the amount of things you normally carry. That may vary for each family depending on how many kids you're packing for and how old the kids are. Families with toddlers and babies, for instance, will need more space for things like diapers and wipes, while families with older kids may be able to delegate a separate bag for bigger kids to carry their own things. Take note of bag dimensions and buying guides on the brand's website, which often will give real-life examples of how much fits in each particular bag. A bag you'll regularly be toting to a sand or water-filled area is likely to get messy, so make sure it's not a huge pain to clean it, because let's face it, the chances of a busy parent hand-washing a beach bag seem unrealistic. Materials like mesh help any wet things drip out and prevent mold growth, while others like PVC or vinyl coating can easily be wiped clean. Many beach bags on our list can even be hosed down in the backyard. Sometimes nothing feels worse than digging endlessly through a bottomless bag for that one special pacifier or your car keys. Keep an eye out for organization compartments and zippered pockets that'll give you multiple options to keep things separated and easy to find. Many beach bags for moms have interior pockets, exterior pockets or detachable pouches. Some, like the Yeti Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag, have deployable dividers you can pop out to use when needed then pop back to practically disappear into the bag itself, while others like the Bogg Bag have add-on accessories designed specifically to help with organizing. Pick a bag that works for your body to make sure it's something you'll actually want to use day after day. If you're a petite parent, something that's on the bulkier side and extra-large may feel cumbersome to tote to the beach. Conversely, someone on the taller side may want to make sure the straps are long enough to comfortably carry, or that there are additional handle options when towing a particularly heavy load. 'And don't forget about the straps,' says Draugelis. 'I'm always looking for beach totes with straps that are thick enough to not dig in, and made from a comfortable material so they don't irritate my skin.' Bags made of synthetic or durable materials like mesh, polyester and coated canvas are usually a good choice for the beach as they'll be easy to clean and are generally considered lightweight. The Bogg Bag was designed by a mom who wanted a better bag for family adventures and instantly went viral on social media. Moms rave about how lightweight, durable and roomy it is. It was designed to stand on its own without tipping over and the signature holes and EVA material makes cleaning it super easy. No, the Bogg Bag is not made by the same company as Crocs. Although they may bear a similarity in look, style and accessories, they are completely different companies.
