Latest news with #NetiPot
Health Line
3 days ago
- General
- Health Line
How to Do a Sinus Flush at Home
Nasal irrigation with a saline solution can help clear your nasal passages. Following safety tips can help prevent infection. Nasal irrigation, also called saltwater sinus flush, is a safe and simple remedy for nasal congestion and sinus irritation that just about anyone can do at home. A 2022 review of 69 studies concluded that nasal saline treatment is effective for treating most sinonasal diseases. Read on to learn more about what a sinus flush is and if you might benefit from it. What is a sinus flush? A sinus flush, also called nasal irrigation, is a process of sending sterile (very clean) water into one side of your nose, through your sinus passages, and out the other side of your nose. It's usually done with saline, which is just a fancy term for salt water. When rinsed through your nasal passages, saline can wash away allergens, mucus, and other debris, and help to moisten the mucous membranes. Some people use a device called a Neti pot to help deliver the salt water to the nasal cavities, but you can also use squeeze bottles or bulb syringes. A sinus flush is generally safe. However, there are a few important safety instructions to be aware of before you try it. How do you do a sinus flush? The first step to flushing your sinuses is to create a saline solution. Typically, this is done by mixing warm, sterile water with pure salt, known as sodium chloride, to create an isotonic solution — or slightly salty water. While you can create your own saline solution at home, you can also purchase sterile, over-the-counter premixed saline packets. It's crucial to use sterile water for this step. Never use water directly from your tap for a nasal flush without sterilizing it first. This is due to the risk of a rare but serious infection with a parasitic amoeba called Naegleria fowleri. If this amoeba enters the sinuses, it makes its way to the brain and causes a serious infection that can be life threatening. You can sterilize your water by boiling it for a minute and then allowing it to cool. Never use hot water – always let it cool to at least room temperature. To clear your sinuses, follow these steps: Stand with your head over a sink or in the shower and tilt your head to one side. Using a squeeze bottle, bulb syringe, or Neti pot, pour or squeeze the saline solution slowly into the upper nostril. Allow the solution to pour out of your other nostril and into the drain. Breathe through your mouth, not your nose, at this time. Repeat on the opposite side. Try not to let the water go down the back of your throat. You may need to adjust your head position until you find the correct angle. Gently blow your nose into a tissue when you're done to clear out any mucus. If you've recently had sinus surgery, resist the urge to blow your nose for 2 weeks following the procedure. Are there tips to do it safely? You may do sinus flushing along with other medications, like antihistamines or decongestants, that you take. A sinus flush carries a small risk of infection and other side effects, but these risks can be easily avoided by following a few simple safety rules: Wash your hands before the sinus flush. Don't use tap water. Instead, use distilled water, filtered water, or water that has been previously boiled and cooled. Clean out your neti pot, bulb, or squeeze bottle with hot, soapy, and sterile water or run it through the dishwasher after each use. Allow it to dry completely. Avoid using cold water, especially if you've just had sinus surgery. For people who recently had surgery for chronic sinusitis, there's a risk of developing bony growths in the nose called paranasal sinus exostoses (PSE) if you use a cold solution. Avoid using very hot water. Throw away the saline solution if it appears cloudy or dirty. Don't perform nasal irrigation on infants. Don't do a saline sinus flush if you have a facial wound that hasn't healed, a neurologic condition, or musculoskeletal problems that put you at a higher risk of accidentally breathing in the liquid. What are the risks and side effects of doing a sinus flush? As mentioned above, failing to use sterile water carries a small risk of infection with a dangerous parasite called Naegleria fowleri. Symptoms of an infection with this parasite include: severe headache stiff neck fever altered mental status seizures coma Boiling your water for at least a minute and then allowing it to cool before mixing in the salt should be sufficient to kill the parasite and prevent infection. If done properly, a sinus flush shouldn't cause any major side effects. Though you may experience some mild effects, including: stinging in the nose sneezing sensation of ear fullness nosebleeds, though this is rare If you find that a sinus flush is particularly uncomfortable, try lowering the amount of salt in the solution. Keep in mind that some bloody nasal discharge may occur for a few weeks following a sinus surgery. This is normal and should improve over time. Do sinus flushes work? Several studies have shown the effectiveness of nasal irrigation for treating acute and chronic sinusitis and allergies. Doctors most often recommend using saline sinus irrigation for chronic sinusitis. In one older study from 2009, patients with chronic sinus symptoms who used saline sinus irrigation once daily reported a 64% improvement in overall symptom severity and a significant improvement in quality of life after 6 months. Research supporting the use of saline flush to treat allergies or the common cold is less definitive. One recent review of clinical trials in people with allergic rhinitis found that while using a saline solution appeared to improve symptoms compared to not using a saline sinus flush, the quality of evidence was low, and further research is needed. How often should you flush? It's fine to do a sinus flush occasionally if you're experiencing a bout of nasal congestion from a cold or allergies. Start with one irrigation per day while you have nasal congestion or other sinus symptoms. If you feel that it is helping your symptoms, repeat the irrigation up to three times per day. Some people continue to use it to prevent sinus issues even when they don't have symptoms. However, some doctors warn that regular use of nasal irrigation may actually increase the risk of sinus infection. Routine use may also hinder some protective features of the mucus membrane lining the nasal passages and sinuses. More research is needed to clarify any long-term side effects of regular saline sinus flushes. At the moment, it's probably best to limit use to when you're experiencing sinus symptoms, or to ask for your doctor's advice.
Buzz Feed
23-03-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
43 Products Future You Will Be So Glad You Bought At The Start Of Spring
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. Shopping · From rain to pollen to bug bites, you'll be fully prepared for any unexpected spring problems. 1. A lightweight rain jacket you can roll up into a portable little pouch and take with you basically anywhere. Reviewers say this one is perfect for spring weather since it doesn't add too much extra warmth, just some reliable protection from wind and rain. Spring weather is always unpredictable — but you'll be prepared! Promising review:"Took a week-long backpacking trip to Idaho, and this jacket was awesome!!! Kept me dry, the fit is great, and it's really lightweight and comes in its own little condensed package for easy storage while hiking!" — Marlyn Get it from Amazon for $25.59+ (available in women's sizes S–3XL and 25 colors). 2. A sinus rinse bottle, because your nostrils could be the setting for Osmosis Jones 2 with all the annoying allergens that are taking up residence in there. The squeeze bottle design lets you control the flow and pressure of the water, meaning the days of awkwardly tipping your head with a traditional Neti Pot are over. Imagine coming home and rinsing away all the gunk in your nose after a day at the botanical garden. Heaven. Not only do you get the bottle but also three nozzles (two for adults and one for kids) and a 30-pack of nasal wash salt packs. Read more about nasal rinses and allergies at Mayo Clinic — including important info on using distilled or sterilized water. Promising review:"I love the design of this. Very practical and easy to use/clean. If you haven't used a Neti pot before, the first time is a lot like getting dunked in a swimming pool. You have to learn to relax your nasal passage and become accustomed to the water flowing from one nostril into your sinuses and then out the other nostril. By your second attempt, this becomes easy. After a week of using this, I noticed my ear canals were clearer. The first use left my nose clean and clear. Seriously, if you are suffering from congestion/allergens, try this (or another Neti pot) out. It is simple logic. Flush your entire nasal passage and reduce allergens. Nothing fancy, just cleaning your pipes." — New to this Get it from Amazon for $13.85 (available in three colors). 3. A pack of jumbo Spacesaver vacuum storage bags to help you store all your bulky coats into one compact and make space for the floral dresses and flowy tops you're about to impulse buy every time you make a Target run. No more Hulk-smashing your sweaters to one side of your closet so you can grab the cami that's been calling your name! BuzzFeed / Maitland Quitmeyer To activate the compression, simply close the seal at the top, remove cap from the valve and attach a vacuum nozzle to the valve, then turn on until all the air is removed and replace the cap. Promising review:"I've just downsized from a large home in the suburbs to a condo living downtown. Purging and getting rid of so much stuff that I've accumulated throughout the years was life-changing! I had quite a bit of really nice bedding that I wanted to keep but had very little storage space. I decided to order these jumbo bags for King down duvets, thick blankets, and king-sized pillows. I was amazed at how much these held, how easy they were to pack/vacuum, and how much I could fit in such a small space!" — Raquel Moss Get a pack of three jumbo-sized bags from Amazon for $22.99 (also available in three other sizes, a variety pack, and multiple pack sizes). 4. An auto-open (and auto-close!) umbrella with 72,000 rave reviews. Yes, you read that right. How does a meager umbrella have that many fans? Many of them say this is truly windproof — meaning it won't flip inside out when a heavy gust of wind blows your way and embarrasses you in front of everyone on the street. It also has a lifetime replacement warranty! Promising review:"I really got tired of having umbrellas turn inside out during a big rain storm while I'm outside. And it would always happen right in front of people. And those were name-brand umbrellas. So, I checked out reviews about Repel and ordered one. I've used it for a couple of years, and at no time, even during the heaviest of wind and rain, I have not had it turn inside out. I think it's the vent at that top. The vent does not let rain in. So I just bought another Repel umbrella to keep in the vehicle. One for travel with me, one in the vehicle for those very frequent times I drive somewhere, and a rain storm whips up, even though it is not on the weather app!" — Brother O Get it from Amazon for $23.79+ (available in two sizes, 20 colors, and packs of two, three, and four). 5. A pair of ~Dreamlux~ leggings that feel tailor-made for taking an afternoon stroll... even if said stroll is just to grab an iced matcha latte. They're super stretchy, squatproof, and sweat-wicking, so you'll be dry and comfy even in those late days in May when summer feels like it's making an unannounced early arrival 😒. Promising reviews:"Super comfy. I usually don't write reviews. I tried this first before buying Lulu, and these are the most comfortable leggings for every day and even for workouts. Highly recommended!" — Criselle Johnson "I was so surprised by how amazing these leggings are. They feel exactly like Lululemon Align. They are so soft. I am buying every color!" — Kena T. Get them from Amazon for $29+ (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL, two inseams, and 22 colors). 6. A Levoit air-purifier with a three-stage filtration system to capture the pesky allergens floating around your home that are in a full-on war with your sinuses. This will even help capture pet hair if the change of weather is causing your fluffy friend to shed more fur than you even knew was on its little body. Promising review:"This air purifier is great! I bought it because there was a lot of pollen and cat dander in my house which was making my asthma flare-up. Since I've got this air purifier, the cat odor has decreased, and I don't need to use my inhaler as much. The noise is very quiet and not interruptive for me. Overall, I love this item and totally recommend it." — Dana Get it from Amazon for $89.99+ (available in two colors). 7. A bottle of Rain-X water repellent so your windshield wipers won't have to go into hyper-speed just to clear away that pesky afternoon shower on your way home from work (it's been a long enough day already). It'll create a protective invisible coating that repels water so that it forms into small beads and glides away quickly and smoothly. It works best when applied to a clean windshield and should not be used on plastic or surfaces treated with anti-scratch or anti-protective coatings. Promising review:"My dad loves rain-X so much he would buy a T-shirt with their logo if he could. He's used this on my car, and it's great if you have to drive in the rain — I would especially recommend it if you get a headache from having to have rapid windshield wipers on. This repels the rain, so when you are driving, it just glides right off the top of your windshield, so you don't have to use your wipers as much. COLD CLIMATE PEOPLE: If you get frost, sleet, ice, etc., on your windshield, it comes off so much easier if you have rain-X on. I've seen my dad put this on my friend's vehicles when they park outside our house because he wants to share the joy of rain-X with people." — G Tiff Get it from Amazon for $6.99. 8. A bug-repellent wristband that's not only a perfect way to top up your bug spray protection, but also the perfect accessory for all the vibrant tops you're about to buy. These deet-free bracelets are infused with citronella, geranium, and lemongrass oils, which makes them fragrant enough to add extra protection against pesky mosquitoes that want to turn your ankle into a Golden Corral. Just be sure to keep them in their resealable plastic bags when not in use to help them last longer. Reviewers say when stored properly, these can last for up to two weeks. Heads up: As far as "natural" bug sprays go, the CDC only recommends formulas with oil of lemon eucalyptus, so this won't provide the same amount of protection as products containing typical bug repellents like deet and picaridi. Check out the Repel 100 Insect Repellent if you need a stronger bug spray to start your day with. Promising review: "Ok myself and my kids are mosquito attractants. They love us. Me especially. After one particular night when my neighbor had a backyard birthday party, and we spent from 3 pm to 11 pm in her backyard/grass area, I came home with — I'm not exaggerating, I counted — over 70 mosquito bites on my legs and arms. My one son had at least 25. So, needless to say, I went scouring Amazon for some wearable repellents that weren't the obnoxious spray that wears off… Alas. I found it! I immediately ordered these, and I will never go without them again. I didn't get a single bite after I started wearing these. I will say that since I do get so many, I sometimes wore one on my ankle and one on my opposite wrist just to cover all bases, but it worked. The individual resealable bags that come with each is especially useful. One son took two with him in his football bag for football practice every da, and I got to keep two in my purse at all times just in case." — Stokes Family Cliganic is a small business specializing in essential oils and skincare. Get a pack of 10 from Amazon for $9.99 (also available in packs of 25 and 50). 9. And the super popular Bug Bite Thing, which uses the simple power of suction to alleviate the post-bite itching and swelling from the adorable but vicious bumblebee that attacked you while you were distracted by an equally cute butterfly that landed on a daffodil (I think they may have been working together). It works on everything from mosquito bites to wasp stings, so you'll probably want this in your pocket any time you leave the house this spring. This works by suctioning up insect venom, saliva, and other irritants under the skin, which in turn prevents your body from producing a reaction to said irritant. You can also use it to treat bites from bees, wasps, biting flies, no-see-ums, chiggers, and sea lice. Promising review: 'You need this! I am a magnet for bites of all kinds and carry topical and medicines with me at all times – so I figured this would be a good product to see if it really works. I used this little tool (3x per the instructions) and documented it with photos. Immediately after using it, [my bite] stopped itching! And less than 24 hours later, the bump/bite was gone! There is a very faint red mark from using the thing, but it is a small price to pay, IMO. Bottom line: it's awesome. I'm carrying it with me everywhere! ' — Rebecca Bug Bite Thing is a small business specializing in bug bite relief and tick removal products. Get it from Amazon for $9.95+ (available in one-, two-, or three-packs and in five colors). 10. A bottle of Crep Protect spray to basically turn your go-to sneakers into waterproof rain boots. One coat of the quick-drying formula will repel water and stains for up to four weeks, so you can frolic and splash around in as many puddles as you want without ruining your favorite white kicks. Promising review:"Tried this product because of the reviews. It did not disappoint! Sprayed our running shoes before a long trip to France. We had lots of rain and only realized after getting home that we NEVER had wet feet! Every new pair will get treated before they're worn!" — Richard L. Get it from Amazon for $16. 11. Or a pair of waterproof shoes in vibrant pastel colors that are the epitome of spring. They're so much lighter and more stylish than your typical heavy rain boots, and reviewers say they're super supportive and comfy. Plus, nothing knocks the cool out of you like tripping over oversized galoshes. Let's leave those in springs past where they belong. Promising review:"I absolutely love these shoes! I originally bought them for a trip to Washington, DC where it was going to rain most of the time. I have Hunter rain boots, but knew we would be walking a lot and didn't want to be weighed down on the trip. I was four months pregnant and wore these for two of the days where we walked over nine miles each day (ugh!), and these were SOO COMFORTABLE! My feet didn't have any blisters or sore spots (which I am very prone to), and I handled the rain/puddles like a champ! I love that they looked like normal shoes but were wiped clean with a baby wipe! On the last day, it was dry, so I wore Adidas Cloud running shoes. My feet hurt halfway through the day, and I wanted to go change into these. Totally surprised by the comfort and quality of these rain shoes. I now use them when in the garden or anytime it rains!" — AmazonFamily Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in women's sizes 5.5–11, low-top and high-top styles, and five colors). 12. A water-resistant backpack to keep your belongings safe from any April showers while you're going on your first hike of the season — or your first ride of Tiana's Bayou Adventure. Reviewers say this is super lightweight and surprisingly spacious, and it folds down into an included carrying pouch when not in use. Promising review: "I got this little bag for a Disneyland trip back in 2019, and since then, it's been my theme park bag for just about any park. It keeps the water from any rides or rain out while keeping everything inside nice and dry. I even threw in some of those silica gel packets to keep the inside from getting moist from any wet items I put inside. It's just the right size for taking on almost any ride, even when it's stuffed completely full! And for how often I stuff it to the brim, I haven't had any issues with the material ripping or the zipper coming off! — Roberto C. Get it from Amazon for $12.74+ (available in 13 colors). 13. Or a nifty waterproof backpack cover — it's one of those purchases you might not need right away, but you'll feel like a ready-for-anything genius when you get caught in a surprise rain shower. It's basically a fitted sheet for your backpack, with a scratch-proof exterior and waterproof interior. Just fold it up and keep it in your backpack so you'll be ready for any inclement weather or rough hiking trails. Promising review: "Used them when raining and snowing a few times now, and they are amazing! My bag would get wet before, but not after I started using these. Also, it takes almost no space, so it is easy to store in the bag and use when needed. Great product!" — Aleksandar A. Get two from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in five sizes, five colors, and various pack options). 14. A no-scrub Wet & Forget weekly shower cleaner to help your shower stay fresh, because the best part of a perfect spring day is washing it away with a relaxing shower. A quick coating of this magical spray will stop soap scum and residue from forming before they have a chance to take over your entire tub. Just spray and walk away — your future self will be so grateful that your spring-cleaning efforts were not in vain!! Promising review:"I saw this product on TikTok and decided to try it out for myself. The name doesn't lie — spray it on, shut the bathroom door, and in a few hours, the shower is 100 times cleaner. Usually, I'll let it sit overnight, and by morning, the visible grime on the shower is gone, including soap scum. I'll usually let the shower water rinse the residue out and then will take a bucket just to get everything off the shower walls. It is a bit slick if you try to get in the shower without rinsing the residue, but otherwise, it's a worthy cleaning staple in my house." — Tara D. Get it from Amazon for $19.98+ (available in two scents and two sizes). 15. An extremely popular jumpsuit that's become a bit of a viral sensation — and for good reason. Flight attendants swear by it since it's lightweight, super easy to pack, and wrinkle-resistant, so you'll win the coveted and very real "Flyest Airport Dresser" award on your much-anticipated flight to Punta Cana for spring break. Promising review:"Made very well. Nice breathable fabric that isn't too thick/heavy but also isn't cheap or too thin. It's very soft, lightweight, and flows nicely. Nice quality. I'm always extremely skeptical about elastic waists because they can kill a look; I was ECSTATIC to find that this isn't your average elastic waist. It gathers just enough to give definition between torso and hips and isn't even close to being too tight or snug around the turnout. Seriously, I was so excited. The off-shoulder neckline is sexy and feminine, and living in Arizona, between having a shoulder exposed and putting my hair up, it makes me feel 50% cooler in the hot temps. Love it." — Holly Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in women's sizes S–3XL and 32 colors). 16. An "Everyday Mindfulness"-themed word search book for anyone looking to decrease their screen time now that it's finally nice enough to actually touch grass. From anagram searches to fill-in-the-blank puzzles, you'll be so entertained you won't even miss your phone while tackling brain teasers under that perfectly shaded tree in the park. But please pause your mindfulness if any dogs approach for pets and scritches. Amazon, Promising review: "This is exactly what I was looking for! It lays flat to easily complete the word search and not have to fight with the book. There are different types of puzzles, and some have extra secret searches! It's great for the slow days at work!! I will definitely be buying more of these word searches!" — Roy Y Hahn Get it from Amazon for $11.68. 17. The ChomChom pet hair remover roller to trap all the pet hair your fur baby is spreading all over your home like bees spread pollen. It's perfect for restoring your couch back to its former glory (remember when it used to be blue?!) or making your car's seats look presentable again. Reviewers especially love this one (it's a constant best-seller on Amazon) since it only takes a few rolls back and forth to pick up the toughest pet hair. Promising review:"I have a golden retriever, and the shedding is out of control. My fabric sofa is constantly covered in hair and I finally decided to try this after reading an article about popular TikTok products. The reviews do not lie; this thing works magic!! I wish I had taken a before and after picture because the difference is noticeable. I watched the video tutorial before I tried it to ensure I was using it properly, and everything he says is true; you do really have to put your arm to work with vigorous back-and-forth movement! However, I find it's a great arm workout, and it works wonders." — Joanne Ertel Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in four colors). 18. A migraine relief cap you'll love so much you might just Google, "Can I marry an inanimate object?" when it saves you after a long day of bright sunshine and the all-you-can-breathe pollen buffet knows as "fresh air." You can throw it in the freezer or microwave for both hot and cold treatments, and you can also wear it as a sleep mask! Read more about how temperature therapy can help with migraine prevention at Mayo Clinic. Promising review: "I heard about it on TikTok, and I was skeptical. I put it in the freezer as soon as I got it in the mail. Then, out of nowhere, I felt a headache coming on. I pulled it out of the freezer, slipped it on, and I passed out. When I woke up, my migraine was gone. I now go to bed with it on almost every night. I love that it's a blackout mask. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!" — TheWalkFam Get it from Amazon for $29.95+ (available in six colors and two-packs). 19. Or a pack of self-heating disposable eye masks so you can get some sweet relief if the sunny weather and vibrant flowers surrounding you are just a bit too much for your sensitive eyes. They spent all winter reading in ambient lighting, they need time to adjust!! No microwave needed for this one — just remove it from the pack, slip it on, then kick back for 10-15 minutes while it self-heats and helps relieve pressure and dryness in the eye area. Amazon, This heats up to 104-110 degrees for up to 30 minutes. According to Mayo Clinic, warm compresses can help relieve dry eyes by helping to clear up blocked oil glands. Promising review: "I was skeptical at first, but I was struggling with dryness so much that I was using eye drops multiple times a day. After giving these a try, I'm thrilled with the results! They provide soothing warmth and relief, and I've noticed a huge difference—I've cut back on eye drops to just once a day, sometimes not at all. They're easy to use, travel-friendly, and feel so relaxing. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a simple, effective way to keep their eyes comfortable!" — Tiffany D. CorneaCare is a small business specializing in products for dry eye relief. Get a pack of 30 from Amazon for $31.50. 20. And! Lumify Eye Drops for when the allergy fairy comes to visit you at night and blesses you with bloodshot eyes in the morning. This redness-reducing solution is made with brimonidine tartrate to whiten and brighten your eyes for up to 8 hours. They're a bit more expensive than traditional eye drops, but more than 26,000 reviewers swear by them. Learn more about different kinds of eye drops and what they can do at Cleveland Clinic. Note that eye drops can potentially mask symptoms of eye conditions, so you should talk to your eye doctor about what's right for you. And according to Mayo Clinic, you should avoid redness-reducing drops if you're looking for dry eye relief. Promising review:"I have a big spot of blood vessels in the inner corner of my left eye. I use the expensive lubricant eye drops for moisture — I've used Visine, Clear Eyes, you name it. No eye drop has made my eyes look this great. Only Lumify! I was soo happy when I looked in the mirror." — Angela Leonard Get it from Amazon for $11.33. 21. A flowy and twirly A-line pleated skirt, because spring is practically designed for twirling around in the grass and living your best influencer life. Reviewers note that it's true to size, and the waistband gives the perfect amount of stretch while still staying in place. Promising review:"The skirt is as beautiful as I imagined it would be; it's exactly as pictured. It's very comfortable, and due to the elastic waistband, very forgiving as far as fit. It's perfect for work or a casual day out." — Elayne Get it from Amazon for $35.99 (available in women's sizes XS–2XL and eight colors). 22. A cooling memory foam mattress topper that'll instantly upgrade your bed and have you feeling like you checked into The White Lotus for spring break... without the murder, of course. It's infused with temperature-regulating gel beads that capture and dissipate heat so you can sleep soundly and comfortably — even when you're bundled up under your thickest blanket. Amazon Promising review:"After a week, my back pain was virtually gone. I didn't want to jump to conclusions, though, so I decided to give it more time. It's now been over a month and the topper has held up perfectly, the back pain is still virtually nonexistent, and even better, I'm not waking up as sweaty, so I guess the gel in the topper is doing the trick as waking up in a sweat had been part of my issue. Simply put, I'm now sleeping through the night better and waking up feeling better, so I'd say this is definitely worth looking at if you're having back issues with your mattress." — David T. Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes twin–California king, two thickness levels, and with or without a cover). 23. And! A genius mini weighted blanket so you'll have a warm-weather-friendly way to destress and relax now that wedding season is threatening to drain your entire life's savings. It's also basically a must for anyone who needs at least one foot out of the blanket at all times. The smaller size means you can focus on the area of your body that needs it most, and it's way easier to take it from room to room. Read more about how to choose a weight, plus what these blankets help with and how from Cleveland Clinic. Get it from Amazon for $26.98+ (available in three weights and six colors). 24. A pullover hoodie with some built-in ventilation thanks to the cold-shoulder design so you won't have to change 'fits when the afternoon brunch that turns into an early-evening backyard hang. Reviewers say it's surprisingly lightweight yet still thick enough to keep you warm on unpredictably chilly spring nights. Reviewers say it runs on the smaller side, so if you don't want a semi-fitted look consider sizing up. Promising review:"It fit as expected. Nothing fancy. It is exactly as listed. I've washed it several times now and haven't seen any problems. Cute due to the cold shoulder part, but not trying to be too sexy." — Hilary Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes S–XXL and in 13 colors). 25. An oscillating tower fan for anyone who is determined to not touch the AC until absolutely necessary. Reviewers say it's super quiet, so your partner or roommate won't give you the side-eye every time you turn it on. There's also a special nighttime setting that slowly decreases the fan speed while you sleep, which your body temperature will greatly appreciate. It also includes a remote control and has a timer function! Promising reviews:"I bought this for my dorm room and it is hands down one of the best purchases I made. The assembly portion was super easy, and I needed no assistance. The fan is pretty strong, and the noise level is not too high!" — Sharon "I live in Louisiana. Not only is the temperature around what the fiery pits of Hell must be like but there is also humidity to add even more fun to it. I come home to a house that is roughly around 84 degrees F at 5:30 in the evening so I needed a little help with cooling off. Within five minutes of turning this thing on it was like an angel had come down from heaven and began to personally blow cool air on my face. I was genuinely close to tears. If this thing only lasts a month, it will have been worth the money." — Lori Get it from Amazon for $74.99+ (available in two colors). 26. A waterproof car seat cover — now your little pup won't cover the entirety of your backseat in a layer of muddy grass when they're done enjoying the return of dog park and puppuccino season. Now you can easily wipe away any mess, as well as the dreaded shedding that happens this time of year. Also, I'm your dog's lawyer and I'm required to tell you that puppuccino season is now January through December — we are not afraid to take legal action if necessary. It also has nonslip backing, adjustable headrest anchors, seat anchors, a trunk cargo liner, and two seatbelt openings to keep your pup in place. Promising review: " Winter, camping, messy item! It's perfect. There's nothing negative at all to say about it. It fits perfectly in my backseat. The material is waterproof and extremely easy to wipe mud off with a damp cloth for easy cleaning. My dog usually doesn't like the feel of these things or the sound they make when he walks on them, but this one he doesn't seem to even laid on it! What? I would recommend this cover to ANYONE with a dog." — alexander Get it from Amazon for $19.14+ (available in two sizes and four colors). 27. A popular foot exfoliant that'll get your feet in tip-top shape for the return of sandal season — and the results are equal parts disgusting and oh-so-satisfying. Within one to two weeks, the dead skin on your feet will literally start to peel off (gross!) and reveal the supremely soft skin that was hiding underneath (satisfying!). Check it out in action on TikTok here! Promising review:"I was dubious at first, having seen this on TikTok. I can now confirm that it works as directed, and the results are amazing. 24 hours after I soaked my feet in the plastic bag, nothing happened. Then, 48 hours later, it started working. 72 hours, and it was in full working mode. Like other reviewers, I also suggest just letting the skin come off naturally. As someone who wears flip-flops often, I opted for socks and shoes during the shedding period to capture the skin, even when sleeping, because who wants chunks of dead skin in their bedsheets?! (it sounds so gross, but you'll understand once you do it) The shedding lasts for a few days. The results are incredible. Will use this again!" — Vanessa Get a pack of two from Amazon for $19.99 (also available in six other formulas, a large size, and various packs). 28. A seamless bodysuit so you'll have the perfect wear-with-anything top to take you from a day at the botanic garden to your first rooftop bar of the season. You can also simply wear it under your 'fit for extra shaping support — so it's perfect if you're looking for Skims results but your budget is looking a Slims. Promising review:"Obsessed! Finally got the TikTok body suit! I'm obsessed; it fits like a glove but isn't cutting off my ability to breathe or stuff my face with food. The fabric is so comfortable! BUY IT!" — Kenley Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS–4XL and 11 colors). 29. A stainless-steel Owala insulated water bottle that'll keep you hydrated during any theme park trips you have planned — do NOT pay those ridiculous prices for bottled water!!! This bottle is super popular thanks to its genius two-in-one spout. Want a quick sip? Use the small opening to drink with the built-in straw. Need a bigger gulp? Swing the cup back to bypass the straw and use the larger opening instead. It's designed to be easy to disassemble and clean, and the lid and straw are dishwasher-safe! And the 24-ounce bottles are designed to be universally cup holder-friendly. Promising review: " I found these water bottles from TikTok and had to try. I am an avid straw user, but as a mom of twin toddlers, I don't have an extra hand to carry a straw cup. This is incredible. I can close the lid, throw it in my diaper bag, or even carry it by the handle with a finger or two while carrying my phone/keys. The lid pops open all the way, so you don't have to mess with it like you do with some other water bottles. Super convenient and extremely easy to clean! It also has a large straw (vs. a skinny one), which is really nice. This 40 oz one doesn't fit in my cup holder in my car, so I'll be purchasing the next size down when the color I want is back in stock. 11/10 recommend!" — Megan Wysocki Get it from Amazon for $24.98+ (available in four sizes and 18 colors). 30. A bottle of Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray because all this balmy weather means your hair's arch nemesis has returned: humidity. Just spray this on your hair while it's damp, give it a thorough blow-dry, then enjoy the smoothing and shiny benefits for up to three shampoos! Your hair's gonna look so shiny when you take a pic in front of the countless flower walls every trendy restaurant is setting up right now. Check out a TikTok of the Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray in action. Promising reviews: "I rarely — I don't think ever — rave about a hair product, but this is an exception. I got it to smooth out the frizzies in my hair, and it performed above and beyond my expectations. I'm not a fan of the price, but I'll keep buying it because it's worth it. I highly recommend this product!" — Amazon Customer "You guys! I've never left a review on Amazon, but I had to! I was going to a concert and needed my hair to hold up all day & night! I decided to give the product a proper go on my 4b/4c hair. I washed my hair, applied this liberally, blow-dried, then flat ironed my hair. I did not add ANY additional product. No oils, hairspray, NOTHING. There is also a heat protectant in this product, although it isn't displayed on the bottle (check the website). I waited outside for hours, I was sweating, dancing, it was hot and humid, and my hair did not revert!! When I got home after the concert, my hair looked like I just did it. I'm SHOOK! If this product is used properly, it will work! The key is clean freshly washed hair with minimal oils & moisture. No leave-ins, etc., so I suggest a wash and deep condition, but once you rinse it out, add no other product but this. Thank me later 😘" — Skye I. Get it from Amazon for $12+ (available in two sizes). Psst — you can also get this in an"extra strength" version and a curly hair version! 31. And a pomade hair wax stick so you can smooth down stray hairs, cowlicks, or set baby hairs back into place after you partake in one of spring's most beloved pastimes: the afternoon nap. Just swipe it over any targeted areas you want to smooth and it'll provide some seriously strong hold without any sticky residue. Now your hair will finally hold up in windy weather! Promising reviews:"I saw this on YouTube and immediately wanted to try it. I have curly hair, which I love, but sometimes I just want to put it in a ponytail and go on with my day. This is a time saver for all those little hairs that tend to stick up or don't want to stay in place. I'm not a fan of hairspray, and this even smells nice. I believe it's a light coconut smell. Overall satisfied, and you don't need to use much. I took it with me on vacation, and it saved me time in the evening from having to deal with bad hair days." — Blanca Perez "I have 4A-4B curls. When my hair is straight, there are a few spots that are a little frizzier than others which to me, isn't a big deal. Some flyaways however were the biggest reason why I got this. It lays the baby hairs and is a little bit of a heavier product. I will say, you just have to be careful if you're not used to using heavy product. The first time I used it, I just put a little in my hands and then put it where it was needed." — Jay Get it from Amazon for $7.99 (also available in multipacks). 32. A fast-acting plug-in fly trap that looks like a simple night light to the unsuspecting eye but actually uses UV LED light to attract the flies, fruit flies, moths, and gnats that are using your home as their Airbnb for the spring. The refillable glue trap is placed on the back, so you won't even have to see the flies until it's time to replace it. Promising review:"I can't say enough wonderful things about these handy little bug catchers! They are simple to use, cheap to refill, and catch a ton of small bugs and flies. I have eight of them now, all around my house! It's a little gross how many tiny flying insects are around…but it makes me feel a lot better now that I have these!" — Chris H. Get the device and two refill cards from Amazon for $14.97 (Also available in a two-pack. You can also pick up a refill packs separately for $6.97+). 33. And an adorable insect catcher to help trap any annoying bugs that are as obsessed with your newly sprouted peonies and lilies as you are. They're waterproof and UV-resistant, so no need to worry about hot, rainy weather ruining their bug-catching ability. The gnats that have turned your monstera into their favorite hangout spot have no idea what's coming 🦟. Reviewers note that these work best if you put them somewhere the flies are already attracted to — these will definitely trap them, but they won't attract them on their own. Promising review: " I have a lot of plants and, unfortunately, gnats are a byproduct of them. These sticky traps are the solution I've been looking for! They're incredible, work like a dream, and I'll definitely be ordering again." — daltjams Get a pack of 18 from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in various shapes and also in larger quantities). 34. A lightly tinted 30 SPF sunscreen from dermatologist-fave brand Cerave so you can take that super expensive skin tint off of your Sephora spring sale wishlist (it's objectively the best holiday of the season). There are only three shades to choose from, but each is designed to seamlessly blend into a variety of skin tones, so don't worry if it looks a little too light or dark out of the bottle. And like most Cerave products, you'll get some ceramides and niacinamide to soothe and restore your skin's natural barrier. Promising review:"I'm Black, so of course, most sunscreens tend to give me a pale appearance when I put them on. That or they tend to irritate my eyes after a while... I found this sunscreen because I wanted something better for for me and it's awesome!! It doesn't leave me looking pasty or things like that. It also doesn't take a long time to blend in with my skin and doesn't irritate it or my eyes. It's great, and will buy again!" — Lovelylanna Get it from Amazon for $13.97+ (available in three shades). 35. A bottle of Tend Skin Solution to help reduce razor bumps and ingrown hairs if you prefer to shave during the return of tank-tops-and-shorts season. The formula includes topical aspirin, which can help reduce inflammation caused by ingrown hairs and irritation from hair removal. Shaving is annoying enough as it is — nobody needs a painful reminder afterward. To use, simply put a few drops on a cotton ball and apply to the affected area. It can be used to minimize already-existed razor bumps, and can also be used after hair removal to prevent bumps and ingrown hairs. Promising review:"This works so amazingly well, I wish I knew about this product sooner and this is going to be something I will always have around. I only use it around my bikini area, but it takes care of any razor bumps I've had and works quickly. It does sting a little if you have a little cut, but for me the stinging doesn't last long and isn't unbearable by any means. Highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a solution to razor bumps." — Sarah Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in three sizes). 36. A pack of UV-detection stickers that start out clear once you apply sunscreen, then turn purple once it's time to reapply! The dots absorb sunscreen the same way your skin does, so the purple color lets you know when your skin has absorbed all the SPF you applied earlier. Imagine spending all day farmers-market-hopping and not getting a sunburn. IMAGINE!!! Start by applying the sticker to your skin, then apply sunscreen on your skin and over the dot, wait 30 seconds for it to absorb and then face direct sunlight for one minute to make the spot turn clear. Once it turns from clear to purple, you'll know it's time for another layer of sunscreen! Promising review:"After yet another bad sunburn, even though I'm trying VERY HARD to keep sunscreen on, I bought these. First use was at Disneyland on a 90-degree zero clouds day. This helped so much! I kept an eye (as did my friends) on the dot so we all knew when to reapply sunscreen, and not one of us got burned. I also used these on a weeklong hiking adventure in Utah where it was also in the 90s with an extreme UV index. None of us got burned, so all in all, this is one of the best inventions!" — Catherine Shock Get a 16-pack from Amazon for $16.49+ (also available in two other pack sizes). 37. A very viral veggie chopper so you can perfectly prepare all those veggies you hauled home in a giant tote bag from the farmer's market. Just place your veggie on top of the interchangeable blades, press down on the lid, and you'll have a container full of perfectly chopped produce! More than 80,000 reviewers have upgraded their cooking game, thanks to this genius gadget. Future you will be so proud at how many fresh veggies you've consumed all season. The 4-in-1 model comes with two chopping blades (one with small cubes and one with larger cubes) and two spiralizer blades (a julienne cutter and a ribbon cutter). You'll also receive a finger guard, two cleaning brushes, and two cleaning scrapers. All pieces are dishwasher-safe! Promising review:"Makes life so much easier. I can't imagine chopping onions or bell peppers by hand anymore, and it does so much more. This requires very little effort to cut through the food, and it has a generous container." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $29.97+ (available in five styles and four colors). 38. A duffel bag that's roomy enough to fit all the essentials for a short trip — you'll be so glad you don't have to lug a heavy suitcase around the airport on your much-deserved spring break vacay. The interior contains three pockets for organization and a bonus wet pocket to keep dirty laundry or soaked toiletries separate from your other clothes. Amazon, It's water-resistant and has an adjustable long strap. Promising review: "I recently went camping and was able to pack a lot into this bag. It zipped up easily. I love the color, it's almost a 'neutral pink' and not too 'look at me, I'm Barbie in the woods!' The shoulder strap was comfortable, and the handles were comfortable, too. It was snowing while unloading from the truck to the cabin, and despite this bag getting wet (and VERY cold), everything inside was very dry." — Smile Saurus Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in a variety of colors/styles and two sizes). 39. A ridiculously helpful Grampa's Weeder, which lets you pull weeds with NO kneeling or bending required! No more killing your back and knees — you'll need them to roam around your yard and take in the glorious weather. Just center it over the weed, step down on the foot handle, then lean the weeder in the direction of the footpad and gently lift up. Amazon Promising review:" I saw this tool used on TikTok, so we decided to try it out. It works really well — it is not difficult to get to the root of the weed and is fairly simple to use, as well. We would recommend this tool to anyone who finds it difficult to do the crouching required to pull weeds." — Mary Grampa's Weeder is a family-owned small biz that sells tools to make weeding easier! Get it from Amazon for $39.99. 40. A super-long duster that's basically a magic wand for the dust that piles up, like all over the Lego flower bouquets you bought to add some ~springy childlike wonder~ to your decor. It can reach high enough to clean your ceiling fans and vents and far enough to clean that weird space underneath your dresser. You could practically lay on the couch and speedily dust every surface around you when last-minute visitors are on their way. The microfiber dusting head is completely removable and machine-washable. Promising review:"This sucker is LOOOONG. It's also short when you need it to be. But its length is one of its greatest assets, being able to reach even those ceiling beams you couldn't reach before. Finally reach the tops of picture frames that are hanging in awkwardly high places. Clean off the poles that extend the drop of the ceiling fans. Dust the corner speakers mounted at the ceiling. This is what I did in no time at all with this duster, and despite nearly two years of web buildup in some high places, I got the whole job done in just a few minutes. Seriously, you can wipe down all the webs that have been built — all without standing directly beneath the duster! The extra length also means no unexpected guests are going to drop down your shirt while you're evicting them. And I'm perfectly okay with that." — M. C. Payette Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (also available with extra attachments). 41. A pair of Nippies, which you'll be SO glad to have when that super cute maxi dress you splurged on isn't as supportive as it looked on the model. The medical-grade adhesive provides a strong waterproof hold, and they're entirely washable and reusable. Reviewers love them for tops and dresses that just don't work with a regular bra — and they come in several colors to match various skin tones. Promising review: " I would've never expected these to change my life, haha! But they have! They are absolutely incredible and work so well!! They actually provide lift and coverage and are an amazing replacement for strapless bras, which I hate. They work so well, and I can finally wear dresses that normal bras don't work under! Yay!!" — Leah S. BuzzFeed Shopping editor Natalie Brown swears by these pasties! Check out her Nippies review to learn more. Get a set from Amazon for $26.50+ (available in five shades and two sizes: one that fits cups A–C and one that fits cups D+; also available in a style with a lifting effect). 42. "Fresh Breasts" lotion — a quick-drying cream that dries down to a powder that'll help mop up all the excess sweat and moisture that's threatening to put a damper — emphasis on the damp —on the hike you were looking forward to all week. It'll also provide some anti-chafe protection so you can comfortably rock those jean shorts that have been calling to you for weeks now. Promising review:"This stuff is amazing. I am a sweaty person. Apparently, I have no thermostat because, randomly, I will just start sweating, and it's a lot. Well, I ended up with yeast under my breasts, and it gets red and sore. After you shower, dry off real well and apply this cream (a little dab will do ya) under your breasts and say goodbye to the inflammation and soreness. I also use in down there region too. I will be buying this forever." — Deb Warwick Fresh Body is a small business that specializes in personal care products. Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (also available in multiple pack sizes). 43. And a pack of 30 aluminum-free deodorant wipes so you can quickly freshen up those pits while you're galivanting around town picking up fresh flowers and fruit like the spring diva you were destined to be. These are super easy to carry around, and just a few swipes will help neutralize odors and leave behind a tropical coconut scent. Amazon Promising reviews:"This is my go-to product after the gym. I hate feeling/being sweaty/sticky. And it smells so good." — Amazon Customer "I have always suffered from bad odor on my underarms since I have very delicate skin, so I can't use strongly scented deodorants. I'm always trying out cream deodorant or gels, but it either irritates my skin or it doesn't stop my bad odor. THIS IS THE BEST INVENTION EVER. I LOVE IT! I can't believe that something finally works! My armpits don't smell bad. I can finally move my arms freely. The scent is wonderful; I love the smell, and it's not harsh on my skin. Even after a long day, my underarms are still smelling like coconut." — Vicky Reyes Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (also available in packs of two and four). Reviews here have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Telegraph
15-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Telegraph
Cyndi Lauper: ‘I love animals, but I don't know how to live without meat'
How do famous names spend their precious downtime? In our weekly My Saturday column, celebrities reveal their weekend virtues and vices. This week: Cyndi Lauper 9am I hate getting up early: if I'd wanted to be a farmer, I'd have been a farmer. At home in New York, I'll lie in, then go for a walk. I miss my pugs, Ping and Lulu, when I'm on tour, and my husband [the actor David Thornton] doesn't come with me because he has his own stuff going on – but he's meeting me in Paris. 9.30am The first thing I do is get a Neti Pot and rinse out my nose with a mixture of salts. 10am I always listen to my body or I'm screwed. I start my physical therapy, feet first, then shoulder rolls, lower back and a bird dog. Then I do intense yoga, and weights for my legs and arms. 11am I make space to sing for an hour and a half. I'll hear a weak spot, zero in, and exercise to strengthen it. All my life, people would tell me, 'You're too small to sing like that' but I found a teacher who was teaching rockers, and I use her exercises religiously. 12.30pm Somebody comes in and helps me pack up to get to the gig [the Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour is in the UK this week. Lauper played Belfast on February 16]. 1pm I eat as much as I can until it's time to get ready for the show. I'll have salad, protein and a baked potato, because everything's better with a little butter. I was getting vegan food delivered until they used too much spinach. It kills me because I love animals and, if you love them, you don't eat them. But I don't know how to live on the road without meat. I tried the vegetarian thing and the pescatarian thing, but the fish wants to live too, right? I gotta figure it out. 3pm We sound check to make sure you can hear what you need to hear, but it's live, so s—t happens. Before the first show in the US, I woke up in a panic attack, terrified, and, when I played New York, I got so nervous, thinking, 'You idiot, you invited everybody, so if you suck, you are gonna suck in such a big way.' I have to get that out of my head. 5pm I get my butt on the bike and ride for 20 minutes, doing a stupid Peloton. I'm 71 and I'm strong – as a performer, you have to be an athlete because, if you're not, your voice won't be in prime shape. When I had Covid, it killed a nerve on my vocal cord and doctors said: 'Well, you'll never sing like that again.' I had to work to get that back. 8pm I tell everybody, 'Hey, guys, have a great show,' but I don't believe in the 'Let's put our hands together and pray' thing. I'll say, 'Don't freak out, it's rock 'n' roll, have a good time.' 10pm I dismantle my face and stick it over some steam, then start my vocal warm-down. 12am I'm reading about Mother Cabrini. I never look at comments about me, because everybody's got an opinion, good for them, but I saw one saying, 'She has cleavage at her age?' and I'm like, 'I'm not a nun, am I supposed to dress like Mother Cabrini?' When the movie [Cabrini] came out, my friends said, 'You gotta see this.' It made me want to know about her life. She was a force of nature – and another diminutive white woman.
