Latest news with #luscious
The Hindu
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
A new dessert menu at Burma Burma
Burma Burma's latest offering, The Sweet Life, is a dedicated dessert menu that introduces seven all-new plated creations. All the desserts are eggless. If one word could sum it all up? Indulgent. Each dessert is thoughtfully crafted by the restaurant's culinary team in collaboration with award-winning pastry chef Vinesh Johny of Lavonne Academy. Drawing inspiration from Burma's vibrant orchards and lively local markets, the menu bursts with fruit-forward flavours — think zingy sorbets, velvety gelato, luscious compotes, tangy salsas, and even delicate fruit caviar. Texture and colour take centre stage here, with playful twists: mango leather is swapped out for mango wax, and traditional sago pearls are reimagined as berry caviar. In Burmese culture, fruits represent prosperity and generosity, a sentiment that underpins every element on this menu. One of the highlights is the milk tea cheesecake, a Burmese take on the classic basque-style cheesecake. Infused with laphet ye (Burmese milk tea), it arrives plated with a warm apple compote and a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. The result is an balance of comfort and finesse, where every bite brings a new surprise. Also on the menu is the Celebration Cake — a rich, seven-layer chocolate cake paired with tart cherries and a theatrical molten chocolate pour. It is indulgent and perfect for those moments when only serious chocolate will do. 'The new dessert menu at Burma Burma is our way of taking familiar, much-loved desserts — cheesecakes, tres leches — and reimagining them through the lens of Burmese ingredients and inspiration,' says head chef Ansab Khan. 'Each creation is rooted in memories of fruit stalls, seasonal abundance, and cross-cultural exchange.' There is the Silkroute Sundae, for instance, pays tribute to the trade routes that brought saffron, pistachios, and dried apricots to Burma. It is rich, creamy, and a visual stunner. Equally striking is The Flower Bouquet, a pavlova inspired by Burmese orchards and bustling fruit markets. It is a riot of mango, kiwi, and passion fruit salsa, topped with crisp meringue and served with coconut-ginger ice cream. A standout is the Coconut and Pineapple Crème Brûlée — a rich custard with a caramelised top, paired with pineapple compote, cinnamon gelato, honeycomb, and a buttery semolina cake crumble. The combination is beautifully layered, both in flavour and texture. The Sweet Life is now available across Burma Burma's outlets in Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Ahmedabad. Average price is ₹450–₹500 onwards.
The Irish Sun
27-06-2025
- General
- The Irish Sun
Gardeners MUST carry out essential task if they want to get thick, bushy & super green lawns that last all summer
MANY people want thick, luscious lawns in their garden, but it can be tricky to achieve with hot weather and weeds springing up. One green-fingered whizz has shared an essential task you should do to get great results that last all summer. Advertisement 4 A woman has shared how she managed to transform her lawn from being patchy Credit: Facebook 4 She got her lawn looking luscious using an essential gardening task Credit: Facebook 4 Westland Triple Care currently costs £10 on Amazon Credit: AMAZON A fellow gardener had made a plea for help after using Westland Triple Care on their grass, which they claim left it looking 'patchy.' Taking to the Facebook group Gardening on a Budget Official, they shared: 'What on earth! 'The grass was a little patchy and had some moss. 'I used this last week after spending two days using an aerator. 'The state of the grass now..... Advertisement More on gardening 'It wasn't like this before using this box of destruction! 'This is my first post on here and some help or advice would be appreciated. What should I do now.' Thankfully the gardening fan had some words of advice to save the day - and said that Westland Triple Care, which is £10 on Amazon, did actually work for her. They explained that it is aerating that 'does that' to lawns, but you need to 'water at least half an hour a day after using the seeds' to revive it. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous She explained the same thing had happened to her, and said: 'Mine was aerated. I was gutted, cried for a week. 'I waited till it was warmer as done in March, then I seeded, used two large boxes as did back and front. The four easy steps to get your tired lawn lush for summer & you don't need to worry about pigeons ruining it either 'I put the sprinkler on every morning at 7 o clock and every evening at 9 o clock. 'Once you get all the dead stuff up, sprinkle more, see and wait. Advertisement 'Mine took 6 weeks of true dedication. 'I watered whether it rained or not as lawns are dry as a bone two inch down. 'All is not lost, good luck.' 4 She claimed watering your lawn every day with the seeds will get super green grass Credit: Getty Advertisement The upset gardener thanked her for her help and said he would 'water, water, water' his grass. The Westland Triple Care lawn feed is said to 'nourish your grass but also tackle weeds and moss head-on.' It is said to create 'a strong and healthy lawn', with greening visible within seven days - if used between the months of February and October. Royal gardener Jack Stook's top tips for green lawns JACK, who has worked at King Charles' Highgrove House for 20 years, shares his top tips.. Scarify the lawn with a rake to remove any old leaves and moss Add nitrogen fertiliser into the soil Alternatively, put granular feed over the lawn, or a 'plant soup' from plant material over the lawn
Elle
04-06-2025
- Health
- Elle
The 10 Best Hair Growth Serums for Thicker, Fuller Hair
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Dealing with thinning hair is extremely lonely at times. When everyone else seems to have luscious, thick hair, finding clumps of hair in your drain at the end of every shower can feel discouraging and trigger the question, 'Why me?' If it helps, it's much more common than you might believe—in fact, more than 50 percent of women encounter hair loss at some point in their lives. Now more than ever, there are a slew of medications and products on the market that can help combat thinning, like the best masks for hair growth and hair growth devices. However, hair growth serums are one of the best ways to make your hair grow faster and thicker. Hair growth serums incorporate active ingredients that encourage hair thickening. One of the most effective ingredients is minoxidil, which Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist based in NYC and the founder of MGSkinLabs, reports is the only topical FDA-approved ingredient proven to be able to stimulate new growth. 'Backed by decades of clinical research, it works by increasing hair follicle size and stimulating the anagen, or growth phase, of the hair cycle. For the best results, they can be used in conjunction with other methods, such as platelet-rich plasma injections and oral medications,' she says. Still, Dr. Green emphasizes that the efficacy of minoxidil-based hair serums depends on the other ingredients added to the formula. There's also a host of other hair growth serums that employ different growth-triggering ingredients, like peptides, plant stem cells, and rosemary. 'They're all rich in antioxidants and can stimulate the scalp, increasing blood flow and promoting healthy growth,' explains trichologist and founder of Act+Acre, Helen Reveay. If minoxidil isn't for you, these formulas can act as an effective alternative. In our search for top options, we spoke to experts, trialed some formulas ourselves, and pored over customer reviews. Below, you can find the result—a list of the 10 best hair growth serums to restore your hair to its former glory. In this top-rated formula, a blend of caffeine and peptides work to boost circulation and promote healthy hair growth. This serum also features anti-inflammatory castor oil and arginine, which one study found helped limit hair loss and encourage hair growth when applied topically with zinc. Priced at just $13, it's also one of the most affordable hair growth serums available. Key ingredients: Caffeine, peptides, castor oil, arginine Hair Type: All Size: 1–2 fl. oz. How to use: Apply a few drops or as needed directly to the scalp. Use daily, ideally at bedtime, on clean, dry hair. Massage in thoroughly and do not rinse. Ulta rating: 4.1/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'I discovered this serum during the height of the pandemic. Hair loss was not new to me, but stress (and possibly a bout of Covid) led to so much shedding that I was seeing more and more of my scalp each day. As my part widened, I purchased the product in a panic, and I thankfully saw immediate results. The day after application, my remaining hair looked more voluminous, camouflaging how much of my scalp was now bare. Within weeks, even my mom noted how many baby hairs had sprouted all over my head. I fully credit this formula with nursing my scalp and hair back to health.' —Carol Lee, associate beauty e-commerce writer Exosomes are one of the buzziest ingredients in the skin care world these days. If you don't know what they are, they're basically molecules that deliver messages to cells, influencing their activity. In this serum, the featured exosomes help strengthen and thicken strands, encourage volume, and trigger hair growth for a thicker and longer mane. The formula also incorporates other ingredients used for hair growth, such as biotin and rosemary leaf extract. Key ingredients: Garlic vesicles, wheat peptide, niacinamide, glycerin, propanediol, rosemary leaf extract, BiotinoylTripeptide-1, panthenol, biotin Size: 2.03 fl. oz. How to use: Apply 1 ml of serum to scalp when hair is damp or dry. Massage into scalp. Do not rinse. Use daily. SickScience rating: 5/5 stars A SickScience reviewer says: 'We are very happy and impressed—the thin hair over the forehead of my husband looks more abundant and nicer!' When it comes to the all-time best hair growth products, few brands are more revered in the space than Rogaine. 'It offers over-the-counter solution and foam formulations with two percent or five percent minoxidil,' says Dr. Green. 'The product's FDA-approval, accessibility, and efficacy backed by clinical research—combined with its high user satisfaction—make it the most popular hair growth serum on the market.' Grab it in a three-month supply on Amazon, complete with free Prime shipping. Key ingredient: Minoxidil Size: 2 fl. oz, pack of 3 bottles How to use: Apply one millimeter two times daily on the scalp where there is hair loss. Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: 'I had extensions put in for my wedding that damaged my hair at the crown and caused severe follicle damage. I've tried vitamins and masks with little success, but this product made a world of difference. My hair is growing back thicker and faster than it did before.' 'My absolute favorite hair growth serum is our Stem Cell serum,' says Reveay. 'It harnesses the power of plant cell culture technology, utilizing two percent Swiss apple stem cells that are clinically proven to promote and extend the hair's natural growth phase while soothing and hydrating the scalp.' Moreover, the formula features aloe vera, bamboo, and pea extract that 'work together to reduce the production of free radicals responsible for the premature aging of hair follicles,' she adds. As an extra perk, a handful of reviewers mention they experienced a boost in volume when using this serum consistently. Key ingredients: Swiss apple stem cells, aloe vera, bamboo, pea extract Size: 2.19 fl. oz. How to use: Apply one to two pipettes on clean, damp, or dry hair along the hairline. Massage into your scalp evenly. Do not rinse. Use daily. Act + Acre rating: 4.7/5 stars An Act + Acre reviewer says: 'This product does what it says. I have been dealing with terrible itchy, flakey, irritated scalp for months and have been trying to improve my hair health to regrow postpartum hair loss. This product has already made an immediate improvement with just a month of use. I will continue to use these and feel the difference!' Reveay calls this another great option, as it 'contains Buddleja Davidii plant stem cells and dynagen, which help to reproduce hair follicle cells at the source and increase the hair's keratin and collagen levels,' she says. According to the haircare brand, the formula is vegan, cruelty-free, and devoid of harsh sulfates and parabens. Key ingredients: Buddleja Davidii plant stem cells, dynagen Size: 3.38 fl. oz. How to use: Apply directly to the scalp on wet or dry hair directly after washing and conditioning. Holistic Chair Tribe rating: 5/5 stars A Holistic Chair Tribe reviewer says: 'After dealing with hair loss for so many years, I was shocked to see results so fast with this amazing products. I totally recommend. I use with the Micro -stimulating hair bath for better results.' 'Saw palmetto is a botanical extract that has been used by Native Americans as medicine for hundreds of years,' says Dr. Green. 'It features antiandrogenic properties that have been shown to improve hair growth in those experiencing androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium (or temporary hair loss caused by stress).' Although commonly found in hair growth serums and supplements, Dr. Green says it's still important to note that 'extensive clinical studies are needed to prove its efficacy and safety in long-term use.' This top-rated formula features saw palmetto and a range of other natural oils, like moringa oil for hydration and rosemary oil to help stimulate hair growth further. Since this product is oil-based, it should be washed out of hair following application. Key ingredients: Saw palmetto, rosemary oil, moringa oil Hair Type: Dry, brittle, thinning Size: 1 fl. oz. How to use: Apply two to three drops to the scalp in affected areas and gently massage in. Leave on overnight or a minimum of 30 minutes before showering. Apply two to four times per week. Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: 'I've tried so many things for hair thinning and shedding throughout the years, but had no significant results after months of use. This is the first product I've used that gives me hope. I just started using this product a few days ago, and I already notice at least a 75 percent reduction in shedding. The hairs at the crown of my head are already feeling thicker, and I had a long-standing sore sensation at the crown of my head that is starting to subside. This stuff is magic! I'm excited about the progress I'll see in a few weeks/months.' When you have naturally fine, thin hair, shedding is the last thing you want added to the equation. But this serum from popular vegan haircare brand Vegamour is made to help. The serum is powered by turmeric and red leaf clover, two anti-inflammatory ingredients that block DHT production that can lead to hair loss. It also contains mung bean, which features copper, which could potentially help enlarge the hair follicle and improve hair growth. In clinical studies, 52 percent of subjects who used this product experienced an increase in the appearance of hair density, while 76 percent saw less hair shedding. Key ingredients: Turmeric, red leaf clover, mung bean How to use: Part dry hair into sections and massage the serum into your scalp for one to two minutes. Leave on your scalp for five to 10 minutes then follow with shampoo and conditioner. Use once a week for best results. Vegamour rating: 4.4/5 stars A Vegamour reviewer says: 'I've gotten compliments from my hairdressers and co-workers after using this for almost two months now, so I know this miracle serum works! My hair is fine and tends to break, and I'm noticing baby fine hair growing back where I had patches. I was seriously contemplating purchasing a wig but decided to try this product first, and I'm glad I did.' Curly-haired girls, unite! Since curly locks tend to be dryer and more prone to breakage, you'll want to look for a hair growth serum that's particularly nourishing. This one from Pura D'or has a range of ingredients—such as apple stem cells, rosemary oil, and biotin—to stimulate the scalp, alongside argan oil and sacha inchi seed oil to deeply hydrate from root to tip and promote shine. Key ingredients: Apple stem cells, rosemary, biotin, argan oil, sacha inchi seed oil Size: 4 fl. oz. How to use: Apply daily on damp or dry hair. Lift hair in sections to spray directly onto scalp, and massage. Do not rinse. An Amazon reviewer says: 'This serum is growing back my edges! I have tried other products with little or no results. This took about three weeks to see progress with hair coming back where there was none. Now my hair line is filling in, and the hair is getting longer and thicker after a couple months of ever day use. The smell is nice and the serum leaves my hair soft with a nice sheen. Have ordered my second bottle don't want to be without this product!' Instead of using minoxidil, this hair serum includes ashwagandha exosomes, which 'can increase cell renewal and protect the scalp from environmental stress,' says Dr. Green. Additionally, it contains antioxidant-rich pea sprouts and green tea to protect against free radicals and sea buckthorn to revive and smooth damaged tresses. 'Daily and consistent use of this serum can help minimize breakage, nourish, and hydrate the scalp to maintain scalp health, and improve hair quality and thickness,' she adds. Key ingredients: Ashwagandha exosomes, green tea, pea extracts Size: 1.7 fl. oz. How to use: Section the hair with the dropper tip and apply the serum directly to your scalp, using enough serum to lightly cover the areas of concern. Massage with your fingertips. Do not rinse. Use daily. Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars An Amazon reviewer says: 'This product does what it says. I have been dealing with terrible itchy, flakey, irritated scalp for months and am trying to improve my hair health to regrow postpartum hair loss. These products have already made an immediate improvement with just a month of use.' SpoiledChild's hair growth serum features three hardworking ingredients: biotin to strengthen strands, niacinamide to support hair health, and caffeine to stimulate the scalp. The formula absorbs quickly, so it doesn't leave a gunky residue that you can feel long after application. Reviewers love it for the fast results it provides as well as its ability to noticeably minimize shedding. Key ingredients: Biotin, niacinamide, caffeine How to use: Shake the bottle. Apply 6–8 sprays onto scalp when hair is damp or wet. Massage into skin for about one minute. Do not rinse. Use daily. SpoiledChild rating: 4.4/5 stars A SpoiledChild reviewer says:'I have always had pretty thin hair but noticed it had gotten thinner over the past years to [the] point where I looked like I was balding. It's only been 30 days since using this product, and I do feel like I'm seeing a difference! The back of my head, where it used to just look bald, looks like I have hair growing now, and I actually also have baby hairs coming out in the front.' 'So many factors can contribute to hair loss, such as age, stress levels, diet, illness, hormonal imbalances, or even product buildup,' says Reveay. 'It's key to distinguish what type of hair loss you are experiencing, as methods of treatment and prevention can vary widely. Hair loss transpires three to six months after a trigger has occurred, so think back and ask yourself questions like, 'Were you going through something stressful or experiencing changes in your diet?'' she adds. 'Always consult with your doctor and get blood work done to see what's going on.' While there are many different types of hair loss, Dr. Green says some of the most common include androgenetic alopecia, traction alopecia, telogen effluvium, trichotillomania, and alopecia areata. For one, consider options with finasteride, says Dr. Green. 'It's an FDA-approved oral medication for hair loss that works by inhibiting the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT—aka the male sex hormone that causes hair loss in both men and women. Recent studies have shown that topical finasteride is just as effective as oral finasteride. A major benefit of topical finasteride is that it is a localized treatment at a lower dosage, which decreases the risk of systemic side effects,' she adds. Also, it's important to steer clear of serums featuring ingredients that 'strip the scalp or act as an abrasive, such as alcohols, fragrances, silicones, or sulfates,' Reveay notes. 'Consistent use of hair growth serums, Rogaine, or topical minoxidil/finasteride is key in hair growth, and the results can take up to four to six months,' says Dr. Green. 'Results typically show the growth of new baby hairs, a decrease in hair shedding, and potential thickening of the hair.''Alternatively, a popular in-office treatment for promoting and maintaining scalp health is HydraFacial Keravive, which stimulates circulation, deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and nourishes the scalp,' adds Dr. Green. Helen Reveay is a hairstylist, certified trichologist, and the founder and creative director of Act+Acre. Dr. Michele Green is board-certified, cosmetic dermatologist based in NYC and the founder of MGSkinLabs. As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, writers spoke with numerous trusted hair experts to learn the benefits of hair growth serums.
Eater
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Eater
Where to Eat and Pick the Best Peaches in Texas Hill Country
Georgia might be known as the 'Peach State,' but Texas holds its own when it comes to this luscious, juicy fruit. Weatherford in Parker County, just outside of Fort Worth, is the largest producer of peaches in the state. But Hill Country — especially Fredericksburg in Gillespie County — is where the summer peach frenzy peaks, and right now, we're in the thick of it. From mid-May to late June, the city is brimming with sweet peaches that locals and tourists can't wait to sink their teeth into. Here's where to indulge in peaches in Hill Country this summer, including at a pick-your-own vineyard, stands with ample desserts, and one of the town's newest indulgences — peach wine. Peach Jamboree and Rodeo 250 Peach Street in Stonewall Gates open at 6 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, June 19 to 21 Tickets are available online for $25 to $40. Kids 12 and under are free. Every year during the third week in June, Stonewall, Texas, goes all out for peaches. The Stonewall Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Peach Jamboree and Rodeo, featuring two family-friendly days of live music, rodeo events, a peach show and peach auction, a peach patch for kids to go picking, pageants, a Saturday morning parade, and plenty of food, including peach ice cream and peach cobbler. Don't miss the peach contests inviting residents to enter their baking, preserves, and salsas to be judged on Saturday. Activities can get messy, with goat roping, mutton-busting, washer pitching tournaments, and a peach-eating and pit-spitting contest. Jenschke Cellars 8309 US-290, Fredericksburg This family-owned Fredericksburg orchard, which began as a humble roadside stand, is now one of the largest peach orchards in town, with over 200 acres and more than 25 varieties grown. Jenschke is the only producer in Fredericksburg that allows visitors to pick their own peaches, and the process can be a little intense due to the high demand. To organize the chaos of such a popular activity, Jenske offers $5 tickets online, which reserve a spot for peach-picking between 9 a.m. and noon. The date is never set (co-owner Lindsey Jenschke says her husband says 'the trees tell me when'), but the prices of peaches are always at $2.50 a pound. Tractors run to help transport people to the trees in the heat. And if you work up an appetite, you don't have to eat the fruits of your labor. On-site restaurant Leroy Tex-Mex Barbecue offers nachos, tacos, and margaritas. The orchard also opened a tasting room in September 2024, featuring wines from grapes grown in Lubbock, including a peach wine that pairs well with smoky barbecue. Das Peach Haus at the Fischer & Wieser Farmstead 1406 South US Highway 87, Fredericksburg At this sprawling farmstead, it all started with a small peach orchard that German immigrant J.B. Wieser planted in 1928. Nearly a century later, his son Mark Wieser is keeping the legacy going with the region's first permanent roadside fruit stand, which he built from an 1870s German log cabin, and a noteworthy partnership with co-owner Casey Fisher that has yielded more than 150 handmade specialty products. Stop in at Das Peach Haus's charming shop for peaches and condiments, including its iconic signature roasted raspberry sauce, jams, jellies, preserves, and wines, including a few peach-flavored varieties. Vogel Orchard 12862 US-290, Fredericksburg More than 20 varieties of peaches abound at this roadside stand and orchard, including Starlit White, Spring Gold, Regal, White Fresh, and Southern Pearl. Vogel has 100 acres of peaches and sells an estimated 300,000 pounds each year. Stop at its roadside stand, which sells tons of peach-filled foods, including peach cobbler, peach butter ice cream, peach preserves, peach butter, and peach goat milk lotion that will make you smell like a peach milkshake. Visitors can also get produce and products outside of the peach realm, including plums, blackberries, and figs to make the sweetest preserves, plus tomatoes, okra, and squash. Check its Instagram and Facebook pages for updates. Burg's Corner 15194 US-290, Stonewall After losing its entire crop in 2024, Burg's made lemonade out of lemons — or rather, peach wine, out of 'ugly peaches.' It used the remaining awkward-looking peaches to create its own version of that liquid gold known as peach wine, which is now on sale in the shop. Peach lovers can also stop in for an abundance of peaches and related products, including preserves, peach ice cream, and sundaes topped with fresh peaches. Related Fruit Preserves Are for More Than Breakfast Sign up for our newsletter.
Buzz Feed
20-04-2025
- General
- Buzz Feed
34 Products To Buy For Your Yard Now That You Don't Have To Spend Your Time Cooped Up Inside
1. A handy-dandy Grampa's Weeder to make quick work of those unsightly plants all over your backyard standing in the way of you finally hitting send on those outdoor barbecue invite texts. Now you can clean up your yard without having to bend, pull, and kneel — just step, twist, and goodbye, weeds! Hello, Aunt Karen's famous springtime pasta salad! Amazon Grampa's Weeder is a family-owned small biz that sells tools to make weeding easier! 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 Get it from Amazon for $39.97. 2. And on the topic of making your not-so-pretty-at-the-moment yard look presentable — a dog-spot repair solution. You took the easy way out of walking the pups this past winter by letting them do alllll their business in the backyard, and now you're paying the not for long! Thanks to a combo of mulch, seed, and soil amendment, your yard will look like a luscious green field rather than patches of dirt in no time. First, prep the area by removing dead grass and loosening hard soil. Next, apply the EZ Seed so that the area is mostly covered but bare ground is still visible. Step three is to water thoroughly! Promising review: "I used this in the spring to fill out our lawn more, and it worked great! I was worried because I feel like you always hear grass seed horror stories, but I just raked our lawn good, spread seeds all over, and watered it once (sometimes twice) per day, and it filled the lawn in beautifully!" — Mariah Get it from Amazon for $16.44. 3. A set of outdoor string lights that'll transform your porch, patio, or backyard into a magical, peaceful oasis. Don't be surprised when your home suddenly becomes the spot the group wants to spend all their time at this summer. It's not your fault you have the ability to curate flawless vibes upon vibes upon VIBES! Promising review:"These transformed my backyard! I bought two 50-foot strands and have them stretched across two decent-sized patio areas. The light is gorgeous and romantic and bright enough to not need other lights at night. We put them up in early October to enjoy the last bit of fall and they have survived through rain and frost so far without breaking. The glass is very thin, but it's also very light, so they seem to hold up pretty well. I will probably order more!" — Shannon H. Get them from Amazon for $23.19+ (available in three colors and five sizes). 4. An electric mosquito repellent because bug bite szn seems to go from 0–100 REAL QUICK every year. This handy gadget creates a 15-foot zone of mosquito protection, so get ahead of the curve this year and let those little bloodsuckers know they are NOT welcome to your outdoor hangs. Promising review:"I bought this because I was looking for an effective insect repellant for my patio this spring/summer. I didn't want a bulky candle or tiki torch that smelled like canola oil. I found the Thermacell. It looked modern and promising. We tried it, and it works really well. It also produces no smell or sound. We live in the South, where mosquitoes are really awful, and the Thermacell made sitting on our patio tolerable! Definitely recommend." — Trusted Customer Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in 10 colors and packs of two). 5. Or a bug zapper that provides 1 acre of coverage and not just from mosquitoes, but from other types of bugs as well such as flies, gnats, moths, and beetles! Nothing ruins the outdoor barbecue vibes quite like some pesky insects showing up uninvited. Promising review: "It zapped all kinds of bugs, which made it so much easier to play around the pool and the yard in the evenings, especially when friends and family were over. I highly recommend it." — Donna Get it from Amazon for $69.99. 6. An electric pressure washer if your home and patio look like they've been put through the WRINGER this past winter (TBH, same). The thought of hosting outdoor activities when your house currently resembles a pig who just wallowed around in the mud can be kinda daunting. Thankfully, this fan-fave machine provides a powerful clean minus the elbow grease. Heck ya! Promising review:"Great product at a good price. Used this power washer to wash my stucco house for pre painting. Unit worked as advertised. Fairly quiet, but yet powerful sprayer. Great customer service and would highly recommend this product to anyone." — Boy Wonder CTS Get it from Amazon for $299. 7. A set of oil-absorbing sponges that suck up scum, grime, and other yuckiness that's accumulated in your pool with minimal effort required on your part. Before you know it, the pool cover will be coming off and the pool volleyball games will commence. Get ready to clean it in the spring and then easily maintain that cleanliness through the summer! Promising review:"Scummy water bugging you? I just got this gem of a product last night. Popped it into my hot tub, and from the picture I attached, you can see that in just about 12 hours, this little Scumbug ate up all the oil and filth in the hot tub. The water not only looks better but smells better, too! Highly recommended!" — Mickey D. Get a two-pack from Amazon for $13. 8. And if you don't have a pool but you're dreaming of sitting in one all summer, this inflatable lounge pool will do the trick. Ahhh, the benefits of not having to pay someone to take off a pool cover or do all the extensive tasks pool owners typically have to do. Just inflate, fill, and relax! It's also got a bench and cup holders! Promising review:"I have had this pool for about two weeks now, and I LOVE IT!!! It was simple to set up. I got a little electric pump, and it took about 10 minutes to inflate and then about half an hour to fill with water. Pay attention to making sure you set it up on level ground, or it will be lopsided. I live in South Carolina, so it is already hot and humid, and I use it about every afternoon. It is probably good for two adults, maybe one adult, and a couple of kids. The built-in seat and headrest are really quite comfy and relaxing. I will definitely buy this same pool again if it springs a leak and can't be fixed, if I could give it a 10 stars I would. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!!!" — kathryn j. Get it from Amazon for $45.59. 9. Plus, a giant inflatable unicorn bound to become your new seasonal bestie. Spring/summer 2025 ins and outs are as follows — Out: Asking your friends if they wanna play mermaids. In: A party for two featuring you and this magical fella sailing around the pool like the royalty you are. Promising review:"This floaty is huge! It's big enough for an adult to lie on and not even touch the water. It doesn't have a hole in the middle, so it's super comfortable. My friend's 5-year-old daughter loved it too! I've had it for over a month now, used several times with no issues at all." — Kelsey Get it from Amazon for $31.99. 10. Andddd a set of inflatable flamingo drink holders for when you do want to enjoy the pool with your friends and family (and of course, some cold drinks). These adorable lil' cuties will help keep your drinks nice and secure when you're in the pool. While a colorful swimming pool sounds nice in theory, you don't really want to achieve that via a spilled frozen strawberry margarita, now do you?! Promising review:"A wonderful gag and very useful. Cans of soda or beer fit in wonderfully — bottles work after you drink about half of the content, or they will tip over. We're debating how to personalize these so each person knows which one holds their particular drink." — JJ Hall Get a pack of three from Amazon for $7.99 (available in eight other styles). 11. A sleek outdoor tray table that's as functional as it is stylish. Not only does it give you the perfect spot for drinks and snacks, but the removable top reveals hidden storage inside, perfect for stashing cushions, blankets, or outdoor essentials. And, thanks to an all-weather design, you won't have to rush to bring it inside every time it rains! Amazon, Promising review: "I LOVE these storage tables! I was able to get all of our pool supplies out of the closet and organized with them! They look like nice wood boxes, but they have durability and weather resistance. They were very easy to put together, and the sliding top is nice. We have had some rain. I was wondering if they would keep the water out, and to my surprise, they did their job well! This was a very good purchase. I highly recommend!" — Christy Get it from Amazon for $79.99 (available in two colors). 12. A set of magnetic barbecue lights because — whoops! — you forgot about dinner, and now it's getting dark. Have your perfectly cooked burger while still enjoying late-night swims and after-hours games, thanks to these super bright post-playtime burgers are the best kind of burgers Promising review:"Just bought a new grill and needed some decent lighting since most of my meals are done at night. These two lights attach only to the lid of my grill because the side tables aren't magnetic, but the flex necks make the lighting very versatile. The light is bright and illuminates the grill well. The color of the light is good, too. I'm very pleased so far. Seems durable. I plan on keeping it in its storage when not in use and hope to get plenty of use out of it." — Ryan Smith Get a pack of two from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in two colors). 13. And on the topic of grilling, these grill mats are a MUST for the return of barbecue season!! These useful mats help catch remnants from your yummy burgers, steaks, and kabobs and prevent them from adhering to the grill plate. Now, you can devote extra time to actually enjoying a nice meal and relaxing evening with your guests instead of scrubbing down a burnt-on mess. These are dishwasher-safe! Promising review:"This product makes grilling and cleanup so amazingly easy that I now have the newfound confidence to grill more. I'm a vegetarian so I grill lots of veggies, tofu, and other vegan treats that require the use of a grilling mat." — V. Thompson Get a pack of six from Amazon for $9.99 (available in two colors and a set of eight). 14. And you'll also wanna stock up on some grill cleaner just in case you're a messy chef and can use some extra reinforcement on hand. It would kinda stink (both literally and metaphorically) to accidentally leave burnt-on bits of meat between grilling sessions and then have to deal with the yuckiness that could result from that (helllooooo hungry bugs). Promising review:"This stuff works fantastic to remove that sticky goop left over when smoking a brisket for 15 hours. Spray it on, let it sit for a few, use a limestone block to scrub, and rinse with a hose outside. I haven't found anything better for anywhere near the price, either. I have tried over a dozen different things, and this is now my go-to product." — GlocksNdonuts Get it from Amazon for $5.92. 15. A giant connect-four-in-a-row game because in a world of a million options for streaming shows and playing video games, getting the whole fam to actually enjoy the backyard can feel like a chore. Thankfully, this fun game won't require any convincing. Plus, a little healthy competition builds character! Amazon, Promising review:"Best purchase! We bought it for the kids but my husband and I stayed up until 1 a.m. playing!! It was a hit at our party! Great quality. Yes, you can hit the bar and release the discs, but it hasn't happened to us, and it wouldn't be a big deal if it did! Totally worth it! So glad we got it!!" — Rechel B Get it from Amazon for $149 (also available in a smaller size). 16. A cordless electric lawn mower that'll make your yard the envy of the neighborhood without breaking a sweat. It's lightweight, eco-friendly, and way easier to handle than a gas-powered one — plus, no more dealing with tangled cords or refueling! Promising review:"If this is how easy the electric cars will be, then sign me up. No more going to the gas stations, no struggling to get the lawn mower out of the shed, no more waking up the neighbors — I should get a discount. All my neighbors love it. Even the postman took time to take a look." — Jazzin Sykes Get it from Amazon for $209.99+ (available in four styles). 17. A water hose holder because if there's one thing we can guarantee, it's that this gorg pot looks a heck of a lot nicer than whatever other storage method you currently have for your water hose. And in case you forgot, your water hose actually gets a lot of use in the warmer months — from connecting it to a pressure washer to watering trees and plants, to filling up pools, or just spraying your unsuspecting family member when they least expect it. Such a silly goose you are!!! Promising review:"It is a wonderful product! It is the second one we have purchased! One for the backyard and the front of the house! It's pretty, sturdy, and the hose fits well in the bowl! It should last for years!" — patricia mercilliott Get it from Amazon for $104.96. 18. A cottage playhouse that'll have your littlest kiddos itching to play outside every chance they can. They're gonna love using their imagination in their charming new "second home" and you're gonna love that they peeled their eyes away from the iPad long enough to get some fresh air. A win-win!!!! Promising review:"SO cute. My husband and I assembled it together in about 20 minutes or so, and was pretty self-explanatory. The kids climb on top of it (even though would not recommend to make it last) and it's held up great. My favorite part is the colors, it looks great in my yard while giving them a fun place to play." — GB Get it from Amazon for $119.99+ (available in three colors). 19. An adorable little set of colorful flower pots for a lovely way to display some pretty flora. No matter how you feel about gardening, I think we can all agree that pretty flowers in your yard just instantly liven the mood. And when they're being held in a rainbow of lil' pots?! Hello, serotonin boost!!! Promising review:"I love these. They look great on my little patio. They are very well made and super easy to put together. They drain well and hold a fair amount of flowers and soil for the size. I found them to be sturdy and they seem pretty durable. It's a really good value for the price, too. I highly recommend!" — Anonymous Get a set of 10 from Amazon for $18.59 (available in three color combos and two sizes). 20. A patio firepit because bonfires are one of the absolute best parts of the season — I mean, is there anything more comforting than sitting around a warm light with your loved ones and roasting marshmallows to make s'mores?! No, there is not. Case closed. Hope you're hitting the purchase button as we speak. Promising review:"We just received our Tiki firepit, and I was immediately impressed with the quality of the craftsmanship. We have been looking for a firepit for our patio, and this one is perfect! The black exterior and copper-colored lining are gorgeous, and I love that it can use pellets or wood logs. It is a nice size, and there was nearly no assembly. The low smoke design and ash pan for easy cleanup was an unexpected bonus. This definitely exceeded our expectations." — Shari Bitterman Get it from Amazon for $229.35+ (available in three styles). 21. Plus, a mystical flame colorant that'll take your bonfire game to the next level — why would you want to settle for just orange flames when you can sit around some beautiful RAINBOW flames?! The future is here and it's colorful as heck, ppl!!! If you plan to make s'mores or cook any food over a flame, do that before you use this product. Promising review:"Had the packets for a camping season. The packets exceeded my expectations! Very easy to use. Just put one in the fire! Biggest surprise was the longevity of how long the color lasted and the range and brightness of the colors. Best for medium fires to enjoy the full richness. Even lasted adding more wood. Just remember to add it AFTER cooking food, hotdogs and marshmallows as you do not want the chemicals in your food." — Dad to kids Get six packets from Amazon for $6.94. 22. A tabletop glass fireplace that serves as a smaller (and more affordable) option to traditional firepits. This thing may be smol, but the coziness vibes are MIGHTY! Imagine how nice it'll be to whip this bb out at the table post-finishing a BBQ dinner for some toasted 'mallow fun!! You can order this with or without the sand and rocks. The only things you'll need to purchase separately are the 2.6-ounce gel fuel cans, which you can get from Amazon. 1Man1Garage is a Nashville-based small biz making gorgeous crafts, gifts, and homewares. Promising review:"Soooo cute and easy to put together. We bought a clear spray to put on to protect it and because we actually really liked the look of the burned side. Boyfriend and I bought it to make s'mores for Valentine's. It was a perfect night in." — Bethany Schneider Get it from 1Man1Garage on Etsy for $21.70+ (available in four styles). 23. An instant stain remover spray for restoring the furniture items that have sat out all fall/winter back to mint condition. Is it annoying to have to do a thorough clean of your Adirondack chairs? Sure. But think about how much more annoying it would have to be to lug them all into storage at the end of each summer. It's a small, but simple trade off! Promising review: "I have a small three-tier water fountain on my the birds in the community have come to rely upon it for drinking and bathing. I literally sprayed this product and walked away. I actually left it on overnight because I got busy with other tasks. When I checked back all of the mold was gone, everything, with no damage to the painted stucco wall or cement and no scrubbing. Literally spray and leave." — Mark Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in four sizes and multipacks). 24. A hammock because you've spent the past six months making your way through your TBR list from the same reading chair in your living room — it's time for a change of scenery, and swinging between the trees is just the place to continue your 2025 Goodreads challenge. Be warned: After lying in this thing once, you're never gonna wanna leave. It holds up to 772 pounds! Promising review:"Love the hammock. Very easy to put up, and I love the mesh. I'm planning on using it all summer. It's a little tight for my boyfriend and me. You need to be comfortable with the person you're sharing with. LOL. But definitely worth the price." — Shelsea Rivera Get it from Amazon for $21.97 (available in black or green). 25. A mini projector for all you smart cookies out there who KNOW an outdoor movie night/sing-along to Wicked would be a dream come true. All you have to do now is assign your fellow Shiz students to wear green or pink, get the movie snacks ready, and rehearse your "Defying Gravity" riff! Promising review:"We purchased this projector as a family Christmas gift and have really enjoyed it. It is easy to use and move around, so we have used the projector with a screen indoors and outdoors, and it also works well projecting onto walls. This has allowed us to create fun movie night experiences with our kids. My husband also uses the projector to stream Peloton workouts onto a big screen, so it feels like he has a private instructor in the room. Additionally, the customer service is excellent. We mistakenly broke the power cord, and they've been quick to respond and help us obtain a replacement." — Nicole O'Shaughnessy Get it from Amazon for $67.99+ (available in three styles). 26. And if you need a good spot to project said movie, then you should also get this large projection screen! Ya know, there's a good chance that your loved ones might cancel their AMC Stubs memberships and try paying you for endless movie nights instead. All you need now is for Nicole Kidman to come to your house to film an ad. The screen is 120-inches and made of an anti-crease material. It also comes with brackets and ropes for mounting purposes. Promising review:"This screen is perfect for our use. We bought it for outdoor movie nights whether being on the garage door, in the backyard, camping, or inside the garage. It's very easy to install with no wrinkles and shows a great picture. I've attached pictures that show how well I can still see the picture despite being surrounded by 7,000 Christmas lights in close vicinity." — Hallie H Get it from Amazon for $23.99. 27. A pack of solar lights because making it through a dreadful winter followed by a "six more weeks of winter" announcement from Punxsutawney Phil finally calls for celebrating with your guests in the form of outdoor gatherings late into the night. Last time I checked, the sun doesn't determine when your party ends — YOU DO!! Promising review: "I purchased these to cover the side of my house. Installation was easy, and I left them outside for two days to charge. The light coverage was about what I expected from them and do the job well. The motion sensitivity covers all the sides [of my house] and the lights turn on. It has rained about three times and they still work great. I'm hoping they last for a long time." — J. Argueta Get a set of four from Amazon for $29.99. 28. A bistro furniture set that features a table and two chairs that are perfect for setting up on your patio, apartment balcony, or porch! This is a great spot to enjoy your lunch break, a morning cup of coffee, or to power through some work while absorbing that sweet vitamin D. Best of all, it folds up easily if you're working with limited outdoor space or just want to store it away between uses! Promising review:"I'm in love! My patio has undergone several transformations over the past few months, but lately, I've become completely obsessed with the charm of a Parisian-style balcony. I truly believe this is exactly the aesthetic I've been craving for my space. Not only is this set sturdy and easy to assemble, but it also looks absolutely stunning! Although my space is still under construction, it's the perfect addition, creating the romantic, calming atmosphere I've been searching for." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $99.99+ (available in six colors and with or without cushions). 29. A set of Crayola washable sidewalk chalk kiddos and adults will love equal amounts! Kiddos will love using them to channel their creativity on the pavement, and adults will love how easy it is to clean post playtime. OK, fine, adults who are kids at heart will also love drawing with these. Also! They come packaged just like Crayola crayons. How fun! Promising review:"The kids were so excited when this arrived. The chalk is great, and there are eight sticks that come with 'special effects' such as tie-dye or glitter. The box is nice to keep them all in one place. It's very much like the Crayola 64 count of crayons but in chalk form! We recommend!" — Melissa M. Get a set of 64 from Amazon for $14.99. 30. A set of lounge chairs you can enjoy in your own yard or bring on the go to the park or the beach. Whether you're enjoying a good book in the sunshine or headed to your kiddo's soccer game, you're gonna get your money's worth out of these chairs in no time at all! Promising review:"Just opened them and love them!! I was expecting cheap material since they're much less expensive than any other zero-gravity chair I've seen. But they look and feel like very nice quality!! Very comfortable reclined position, and the headrest is easy to adjust. Also, the locking mechanism is very easy to use. Not to mention they fold down flat and are light to carry!! We'll be packing these in our car for beach vacations. I will order more of these as gifts for friends and family. Oh, and I really liked that they were 100% ready when they arrived in the mail. Not a single bit of assembling required." — Miranda Get them from Amazon for $74.42+ (available in three colors). 31. An outdoor area rug that'll be the star of the show of your backyard. If you've been searching high and low for an easy way to add a boost of fun/color without needing to assemble anything or replace your patio furniture, this rug does the trick! Its eye-catching pattern and colors will earn you at least a million compliments!!! Promising review: "This rug is the perfect addition to our backyard oasis! It is comfortable and durable, and the colors are great. I have gotten so many compliments on it in the month that we've owned it. It completed our backyard deck area perfectly and the colors are just great." — CandidlyCady Get it from Amazon for $21.45+ (available in 20 sizes and 15 designs). 32. Kan Jam — a game you can bet is truly gonna be the hit at all of your outdoor gatherings this spring and summer. People of all ages will love it, and it may even bring out a competitive side from your fam members who you didn't even know had a competitive side. All right, Aunt Sally — we see you!!! My brother and I grew up playing this game a lot at the camp we used to work at as teenagers, and during quarantine in 2020, we decided it would be a good idea to get this so the whole fam could play when it was nice outside. It's a huge hit in my family, especially because my brother and I are VERY competitive which makes the game that much more exciting! Promising review:"This is a ridiculously fun and easy lawn game. It's got the strategy of horseshoes with the fun of a team activity. The rules are simple, the equipment is made to last — if you are looking for a semi-active game to bring to the beach, family barbecue, or even company picnic, this is it!" — J. Caldwell 34. A frozen drink maker for whipping up not one, not two, but THREE refreshing cocktails at the same time. A spring/summer full of delicious margaritas, daiquiris, and coladas. 😋 Who has the time, energy, or $$ to leave the house and go to a rooftop bar every time you want a cocktail? Girl, the tariffs. Promising review:"I'll have to give this blender an extra star for the cool factor. We love to have friends over and make frozen drinks. We enjoy watching friends' reactions as the blender automatically shaves the ice, then rotates to the next pitcher, and blends the various drinks. I was also impressed with the blender's looks and construction. No cheap plastic here. It's beautiful and heavy-duty. Well worth the price. It looks great on our counter." — Gerald E. Paradise Jr. Get it from Amazon for $449.99. Reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
