We just got a new puppy — her name is Nelly, and she’s not yet housebroken. That means we’re cleaning up puppy puddles pretty regularly. In the past, that would mean getting out the swiffer or the mop. But the Dreame Aero Pro Steam does a better job more quickly and with less fuss.

It’s not just for those easy little puddles either. The Aero Pro Steam can tackle sticky messes in the kitchen, like the maple syrup and honey I drizzled all over my vinyl plank flooring during testing.

While it’s a pricey unit, the Aero Pro Steam offers tons of versatility and an efficient, quick clean that makes it worthwhile. Plus, the long runtime means you can mop up the whole house, too — which are all the qualities needed in a best vacuum cleaner. Find out what happened when I put it to the test.

Dreame Aero Pro Steam Wet Dry Vacuum review: Price and availability

The Aero Pro Steam costs $600 and is available for purchase now on Dreame’s website. You’ll get free shipping within 2-5 business days of purchase, along with a 30-day return policy. Additionally, Dreame offers a 2-year warranty on the Aero Pro Steam, too.

Dreame Aero Pro Steam Wet Dry Vacuum review: Design

Visually, the Aero Pro Steam closely resembles the standard Aero Pro model. While the latter lacks the steam functionality, this steam-enabled version takes on a slightly more substantial profile, though it remains impressively compact given the added tech.

There are four modes: Smart, Steam, Suction, Turbo, and Eco. If you’re unsure which one to use, simply switch to Smart and let the Aero Pro Steam decide for you. It does not use cleaning fluid, just a clean water tank, and that water gets heated up for cleaning.

I was impressed at how quickly it heated up to 716 degrees Fahrenheit, thanks to the high-power instant boiler. When using the steam mode, that steam is powered through 6 outlets at 300mg/min. The SaunaClean design lends a 392-degree steaming temperature during cleaning.

That’s complemented by 28,000 Pa of suction, which Dreame says is industry-leading. Between those functions, the Aero Pro Steam provides a 100% allergen reduction in the rooms you clean.

To recognize various mess types, the Dreame Aero Pro Steam uses multispectral sensors, which identify gunk and goo through color temperature and brightness. Should hair get wrapped around the roller, the TangleCut 2.0 Resilient Scraper ensures you don’t have to get your hands dirty removing it.

The 3.88-inch Ultra-Slim Body is low-profile enough to get under the furniture or in tough-to-reach spaces. Plus, the Aero Pro Steame also has a 180-degree lay-flat body, so you can lower it all the way to the ground to get well underneath the trickiest chairs in the house. The body also features Triple Edge Coverage, which means the roller cleans all the way to the sides and front of the body.

Once you’re done cleaning, you can put the Aero Pro Steam back on the dock and engage the hands-free self-cleaning function. You can do a 5-minute quick dry of the roller after that, or a 30-minute deep-dry to ensure you get no odors emanating from the unit. The 203-degree hot wash removes all residues, and the steam function gets rid of other messes without hassle and in short order.

You’ll control the unit from the two-button LED display on top of the handle. It’s super easy to use and to navigate between modes. Plus, you can activate or deactivate a voice prompt that lets you know what mode you’re in, too.

Accessory-wise, the Aero Pro Steam comes with a cleaning brush and replacement filter.

Dreame Aero Pro Steam Wet Dry Vacuum review: Performance

The first time I used the Aero Pro Steam, I stuck with the Smart mode and gave the kitchen and living room a scrubbing. Those two rooms get the most traffic in my house, as well as the most messes.

With the new puppy around, the Aero Pro Steam got a lot of workouts, cleaning up accidents in the kitchen and living room and easily gobbles up wet messes. But unlike the Aero Pro, the Aero Pro Steam does not use any cleaning solvents.

During this use, using the Aero Pro Steam was akin to using the regular Aero Pro, which, in my mind, is a good thing. It’s simple to use, cleans effectively, and makes quick work of polishing up my vinyl plank flooring.

I don’t have to think about anything; I just run the vac and swab away. It’s easy to get underneath the kitchen table, and even the living room chairs, since the Aero Pro Steam folds down completely.

I did find the voice prompts annoying, though, and I ended up turning them off. I did the same thing when I tested the regular Aero Pro. For context, the voice is loud, but sometimes difficult to understand, and it’s just as easy to use this vacuum without it.

This is both a pro and a con. The pro is that you don’t need to use any harsh chemicals to get a deep clean. Just let the steam do the work. The con is that if you’re not using the steam setting, you’re relying only on water to do the cleaning, and that can leave some residues and odors behind.

Such is the case with the dog puddles I found myself cleaning. In the Smart cleaning mode, the Aero Pro Steam cleaned up the puddles easily and quickly, but sometimes there was a smell left behind.

This is, of course, easily solved by using the Steam mode. The high-temperature water does a deeper clean than the other settings, and I didn’t notice any smell after cleaning up dog puddles in this mode.

In fact, the Steam mode really makes this wet dry vac shine. It does a great job cleaning up all sorts of messes; we had used a puppy pad for early potty training, which uses adhesive strips to secure itself to the floor. When I removed the pad, the strips had left adhesive messes on the vinyl flooring that I couldn’t easily mop up by hand. The Steam mode on the Aero Pro Steam vac removed it with just one swipe forward and back.

Next, I dumped several condiments on the floor to see how the Aero Pro Steam stacked up. I used Hoisin Sauce, honey, maple syrup, and vegetable oil. The Aero Pro Steam gobbled it all up pretty quickly, though it did end up spreading around a bit before I got it all cleaned. The steam mode made sure to leave no stickiness behind, too.

Overall, the Aero Pro Steam cleaned up every mess I made with ease. It does leave some streaks behind, but the level of clean you get from it is pretty impressive, and it’s super easy to use.

Dreame Aero Pro Steam Wet Dry Vacuum review: Ease of cleaning

Perhaps one downside after cleaning is getting a pretty gnarly smell — but it wasn’t from the roller. It was from the dirty water tank. You’ll want to make sure you empty and clean that tank after every use, or every other use. Once you’ve sucked up enough muck and filth, the tank will start stinking even if the roller doesn’t.

Fortunately, if you leave the voice prompts on, you’ll be reminded to empty the tank after you perform a self-clean. That process takes about five minutes, but then the base will dry the roller for up to 30 minutes.

Dreame Aero Pro Steam Wet Dry Vacuum review: Accessories

There aren’t really any accessories to use with the Dreame Aero Steam beyond what’s included in the box — the base, the cleaning brush, and the extra filter.

However, you can order replacement parts, like rollers, but otherwise, everything you’ll need is already included.

Dreame Aero Pro Steam Wet Dry Vacuum review: Competition

There are several Wet/Dry Vacuums with steam functions, most of which easily best the Dreame Aero Pro Steam on price. But those competitors also tend to be larger, with more accessories to contend with, and with only middling self-cleaning results.

One such competitor is the Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam. It costs $350 and offers a steam cleaning feature. It also uses various detergents to clean, unlike the Aero Pro Steam.

But online reviews state that despite using the instructed cleaning procedures, the Bissell can still give off a musty odor, whereas the Dreame does not, as long as you use the self-cleaning mode and empty the dirty water tank regularly.

In terms of usability, the Dreame is also smaller and lighter, and will clean underneath furniture more effectively.

Dreame Aero Pro Steam Wet Dry Vacuum review: Verdict

Dreame has so far impressed me with their wet-dry vacs I have tested so far. The Dreame Aero Pro Steam is compact, easy to use, offers great run time, and picks up just about any mess I could throw at it with ease.

Plus, the self-cleaning function means no musty smells — as long as you’re mindful about emptying the dirty water tank regularly.

While it does leave some streaks after cleaning on my vinyl plank flooring, I was still impressed overall with the results. The steam cleaning function is ideal for tough stains, and the auto function is great for simple set it and forget it cleaning. It doesn’t use any detergents to clean your floors, but if you’re looking for a unit that can do that (or for a clean scent), I’d recommend the Dreame Aero Pro without the steam function.

I’ve never known a summer when my garden has struggled as much as it has this year. My lawn has gone into dormancy and resembles straw rather than a lush green carpet, and my plants are drooping from a long stint of high temperatures and lack of rainfall.

What’s more, my region has just announced outdoor water-use restrictions. Although I am allowed to keep my homegrown fruit and vegetables watered, I’m banned from getting out my hose pipe.

So, with ongoing intense heat and a lack of rainfall, I’ve been considering a shift in what I plant. And it just so happens that one of my favorite gardeners, Adam Kirtland, who shares his gardening knowledge on his Instagram account @viewfromthepottingbench, has three top plants he recommends that will thrive in hot weather.

1. Lavender

It's probably no surprise that lavender makes it into Kirtland’s top three plants for a hot, dry climate. I can personally vouch for how well it performs in intense sunlight and with limited water. What’s more, it’s a great space-filler and smells divine, especially when you brush past it.

Kirkland describes this shrub as “an absolute classic” and “a must-have in every garden," adding, "We all know about lavender, but this really is one plant that we all need. "

He suggests buying a large plant or a smaller one and giving it time to grow on. It’s also best planted in dry, free-draining compost and loves full sun.

2. Echinacea

Kirtland’s next recommendation is the show-stopping Echinacea, commonly known as the coneflower. This daisy-like beauty is a long-lasting perennial that thrives in full sun.

Although it’s available in a wide range of colors, he has chosen a pink version. But if pink isn’t your thing, you can choose anything from soft coral to bright yellow and fiery red.

Apart from being a top performer in the heat, Kirtland says, “Pollinators absolutely love echinacea from bud to flower to dried seed head; this is a flower that looks amazing all year round.”

3. Agapanthus

I have to admit to having a soft spot for agapanthus. This plant never fails to stop me in my tracks, as I admire its striking flowerheads.

What’s more, it looks great whatever size your garden is. “Whether you’ve got a small garden or a sprawling estate, this is a plant for you,” says Kirtland.

However, he doesn’t believe in being shy about how many you plant. “The trick with this is to plant a few, not just one and repeat it throughout your garden.”

As an added benefit, he explains it has an amazing root system, which means it is perfect for dividing and splitting in your garden — making it an excellent choice for a plant that keeps on giving.

How is your yard changing shape in the heat?

With high temperatures and less rainfall, are you changing what you plant in your yard? I’d be interested to know what extra steps you are taking to care for your plants in these extreme conditions, and whether you are opting for more drought-tolerant plants that will survive the heat. Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Gardening essentials we love

More from Tom's Guide

• Don't let the heatwave destroy your plants — expert shares 3 top tips to do right now
• How to keep your lawn alive in a heatwave — 4 expert tips to help it survive
• Can you plant in a heatwave? The survival guide to planting in July

I bought my first hydrangea this year. And despite everyone I know (well, my mom and grandma) telling me to plant it in the ground, I decided to defy the odds and keep it in my lovely garden pot. And it worked for approximately two months until it totally died. Or so I thought it did.

I took a few snaps of my once-pink and beautiful hydrangea and asked AI to help me bring it back to life. To my surprise, there were several things I was doing wrong, all of which definitely contributed to its rapid decay.

Now? It's showing some signs of regrowth, and I didn't even have to spend any money. Here's hoping that next year will bring some of these beautiful blooms back again.

Yes, there is a chance that you can save your potted hydrangea if it's looking a little sad because of the heat.

So whether you are battling parched patches or fragile stems, here is my personal process—and the expert-backed steps you should implement—before you give up and toss everything into the compost heap. After all, a little effort can go a long way!

1. You need to trim it back (trust me!)

One of the worst things that you can do if your hydrangea is dying is leave it to wilt and die.

Instead, you need to chop away the dead bits to make way for new life. Start by removing dead leaves and then focus on the dead stems.

A good way to test the stems is to scratch them slightly. If they are green underneath, they are alive, but brown means they're dead.

I had to trim back my entire hydrangea in the end, and I really wasn't feeling hopeful afterwards, to be honest. But I did manage to find a good few stems showing slithers of life.

2. It definitely needs a good drink

You might think that just watering your hydrangea with your watering can is enough. And most of the time, it is.

But when it's looking really sad or maybe almost dead, then it's time for a sink bath. Simply use your plug and fill your kitchen sink with water, place your pot in there, and let it have a really good drink.

A good way to check if your hydrangea needs a sink bath is to use a finger and poke it into its soil. If it's soggy or musty 2-3 inches down, it's been overwatered, or there might be poor drainage. If it's totally dry, in the sink it goes.

I left mine in the sink for 30 minutes. I then let it fully drain afterwards, before walking it back through my house and to my garden.

3. It probably needs to be moved

My garden is south-facing, which you think is great until it hits the summer months and being barefoot outside is no longer an option.

So, watering your plants three times a day becomes a chore and a necessity. All jokes aside: a south-facing garden is a little bit of a nightmare. And it's also probably the reason why some of your plants aren't surviving! After I moved my hydrangea from one side of my garden to the other, I saw a difference.

Simply moving its position from all-day sun to only morning sun and afternoon shade gave this plant a little bit of a break.

Now, it lives in the one spot in my garden that gets shade first, and it's loving it.

4. Feed it coffee

Just like yourself, your hydrangea plant thrives when given a coffee (or five!).

I have a bean-to-cup coffee maker, and I've been feeding this plant the spent grounds and water for around six weeks.

I don't overdo it, but a little does definitely help! There are so many good uses for coffee when it comes to gardening.

Top tip

You might find that a few weeds start growing in your potted hydrangea as you're trying to encourage new growth.

This is normal, but you should definitely remove these from the root as soon as possible. These weeds will be taking away any nutrients from your hydrangea, and as we know, it desperately needs all of the nutrients it can get right now.

The end results

Six weeks later, I can finally see new life coming back to my hydrangea plant. There's no chance of blooming flowers just yet, but it is showing promising signs of regrowth thanks to its obviously new and green leaves in the center of its pot.

And I even asked AI to confirm this for me, in case it was wishful thinking. I told it my location, and it assessed the photo I sent.

The roots are definitely still alive, and it's starting to reshoot from the base, which is what hydrangeas do after a severe dieback.

If yours is looking the same, then it recommends leaving it for another 2-3 weeks without pruning, as the current stems will protect new growth. After this, you can decide which stems are finally dead and which ones are showing positive signs. In this time, keep it moist but don't let it sit in lots of water.

Gardening watering essentials we love

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• How often should you water tomato plants and when should you do it?
• 3 ways to tell that your tomatoes are ready to harvest
• 7 ways to increase the yield from your tomato plants

With summer finally here, it's my absolute favorite time of year for outdoor entertaining, whether that means cooking up a storm on my best grill or soaking up the sun with friends.

And so there’s nothing more frustrating than seeing a trail of ants taking over my patio and dining area. In fact, I’d thought I’d finally cleared the rogue few from my kitchen, but it looks like the real source of the problem was my backyard all along.

While I’ve tried various methods to eliminate ants—ranging from white vinegar and citrus peels to boiling water—these hacks typically offer only a short-term fix.

However, everything changed when I discovered a natural powerhouse that effectively wiped out the infestation for good. Here is why diatomaceous earth has become my new go-to solution.

What is Diatomaceous Earth?

Despite its name, Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is not actually earth, or soil, the way that we know it. This substance actually consists of microscopic remains from ancient sea life, making it a completely organic and natural solution.

Similar to baking soda, DE appears as a white powder, and the food-grade version is safe for humans to handle. It’s also a great, non-toxic alternative, as it’s free from harsh chemicals.

Once pests make contact with the powder, it essentially drains the fluids from their outer shells, leading to their eventual dehydration and demise. Making DE an effective, natural pest repellent in your yard.

How I used diatomaceous earth in my backyard

With this in mind, I got to work trying to banish the ant invasion that was taking over my yard — and it was grim. The sight was overwhelming; hundreds of them — and I am not exaggerating — were streaming from the crevices of my patio pavers, scaling the walls, and swarming my garden plants. They were quite literally everywhere I looked.

I sprinkled a generous amount of DE into the cracks of the paving stones, steps, and any spot where they all seemed to be congregated.

Granted, the trails of white powder everywhere didn’t look appealing, but I was at my wits' end and wanted to get rid of these tiny critters once and for all.

To my surprise, the swarming masses had already begun to thin out, leaving only a scattered few behind. And within just 15 minutes, the entire infestation had vanished completely. I was impressed.

Given the scorching, hot weather we’ve had recently, I decided to reapply a fresh layer of the powder. A week later, and I haven’t spotted even a single rogue ant in my yard.

Forget white vinegar; diatomaceous earth has now become my go-to pest repellent. So if you ever want to get rid of ants quickly and hassle-free, you might want to keep DE on standby this summer.

More from Tom's Guide

• How do I know what kind of ants I have in my home and why it matters? I ask the pest experts
• Pest experts warn you should never squash ants in your home — here’s why
• 5 steps to stop carpenter ants before they infest your home

I’ve been a gamer for as long as I can remember but when it came to my home office setup, I just couldn’t imagine using a gaming chair over an office chair.

While gaming chairs typically have racing bucket-style seats with a faux-leather finish, the best office chairs come in a wider variety of designs and styles. From task chairs without headrests to ergonomic ones with dedicated lumbar support and my favorite, full-mesh office chairs with plenty of airflow, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Back when I first set up my home office, I wanted it to look as professional as possible. This meant a clean setup with few distractions. That’s why I opted for one of the best standing desks and a nice ergonomic chair with a mesh backrest to go with it. Over the years, I’ve built countless desk setups while trying out dozens of different desks and chairs.

Still, I had yet to try a ‘true’ gaming chair, even if I did test out a few hybrid ones like the Herman Miller Vantum. That all changed recently when I reviewed the new Razer Iskur V2 NewGen gaming chair. Although I’ve always considered myself an office chair purist, Razer’s latest finally won me over. Well, mostly.

A gaming chair with an ergonomic twist

The Iskur V2 NewGen sits right at the top of Razer’s lineup as its flagship gaming chair, and for good reason. Alongside an upgraded EPU leather finish, this is the company’s most adjustable chair to date — and that’s exactly what drew me to it in the first place.

Compared to office chairs, gaming chairs often get a bad rap when it comes to their adjustability and fit. While many office chairs are engineered to conform to your spine’s natural curve and dynamically move with you as you shift throughout the day, a lot of gaming chairs feel rigid and stiff by comparison.

Although the original Iskur from 2020 suffered from these design flaws, Razer has since taken massive steps to completely overhaul its design and comfort. This started by completely reimagining the backrest and the adaptive lumbar support mechanism housed within it.

Instead of being static, the Iskur V2 NewGen’s lumbar support system now actively swivels and moves with you, while still allowing you to manually tweak it to your liking. A knob on the left side of the chair lets you move the mechanism up and down to align perfectly with the small of your back, while the knob on the right side allows you to control how far it extends out.

Not only is this a first for a gaming chair, it’s a feature you typically only find on premium office chairs — and even then, it’s not one I see all that often. What’s great about this updated system is that you can dial the lumbar support forward to keep your spine supported if you're leaning in close to your desk to focus. Then, when you want to sit back in a more relaxed position, you just turn the knob on the right to retract it so you can sit straight with plenty of lower back support.

Dead simple adjustments (and recline)

One thing I’ve noticed with some of the higher-end office chairs I’ve reviewed is that their manufacturers often make them overly complicated — especially when it comes to their adjustments. The Iskur V2 NewGen, on the other hand, keeps things simple with a hand-brake style lever to adjust the chair’s recline and a series of buttons for its armrests.

These 4D armrests can be moved up/down, forward/backward, closer/further away from you and angled inward or outward. There’s nothing worse than having your chair’s armrests move on their own after you’ve painstakingly adjusted them to your liking, which is why I really like how the buttons on either side keep these ones from moving.

You don’t get a built-in footrest like with the Hinomi X1 or the Hbada X7 I reviewed, nor is there a separate one like on the LiberNovo Omni, but I still really enjoyed leaning back in the Iskur V2 NewGen. With the lever in hand, you just lean back as far as you want and when you let it go, the chair’s backrest stays locked in place. When it’s time to get up, you just grab the lever again and sit up.

With a max recline of 152 degrees, the Iskur V2 NewGen is great for kicking back, but it’s not really the kind of chair you’d want to take a nap in, especially without a built-in footrest.

Super supportive but not quite mesh cool

Now don’t get me wrong, I found the Iskur V2 NewGen’s backrest to be incredibly supportive — which makes sense given it’s a lot thicker than the backrests on the office chairs I routinely test. And while the cooling tech embedded in its EPU leather did help somewhat, it just couldn’t beat the airflow you get with a mesh office chair.

While a mesh backrest may be good enough for some people, I actually prefer an all-mesh chair that has a mesh seat too like the high-back version of the Steelcase Karman pictured above. Since I live in Houston, Texas where it gets both hot and humid, I need as much airflow as possible year-round.

If you still prefer a gaming chair with a racing-style seat, there are things you can do to mitigate the extra heat that comes with a faux-leather finish. For instance, while testing the Iskur V2 NewGen, I had a tower fan pointed at me at all times. However, when I moved it into a smaller room with an overhead fan, that really did the trick.

Now after two months, would I daily drive a gaming chair? I still don’t think I would, given I live in a hotter climate. However, when the sun goes down and it finally gets cooler, kicking back in the Iskur V2 NewGen to play some games has been an absolute delight. It might not be the ideal work-from-home chair — at least for me — but it is an excellent chair to game in.

More from Tom's Guide

• I made one of the best gaming chairs even better by turning it into a recliner — here’s how
• I tested The Folding Gaming Chair and now I may never go back to the couch
• I just sat on my dream gaming chair, and now I’m fighting the urge to take a nap to tell you about the Cougar Arker

Now that summer has arrived, the scorching temperatures often take their toll on our previously lush and green grass. It’s disheartening to see unappealing yellow patches or spots on your lawn, particularly when you have gone the extra mile to seed bare spots.

In addition, you’re probably wondering why grass grows at a faster rate in some bare spots and not in others. Luckily, I’ve called on the lawn care experts to reveal why my grass is still patchy after seeding and to share tips on how to fix it.

What causes lawn to be patchy after seeding?

Essentially, overseeding is when you spread a thin layer of grass seed that matches your existing lawn type and climate zone. Experts usually suggest this method to fix bare spots, naked turf, or overrunning weeds, which are clear signs of density issues.

But why does your grass still look a little patchy even after you’ve seeded? According to experts, there could be several reasons for this — from birds swiping seeds off the ground to the breeze blowing some away.

“It’s quite common for the first go at seeding to come up slightly patchy,” adds Chrissie Handley, lawn care specialist at Online Turf. “You tend to lose some seed either from the birds picking some off the ground, or through wind blowing it away, or heavy rain can also wash some away, giving you a sparse regrowth.”

Although it’s advisable to sprinkle the seeds by hand to tackle those smaller areas, you may be spreading it too thin in certain areas — leading to patchy turf after seeding.

“Sometimes, the area can appear sparse and patchy if you’ve seeded by hand, as sometimes there will be a higher concentration of seed in certain areas, depending on the way it fell when sown,” adds Handley.

“You can simply top up these areas with additional seed once you begin to notice the sparse areas. If you do this when the seed is just beginning to germinate, you’ll have a better chance of it blending together quickly.”

How do I fix my patchy lawn?

So what can I do to fix unsightly patches? Experts advise the best solution is to reseed the affected areas, using lawn repair products or a good fertilizer.

“Proper fertilization also encourages dense turf, effectively crowding out weeds and minimizing bare patches, reducing soil erosion and promoting overall lawn stability,” states Allison Koenig, lawn and garden expert at Tractor Supply.

“Good fertilizing practice can help ensure you grow greener, healthier grass with a strong root system to combat heat, cold, drought, mowing, and foot traffic.”

For top tips, check out how often should you fertilize your lawn and when to do it.

Of course, prevention is key, and there are top tips you can do before seeding to ensure you get lush, revived grass for the summer. These include things sowing at the right time of day or adding a layer of topsoil afterwards.

“There are ways to try and counteract this with the way that you sow – always factor in extra, it’s always better to overseed to over-prepare for any that may be lost, as well as covering the seeded area,” Handley suggests.

“Add in a thin layer of topsoil afterwards. This can help stop the birds from picking it off, and also helps the seed make good contact with the ground, improving your germination rate.

“Make sure it’s a light covering of topsoil so that you’re not smothering them, and try to sow on a mild day where temperatures are forecast to be consistent for a while for a better yield. You should also keep the area consistently moist but don’t overwater — if you’re getting a lot of rain, hold off on watering.”

Typically, you should ensure your lawn gets the recommended one to two inches of water each week, but during hot, dry spells, you may need to double the duration. Additionally, watering deeply every three to four days rather than daily helps promote stronger, more drought-resistant roots.

For more top tips, check out how to tell if your lawn needs overseeding, especially if you want to maintain healthy grass all year round. Or if you just want a lush lawn, try these 11 secrets to a lawn that’s greener than your neighbor's.

Lawncare essentials we love

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• 7 common lawn care mistakes you’re probably making right now
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• 5 plants that will keep wasps out of your yard

We're now into July, which means we've done six full months of testing here at Tom's Guide in 2026. From coffee machines, through to vacuums, gaming handhelds, laptops and phones — not only is it our job to put tech through its paces, it's what our journalists, editors and contributors love to do.

I'm Pete, Senior Reviews Editor here at Tom's Guide, and I head up our reviews coverage on site. My team of dedicated reviews writers alone have lab tested and reviewed hundreds of products already this year, with the wider Tom's Guide editorial team having testing dozens more. If you've not had your finger precisely on the pulse of the latest tech this year, well, I don't blame you — it's hard to keep tabs on everything. That's why we exist.

To help, I've gathered the Tom's Guide team's favorite products from 2026 so far. Obviously, I can't fit everything into a single article, so I asked our subject experts across the site to give me their top picks, too. I've also curated the top five highest scorers, which stand above the rest. Every product on here has been tested by us, hands-on, as part of a full, extensive review.

Read on to see the tech Tom's Guide loved in the first half of 2026.

Tom's Guide's Top 5

Every product on this list has scored at least four stars, earning our TG Recommended or Editor's Choice badges. But there are five products on this list that scored our full five stars after testing. These are the best of the best so far this year. To save you some time, here are the links to our reviews.

• DJI Osmo Pocket 4 review ★★★★★
• 007 First Light review ★★★★★
• KitchenAid Artisan Plus review ★★★★★
• Gozney Dome XL Gen 2 review ★★★★★
• Samsung S95H OLED review ★★★★★

Keep reading to see the rest of our top tested picks for 2026.

AI

Rokid Glasses

After 5,000 miles in the Rokids, we were seriously impressed
Score: ★★★★☆

The best smart glasses without a display are cool and all, but their features are usually rather limited to just asking questions about what you see. The Rokid Glasses proved to me that adding a screen turns that superpower into an ambient computing platform — offering features only when you need them and disappearing into the background in some stylish specs.

With that display, you get real-time conversation translation with text subtitles so you’re not having to try to listen to your smart glasses talk over the person in front of you. And the multi-modality unlocked by asking a question and just getting answers you can see makes them much more subtle. Not to say they’re perfect — the camera quality for snapping pictures suffers in low light and some features are very China-specific (like Alipay). But arm these with Google Gemini in setup, and they’re a genuinely helpful companion on your face for a decent price.

Jason England, Managing Editor, Core Tech
Read Jason's full Rokid Glasses review

Cameras & drones

GoPro Mission 1 Pro

GoPro's return to form in the action camera game
Score: ★★★★½

After years essentially re-releasing the same Hero cameras with minor tweaks, GoPro has finally pushed itself. The Mission 1 Pro is pricey, but it’s the first GoPro I’ve been excited about in a while. It seriously impressed me with its powerful and versatile video credentials in testing, namely open gate 8K and a wealth of shooting features that make it ideal for its target market: professionals. Thanks to revised processor architecture and a shiny new battery, I managed to extract unparalleled battery life and thermals versus other action cameras in my standardized battery tests. GoPro is back!

Pete Wolinski, Senior Reviews & Cameras Editor
Read Pete’s full GoPro Mission 1 Pro review

DJI Osmo Pocket 4

The best all-around tool for content creation
Score: ★★★★★

I awarded the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 our full five stars in my review, and that’s because I literally couldn’t find anything wrong with it. Aside from the fact that it’s not available in America (yet?) due to tariffs and DJI’s ongoing feud with the U.S. government. The Osmo Pocket 4 improved on its predecessor in every single way that mattered: video, stabilization, storage, thermals, battery life, and more. If you’re after a single tool for professional-looking content creation, I really can’t think of anything better to recommend.

Pete Wolinski, Senior Reviews & Cameras Editor
Read Pete’s full DJI Osmo Pocket 4 review

DJI Avata 360

Although a little late to the 360 party, DJI absolutely smashed it
Score: ★★★★½

The DJI Avata 360 does exactly what you want a drone to do: make flying fun. It stakes its claim as the best 360° drone around (granted, there are only two at the time of writing, but still!) and its twin lenses capture every single angle in 8K at 60fps. 120MP hi-res stills, user-friendly editing software, and exceptional build quality make it the drone to buy today. It also undercuts its main competitor, the Antigravity A1, and with dual ways to fly (FPV and with a standard controller), the Avata 360 is versatile and oh-so-powerful. Every day I still think about it — and as someone who’s tested many, many quadcopters, that’s saying a lot.

Nikita Achanta, Senior Reviews Writer
Read Nikita’s full DJI Avata 360 review

Computing & gaming

MacBook Neo

Our favorite budget laptop, literally ever
Score: ★★★★½

Value for money in laptops has become a bit of a running joke this year (thanks, RAMageddon). But of all the companies building notebooks, I didn’t anticipate it would be Apple to deliver the goods and give you an honest-to-god well-priced system. Yes, there’s been a $100 increase recently, but even with that, the premium aluminum build quality, great display, tactile keyboard and zippy performance of that A18 Pro makes for a great system for the day-to-day essentials.

I must admit, to see Apple actually having fun with colors in its MacBooks is a refreshing change from the blacks and silvers of its more expensive lineage. All of this comes together into a laptop that has terrified the budget Windows laptop market, and the best ultra portable we’ve tested this year.

Jason England, Managing Editor, Core Tech
Read our full MacBook Neo review

Asus Zenbook Duo (2026)

Dual OLED panels = chef's kiss
Score: ★★★★½

Yes, this is a dual-screen OLED beauty of a premium laptop; Asus has really paid attention to the design and ergonomics of a system like this. But the real superpower is what lies inside that shell. Intel Core Ultra Series 3 (codenamed Panther Lake) has been a truly generational moment for Team Blue in its Windows laptops, and it comes down to huge updates to both the performance and power efficiency.

Those new CPU cores and efficiency architecture they’re built onto gives this a gargantuan battery life that would make a MacBook blush, while the superpowered GPU (alongside XeSS 3) gives this some serious gaming laptop chops too. Usually, you had to be considerate of just what you wanted to do with your Windows laptop and decide on the strengths and compromises around that. With anything that sports an X9 chip like this, though, that’s no longer a compromise you have to make.

Jason England, Managing Editor, Core Tech
Read Jason's full Asus Zenbook Duo (2026) review

MSI Claw 8 EX AI+

A true next-gen gaming handheld
Score: ★★★★☆

The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ delivers the performance jump I’ve been waiting years for. With Intel’s new Arc G3 Extreme chip, games are pulling a 20 to 30+ FPS advantage over AMD Z2 Extreme handhelds. Battery life gets a big boost too. I could hit the same performance as the Z2 Extreme at half the power consumption. Combine that with its major redesign bringing more Xbox-like controls, better haptics, and its large 8-inch 16:10 display, and you’re getting, in my opinion, one of the best handheld gaming consoles of 2026.

Paul Antill, Video Producer
Read our full MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ review

007 First Light

Forget GoldenEye: this is the best Bond game ever
Score: ★★★★★

Gamers are being treated to a licensed games renaissance right now. The days of cheap cash-ins launched to coincide with a new blockbuster movie are over. But even in this golden era for video games based on popular media franchises, 007 First Light surpasses expectations.

Forget GoldenEye, First Light is the best James Bond game ever. With its ludicrously cinematic gameplay, compelling narrative that focuses on a younger Bond (played by Patrick Gibson), and deep commitment to authenticity, 007 First Light is easily the best thing to come out of this long-running spy series in 20 years, movies included. There’s a reason it was only the second video game I’ve given the full five stars. Whether you’re a longtime Bond fan or a newcomer, 007 First Light is quite simply unmissable.

Rory Mellon, Senior Entertainment Editor
Read Rory's full 007 First Light review

Epomaker Glyph

Nikita's dream keyboard
Score: ★★★★½

I’ve tested close to 100 keyboards in my time as a reviews writer, and it isn’t often that I get to proclaim, “I’ve found my dream keyboard.” Ever since I tested the Epomaker Glyph, it hasn’t left my desk, and it’s my daily driver when I’m at the office. Typewriter-like aesthetics, a return lever that acts as an Enter or Backspace key, beautiful RGB lighting, a creamy sound profile, and a typing experience that’s nothing short of stunning — all of these characteristics come together to deliver what’s probably the best mechanical keyboard I’ve used for typing. I’m a speed demon when I’m bashing out 109 words per minute of this thing.

Nikita Achanta, Senior Reviews Writer
Read Nikita’s full Epomaker Glyph review

(A note from Nikita's editor, Pete: "I can confirm, the Glyph genuinely hasn't left her desk!")

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36

Pro performance for under $1,000
Score: ★★★★½

It’s no secret that MSI knows how to make a great gaming monitor, and its MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 is one of the most beautiful displays I’ve ever tested. Blistering 360Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time for buttery smooth gameplay? Check. Ridiculously accurate colors and wide color coverage? Yep. AI sleep and wake features that are actually useful and not just a gimmick? Oh yeah. And all of this is packed into a sleek design with plenty of ports. Not much to complain about here, really.

Nikita Achanta, Senior Reviews Writer
Read Nikita’s full MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 review

Viture Beast AR glasses

Beast by name, beast by nature
Score: ★★★★½

I’ve traveled the world testing all of this year’s biggest AR glasses releases, and Viture Beast stands head and shoulders above the pack as the best I’ve used this year (so far). There’s three reasons why: picture quality, comfort and features. Viture’s color science and fidelity really shines in those micro-OLED displays with a massive 58-degree field of view. There’s a little edge fringing on the sides, but given the massive vision field, it’s unlikely you’ll notice it. And this is packed into a nice-feeling pair of glasses with a soft-touch coating that sits gently on your ears with optimal weight balance. Cap it all off with plenty of customization built in, plus the SpaceWalker app for multi-monitor home office setups, and the Beast are…well…pretty beastly for work and play.

Jason England, Managing Editor, Core Tech
Read Jason's full Viture Beast review

Fitness

Fitbit Air

The best Whoop alternative, and subscription-free
Score: ★★★★☆

The Fitbit Air is my fitness tracker of the year so far. Discreet and distraction-free (no screen), this is a fitness tracker that's easy to use, lightweight, and oh-so-comfortable. Just $99 and subscription-free for core features, it offers a week of battery life and covers all the holistic metrics you'd expect from a modern device, like heart health, sleep quality, daily movement, and workouts. For most people, this is the best screen-free fitness tracker you can buy, and the new Google Health companion app makes viewing all your health data a dream.

Jane McGuire, Managing Editor, Fitness
Read our full Fitbit Air review

Salomon XT-6

Hike, shop or relax in comfort and style
Score: ★★★★½

The Salomon XT-6 shoes have become a staple in my closet. Whether I’m heading to the store or hitting up a challenging trail on the weekend, I know I’ll be supported. I wore these hiking sneakers on a city break, where I clocked over 93,000 steps and didn’t have a single complaint. Not only that, the multidirectional lugs kept me stable on even the trickiest terrain, as I hiked in mud, over rocks, and through water.

On top of their technical ability, the XT-6s are a fashion statement, worn all over New York by fashion-forward celebs; these shoes have earned a coveted spot in my daily rotation — although you’ll find me cleaning the mud off them after each adventure.

Ashley Thieme, Staff Writer
Read Ashley’s full Salomon XT-6 review

Homes

Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless

A powerful cordless Dyson that's perfect for pet owners
Score: ★★★★☆

I’ve tested my fair share of Dyson vacuum cleaners in my time, but I must say that the V16 combines all of my favorite features in one cleaner. First, its upgraded ‘Fluffy Cones’ head is designed to be used on both carpets and hard flooring without the need to swap over attachments. This is a great time-saver, and lets me quickly zip around my home without pausing. Perhaps my favorite feature is the dust-detecting green light which reveals those hidden dustballs lurking underneath furniture and in corners. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to store, which is why it’s now my go-to for daily maintenance, and why I awarded our Editor’s Choice badge.

Cynthia Lawrence, Homes Editor
Read Cynthia’s full Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless review

KitchenAid Artisan Plus

The latest version of KitchenAid's legendary mixer, and the best one yet
Score: ★★★★★

I got to test KitchenAid’s newest stand mixer, the Artisan Plus, and it’s even better than I imagined. I’d been happily using KitchenAid’s Artisan stand mixer as my go-to appliance for a good few years, and I really didn’t see how it could be improved, but it has. It may only seem like a few tweaks, but they have made a big difference. From the sliding speed control that just glides, to the in-bowl light, which illuminates the mix — and let's not forget the double-edge flex beater that cleans the bowl as it sweeps past— I loved it so much during testing that I gave it a 5-star rating.

Camilla Sharman, Staff Writer
Read Camilla’s full KitchenAid Artisan Plus review

Gozney Dome XL (Gen 2)

The undisputed king of pizza ovens
Score: ★★★★★

If you’re a dedicated — and I mean dedicated — at-home pizza maker, the Gozney Dome XL (Gen 2) is the closest you’ll come to actually building a pizza oven from scratch. It can run on either gas, wood, or charcoal, has dual temperature probes, and is big enough to fit a 16-inch pie with room to spare. I loved its easy-to-ready displays, and the design of the oven is just gorgeous, too. Yes, it’s huge and it’s expensive (I’ve made equally good pizzas in much cheaper ovens), but this is the oven that’ll signal you’re the real pizzaiolo in your neighborhood.

Mike Prospero, U.S. Editor-in-chief
Read Mike’s full Gozney Dome XL (Gen 2) review

Fellow Espresso Series 1

Beginners or pros, coffee snobs or otherwise — this one is for everyone
Score: ★★★★½

When Fellow designed the Espresso Series 1, it looked at the other espresso machines out there and thought, “I’m going to do something different.” And different the Espresso Series 1 is. When I tested this machine, I loved that it provided coffee-snob-approved features while still being usable for complete beginners. On top of having a litany of customization options on the machine itself, I loved having the app, which walked me through how to make every type of coffee ever invented. You may think this is too ambitious, but for me, the Espresso Series 1 hits all its marks and comes out victorious.

Erin Bashford, Senior Reviews Writer
Read Erin’s full Fellow Espresso Series 1 review

Phones

Apple iPhone 17

A surprisingly solid update over the previous generation
Score: ★★★★½

Apple launched more new phones than in any previous year, but the iPhone 17 remains my favorite for several reasons. One thing that makes it stand out is that it finally got a long-overdue upgrade to a 120Hz refresh rate, making its screen look even more fluid than before in testing. On top of that, I really love how it didn’t get a price hike and still managed to get double the starting storage.

John Velasco, Senior Phones Editor
Read John's full iPhone 17 review

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The phone that'll get better over time
Score: ★★★★½

When it comes to Android phones, nothing caught my eye more than the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Samsung’s flagship received all the iterative updates it deserved, but one particular new feature stood out most: the Privacy Display. It works like magic, making the screen look dark when someone tries to peek at it from the side. You can even customize it to block out specific parts of the display — like when you’re messaging someone. This exclusive feature is what sets it apart from everything else.

John Velasco, Senior Phones Editor
Read our full Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review

Sleep

Saatva Zenhaven Mattress

What you should be sleeping on in 2026
Score: ★★★★½

The Saatva Zenhaven latex mattress blew our socks off during testing, thanks to its naturally cooling and supportive sleep feel for eco-conscious shoppers. Handcrafted in the US from (mostly) organic materials, the Zenhaven boasts a flippable design with a different tension on each side: Luxury Plush and Gentle Firm. We appreciated how one side boasted more cushioning for side sleepers, while the unyielding feel of the firmer side best-suited back and stomach sleepers. At $3,549 at full MSRP it’s a splurge, but cheaper during Saatva mattress sales. However, it’s worth noting that latex mattresses can last up to 20 years, so we think it’s worth the investment.

Nicola Appleton, Sleep Editor
Read our full Saatva Zenhaven Mattress review

Fitnexa SomniPods 3

If you struggle sleeping, these earbuds are for you
Score: ★★★★☆

The Fitnexa SomniPods 3 are compact sleep earbuds that helped me sleep better in even the most disruptive environments (like my neighbor's son playing basketball at unsociable hours). Fitted with built-in white noise, excellent active noise cancelation, plus sleep tracking features, they’re an easy recommendation for any troubled sleepers. But the real stand-out feature for me is the Fitnexa app. Here, your own AI coach waits for you, ready to provide personalized advice based on your sleep tracking data, activity logs and food diaries. The info isn’t quite on par with a qualified sleep professional but thanks to the wealth of data to draw from, it was pretty spot on in testing, helping take the SomniPods from sleep earbud to all-round sleep enhancer.

Ruth Jones, Senior Sleep Writer
Read Ruth's full Fitnexa SomniPods 3 review

Smart home & security

Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+

A fantastic way to improve security on a budget
Score: ★★★★☆

Blink has long been one of our favorite budget smart home brands, and its newest battery-powered video doorbell furthers its reputation as a value leader. The Battery Doorbell 2K+ delivered very good 2K video in our testing — not the tops, but for a sub-$100 device it was more than acceptable. And, while it runs on AA batteries, they’ll last up to two years on a charge. You can also use this video doorbell without a subscription (you’ll need to purchase a separate adapter), but Blink’s subscription price is relatively affordable.

Mike Prospero, U.S. Editor-in-chief
Read our full Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ review

TV & Audio

Samsung S95H OLED

Supreme picture quality, even in bright rooms
Score: ★★★★★

I’ve tested countless TVs, but the Samsung S95H is the first unit in several years that truly surpassed all my expectations. It completely shatters the familiar rules of OLED, obliterating ambient glare and delivering an unprecedented, jaw-dropping brightness in the self-emissive category. Even the floating metal bezel (a design choice I fully assumed I'd hate) adds a striking, premium presence I grew to love. Between its breathtaking performance and how seamlessly it transitions into a decor piece via Samsung Art Store support, this is a flagship that stands as a definitive standard-bearer.

Kate Kozuch, Managing Editor
Read Kate's full Samsung S95H OLED review

AirPods Max 2

Everything is dialed up to 11
Score: ★★★★½

It’s impossible to be a tech lover and not have strong opinions about Apple’s new AirPods Max 2. Some people love them, some people hate them, but I’m firmly in the first camp. The AirPods Max 2 are headphones that know what they’re about, and they’re not apologizing for it. With gorgeous anodized aluminum ear cups and an all-metal headband, they’re not the lightest cans in the world, but the sound more than makes up for it.

Every detail is clear, mids are melodic and vivacious, and the bass is balanced, rich, and warm. Of course, you’ve also got industry-leading smart tech features like Live Translation and integrated Siri, but Apple users looking for the best headphones need look no further than Apple’s own.

Erin Bashford, Senior Reviews Writer
Read Erin’s full Apple AirPods Max 2 review

Beyerdynamic Amiron ZERO

Open earbuds that make no sacrifices
Score: ★★★★½

The Beyerdynamic Amiron ZERO have completely changed the way I think about open-earbuds (and I’ve tested a lot). Up until testing the ZEROs, I’d accepted that if I wanted ambient awareness, comfort and stability while working out, I’d need to sacrifice sound quality — but they prove that’s not the case. They provided me with the detailed listening experience I love from Beyerdynamic’s other headphones, without compromising bass performance, delivering perfectly balanced sound. I wear them when I’m working, running, or hiking in the rain (thanks to IP54 durability). They’re the only open earbuds I’ve tested with no compromises.

Ashley Thieme, Staff Writer
Read Ashley’s full Beyerdynamic Amiron ZERO review

JBL Xtreme 5

The party speaker for summer 2026
Score: ★★★★½

The JBL Xtreme 5 came, it saw, and it conquered. JBL really understood the assignment with the surprise follow-up to 2024’s Xtreme 4. Everything about the Xtreme 5 oozes confidence: the deft, controlled bass that’ll have your floorboards shaking and your bones quaking; the literally unbeatable IP68 rating that protects it against rain, sand, and drops; the gorpcore, utilitarian design; and of course the rugged 24-hour battery life. This is the party speaker of 2026. I’ve tested hundreds of audio products and Bluetooth speakers, but the Xtreme 5 is a special one.

Erin Bashford, Senior Reviews Writer
Read Erin’s full JBL Xtreme 5 review

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Basil is fussy about conditions. It comes from warm tropical environments where it thrives in heat, bright light, and consistent care. When basil starts turning yellow, it's essentially waving a flag. Something in its environment has shifted.

Once you understand what basil needs, diagnosing the problem becomes straightforward. In most cases, yellowing basil leaves signal one of three fixable issues. Here's how to identify which one and get your plant back to thriving.

1. Your basil is too wet

Overwatering causes about 80% of basil yellowing problems. Basil hates sitting in waterlogged soil. When soil stays damp, roots suffocate and can't absorb nutrients or oxygen. The plant essentially drowns from the inside.

Look at the lower leaves first. If they're turning soft and mushy yellow while the soil feels damp or smells stale, you're watering too much. The fix is immediate: stop watering completely. Let the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out entirely before you water again.

Also, make sure your pot has drainage holes. This is non-negotiable for basil.

Going forward, water when soil feels dry to the touch, not on a schedule. Basil would rather be slightly underwatered than oversaturated.

2. It's living in the shadows

Basil is a sun worshipper that needs 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its green color. Without it, the entire plant looks pale and yellowish. You'll also notice the stems getting long, thin, and stretchy as they reach desperately toward the nearest light source.

Move basil to your absolute sunniest window, preferably south-facing. If indoor light is genuinely limited, a cheap LED grow light makes an enormous difference. Even a few hours under a grow light daily revives pale, yellowing basil remarkably fast.

Outdoor placement works too, if weather allows. Exposure to full sun transforms basil plants within days.

3. The soil has nothing left to give

Basil grows aggressively and depletes potting soil nutrients within 4-6 weeks. Nitrogen deficiency is usually the culprit behind yellowing leaves. Unlike the mushy yellow from overwatering, nutrient-starved basil stays firm. The entire plant just looks pale and stunted.

Give it a drink of balanced, water-soluble fertilizer mixed at half strength — tomato or herb fertilizer works perfectly. One feeding usually restores color within a week or two. If you're using basil heavily for cooking, consider fertilizing every 2-3 weeks to keep nutrients available.

More from Tom's Guide

• Is your basil plant wilting? 5 causes and quick fixes to revive it
• Why are my tomato plant leaves turning yellow? 5 steps to save your harvest
• The timeless gardening wisdom your grandparents swore by — and why it still works today

This summer has been hot, with record-breaking temperatures all across the globe. Europe was baking with 100-plus-degree heat, while back here in the U.S., we weren't doing much better. At least we have air conditioning!

Unless we're suddenly plunged into another ice age, summers are only going to get hotter — and our bills will continue to rise — so we need to find better, and more efficient ways of keeping our homes cool without emptying our 401(k)s.

Over the past few years, I've tested a number of smart air conditioners, smart thermostats, and fans, so I've found a few things that really help to keeping myself, my family, and my house at a comfortable temperature.

In the house

Keeping cool for the summer

My house doesn't have central air, so we rely on window air conditioners to keep things cool during the summer. It offers me an excellent opportunity to test the best smart air conditioners; I've been using the LG Dual Inverter window air conditioner for about seven years now, and it's shown no signs of stopping.

Even though I don't have central air, I do have an Ecobee Premium smart thermostat, which controls the heat in the winter. However, during the summer months, I can still put it — and its remote sensors — to use, by creating a smart home routine to activate my window air conditioners if things get too hot.

For example, my attic doubles as my office, so there's a lot of electronics up there. If I'm not around, I want to make sure things don't overheat, but I don't want to use a ton of energy cooling it to what I would consider comfortable. So, I created a smart home routine that will cool my attic to around 85 degrees F, but only if no one is up there.

Of course, you can use lots of different devices to act as remote temperature sensors, such as the Amazon Echo Dot. My colleague, Anthony Spadafora, has even used one to monitor the temperature in his garage to keep it cool.

You can also use a less expensive sensor, like the $9 IKEA Timmerflotte. The latter is even Matter-compatible, and while others have had difficulty in connecting IKEA's new smart home devices, I was able to add them pretty easily to my Apple Home setup. I tried all of IKEA's smart home devices, and two really stood out to me.

Wife check

The biggest issue with the LG air conditioner? It's super-heavy (around 90 pounds), so I need my wife's help to put it in the window, and then take it out in the fall. To ease her (and my) burden), I decided to test the Dreo 740S portable air conditioner — the first portable model I've tested.

I've had it installed since early June, and it's seen us through a couple of heat waves, where the outside temperature was in the upper 90s. But while I've been pleased with its performance (and the fact that I can simply wheel it around), my wife pointed out that its hoses not only take up a ton of space, but they don't really look great, either.

Yes, it's far easier to install, and it's one of the most efficient portable air conditioners, but aesthetics do matter. It's not something I might have noticed on my own, which is why it's been great to have a second opinion.

Making your yard work

What about staying cool outdoors? Last summer, I put two smart coolers to the test, and the Anker Solix Everfrost 2.0 came out on top for its rollable design and much longer battery life.

I'm still using it this summer; I recently hosted an outdoor watch party for a World Cup soccer match, and filled the cooler with beer and other beverages for my neighbors. Just make sure not to leave it out in the rain; I did that once, and messed up one of the charging ports. Fortunately, the rest of the cooler was unaffected, but I do wish it was a little more weather resistant, given its price.

Kid-tested

My kid doesn't always like her air conditioner on — she says it makes too much noise — but what she does like is a small portable fan right by her bed. She's been using the Switchbot Circulator fan, which is surprisingly silent, even at its maximum speed. The fan can oscillate and tilt, be set on a timer, and even has a nightlight.

The fan can be plugged in or run on battery power depending on the model that you get, and can be controlled either by pressing buttons on the fan's base, using the remote, or via Switchbot's app (she's already lost the remote).

And, because it's a connected device, I can also use it in smart home routines to turn on automatically if the temperature in a room gets too hot. Just note that to use the smart features, you also have to buy a Switchbot hub, which will run you an extra $50.

Pet corner

Keeping the pets cool

As the owners of 2.75 pets — two cats and a dog with a missing leg — we like to find ways to keep them happy and healthy, while making less work for us.

I've been using the Petsafe Drinkwell water fountain now for six years, and it's mostly held up. Both the cats and the dogs have been using it with no complaints, though I have had to make some modifications to it over the years.

Inside the fountain, there's a pump at the bottom which connects to a filter, and then to a pipe which pumps the water up to the top of the fountain. After a few years, the connection between the filter and the pipe loosened a bit, which meant that water did not flow upwards as easily.

As a result, the water did not flow out the top of the fountain with as much force, so the waterfall was more like a dribble, and when it landed below, it didn't hit the diffuser. Instead, it hit the water in the basin, which makes a ton of noise — it's like when your kid leaves the faucet running.

I tried a few things to fix this. First, I hot-glued the connection between the pipe and the filter, but that only worked temporarily. I ultimately just cut a piece of a plastic milk carton and taped it to the top of the fountain, so that the water would hit the right spot. It's not pretty, but it works.

Petsafe no longer makes the fountain I tested, but the Petsafe Oasys looks to be the closest successor. It comes in multiple sizes; the 2-gallon model works for both cats and dogs.

Have your say

Do you have any questions about what devices you should get, or how to best use them in your home? Are there any topics you'd like to see me cover? Let me know by dropping me a line.

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Cleaning my oven is one of those jobs I always put off. It just seem so laborious that I end up delaying cleaning it at all, which only makes it so much worse. I've found myself staring at oven cleaning products, unsure which one to choose and worrying about how toxic they are or how much elbow grease I'll need to put in to actually achieve results I'm pleased with. Unsurprisingly with all this overthinking, I end up giving up before I've even started.

But, then I saw a TikTok hack that suggested I would only need to use two items which I already happen to own (and it's likely you do too). With just a bottle of Cif and some cling wrap to hand, it seemed like a very affordable way to get my oven clean and the video I saw also made it look so simple. But... is it really that easy? Here's what happened when I tried it.

How does it work?

TikTok page, @cleanipedia_uk, posts expert cleaning hacks and tips by Unilever to its almost 70k followerss. But, it's this specific oven cleaning hack (featured above) that really caught my eye.

Using just Cif and some cling wrap, both of which are budget-friendly, it demonstrates that your oven can go from caked in built-up grease to completely clean (apparently). And all it takes is just five simple steps.

To follow this hack, you can:

• Apply Cif Cream to your oven door
• Cover with cling wrap and spread the cream underneath
• Wait for around an hour
• Remove the cling wrap and scrub with a non-abrasive sponge
• Wipe away everything with a damp microfibre cloth

While users in the comments were worried that the Cif would leave a smell, Cleanipedia replied: "Just make sure you wipe and rinse properly!" And some users suggested you should just be cleaning your oven whenever you use it.

For me, as much as I want to be a person that remembers to clean their oven every time it gets used, I'll never remember to go back after it's cooled down. Inevitably, my oven just keeps getting dirtier. So, a hack like this seems like a good alternative.

Here's what happened when I tried it

Armed with my bottle of Cif, some cling wrap and a dream, I thought I'd give it a go. Now, I'm aware that my oven is a bit of a mess, hence needing a TikTok hack like this to hopefully save me. And following five steps seemed simple enough – and it was.

I applied my Cif Cream and covered it in cling wrap, which took about 1 minutes (2 when wrestling with the cling wrap tube) and I decided to leave it for an hour, as recommended.

After an hour, I went back to my oven and I was a little concerned that it didn't look like the Cif was infiltrating the grease the way the video had shown. As Cleanipedia suggests though, the longer you leave it the better, so I left it for another hour before returning to give it a scrub.

I'll start by saying I was surprised about how much elbow grease was still needed to clean off the grease, but I was ultimately still impressed that it took away a lot of the grease from the main part of the door.

As you can see from the picture above though, it didn't tackle the caked-on grease nearly as well as I'd hoped. But, I'm not done trying this method. I'll leave it on for much longer next time and I'll make sure my sponge is a little more ready to scour.

It's definitely something I'll be trying again and I loved how easy it was. I also felt more comfortable leaving the Cif on the oven door for a length of time when I knew it was covered up. It was easy to forget about and if I'd forgotten about it for longer, maybe I would've gotten better results.

More from Tom's Guide

• Skip the baking soda and vinegar — I used this non-toxic substance to clean through my oven's grime, and I'm speechless
• This vinegar steam trick will rid your oven of grease and grime — here's how to do it
• How to remove oven glass stains without leaving a single scratch using this one natural solution

While their distinctive black-and-white coats are easily identifiable, skunks are rarely welcomed as backyard friends. Instead, they are often dismissed as garden pests.

Their reputation for being stinky creatures far outweighs their striking appearance, an annoyance only amplified by the mess they make digging up lawns in search of grubs.

How to tell if a skunk’s been in your backyard

Even if you don’t spot a skunk in broad daylight, they leave clear signs behind. Brandon Runyon, entomologist at Swat Pest Management, says, “You may see signs of digging, knocked-over trash cans, and even smell that a skunk’s been about.”

According to Angelika Zaber, lawn care specialist and gardening expert at Online Turf, skunks typically dig 3-4-inch holes in lawns as they scratch around for grubs. And she also warns that the animals’ unpleasant sulfur-like spray can penetrate clothing or furniture that’s left outside.

If you keep livestock in your backyard, keep an eye on your coops. Zaber adds that skunks will target poultry and eat their eggs — a crime you can detect by an eggshell opened at one end, with the edges crushed inward.

What do skunks eat?

Runyon explains that these black-and-white creatures are omnivores, obtaining energy and nutrients from both plant and animal matter. This leaves a whole host of opportunities for skunks in your backyard.

Apart from devouring fallen nuts and fruit in your yard, he says they’ll also knock over trash cans to find food and will wreak havoc on your lawn, digging up Japanese beetles, beetle grubs and earthworms.

What’s more, if you leave out cat and dog food for stray animals or your pets, you’re inviting skunks to tuck in.

Where do skunks shelter?

While the skunks are causing havoc in your yard, rooting for food, they may also be looking for a suitable den. “This could be under your deck, your shed, your porch, or any other place where they can burrow, such as thick brush, wood piles and leaf piles,” explains Runyon.

To deter them, Zaber recommends fixing any spaces that they can call home.

Skunk deterrents

There are natural repellents you can use at home to deter skunks, although Runyon says they’re not long-term fixes. Instead, both experts recommend the following measures.

1. Stop skunks from entering
Place a big defender around your fence line to keep skunks from digging into your yard.

2. Cover up your trash
Keep the lids on your trash cans and secure them with locks if practical. If your trash can is knocked over, the contents won’t spill out if the lid is securely in place.

3. Reduce potential den sites
Tidy up your backyard and remove any wood piles and leaf litter where skunks can make a den. Then, secure any other potential hideouts by closing up gaps beneath sheds and houses.

4. Protect your lawn
Newly laid lawns are particularly attractive to skunks, as they are often well-watered and have plenty of grubs. To reduce both skunk and grub activity, apply a grub treatment and water your lawn correctly.

5. Keep pet food inside
Avoid leaving pet food outside for any length of time, and if you can feed your animals inside your house.

Friend or foe?

While you might prefer to banish skunks from your yard, Back to the Wild, a wildlife sanctuary in Ohio, recognizes what skunks have to offer.

In an Instagram post, the sanctuary shares, “These nocturnal neighbors help control insect and rodent populations, and they actually help protect lawns, gardens and native plant life.

"They’re shy, peaceful animals that would much rather avoid you than confront you. So if you spot a skunk wandering through your yard, don’t panic! You may have a tiny pest-control specialist working the night shift.”

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More from Tom's Guide

• 7 ways to get rid of groundhogs without hurting them
• 3 common backyard bugs that are actually helping — not hurting — your plants
• 7 natural aphid deterrents to prevent infestation in your yard

The Nespresso Vertuo Up is the newest Nespresso machine as of July 2026. It brings back the iconic Nespresso plug-and-play brew style with an added “Over Ice” mode and app functionality. Yes, this coffee machine connects to my phone, and I’m actually not mad about it.

But is this enough to make it one of the best Nespresso machines you can get? Heck, yeah! I loved testing this machine. It’s as easy as pie — or, as easy as Nespresso — and doesn’t look particularly hideous while doing it. Of course, it’s not as premium as the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista, but it’s also $400 cheaper.

I had a great time testing this machine, and so did my colleagues. One of my colleagues drank four cups of coffee in one day during my testing period — that’s how good it is. Want to find out more about the new Nespresso machine? Why wouldn’t you? Keep reading this Nespresso Vertuo Up review.

Nespresso Vertuo Up review: Specs

Nespresso Vertuo Up review: Price & availability

The Nespresso Vertuo Up is $229 from Amazon U.S. and £179 from Amazon U.K.. Nespresso makes two lines of machines: original and Vertuo. Of the Vertuo collection, the Up is the most premium. If you want similar performance for less, you’d be looking at the $189 Vertuo Next or the $129 Vertuo Pop+.

Vertuo machines are generally cheaper than original Nespresso machines. This is because Vertuo pods are patented, whereas original Nespresso pods are not. Ergo, Nespresso charges less for the initial machine, but more for the pods… so you might end up paying more over time.

The Nespresso CitiZ ($265) is my favorite original Nespresso machine, but you can still get the three-year-old Nespresso Pixie ($229). Of course, neither of these machines have app connectivity, so you can’t adjust the heat or size of your drinks.

Nespresso Vertuo Up review: Design

The Nespresso Vertuo Up, like other Nespresso machines, is compact and ideal for small spaces. As it’s just 4.7 inches wide, I was able to fit it in my kitchen with zero stress.

However, it’s worth noting that it needs a decent amount of overhead clearance — the pod release comes up 5 inches, giving it an overall height of 15.9 inches. Because of this, I wouldn’t recommend putting it under low-lying cabinets.

One of my favorite design features is the rotating water tank. Unlike other Nespresso machines (CitiZ), the water tank can fit on the back or on either side, so you can adapt the machine to fit your space rather than the other way around.

Of course, the Vertuo Up is relatively plasticky. It is a Nespresso machine, after all. If you want a more premium aesthetic, I’d recommend checking out the eye-wateringly expensive Vertuo Creatista ($699).

Another “it is a Nespresso machine, after all” design feature is the minimal on-machine controls. Instead of levers, buttons, and dials you might find on espresso machines like the De’Longhi Stilosa ($149) or Breville Bambino ($299), the Vertuo Up has just two buttons: “Ice” and “Go”. Those aren’t the official names, of course, but they explain what I mean well enough.

If you’re using “Over Ice” pods (like I was), you’ll need to press the “Ice” button before “Go”. Otherwise, you’ll get a hot drink. Obviously, this is great if you want to stick it to the man and brew a hot coffee using “Over Ice” pods, but, as I experienced, pods designed for iced drinks don’t taste great hot.

Unlike Nespresso original machines, you can’t choose between an espresso or lungo shot. Each Vertuo pod has a specific dosage volume: for example, the Coconut & Vanilla is a 230ml “mug”, whereas the Yuzu & Vanilla is an 80ml “double shot”. You can kind of adjust volumes with the NespressoSmart app (more on that later), but you can’t do it on the machine itself. This is a little frustrating, and I’d like to see Nespresso utilize on-machine buttons to correct this in the future, as not everyone wants or needs the Nespresso app on their phone.

Nespresso Vertuo Up review: Performance

The Nespresso Vertuo Up is supremely easy to use. I’ll say it for the third time: it is a Nespresso machine, after all. These things are revered for their ease of use and simplicity.

All you have to do is insert the pod of your choice and press “Go”. That’s it. The pod starts spinning like an errant hair caught in a plughole, and thirty seconds later, you’ve got a fresh coffee.

I will say that the Vertuo Up is incredibly loud: it peaked at 70.9dB. It was so loud, in fact, I had colleagues come up to me and say things like, “Oh, that’s a bit of a screamer, isn’t it?” Yes. Yes it is.

Even so, this isn’t a dealbreaker for me. I’m using the machine for, what, a minute? I can put up with 71dB for a minute in exchange for fresh coffee.

Taste is tricky to evaluate because different pods taste different, and different people have different palates. I tested the Vertuo Up with the Yuzu & Vanilla, Coconut & Vanilla, and Oatly Barista Edition Over Ice pods. They all tasted great, with zero burned or bitter notes (except once).

Let me elaborate. I’ll preface this by saying this is purely user error. This is simply advice to you — not an issue with the Vertuo Up at all. I mistakenly brewed the Yuzu & Vanilla pod hot rather than “Over Ice”; it tasted super bitter, with a really frothy crema. It was, put simply, not good. So learn from my mistakes and follow the instructions on the pod packaging!

The only real con I have with the Nespresso Vertuo Up is its tendency to leak before extraction. After inserting a pod and pressing “Go”, the machine leaks around half a teaspoon of coffee into the cup, presumably leftover coffee stuck in the dispensing nozzle from the previous brew. Kinda gross. Although I’m sure this didn’t majorly impact the flavor of my subsequent coffee, it’s worth noting. I’d like to see Nespresso rectify this for the next model, whenever that may be. There’s no “clean” option between drinks.

Nespresso Vertuo Up review: App

I’m usually an app hater, but I really like the NespressoSmart app. It actually benefits the user experience.

As you can see, the app is clean, easy to use, and user-friendly. I can see even the most technophobic person on the planet being able to make the most of this app. You can change the volume of your pods, change water temperature, run cleaning cycles, run water emptying cycles, and look up instruction manuals.

Of course, I would like to see some on-machine controls for these settings as not everyone wants or needs to download an app to use a coffee machine, but as far as apps go, this is a decent one.

The only downside is that the app asks you for full contact information while signing up. You have to put in your full name, email, full address, and phone number. Why? Why does the app need this info for me to customize my espresso? I just wrote “No” in all the address boxes, put a random zip code, and a fake number and it let me make the account, but this is still annoying.

Nespresso Vertuo Up review: Storage & maintenance

As this is a Vertuo machine, replacement pods are only available from Nespresso’s official Amazon store and Nespresso direct. This is disappointing. I wanted to buy some extra pods and visited my local grocery store (a large store with tons of products, including Nespresso pods), but it only stocked original pods. After a quick Google, I discovered that I could only buy these specific pods online.

Therefore, you’ll need some pre-planning to ensure you don’t run out of pods. The price of pods is also quite different from original Nespresso pods. A 30-pack of OG Nespresso pods retails for $27, working out to $0.90 per pod. Vertuo pods are $40.50 for the same sized pack, $1.35 per pod. The pods I personally tested with were around $1.25-$1.55 per pod.

So while the Vertuo machines are cheaper from the off, you might actually spend more money over time. Let’s quickly do some coffee math. Say you’re spending $13 extra a month (if you drink one a day). There’s a $36 price difference between the Vertuo Up and the Citiz. After 3 months, you’ll have spent that extra $36 on Nespresso’s patented Vertuo pods.

Personally, I would always buy an original Nespresso machine for this reason, but of course, the decision is up to you.

Cleaning the machine is straightforward: there are detailed instructions in the app and you can start cleaning cycles from your phone. You can also buy cleaning kits directly from the app: a descaling kit is $10.99 for two sachets.

Alright, last but not least: pod recycling. Of course, not buying single-use pods is inherently more environmentally friendly than buying single-use pods, but at least you can recycle Nespresso pods. You can either get a recycling bag direct from Nespresso, return your pods to Nespresso stores, or drop off your pods at select convenience stores.

Nespresso Vertuo Up review: Verdict

The Nespresso Vertuo Up is a really great Nespresso machine. It’s beyond easy to use, looks pretty good, and the app is genuinely useful. While it’s not perfect, hence the 4-star rating, it’s bound to make any hands-free coffee lover happy. My colleagues all remarked on its ease of use and pleasant coffee flavor.

Sure, I’d appreciate some on-machine controls for the next gen and I’d appreciate more pod options, but if you want to save that initial cost with a Vertuo, this is a pretty good one to get. It can make iced and hot coffees in seconds, and never made a bad brew (except my experiment).

I recommend the Nespresso Vertuo Up for anyone interested in upgrading an old Nespresso machine, anyone who particularly likes having smart control features on their coffee machine, or, simply, anyone who wants hot (or cold) coffee and wants it now.

The Ulike ReGlow LED face mask is a great way for skincare fanatics to boost their skincare routine. As someone who spends a good 20 minutes in the bathroom every morning (and night) applying various toners and creams, an LED face mask was the natural progression for my routine.

I’ve found the ReGlow useful for tackling breakouts and evening out my skin tone. The four light settings make me feel like I can fine-tune the routine depending on my changing skin needs. And I appreciate the 360º mirroring to make sure I’m hitting my whole face.

However, the hard shell design is uncomfortable during long sessions and makes the mask particularly difficult to store. It also becomes warm with extended use. To find out more, you can keep reading this full Ulike ReGlow review.

Ulike ReGlow review: Specs

Ulike ReGlow review: Price & availability

The Ulike ReGlow LED face mask is available for purchase from Amazon U.S. for $399 and from Amazon U.K. for £199. However, U.K. pricing has fluctuated between $159 and $349 over time, so it’s a good idea to look out for this mask during sales events. The official U.K. pricing on the Ulike website is £349.

Like with most at-home beauty treatments, such as IPL machines, an LED face mask is a big investment. There are more expensive ones on the market, too, like the Flikeze PhotonMask Quint LED face mask for $459. The Flikeze has a soft silicone design, so the mask molds to your face. This will be more comfortable for longer sessions, though the hard shell of the Ulike is comfortable enough for short treatment sessions.

Another soft mask currently being tested by the Tom’s Guide team is the Project E Beauty LumaLux Face ($369), which has 800 LEDs. The Ulike ReGlow, on the other hand, only has 272 LED beads. More LEDs mean a more uniform skin coverage and, therefore, better consistency with the treatments. However, the Ulike mask is mirrored to ensure the lights are reflected all over your face, so not all is lost.

One of the most popular masks on the market is the Shark CryoGlow, which is cheaper than the ULike at $349. The Shark mask comes in a range of colors and has built-in under-eye cooling pads to enhance the pampering experience.

Ulike ReGlow review: Design

As you’ll no doubt notice, the Ulike ReGlow is anything but subtle. My neighbors probably had serious concerns if they looked through the window to see my face glowing.

Like the popular Shark CryoGlow, the Ulike ReGlow is a hard mask, so if it doesn’t fit your face, that’s just tough luck. My colleague Erin was using the mask before it was passed on to me, and it wasn’t the right fit for her. However, she’s since tried out the Project E Beauty LumaLux Face, which is a much better fit thanks to its soft silicone design.

While the ReGlow was a good fit for me, after each treatment cycle, it started to feel very tight around my eyes. When doing two sessions back to back, I was left with scuba diving-style marks on my face.

The mask is secured with a padded strap around the back of the head, but unfortunately the mask can’t be slackened once fitted. That's because the inside is mirrored and would direct the light into my eyes — obviously not good. The inside uses 360° mirror technology, so although there are only 272 LEDs (compared to the 800 of other masks like the LumaLux), the light is directed all over your face. This aims to provide a more even coverage of light.

Storage of the mask is tricky. Since the mask is hard, you essentially have to find somewhere to store a head. I found this to be harder than I thought. It doesn’t fit into drawers, so it just sits in the corner of my room watching me sleep… creepy.

Controls

The mask is powered by the control pack, which plugs into the chin via USB-C. You hold the large button to turn the mask on and then press the arrow to cycle through the settings. This is very easy, and you get a small light by each setting to indicate which option is being used.

The different settings emit specific frequencies of light to penetrate skin layers, stimulate cells, and promote collagen production. There are four settings on the mask, and their functions are as follows:

Ulike ReGlow review: Performance

I tried out all the settings on the Ulike ReGlow mask to see what works for my skin and was impressed with the results. Ulike recommends using the mask three times a week with one to two modes per session, but not exceeding 20 minutes.

I wasn’t expecting the Firm setting to be effective for my skin. At the ripe age of 21, a man pointed at a line on my forehead and asked me how old I was — he was quite the charmer. But that fine line has always been there, even in my elementary school photos. The only explanation is the kind of extreme stress that only comes from holding too much real estate in the sandbox. I didn’t expect the mask to help with this. And as for the rest of my skin, I’m 24 now and pretty comfortable with where I’m at, so I don’t really need the Firm setting.

The Glow mode brightens the skin, although I couldn’t see a huge difference when I implemented this mode into my sessions. I use a lot of brightening products in my skincare routine anyway, so perhaps someone with a more basic skincare routine would see a bigger difference here.

I enjoyed using the Rejuvenate mode as it evened out my complexion the most. However, since this cycle is eight minutes long, I noticed the mask getting a little warm by the end of the treatment session.

My favorite setting on the mask is Clear. I used this to halve the time my breakouts usually last. It works to kill bacteria on the face and reduce redness. The effect was literally immediate.

Overall, I would say that my skin appears to be more even after consistently using the mask, and using it for breakouts has become a complete game changer as someone who suffers from stress acne, weather changes, and hormonal fluctuations.

Ulike ReGlow review: Battery life

Ulike doesn’t specify any battery life information available for the ReGlow, but from my testing, I got around 20 sessions before needing to charge up again. These sessions varied in length between five and eight minutes, and I used the mask three times a week — meaning over 6 weeks of use.

The controller for the mask acts as a portable battery pack, so you’re not recharging the mask itself but the controller. The controller fully charges via a USB-C-to-USB-A cable in around three hours.

Ulike ReGlow review: Verdict

The Ulike ReGlow has been a calming addition to my skincare routine. While it’s an investment at almost $399, I’ve found it to be a useful tool in the arsenal when battling breakouts and great for evening out my skin's complexion. There’s a good selection of settings to deal with different skin worries, and the 360º mirroring technology was very effective at ensuring the light was hitting all of my skin.

However, unless you have a flatter face shape, the hard shell design limits comfort, and the goggle section can leave marks. The mask is tricky to store because of the hard shell. I also noticed that after two sessions the mask became warm, although you’re not advised to use it for longer than 20 minutes.

Overall, this is a decent way to super-boost your existing skincare routine… as long as you have the right face shape and space to store it.

Flavor 1: Yuzu & Vanilla Over Ice

Nespresso always seems to be cooking up something exciting. So what's happening this summer 2026? Not only have we got the brand-new Nespresso Vertuo Up, one of the best Nespresso machines, we've also got...

Summer Nespresso flavors! I tried three of the new flavors — Yuzu & Vanilla Over Ice, Coconut Vanilla Over Ice, and Oatly Barista Edition. I didn't get a chance to try out the new decaf French Lavender & Vanilla, but this is a super fun flavor. Usually, decaf drinkers don't get as many options, so it's great to see Nespresso remember our non-caffeinated brethren.

So, which of the new Nespresso summer flavors is worth it? Does it actually taste like yuzu? Don't fear, because I'll answer all your questions and more. I made all of these drinks on the new Nespresso Vertuo Up.

First up is the one I'm most excited for: the Yuzu & Vanilla Over Ice. This pod makes 80ml, a "double espresso", and I served it both black and with milk. While milk brought out a creamy, almost cheesecake-like flavor, just water tasted light and clean.

The first photo is black, the second is with oat milk.

The flavor: The yuzu flavor is really subtle. If you're worried about it being a wall of citrus, don't be. The coffee, vanilla, and yuzu notes are complementary, rather than battling one another for dominance. It tastes more like a coffee with a whisper of lemon than anything else.

If you like juicy, fruity drinks, like African coffee beans or Starbucks Pink Drink, you'll probably like this a lot.

Flavor 2: Coconut & Vanilla Over Ice

Next is Coconut & Vanilla Over Ice. This pod is a little different as it makes a 230ml "coffee" rather than an 80ml "double espresso". You don't need to add anything except ice.

Here's a photo of the Nespresso Coconut & Vanilla Over Ice.

The flavor: Just like the Nespresso Yuzu & Vanilla Over Ice, Coconut & Vanilla is subtle and delicate. You might not even know it's supposed to be vanilla flavored without reading the packet. I like the caramelly mouthfeel — the drink is smooth and warming even though it's completely iced — and the coconut does well to round out the coffee.

I'd say this tastes more like an iced batch brew with a little brown sugar than a coconut milk coffee. I was worried it would be too coconutty, but it's not. This coffee is better for people who want a subtle toasty flavor rather than a coconut milk latte. I really enjoyed it, but I think I would prefer a bolder coconut taste.

Flavor 3: Oatly Barista Edition

As an oat milk fanatic, I was surprised and pleased to see an Oatly Barista Edition Nespresso pod. Those who know me will know I go through a carton of the stuff every few days.

This pod brews an 80ml "double shot" and is designed to be made iced.

Here are two photos of the Oatly Barista Edition over ice. The first photo uses oat milk and the second was made with dairy milk.

The flavor: This was my favorite of the three by far. This pod has a strong, malty coffee flavor. The beans are rich and caramelly with zero bitterness. There's no whisper of yuzu or coconut. It tastes like coffee — in the best way possible.

This would be the best pod if you like flat whites or cortados.

My rankings

Alright, after much deliberation, I've finally settled on my Nespresso pod ranking.

1. Oatly Barista Edition
2. Yuzu & Vanilla
3. Coconut & Vanilla

More from Tom's Guide

• I tried this ridiculously cheap bean-to-cup espresso machine so you don't have to — and it's a total head-scratcher
• Non-plastic coffee makers are trending — and this low-plastic Ratio model is my favorite for coffee snobs
• I tried Lelit's brand-new 'entry-level' espresso machine — and I wish I had $2,000 so I could buy it

There's something wonderfully reassuring about gardening methods that have survived centuries. While modern gadgets and chemicals promise quick fixes, the approaches our grandparents relied on still deliver.

These techniques are rooted in a deep, intuitive understanding of how a garden actually grows. It is practical knowledge, proven generation after generation, that creates a truly resilient and beautiful plot.

Here are seven timeless rules worth bringing back to your garden.

What’s the single best piece of gardening wisdom you've learned? Maybe it's a quirky trick for sweeter tomatoes, a natural pest remedy, or a simple rule for reading the weather. Tell us in the comments below!

More from Tom's Guide

• How to get endless hollyhock blooms every single summer (with zero effort)
• 11 secrets to a lawn that’s greener than your neighbor's
• Double your tomato harvest — the 3-step pruning system for massive yields

With temperatures soaring, we’re not the only ones who are feeling parched — our plants are also bearing the brunt of extreme temperatures. Beyond simply adjusting your seasonal lawn care routine, it is vital to adopt strategies that ensure your plants can withstand the heatwave.

Whether you have favorite houseplants, raised beds, or tasty tomato plants, you’ll need to know how to protect them in scorching temperatures. If not, your plants will struggle in the sun and eventually die. Luckily, we’ve got a gardening expert at hand to offer a few top tips that can help your plants thrive and survive the summer.

1. Water at the right time of day

While it might be tempting to water your plants more when the weather is scorching, timing is actually everything.

Experts advise watering your garden either in the early morning or the evening once temperatures are cooler. By watering during these cooler hours, your plants can soak up the water rather than just evaporating.

“When it comes to watering, it’s important to water deeply at the coolest points of the day,” states Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.

“If it’s too hot, the water will just evaporate, and your plants won’t benefit.”

In addition, you should aim to give the roots a deep watering, as this will be much more effective than light and frequent watering.

And if you want to retain moisture for extended periods, add a layer of mulch around the base of your plants. “Adding a generous layer of mulch at the base of your plants will help improve the soil structure and will allow the soil to retain water for longer.”

So not only does it help to retain moisture in the soil, but acts as an insulator against the sun's UV rays.

If you want more top tips check out when you should replace mulch — and why it's essential.

2. Throw some shade

Another top tip is to move potted plants out of the sun and into shaded areas during the hottest part of the day. Just like us, this will provide our plants with some light relief and keep them cool.

“For plants that can’t be moved, or heavy pots, cover them with a shade cloth or make your own temporary one out of an old fitted bed sheet,” adds Bonnett.

Young or newly established plants will especially struggle in scorching temperatures — protect them by creating temporary cover with a shade cloth.

3. Stay away from fertilizers

A common mistake we often make is to add fertilizers to our wilting plants, but experts advise to steer clear of using in a heatwave.

“Stay away from fertilizing the lawn or plants during a heatwave,” agrees Bonnett. “Not only can they burn plants but fertilizers encourage new growth which can stress plants and cause them more harm than good.

Similarly, avoid pruning while the sun is at its peak. Cutting back growth now can place additional, unwanted pressure on your greenery — it is far better to hold off until the mercury begins to fall.

For more summer gardening tips, check out can you plant in a heatwave?

Gardening essentials we love

More from Tom's Guide

•  Here are 7 plants that will thrive in the shade 
•  Check out these 7 uses for ground cover plants 
•  Or these 7 ways to get more fruit from a tomato plant 

I love my kitchen, but there are some days when I want to replace every single utensil I own. I'm talking mismatched cutlery and crockery, a hard-to-clean stainless steel pan, and some ageing kitchen scales that have served me and my baking skills well over the last few years.

Upgrades like these are ones I've been putting off, simply because I don't have the means to replace everything. And I'm sure most of us would agree that it's easier to shove an old can opener or chipped plate back into the kitchen drawer than try to find a replacement.

Thankfully, it's Prime Day, and I've found 24 discounts on kitchen accessories, utensils and small appliances that will upgrade your kitchen for under AU$150 on Amazon. Granted, there's one item on this list — namely, the Corelle Portofino 18-piece dinner set — that is a bit above this price, at AU$159.20; however, I've had my eye on it for a while, and it's finally within my reach at AU$40 off RRP. And for an 18-piece set, that's only AU$8.80 per piece, which is a big win in my books.

Another great deal I've spotted is on Shark's Cordfree Handheld vacuum, now AU$135.85. While it may be a bit odd to put on a kitchen deals round up, I swear by my handheld vacuum for all the teeny crumbs and coffee grinds in my kitchen. Trust me, it is life-changing.

Don't just take my word for it, though — all these products come with 4+ star ratings, including those of my colleagues at Tom's Guide. Better yet, these deals are exclusive to Prime members, and if you're not signed up already, you can get a free 30-day trial here. You'll need to act fast to nab any of these kitchen deals, though, as they will expire on Monday, July 13, at 11:59pm.

As a kitchen and home appliance reviewer, there's no denying the infatuation I have with Ninja Kitchen. I have loved every product I've tried from the brand, from fun, novelty gadgets to actually practical, borderline normal gizmos. Late last year, Ninja's glass air fryer, the Ninja Crispi, launched in Australia, and I immediately got my hands on it.

After using mine for the past six months, I can honestly say that I swear by the Ninja Crispi every night for easy and deliciously crunchy dinners. And right now, my favourite air fryer is discounted by 37% on Amazon to just AU$188.

What really takes the cake with this discount is that it's the lowest price I've ever seen for the Crispi, undercutting the AU$196 rate on Christmas Day 2025. Better yet, this discount is for all three colourways: Cyberspace, Sage and Stone.

But the Ninja Prime Day discounts don't stop there, as the latest evolution, the Ninja Crispi Pro, is also discounted by 32% to just AU$341.05. The new air fryer only debuted last month in Australia, and this is the first discount I've clocked for the device.

Do note that these discounts are exclusive to Amazon Prime members – and you'll likely need to act fast, as the Prime Day sale ends on Monday, July 13.

In our Ninja Crispi review, we gave it a massive 4.5 stars, as it was super quiet and delivered surprisingly crispy results. Our reviewer was pleasantly surprised by the device, and found the gadget "reinvented the traditional air fryers" they've used in the past. As for the Crispi Pro, we gave it 4-stars, as we found it was a bit pricey to justify at full cost. However, this tidy 32% discount nips that in the bud.

While I haven't used the Crispi Pro as much as I'd like, I've really appreciated the simplicity and convenience that come with the Crispi. It's become an integral part of my daily routine — from frying up chicken tenders to roasting salmon perfectly, I've enjoyed every meal and side I've made with my Ninja Crispi. But something I've appreciated even more than the tasty results is the fact that I can pop a lid on my leftovers and chuck them in the fridge almost immediately.

Both of these sentiments easily extend to the Pro, as in my short time of having the device, I've thoroughly enjoyed making larger portions of my favourite dishes and using the Pro to help with meal prepping for the week ahead.

The key differences between the air frying pair are that the Crispi Pro comes with three borosilicate containers instead of two, and uses a sliding mechanism to slot into the base, rather than using the Crispi base as a lid. Further, the Pro offers more control over temperature settings, whereas the Crispi has four preset modes to choose from. The timer on both the Crispi and Crispi Pro can be adjusted in minute increments, and you can also add or reduce your cooking time.

But no matter what model you choose, let the Ninja Crispi be the airfryer for you.

Just when I thought this flagship gaming chair couldn’t get any better, Razer has released its upgraded Iskur V2 NewGen. While the V2 had plenty of improvements, this new model features a comfier yet more supportive dual-density cold-cured foam cushion and upgraded EPU synthetic leather with built-in cooling tech.

I still remember trying out the Iskur V2 during my first trip to CES and walking away very impressed with its upgraded lumbar support system. The Iskur V2 NewGen isn’t a complete redesign as it retains what made that model one of the best gaming chairs. Instead, it’s more of a refinement designed to be more comfortable while feeling significantly more premium.

Although I typically spend my days (and my nights) sitting in one of the best office chairs, the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen has been a nice change of pace. From the instant I sat in it, I really liked its stiffer backrest and wide, comfy seat. Likewise, it was a breeze to put together and locking in the perfect fit comes easily too, thanks to the knobs on either side and the lever to control its recline. Still though, this is a high-end gaming chair with a $649 price tag and unfortunately, there isn’t a fabric option like with most of Razer’s other chairs.

My Razer Iskur V2 NewGen review will help you decide if this is the right gaming chair for you or if you’d be better off going with the cheaper yet less full-featured Iskur V2 X instead.

Razer Iskur V2 NewGen: Cheat Sheet

• What is it? A premium gaming chair with a strong focus on ergonomics and cooling.
• Who is it for? People who want a very adjustable seat with dedicated lumbar support which they can use for long stretches at a time comfortably that still looks like a gaming chair.
• What does it cost? The Razer Iskur V2 NewGen costs $649 regardless of which colorway you choose.
• What do we like? The adaptive lumbar support system, the wider backrest and seat base, the extra thick foam seat cushion and how easy it is to adjust using the built-in lever and knobs.
• What don’t we like? That the upgraded synthetic leather can still feel hot after extended periods and the higher price compared to other similarly-specced gaming chairs.

Razer Iskur V2 NewGen: Specs

Razer Iskur V2 NewGen: The ups

The Razer Iskur V2 NewGen offers exactly what you’d expect from a premium gaming chair in terms of design and comfort. However, it doesn’t skimp on ergonomics either with an adjustable lumbar support system that moves with your back as you shift in your chair while gaming or even working from home.

A color-coded build

The Razer Iskur V2 NewGen arrived in a single large brown box with everything packed neatly inside. While I wish it came as pre-assembled as the more expensive Herman Miller Vantum, it was surprisingly simple to put together.

With everything unpacked, I was left with the Iskur V2 NewGen’s backrest, frame, seat, casters and the rest of the parts needed to assemble it. One thing I really liked is that the armrests did come pre-attached, which is a nice touch given how tedious installing them yourself can be.

While other companies will often have you scan a QR code to view their assembly instructions online, Razer includes a large printout with key steps highlighted in the company’s signature Razer green. Speaking of which, you also get a pair of black gloves with that same accent color in the box so you don’t get any grease on your hands when installing the chair’s lift mechanism.

Building the Iskur V2 NewGen was a straightforward process using the included Allen wrench. I’d say the hardest part was connecting the seat to the backrest but honestly, this was quite easy to do compared to some of the office chairs I’ve built over the years.

With the Iskur V2 NewGen fully assembled, it was time to take it for a spin.

Wider all around

When looking at the Iskur V2 NewGen, it’s hard not to notice its curves. In fact, this gaming chair almost has an hourglass figure since it’s skinniest at the center where the seat meets the backrest and extends out in either direction.

This was intentional on Razer’s part as a big focus of this NewGen refresh is comfort. The chair is just under 16 inches at its skinniest point. However, the seat extends out to 20.9 inches at its edge while the backrest goes even wider at 21.3 inches. The extended seat allows you to sit cross-legged in this gaming chair while the extended backrest provides plenty of room for those with wider shoulders.

As someone on the smaller side at 5’4”, I still found this extra space to be quite nice to have. I had plenty of room as I shifted from side to side in the Iskur V2 NewGen’s seat and the same was true for my shoulders when my back leaned from left to right.

While I would have preferred a magnetic head cushion like on the Secretlab Titan Evo, I did find the included one made from sculpted memory foam to be quite comfortable even for long stretches. However, I did swap it for the Razer Clio when playing PS5 at my desk since I had a pair of Razer Nommo V2 Pro speakers connected to my gaming PC via USB-C and to my Switch 2 over Bluetooth.

Just the pull of a lever

One thing I really prefer with the Iskur V2 NewGen over some of the more over-designed office chairs I regularly test is the simplicity of its adjustments. Fine-tuning this chair for the perfect fit only takes a few minutes and the more complicated adjustments come with illustrations to further simplify the process.

There are adjustment knobs on the left and right side — but more on that later — and a lever that controls the chair’s recline. Everything is right there within reach and I never had to get out of the Iskur V2 NewGen to make adjustments.

The chair also comes with 4D armrests that you can move up or down, forward or backward, closer or farther away from you and angled inward or outward. Unlike some of the 4D or even 6D armrests I’ve tested on office chairs, I really like how the ones on the Iskur V2 NewGen stay firmly in place. One of my biggest gripes with Herman Miller’s Vantum gaming chair is that I’d need to readjust the pads of its armrests almost every time I sat down.

Given that a lot of office chairs require you to unlock a lever and then lean back whenever you want to recline, the larger, handbrake-style lever on the right side of the Iskur V2 NewGen was a welcome change for me. I’d just hold onto the lever and lean back to my preferred recline position with it in my hand.

Although I spent a lot of my time gaming upright while trying out the Iskur V2 NewGen, I did put its recline to the test while using the Razer Kishi Ultra and my Lenovo Legion Tab 3 for some remote gaming.

While an integrated footrest like on the Hbada X7 or even a standalone one like with the LiberNovo Omni would have been nice, it was still quite comfortable playing some PC games using the Steam Link app while laying almost completely flat in the Iskur V2 NewGen.

Lumbar that moves with you

Just like with the Iskur V2, the adaptive lumbar support is one of the standout features of this gaming chair. After using it as my daily driver for the past two months, it’s easy to see why.

Unlike a traditional lumbar support mechanism, this one is able to move with you as you shift from side to side in the Iskur V2 NewGen. For instance, you can feel it move if you look over to either side from your desk. However, I found it to be even more useful in fast-paced games where I tend to move around a bit more than I normally would while working.

While the lumbar support systems in some of the office chairs I reviewed are completely static — meaning they don't pivot or track your spine dynamically as you shift — Razer's system lets you fine-tune its position both vertically and horizontally.

A knob on the left side of the Iskur V2 NewGen allows you to move the lumbar support up and down so it can perfectly align with the small of your back. The knob on the right side is what really impressed me with the original Iskur V2 and this refreshed model.

When you turn this knob, the lumbar support mechanism either extends or retracts. As 1HP’s Dr. Matthew Hwu explained to me a few years ago at Razer’s CES booth, if you tend to lean forward while playing the best PC games at your desk, then you might want to extend the Iskur V2 NewGen’s lumbar support all the way forward. That way, you can sit in your preferred gaming position without hurting your back.

As for me, while I did play some Death Stranding 2 on PC while seated in the Iskur V2 NewGen, I actually spent the majority of my time testing the chair out while playing Star Fox on the Nintendo Switch 2 ahead of my review. During those epic interstellar dog fights with Star Wolf, I put the chair’s adaptive lumbar support to good use as I dodged incoming enemy laser fire.

Razer Iskur V2 NewGen: The downs

The Razer Iskur V2 NewGen certainly performs as a gaming chair but it isn’t without its downsides which include its higher price and how the upgraded cooling tech in its EPU leather just can’t match mesh.

Cooler but still not cool enough

Since I live in Houston, Texas, using a mesh office chair like the Steelcase Karman or the more affordable Branch Aire Chair really isn’t an option — it’s a must.

Given we’re at the start of what’s already looking to be a very hot and humid summer, I was initially a bit reluctant about testing the Iskur V2 NewGen. However, since I tried and really liked the standard Iskur V2, I figured I’d see how well this chair’s new cooling tech performed in a less than ideal situation.

To make this refreshed chair cooler, Razer switched to a new version of its EPU synthetic leather which has CoolTouch fibers embedded within it. On paper, this sounds like it should really make a difference but in my testing, even this high-tech new material fell a bit short for me.

When I was using the Iskur V2 NewGen out in my game room with just a tower fan — alongside central air — to keep me cool, I found that I got sweaty faster than I normally would with a mesh office chair. It got so bad that I moved my Govee Smart Tower Fan 2 Max from in front of our couch over to my desk at the back of the room. That made things slightly better.

In my final week or so testing the Iskur V2 NewGen, I brought it into my office which has a large overhead fan. Maybe it’s due to the room being much smaller but this certainly made a difference.

Now, if you’re using the Iskur V2 NewGen in a more temperate climate, I doubt you’ll run into the issues I did with it. However, if you’re in a warmer and muggier location like I am, I’d recommend the Razer Fujin Pro, which is designed more like a mesh office chair than a traditional gaming chair.

Upgrading at a premium

At $649, the Iskur V2 NewGen is certainly an investment. However, if you have a bad back or want a chair with a wider seat and backrest, it could definitely be worth it. While you might look a tad silly in video calls, I found the Iskur V2 NewGen just as comfortable to work in as it was to game in.

If you’re after a premium gaming chair but want to pick one up at a slightly lower price, the Secretlab Titan Evo starts at $549 and unlike the Iskur V2 NewGen, it’s available in both fabric and leather. Then again, if you like the design of this chair and don’t necessarily need adaptive lumbar support or 4D armrests, you could always opt for the less expensive Razer Iskur V2 X NewGen for $349.

While the Iskur V2 NewGen is on the expensive side, it is cheaper than the Herman Miller Vantum which costs nearly $1,000. On the other hand though, the Vantum won’t look out of place in a video call for work as from the front, it looks just like any other mesh office chair.

Razer Iskur V2 NewGen: Verdict

The Razer Iskur V2 NewGen is an excellent gaming chair with a one-of-a-kind adaptive lumbar support system that makes a major difference every time you sit in it. While its high-tech EPU synthetic leather left a bit to be desired for me personally, this new material is still a significant upgrade over past versions and under the right conditions, it can keep you cool while gaming for longer. Likewise, the Iskur V2 NewGen is incredibly easy to put together and to fine-tune its adjustments to your liking.

If you’re looking for a traditional, racing-style gaming chair but still want the ergonomic support you get from an office chair, you’d be hard-pressed to find this level of comfort and polish anywhere else. Still, you are paying a bit more for the privilege. However, if you game for long hours daily or plan to have the Iskur V2 NewGen serve double duty as your work-from-home chair, then it could certainly be worth it.

ICYMI, it's Amazon Prime Day, and that means all the best deals can be found at the e-commerce retailer. Prices have been sliced across almost every category, including some of the best coffee machines.

Now, I don't necessarily consider myself a coffee snob, but I cannot begin to express how vital it is to start your day with a good cup o' joe. What's even more important, though, is having an excellent machine that does the job — and does it well.

Whether you prefer a fully automatic machine, with a built-in grinder and steam wand, or something a bit more manual, I've got you covered with my handpicked Prime Day coffee machine deals below. I've even listed some top-rated pod machines for those who prefer that one-touch convenience in the mornings.

Personally, I cannot live without my Ninja Luxe Cafe machine, and while it is currently out of stock, during Prime Day, it reached an all-time low price of AU$799.99 AU$524.20 in the Stainless Steel colourway. There's also a huge 62% off the beloved Nespresso Vertuo Pop in Mango Yellow, bringing it down to just AU$88.

I've also spotted some nice discounts on coffee-focused accessories, like a tidy 34% off a Le Creuset French Press, and 31% off Breville's Pro Control coffee grinder. If none of the deals below tickle your caffeine-fuelled fancy, make sure to check out our live Prime Day coverage to find more of the best coffee machine bargains available.

You'll need to act fast to secure these discounts, though, as Prime Day will come to an end on Monday, July 13, and these deals won't stick around long after.

Best coffee machine deals

Best coffee machine accessories

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Nothing beats the taste of homegrown tomatoes — freshly picked off the vine and thrown straight into your tasty meals. And even though these crops are considered the easiest to grow, it can be disappointing when you end up with more lush foliage than fruit.

This is especially true when you were looking forward to a juicy, flavorful harvest this summer. If your plants aren't producing, don't despair — there are several reasons behind your missing fruit and simple ways to get your crops back on track.

So, if you find yourself struggling with a plant that is all foliage and no fruit, these are the three most common pitfalls you might be making. Plus simple tips to ensure a bountiful harvest.

1. Choose the right variety for your climate

One key factor behind your lack of tomato harvest could be your climate. Typically, tomatoes thrive in temperatures between 75 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. And if your planting area is either too hot or too cool, your crops will struggle to flower properly, resulting in a disappointing lack of fruit.

If your plants continue to struggle with flowering and you haven’t seen any fruit in months, try switching to another variety that is more suited to your local weather conditions.

For those living in the sun-drenched South, choosing heat-tolerant types like Buffalosun, Cherokee Purple, Stellar, or Pink Delicious can help you secure a flavorful harvest.

Those in colder regions with limited summer windows should opt for hardy varieties such as Washington Cherry, Legend, and Sub-Arctic Plenty to ensure their plants thrive.

In addition, tomato flowers tend to self-pollinate once the flower opens. If the weather conditions are affected by excessive heat, cold, or moisture levels, the pollen from the male parts of the flower may not reach the female parts — affecting development.

One pro tip is to try giving your tomato stems a light shake as soon as the first blossoms come through, as this simple trick can help promote better fruit set.

For more planting tips, check out Tom's Guide to tomatoes for everything you need to know about growing a juicy harvest.

2. Give your tomatoes enough sun

Tomatoes are sun-loving plants and need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to help them produce more fruit. Without adequate sunshine, plants struggle to photosynthesize, and they will lack the energy to thrive.

As a result, this leads to tall, spindly growth, producing very few flowers and a sparse harvest of tomatoes to enjoy.

What’s more, low-light conditions are known to produce watery, bland fruit that lacks sweetness. So if you want to ensure juicy and flavorful fruit all season, let it soak up enough sun.

If you’re growing tomatoes in pots, it might be best to relocate them to a sunnier area in the home, and monitor the sun’s movement during growing season.

3. Watering tomatoes properly

While the summer heat might tempt you to reach for the hose more often, overwatering or under-watering your tomatoes can result in poor growth, wilting, and a lack of flowers and fruit.

The general rule of thumb is to water deeply and consistently when the top two inches of soil begin to dry. You can always check the soil for dryness before watering again with a water meter.

Plus, you’ll want to ensure your soil is kept in a healthy condition, free from disease or root rot, often triggered by overwatering. So a top tip is to add a rich, organic fertilizer like a layer of mulch around the base of the plants. Not only will it provide essential nutrients, but can act as a weed barrier, and prevent disease.

To get more out of your harvest this summer, check out when to fertilize tomatoes: the 3-step schedule for a bountiful harvest.

More from Tom's Guide

• How often should you water tomato plants and when should you do it?
• 3 ways to tell that your tomatoes are ready to harvest
• 7 ways to increase the yield from your tomato plants

Amazon’s Prime Day 2026 sale is roaring along with big cuts on tech and home gear, but there’s something about a good Lego set that still pulls me in. For all the flashy gadgets, nothing quite beats the calm of an afternoon spent clicking bricks together.

From big‑name favourites like Nintendo, Disney and DC to the Lego Botanical, Technic, Creator and Ideas lines, there are deals here for just about every kind of Lego fan — kids discovering their first build, adults chasing a challenge, and anyone who just loves tipping out a box of bricks and getting stuck in.

I’ve gone through all the Lego sets Amazon has marked down, and these are the ones that genuinely offer the best value right now. There’s plenty here for fans of Batman, Minecraft and The Legend of Zelda, along with classic builds for anyone who just loves a detailed, hands‑on project.

As always, you can check out a much larger list of discounted items on our Prime Day 2026 LIVE blog. If something catches your eye, don’t wait — these deals wrap up when Prime Day 2026 ends at 11:59pm AEST on July 13.

And remember, Amazon Prime members also get free expedited shipping, along with a bunch of other perks. If you’re not signed up yet, you can try Amazon Prime free for the first 30 days.

Prime Day 2026: best Lego deals

• 21 dryer, straightener and curler Prime Day deals are the ones that actually make the cut
• 19 best Prime Day running shoe deals you should chase down — up to 54% off Saucony, Hoka, Asics, Adidas and more

The best smart locks have long been a useful tool, but one of the biggest issues hampering their adoption has been battery life. Unlike most other smart home devices, smart locks have to operate without being plugged in, which means you have to change or recharge their batteries on a regular basis.

Now it seems that issue is being solved. I recently tested two smart locks that have solar panels built right into them. That means you never have to worry about your lock running out of juice and having to find an external power bank or the physical keys in order to do something as simple as get inside your own home.

The Desloc V150 Plus and Lockin Veno Solar offer some similar features, but actually vary more than you might expect. Here's a look at both of them, and what makes one better than the other.

Desloc V150 Plus vs. Lockin Veno Solar: Price and availability

The first major difference between these two locks is their price, and it's a pretty dramatic difference. While the Desloc V150 Plus has a Kickstarter price starting at $169. Its retail price is as high as $399.99. It will be available through retail channels starting in August, so if you want one it may be worth seeing if it's still available at a discount through Kickstarter.

The Lockin Veno Solar, by contrast, is available now, and it's dramatically cheaper when it comes to the retail price. There are actually two models available: one which has a face scanner and the other a palm vein scanner. I tested the face scanner, which put it on a more level playing field with the Desloc V150 Plus. Both models, however, cost $199 or around half the retail price of the Desloc. There's also a bundle with a door handle for $259.99.

Winner: Lockin Veno Solar

Specs

Desloc V150 Plus vs. Lockin Veno Solar: Design and setup

While the two locks don't look exactly the same, I wouldn't necessarily say that one of them looks much better than the other. Both of them definitely look like smart home gadgets, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but is worth noting for those who might want something more that leans more towards luxury.

The exterior portion of both of these blocks is a relatively bulky black rectangle made of metal and plastic. The Desloc V150 Plus has a large rectangular solar panel which sits in between the face scanner and a fingerprint scanner. It does not have a PIN pad.

By contrast, the Lockin Veno Solar does have a PIN pad, but there is no fingerprint scanner. Both locks have an interior portion that houses the battery and has a thumb latch for manual locking and unlocking.

The build quality is pretty similar, but the Desloc does feel slightly more durable. It has an IP65 rating for weather resistance, which is better than the IP53 rating offered by the Lockin Veno Solar. I suspect both of them will be able to withstand most weather events, but if you're worried about damage, then the Desloc is probably the more durable option. They both have BHMA Grade 3 deadbolt certification.

Installation of the two locks is pretty similar. Both of them require that you completely remove your existing deadbolt and locking mechanism. Once that's done, you'll install the included deadbolt, then thread the exterior portion of the lock through the deadbolt and attach it to a base plate. Finally, you'll screw the interior portion of the lock into the base plate. Then you'll download the lock's respective apps, create an account, and add the lock to your account.

Winner: Desloc V150 Plus

Desloc V150 Plus vs. Lockin Veno Solar: App and smart home

Software support is another area in which the two locks diverge. The V150 Plus runs on Desloc's existing app and connects to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth without needing a hub. I found the app decently easy to use. Adding fingerprints and faces was straightforward, I could remotely lock and unlock the door, and I got real-time access logs and battery information, including a chart showing how much battery the device has gained through solar power. Hopefully, of course, you won't need to worry much about battery at all.

The Lockin Smart app, similarly, covers the basics well. You can generate one-time PINs, enroll new faces and codes, configure auto-lock, and so on. I would have liked an overview of how much battery the lock gains over time, the way Desloc offers, but its absence isn't a big deal. With the Desloc, I found that I checked the battery gain once or twice over the first few days, then mostly forgot about it.

The big area where the Lockin Veno Solar pulls ahead is in smart home support. The Desloc V150 Plus supports Google Home and Amazon Alexa, but Lockin goes much further with Matter support. That essentially means that you can add the Veno Solar to any modern smart home ecosystem, including Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and more.

Sure, for those who use Google Home or Alexa, that difference may not be a very big deal. But what if you want to change ecosystems down the line? Or what if your partner uses an iPhone while you use an Android device? Matter support solves all of these issues, and it's kind of becoming table stakes for smart home devices, at least when the Matter spec supports them like it does locks.

Winner: Lockin Veno Solar

Desloc V150 Plus vs. Lockin Veno Solar: Performance

When it comes to speed and reliability of unlocking, neither of these smart locks is incredibly impressive. However, each has one feature that the other doesn't. The Desloc V150 Plus doesn't have a PIN pad, which is kind of a major omission, and means that you can't easily assign guest codes. What it does have is a fingerprint sensor, and that can come in handy given the fact that the face scanner is pretty slow. Much of the time I found that it was faster to scan my fingerprint to unlock the door than wait the few seconds for the lock to scan my face.

The Lockin Veno Solar doesn't have a fingerprint scanner but does have a PIN pad. It was actually faster to just wait for the lock to scan my face, even though it did take a few seconds. I'm not sure either of these two locks was faster at face scanning than the other. That's not a good thing; they were both slow. If you're deciding between these two locks, you'll have to determine whether you prefer to have a PIN pad or a fingerprint scanner.

It's also worth quickly noting that the Lockin Veno Solar had much more reliable Wi-Fi connectivity. Both of these locks were installed on a garden shed in my backyard, which can sometimes have spotty reception. The Desloc V150 Plus struggled a fair bit to retain a Wi-Fi connection, but the Lockin Veno Solar had no such issue. That will really only be an issue for you if you plan on putting your smart lock in an area where Wi-Fi reception isn't all that good. For most people who install the lock on their front door, both locks will retain connectivity perfectly fine.

Winner: Lockin Veno Solar

Desloc V150 Plus vs. Lockin Veno Solar: Battery life and recharging

Given the fact that these are both solar-powered locks, perhaps one of the more important questions is whether or not you'll need to worry about battery and charging. Thankfully, they both charged perfectly fine, and while they don't charge very quickly, that doesn't really matter. Basically, you'll never have to worry about whether or not your lock is charged up.

Again, don't expect them to fully charge overnight. When I first installed the Desloc V150 Plus, it had around 12% battery. A week later, it had 34%. When I installed the Lockin Veno Solar, it arrived with around 83%, and a week later, it had 90%. The actual charging speed, of course, doesn't really matter all that much. What matters is that they're not losing power over time. And if you fully charge your lock when you first get it, I expect both of these locks will remain around 100% at all times.

Winner: Tie

Desloc V150 Plus vs. Lockin Veno Solar: Verdict

For now, if you're looking for a smart lock with a solar charger, it's probably worth buying the Lockin Veno Solar. It may not have a fingerprint reader, but it does have a pin pad, plus it's around half the price of the Desloc V150 Plus.

That said, if a fingerprint reader really is important to you and you find a solar panel important, then you'll still like what's offered by the Desloc V150 Plus. You'll just have to stomach the additional cost or try to snag one from the Kickstarter campaign.

The alternative, of course, is to wait a little for solar panels to become more common on smart locks. The first few smart locks with solar panels feel a bit more like proofs-of-concept rather than the complete package.

I would have liked to see a lock with both a fingerprint scanner and a pin pad. That's not to mention support for Matter and even tech like Apple's Home Key and Ultra Wideband. I expect eventually we'll get these features in solar-powered locks, but for now, we'll have to wait.

More from Tom's Guide

• Google vs. Ring vs. Arlo: We put 6 security cameras to the test to find the most accurate AI
• Apple Intelligence security camera features just seriously undercut Ring and Google
• Save yourself $100 or more a year: These security cameras and video doorbells don't require a subscription

Of all the annual chores I have to perform around my house, one of my least favorite is installing window AC units in the early summer, and taking them out in the fall. While most of the ones in my house are fairly small, the one we use to cool the first floor — the LG Dual Inverter window air conditioner — is a monster. I always feel like I’m going to either throw my back out or somehow drop the entire unit out the window.

That’s why Dreo’s new 740S Portable Air Conditioner looked so intriguing to me — I wasn’t going to risk a herniated disc trying to keep my house cool. And, because this unit uses inverter technology, it’s a lot more efficient than older portable ACs.

So, I set up the Dreo 740S in my house to see how it compared to the best smart air conditioners, and if it could genuinely replace my trusted — but heavy — window unit.

Price and availability

Dreo has six portable air conditioners in its lineup; The 740S, which went on sale in the late spring of 2026, costs $699, and is the most expensive model. However, some of the other models in Dreo’s lineup are more powerful, have many of the same features, yet cost less. So why is that?

It’s because the 740S uses an inverter to cool air, whereas all of Dreo’s other models use older compressor technology. As a result, the 740S is far more efficient than Dreo’s other portable air conditioners.

While the 740S isn’t as efficient as, say, the Midea U or the LG Dual Inverter (15 and 14.7 EER, respectively), it’s pretty close.

Design

The Dreo 740S air conditioner itself looks rather sleek. It’s about the size of a mini fridge and has curved edges that taper gently towards the top which has two louvers. The front of the AC is clean, except for a large circular display and some touch controls beneath. The controls were easy to read and use, as was the display.

Even more clever: On the top of the unit, just behind the louvers, is a small flat surface that’s magnetized; here, you can place the Dreo’s remote, which will remain securely in place.

As someone who’s heaved their share of air conditioners in and out of windows, I really appreciated the casters on the bottom of the Dreo, which let me roll it wherever I wanted, as well as the handles on the side of the unit.

It’s around the back of the Dreo where things get a little messy. There are two large circular vents — one for exhaust air intake, and one to expel the hot air. To these vents, you connect large accordion-style hoses, which attach to a plastic insert that goes in your window. The insert can expand or retract to fit windows from 20 to 53 inches wide, and can be mounted either vertically or horizontally. Each hose is about six inches in diameter.

If I lived in a modern house with windows that extended all the way to the floor, it would be easy to conceal these hoses and have the AC sit closer to the window. However, because my window sits about two feet above the floor, I have to extend the hoses up and out. Not only is it far less attractive, but it also means that the air conditioner sits about two feet into the room.

Of course, this is a problem endemic to all portable air conditioners, so perhaps I might be knocking Dreo a bit too hard, but it's still a major consideration if you're choosing

By comparison, the window unit I’ve used for the past few years extends less than a foot into the room, making it far less obtrusive.

Like most air conditioners, the Dreo also needs to expel condensation; it has a built-in evaporator, so it should be able to handle most water on its own, but it does have two drain plugs on the back: one at the bottom, and one in the middle of the unit. The company includes a small drain hose, so if you’re in a high humidity environment, you can let the Dreo drain itself.

However, as with the vent hoses, I had no easy way to route the drain hose outside of my house. Fortunately, even though I live in a pretty humid area, I have yet to need to drain the air conditioner myself.

Performance

The 740S did nearly as good a job cooling the bottom floor of my house as the 14,000-BTU LG Dual Inverter air conditioner that I’ve been using for nearly eight years. It was able to bring the temperature down on the ground level of my house in a relatively short amount of time, and keep it there. It took slightly longer than the LG unit, but that's to be expected given its smaller capacity.

At full power, I recorded a noise level of 54 dB from 10 feet away from the air conditioner; the ambient room noise was 33 dB. That’s a bit louder than I’d like, but once the temperature hit the right level, the AC ramped down, and was much quieter.

On one of the hotter days of the year, when the temperature reached the upper 90s, the Dreo kept the temperature on the ground floor of my house (a few hundred square feet) at around 79 degrees F. Over the course of seven and a half hours, it used 3.54 kWh of electricity, according to the Dreo app.

I also like that you can adjust the angle of the Dreo’s louvers (using either the app or the remote control) so you can better direct airflow throughout your room.

Smart Home and app

Dreo’s app is well-designed and easy to use. Devices are grouped by rooms, which gives you a quick overview of its status; a tap then brings you into the settings for that device. For example, tapping on the AC’s temperature opens a screen where you can adjust its temperature, cooling mode, fan speed, and more.

I also like that Dreo lets you turn off the AC’s display and sounds, so that it’s not distracting if you’re using it in the same room as the one in which you’re sleeping.

The Dreo works with both Alexa and Google Home, but surprisingly, is not Matter-compatible, which was a bit of a disappointment, considering some of Dreo’s other smart home devices use this new universal standard. Still, I was able to easily create a smart home routine that turned the Dreo on to a set temperature if another sensor noted that things were getting too hot.

Verdict

As far as portable air conditioners go, the Dreo does a good job at keeping things cool. I also liked that I could easily roll it around, and didn’t have to worry about draining it. However, the aesthetics of having two large tubes extending out your window isn’t great, nor is the fact that it takes up a lot more space than a window air conditioner.

And while it’s far more efficient than other portable air conditioners, you’ll pay for the privilege. A comparable LG 10,000 BTU dual-inverter window AC unit (with a higher SEER rating of 15) costs $499 at Amazon. Yes, it weighs 62 pounds, but my spouse is game to help me.

If you happen to have a window whose openings are closer to the floor, then you can better hide the Dreo’s large exhaust vents, and make the whole thing look more aesthetically pleasing — and take up less space in the process. Until I can remodel my house, though, I’ll have to remember to lift with my legs.

I've been trying to get the right bird feeder for my garden for months. From my hanging cage that attracts unwanted attention from squirrels, to the smaller wooden box that keeps falling down, to the DIY one my son made that came under attack, I'm not having much luck.

So, I turned to my old faithful — a flat bird feeder that balances safely upon a pole and provides a roof to shield the food from the elements. Only, it turns out, that's exactly what I shouldn't be using. While I thought I was doing something good for my local wildlife with the most stable option, in fact, using a flat bird feeder could be having the opposite effect. And if you're using one too, you might want to rethink it.

Why you shouldn't be using a flat bird feeder 

Bird tables feel like one of the most common ways to feed birds that are local to your area and that's because they are. But, conservation charities like Britain's Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) strongly advise against them and there's a good reason for it.

According to the RSPB, it's actually a hot bed for disease, specifically finch trichomonosis, a highly contagious variant that's easily spread around bird feeders. And the problem with flat bird feeders in particular is that the feed sits out in one spot for extended periods of time where birds continuously visit and revisit it.

RSPB specifically advises: "Don't use bird feeders with flat surfaces, such as bird tables, window feeders and feeders with trays. Research has confirmed that there's a higher risk of disease spreading on flat surfaces, where contaminated food can collect."

Leaving diseased food or droppings on a flat surface can have devastating consequences for your garden birds, so instead of using flat bird feeders, you should be avoiding them.

What you should do instead

Fortunately, both the RSPB and The National Audubon Society have abundant advice on what you should do instead if, like me, you're struggling to find the right solution for feeding your garden birds.

The National Audubon Society recommends that to prevent the spread of illness, you need to follow three simple steps: "Clean feeders regularly, tidy below the feeder and share the wealth." The National Wildlife Health Center advises that to clean them, you should make "a solution of nine parts water to one part bleach," making sure to dry the bird feeder fully before putting it back out.

Tidying below it is also important, as well as to "share the wealth" by spreading out food among a few feeders to hopefully reduce the chance of all of them becoming contaminated.

Overarching all this advice, the RSPB says that what you should really be doing is to "help birds find their own food." It recommends instead that you should be helping garden birds to discover foods by planting bird-friendly plants in your garden, including sunflowers and ivy.

If you want to use bird feeders, it seems choosing hanging ones are your best option, as long as you're keeping them clean and moving them around regularly so that food build-up doesn't occur. I'll just make sure that next time I buy a hanging bird feeder, it's one that deters squirrels.

More from Tom's Guide

• Ditch the feeder this summer: The natural way to keep garden birds healthy
• Why your birdfeeder becomes a ‘disease spot’ in a heatwave — and how to fix it
• I’ve been using this Birdfy smart bird feeder for four months: here’s what I've learned

As the weather warms up, there's nothing more satisfying than having a lush, green lawn to enjoy — particularly when preparing for outdoor entertaining.

And while you might already have a lawn care routine that you stick to, you might be forgetting to do this one crucial step before cutting your grass. In fact, it’s a common mistake we often make when mowing our lawn, but if left unchecked, it can cause long-term damage to our mower’s blades.

What’s more, this could ruin your lush, healthy grass just as the summer begins. So if you want to ensure a greener lawn, don’t skip this one lawn mower check.

Make sure the grass is dry before cutting

While this might not seem necessary in warmer months, you should always check that your grass is dry before getting the mower out. Be it from morning dew or a summer shower, excess moisture can make all the difference to your mower blades.

This is due to the fact that damp blades of grass tend to stick or clump together, which can significantly blunt your mower's cutting edge over time. Consequently, this makes the blades work less effectively and could cause them to overheat, as they’ll need to work harder to get through the clumps — and potentially make your mower break down.

In addition, moist cuttings can build up beneath the mower deck and across your blades, which results in rusted metal components and a decline in your machine’s efficiency.

Of course, keeping your lawn mower in top condition is vital, so ensure your mower blades are sharp and avoid mowing with blunt equipment.

There are many blade sharpening tools available online; however, a metal file also works well — always follow the safety guidelines for your mower. Check out our guide on how to sharpen lawn mower blades for more info.

Uneven and lackluster grass

To make matters worse, mowing when the grass is moist can trigger various other problems that can affect your turf's health. The first is torn or unevenly cut grass, as the sheer weight of moisture forces individual grass stalks to droop, preventing them from remaining upright and resulting in an uneven, ragged finish across your turf.

Another issue is the breeding of fungus and other diseases, as they thrive in the damp conditions of these rough cuts — causing damage to soil.

It’s worth noting that while cutting lightly damp grass on a single occasion probably won’t lead to long-term problems, it’s still best to avoid it as much as possible.

Just be sure to avoid these 7 lawnmower mistakes you’re probably making right now.

When is the best time to mow your lawn?

Gardening experts suggest that the ideal time to mow is mid-morning (by 10 am), as your lawn has had sufficient time to dry. In addition, allowing your turf enough time to dry and mowing by this time ensures your lawn has the full day to heal from the cut.

Alternatively, if you can’t get round to mid-morning, late afternoon (between 4-6 pm) is the second-best time of day to mow your lawn. This is when the sun is not at its peak, and there is no risk of the heat scorching the lawn. Also, mowing at this hour additionally provides your grass with ample time to heal before nightfall.

For more top tips on getting a greener lawn, check out these 11 secrets to a lawn that’s greener than your neighbor's.

Lawncare essentials we love

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• This is the reason why your lawn mower grass cuttings are clumping — and the simple fix to solve it
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The IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro is the best portable espresso maker I’ve tested so far. I’ve used pretty much everything Wacaco makes, and if you’re a camping aficionado who wants the best trail coffee possible, it’s gotta be the IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro.

While pricey, if you want the best of the best, you may as well invest. The Kapo K2 Pro can make six shots of espresso on one charge and has a customizable flow rate and pre-infusion time (if you get the app). If I were on a desert island with only the Pixapresso or the Kapo K2 Pro, I’d choose the latter.

Although you don’t get as golden a crema as my coffee-snob heart would like, you can’t really ask for the world from a portable espresso maker. If you want to find out more about this surprisingly excellent espresso maker — why wouldn’t you, it’s great — then keep reading this IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro review.

IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro review: Specs

IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro review: Price & availability

The IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro is $199 from Amazon U.S. and £170 from Amazon U.K. Curiously, the machine itself is embossed with ‘CERA+’, another coffee company. IKAPE’s representative has confirmed to me that Cera and IKAPE collaborated on this product, but they are two separate brands. Cera+ sells its own portable espresso machine for $139 at Amazon — and if the machines are manufactured by the same company, it might be worth getting the cheaper option.

However, Cera+ and Kapo K2 Pro differ in some key ways: the Cera+ can use both Nespresso pods and ground coffee, and the IKAPE only ground coffee. However, the IKAPE has an array of coffee-snob-approved features like a bottomless portafilter and comes with a grooved tamper.

$199 is pretty expensive for a portable espresso maker; the Wacaco Pixapresso is $159, the non-self-heating Wacaco Pipamoka and Wacaco Picopresso are $49 and $129, respectively. I see the OutIn Nano portable espresso maker everywhere — this is $159 from Amazon.

None of these alternatives have app compatibility, which means you won’t be able to customize pre-infusion and flow rates.

You can also buy the IKAPE stand, which is $42 from Amazon.

IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro review: Design

The Kapo K2 Pro looks pretty darn cool. It’s very simple, with a gray plastic exterior and a one-button system. You only have to press the button once for the machine to do its thing. Unlike Wacaco’s complex, convoluted portable espresso makers, the IKAPE is so easy that a toddler could do it (but obviously don’t give it to your toddler…).

There are only a few moving parts: the bottomless portafilter, the dosing collar, a tamper, a water tank lid, and a drinking cup. Each part feels well-made — the dosing collar has (relatively weak, but still present) magnets, and the bottomless portafilter screws smoothly into the maker body. The tamper is particularly impressive; it’s spring-loaded with a grooved circular impression, which just makes me feel so fancy.

I have nothing bad to say about the build at all. Sure, if you’re upset by plastic, you might want to go for the 9Barista Espresso Machine Mk.2, which is constructed from nickel-plated brass, stainless steel, anodized aluminum, silicone, PTFE plastic (Teflon), and PEI plastic. However, the 9Barista is… — checks notes — $699… At that point, just get a Breville Bambino ($299) and a generator. I jest, I jest, but that’s a lot of money for a manual coffee maker. Our reviews editor Pete Wolinski has also taken the 9Barista camping, and had this to say: “Honestly, it’s more trouble than it’s worth.”

IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro review: Espresso

It took 3 minutes and 21 seconds for the Kapo K2 Pro to make one shot of espresso. This is wildly faster than the Wacaco Pixapresso, which labored for 9 minutes before finally giving me an espresso.

The battery life on the IKAPE is also far superior — I made 6 shots of espresso before needing to recharge it, whereas the IKAPE died after 2 ½ (yeah, the half is the real kicker there, because not only have I wasted my time, but also my expensive coffee).

Alright, now let’s get into what really matters: espresso taste. I use the same Ethiopian beans for 90% of my coffee testing, which is what I used here.

Take a look at this espresso. This was made using 18g of finely ground coffee (using my Mazzer Philos, $1,500, of course) and 50ml of water.

As you can see, there isn’t much crema. The espresso doesn’t have the same gorgeous caramel you might expect, and it definitely looks worse than the Wacaco Pixapresso. However, quality of life on the IKAPE is far superior — it just depends on what you value.

Taste-wise, though, the espresso was good. It’s definitely better than drinking instant while on camping trips, but I’m not going to throw away my Breville Bambino Plus any time soon. The espresso was rich and satisfying, with some juicy notes in iced lattes. Americanos were balanced and not bitter, with a pleasant mouthfeel. It wasn’t the best coffee I’ve ever had, but it’s definitely good enough for camping trips.

I didn’t experience any scalding issues with the Kapo K2 Pro. It dispensed hot espresso into the provided drinking cup without spilling anywhere.

IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro review: App

I was surprised to find the Kapo K2 Pro came with an app, and I worried it wouldn’t be worth it. However, it’s actually got a huge range of niche features. It’s called ‘Happy Go Cera+’, and the eagle-eyed amongst you will realize that’s the same company that also co-manufactured the Kapo K2 Pro itself.

You can do a whole load of things on the ‘HappyGo Cera+’ app. You can customize pre-infusion time, customize “standby” time (I assume this means the coffee has been saturated before pressurized extraction), and customize flow rate. I played around with this and found that a long pre-infusion and slow flow rate provided a lovely juicy flavor profile for my Ethiopian beans.

IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro review: Storage & maintenance

As the Kapo K2 Pro is relatively small — just 10 inches tall and 3 inches wide — it will easily fit in backpacks for camping trips. At 1.8 pounds, it’s around the same weight as the Wacaco Pixapresso.

Cleaning was also super easy. All the main parts are removable, which I washed in warm soapy water. The only thing you can’t remove is the water tank, but as this only touches water, it probably doesn’t need soap anyway. If you’re worried, just run fresh water through before brewing up.

IKAPE offers a 1-year warranty, which is the same as Wacaco’s. Even so, I’m not entirely impressed by this — if I’m spending $199 on a coffee maker, I want at least two years.

IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro review: Verdict

The IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro is the best portable espresso maker I’ve ever tested. As much as I enjoyed testing the Wacaco Pixapresso, the IKAPE version is much, much better. For starters, it can brew six shots rather than two on one charge, it comes with really weighty, high-quality accessories, and it’s much easier to use.

Of course, the IKAPE is more expensive. You’re looking at $200 rather than $150. While I wish the IKAPE was cheaper, if you’re a serious coffee lover looking to upgrade your camping coffee setup and you don’t care how much you spend, then I’d recommend the Kapo K2 Pro over the Pixapresso.

For those looking for the best of the best, go for the IKAPE Kapo K2 Pro. It’s the best portable espresso maker I’ve ever tested, and, while pricier than alternatives, if you want the best, you gotta pay for it — right?

A year after I first tested the Ninja FrostVault, I'm still sure it's the best cooler you can get your hands on. It keeps the ice frozen for five whole days at the height of summer, so it's safe to say I can rely on it.

This summer is expected to be one of the hottest on record for parts of the U.S. and the rest of the world. Whether it's for garden parties or to take with you on the road, the NinjaFrostVault is the only cooler I trust with my fresh food and beverages on some of the hottest days. Let's recap the reasons why you shouldn't give this box the cold shoulder this summer.

Keeping ice cool

The most impressive thing about the Ninja FrostVault is how long it can keep ice frozen. After five days, there was still solid ice in the cooler, and all of the cans I'd put in there were super cold.

Having a cooler with such incredible insulation is essential, especially during the crazy heatwaves we're seeing worldwide right now. Having cool beverages to drink on hot days makes all the difference.

I would be very comfortable relying on this cooler for a short camping trip, but I would advise adding in a digital thermometer to ensure food-safe temperatures.

Tough build

If, like me, you find yourself on campsites with uneven ground or heading down to the beach, you're going to need something easier to maneuver. And since this cooler comes in 45QT or 65QT, you're not going to be carrying it.

Luckily, the Ninja FrostVault has some heavy-duty wheels and a tow arm to get you where you need to go. I tried this out on a bunch of different terrain, and I could pull it around with ease. And trust me, if I can move it, anyone can.

Convenient compartments

You load the main compartment with ice to ensure everything stays cool, but there's also a sneaky drawer at the bottom. This uses the cooling effect of the top compartment but eliminates the moisture created when the ice melts.

Anything kept in this drawer won't get soggy but will stay ice cold. This makes it perfect for things like meat, fruit or cheese.

Do yourself a favor this summer and forget about refilling the ice bucket. Check out the Ninja FrostVault.

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When it comes to some of the best vacuum cleaners, Dyson remains a top-tier contender. And since I test vacuums for a living, I've always been impressed by its unrivaled suction power, innovative features and eye-catching design.

The new Dyson V16 Animal cordless vacuum cleaner is one of the latest models in its arsenal and comes with a few notable upgrades. First of all, its signature trigger-power operation has been replaced with a simple on/off button (no more cramped fingers).

Additionally, it comes with a conical brush bar to adapt to different surfaces without damage, and an anti-hair-tangle mechanism, which is perfect for pet households.

It also comes at a premium price, which, in a competitive market, begs the question of whether it’s truly worth the expensive tag.

I put the Dyson V16 Animal to the test in my home for a few months to find out. Here’s what happened.

Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A premium cordless vacuum cleaner with a Fluffy Cones floor head to tackle both carpets and hard flooring, and an anti-detangling feature for pet hair.
• Who is it for? People with pets or who prefer a non-trigger power operation for easy use
• How much does it cost? $979 / £749 at Amazon
• What do we like? The sturdy and lightweight build, power-on button, dust-detecting laser light, and the fact that it vacuums very well. Connectivity to the MyDyson app.
• What don’t we like? The edge-to-edge cleaning could be better, and the lack of extra accessories or a self-emptying dock makes the price seem overly dear

Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless: Specs

Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless review: Price & availability

Priced at $979 at Amazon or £749 direct from Dyson UK, the V16 Animal sits at the higher end of the market. As one of the newest entries in the brand's arsenal, it commands a premium price that mirrors its top-tier standing.

It also comes at a premium price, which, in a competitive market, begs the question of whether it’s truly worth the expensive tag, especially since it lacks extra accessories or even a self-emptying dock (unlike the new Dyson Konical).

Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless review: Design

At first glance, the V16 resembles the Dyson Gen5Detect, but comes with a few notable upgrades. First, it has an All Floors ‘Fluffy Cones’ floor head, designed to auto-adapt from hard floors to carpets without the need to swap out heads.

Rather than the separate brush roller and fluffy heads, its conical-shaped swivel head combines two conical brush bars. It also comes with an anti-detangling mechanism and a dust-detection laser light, which is always handy for showing any hidden dustballs.

While the bin capacity might appear limited at first, it features a clever internal compressor. This mechanism compacts debris effectively, allowing for increased storage and far fewer interruptions to empty the trash.

Perhaps the more notable change is the absence of a trigger-button operation, which has been replaced with a tiny (yes, it really is tiny), on/off button at the top of the LCD screen. Underneath that is another button to set your cleaning modes — Eco, Auto and Boost.

I like that you simply press the button and it’s ready to go, which effectively eliminates the hand fatigue often caused by holding down the trigger on trigger-based models.

Included accessories are a combination brush and funnel for upholstery, crevice tool, and the Hair Screw Tool 2.0, which is ideal for pet hairs and tackling stairs.

Overall, the V16 looks sleek and premium with its eye-catching copper-and-Prussian-blue finish.

I also like the fact that it’s lightweight, at just 3.4 kg, which makes it easier to lift and carry around the home single-handedly.

Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless review: Cleaning performance

Since I have different types of hard flooring, I’m constantly whizzing around my home with a vacuum to deal with the inevitable accumulation of daily dirt, stray crumbs, and household debris.

First, I passed the V16 across my living room's wooden flooring and through the kitchen and dining area tiles. Even when operating in Eco mode, I was impressed at the suction power to quickly pick up dust and loose particles. It even tackled those annoying bits of debris wedged deep within the narrow gaps of my floorboards.

Similarly, in Auto and Boost modes, the power ramps up to give it an even deeper clean.

Another favorite feature of mine is the dust-detection laser light that’s built into the floor head. I find this incredibly useful to spot where the hidden dust is lurking, especially under my sofa, bed (which is usually untouched and has tons of dust balls), and other low-rise furniture.

Plus, its "lightsaber" illumination adds a layer of contentment to the chore (it’s always good to know you haven’t missed any spots); even my son found himself eager to tackle the dust balls in his own bedroom. So that’s a win-win!

Perhaps one slight frustration I encountered was its tendency to struggle with larger debris, like stray cereal or gravel. I often found myself needing several passes over the same area to ensure the floor was left entirely spotless.

Another disappointment is that it struggled with edge-to-edge cleaning, as I still observed the odd dust line along the skirting boards. However, this wasn't a major deal breaker and was easily resolved with another pass over.

Carpet cleaning

Although my home is mostly hard flooring, my carpeted staircase constantly highlights every bit of stray hair and accumulated debris.

Even though I’m not a pet owner (you would think I do), I’m constantly dealing with my own long hair shedding across the house, which tends to get stubbornly embedded in my beige carpeting.

In fact, it looked so dull that you wouldn’t be able to tell what color it originally was.

Set to Auto mode, I was equally impressed that the V16 could tackle these stubborn hair strands, thanks to its anti-detangling function. Moving on, I put the V16 to work on my carpeted staircase.

By switching to the handheld mode and attaching the hair screw tool, I was able to efficiently remove those deep-set particles and stubborn hair fibers that often cling to the treads. Impressive results. For that reason alone, I’d recommend this for pet parents, who would certainly benefit from the pick-up power.

Unlike the hard surface results, the V16 performed better when it came to tackling larger debris on carpet. And once the suction ramped up on Auto, my carpets were left spotless.

Battery

I was impressed with its long-lasting battery life. Given how often I grabbed it for a bi-daily sweep of my living spaces, I only needed to reach for the charger once every fortnight.

However, this longevity likely stems from my reliance on Eco mode, only shifting into Auto for more grimy spots.

Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless review: Cleaning and storage

Since the compressor bin is designed to hold up to 30 days' worth of dirt (thanks to the innovative internal compressor), I found myself making far fewer trips to the trash can than expected. I found this handy, especially when I was in a rush and didn't always have the time to empty out immediately.

However, one minor caveat is the messy "dust cloud" that often erupts when you trigger the release mechanism — which can be a bit of a nuisance when emptying the bin.

Despite that, the V16 is easy to maintain, and its slender build means it won't take up too much space in your storage closet.

Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless review: Verdict

The V16 Animal Piston is a welcome upgrade to its predecessors and doesn’t disappoint in power. During my testing, it proved exceptionally capable, making light work of varied types of debris across both my hard floors and carpeted staircase. Plus, its power-on button and lightweight build make it easy to use and maneuver.

Although the unique 'Fluffy Cones' floor head took some getting used to, I grew to really appreciate the sheer versatility. To transition seamlessly between different floor surfaces without pausing to swap out tool attachments is a definite time-saver.

I also found the handy swivel feature and dust-detecting light useful when trying to get into those awkward spots. However, the edge-to-edge cleaning results could have been a little better.

Considering the V16 lacks extra add-ons like the Dyson Submarine’s mopping head or a convenient self-emptying base station, its premium price tag feels particularly steep.

However, if you simply want convenience and unrivaled power to tackle all floor surfaces with ease, the Dyson V16 certainly delivers on its promise.

Unlocking your smart lock from your phone is cool, but the real challenge now is ironing out the practical issues that come with making your lock smart — like having to keep it powered when you never had to worry about that before. A few newer locks are trying to solve this, and the Desloc V150 Plus might be the most interesting attempt.

The V150 Plus has a solar panel built right into it, designed to charge the lock so you never have to think about whether it has enough juice to let you in. It doesn't skimp on other features either -- you get fingerprint and facial recognition unlocking, so it's easy to get through your door without pulling out your phone.

So how well does that solar panel actually perform, and is this one of the best smart locks outside of that? I've been using the Desloc V150 to find out.

Price and availability

The Desloc V150 Plus is now available through a Kickstarter campaign, and Desloc says that it will be available from retailers starting in August. The Kickstarter lists the lock as being around $169 though, so if you know you want it, it may be worth buying through the Kickstarter.

Design and setup

For the most part, the Desloc V150 Plus looks much like other smart locks — until you look a little closer. Like other smart locks, the exterior portion is rectangular and made of a combination of black metal and plastic. But unlike many other smart locks, when you approach it, a pin pad won't illuminate for you to punch in a code. That's because the surface on the front of the lock isn't a pin pad at all — it's a solar panel that charges the built-in battery.

Apart from the 4.8-inch solar panel, the lock also has a fingerprint sensor towards the bottom and two cameras towards the top that are used for facial recognition. In other words, while there's no pin pad, there are still multiple ways to unlock the door.

The interior portion looks even more like other smart locks. There's a thumb latch to manually lock and unlock the door, along with a cover for the main battery, which hopefully you'll never have to actually open.

The lock should be able to survive most weather with its IP65 rating. Plus, it has BHMA Grade 3 certification for deadbolt strength.

This is a full deadbolt replacement, not a retrofit overlay. You'll remove your door's original deadbolt, align the new tailpiece with the latch, and mount the exterior and interior assemblies. Once it's powered, the lock runs a calibration routine to learn the bolt travel and ensure smooth locking, after which you can test the interior thumb-turn. None of that is unusual, and Desloc's installation process on previous locks has been straightforward enough.

Once you've physically set up the lock, you'll download the Desloc app and create an account, or sign in if you don't already have one. From there, you'll be able to add your face for facial recognition and add your fingerprint for the fingerprint scanner.

App and smart home

The V150 Plus runs on Desloc's existing app, and it connects to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth without the need for additional hubs.

For the most part, I found the app easy to use. I was able to add fingerprints and faces without issue. Plus, I could remotely lock or unlock the door with it. You'll also get real-time access logs and battery information, which, again, hopefully you'll never really need to see.

Another thing that the app shows, which is only really interesting for a solar-powered model like this, is how much power it gets each day. The app also includes a "Landlord mode" for rental scheduling and access-profile management, built around a calendar-style interface for organizing tenant codes and monitoring usage.

Combined with the self-charging design, that could make the V150 Plus genuinely appealing to small landlords, since the solar system would cut down on site visits just to swap batteries — though of course that might introduce complications around accounts and unlocking methods; since there's no keypad, each new tenant would have to register either their fingerprints or face.

Auto-lock, meanwhile, ties into a door-closure sensor so the lock only engages once the door is fully latched -- a subtle detail, but an important one, because it prevents the false sense of security you get from a lock that fires before the door has actually closed.

On the smart-home side, the lock integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Home for voice control, but that's it, which is pretty disappointing. Unlike cameras, locks have been supported in the Matter spec for some time now. And at this point, there's really no good excuse for smart locks not to support Matter. Without Matter support, you won't be able to use the Desloc V150 Plus with Apple HomeKit or other smart home standards beyond Alexa and Google Home.

Performance and battery life

Perhaps the most important aspect of this lock, of course, is how its battery and charging system works. I found it to work perfectly well. When I first set up the lock, I skipped the instructions to fully charge the battery, and the app reported that the battery had 12% left.

After around a week, it was at 34%. In other words, it doesn't charge all that quickly, but if I had fully charged the battery when I first set up the lock, I would never really need to worry about the lock running out of juice, and would expect that it would retain near 100% of its battery at all times. I had the lock set up in a location that doesn't get tons of direct sunlight, but it does get a few hours per day. It also has a USB-C port for emergency power if, for example, the battery stops working.

I did find, unfortunately, that the fingerprint scanner and face scanner were somewhat slow, but they did work the majority of the time. It usually took a few seconds for the face scanner to recognize me, and I actually found that it was faster to use the fingerprint scanner. What that means is that while the face scanner is a nice feature, it's perhaps likely to be treated as a backup for when you're carrying something, rather than as the primary way to unlock the door.

Verdict

The Desloc V150 Plus is a perfectly fine lock, but needs a bit of refinement before it can compete with the best smart locks. Obviously, the fact that you'll never have to manually replace the batteries or charge it is a nice feature. But without Matter support, it's limited in the smart home ecosystems that it works in.

Plus, it unlocks relatively slowly, especially compared to plenty of other smart locks out there. Again, it's not a bad product. For the right person, it might be the way to go, especially for those in the Google or Amazon ecosystems, or who don't mind using the dedicated app.

If you're looking for a lock with a built-in solar panel, the Lockin Veno Solar is Matter-compatible, comes with either face or palm unlocking, and has both a keypad and a physical key slot, making it feel like a more complete product.

Three years ago, my wife and I planted a peach tree in our backyard, and have been enchanted with its lovely scent when it blooms in the spring. Each year, it also produces dozens of peaches, which we eagerly wait to ripen. However, all too often, the tree is systematically stripped bare by ravenous squirrels, who seem to know just when to pluck the fruit from the tree.

It's utterly frustrating. After we saw it happen the first year, we tried netting the second year, but it was a pain to wrap around the tree; the squirrels were undeterred, and by mid-June, the tree was barren of all peaches.

This year, I'm trying something different using something I would have otherwise thrown out with the trash, and it's working so far. Here's what I did.

Strawberry containers to the rescue

Due to my daughter's fondness for the fruit, we go through at least one container of strawberries per week. Our supermarket carries the Driscoll brand, which come in rectangular plastic containers. Normally, these containers get thrown into the garbage or recycling, but this past spring, as I was getting ready to toss one out, I took a look at the container, which gave me an idea.

The strawberry container is designed to allow for airflow, so that the strawberries don't get moldy. But, I also realized that these slots could also work to my advantage on my peach tree.

I opened a container, placed it around a peach, and then snapped it shut. The slots in the container not only let the peach breathe, but they're also large enough so that I can put it around a branch without damaging it.

How it's going so far

I used strawberry containers to protect about a half-dozen peaches, and wouldn't you know, those are the only peaches that are still on the tree. I had my doubts about the small plastic locks on the containers, but they've remained secure, even through some pretty big and gusty thunderstorms.

The squirrels haven't yet figured out how to open the containers — and I hope they don't — but few things are as tempting.

I also tried using a blueberry container, but they don't have the same slots around the top rim, so when I cut holes to allow for the branch, the container lost all its structural stability, and wouldn't remain locked on the tree.

The peaches are growing slowly, but steadily. The biggest downside is that having a bunch of plastic containers on the tree isn't the most aesthetically pleasing, but if that's the price to pay for a juicy peach from my own tree, then it's something I'll gladly accept.

What are your tricks for keeping squirrels away from your fruit trees? Let me know in the comments.

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Summer is here, and the perfect time to get out and enjoy your outdoor spaces in style. Whether you take pride in your lush lawn or are preparing for hosting gatherings, a patterned lawn can truly provide that wow factor and elevate your entire garden.

But if you don’t want a classic striped lawn or even a diamond pattern, why not try a twist with the checkerboard effect? Known for its unique, geometric squares, you can easily replicate this look by switching your travel path while mowing.

In fact, this specific method is a favorite for golf course managers, which can instantly give your own backyard a premium appeal. What’s more, this method will make your grass appear healthier.

While it may seem like a job for the professionals, mastering the checkerboard effect is actually quite easy to do. I asked a grass expert to share their top tips on how to mow a checkerboard pattern the right way — so your lawn can be the envy of your neighbors.

How to create a checkerboard lawn — in 2 easy steps

Creating a checkerboard pattern is pretty straightforward. In this method, you simply need to alternate your mowing path between horizontal and vertical passes across your turf.

Before you start, experts advise that your grass should be thick and healthy. This is because the pattern actually comes from the blades leaning in different directions and the light bouncing off it. So if your lawn is patchy, bumpy, or in bad condition overall, this will affect the overall results.

“You need to make sure you have a healthy and even lawn before you begin,” advises Jonathan Davis, grass expert at Lawnsmith.

“The checkerboard appearance comes from the blades leaning in different directions and the light bouncing off it, so a bumpy or patchy lawn might not be as effective”.

In addition, it’s ideal to have helpful tools such as a lawn roller; however, most standard mowers have this already attached. More importantly, you should ensure that your mower's blades are perfectly sharp before you begin.

“A roller is essential; most standard mowers have these attached to the rear, but you can use a separate roller if you prefer, ”advises Davis. “Plot your path, either using string or stakes. You can try to mentally plan your route, but this could lead to wonky lines. “

Begin by mowing a horizontal line through your turf. Then, rotate your mower to complete a vertical pass alongside it, alternating your route with every subsequent pass.

“Mow the first set of stripes in one direction across the whole lawn, alternating the direction of travel on each pass - up and then back down,” adds Davis.

“Then turn 90 degrees and repeat the process. The second pass will intersect the first, and where the two directions overlap, you get the checkerboard squares instead of simple stripes.”

By following these steps precisely, you should achieve a checkerboard pattern, although bear in mind the lines may be a little subtle at first. In any case, as your grass grows, you’ll need to re-mow or re-roll over the original pattern to ensure your distinct pattern.

“Changing the pattern of your lawn can have some benefits,” states Davis. “It prevents the grass from leaning in one set direction, which can weaken it over time and make it grow unevenly.

“It can also lead to less soil compaction. Driving or walking over the same sections in the same way can compress the soil, which restricts root growth and drainage. Switching your route up spreads that wear out.”

The same rules apply for regular mowing, and you must avoid doing a checkerboard pattern when the grass is damp or moist. This can lead to clumping — or ruin the overall aesthetic.

“Avoid doing it when the ground is wet as this can lead to clumping. Mowing during periods of hot weather can also lead to your turf becoming stressed,” Davis explains.

“A striped, two-tone checkerboard effect you see on sports fields or golf courses is actually quite achievable in your own garden”.

So if you’re looking to truly spruce up your backyard this season, give your turf a premium checkerboard upgrade.

For more top lawncare tips, check out 11 secrets to a lawn that’s greener than your neighbor's.

Lawncare essentials we love

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• How to dethatch a lawn
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As summer arrives, household pests get busy. Warmer temperatures accelerate breeding cycles, while higher humidity and more open windows make it easier for pests to get inside.

So although we’re starting to peel off a layer or two and enjoying the sunshine and warmth, we need to be on the lookout for common pests making their way into our homes.

But there’s no need to be heavy-handed with pest control and go for the kill; there are easy ways to get rid of summer pests without causing harm.

Here, Emily Green, home maintenance expert at Howarth Timber, shares how to get rid of seven common pests naturally, using preventative measures.

1. Rats

When my son spotted a 'very, very large mouse' in my backyard, I knew I was in trouble! And according to Green, keeping rats and mice under control in and around the home is really about making the environment less attractive to them in the first place, rather than relying on reactive measures.

She says, “Food sources should be removed entirely, so all waste needs to be stored in sealed bins,” and adds, “Entry points are just as important, and even small gaps around sheds, pipework and air bricks can allow rodents inside, so these should be sealed as a priority.”

What’s more, to outsmart rats in your yard, she suggests sprinkling black pepper around entry points to create an irritant barrier. At the same time, eucalyptus leaves or rosemary cuttings placed in sheds or greenhouses may further disrupt rodent movement patterns.

2. Spiders

If you find spiders inside your home, they are probably following prey and looking for food.

“Citrus remains an effective deterrent,” says Green, “so wiping frames and corners with diluted lemon juice can help discourage entry”

Another deterrent is to create a simple chalk barrier, as spiders are reluctant to cross powdery, alkaline surfaces. Regular cleaning in corners, behind furniture and along ceilings with one of the best vacuums also helps remove webs and egg sacs before they develop further.

3. Fruit flies

Fruit flies love a warm kitchen, where ripe fruit and organic waste are an open invitation. Prevention starts with removing anything that attracts them in the first place.

Green advises, “Bins should be emptied frequently and kept tightly sealed, while sink drains also need attention, as food waste build-up can quickly create breeding sites.”

One way to clean your sink drain is to pour boiling water down it, but you need to perform this regularly. Green says it will help clear any residue and reduce pest activity.

If any fruit flies do appear, Green suggests making a simple natural trap. Place apple cider vinegar in a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, then pierce it with small holes to attract and trap the flies.

Other techniques include adding a few drops of essential oils, such as lemon or eucalyptus, onto cotton wool balls and placing them around your kitchen to deter pests. Although we enjoy the scent, ants will scurry in the opposite direction.

4. Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can be among the most annoying pests in summer and are more prevalent in warm, humid conditions with standing water, which create ideal breeding environments.

“The most effective way to control them is to remove stagnant water wherever it collects,” says Green. And she recommends removing plant saucers, bird baths that are not regularly cleaned, buckets, watering cans and any outdoor containers left exposed to rain.

Alongside this, she says natural repellents can help reduce activity around outdoor spaces. “Essential oils such as neem, eucalyptus and mint can be diluted and applied to seating areas, while planting mosquito-repelling herbs like lavender, mint and basil near doors and patios can also help deter them,” she adds.

5. Daddy longlegs

“Daddy longlegs are the most commonly seen in late summer and early fall as they drift indoors, often drawn towards light around windows and doors,” says Green. “Once inside, they tend to settle quietly around window frames and corners, so keeping these areas clear and well maintained can make the space feel less inviting.”

She suggests wiping window frames with a diluted vinegar solution, which can help discourage lingering. Plus, sealing gaps around vents, windows and door frames will help prevent entry in the first place.

6. Wasps

Wasps become more active in summer as they forage for sugary foods and protein sources, which often brings them closer to outdoor dining areas. “They are particularly drawn to uncovered drinks and food left out during warmer afternoons, making prevention an important first step,” explains Green.

Apart from clearing away food and keeping drinks covered, she suggests using peppermint and clove oil as a deterrent. When diluted in water and placed in a small container around seating areas, the strong scent will disrupt wasps’ foraging behavior.

7. Ants

Ants often enter homes in search of food during warmer months, particularly sugary or greasy residues. For this reason, Green says that removing crumbs and thoroughly cleaning surfaces are essential, as even small traces of food can attract trails.

She suggests applying natural barriers such as vinegar, lemon juice or cinnamon along baseboards, door thresholds and entry points to disrupt scent trails. As with other pests, sealing entry points is important, as ants can exploit even very small cracks in walls, floors and windows.

Pest deterrent essentials we love

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I have a confession to make. I really, really don’t mind skimming my pool. I just like being in it and around it, and will basically make any excuse to spend more time there, even if it’s work.

So when I had the opportunity to test out the Beatbot iSkim, I was actually kind of nervous. Why do I need a $499 robot ($369 on sale at Amazon) to do something that takes just 20 to 30 minutes at a clip with a $20 net, especially if I’m not going to be able to pretend I’m “working” on the pool?

The Beatbot iSkim promises less emptying and more pool time, as it continuously keeps your pool clean from debris while constantly staying charged via a solar panel. So I wanted to give it a fair shake. And now I don’t want to give it back.

Super easy setup

The blue robot looks friendly enough. The Beatbot iSkim is on the bulky side at 21.1 x 20.1 x 8.9 inches, but it’s a fairly light 15 pounds. And setting it up couldn’t be easier. I took it out of the box, loaded up the app and was ready to go in a few minutes.

Out of the box my iSkim had a battery capacity of 58% but the large solar panel on top allows the robot to keep juiced up all the time. I just dropped the iSkim into my pool with two hands and pressed the power button, and then it started moving around picking up blades of grass, leaves and bugs.

How well does it clean?

One of the best things about the Beatbot iSkim is that it comes with a large 9L basket. That’s enough space for plenty of debris. After 4 days there was still plenty of room but I washed out the basket anyway. And the basket is easy to remove too. You just push down on a latch, and pull out the handle.

My only complaint is that you need to make sure the pool is free of other items for the best results. The Beatbot does have built-in obstacle avoidance, but that didn’t stop it from trying to swallow my floating pool thermometer. The mouth of the robot (aka the inlet) is pretty wide.

The Beatbot iSkim fully cleaned the surface of my pool in under an hour, but it can take up to 2 hours to clean larger pools.

Solar charging and app

After just a couple of hours in direct sunlight the iSkim was already at 98% battery capacity, and a full charge of the 10,000 mAh battery gives you up to 28 hours of cleaning power. So even if you don’t have sunlight for a couple of days you’ll still be able to robo-skim your pool.

I also like that the iSkim is smart enough to automatically seek sunlight in your pool if there’s parts of it that get more sun versus shade. If for some reason you need to charge via an outlet you can use a 64.4W adapter, but that’s sold separately for $59.

You can easily track the charging status in the Beatbot app, which has some other neat functions. You can press the Park button at any time to have the iSkim come to the side of the pool, and there’s even a remote function that lets you send the robot in a particular direction.

If you just feel like showing off, you can press the accelerate button and have the iSkim go faster for no particular reason, and you can steer the robot using directional arrows. I had fun putting a drink on the robot and delivering it to someone on a raft.

Bottom line

The Beatbot iSkim might seem like overkill, especially if you already have a robot vacuum for your pool. But the way that I see it is that having something like iSkim means I don’t have to drag out my robot vacuum (which is heavier and wired) nearly as often. And that’s because less debris will get to the bottom of my pool over time.

So while I initially scoffed at the iSkim as solving a first-world problem, I’m now a fan of the robot. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s super easy to use, an effective cleaning tool, and you basically never need to charge it. Now I’m going to have to find other excuses to work on my pool.

One day, I aspire to have a really, really nice espresso machine. Don't get me wrong, I love love love my Breville Bambino Plus, but at some point, I want a machine that pulls out all the stops. I'm talking dual boiler or heat exchanger, walnut flourishes, 58mm portafilter, commercial-level steam wand, custom everything.

So when I tested the Lelit Mara X3, I thought I'd died and gone to coffee heaven. This beautiful prosumer machine has it all, and more. Did you know you can customize water temperature, steam pressure, and pressure? And it looks that good while doing so? Oof, sign me up.

The Mara X3 is definitely one of the best espresso machines I've ever tested. And, luckily for the Americans reading this, it's finally out across the pond! As of July 1st, the Mara X3 is available for purchase from Seattle Coffee Gear and Lelit direct, for the very — checks notes — "reasonable" price of $2,000. So... is this $2k espresso machine worth it? Let's get into it.

Hidden coffee nerd settings galore

As you might expect from a machine that costs almost double my monthly rent, the Lelit Mara X3 is replete with high-tech coffee-snob-approved features.

The Mara X3 has three main standouts: 1) custom steam pressure, 2) Pagaia pressure paddle, and 3) water temperature control.

It doesn't take a genius to guess what all these features do. The steam pressure can be increased or decreased depending on your preference (so you could practice with lower pressure before ramping up to commercial-level pressure). I kept this on 'Max' to mimic commercial espresso machines.

There's also a temperature switch hiding under the drip tray — this is for different coffee roasts. Light roast requires a higher temperature, dark roasts a cooler, and medium, well, medium.

The eagle-eyed among you will have noticed I omitted the 'Pagaia' paddle — fear not, because that requires its own section.

Pressure paddle for perfect performance

When you start getting into espresso aficionado territory, you start hearing things like "pre-infusion". Pre-infusion is when you saturate the grounds at low pressure before ramping up the pressure for a normal espresso extraction.

Varying this pre-infusion can bring out different flavors in your coffee. If you're using great artisanal beans, you'll start noticing things you've never noticed before. Cherry, biscuit, whiskey, lime — coffee can and does taste like all these things. I promise you.

Of course, you need to experiment with this to get the best performance. No, you're not going to start tasting bubblegum in your coffee on your first try. You really need to play with it.

You can customize pre-infusion on Breville machines — Bambino, Barista Express — but the Pagaia paddle takes it up a notch. You can put the machine on low pressure, then high pressure, then low pressure again. It's what coffee is all about — having fun!

I had a whale of a time playing with different pressures and noticing all the unique flavors in my espresso. Trust me — you'll get obsessed. The Mara X3 makes seriously delicious espresso.

So... is it worth it?

Ugh, I hate this. But yes. Yes, it's worth it.

However, I know I'm never going to have $2,000 to spend on an espresso machine, and that's fine. I've made my peace with that. Although I want one of these gorgeous prosumer models, unless I win the lottery or fall into a pile of cash, I know it's not going to happen.

But if you do have $2,000 lying about and you're extremely into coffee, then you should definitely buy the Lelit Mara X3. You will not be disappointed at all.

Obviously, the Mara X3 is gorgeous. I mean, just look at it. Everyone in the office made oohs and aahs when they walked past. The walnut flourishes are eye-catching, the cream body screams high-quality, and the overall aesthetic is simply perfect.

I'll leave you with this: When you're scrolling coffee YouTube/TikTok/Instagram, just look at what machine most influencers have. Yep, it's the Lelit Bianca. This brand has a cult following for a reason — and the Mara X3 is one of the cheapest ways to be inducted.

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There’s nothing I love more than fresh flowers to add a splash of vibrant color to any room, especially during summer.

But, as the outdoor temperatures soar, my indoor spaces tend to trap that heat, which can quickly take a toll on my beautiful blooms. And it’s always disheartening watching those vibrant, lively blooms quickly droop and lose their freshness — so soon after I’ve bought them.

Besides the obvious of moving them away from direct sunlight, I called on a florist to offer advice on how to prevent flowers from wilting in a heatwave. Not only are these simple, but they will help to extend their lifespan (and save me money!). Here are the 3 top tips to ensure you have longer-lasting flowers this season.

1. Don’t forget to change the water more frequently

It's very easy to forget changing your vase water regularly, especially if it looks clear. But scorching heat and high humidity offer the perfect breeding ground for nasty bacteria to thrive.

“One trick people usually miss is changing the water in their vase,” adds Vicky Salmon, florist at Interflora.

“Bacteria love warm weather, so in a heatwave they’ll be busy growing in that lovely fresh water you’ve given them. Take the time every other day to empty your vase, give it a clean and fill it with fresh water and your blooms will love you for it.”

Also, don’t forget to clean your vase too, especially if the glass has turned murky or has stains. If you want to eliminate the scrubbing, check out these hacks for cleaning a flower vase and get it sparkling again.

2. Relocate to a bigger vase

Whether you have a huge floral arrangement or simply like to add to your bouquet, it’s always better to relocate them to a larger vase (rather than cramming them all in). This will allow more airflow through the flowers, which will prevent them from quickly wilting in the heat.

“To make sure air can circulate through the bouquet, choose a vase with a wider neck,” adds Salmon. “Think of it like the floral version of wearing loose-fitting clothes; flowers need air too!”

In addition, if you notice a couple of drooping stems, don’t be tempted to throw out your entire arrangement. Simply pick out the fading blooms right away to ensure they don't ruin the healthy ones.

“Keep a close eye on them and as soon as a bloom looks past its best, whip it out and pop it in the compost; that way you’ll avoid it contaminating the water with any nasties,” explains Salmon.

“Eventually your vase will start to look a little sparse, but don’t panic – if there’s still life in some of the blooms just transfer them to little posy vases.”

3. Don’t forget to give them a mist

Just like us, our flowers need to keep cool in the summer, and an additional mist can help them beat the heat. Simply fill a spray bottle with cold water and mist your blooms a few times a day.

“Now’s the time to make friends with a spray bottle,” adds Salmon. “You can buy these in all sorts of places, like garden centres, homeware stores or online. We love an elegant amber glass spray bottle, because it’s beautiful and functional (and more eco-friendly than plastic to boot). Fill your bottle with cool water and mist your flowers a few times a day.”

Similarly, flowers thrive on food, and remember to feed your bouquet regularly to help it last longer. If you are ever unsure, simply look up your exact bloom variety to find the right food for them.

For more tips, check out these 5 ways to make your cut flowers last longer (and look better).

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There are a lot of fancy outdoor solar lights to brighten up your backyard, but few will be around for more than a season. So, when I tested Govee’s smart solar string lights, I was pleasantly surprised by the unshakeable feeling that these will last.

OK, they do come with a premium price tag, and it’s this factor that might make you stall before making a purchase, but you won’t find anything quite like these dazzling string lights on the market.

And as Govee steps into the smart lighting market for the first time, I can say it's done so with great success. For someone reluctant to add yet another app to her phone, I was actually excited to try out all the wizardry from a connected set of lights. In fact, I’ve given a set to my tech-loving dad for his 90th birthday.

Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights: Price and availability

I tested a set of Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights, with eight dimmable LEDs, available at Amazon for $99. They are also available at Walmart for $99, but are currently reduced to $79 at Govee.

They cost substantially more than Brightech’s Ambience Pro Solar String Lights, which are $21 at Amazon, for 12 lights, and recommended as the best overall solar lights in our buying guide. But as the Govee lights are smart, it’s not a fair comparison.

Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights: Design

The biggest advantage of these lights is that they're solar-powered, so you don’t need to rely on an external socket. What’s more, you won't fret if the weather turns cloudy; a built-in option lets you go old school and manually charge the battery. It’s these extras that make it a premium product.

So, what’s in the box? The solar lights come impressively packed and include a string of eight LED bulbs, with a large solar module, which can either be wall-mounted or staked into the soil. Each individual bulb features a convenient top loop, making it easy to hang from a hook or secure using the included ties.

And you don’t just get standard RGB bulbs; these RGBICW lights offer the flexibility to display more than just red, green and blue. You get the added extra of cold white, which, according to Govee, provides incredible brightness, more so than RGB and RGBIC lighting.

On the reverse side of the solar module, you’ll notice a USB-C charging port, an on/off button, and the cable connector. It’s also where the ground stake and mounting support are attached. The entire set-up feels solid and well-built. In fact, measuring 8.5 x 8.5 inches, it’s the largest solar module I’ve come across while reviewing solar lights.

However, if you have a small space, you may find these string lights awkward to hang, as the spacing between bulbs is a massive 62 inches. To capture them in one photo, I strung the lights around an arbor seat, which required some creative double-backing with the cable.

On the bright side, there is a generous gap between the last bulb and the solar module. If you want to place your lights in a shady area, you’ll likely have enough cable length to mount the solar panel in a spot that catches the sun.

Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights: Set-up

If you’re planning an outdoor party, don’t wait until five minutes before the first guest arrives to set these up. They are not difficult to assemble, but you will need a little time to install the app and get used to its customization features.

I started by manually charging the solar module, as recommended in the instruction manual. You can rely on the sun hereafter, if there’s enough of it. Next, I placed the lights around my garden arbor, using nails to keep the wires secure. You can also hang each bulb by its integrated top loop using the included cable ties — and thankfully, you get plenty.

When testing solar lights, I prefer to stake the solar module into the ground, and the stake supplied felt reliably sturdy — much more so than the stake supplied with the T-Sun LED spotlights, featured as the best budget option in our buying guide. If your soil is hard, give it a light watering before inserting the stake. However, you can mount the panel on a wall or fence to make the most of the sun. Adjusting the angle of the solar module to catch the best light is straightforward.

Once the lights and module were both in place, I connected them, then pressed and held down the on/off button on the back of the panel to power on the lights.

Setting up the app

To unlock the full functionality of these smart lights, you’ll need to download the Govee Home App. Fortunately, I’d already completed this step, from a previous review of the GoveeLife smart meat thermometer. From here, I turned on my Bluetooth, opened the app and searched for ‘H3001’. I was then able to complete the pairing with my phone located close to the solar module.

Now everything really does get started. Besides being bamboozled initially by what seemed like an infinite number of options, I quickly found my way around the app.

Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights: Functionality and performance

First off, you can set the brightness of the lights in the app, choosing 50%, 80%, or 100%. Right beside the brightness level is a timer — if you’re organized and want to set it to run on a schedule.

Although there are many color options, you can still stick to traditional white because sometimes a simple look is all you need. But if you really want to get the party started, there’s a whole lot more to keep you entertained.

Below the timer and brightness options, you'll see a row of options including Color, Scene, AI, Music, Share Space, DIY and More.

I was more interested in experimenting with color options, so I started adjusting the color temperature using a slider. One of the best parts of the app controls is that you can see the lighting change instantly, everything is in real time, there's no delay.

You have the option to pick from a basic color or play around with multi-tone color wheels. It brings a whole new dimension to scrolling on your phone. You can also save your preferred color choices.

I expected the color options to be the most mesmerizing part of the controls, but wait until you move on to other options. Beyond steady colors, you can select from an extensive array of multi-color changing patterns — there truly is a setting for every vibe.

Selecting ‘Starry Sky’ under the ‘Natural’ effects menu offers a gentle, soothing blend of colors, or ‘Bonfire’ gives you a bit more flash. There’s even a ‘Festival’ section to create a lighting display for Thanksgiving or Mother’s Day, and a whole lot more besides.

I really can’t overstate the sheer extent of options available.

You can even ask AI to design a custom lighting effect for you, or sync the lights to music to follow the rhythm. Govee hasn’t missed a trick. In fact, I used the AI tool to create a disco vibe from the 70s, and it took me right back to my youth.

Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights: Verdict

If you frequently spend time in your backyard and love entertaining outside, these Govee Outdoor String Lights will instantly elevate the mood and get your guests talking. Just keep in mind that if you want to string them across a wide expanse, you’ll need more than one box. Yes, they are the most expensive solar lights I’ve ever put to the test — but they are absolutely worth it. If you want the ultimate all-singing, all-dancing way to add a sparkle to your summer nights, Govee has you sorted.

Every time a major heatwave hits, the immediate reflex is to sprint to the thermostat and crank the air conditioning. But running your AC on blast is a losing battle if your house is actively fighting against you.

Recently, I audited my own home to track down the overlooked appliances and habits that were actively generating heat, and the impact on my comfort and energy bill was immediate.

It turns out that several everyday habits and overlooked household fixtures are quietly turning our living spaces into saunas. These practical, low-cost strategic adjustments to your sunlight, appliances, and electronics will slash your cooling costs tonight.

More from Tom's Guide

• 3 AC mistakes that are quietly spiking your energy bill — and how to fix them
• This NASA-approved plant hack cools your home for free
• How to cool down your living room without AC — 7 simple layout changes

Mowing my yard is one chore I never look forward to. Well, at least not as I get older. I used to love mowing the grass for the workout, but now it does nothing but trigger my allergies.

I've experimented with robot lawnmowers in the past. I've paid $175 a month — even during the winter, when they weren't in use — to rent a couple of Husqvarna mowers from a landscaping company. Eventually, I realized it wasn't a wise investment, so I canceled the contract. Later on, I tested the EcoFlow Blade for a while, but its wheels loved to dig holes in my yard with each and every turn, so eventually I stopped using it.

For the last month, I've been testing the Sunseeker S4, a robot lawnmower that leverages AI and LiDAR for mapping and navigation. I don't want to spoil the review, but I'm smitten.

Sunseeker S4 review: Price and availability

The Sunseeker S4 is currently available directly from Sunseeker with a regular price of $1,799 but a sale price of $1,299, but Amazon has it on sale right now for just $984. That includes the robot lawnmower, a docking station, extra blades, and a cleaning brush for the LiDAR sensor.

If you're reading this and the S4 has returned to its normal price, I'd wait for a sale.

Sunseeker S4 review: Design

The S4 doesn't break the mold when it comes to the robot lawnmower's overall design. It's compact, measuring 25.12 x 16.61 x 10.79 inches, and weighs 26 pounds. In the event the robot gets stuck somewhere and you need to lift it, there's a handle built into the rear of the housing that makes it a breeze to pick up.

On the front of the S4 is a monocular camera with a 360-degree LiDAR sensor on top. It's tucked into a bumper that slightly moves in when the lawnmower presses against a hard object, The sensor is easy to spot due to its black bubble-like housing.

Behind the LiDAR bubble is a flip-up cover that hides an LCD display and a few buttons you can use to interact with the S4 — although I rarely had a need to do so — and a manual dial you use to adjust the cutting height, which ranges from 1.6 to 3.2 inches. There's a giant red STOP button that you can press to immediately stop the S4 in case of an emergency.

Underneath the stop button is the handle I previously mentioned. The S4 is rear-wheel driven with two trolley wheels that spin and move wherever the two rear wheels push the robot. Sunseeker's specs put the max gradient at 22 degrees — a stat that didn't apply to my mostly flat backyard. However, there's a slight slope to my front yard (I've never measured it), but the S4 didn't have any issues with slipping, even if the grass was wet.

When you flip the S4 over, you'll see six blades attached to a disc. It always amazes me when I test a robot lawnmower how small the blades are; they often look like razor blades you'd find in a box cutter.

Sunseeker S4 review: Installation and mapping

Setting up the S4 was a breeze. You'll first need to decide where you want to — and can — install the charging station. It measures 30 x 19 x 14.5 inches and can be placed at the edge of your yard, or even outside of it if you'd rather. You'll need a weatherproof electrical outlet nearby.

I already had a section of my yard that'd been killed by previous robot lawnmower docks, so it was an easy choice for me. I swapped out the old broken station and replaced it with the Sunseeker S4 in about 10 minutes. After sliding the S4 into the charging station, I created an account in the Sunseeker app, connected the S4 to my account and waited for the battery to fully charge.

The app walked me through the initial mapping of my yard, which required me to drive the S4 to a starting point along the edge of my grass. At that point, I could either continue to use my phone as a Bluetooth remote control and manually map my yard, or I could let the S4 automatically roam around the edge and create a map on its own. I stood by, ready to take over if needed, but the S4 slowly and judiciously creeped along the edge of my grass.

The S4 is the first robot lawnmower I've used that maps on its own, and I was impressed. There were a few areas I had to go back and manually drive the S4 over, adding to the existing map, but it was a much easier and streamlined process than I'd experienced with the EcoFlow Blade.

After mapping my backyard, I created a second zone, consisting of my front yard and let the S4 work its magic with mapping. There are a couple of trees in that yard, along with more corners and angled sections — unlike my backyard that has three flat edges. The S4 needed a little more help with correcting the front yard's map, but overall the process was simple.

So simple, in fact, I deleted both maps in the app and went through the process multiple times with similar results. You can save maps in the Sunseeker app and easily switch between them, which is also a nice touch.

My favorite part of mapping my yard, however, wasn't how easy it was, but instead it was the 3D map the LiDAR sensor created that I could view in the app.

It's one thing to read that a device has LiDAR and assume it'll help with object identification, navigation and mapping — but it's another to actually see what the S4 sees, down to the batting cage in the back corner of my yard along with the power and cable lines that run above my yard.

As far as object detection and avoidance goes, the S4 routinely routed itself around objects as big as my English Bulldog who walks in front of it daily, or as small as a Wiffle ball my kids leave in the yard. I didn’t expect it to see the latter at all and run it over instead, but once it gets within a few inches, it stops, slightly turns and goes around it.

Sunseeker S4 review: Performance

With two zones created, I used the Sunseeker app to create a path between them. I then set a schedule for Zone 1, the backyard, to be mowed Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. There's a gate between my yards, so I couldn't set a schedule for Zone 2 as I have to manually open and close the gate when the robot needs to get through.

According to the Sunseeker app, Zone 1 is 3,184.96 square feet and Zone 2 is 2,690 square feet, for a total of 5,874.96 square feet between the two.

The initial pass over my backyard with grass — which was longer than I'd like to admit — required a couple of trips to the charging station. The S4 ran for around 90 minutes each time, and then took a couple of hours to charge before heading back out to complete the task.

The same can be said about mowing the front yard, which I asked it to do the following day. That process was tedious, only because I had to monitor the battery status in the app to let the S4 into the backyard so it could charge, and then let it back out once the battery was full. In total, it was two trips back and forth.

However, after that initial cut, the S4's cut time has dropped significantly. The backyard does require a return trip to charge for a little over an hour, then it heads back out for 20 minutes to finish the job. In total, it takes just under 2 hours of cutting time to mow the backyard — or just over 3 hours if you include charging time.

If I'm paying attention, I can catch it right after it finishes the backyard and manually redirect it to the front yard. From there, it tackles the rest of the lawn and returns to the dock on its own, completely finished in roughly an hour and forty-five minutes.

As for how good of a job it does at cutting grass, for the first few sessions it'd leave little rows of grass between each pass with the default cutting direction setting. However, after switching the cutting direction to traceless, which means each time the S4 cuts it changes direction, those missed rows have disappeared. If you’d prefer to have patterns cut in your yard, you can set the S4 to create items like a heart, a trophy, a star, or a soccer ball. It can also cut a pattern to represent numbers.

My lone complaint about the cutting performance of the S4 can be said about any of the robot lawnmowers I've owned — none of them can cut the edge of the yard. For the S4, it has a cutting width of 7 inches, but there's 4.3 inches between the edge of the lawnmower's housing and the blades. So, no matter how close you get the map to the edge of your grass, there's always going to be a small section of grass it just can't cut.

It's a fair trade, I guess. Instead of having to bribe my son to mow the yard maybe once every two weeks, my yards are mowed multiple times a week.

Sunseeker S4 review: Storage & maintenance

The S4's charging station serves as the main storage area for the robot when not in use. Along with charging it, there's an overhang to protect the top of the S4, complete with a brush to keep the LiDAR bubble clean. If you want more protection, Sunseeker sells a Sunproof Garage that extends the protection to the entire lawnmower.

During the winter months — and for that matter if you're expecting a lot of rain — I'd recommend removing the S4 from the dock and moving it indoors. During my testing, I had a rainstorm come through that dumped two inches of rain on us in an hour. It took me a couple of days to notice the S4 hadn't run on its set schedule, and upon further inspection I realized it wasn't even turning on.

I turned it upside down, removed the battery and let it dry out for a day, after which it came back to life. I have no idea how high the water got in my yard, but I do know there was standing water most of the night.

It's a good reminder that even though the S4 has an IPX6 waterproof rating, it's still susceptible to the elements.

As for routine maintenance on the S4, the Sunseeker app has a device maintenance menu that tracks when you should replace the blades (after 120 hours of use) and when you should wash the cutting disc (after 60 hours of use).

Otherwise, keeping the front camera and the LiDAR bubble clean are the only things you need to worry about.

Sunseeker S4 review: Verdict

This was my first time using a Sunseeker robot lawnmower, and it did not disappoint. My yard hasn't consistently looked this good in years. The Sunseeker S4 was easy to set up, forgoing the need to install a dedicated GPS antenna like the EcoFlow Blade, or bury a guide wire like previous Husqvarna mowers I've used.

Battery life is good enough for its 0.25-acre limit, and after fine-tuning the settings you'll get a clean cut every time.

Well, except for the edges. Make sure to keep a trimmer handy.

Shark is a brand that knows how to make a good vacuum. In fact, when it comes to the best vacuum cleaners we've ever tested, Shark holds two of the seven top spots. Impressive, huh? But, it doesn't coast on its past success, releasing new innovative products on a pretty regular basis.

Its latest release, though, really feels like it might have outdone itself. The Shark PowerDetect Transformer vacuum has just launched, but it's not just one product – it's three. While it's an upright vacuum at first glance, it can easily be reconfigured into a lightweight stick vacuum or powerful handheld.

Now, when I hear the name Transformer, my mind goes immediately to the iconic robots. And while I loved that as a kid, my adult form is a big fan of the vacuum version.

About the Shark PowerDetect Transformer

The Shark PowerDetect Transformer is a little bit of everything. While you've got your full-size upright to begin with, it can easily be changed into a stick vacuum that's flexible and lightweight, or a handheld for those above-floor and tight spaces.

What you get with a lot of vacuums right now is a whole suite of cleaning tools to complete the job, but what the PowerDetect Transformer aims to do is streamline all of that into just one transforming system. And it's really as easy as one click to turn the upright into a handheld with the removable pod. Then, you simply click it back onto the upright and it'll empty itself into the main dust cup.

As Petra Oman, VP of Marketing at SharkNinja explains: "The upright vacuum has looked and worked the same way for decades. We saw an opportunity to rethink the category by eliminating the bulky hose and creating a system that adapts to the way people actually clean."

And it's not just an impressive reconfiguring vacuum that you get, but there's smarts packed inside, too. With both PowerDetect and Reveal technologies onboard, it's capable of finding hidden dirt and debris that usually goes unnoticed and then responds to the environment from floor types to edges.

Here's why I can't wait to try it

I've got a Shark vacuum right now, but I'll admit that I get fed up with the hose getting in my way, especially when going up the stairs or reaching for those annoying corners. I also absolutely hate when the attachments have a mind of their own, detaching themselves from my upright when I'm manoeuvring around.

What I've really been after is something streamlined that's still capable of tackling my whole home, and that's where the Shark PowerDetect Transformer seems like it could really fit the bill.

All three cleaning forms in one system for one price? Sign me up. And while it's a little more expensive than the likes of the Shark PowerDetect Clean & Empty Vacuum, which launched for $499, or the Shark Stratos for $399, it's also not that much more considering it's a 3-in-1.

I'm also a big fan of the colorways, as well as the big Transformer logo down the shaft of the handheld. I never thought I'd see a day when I'd get excited about a Transformer that was a vacuum instead of a robot, but here we are. I'll reserve my full judgment for when we get hands-on for a full review.

More from Tom's Guide

• I just tried the new Shark PowerDetect robot vacuum — and this one upgrade changes everything
• Which Shark robot vacuum should I buy? How to pick the best model for your needs and budget
• I tried Shark's new misting and cooling handheld fan, but is the ‘ChillPill’ worth the hype?

Quartzite countertops are a stunning and durable addition to any modern kitchen. While true quartzite is incredibly hard and naturally resistant to both scratching and acid etching, many varieties on the market are actually 'soft quartzites' that behave more like marble.

Because of this industry crossover, knowing how to clean quartzite countertops safely is essential to preserving their protective sealer and natural shine. Fortunately, proper quartzite countertop cleaning is straightforward once you know what works and what to avoid.

What never to use on quartzite

Before you reach into your cleaning cabinet, you must be aware of products that can strip your stone's protective sealer or damage mislabeled soft quartzite.

• Harsh acids: You should strictly avoid vinegar, lemon juice, and citric acid cleaners.
• Chemical cleaners: It is equally important to skip bleach, ammonia-based sprays, and heavy-duty bathroom cleaners.
• Abrasives: Never use abrasive scouring pads, steel wool, or gritty scrubbing powders that can scratch the surface finish.

Do not assume that natural cleaners are inherently safe for your kitchen. A DIY vinegar and lemon spray will dull a sealed countertop quickly, so you should stick exclusively to pH-balanced dish soap or specialized stone cleaners.

Safe quartzite cleaning methods

The annual sealer test

Because quartzite is a natural stone, it relies on a chemical sealer to keep liquids pooling on the surface rather than soaking in. You should test the integrity of your sealer at least once a year by pouring a few drops of water onto a high-use area of the counter.

If the water beads up, your sealer is doing its job and your stone remains protected. If the water soaks into the stone within a few minutes and leaves a temporary dark spot, you should apply a high-quality natural stone sealer immediately to prevent future damage.

More from Tom's Guide

• 'I can't remember the last time I cleaned this' — 5 hidden dirt zones in your house and how to clean them
• The hidden part of your kitchen harbouring bacteria — and how to clean it for good
• 6 easy tips for removing limescale from your shower door — the simple solution is hiding in your kitchen

With an impending heatwave across much of the States, we’re not the only ones overheating.

It turns out that the heat is putting an extra strain on our household appliances — especially if we’re running our cooling fans and air conditioning units for longer than usual to keep comfortable.

But if you notice an unusual or ‘fishy smell’ inside your home, an expert has warned that this should never be ignored. This is because it could be an early indicator that your electrical components are overheating and need immediate attention. And if left unresolved, this can risk sparking a hazardous electrical fire or permanently ruining your equipment. Here’s everything you need to know this summer.

Why can I smell a fishy smell?

According to an expert, an unusual smell could be an early indication that household devices, outlets, or internal wiring are currently overheating. But why does this often cause a metallic or fish-like scent?

“A fishy or metallic smell throughout your home may seem unpleasant yet harmless; however, you shouldn’t ignore it,” advises Ben Rawson, Electrical Heating Expert from Electric Radiators Direct.

“When electrical components such as wires or outlets overheat, the smell produced can often be fishy. This smell indicates potential overheating and, in worse cases, electrical fires.

“During periods of hot weather, when many households are relying on fans and cooling appliances for longer periods, it’s especially important not to ignore this smell.”

What’s more, during a heatwave, any extra warmth generated by your household devices makes cooling down your living space much more difficult.

For top tips, check out these appliances you need to unplug right now to cool down your home in a heatwave.

What should you do to fix this?

Whether you notice a metallic odor, or simply want to take preventative measures, what are the first steps to follow?

“To avoid electrical fires, turn off and unplug any appliances that were recently in use as a first step,” advises Rawson. “Following this, avoid using outlet sockets, switches or extension cables that feel warm to the touch.”

In addition, if you suspect electrical faults or damage, always call in a professional to do the relevant checks or fix any issues — instead of attempting a dangerous DIY fix.

“Don’t attempt to fix the electrical issues yourself,” adds Rawson. “Call a qualified electrician to diagnose the problem and make repairs.

“Smells are often overlooked in the home; however, they can be one of the earliest warning signs of serious problems. Acting quickly and putting preventative measures in place not only protects your health and safety but can also save you from costly repairs down the line.”

So if you ever notice a ‘fishy’ aroma wafting through your home — assuming you aren't preparing dinner — you might well want to have an expert inspect your household devices this summer.

More from Tom's Guide

• Frozen bed sheets and cold spoons — weird tips for how to sleep cool during a heatwave
• 5 ways to prepare your AC for a heatwave
• How to cool down a room in a heatwave — 10 essential tips

The Ooni Karu 2 is a compact outdoor pizza oven, capable of cooking up to 12-inch pizzas and using three different types of fuel. Formerly named the 12G, the Karu 2 is one step up from the entry-level Karu 12. It gives newbies and intermediate pizza makers everything they need, wrapped up in a compact, foldable design and with the versatility of multiple fueling types.

It isn’t the cheapest, but its premium build makes up for that; and when using charcoal or wood the temps can get a little variable, although nothing that a few pizza’s worth of experience won’t let you handle.

Is this the best pizza oven for you? Find out in my full Ooni Karu 2 review.

Ooni Karu 2 review: Specs

Ooni Karu 2 review: Price & availability

The Ooni Karu 2 costs $449 at Amazon and Ooni, while in the U.K. it costs £349 at Amazon. This model (the 2026 variant) just dropped to $349 during Amazon’s Prime Day sales in June 2026, so I’d recommend holding out for sales to scoop up a discount.

The MSRP and feature set make the Karu 2 an mid-range pizza oven, although it’s very similar to the entry-level Karu 12 ($349), which doesn’t feature a glass door and burns fuel a little quicker (otherwise, the specs are virtually the same). The Karu 2 kinda straddles that border between (pricey) entry-level and mid-range.

The Karu 2 is priced similarly to the Gozney Roccbox ($499), which is also a multi-fuel oven, although the Gozney can't technically use charcoal.

There are more affordable alternatives, like the Big Horn 12-inch Multi-Fuel pizza oven ($169). But the Big Horn lacks that premium polish of Ooni and Gozney ovens — you’re paying big-name prices for the Karu 2, but getting a premium product in return.

Note that you’ll need some accessories, especially if this is your first time cooking pizza. This will add to your overall spend and I’ll cover it more in the Accessories section below.

Ooni Karu 2 review: Design

Before you can do anything with the Karu 2, you gotta build it. There’s usually some assembly required with pizza ovens, although the Gozney Arc and Tread are mostly just a case of sliding in the stone and doing a pre-cook burn.

The Karu 2 is a little more in-depth, but not complicated. It comes half built: you basically just install the door and add the chimney. There are instructions included, which I found clear and easy to follow. There’s a video walkthrough online, although it’s a little misleading and caused some owners to damage their ovens. I just followed the included instructions and didn’t go wrong. After building, you get it up to temperature for 30 minutes to burn off any residual coatings from manufacturing.

I love that the hex key you use to build the oven stows under the rear leg once you’ve finished assembly, simultaneously locking the leg into place for safety. Very handy.

Assembled, the Karu 2 feels like a premium product. I love the matte black housing and brushed metal trim, and the whole product feels generally high quality and built to last. The pizza stone itself is reassuringly thick and engraved with the Ooni logo, plus there’s a glass door — both adding to the premium feel.

The Karu 2 measures 30 x 16 x 28 inches, making it a fairly compact oven when compared to beasts like the Gozney Dome XL Gen 2 ($2,799).

At 33lbs, I found the Karu 2 relatively easy to carry around, too, although it’s not exactly ‘lightweight’. Thankfully, the legs fold down and the chimney is easy to remove, which stops it being an awkward shape to transport. Theoretically the Karu 2 is designed to be suitable for taking out on the road, but if it’s sheer portability you’re after, I’d recommend the smaller and lighter Gozney Tread ($499)

Fuel

The Karu 2 is an outdoor oven, running on either gas, wood or charcoal. This makes it highly versatile: if you’re out of gas, just head down to the store and pick up some lumpwood charcoal or (cook safe) wood kindling. The Gozney Roccbox is multi-fuel, but isn’t technically capable of using charcoal, making it a little more restrictive. The larger Ooni Karu 16 ($799) is more versatile, though, as it can also use pellets.

Controls

There are no complicated controls on the Karu 2, only an ambient temperature gauge on the right-hand side and a chimney dial to change air flow and bring flames over the top of the pizza. As such, it’s very simple to use. Just add fuel to the fuel tray via the hatch at the back, light it up and go.

Ooni Karu 2 review: Accessories

As I mentioned above, if you’re new to pizza ovens or pizza-making in general, you’re gonna need some accessories. The basic accessory you need is a pizza peel, to assemble on and then “launch” your pizza into the oven. These come in metal or wood, but for beginners I’d recommend wood peels as they’re easier to launch from.

I tested Ooni’s 12-inch Bamboo peel ($40); the Ooni Turning Peel ($65) for turning the pizza while cooking and removing it; and the Ooni Infrared Thermometer Gun ($65) for measuring the stone temperature (the Karu 2’s temperature gauge only measures ambient temperature, which doesn’t tell you when the stone is ready to cook). These are all high quality, although as you can see, they’ll cost ya. If you want to use the Karu 2 with propane, you’ll need to drop another $112 into the gas adapter.

I also tested Ooni’s folding metal table ($249), which is fantastic. It‘s designed to have the oven on top, but with its smooth stainless steel surface, I preferred using it for prep and dough stretching — as an ex chef, working on it was like being back in a commercial kitchen. It also has three hooks that can be fitted to either side for hanging accessories. I put the oven on a folding camping table instead, which was possible thanks to the Karu 2’s relatively low weight.

Ooni offers various bundles, which are also often on sale, so keep an eye out for those. Of course, you can grab way more affordable alternatives to all these accessories online.

Ooni Karu 2 review: Performance

I’m very impressed with the Karu 2’s performance. It isn’t perfect, but this thing will still give any newcomers the pizza bug. It’ll also give more experienced pizza makers like me everything they need. It’s extremely versatile and capable of producing fantastic pizza. The only major limitation is its fueling, which leads to some variable results. I’ll cover this below.

With a full tray of fuel, the Karu 2 took around 10-12 minutes for the stone to get up to 750F/400C, which was the temperature I needed for neapolitan style pizza. I used a combination of lumpwood charcoal and beech pizza logs to cook, and this combo seemed to get things really hot, really fast. The Gozney Arc Lite ($399), meanwhile, took 15-20 minutes to heat up on gas.

The charcoal I used provided a constant and lasting base of intense heat. By adding chunks of wood before each pie went in, I created intense spikes of heat and a flame over the top to cook toppings. This is easy: just open the rear hatch and drop fuel in as needed. For 5 pizzas, I needed 2-3 handfuls of lumpwood charcoal and 5-6 small logs — not much, but this will add up over time (although fuel is always something you have to factor in).

Because you’re adding fuel by eye and need to top up constantly as you cook, heat levels are variable in a way you won’t see from a gas-fed oven like the Ooni Koda 16 ($599) or Gozney Arc Lite. This means you’ll experience variations in temperature. This could be between cooks, meaning one pizza takes longer than another; but it can also be intra-cook, as fuel runs out and temperatures drop, leading to one side of your pizza crust rising more than another. Of course, you can simply buy the gas adapter to fix this.

This was my only major issue with the Karu 2, though, and wasn’t a big deal in use. I just had to keep a close eye on my pizzas as they cooked and adjust fuel accordingly. Sure, I got a couple of oddly risen pizzas and a few burnt crusts, but it’s all part of the fun. (Anyway, I kinda like a burnt crust.)

I primarily cooked Neapolitan style pizzas on my Karu 2, and whatever I made came out super tasty. Some highlights were an Ndjua pizza which I then added a whole burrata to after cooking (this went so fast I didn’t get a chance to take photos); fennel sausage and red onion; and an artichoke and roasted red pepper pizza for my wife, who is vegetarian. I also made the typical slew of old favorites: margherita, ham and mushroom, marinara, etc.

When cooking for a group of friends, I was able to deliver five pizzas in a row and keep everyone happy. For larger groups, though, I’d look at an oven capable of cooking multiple pizzas at once (like the Gozney Dome XL) or larger 16-inch pizzas (like the Ooni Koda 16 or Gozney Arc XL).

When cooking for a group, I used the oven’s dropping temperature to pitch towards low’n’slow style pizzas, like New York style, cooking margheritas at lower heats for longer, to get that properly browned mozzarella on top. Delicious.

I also used the oven to cook side dishes, like charred red pepper and tenderstem broccoli. So it proved to be a great all-in-one solution for group meals outdoors (although, I spent all the time manning the oven, rather than sitting with my friends).

Ooni Karu 2 review: Storage & maintenance

While the Karu 2 is mostly rainproof, you can’t leave it outside exposed to the elements, as temperature changes can cause the stone to crack. At the very least, remove the stone if you’re going to do that. But ideally use a cover (Ooni sells one for $50), move it under shelter or stow in a garage/shed.

As I mentioned earlier, the Karu 2 is fairly easy to move, so I had no issues returning it to my garage after each use. A full cooldown takes around 60-90 minutes once you’ve removed the fuel tray, at which point you can clean and move the oven.

The Karu 2’s cook heat is high enough that it’s effectively self-cleaning. Just wipe down the stone with a dry cloth after use to remove loose debris, and wipe the soot from the inside of the case once cooled. For any tougher burnt remnants on the stone, simply fire up the oven to max temperature and burn everything off. Never get your stone wet while its hot, and avoid wetting it altogether otherwise.

Ooni Karu 2 review: Verdict

If you want a versatile little pizza oven, perhaps as your first upgrade from using your kitchen oven, look no further than the Karu 2. It isn’t the cheapest on the market, and its fueling can lead to unstable temperatures.

However, it heats up fast and makes excellent pizza, while the temperature variations can be managed easily through experience or by adapting the oven to gas). It’s a premium product that feels built to last, is easy to maintain and fairly easy to store, too. It’s just the ideal oven for first-timers, and I’m kinda sad my time testing it has now come to an end.

If I have one major cleaning gripe, it’s streaky glass. Be it smudges, fingerprints, or unsightly streaks, these marks can easily ruin a clear view to the outside world.

And while knowing how to clean windows may seem like a no-brainer, a truly flawless finish often requires considerable effort and multiple passes. Even with my trusted window cleaner, it’s always taken me some level of elbow grease to achieve those spotless results.

But that was until I tried white vinegar to clean my windows — and, to my surprise, it actually worked. Not only is this kitchen essential a chemical-free, natural alternative, but it is also a budget-friendly, DIY solution that can also be used to spruce up your mirrors.

So if you want to have streak-free glass in no time, here’s how to clean windows with white vinegar.

Why is white vinegar so good at cleaning windows?

So why is distilled white vinegar so good for windows? While this kitchen staple has long been a household mainstay, it’s earned a reputation as a 'miracle' solution for its impressive cleaning prowess.

Not only is vinegar known for cutting through limescale and getting rid of stubborn stains, but it is also great for watermarks.

This is mainly thanks to its highly acidic nature, which effortlessly dissolves the buildup of grime found on glass surfaces. As a result, this can easily banish streaks without damaging the window.

Unlike commercial cleaners, vinegar has no harmful toxins, simply requiring dilution with water to be just as effective.

How to make a vinegar window cleaning solution

First, make sure you do the prep before cleaning your glass. That means using a vacuum cleaner or soft cloth to get rid of cobwebs or dust particles around the window frame.

Next up, combine one part vinegar to 10 parts warm water in a clean spray bottle. If your windows are particularly grimy, add a few drops of dish soap to help lift off and dissolve those tougher particles more easily. Then simply shake the solution well, and you're ready to tackle your windows.

How to clean windows with white vinegar

To tackle those unsightly fingerprints left by my son, I gave my glass patio doors a generous spritz of my solution and allowed it to sit for a few minutes.

Then I took a microfiber cloth to wipe away the solution in a circular or Z-motion pattern.

Once there were no visible marks left, I then buffed the glass with another dry microfiber cloth.

I was surprised to see how well the streaks and smudges had disappeared and my glass was gleaming again. I was also pleased that it didn’t take me much effort or time to see spotless results.

It’s worth noting that it’s advisable to dilute distilled vinegar before using it on glass, as the acidity of straight vinegar may damage your glass.

Ideally, aim to clean with white vinegar every couple of weeks or as soon as your windows look dirty. Now my windows are crystal clear, and I can finally see outside again without horrid smudge marks.

Plus, it might be worth checking out these 5 top tips to avoid streaks when cleaning your windows.

More from Tom's Guide

• how to clean a glass shower door
• Plus, here's how to clean a mirror without leaving streaks
• And vinegar vs baking soda — which is best at cleaning?

One of the biggest drawbacks of smart locks is that, unlike traditional locks, they’ll eventually run out of power, which means replacing or recharging their batteries at least once a year.

The best smart locks try to lengthen this time as much as possible, but the Lockin Veno Solar could eliminate that inconvenience entirely. It has a solar panel on the exterior portion that very slowly charges up the lock's battery, so that you never have to worry about recharging it or replacing the batteries.

The Lockin Veno Solar is actually available in two variants -- one has a facial unlock feature, and the other has a palm vein unlocking feature. I’ve been testing the Face model to find out if it does enough beyond simply taking care of power for you to be worth buying.

Lockin Veno Solar review: Price and availability

The Veno Solar series went on sale in mid- 2026, with both the Palm and Face models starting at $199 (you can pay $259.99 for a model that bundles a door handle). I'm reviewing the Face variant.

You can get the Lockin Veno Solar series for yourself straight from the Lockin website or from Amazon.

Design and setup

Installing the Lockin Veno Solar is very similar to installing any other smart lock that replaces your deadbolt. This is not a retrofit lock, so you will need to replace the interior thumb latch, the deadbolt in the door, and the exterior portion of the lock.

Essentially, you'll unscrew your existing lock and deadbolt, then fit the included lock and deadbolt and thread the exterior portion of the lock through to the inside. Then screw the base plate into that exterior part of the lock and fit the thumb latch portion onto the base plate. The whole process should only take 15 to 20 minutes.

After you're done physically installing the lock, you'll need to add it to the Lockin app. I also found this process to be quite easy. You'll download the app, then either sign in to your account or create a new one if you don't have one already. Then simply follow the on-screen instructions to add a new lock. I found it was recognized immediately. In this process, you'll be walked through the face scan.

On the outside of your door, there's a keypad with either the palm vein scanner or the face scanner, depending on the model you go for. There's no fingerprint sensor on either of them, but there is a solar panel on the bottom third or so, and you might not be able to tell that's what it is if you didn't already know. The lock also has a physical key slot, which can come in handy if something stops working or a guest needs to enter.

On the inside, there's a thumb latch along with a button to mechanically lock or unlock the door. There's also a cover for the battery compartment which, hopefully, you'll never have to open after you install it.

The lock seems to be durable enough, but it's not quite as weather resistant as some other smart locks. It has an IP53 rating, which is fine for some water spray. It held up during my testing, but to be fair, the weather has been pretty nice where I live. The lock also has an ANSI Grade 3 certification.

Performance

The Face model that I reviewed captures depth-sensing 3D face recognition that Lockin rates at under one second. In practice it was generally fast enough, though I wouldn't call it instant -- and it didn't feel like it was under one second. It usually took a second or two for the lock to realize there was someone outside the door and start scanning in the first place. Once the scanning started, it took less than a second, but there was still that initial lag.

This isn't a dealbreaker, and to be clear, face scanning is still convenient — but it would be even more convenient if the lock supported a feature like Ultra Wide Band (UWB) or Aliro, which allows the lock to sense your phone or watch, and unlock based on that signal.

I did find that the lock's Wi-Fi connectivity was quite good. I placed the lock on the door to my garden shed, which has historically had limited reception -- plenty of other smart locks I've tested struggle to hold a connection out there. This one stayed reliably online throughout.

As for the solar charging, it's slow. The lock arrived at 83% out of the box, and a week later it had crept up to 90%. That sounds underwhelming, but it's worth remembering what the point isn't fast charging — it's that the battery doesn't drain over time. And it didn't. It slowly gained power instead of losing it, which is exactly the behavior you want from a solar lock.

App and smart home

The Lockin Smart app is how you'll control the lock's settings and features. You can create one-time PINs, enroll new faces and PIN codes, set up auto-lock settings, and so on. One thing I would have liked to see is an overview of how much battery the device gets over time, but not having it isn't a huge deal.

Unlike the Desloc V150 Plus, which is the other solar-powered smart lock that I've reviewed recently, the Lockin Veno Solar supports Matter, which means you can integrate it into a variety of smart home ecosystems. You have to set the lock up in the Lockin app, but you don't have to control it there. Instead, you can control it through apps like Google Home or Apple Home and integrate it into automations and other cross-product systems. Matter support is kind of table stakes for smart locks these days, so it's nice to see it here.

Verdict

The Lockin Veno Solar is a solid smart lock, and for what it offers, it's perhaps the best option. That's to say, the lock has solar charging, so you never have to worry about manually charging or replacing the batteries. But it goes beyond that with a decently convenient unlocking method and, perhaps even more importantly, Matter support, so it'll work with a wide array of modern smart home ecosystems.

There are some limitations. For example, if you routinely get torrential rain, you might be slightly concerned about the IP53 water resistance. And it's worth keeping in mind that it's going to take a second or two to unlock your door if you rely on the face scanner. But, if you like the idea of not having to worry about charging your lock, for now, this one is the way to go.

Hollyhocks are my absolute favorite flowers, ever, and I'm lucky enough to have a few of these beauties in my own garden. They are the ultimate cottage garden classic: tall with large, gorgeous blooms, the kind of plant that just commands attention. But they can also be incredibly frustrating.

It’s a classic gardening letdown, isn't it? You spend all summer admiring those towering stalks, only for them to vanish, leaving you wondering if you did something wrong. The trick to a reliable yearly display, however, is simply working with their natural two-year lifecycle.

By spending just a minute at the end of the season to guide their seeding process, you can easily establish a permanent, self-sustaining patch that comes back every summer.

• Ditch the bark mulch: Hardwood bark mulch chips act like a shield. Hollyhock seeds need direct contact with the soil and consistent summer moisture to germinate. If you must mulch for weed control, switch to a thin layer of rich, well-rotted compost, which naturally breaks down into a loose, fertile seedbed.
  
• Keep soil exposed and untilled: Ensure the ground immediately surrounding your current hollyhocks is slightly exposed. Avoid digging up or tilling this area in the autumn, as you will bury the dropped seeds too deep. They prefer to sit right on the surface.
  
• Learn to recognize the 'Babies': In the autumn or early the following spring, tiny new hollyhock leaves will begin to carpet the ground. They look like small, fuzzy, rounded green saucers with scalloped edges. Learn to spot them immediately so you don't accidentally pull them up during your seasonal weeding sessions.

More from Tom's Guide

• This is what's really causing your tomato leaves to curl — and how to actually fix it
• Forget buying new seeds: these 9 gorgeous flowers come back for free every year
• How to sharpen a lawn mower blade in 5 simple steps (and save your grass)

There's a special kind of dread that comes with cat ownership, and it isn't the 3 a.m. zoomies or the inexplicable need to sit exactly on your laptop keyboard. It's the litter box. So when the Oneisall Ease S1, a CES Innovation Award 2026 winner earlier this year, landed on my doorstep, I'll admit I was skeptical.

We've reached a point where everything from toasters to toothbrushes claims to be "smart," and a litter box felt like it might be a solution looking for a problem. A few weeks in, I've changed my tune.

The Ease S1 sits in the ever-increasing robot pet tech space, but at $299 normally (and currently down to $194 on Amazon, and $229 directly from their website), it's a fraction of the price of premium rivals like the Litter-Robot.

Setup and first impressions

Unboxing the Ease S1 was a massive relief because it completely skips the worst part of modern gadgets: there is no app to configure, no subscription to pay for, and no fuss. You just set up the open-top tray, and it automatically handles the sifting five minutes after your cat hops out.

Best of all, it deposits everything into a bottom drawer that holds up to 14 days of waste, give or take, so you can forget about it for a fortnight.

Setup was genuinely painless. It arrives with a clear installation guide, snaps together without tools, and includes everything you need: a litter mat, full-cover pad, power adapter, and a stack of 80 liners.

My only gripe, and it's a small one, is that mine didn't come with a UK plug, so I had to dig out an adapter. Worth knowing if you're ordering from outside the US, though it may just be an unlucky unit.

The tech in practice (and two very opinionated cats)

For me, the standout feature has to be the tilt mechanism. Rather than the enclosed, rotating-dome design used by other smart litter boxes, the Ease S1 moves waste toward the center of the tray as it tips, what Oneisall calls its "5-second rinse, zero dead-angle residue" tech.

In practice, this means you don't get the gunky build-up that dome-style boxes are prone to, where waste smears into corners and lingers. Cleaning the stainless-steel components is quick, too: in both removal and rinsing, of course it might need a more thorough clean depending on the type of movement.

Initially safety was my biggest concern — how would my cats fare with a self-cleaning machine? It's well covered, though, with a sensor array of motion, weight, and radar detection that pauses the cycle instantly if your cat so much as thinks about wandering back in. So it didn't take long for that worry to disappear entirely.

But while my own anxiety was sorted, my cats had two completely different reactions. Haku (yes, named after the dragon in Spirited Away), my younger and considerably more adventurous one, was investigating the tray before it had even been switched on.

Chanel, on the other hand, who is well into her twilight years, was having none of it. She gave the Ease S1 the kind of suspicious side-eye usually reserved for vet carriers, and avoided it for the best part of a week.

The fix — and this is worth flagging for anyone considering this — is to transfer some of the old, used litter into the new tray. Cats navigate largely by scent, and a brand-new, oddly-mechanized box smelling of nothing familiar is understandably off-putting. Once Chanel had that reassurance, she came around.

My verdict

So, is a self-cleaning cat litter tray overkill? I went in assuming yes. But the same logic that justified the robo vac applies here. It's about reclaiming the bits of your day you'd rather not think about. Scooping litter twice a day is not, and has never been, a highlight of pet ownership.

The Ease S1 isn't perfect. It's big and bulky, so if you're in a smaller apartment that's worth factoring in. The bin sensor can be a little trigger-happy, too, meaning you might not always hit that full 14-day max capacity before it asks for a bag change. But for the price, it's hard to argue with what it gets right.

Even if you have to empty it slightly ahead of schedule, swapping daily scooping for a fortnightly chore is an absolute game-changer. Sometimes the smart home really does earn its name, paw prints and all.

More from Tom's Guide

• I put an action cam on my cat and let him roam wild — here's what he saw
• My cats tested this smart pet feeder for a month — and now I can’t stop watching them
• I thought it was weird spying on my cats with this new robotic litter box — but it does more than just record them

Prime Day 2026 is juuuuuust around the corner, starting next Tuesday, July 7 and running for a full week. There's going to be prices slashed on almost everything, including some of the best home security cameras, such as those from Amazon's budget brand, Blink.

However, Blink has already seen some impressive discounts in the lead-up to the big sale, with up to 85% on its Amazon storefront. Its deepest discount is exclusive to a bundle deal, which pairs the highly-rated Blink Outdoor 4 camera and Sync Module 2 with a free Blink Video Doorbell for just AU$35. The camera on its own is discounted to AU$31, which is an all-time low price for the camera itself, making the bundle deal with the freebie doorbell even more attractive!

If this bundle doesn't quite tickle your fancy, there's a full list of deals on Blink's Amazon storefront that will cover all your home security needs. Do keep in mind that Blink's cameras come with a 30-day free trial to its subscription plan, which includes features like cloud footage backup and person detection. After the trial period, Blink's plans start from AU$4.95p/m for a basic subscription.

You'll need to act fast to nab this discount, though — Blink's bundle deal will wrap up by the end of Prime Week on Monday, July 13.

Despite falling in the budget category, Blink's cameras offer some incredible features for a low cost, such as 1080p HD live view, infrared night vision and two-way audio, and come with an accompanying free Blink app so users can monitor their homes when they're away. If you're an Alexa fan, you can also sync up Blink cameras to the app, making it all the easier to control your smart home from your phone.

The biggest standout in our 4-star Blink Outdoor 4 review was that the camera's battery life can last for up to two years with just two AA batteries, so you don't have to worry about keeping them plugged in (or finding a spare power outlet).

Better yet, when combined with the Blink Video Doorbell, you'll have eyes (and ears) on your home when you're away. It is worth noting that Blink's doorbell is a no-frills option and offers pretty basic features, like head-to-toe live HD view, two-year battery life and real-time alerts.

Most of Blink's best features are locked behind a paywall in the form of a subscription. A Blink subscription plan allows customers to save, share and view live recordings from their Blink devices, all while being saved in unlimited cloud storage for up to 60 days. Additionally, features like person detection and "Blink Moments" — which streamline clips from multiple cameras into one video — are only accessible with a subscription, which starts at AU$5p/m for Basic and AU$15p/m for Plus.

Introducing the winners of the Tom’s Guide Smart Home Awards 2026. From robot vacuum (and pool) cleaners and air purifiers to security cameras and large home appliances, these are the gadgets, tools and accessories worth celebrating for making our homes the best they can be.

Whether it’s a smarter outdoor product to make yard maintenance easier or an appliance that automates a daily chore, these awards represent the best in smart living because they are practical, powerful, and ready to use right now.

The winners of the Tom’s Guide Smart Home Awards 2026 are the tools and devices that solve real problems, from the kitchen to the bedroom and beyond. Some help you save time without adding complexity, while others offer ingenuity that makes them stand out from the rest. Most importantly, they’re ready to fit into your daily routine right now.

Smart home

BLUETTI FridgePower Ultra-Slim Battery Backup for Refrigerators

Even in 2026, a power outage can occur at any moment, and if you do suddenly find yourself in a blackout, you’ll be infinitely glad to have the BLUETTI FridgePower in your home. This sleek and simple device is an easy-to-install battery system that keeps appliances like your fridge running via two standard AC outlets.

Thanks to the ultra-slim 75mm (2.95-inch) profile, you can place it vertically or horizontally for discreet installation behind refrigerators or anywhere within your kitchen. The system delivers 2,016Wh capacity — expandable up to 8,064Wh — paired with a low 4W idle drain to maximize efficiency during extended outages.

The system features a 10ms UPS switchover for near-instant protection of perishables and medicine. What we love so much about the BLUETTI FridgePower is how it solves a single, simple problem very well with the minimum of fuss.

Lockin Veno Solar smart lock

Smart locks can be power-hungry additions to your home, but the Lockin Veno Solar smart lock rewrites the script somewhat with an integrated solar panel. This means it can harvest ambient light even in heavily shaded entryways and eliminate the hassle of battery swaps and recharges. .

Beyond its eco-friendly aspirations, the Veno Solar can unlock your door using either your palm, face recognition, a pin code, or a traditional manual key. We also like the fact that it's Matter-compatible, so it'll work with pretty much any smart home system.

Best of all, this lock costs less than $200, making it not only functional, but affordable, too.

Zafro Auro Dual Window Air Conditioner

Summer heat is no joke without an A/C unit and the Zafro Auro Dual Window Air Conditioner is both an efficient and feature-rich way of cooling down your house. It’s a cinch to install as well as doubling up as a heat pump in the wintertime.

Instead of a traditional window air conditioner design that hangs the heavy compressor and condenser outside the window frame and risks falling during the installation or afterwards, Zafro’s Auro AC is balanced on the windowsill, in an inverted U-shape.

This design keeps the unit’s center of gravity firmly on the sill with less chance of it falling. You can power it via its remote control, its app or just with your voice thanks to Alexa and Google Home integration.

Tapo C675D Kit

TP-Link’s latest home security camera, the Tapo C675D Kit, includes not one but two 4K cameras in a single housing. One lens is stationary while the other can rotate a full 360 degrees. There's also a spotlight, a microSD card slot for local storage, and local AI for basic object detection, all of which are powered by the included solar panel. The C675D includes a 10,000 mAh battery that should last up to three months on a charge

This kit checks nearly every box of what you could want in a modern outdoor security system. It boasts 4K video, two independent cameras in a single housing, local AI combined with local storage, bright spotlights and night vision.

Video quality is superb, the lights are bright, and the motion detection range will make sure nothing gets past it undetected.

Dreame Aero Ultra Steam

Cleaning up after pets or kids usually requires an entire closet full of vacuums, mops, and chemical sprays. The Dreame Aero Ultra Steam solves that chaos by combining everything into one incredibly powerful machine.

We’ve seen plenty of wet-dry vacs, but Dreame takes it to a new level by blasting stuck-on grime with 200°C steam and 90°C hot water mopping, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals. It also packs a massive 30kPa of suction power and TangleCut 2.0 tech to prevent annoying hair wraps, while a front-facing foam spray neutralizes pet odors at the source.

What impresses us most is the smart sensor array, which automatically adjusts suction based on the mess it detects, alongside an ultra-slim lie-flat design that easily slides under low furniture. Add in an epic 80-minute cordless runtime and a self-cleaning base, and your chore list just got a lot shorter. The Dreame Aero Ultra Steam is set to launch on July 15, 2026.

Eufy Omni S2

Eufy's latest flagship robot vacuum passes the smell test — literally. Not only is it a strong cleaner, but it can also make your house smell better in the process. That's because the Omni S2 has a built-in aromatherapy system, which diffuses pleasant scents as it cleans via a cartridge that lasts up to 120 hours. It left our house smelling fresh and pleasant.

The Omni S2 proved to be a capable cleaner in our tests, thanks to 30,000 pa of suction power, and its mopping system also kept our hardwood floors shiny. Its 3D vision system, which can detect over 200 objects, successfully avoided obstacles, too.

After a built-in scent diffuser, who nose what will come next?

Home appliances

GoveeLife Smart Nugget Ice Maker Pro

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want unlimited ice (without the long wait) in your household, GoveeLife's portable Smart Nugget Ice Maker Pro is a great option. What’s more, this countertop ice maker can be remotely controlled via the app — even when away from home.

The machine can produce up to 60 pounds of nugget ice per day — enough to get the party started and keep it going well into the night. It also features a dual water tank system that can hold up to 15.6 pounds of ice in a single session, which caters to around 60 drinks (impressive). It also comes with a handy app and voice activation, which is smart enough to notify you and stop making ice once the basket is full or out of water.

Beyond its high-quality performance, this gadget operates whisper-quietly and boasts impressive energy efficiency — making it perfect for frequent daily use and the ideal summer gadget.

Hisense TopLift Smart Dehumidifier

Having one of the top dehumidifiers is essential if you want to instantly reduce moisture in the air — but one major gripe is emptying (and carrying it without spillage) the collected water in the tank. This is why the smart Hisense TopLift stands out by solving a common problem with its more ergonomic design.

Designed with an internal pump, it quickly extracts collected water upward into an 18-pint top-mounted cartridge, which can be easily removed and carried around the home fuss-free. This eliminates the typical mess and heavy lifting associated with traditional tanks.

This is convenient, especially since it can remove up to 50-pints of moisture a day with a coverage of 4,500 sq ft — making it ideal for any room. Additionally, we know the perils of having a noisy dehumidifier, but the Hisense top-lift comes in at a low 46 dB, which is quiet enough to watch your favorite Netflix show in peace.

What’s more, connect via Hisense's ConnectLife app to monitor real-time humidity levels, adjust settings and schedules, and receive alerts from anywhere. It's also fully Matter-certified and compatible with Apple HomeKit, Google Home and Alexa.

Cosori Iconic Stainless Steel 6.5-Quart Smart Air Fryer

The Cosori Iconic is one of our favorite air fryers right now, mainly for its quick results at cooking up tasty treats, ease of use, and eye-catching design.

Alongside its impressive power, it comes with six cooking modes, five fan speeds, and temperature settings ranging from 90 degrees to 450 degrees. It also has a decent capacity of 6.5 quarts (serves 3-5 people), which is ideal for a family. Perhaps its winning feature is the stainless steel exterior and tempered top glass, which gives it that premium look. Plus, all the touch-sensitive controls live beneath that glass.

You can also control the Iconic using Cosori’s VeSync app, which is very easy to use. For instance, you can send the cooking time, temperature, and settings straight to the unit and monitor cooking progress from your phone.

LG Signature Smart Induction Slide-In Range

Whether you’re a pro cook, enjoy cooking up feasts, or run a large family, you’ll want the best range that can do it all. And if you want to monitor how well your food is cooking in real-time, without leaving your seat, this smart LG Signature Induction range is impressive.

Built with an AI Gourmet camera inside, it allows you to take pictures of your tasty treats that you can even show off to your family or friends via the app. What’s more, the app provides a host of recipes that are tailored to your specific ingredients at home to help you decide what to cook for dinner.

Besides its impressive tech, the range comes with a ceramic induction cooktop for faster and more responsive heating, and its Dynamic ProBake Convection, which allows for evenly cooked and tasty food. It also comes with an air fry, sous vide and pizza mode — to suit everyone’s tastes.

Plus, with its sleek 6.8-inch LCD color touch display and premium Flex Control knobs, it certainly looks the part and will bring premium style to any kitchen.

Blueair CoolDrift Air Circulator Fan

Typically, powerful fans are noisy, especially when cranked up during a heatwave. But this Blueair CoolDrift circulator fan offers an ‘ultra-quiet’ operation, designed to help you sleep peacefully.

Despite its compact size, the CoolDrift does exactly what it says — its powerful whole-room circulation can quickly cool down a space and maintain a consistent temperature. This is thanks to its wide horizontal and vertical oscillation, which reduces hot and cold spots.

It also features a smart Night Mode with auto-dimming that adjusts to the temperature over an 8-hour cycle to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night. This is also ideal for a home office or even a nursery room where comfort is key. Plus, we like that you can customize your settings and schedules through the handy app, anywhere in the home — to tailor to everyone’s needs.

Home Office

LiberNovo Omni

Spending time at your desk feels more like taking control of a starfighter when you're sitting on the LiberNovo Omni, thanks to its sleek, sci-fi styling and extremely comfy cushioning. While other chairs have adjustable lumbar depth mechanisms, the Omni’s is motorized and will change position with just the press of the button inside the left armrest. What’s more, it leans back to a full 160 degrees.

But what makes this truly stand out is the OmniStretch feature that uses the motorized actuator to slowly lift and lower your spine repeatedly for five minutes. It helps relieve tension and straightens things just like you’d expect from a trip to the chiropractor.

Secretlab MAGNUS Pro

The Secretlab Magnus Pro may be a gamer-focused piece of furniture, but even if you’ve not picked up a controller since high school, you should be consider this for your office. It’s got a sturdy steel build with an integrated power supply column and full-length cable management tray.

What’s more, there’s a robust set of accessories available to help you get even more from this desk, including a bespoke mat that protects the entirety of the Magnus Pro’s surface. You can also pick up a magnetic cable anchors to keep loose wires in position. Whether or not you’re a gamer, this is one of the best electric standing desks you can get.

Simple Furniture Height Adjustable Desk

As you might have guessed from the name, the Simple Furniture Height Adjustable Desk is all about nailing the basics and not charging you a premium for it. This electric sit-stand desk marries minimalist aesthetics with solid durability with a scratch-resistant, UV-stable Thermally Fused Laminate top. It won’t be defeated by an early morning coffee spill.

The intuitive LED handset features four programmable memory presets that make switching postures effortless and you’ve also got integrated cable management and a 5-year warranty. If it’s a clutter-free powerhouse built for lasting productivity.

Satechi ChargeView 140W Desktop Charger

Considering the myriad of devices we always need to keep charged up these days, every home office needs an integrated charging solution and they don’t come much sleeker than the Satechi ChargeView 140W Desktop Charger.

You can position it either horizontally or vertically to fit with your desk setup and the live per-port digital LCD display shows real-time power distribution across all four of its USB-C ports. Powered by advanced GaN technology and supporting USB PD 3.2 AVS for the fastest iPhone charging, it’s an efficient, clutter-free solution built to keep your entire workspace fully charged.

UPLIFT V3 Standing Desk

The Uplift V3 is a further refinement of what made its predecessor such a great standing desk. The assembly is more straightforward and the cable management tray is wider and even more adjustable. This desk’s real value also lies in its ecosystem You have the option to start with the base model first and upgrade it later on piece by piece (like adding different power grommets), turning it into a truly long-term investment.

If you're looking for a smooth, stable, and highly customizable standing desk you can use reliably for years to come, look no further. Its ability to grow and change with your setup makes it a true long-term investment and a worthy prize winner this year.

Garden and Outdoor

Yarbo Y Series

What we love about the Yarbo Y Series is that it combines lawn mowing with clearing leaves and snow, making it our first snow-removing robot. This all-season robot lawn mower is designed for large yards and challenging terrain. In fact, it can operate on slopes up to a 70% grade.

The gearbox-free design also reduces mechanical noise, lowering operating sound from ≤75 dB to ≤60 dB, making the Y Series better suited for early-morning or late-night yard care without disturbing the neighborhood.

Yarbo's latest offering has also undergone a core upgrade and now features a dual-hub-motor drive system, improving mobility, torque, speed and acoustic performance. What’s more, its maximum travel speed has increased, enabling faster, smoother operation across larger sites.

Aiper Scuba V3 Ultra pool cleaner

Aiper’s Scuba V3 Ultra lets you get the most out of your swimming pool without getting your hands dirty. What we love is that it’s an all-in-one system with six functions that covers your pool's maintenance.

Designed with homeowners in mind, it cleans the floor, walls, waterline, surface and shallow sun shelves, while dispensing chlorine to keep it hygienic without manual intervention. Using cognitive AI and a dual-camera system alongside ultrasonic sensors it can identify over 20 types of debris, and use learned behavior, weather patterns, and pool conditions to optimize when and how it cleans.

It delivers up to 8,500 GPH suction and a multi-layer MicroMesh system that filters particles down to 3 microns without clogging. It also employs BioClaw robotic arms to guide floating debris, such as leaves and insects, into the intake, and WaveLine™ technology to ensure the waterline is scrubbed clean. Battery life stands at up to 4 hours of floor cleaning and 8 hours for surface cleaning.

Induction Hardware 36" Outdoor Built-In Induction Griddle

Induction Hardware has introduced the first outdoor induction griddle, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of precision cooking outdoors. It delivers the performance chefs expect from induction, while eliminating the fire hazards of cooking with a traditional gas griddle outside.

Apart from looking sleek, the 36” grill features a removable carbon-steel griddle that unlocks four oversized square induction coils, while offering single-zone, dual-zone, and bridge functions for even, full-surface heating.

We’re impressed by its functionality and by the fact that, once the griddle is removed, it reveals a full induction cooktop. It’s not designed for your everyday budget BBQ, but we’re impressed with how it could take center stage in a modern outdoor kitchen and deliver anything from seared steaks to hearty pasta.

Thermacell LIV 2.0 On-Demand Mosquito+ Repellent System

The LIV is a mosquito-repellent system that emits a vapor mosquitoes hate, and it’s controlled by a Smart Hub that communicates with up to 10 satellite-based repellers. It works by creating a large, scent-free zone of protection against mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and biting midges, covering up to 3,000 sq ft.

The user can activate, schedule and monitor the system through app control, while it’s also compatible with voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Home. It’s not a cheap setup and will need to be installed, but the technology provides on-demand protection season after season, offering a smart outdoor living solution for pest control.

Birdfy Feeder Metal 2 4K

If you love watching birds in your yard, the Birdfy Feeder Metal 2 4K AI-powered smart bird feeder is designed to bring them within range without disturbing them. The sharp camera brings the birds to life, capturing their fine details and subtle movements often missed by the naked eye. What’s more, the AI tech identifies each species and offers you real-time alerts through the app. It’s a real plus for those not quite sure of the feathered creatures that come to visit and want to track all visits without being present.

We’re impressed by how the bird feeder invites nature into your backyard and wildlife into your home. And during testing, we appreciated its durability, the multiple ways it can be installed, and how easy it is to fill.

Bedroom and sleep

Amerisleep AS3

The popular Amerisleep AS3 is available as either a hybrid or all-foam mattress and is a great option for both side sleepers and light-average weight back sleepers, too. The Bio-Pur memory foam molded to the body better than you might expect and offers good support at the same time.

The edge support and motion isolation on this mattress are also excellent. If you share your bed with a restless partner or are a light sleeper, you're unlikely to be disturbed by the AS3 as the Bio-Pur foam absorbs motion successfully. It also does a great job of temperature regulation throughout the year.

Blueair Mini Restful Sunrise Alarm Clock Air Purifier

BlueAir’s Mini Restful Sunrise Clock Air Purifier can lay claim to being your ultimate bedside companion by marrying air filtration with routine-enabling sleep tech. It comes in a soothing Coastal Beige colorway and boats a compact footprint that won't clutter your nightstand.

We especially love how it reinvents the morning routine by eschewing jarring alarms for customizable sunrise lighting and gentle sounds to wake you naturally. All while Blueair’s signature HEPASilent filtration works away under the hood to clears 99.97% of dust, dander, and allergens from a 140-square-foot room in just 12.5 minutes.

You can manage the Mini Restful Sunrise Clock Air Purifier through a companion app for custom schedules to personalize this all-in-one sleep sanctuary.

ComfortNext Lux

If you’re looking to level up your mattress game, then the ComfortNext Lux is the way to do it. This is one of five new smart mattresses from Sleep Number and promises better pressure relief, cooling and support. There are 100 different firmness levels controlled by the internal air chamber that you can select from the accompanying app.

The thick top layer of foam makes this a soft mattress but, providing you have an adjustable base, you can enjoy a range of motion from the bed’s top and bottom sections. And finally, you’ll get personalized sleep insights delivered to your phone every morning. This is the future of sleep.

RENPHO x Headspace Eyeris Zen Eye Massager

The RENPHO x Headspace Eyeris Zen Eye Massager is a calming way to shut the world out and get a few moments of valuable relaxation time. Wrapped in an exclusive soft-matte purple finish, its feather-light build won’t weigh you down while you unwind. We especially love its phone-free approach to relaxation: right out of the box, it comes pre-loaded with nine guided Headspace meditations targeting sleep, anxiety, and daily mindfulness, allowing you to completely disconnect from digital noise.

Under the hood, the newly engineered ZenTech motor operates at a near-silent 40 dB, ensuring your tranquility remains entirely undisturbed. It delivers highly customizable comfort, offering three dynamic compression modes and three soothing heat levels to melt away screen fatigue and temple tension.

I've been having trouble with my tomatoes. As part of my grow-it-yourself mission this year, I planted a variety of vegetables in spring that I was hoping I'd be harvesting by now for some delicious summer salads. Unfortunately, my garden has had other plans. Despite taking top tips from an Italian farmer and I've even adopting a 3-step pruning system, I'm still always on the lookout for more ways to help my tomatoes grow.

And I've recently stumbled upon a cheap and potentially genius gardening hack that could be my answer to high-yield and hopefully ripe tomatoes. It turns out all I need is to keep the simple kitchen scrap that I've been throwing away for years – fish scraps.

Here's what happened when I gave it a try.

How does it work?

TikTok creator, @selfsufficientme (also known as Mark Valencia) shares his gardening tips to over 230k followers and it's one of his most popular videos of all time with 3 million views and counting that I found particularly interesting – using fish scraps for great tomatoes.

In the video above, Mark carries out an experiment where he buries fish scraps in the soil alongside his tomato plants and then plants a section with no fish scraps to see the difference as they grow. For this, he used two fish heads and no other fertilizer for one and nothing at all for the other. He then pruned and watered the plants the same to see how they'd fare.

While he noticed that the no fish heads tomato plant was growing better to begin with, as well as having the first ripe tomatoes, it quickly changed. He says once they both produced tomatoes: "It was noticeable that the fish head tomatoes were also producing more fruit. After the five to six month mark in October, there was a considerable difference beginning to show between the two plants.

"The ones with the fish head were still growing strong with much better fruit and foliage growth than the ones without the fish head which were pale, dying back and had practically stopped producing new tomatoes."

The fish works as a fertilizer around the tomato plants roots and as it decomposes, it releases nutrients like phosphorus and potassium that the tomato plant can thrive on. While I thought it was strange that I'd never heard of it before, I figured it was time for me to give it a go.

Here's what happened when I tried it

Admittedly, when I first saw Mark's video, I thought it was kind of gross. I don't tend to cut up whole raw fish regularly, but I do from time to time. Since I was planning on firing up my grill this summer, I figured it would be a good time to give it a go.

While I'd usually just opt to throw the fish scraps away quickly, this time I held on to them.

Yes, I was tempted to buy the fish emulsion fertilizer straight from the shops; I also knew from Mark's video that it would be better to try this out with fresh fish to hopefully get the best results (and that it would also be a lot cheaper). So, I chopped up some bits of fish and buried them down into the soil where I was planting my tomato plants.

For now, I'm not at the stage where I can pass a judgment on how well my tomato plants are doing because it'll take some time. But, I can happily say that it was relatively fuss-free and I can now truly feel like I'm not wasting anything when buying a whole fish as I'm utilizing every single part of it. Plus, the grilled fish in itself was an extra treat.

So, it didn't cost me any additional cash to try it out and I'm pretty hopeful that from Mark's results, I'll be able to yield some lovely ripe tomatoes in a two to three months time. I'm just hoping they don't taste like fish when I get round to eating them...

More from Tom's Guide

• This cheap garden hack will help your roses grow — and all you need is a few old tea bags
• I've just discovered this strange hack that'll keep pests away from your plants — and it uses a popular cold medicine
• This garden hack will help your plants thrive — and all you need to do is boil some eggs