The oil sizzled as I placed the scallops in the pan. On the counter next to me sat a tray of just-baked chocolate chip cookies, their aroma wafting through the air. In the oven, a tray of chicken thighs was slowly baking atop a mixture of Chinese vegetables, their juices infusing with the cabbage and boy choy beneath.

I was cooking it all on the Copper Charlie, an innovative induction stove that doesn’t require any special installation, thanks to a massive battery. And while it's an early adopter in the world of early adopters, it could represent the future of home appliances.

Renovation is the mother of necessity

I tested out the range in the Brooklyn apartment of Ted Booth, who switched from a traditional gas oven to the Copper about a year ago. At the time, his building was facing a million-dollar renovation bill to upgrade the ancient gas pipes leading into, and threading through, the entire 33-unit building.

Rather than forcing the entire building to front the cost of fixing each unit’s gas line, the condo board gave each owner an option to switch to an induction stove. However, most induction stoves require a 220-volt electric line — which would have meant an equally expensive bill.

But there was an alternative: the Copper induction stove. This range has a large battery in the bottom, where the warming tray would sit. Not only does this provide a steady source of energy, even when the power goes out, but it also allows the stove to use a regular 110-volt outlet, so you can plug it in almost anywhere.

“To me, it was an opportunity to get off gas,” Booth said. “And, you can call me a bit of an early adopter, so it appealed to me that way.”

Modern but retro

While the Charlie uses a very new type of technology, and has Wi-Fi and can be updated over the internet, it’s surprisingly low on connected features.

“I like how simple it is,” Booth said. “It's connected to the Wi-Fi, it has a battery, but it's the most analog experience I've had with a tech product. You have the little light indicator on the side, and the screen shows you what it's doing — it's 350 degrees. That's all you need to know. It's great. 
And then the two little switches for the light and convection.”

The cost of upgrading

The Copper Charlie isn’t cheap. The base model, with black plastic knobs, costs $6,000, while the model with black walnut knobs is $6,300. That’s more than twice as expensive as some popular models from LG and GE — though it should be noted the GE Cafe series can get up to $5,000.

The Charlie is not Energy Star-certified, so you can’t get any government rebates from that program, but there are several other local clean energy tax credits that can help ease the cost.

However, it did get the seal of approval from the New York City Housing Authority, which is installing 100 Copper Charlie stoves in apartments throughout the city as a pilot program for lower-income residents, as all city-owned apartment buildings get converted from gas to electric.

“There are so many families that haven't had the ability to cook for years because they had their utility to get the gas shut off,” said Lisa Pickney, a professional chef who created the Official Dessert of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, served on the Obama White House culinary team, and now works for Copper.

“And so they just gave them a hot plate and a rice cooker and a teapot.
And it's just not right. They can't make a Thanksgiving turkey. So that kind of broke my heart. And now they'll be able to have Thanksgiving and do proper cooking now.”

The Copper Charlie isn’t the only induction stove of its kind; a rival company, the Electra Induction Stove, works in much the same way. Rather than the lithium ion batteries you might find in your phone or electric scooter, these stoves use a lithium phosphate battery, which is more stable, and more suited for how it’s used with the stoves.

Now we're cooking

As I (well, mostly Lisa) were cooking, I was impressed with how fast the oven heated up. While I didn’t time it, the Copper Charlie seemed far shorter than my oven at home. Similarly, its cooktop element warmed up the pan in no time, and put a sear on the scallops as good as I’ve ever done on any range, gas or electric.

Booth said that his cooking game has improved since getting the Charlie. “I like to make a Spanish potato omelet,” he said. “I like it because you can get a really nice, low temperature, so it doesn't brown too quickly. With the gas, I could get a low flame, but then the heat doesn't distribute quite as well, and so it's like cooking more in one spot and less on the edges.”

Booth said he could no longer do the Mark Bittman trick of cooking a steak by placing a pan on the very bottom of the oven, but the Charlie proved its worth when the outlet behind the stove stopped working.

“At first, I was like, what are we gonna do?” he said. “It's gonna take a while to get an electrician to come, and then I was like, oh, no, wait, it's fine. We have an outlet behind that cluster of little appliances in the corner is a four-prong outlet with a GFCI. So I just plugged it into that.”

“That to me really proved to me how much power this draws, because we've got an Instapot, we've got a kettle, we've got an espresso machine. 
And we never had an issue, it never popped the GFCI.”

How it's working out

Ultimately, eleven owners in Booth’s building ended up getting a Copper Charlie. It proved to be more expensive than those who merely opted to replace their gas line, but Booth said it was worth the expense.

“We're gonna spend all this money for these pipes in the wall, and all I get is to get a blue flame?” he asks. ”I want something better than that.”

More from Tom's Guide

• I used an induction cooktop for the first time — here are 3 things I learned
• 5 mistakes I made when I switched to an induction cooktop
• We tested 3 portable induction cooktops from $50 to $1,500

If you've been watching the news, you may have seen the Trump administration's recent robotic ban. In a move by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the ban targets any new foreign-made humanoid robot imports to the U.S. The thinking is that these products may cause "unacceptable risks" to U.S. security.

But humanoid robots aren't the only robots at risk. It turns out the ban spreads much further than you might think. Far enough to spell trouble for the kind of 'bots you may be using in your own home.

Delve a little deeper into the FCC's definition, and you're looking at a much larger coverage of robots that fall under the term "advanced robotic devices".

If they're "capable of locomotion, obstacle avoidance, navigation, or movement on the ground" then they're targeted under the new ban. Sounds a lot like robotic lawnmowers, the best robot vacuums or even your friendly neighborhood delivery robot, right? Exactly.

No more Roombas?

Now, it's worth delving into exactly what this means for home and delivery robots that fall under the FCC's definition.

Importantly, any existing robots previously authorised to be sold in the U.S. are safe. Equally, any robots that have already been imported from outside of the U.S., are currently being sold, or have been approved are also safe.

But any new "advanced robotic devices" being imported, which essentially means any robots being manufactured outside of the U.S., are banned.

This includes robots where "the combined weight of the device and, if applicable, ground station or docking station is over 4.4 lbs", as well as any with "software running either locally or remotely, including firmware and AI or machine-learning model weights" and "a sensor capable of perceiving its environment" or "a component that is capable of providing network connectivity (wired or wireless, including Bluetooth/Wi-Fi, cellular, or satellite)".

Why? Well, as the FCC has said, they consider these robots to pose a national security risk, stating: "foreign-produced advanced robotic devices could be weaponized to directly harm U.S. national security and U.S. persons".

But what's really interesting is what it's demanding companies do instead.

Safety concerns?

A lot of companies like Roomba, Ecovacs, Dreame, Roborock and more source manufacturing from China. Moving forward, they'll need to acquire waivers to continue to manufacture and sell these advanced robotic devices in the US. But, The Verge revealed the FCC doesn't want to ask any questions about actual security.

Instead, the site reports: "The FCC only wants to know where they're designed and made and assembled and tested and influenced, and get a specific commitment to start manufacturing them in the U.S. instead."

So, for now, existing robots in the U.S. are safe. You won't have to hand over your much-loved robot vacuum to security. But it's a huge deal for the companies making them. Any new models will need a waiver to be manufactured elsewhere, and if they can't get the waiver, then they won't be getting sold in the U.S.

If you were on the fence about picking up one of the best robot vacuums or a robotic lawnmower, you might want to act sooner rather than later.

CTA responds

The Consumer Technology Association, the organization behind CES, also issued a measured response on X in a series of posts.

"At CES 2026, robotics took center stage. Innovation in this space is accelerating fast, and the U.S. must lead the world in developing and deploying these technologies."

"CTA supports efforts to protect our national security and strengthen technology supply chains. But those policies should be targeted, transparent and focused on genuine security risks, not unnecessary costs or supply chain disruption."

"The global race in robotics is on. CTA looks forward to working with the Administration to ensure America leads the world in robotics and the next generation of emerging technologies."

"We encourage continued engagement between industry and government to ensure policies advance trusted supply chains while preserving innovation, competition and consumer access to new technologies."

Companies respond

We reached out to a number of companies following the FCC's announcement. Here's what they had to say.

Anker Innovations

"We are aware of the FCC’s recent update. Based on our current understanding, the new rule does not affect the continued availability, use or support of products we currently sell in the United States. Those products remain available and will continue to receive updates and customer support.

"Like others across the industry, we are seeking further clarity on how the rule will be applied to future products, and we will keep our customers informed. We remain committed to complying with all regulatory requirements in every market where we operate."

Dreame

"We are currently reviewing and assessing the details of the recent announcement," a spokesperson said. "Dreame has always been committed to strict compliance with all local laws and regulatory requirements in every market where we operate globally."

iRobot (makers of Roomba)

"We are aware of the FCC's recent action and are working with them to better understand its implementation and potential impact. We remain committed to serving our customers and will share updates as more information becomes available."

Segway Navimow

"We are aware of the FCC’s announcement regarding restrictions to advanced robotic devices. There is no immediate impact to existing Navimow customers, as all Navimow models currently sold in the US have already received FCC equipment authorization. The ban does not affect the sales, service, or continued use of existing products. We are closely monitoring policy developments and evaluating compliance pathways for future products, including the Department of Defense's "Conditional Approval" process."

What do you think of the ban? Let us know in the comments.

More from Tom's Guide

• Here’s the one robot vacuum I wish was coming to the US (and what to buy instead)
• The 4 best cheap robot vacuums you can buy in 2026
• I’m a robot vacuum expert, and after seeing this vacuum that can climb over obstacles, it’s the only feature I care about

Whether I'm planning a redesign or I've got a new room that needs fully furnishing, I always tend to shop in the same place – IKEA.

The blue and yellow allure and modular designs have continuously and cleverly been sold to me as the most budget-friendly option for an entire collection of furniture. But, is that actually the case?

Don't get me wrong, I know there's other options. In fact, the market has largely been dominated for decades by two juggernaut home retailers – Lowe's and Home Depot.

How do they hold up against IKEA though? I sometimes struggle to find clarity in which is the more affordable choice.

So, I thought I'd put it to the ultimate test. I mocked up a complete bedroom design and found similar items across IKEA, Lowes and Home Depot to compare the prices.

Spoiler alert: you might be shocked by the results.

Different stores, different lures

Pros and cons of IKEA

Pros:

• Competitively priced
• Unique, space-friendly designs
• Lots of stock
• Ease of collection

Cons:

• Build-it-yourself flat packs
• Potentially expensive shipping costs
• Less than 100 stores in the US

Pros and cons of Lowe's

Pros:

• Price match guarantee
• Stock diverse and exclusive range of brands
• Over 1700 stores across US

Cons:

• Less stock
• Strict discounts
• Less choice

Pros and cons of Home Depot

Pros:

• Extensive range of brands
• Lots of stock
• Over 2000 stores in the US

Cons:

• Concerns over delivery
• Not as affordable
• Warehouses overwhelmingly large

Cost comparison

To carry out this cost comparison, I set out to find items from each store that looked incredibly similar. Of course, if you're planning a different aesthetic, you can shop around and compare all three.

But to fully furnish a bedroom with a bed, wardrobe, dresser, and nightstand, here's what the costs had to say.

It's also important to note that there can be additional costs when purchasing online, especially with delivery (varies dependent on location), but also including some potential extra costs for fittings, removal and storage fees.

Verdict

So, it turns out while IKEA is still the most affordable during this price comparison, it's not by as far as I would have thought.

For Lowe's, it's less than a $40 difference. Home Depot is considered widely to be the more premium priced of the three, but still only came in around $60 more than Lowe's.

What was surprising about Home Depot though, was that three of the items chosen were the same product as Lowe's, yet more expensive.

I did also notice that some of Lowe's and Home Depot's prices changed a little during my comparison, whereas IKEA tends to stick to their prices (unless during a sales event).

Yes, IKEA is still the most affordable, but there are other things to consider, like delivery costs to you and accessibility to stores. It wasn't the total washout that I was expecting from IKEA, especially as far as Lowe's is concerned.

I know that when I make up a mood board for my next redesign, I'll be creating the look across all three retailers rather than assuming that I know the answer.

More from Tom's Guide

• IKEA's new collection is designed for frequent movers — I'm excited about how portable and affordable it is
• 5 ways to update your bedroom without a complete revamp
• How to create a show home aesthetic — 7 interior tips to try

At the start of the year, I upgraded our household blender from a regular non-brand contraption we picked up at the local Aldi to a Nutribullet Ultra 1200. The benefits were that it was easier to clean, looked a lot nicer, and blends your ingredients straight into the shaker you can drink from.

Over six months later, I decided to return to the pair of them (we haven't got rid of the old one; it's good to have a spare) to put a little bit more testing on the table.

Part of this, I admit, is due to selfishly wanting to mix up my smoothie game. I'm guilty of going back to the same old recipe time and time again and, with summer here, I'm feeling the need for a change.

Secondly, although I swapped to the Nutribullet without a second thought — was I giving my old blender its due? What if I fed both machines the exact same ingredients and measured them directly in a head-to-head? Which would really come out on top?

There are a ton of things the Nutribullet does better: it's objectively smaller, lighter, simpler to use and comes with a better warranty. But I was surprised at a couple of outcomes from this experiment if I'm being totally honest. I'll spoil the big one for you now: I couldn't tell the difference when it came to tasting the final product.

But we're getting ahead of ourselves. Read on to discover just what I found out from my budget vs. premium experiment.

The recipe

The wonderful thing about smoothies is they're uncomplicated. Pick stuff you like, throw it inside one of the best blenders, and chances are it'll come out alright. But this test had to be scientific, so here are the exact ingredients I used with both machines:

100g strawberries (~1 cup, yields a thick texture and rich color)

50g ripe banana (~1/2 medium banana, sliced)

100g strawberry flavored Greek yogurt (~½ cup)

180ml milk (~¾ cup)

1 tbsp of honey

Note that both of these machines are blenders and not bespoke juicers. Here's a complete rundown of the differences, but in a nutshell, juicers squeeze and extract the juice from fruits and vegetables. A juicer breaks down the fruit by separating the pulp, peel/skin, and seeds from the fruit, as the juice flows out through a sieve.

Blenders, on the other hand, pulverize all of the ingredients together. Think of them as a sledgehammer rather than a scalpel.

The blend

Forget just throwing the above ingredients into the pot without a care. This is the process I followed with both blenders — just to make sure I did what I could to make the experiment fair.

• Add liquids and soft ingredients first: Pour in the milk and spoon in the Greek yogurt. Placing liquid at the bottom helps the blender blades turn smoothly without getting stuck on the fruit.
• Layer in solids and the fruit: Next in went the banana slices, chopped strawberries, and finally I added the honey.
• Blend on high power for 30 seconds (I used my trusty Casio stopwatch to make sure they each got the same time)
• Pour out and enjoy

The result

I appreciate you can't taste the results of my experiment through the screen, but as I said at the outset. I didn't notice any difference in taste in the final product. If pressed, I would say the $129 result was a fractionally smoother than the cheaper alternative. Maybe my smoothie chops aren't what they used to be, but my takeaway is that if all you're interested in is the consistency and the taste of the final result, the cheap option will do you proud.

Also despite costing more and supposedly being quieter (Nutribullet says 87dB), the more expensive blender was louder than the budget one. It's more powerful 1,200W vs 600W and that showed when the noise level just crested 100dB for the Nutribullet compared to 99dB for the Blaupunkt. I know this is nitpicking, but I still wanted to mention it.

The Nutribullet uses a 6-point titanium-coated extractor blade rather than a 4-point one in the $30 Blaupunkt. But it's also got a lower capacity (32oz vs 52oz), so if you're mixing smoothies for a family or to batch, that may play a factor. Those two elements come in clutch because there were definitely some lumps left in the bottom of the jug on the cheaper blender when I poured out the drink.

Whereas I put the contents into a glass for the sake of this article, normally I would just cap off the Nutribullet shaker and be on my way. Similarly, I cranked the Blaupunkt all the way to five on its antiquated knob rather than the simple on/off capacitive touch of the Nutribullet.

And, last but by no means least, cleaning the Nutribullet was a simpler, quicker affair than my old budget blender.

So, both got the job done — one just did it with a little more style than the other.

Final thoughts

This little experiment has reinforced what I felt about leveling up blenders back at the start of the year. When it comes to the nuts and bolts of the taste of the final product, there's no difference — at least for someone with my unrefined palate.

Moreover, I can put up with a bit of noise for 30 seconds, so the fact my Nutribullet was louder than advertised is also something I can overlook.

But, all the other aspects of using a blender were far superior with the more expensive model. I like that: a) it takes up less countertop space, b) it doesn't take as long to clean, c) it comes with a dedicated shaker for less fuss c) it genuinely just looks cooler and d) if it breaks, I can claim on the warranty for longer.

Are those advantages worth $100 more? For my current lifestyle: yes. If you'd have asked me years ago when I was a student watching every dime I spent, then probably no.

The lesson I learned here was that despite our constant fixation on the end result, there's more to choosing a product than what it delivers. Less destination, more journey.

Of course, what works for me might not work for you. I happen to value how easy and quick the Nutribullet is to use so that makes the extra $100 worth it. Do you agree or not? Let me know in the comments below.

More from Tom's Guide

• Masticating vs centrifugal juicer: Which is best?
• This is the best blender in the world, and two trusty, cheaper alternatives
• Juicer vs Blender: What's the difference?

Whenever I tell people my husband is a plumber, they usually say: "That must be so handy!" And I always agree, yes, it absolutely is.

Whenever there's a plumbing (or heating) problem in my house, he knows how to solve it, and we don't have to spend extra money doing it or calling an emergency plumber late at night.

But instead of gatekeeping his secrets, I thought I'd ask him to share three of his favorite expert-approved tips that he thinks will help anyone in their home, so you can avoid making common plumbing mistakes.

Trust me, I should know if they work, because I literally use all three of them whenever needed. Here's some expert advice (free of charge) that'll hopefully even save you money in the future.

Just be sure to stick around for all three; I've saved my favorite until last.

1. Don't pour hot oil down your sink

Excess oil that you've been cooking with seems like a pretty reasonable thing to pour down your sink when you've finished with it. After all, it's greasy, runny, and edible. But don't do it.

As my plumber husband explains: "While hot oil is liquid when it's been heated up, once it cools down it sets hard. If you have an incorrect fall on your waste pipe, this oil can sit stationary inside it, leading to blockages.

"The best solution is to pour your hot oil into a foil-lined bowl, leave it to set, and then throw the foil directly into the trash once it has [congealed]."

2. Don't put bleach tablets in toilet tanks

Bleach tablets are my go-to for tackling limescale and germs in my toilets at home, but my husband always tells me that I shouldn't use them regularly and I certainly shouldn't be putting them into the tank of the toilet.

The thought hadn't crossed my mind, but he says it's quite a common mistake that people tend to make: "A bleach tablet has high concentrations of chlorine. This can cause internal parts of the [tank] to fail, leading to leaks and damage to your toilet's components."

So, while you think you may be cleaning your toilet thoroughly, you could actually be doing more harm than good, which can become quite a costly mistake. Just stick to popping them into the bowl.

3. Draw a pencil line around damp spots

Now, this one's my favorite, and it's one of those hacks you wonder why you didn't think of it yourself.

Whenever you spot a damp patch or stain in your home, here's what my plumber husband recommends: "I advise customers that if they notice a mark on their ceiling (most commonly), they should trace the outline with a pencil."

Why? Well, he adds: "If you leave it for 12 hours and come back, you'll see if the leak has gone past the pencil line. If it has, then you know you have an active leak."

And since a pencil is harmless to your ceiling, you can leave it a little longer to be extra sure or rub it away when you're fully satisfied that the leak has stopped.

Do you have any tips for saving money when it comes to plumbing? Let us know in the comments.

More from Tom's Guide

• This TikTok hack claims vinegar will clean your shower head — I asked my plumber husband if it actually works
• You asked: Can dish soap fix your clogged drain? A plumber explains the facts
• Households urged not to pour boiling water down drains this winter — I asked a plumber what to do instead

I've always found growing tomatoes tricky. Every year, I make a new attempt, but the results are inconsistent. One year, I'll get a few worthy of a salad, the next it'll be a total fail.

And as I sat out in my yard recently, I stared at this year's yield – tomato plants that had stopped growing entirely. So, I did what I love to do and headed online to social media to see if I could find an answer.

Fortunately, tomato growing hacks are never hard to find, from using this common kitchen scrap for zero-waste gardening to trying out an ingenious tomato-watering trick, but this time I was looking for something that would switch up my tomato growing game altogether.

Then, I found a TikTok that told me I've actually been doing it all wrong. It turns out we should all be planting our tomato plants horizontally. It might sound crazy, but it's actually a stroke of genius. Here's how it works.

How does it work?

I'm a sucker for TikTok creator, @creative_explained's videos and I'm not the only one. With over 7.5m followers, he's known for consistently sharing quick home and garden hacks with an enthusiasm that's infectious. I should know; I've been using his money-saving hack for giving my plants a boost this year, and I've been shocked by the results.

But it's this tomato planting hack that caught my attention this time. As he demonstrates, you take a tomato plant and strip all the leaves off the stalk, leaving just the top shoot with one leaf.

Then, you dig a trench in your garden bed. After exposing the roots of your tomato plant and breaking apart the soil at the base, lay the entire plant horizontally into the trench.

Bury the entire stalk with soil, leaving just the top shoot and leaf exposed. Raise just this part and hold it vertically with soil.

He explains: "What's going to happen now underneath the soil is that the tomato will grow roots all along its stem.

It'll start to grow new shoots. The stem pretty much transforms into an entire root system." Genius.

Here's what happened when I tried it

I fear I may have found this hack a little late for the tomato growing season, but with hot weather in my area, I figured I could still transplant outside with a totally new tomato plant to hand.

Planting it horizontally was simple enough, even if it did feel like a strange process. I've had success with @creative_explained's hacks before like using potato peel water in my soil, so I'm looking forward to seeing the results. In terms of process, it was easy to do, though I needed to find a space in my garden bed that was long enough to accommodate.

Fortunately, I recently dug up some old rhubarb that was suffering in the heat, so I had the space to try out this horizontal planting trick. Now, I just need to wait until fall to see the results, but it feels good to try out something entirely new for a change. Growing tomatoes is a tricky business, but this might well be the solution I've been desperately searching for.

More from Tom's Guide

• This cheap garden hack will help your roses grow — and all you need is a few old tea bags
• Stop wasting money on tomato feed — here’s how I made my own free fertilizer
• The 3 kitchen scraps I never throw away if I want sweet, ripe tomatoes

Monsteras are usually the drama-free roommates of the houseplant world, until the morning you walk past yours and spot an undeniably yellow leaf.

Trust me, I know that sudden flash of panic. But after years of keeping these tropical giants happy, I’ve learned a yellow leaf isn't an instant death sentence. It’s just your plant’s version of a check-engine light.

Whether you're dealing with a simple watering mistake or a tricky lighting spot, I’ll help you translate what your Monstera is begging for and get it thriving again.

Frequently asked questions

Should I cut off yellow monstera leaves?

Yes, you should prune them. Once a Monstera leaf has turned fully yellow, it cannot regain its green color because the chlorophyll has broken down. Use sterilized shears to cut the yellow leaf stem near the base so the plant stops wasting valuable energy trying to sustain damaged tissue.

How long does it take for a monstera to recover?

Once you fix the underlying issue, such as adjusting your watering schedule or moving the pot to better lighting, you should expect to see fresh, healthy green growth within two to four weeks during the growing season.

More from Tom's Guide

• Monstera leaves curling? Here's what your plant is trying to tell you
• This tiny pest causes the biggest damage to your plants — here's how to stop thrips
• Houseplants taking over? Here's how to repot a monstera

Seeing vibrant yellow blossoms drop off your tomato plants without ever setting fruit is easily one of the most frustrating parts of gardening. You’re watering correctly, feeding them on schedule, and the plants look healthy, so why aren't you getting any actual tomatoes?

The issue usually isn't your soil or your fertilizer routine at all. It comes down to a simple, hidden bottleneck inside the flowers themselves that stops fruit from forming. Luckily, there’s a 2-second technique that fixes the problem almost instantly, and all it takes is a quick touch of your fingertips.

Why tomato tapping actually works

In nature, tomatoes rely on bumblebees for buzz pollination, a process where bees vibrate their wings to release heavy, trapped pollen locked inside the flower. When pollinators are scarce or plants are grown in sheltered spots like greenhouses, those flowers drop off unfertilized.

Tapping your plants simply mimics a bee's wing vibrations to break that pollen free and force the plant to set fruit. Timing is everything: tap your plants mid-morning, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when morning dew has dried and pollen is light and dusty.

The process takes seconds, whether you lightly flick the stem behind an open blossom with your index finger or give the plant's wooden stake or metal cage a firm tap to send vibrations down the vine. Repeat your chosen method every two to three days while plants are actively blooming.

What to expect (and how to prepare for a bumper crop)

Within two to three weeks of consistent tapping, instead of bare stems and fallen petals, you'll see full, symmetrical clusters of green fruit swelling all at once.

Because your vines will be carrying significantly more weight than usual, proactive crop management is crucial to keep the plant healthy. Be sure to upgrade your support early by securing main stems to stakes with soft garden twine before branches start to sag.

Heavy beefsteak or cherry clusters can easily snap under their own weight, so cradle large fruit trusses with extra ties fastened directly to the main support. And make sure your stakes or cages are driven deep into the soil so top-heavy plants don't tip over.

More from Tom's Guide

• When to fertilize tomatoes: the 3-step schedule for a bountiful harvest
• Why are my tomato plant leaves turning yellow? 5 steps to save your harvest
• Gardeners swear by this simple tomato plant trick — here's how to save split tomatoes fast

If you’ve ever watched your tomato plants struggle to transition from green, stubborn globes to juicy, vibrant red fruits, you aren’t alone. Getting tomatoes to perfectly ripen requires the right balance of nutrients, soil structure, and plant vitality.

Thankfully, you don't need store-bought supplements to give them a boost. The secret to a bumper crop of sweet, perfectly ripe tomatoes is sitting right in your kitchen garbage.

By strategically using crushed eggshells, banana peels, and coffee grounds, you can deliver a targeted nutrient cocktail that fuels fruit development and speeds up the ripening process.

More from Tom's Guide

• When to fertilize tomatoes: the 3-step schedule for a bountiful harvest
• Why are my tomato plant leaves turning yellow? 5 steps to save your harvest
• Gardeners swear by this simple tomato plant trick — here's how to save split tomatoes fast

There is nothing better than a warm summer evening spent relaxing in the garden. You've got the patio lights on, a cold drink in hand, and the perfect setup to unwind... until the buzzing starts.

Within minutes, a relaxing night outdoors turns into a frantic battle against mosquitoes. But before you douse yourself in sticky chemical sprays, look up at your patio lights. You might inadvertently be throwing an open-house party for every biting bug in the neighborhood.

To find out why our backyards are suddenly crawling with pests, I spoke to Jon Saeed, managing director of outdoor lighting specialist Lighting Legends.

According to Saeed, the warm summer evenings we love also bring along more mosquitoes who thrive in humid environments. But the real culprit behind your itchy ankles might actually be your choice of lightbulb.

Fortunately, you don't have to sit in the pitch black. Here are the simple mistakes you might be making right now, and how to fix them to reclaim your garden this summer.

More from Tom's Guide

• How to mosquito-proof yourself this summer — 7 simple tips
• Banish mosquitoes from your home with one natural ingredient — and it also smells great
• How to stop a flying ant invasion using a single item from your spice rack

There's no denying it, we're having a heatwave heavy summer in the U.K. But, while we're all struggling to keep cool, there's something else we need to worry about in this heat — our fridges.

I do my weekly online shop at Tesco, but I recently noticed I wasn't able to get some items because the fridges weren't working. And I'm sure I'm not the only one that's noticed the melting chocolate bars on the shelves. So, if the supermarkets aren't coping, how are our fridges going to keep up at home?

Well, if you've got an older fridge, it might be bad news. According to Dr Alan Foster, a refrigeration expert who spoke with the BBC, a lot of appliances were: "designed decades ago in a much cooler world."

Most were manufactured to cope with temperatures of up to 32C, and with temperatures rising, they're struggling to function. Some owners may even find their fridges stop working entirely.

If the current weather has got you considering a replacement fridge, here are the three things you should consider, according to an expert.

3 things to consider when buying a new fridge

Buying a new fridge can be a pretty overwhelming purchase. There are so many to choose from and what works for your household might not work for someone else's. Fortunately, we spoke to Ilaria Castagnoli, Product Trainer at SMEG USA to find out her top tips for buying a replacement.

1. Check the energy efficiency

Unsurprisingly, if you're buying a replacement because your fridge can't handle the heat, you'll want to prioritise whether a newer model is Energy Star rated. Castagnoli says: "These units will be the most energy efficient options on the market, not only decreasing your energy use but also helping you save on your utility bill in the long run."

2. Look at different configurations

A fridge isn't one-size-fits-all and if you're combining it with a freezer, you've really got to think about what works for you and the other people in your household. "It's also important to think about the type of food you buy and the layout of the unit that will be easiest for you to manage on a daily basis," Castagnoli advises.

This means taking into consideration whether a bottom or top freezer works best for you, whether you'd prefer a side-by-side unit for easier access, or as Castagnoli also recommends: "Families who like to include ice in every beverage, or access filtered water regularly, should opt for a side-by-side or bottom freezer French door configuration." It all comes down to personal preference and needs.

3. Prioritise features for food freshness

If you're replacing an older fridge, chances are it hasn't got the features that are available on today's market, which are abundant especially when it comes to food freshness.

Castagnoli recommends: "Crisper drawers that offer independent temperature and humidity controls are an important consideration because fruits and vegetables often require higher humidity than the main cavity of the refrigerator provides, and different types of produce require different levels of humidity."

Additional features Castagnoli suggests looking out aside from food freshness include LCD lighting, adjustable shelving, and even whether a model offers a holiday mode.

More from Tom's Guide

• Fridge struggling in the heat? Homeowners urged to make one change to stop food from spoiling
• Beat the heat: How to stop your fridge from overheating this summer
• People are putting a piece of paper in their fridge to see if their home is heatwave-ready — and it makes more sense than you think

From smarter tracking to habit observing, the notion of the best robot vacuum that can fit into your daily life is certainly an appealing one, and the Narwal Flow 2 promises a lot.

It offers "unlimited object recognition" alongside smart obstacle avoidance, and even throws in strong suction power and mop functionality with it. But, to get all those nifty little features, Narwal is asking for a lot of cash for its smart robot vacuum, so it has to outperform its cheaper competition.

I've now spent a few weeks with the Flow 2 making its way around my house (not consecutively, the battery isn't quite that good), and I can say I'm both a little impressed with it and yet paradoxically, underwhelmed. Like the AI you'll find on your phone every day, it is pretty clever, and clearly has the infrastructure to back it up, but I'm not fully convinced it's better than the traditional methods.

It's a little unproven in its features and too expensive to get the stamp of approval from me, even though I quite like it. Here's how my time with the Narwal Flow 2 went.

Narwal Flow 2 robot vacuum review: Price and availability

The standard Narwal Flow 2 is priced $1499.99 on Amazon.

What's more, there’s a smaller version with an autofill and drainage system that you connect to the water in your house that fetches $1599.99 on Amazon.

Narwal Flow 2 robot vacuum review: Setup

The Narwal Flow 2 is very easy to set up, even though it’s quite bulky and relatively heavy. Simply take the robot vacuum out of the box, plug the base in, take the extra bits that are stored in the base out, and get it on charge.

It does come with detergent in the box, so you can pop that in the base for the mop mode. From here, get the app downloaded and let the Flow 2 map your apartment. It managed to pretty much nail the mapping of my apartment on the first go, navigating around chairs, doors, and even human beings.

From the app, you can tell the Flow 2 to go around, with either the vacuum or mop function, and you can watch it go from room to room, monitoring its progress as it goes. The benefit of this is that you can catch any spots it missed or any locations that have been blocked off by items. The base station holds debris for up to 120 days and has a self-cleaning water tank.

Set up is pretty smart in a lot of ways. Once you've sent the mop around, the base station will dry it with internal heating to prevent any mould. It's relatively low maintenance, outside of keeping the detergent bin topped up.

Narwal Flow 2 robot vacuum review: Design

The Narwal Flow 2 has a lot going for it. The AI functionality helps it spot debris and map the home, but it's also used in voice controls, which means you rarely have to control it from the app if you don't want to. That AI functionality also makes the Flow 2 swap between a loud or light vacuum depending on the surface and the level of cleaning each surface needs.

Oddly, you can entirely control the robot vacuum from your phone, using its built-in webcam. This is a decent way of keeping track of the home while you're away, and its speakers mean you can actually talk to people through it. This mostly ended in me chatting to my partner from afar, but I can see some practical uses here, like chatting to pets, or even just checking if you've left the oven on.

It has a pet mode for finding your pets, and you can cycle through vacuum power intensities, should you feel a more thorough clean is needed. It's very neat, though very niche.

The Flow 2 sells itself on being effortless, and this is partially done in how it deals with waste, but also in some smart software. It has systems to reduce battery wear over time (which is certainly welcome with the 1-2 hours of battery life), and it can technically recognise an infinite number of obstacles, which is an infinite amount higher than the 200 the Flow can pick up.

Narwal Flow 2 robot vacuum review: Performance

This is the most important part of using a robot vacuum, and, unfortunately, performance is pretty mixed for me when considering the price.

In our testing suite, it entirely failed to pick up many Cheerios scattered around a confined space. It would regularly push them around the floor or crush them under its wheels. A few of them got stuck behind the wheels, and I’m not entirely convinced I’ve got them all out even now.

This means similarly sized debris simply won’t be picked up by the Flow 2. It’s not entirely uncommon that you would drop a piece of cereal while moving with a bowl or any other food, and the Flow 2 is more likely to squish it into the floor than pick it up.

I'm not entirely sure if this is a physical problem in how it picks up debris between its brush or with the AI tracking failing to register that it needs to give extra juice to the engine at the right point, but my money is on the latter.

When it comes to picking up hair, it does decently. On a low-pile carpet, it needs to go over the same patch multiple times to pick it up, and it won’t necessarily do so naturally, which means having to send it around again. I have managed to get it to pick up everything in a single go, but there's no magic touch here. Sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn't

On tile or otherwise flat floor, its 31,000 PA suction power is more than enough to get up any dirt that gets into its path. If you’re thinking of getting a Flow 2 for a very tile-heavy apartment, it will likely perform to your expectations, and its mop mode is solid too.

It's intuitive and looks after itself. I did find it a little better at getting specific stains than just generally mopping an area, though, which I think is partly what the vacuum is going for in the first place.

Kitty litter was picked up absolutely fine in a single go, and with no issues. For everyday dirt, the Flow 2 does just fine.

Using it week to week, the Flow 2 certainly cuts down on the amount of manual vacuuming I have to do, but it’s also significantly more expensive than equally viable performers, even at its discount price.

I also found the mapping system to be good, but it struggled occasionally with finding its own base. When I moved it ever so slightly, the Flow 2 vacuum struggled to make adjustments to find its new home (just inches across).

One place the Flow 2 really does struggle is with corners and edges. The robot vacuum is pretty big and doesn't have edge-to-edge coverage, so you will likely have to go over these yourself. This is a tad disappointing for such a smart vacuum, though not entirely unheard of.

Narwal Flow 2 robot vacuum review: Verdict

I really like the Narwal Flow 2 - in concept. It is definitely smart, and it has tonnes of niche little features I think are just plain neat.

However, when you're approaching north of $1,000, neat doesn't quite cut it, especially when it struggles with some of the fundamentals.

As an additive tool to my regular hand vacuuming, the Flow 2 certainly fits in a good spot, and I didn't find my flooring to be very dirty after a few weeks of using it, but there are cheaper options that get similar results.

The Flow 2 is certainly a bit better than budget robot vacuums I've tried, but is it three times better? No, not nearly. That doesn't mean it doesn't do its job; it's just not offering a price-to-dollar ratio that is as smart or efficient as its software.

Peace lilies are forgiving houseplants until they're not. They tolerate neglect, bounce back from underwater watering, and look elegant in corners where other plants struggle.

But they have one non-negotiable requirement: regular feeding. Without it, those glossy green leaves start losing their shine, blooms become sparse, and your plant quietly declines into a sad, pale version of itself.

Get the timing and amount right, and your peace lily rewards you with vibrant foliage and those signature white flower spathes appearing constantly. Here's how to feed your plant so it actually thrives.

More from Tom's Guide

• Where to put a peace lily so it actually flowers — 5 ideal spots in your home
• Peace lily outgrowing its pot? Here's when and how to repot it
• Your peace lily needs dividing if you see these signs — here's how to do it

Over the years, I've found myself returning to IKEA any time I'm kitting out a new place, doing a home refresh, or looking to upgrade on some home essentials. Not only does it offer affordable furnishings, but they're also fun to make (if you like building flat-pack, like me). But, how about if you could also pack them back up when it's time to move?

IKEA's newest collection is specially designed with movers in mind. KOMPISHÄNG is an 11-piece collection for "a growing generation of young city dwellers and college students who move often and settle in quickly."

I used to move a lot and I had a tendency to just leave the furniture behind, rolling my two suitcases away unencumbered. IKEA's new collection aims to eliminate the need to start over, crafting items that are both portable and multifunctional. It launches online on August 15, but you can also find it exclusively in stores from July 13 to August 14. Here's a sneak peek at what's on offer.

For life in transit

IKEA's no stranger to curating collections with a purpose. Its SOLUPPGÅNG range is geared towards those who love exploring the great outdoors. Its DOFTRIPS collection is for those who love to grow and nurture plants. And now, the KOMPISHÄNG collection is designed for those who tend to move around, whether for work, travel, study, or another life purpose.

IKEA's newest collection wants to make sure you can pick up pieces for your residence that are still purposeful without breaking the budget. And more importantly, they're pieces that travel incredibly well when it's time to go again.

Made from solid pine, powder-coated steel and durable canvas, this entire range has been designed to be packed, carried and set up again in a new location with ease. But, it'll still look as good when you finally move it into a home you want to stay in. You just won't have had such a hard time getting it there.

And IKEA has done its research. Spending time with young adults aged 20-28 in London, it wanted to find out patterns and needs for its newest collection. As Dora Ding, Product Developer at IKEA explains: "Even if you move often, you don't want your home to feel temporary. We saw how carefully people chose the things they carried with them from place to place, and that insight shaped the collection. We want the collection to be portable but still have a permanent look, people should feel settled and [their space] considered."

Curated for convenience

So, what is included in the 11-piece collection? Well, it's composed of a solid pine desk, stools that fit together like a puzzle, a hanging wardrobe organizer, solid pine mirror frames, a shopping bag on wheels, side table, door hangers (one pine, one canvas), a triangular back cushion, jute plant pot and red metal bookend.

Each of the 11 pieces has been designed with portability in mind. The solid pine desk, available for $99.99, is one of the pieces I'm most excited about. Not only does it require no tools or assembly time to set up, just two pulls and two clicks, but it even has a built-in handle under the tabletop making it incredibly easy to move around.

The hanging wardrobe organizer is another interesting design, converting from wardrobe to carry bag with a single zip that can be worn on your back. That means you can leave your clothes inside, zip it up and move to the next place without the stress of packing and unpacking.

And the side table can easily turn into a shoulder table in seconds, folding completely flat and making it easy to fit anywhere. As David Wahl, Designer at IKEA explains: "This table isn't just a temporary solution. It's designed to accompany life's transitions – equally at home in a first apartment, a family house, or even a retirement space."

I'm already thinking about what I'll pop in my basket when the KOMPISHÄNG collection launches. I just wish it had existed when I was still living the nomad life.

More from Tom's Guide

• IKEA's new wireless charger looks like a donut and costs $9, but it's surprisingly capable
• I just upgraded my home with these 5 IKEA items
• How to paint your IKEA furniture for a flawless finish — decorating experts share their top tips

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

More from Tom's Guide

• 7 common lawn care mistakes you’re probably making right now
• 9 ways to get the most out of your lawn mower
• 5 plants that will keep wasps out of your yard

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

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

Summer is in full swing — and whether you're heading out for a picnic, a roadtrip or a beach vacation, you'll likely need a hand in keeping your snacks and drinks perfectly cool. That's why now is the perfect time to invest in one of the best coolers.

Even better? A few of our favorites are up to 35% off on Amazon. If you're not sure where to begin, I've done the heavy lifting for you and compiled the best of the best cooler deals below. They come courtesy of top brands like Ninja, Igloo, Coleman, YETI and more.

Keep scrolling to see all the cooler deals I recommend! You can also check out our Amazon promo codes page.

Quick Links

• shop cooler deals at Amazon
• Coleman Classic Playmate Coolers: was $33 now $20
• Igloo Marine Cooler 25qt: was $41 now $34
• Coleman Classic Series Cooler 70qt: was $84 now $74
• Stanley All Day Madeleine Backpack Soft Cooler: was $170 now $124
• Yeti Hopper M15 Portable Soft Cooler: was $300 now $199
• Ninja FrostVault 30QT: was $279 now $229

The Best Cooler Deals

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

More from Tom's Guide

• This is the reason why your lawn mower grass cuttings are clumping — and the simple fix to solve it
• How to use coffee grounds as lawn fertilizer — 5 tips for a lush lawn
• The secret to a lush green lawn is this $3 bathroom item — and you might already own it

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

More from Tom's Guide

• Why do I have yellow patches in my lawn? Gardening experts share their top tips on how to fix it
• How to dethatch a lawn
• 5 easy tips to fix bare patches on your lawn this spring

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?

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

Summer heat poses a real threat to backyard hummingbirds. Because of their fast metabolisms, these tiny birds lose moisture rapidly when temperatures spike, and high heat can quickly cause your hummingbird nectar to ferment and spoil.

Unlike other species, hummingbirds cannot rely on shade alone to survive extreme weather, making cooling strategies absolutely essential.

If you want to know how to protect hummingbirds from summer heat, the solution is easier than you think. By making just three simple adjustments to your feeders and water features, you can easily transform your outdoor space into a safe, refreshing refuge while creating the ultimate hummingbird hangout.

These quick, low-effort changes will keep your local hummingbirds safe, hydrated, and fed all season long.

More from Tom's Guide

• Want more hummingbirds? 7 tips for attracting them to your yard
• This simple nectar recipe will attract hummingbirds to your yard — an expert reveals all
• Want more songbirds visiting? 7 changes that bring them to your yard

It's the final day of Amazon's big sales event, which means you only have a few hours left to take advantage of the Prime Day deals. We've got a fantastic one for you here, though, centered on one of the most iconic and coveted homeware brands in the business: Le Creuset.

This prestige brand has been making world-class pans, skillets, and dishes for more than 100 years. Le Creuset is famous for its tough and stylish cast iron cookware in a range of beautiful colors that add a touch of class to any kitchen.

Now, these are undeniably quite pricey pieces, but you're buying quality that, with proper care, will last a lifetime. And with Prime Day now on, this is a perfect opportunity to make some massive savings.

We're tracking all the best Prime Day home appliance deals

Summer is here, and we’re not the only ones who are feeling parched in the heat. If you take pride in your lush and green grass, it can be disheartening when you notice yellow patches suddenly appearing that quickly ruin the overall look.

This is especially the case if you’re hosting those backyard barbecues or gatherings. So if you’ve been watering and maintaining your yard, you’re probably wondering why you have yellow patches in your lawn.

We’ve called on the gardening and lawn care experts at hand to share their top tips on how to get rid of those discolored spots on your lawn and what causes them in the first place. So, read on if you want to revive and bring your lawn back to life this summer.

What causes the yellow patches in my lawn?

Essentially, a yellowing lawn is common when the weather switches from heavy rain to a sudden dry spell. Scientifically, this yellowing is known as chlorosis.

Particularly, when grass undergoes stress, the green chlorophyll breaks down, and this process exposes the underlying yellow carotenoid pigments that are typically concealed during healthier periods.

According to experts, there are various causes for your lackluster lawn. One obvious reason could be not watering your lawn adequately during hot spells, which can dry out the soil. Ideally, you should water deeply and infrequently, as this helps the roots grow stronger and penetrate deeper into the soil.

“If you notice yellow patches in your lawn, it might be a sign that you are overwatering or underwatering your grass,” said Allison Koenig, a lawn and garden expert at Tractor Supply.

Basically, if your grass looks dry, turns brown, or has a crispy texture to it, you're likely under-watering, and your grass is parched. But if the grass is constantly soggy, has yellowing patches, or shows signs of mold or fungus, it’s a clear sign of overwatering, and you should reduce the amount of water your lawn is getting.

“The best way to tell what your lawn needs is through a quick soil check," Koenig said. "If it feels compacted and doesn’t absorb water well, you may be overwatering, while a dry, hard soil signals that your lawn needs more moisture.”

Another reason could be diseases or pests, in particular chaffer grubs and leatherjackets that are known to feed directly on the grass roots, literally sucking out the water and essential nutrients it needs to thrive.

“As they feed directly on the roots of the grass, they sever your lawn’s connection to its water and nutrient supply,” adds Angelika Zaber, Lawn Care Specialist and Gardening Expert working for Online Turf.

“In terms of diseases, Fusarium is a common culprit since it often shows up as small, yellow, circular patches. To treat it, reduce the amount of thatch and loosen the soil by scarifying and aerating your lawn. Additionally, avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. Instead, use a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen but high in potassium.”

Furthermore, for those with furry companions, discolored spots frequently stem from animal waste. “Pet urine can also cause those yellow or brown spots on your lawn because of the high nitrogen levels, which essentially burn the grass,” explained Koenig.

“To prevent these spots, one effective approach is to immediately water the area where your pet has urinated," Koenig said. "This dilutes the nitrogen and prevents it from "burning" the grass, preventing the brown spots from appearing. You can also try training your pet to use a designated area of the yard, such as a gravel or mulch patch, where the urine won’t harm your lawn.”

How do I fix any yellow patches?

First, it’s advisable to start with a soil test to help you determine the pH levels and what nutrients it’s deficient in.

"This will help you determine the pH levels of the soil as well as if it has adequate nutrients and organic matter present," said Theresa Smith, the SVP at NaturaLawn of America.

“If the soil test results show signs of the soil having adequate nutrient content, then you know the yellowing or browning of the grass is being caused by an environmental factor or is under physical stress”.

So, once you have established the cause for your discolored grass, how do you fix your unsightly patches? "The best way to fix this is by overseeding,” advises Zaber.

“Overseeding is a practice of spreading grass seed onto an already existing lawn to thicken it and give it that healthy, green appearance. Start by mowing, then scarifying and aerating the soil.

“Then, spread the seed at a rate of 25 grams per square meter and add a light layer of topsoil on top. This will improve the seed-to-soil contact, which is critical for good germination rates, and also protect the seeds from being eaten by birds or blown away by wind.”

Bear in mind that you may need a period of two to four weeks for initial growth, though achieving a fully restored, and lush lawn can take up to six months.“Grass usually takes around 2-4 weeks to germinate, depending on the weather. However, to fully establish, it can take up to 6 months,” added Zaber.

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

More from Tom's Guide

• 7 common lawn care mistakes you’re probably making right now
• 9 ways to get the most out of your lawn mower
• 5 plants that will keep wasps out of your yard

I don't need to tell you how uncomfortable it is to be stuck in a room with temperatures climbing past 30°C / 86°F and no air conditioning. We're only a couple of weeks into summer but Europe (where I am) is in the grip of a heatwave with temperatures hitting over 40°C / 104°F this week.

Things are no different in the United States. According to data shared by the National Weather Service’s (NWS) Climate Prediction Center (CPC), more than half of the country should brace for temperatures topping 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the coming days. And that's not even taking into account the humidity.

Naturally, the response is to crank up the A/C to stay cool. But if you don't already have one of the best smart air conditioners at home, it can be expensive and time-consuming to get one installed. The solution is to pick up a portable unit right now in the Amazon Prime Day sales. Not only can you save some cash, but chances are you can have it delivered and ready to go before the heatwave really hits.

I've scoured Amazon and found a few options worth considering if you've finally decided that the personal fan you bought weeks ago just ain't cutting it.

US portable A/C deals

UK portable A/C deals

Unfortunately, finding deals on portable AC units in the U.K. is proving tough right now. Given the current state of the country — with a severe heat warning in place — many units are selling out fast.

While I haven't been able to find any specific deals worth your time, here are some units I've found that are still in stock. Although there's no telling how long they'll be available for so you'll need to be quick.

What to know before buying

The main thing you want to look at before buying a portable air conditioner is the BTU rating. That stands for British Thermal Unit and indicates the cooling capacity. In effect, how much heat it can get rid of in a room over the course of one hour.

The higher the number, the more powerful the cooling. Anything that's rated 5,000 BTUs and above will be more than sufficient to cool a small-to-medium room. The only trade-off you need to be aware of is noise levels, particularly if you plan to run the air con while you sleep. Anything over 65 decibels is likely to become a disturbance during the night.

We're tracking all the best Prime Day deals

It's always the season for a sweet treat, especially with the sun threatening to boil us all alive this summer. For all my ice cream lovers out there, the Ninja Creami is a must-have. Not only has this viral ice cream maker become a cult favorite for making mouth-watering shakes, smoothies, and more, but it's also one of the most fun kitchen essentials out there. And If you've been waiting for a good deal, the Prime Day sales going on this week make now the perfect time to splurge.

Right now, the Ninja Creami is just $169 at Amazon — the lowest ever price we've seen on this ice cream maker. But you'd better act fast, because we've seen stock sell out before on Black Friday. And that was when it was $10 more. For even more savings, check out our favorite kitchen appliances on sale this Prime Day. You can score up to 50% off brands that rarely go on sale like Keurig and KitchenAid to build your dream kitchen set-up. Just be sure to invite me if ice cream's on the menu.

Why we love the Ninja Creami

The Ninja Creami tops the list of the best home ice cream makers we've ever tested, and it's easy to see why. In our 4-star Ninja Creami review, its versatility seriously impressed us, and its intuitive design made it easy to whip up everything from rich gelato and refreshing sorbet to creamy milkshakes that put McDonalds to shame.

While you'll need to freeze your base for 24 hours before churning, which can be a pain, the Creami makes the rest of the process super simple. It also includes two pint containers, so it's easy to prep multiple flavors in advance.

What’s more, if you have dietary requirements, the Creami has several settings designed to fit different needs like Keto, vegan, and even fruitarians! Where it really shines, though, is with mix-ins and powders. Protein powder, instant coffee, matcha, chai latte powder, and the like blended smoothly into our recipes without the chalky texture that often plagues other blenders and ice cream makers.

If you've been thinking about adding a Ninja Creami to your kitchen, now is a great time to take advantage of a deal and start experimenting with homemade frozen treats. For more inspo, follow these 3 tips for perfect results every time.

Ninja has got quite the hold on the air fryer world, dominating the space (and our best air fryers guide) with the Pro 4-in-1 and Foodi DualZone. When the Ninja Crispi air fryer was released in 2025, it even prompted our expert tester to say, "It made me rethink everything I knew about air fryers."

The Ninja Crispi is a glass air fryer that cooks everything from pasta to green beans and a whole lot in between. It reinvents the traditional air fryer whilst looking incredibly smart and almost futuristic for an everyday kitchen appliance. So, how can you possibly evolve the Ninja Crispi even further?

Well, Ninja has just launched the Ninja Crispi DualZone – the first glass air fryer to cook in two independent zones. You're telling me I can cook my salmon at the same time as my vegetables, and they'll both be cooked to perfection, ready to be plated at the same time? This is the feature I've been desperately hoping for!

Meet the Ninja Crispi DualZone

The Ninja Crispi DualZone isn't the brand's first evolution of the Crispi; the Crispi Pro launched earlier this year. But, it is the first time it's used its patented DualZone technology on the innovative glass air fryer.

And it's the two independent cooking zones that are the real shining star of the new Crispi. Each zone is made up of a CleanCrisp glassware container that is designed for non-toxic cooking and speedy storage, but there's more technology at play here that's worth talking about.

Smart Finish, for example, is Ninja's answer to no-stress mealtimes. With this technology, the Ninja Crispi DualZone intelligently syncs both zones to finish at the same time. Pair this up with Match Cook that mirrors what settings you've got running across your zones, and you can use it for double-batch cooking, too.

No longer will you have to cook your food back-to-back with the Crispi or bring in other kitchen appliances to make sure your meal comes together at once – and for me, that sounds like the dream. And if you're keen to cook up using different functions, there are six customizable options onboard with Air Fry, Bake, Dehydrate, Max, Crisp, Roast and Recrisp all available,

Why I can't wait to try it

I've loved the look of the Ninja Crispi since it launched, but I've already got the Ninja Foodi DualZone that allows me to cook on two sides at the same time. It's hard to compete with that until now. I finally feel like I could replace the Foodi with the Crispi, but there's more to it than that.

I've also recently moved over from plastic food storage containers to glass, and I've definitely noticed a difference when it comes to taste. If the same can be said for the Ninja Crispi DualZone, then I'm super intrigued. With no PFAS and PTFE, it also feels like a smart choice for chemical-free cuisine.

I'm really keen to grab a Ninja Crispi DualZone now that it's got the feature I've been desperately waiting for, and it doesn't hurt that it looks incredibly stylish, too. I'll reserve full judgment until we get it in for a full review. Now, I just need them to make a Ninja Crispi Pro DualZone, and I can fit food in for the whole family.

More from Tom's Guide

• Ninja Crispi Pro review: A meal prep marvel
• Ninja just released an air fryer so portable you can take it to the office
• 7 dangerous mistakes to avoid when cooking in an air fryer

Prime Day is almost here, but you can pick up some great deals before the big day. I’ve been searching for the best savings on small kitchen appliances, and some of my favorites are on sale.

For those who love to bake, you can snag KitchenAid’s Artisan stand mixer for $372, which is 25% off. It's an outstanding performer and the top product I recommend in our best stand mixer buying guide. If you love multi-functional appliances, take a good look at Instant Pot's Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker for just $69 — now half price.

Keep scrolling for more recommended Prime Day kitchen appliance deals! Don't forget to sign up for a Prime membership and stay tuned to our Prime Day deals live blog.

Quick Links

• shop all Prime Day deals
• Instant Pot DuoPlus 9-in-1 Multicooker: was $139 now $69
• Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker: was $189 now $99
• Ninja Slushi Frozen Drink and Slushie Machine with Rapid Chill: was $349 now $199
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer (with probe): was $299 now $199
• KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer: was $499 now $372

Prime Day Small Kitchen Appliance Deals

HOME APPLIANCES

We're tracking all the best Prime Day home appliance deals

It's not unusual for the Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select to be released in a new color. Earlier this year, the Dutch brand announced its Color of the Year with the Moccamaster in Sorbet. And there's plenty more where that came from with the Moccamaster available in a wide selection of colors all-year round.

What is a little unusual about this latest color drop is that it's launched for one reason in particular — Amazon Prime Day. Holding the overall top spot amongst the best coffee makers we've ever tested, I'm excited to see it in this new color even if the circumstances are unexpected.

So, to mark Amazon Prime Day 2026, Moccamaster has dropped this exclusive color for the annual sales event — Eucalyptus. And, for a little something extra special, it's offering a 33 per cent discount on the usual price during the sales period (23 to 26 June).

Why I'll be picking one up

While the Prime Day exclusive color is certainly alluring, it's not just the Eucalyptus hue that is swaying my decision to grab one. It's mainly down to the Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select's impressive features.

Not only did it secure a four-and-a-half star review from our testers, but it's held a spot in our coffee maker buying guide for five years now. We even recently revisited our review in 2026 to check if it was still the cream of the crop — and we ruled it most certainly is.

Handmade in the Netherlands, it boasts quality construction, dependable results and a sleek design. In fact, our reviewer Erin (who runs the Tom's Guide Coffee Lab) stated: "The Technivorm Moccamaster KGBV Select has stood the test of time, and for good reason. This is widely regarded as the best drip coffee maker ever invented. With SCA-approved functionality and a 5-year warranty (+lifetime repairs), I recommend the Moccamaster with every fiber of my coffee-addled being."

And new color releases bring a new aesthetic that may just make this machine even more appealing. Sure, Juniper and Pistachio are already available if you're looking for shades of green, but there's something about Eucalyptus that has really caught my eye.

Availability

While the Moccamaster in Eucalpytus is an exclusive launch for Prime Day — running 23 to 26 June with a 33 per cent off limited time deal — it won't be the last time you see it. In fact, I've been told that it'll return in the fall, which is great news for anyone eager for a new coffee maker but not quite ready to invest.

And despite this being an Amazon Prime Day exclusive, you can also pick it up at other retailers like Williams Sonoma and Crate & Barrel.

• 7 ways to create a barista-style coffee bar in your kitchen
• Coffee doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby — here’s my 5 favorite cheap accessories
• How to make coffee without a coffee maker — 5 easy techniques

If some of your potted plants aren’t looking so good and you think you’ve tried everything, they may be root-bound. This stealthy condition often mimics under-watering or nutrient deficiencies, leaving many well-meaning plant parents completely baffled.

It happens quietly beneath the soil line, slowly choking off the plant's lifelines until intervention becomes absolutely critical. ‘Root-bound’ simply means the plant has outgrown its container. Its roots have filled all of the space and formed a dense, tangled mass. To learn the signs of a root-bound plant and how to save it, read on.

More from Tom's Guide

• Your succulent is dying of thirst every time you mist it — do this instead
• How to revive a dying houseplant — 7 steps that actually work
• Houseplants taking over? Here's how to repot a Swiss cheese plant

Like cleaning my car, cleaning my windows seems like a chore around the house that always sets me up for failure. It doesn't seem to matter how much I scrub and buff, I constantly end up with soapy streaks staring back at me. Sometimes, I wish I'd just left my windows as they were.

While I've tried following advice on how to clean windows and leave them streak-free, at this point I'm inclined to just blame my cleaning products and give up. That's easier than blaming my own cleaning skills, right?

Instead of throwing in the towel though, I find myself constantly on the hunt for hacks that promise a streak-free solution and I'm hoping this expert hack will be the answer. Not only is it affordable, but it uses two unusual household items I already have in my home. Costing nothing to try, I thought I'd give it a go and I was surprised by the results.

How does it work?

Allan Reid, uPVC specialist and founder of Art Windows and Doors knows a lot about windows. He also advocates for a really simple cleaning technique that I'd never heard about before and it uses two items – white vinegar and newspaper.

It sounds like something you'd try out when there weren't any proper cleaning products available, rather than something you'd opt for instead of cleaning products.

But, Reid says it's worth trying: "It does sound a little strange if you've never tried it before. But it works surprisingly well. You don't get those annoying bits of fluff left behind, and it helps leave the glass looking really clear."

It's really cheap and easy to do, following these three simple steps:

• Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a bottle
• Spray it on windows
• Quickly scrub it with scrunched up newspaper

Reid adds: "Sometimes we convince ourselves we need loads of products for every little job around the house. But this is one of those simple tricks that's stuck around because it genuinely works."

With that bold statement in mind, I thought it was only fair to give it a try and see if I can finally get rid of those streaks that seem to appear as soon as I think I've done a good job.

Here's what happened when I tried it

My windows get so messy, it's almost a bit embarrassing. With two little kids around my house, there's sticky fingerprints and strange streaks that go unaccounted for. And as summer hits, the sunshine is producing a very unforgiving gleam to my windows showing up all the dust and dirt. So, I was more than happy to give this hack a try.

With my white vinegar and water solution in hand, I spritzed the solution across one of my windows just to try it out. Then, I quickly grabbed my crumpled newspaper to give it a good scrub. I was initially worried that the newspaper print would just smear all over the window, but I'm happy to report that wasn't the case.

My initial thoughts were that it looked surprisingly good. But, I needed to give it a bit of time to sit before I gave it my full verdict. As you may have witness yourself, for some reason streaks decide to show up as if by magic after they've dried. I was worried this time that they were just hiding from me. Turns out, they weren't.

When I returned 30 minutes later, my window was clean and streak-free. It didn't cost me a dollar to try out, though if you need to buy the two items, they are pretty cheap. It's definitely something I feel confident enough to try on a few more windows and maybe, finally, I can stop buying cleaning products hoping it'll solve the problem.

More from Tom's Guide

• I 'employed myself' to give my home its spring clean — and it turned out to be the perfect motivation hack
• I cleaned my house using only homemade cleaning products for a week — here's what happened
• This viral TikTok cleaning hack just revealed why your dishwasher tablet isn't working — and it makes total sense

Curling tomato leaves are your plant's way of telling you something is wrong. When you notice the foliage starting to curl, roll, or twist, it's tempting to panic. But understanding what causes tomato leaves to curl is crucial because different problems require different solutions.

Some causes resolve on their own once conditions improve. Others demand immediate action. Here are the five most common reasons your tomato plants are curling and exactly what to do about each one.

More from Tom's Guide

• Double your tomato harvest with this 3-step pruning system
• Why are my tomato plant leaves turning yellow? 5 steps to save your harvest
• Why marigolds are the best companion flower for a pest-free vegetable garden (especially tomatoes)

Panasonic has been releasing innovative kitchen appliances for decades. Evolving with the times and listening to consumer concerns, the Japanese company has just launched a microwave that comes with a feature many of us desperately want from our microwaves: even cooking.

I love heating up leftovers. "Cook once, eat thrice" is a motto I live by, but I don't love that my current microwave is pretty uneven with its spread of heat. Some parts are piping hot while others are unappealingly cold. Finally, Panasonic has an answer in the form of the Japanese Microwave.

Launching for $429.95 at Panasonic, the Japanese Microwave utilizes smart technology to revolutionize the way you cook up your food. And it also looks really nice. Here's what's packed into this modern-looking microwave.

Even cooking with smart technology

As mentioned, the Panasonic Japanese Microwave comes with a feature we've all been desperately waiting for – even cooking for your meals. To achieve this, Panasonic has loaded up its new microwave with some super smart tech that I'm pretty excited about.

The Genius Sensor 2.0 is one of the shining features that makes this possible, precisely monitoring the temperature of your food for even heating. This is paired up with some pretty clever 3D antenna technology to target your food at a whole range of angles, meaning that those cold spots you hate to find in your leftovers will be gone.

Panasonic reveals that the Genius Sensor 2.0 uses a thermo sensor positioned at 64 points in the microwave interior: "This allows the microwave to respond to different foods and temperatures as they cook, helping deliver more even results across the entire plate, all with a simple push of a button."

And using Panasonic's patented Inverter Technology, the Japanese Microwave will maintain a consistent power level rather than pulsing on and off to reduce those hot and cold spots even further.

Panasonic's one and done approach works in a number of ways from the One Push Reheat button that'll bring your food to the ideal temperature with just one press of a button.

To One Bowl Cooking where you can add all the fresh ingredients for a dish into a single bowl and the Japanese Microwave will cook them all up throughly and evenly. The options include Chili, Carbonara, and more.

Ridiculously good looking

For this microwave, Panasonic has also focused on style, adopting the design-first approach that has long been popular in Japan. And I'll be honest, I've never looked at a microwave and thought it was a pretty sleek addition to my kitchen. With the Japanese Microwave, my mind has been changed.

Not only am I impressed by its minimalistic and smart design, but I'm particularly interested in its pull-down, oven-style door to fit into tighter kitchen spaces. It's a design feature makes this microwave smoother, quieter and better looking.

You've also got a flatbed interior design that's modern and easier to clean with the Japanese Microwave. There's no traditional turntable inside. Instead, you can simply place down your dishes. This makes the interior footprint larger meaning it can accommodate larger dishes and even multiple items at once.

And, thankfully, you don't have to worry about those multiple items not getting an even cook. Panasonic's smart technology has got you covered.

More from Tom's Guide

• Best microwaves in 2026
• 5 game-changing microwave hacks you didn’t know you could do
• This ‘zero effort’ vinegar hack is great for cleaning your microwave

My plants have been looking a little weary lately. I'm tempted to blame the sunny weather, but I fear that I'm just not giving them the attention they need. So, I headed to social media to see if I could find a hack that would help me out (and not cost me a lot of money).

After lots of searching, I finally stumbled upon something I'd never heard of before – using matches to create my very own plant-boosting fertilizer. It's a staple of my messy kitchen drawer that I usually only pull out when I need to light a birthday candle. Suddenly, I'm looking at that little box of matches in a totally different light. Here's what happened when I followed the simple hack to help feed my plants.

How does it work?

YouTube creator, @creative_explained, has a page full of clever tips and tricks to use around your home that he shares with his almost 5 million subscribers (one of which is me). He taught me a clever potato peel hack to supercharge my garden that's saved me a bunch of money on fertilizer and he's even taught me how to clean a shower head with vinegar.

Sometimes, I like to head back into the archives on his page to see if there's any hacks I've missed and I was surprised by what I found. The video, featured above, reveals that you can feed your plants and give them a natural boost with just a box of matches and some water. Since I already have both those things in my home, I thought it was definitely worth a try – and it turns out it's really simple.

All you have to do is this:

• Put 5 to 10 matches into a container
• Fill the container with some water
• Wait for around an hour
• Give them a stir and use the pink water to pour onto your plants

He explains that by letting the matches soak in the water, it'll turn pink: "That's the phosphorous and sulfur being released into the water," he explains. "Pretty much what that means is that it's food for your plants! Phosphorous will help your plants grow these nice, healthy roots and sulfur will produce nice leafy greens."

But, while in the video you'll see him light the matches and let them burn, it turns out you don't want to do that – and I learned this first-hand when I tried it out.

Here's what happened when I tried it

As mentioned, I made the mistake of lighting the matches when I first gave this a try. I'd seen the flames that @creative_explained had lit on his video and hadn't quite paid full attention that it was just for show. Look a little closer and you'll find that the matches inside the water are still red-tipped and that's because he hasn't let them burn.

This is an important part of this hack because if you burn them, you're eliminating the phosphorous and sulfur that you need for the water to turn pink and nutritious for your plants. So, after a couple of failed attempts, I used the matches without letting them burn. Lesson learned.

I also thought I'd like to use a little more water than he demonstrates with to make sure I could feed the numerous plants around my home. So, I added 10 matches in one go to see if that would help infiltrate more water – and it did.

Now, I've only just started trying this new match-infused water trick on my plants, so it's hard to say whether it's making any difference yet. What I do know is that it was super simple to do, very affordable and I haven't seen any damaging effects to the plants.

So, I'm wiling to keep trying it out using my mom's 'Thirsty Thursday' routine in collaboration with the matches. Since it's so low-cost and quick, it's easy to play the long game and see if my plants get an extra boost. Either way, I feel like I'm creating potions and that's made remembering to water my plants a lot more fun, too.

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

Philips is a brand that knows a lot about having fun with smart lights. Philips Hue lights, for example, can be positioned around your home illuminating rooms in a variety of ingenious ways.

And now, Signify, the manufacturer of Philips' products, has released something new. The Philips Skylight is designed to bring the feeling of daylight right into your home.

The range aims to recreate the natural brightness, depth and rhythm of sunlight within your home. Why? Well, Signify did some research across 2,000 adults and concluded: "58% feel they spend too much time indoors, and 89% say they feel more energetic when they get enough daylight."

Bring the outdoors in

Using Signify's NatureConnect technology and BioUp technology, Skylight automatically adjusts brightness and tone throughout the day, creating a brighter blue-enriched light in the day and a warmer light at night.

Users can also take advantage of five preset scenes that are inspired by the daylight that you can adjust to fit your mood or the ambience you're after. Plus, with a surface-mounted slim ceiling profile, it'll fit in nicely with your home.

This all sounds really wonderful, but you'll have to wait until September 2026 for it to become available for purchase in the U.S. Another sticking point might be how much it costs, which for some may be a little prohibitive.

Starting at 499.99 euros — around $580 — it's a big investment. But there are some cheaper alternatives that could be worth considering, especially if you don't want to wait.

Philips Skylight alternatives (available now)

More from Tom's Guide

• I just gave my home the ultimate smart light upgrade — and I can control it all with my phone
• Philips Hue lights: A guide to what each bulb does (and costs)
• The best smart lights: tried and tested

If you have a damp problem, getting one of the best dehumidifiers is a no-brainer. These helpful devices draw moisture from your air to prevent damp and mold. Not only is that good for your walls, ceilings and paint, it’s also highly beneficial for your health.

Unfortunately, my home is rather damp, especially in winter. So I’m always running two dehumidifiers (one upstairs and one downstairs) to keep things in check. Throughout winter and spring 2026, one of those was the Pro Breeze Dehumidifier, which I had for a long-term test.

The Pro Breeze is a moderately quick dehumidifier, extracting up to 50 pints / 20 liters a day, with (according to the manufacturer) a wide coverage of up to 4,000 square feet. It’s designed for larger spaces and/or an entire floor of a house. It’s fairly compact given its capacity and has some helpful features like a status LED and a handle.

It isn’t perfect, with slow operating during stress tests, slightly confusing controls and a water tank that can be awkward to refit. But could it still be worth buying? Find out in my full ProBreeze Dehumidifier review.

Pro Breeze Dehumidifier review: Specs

Pro Breeze Dehumidifier review: Price & availability

The Pro Breeze Dehumidifier is available in the U.S. from Amazon for $239, which is essentially the going rate for a decent 50-pint dehumidifier. The GoveeLife Smart 50-pint Dehumidifier also costs $239, while the slower Waykar 34-pint Dehumidifier costs $228. The excellent Frigidaire 50-pint Dehumidifier costs slightly more at $279, but is an excellent performer — at full price, that’s where my money would go. However, we’ve seen the Pro Breeze drop as low as $138 at Amazon, and at those prices, it’s a solid choice.

In the U.K., where Pro Breeze is based, this dehumidifier is no longer available. However, Pro Breeze offers a much wider array of dehumidifiers in the British market, so there are plenty more to choose from.

Pro Breeze Dehumidifier review: Design

The Pro Breeze Dehumidifier isn’t going to win any awards for its design. It’s a white, upright slab — hardly prepossessing. In fairness, though, they all look like that. I haven’t seen a good-looking dehumidifier that uses wood or makes any effort to look stylish and homely. They all look like medical equipment that’s been stolen from a hospital.

The top panel of the dehumidifier is particularly ugly and dated-looking in my opinion. My Bosch Dry 2000 (not available in the U.S.) looks much more modern with its round display and minimalist touch controls. The Pro Breeze features LED status (red, green and blue) to quickly display humidity levels — these are handy, but again, kinda ugly and dated.

It’s a fairly tall dehumidifier, but the trade off is that it’s a fairly narrow unit, giving extra versatility with placement. That said, when in use, you should always maintain a gap between any dehumidifier and walls or furniture, so they’re always placed slightly awkwardly anyway.

I like that the Pro Breeze features a handle and wheels. This makes it super easy to move around to different parts of your home if you need to target a specific area. During winter, I noticed some mold growing in a corner of my hallway, so I quickly scooted the dehumidifier across my wood floor and positioned it very near the problem spot. The wheels aren’t quite as effective on carpet, but hey, they’re still nice to have.

The filter is removable and washable, which is great to see, although I wouldn’t advise buying any dehumidifier without this feature. They get such heavy use that replacing filters would cost you a fortune. The GoveeLife Smart Dehumidifier and Waykar Dehumidifier also have washable filters.

Controls

The Pro Breeze’s controls are clearly labelled and fairly self explanatory. There are buttons for everything you’ll need. However, I found the display a little confusing. There are various modes, many with similar icons, doing different things. There’s a fan speed setting, but also a high power setting — isn’t the high fan speed also the high power setting? There’s a laundry mode that does basically the same things as the high power mode.

After a read-through of the manual, I realized what these different modes were doing, and that there were subtle differences between them. But it was still a little frustrating, as other dehumidifiers like my Bosch Dry 2000 and the GoveeLife Smart are extremely intuitive and easy-to-use straight out of the box.

Pro Breeze Dehumidifier review: Performance

The Pro Breeze Dehumidifier will extract up to 50 pints of water from your air per day, according to the manufacturer, which is a lot of moisture. This will depend on specific circumstances, of course, which I wasn’t able to match in my testing. I needed to empty the tank at least once a day with it running constantly — so 9-18 pints of water per day.

Pro Breeze’s claims about the dehumidifier’s range are all over the place. The Amazon page for the 50-pint model claims it can cover spaces up to 4,000 square feet, which is enormous. However, the Pro Breeze site only claims 2,000 square feet, while the U.K. Pro Breeze site claims 322 square feet for the equivalent model. The U.K. model has slightly lower energy consumption, but the exact same 195 m³/h airflow rate as the U.S. model… So where is the circa 3,700 square foot difference coming from? It’s a mess.

Taking the top estimate of 4,000 square feet — that’d be equivalent to a whole storey in a very large house, or the floor of an office building. While this dehumidifier is good, I’m not sure those claims stack up to reality. In fact, as I’ll cover immediately below, I’m more inclined to believe the British rating of 322 square feet…

Testing

My kitchen — the most humid room in my house — measures around 270 square feet. To test the Pro Breeze, I cooked a pot of pasta and two slow-cook sauces on our induction cooker, without lids, and kept our extractor off to generate steam. On the maximum setting, it took the Pro Breeze several hours to take the humidity from red on the LED status to green (from nearly 80% back down closer to 60%). By comparison, our favorite dehumidifier for large spaces, the Frigidaire Dehumidifier, cleared a basement from 90% to 35% in just 40 minutes, although that was in a smaller 100 square-foot space.

In less extreme scenarios, the Pro Breeze performed admirably, though. I left it running in the default de-humidification mode, where you can set the target humidity and fan speed, and it was able to keep the moisture levels in my kitchen stable (until I cooked).

In my kitchen and in my hallway (where I had mold and condensation), the Pro Breeze did a great job. There was no window condensation in the mornings and once we cleared the mold with some spray, it didn’t return. Importantly, though, the Pro Breeze wasn’t able to dehumidify my entire downstairs — to fight the mold, I had to move the unit from the kitchen to the hallway — so again, those 4,000-square-foot claims seem pretty bogus to me.

There’s a laundry mode, which is awesome for drying clothes inside during winter. I use this regularly, and the Pro Breeze dries most clothes in a couple of hours if positioned near your dryer. Annoyingly, there’s no timer by default on laundry mode. My Bosch Dry 2000 automatically sets an 8-hour timer in laundry mode for effortless overnight drying. You have to do this manually on the Pro Breeze, otherwise laundry mode will just keep running indefinitely at max, wasting energy.

The Pro Breeze Dehumidifier gets noticeably warm in use, especially in the higher power modes. It packs out quite a bit of warm air, so you won’t want to sit next to it if you’re hot. I like that the Pro Breeze can be used as a standalone fan, though — when in fan mode, it doesn’t dehumidify but pumps out cooler air, helping to cool rooms down in warmer weather.

The water tank is fairly spacious at 9 pints / 5.1 liters, easy to empty and features a fill window to tell you when it’s full. It’s awkward to get back into place, though, often getting jammed — not a huge deal but a little annoying all the same. The Pro Breeze has an outlet for continuous draining and comes with a rubber pipe, so if you need to run it indefinitely with it draining into a bath or sink, you can — this is ideal for super damp homes needing emergency dehumidification.

Noise & night mode

The Pro Breeze is rated for 48dB of noise, although I wasn’t able to achieve anything lower than 54dB in normal mode and 52.5 in night mode. The Waykar dehumidifier ran at a lower 49dB in our testing, so may be the one to go for if this is a priority.

Still, the Pro Breeze isn’t too loud. 54dB is around the same level as other household appliances. It’ll be enough to disturb people who sleep lightly, but the same is true for pretty much every other dehumidifier. You get used to it.

You can turn off the digital display and LEDs, so the Pro Breeze won’t disturb you light-wise.

Pro Breeze Dehumidifier review: App

In the U.S., there doesn’t appear to be a companion app for the Pro Breeze. In the U.K., there is an app version of the dehumidifier, which is slightly more expensive (and which I’d recommend, as the controls are awkward). I tested the U.K. non-app version.

Pro Breeze Dehumidifier review: How does it compare?

The Pro Breeze Dehumidifier isn’t the best at anything, really. The Frigidaire 50-pint Dehumidifier and GoveeLife Smart 50-pint Dehumidifier are faster, while being similarly priced. Personally, I’d spend a little more and bag the Frigidaire.

That said, while its high-speed, extreme humidity performance may not be the best, the Pro Breeze still does an excellent job at keeping levels stable longer term. With that in mind, all three rivals are equally ugly, similarly priced, and take up around the same amount of space. So, realistically, you can take your pick.

In the U.K., I’d definitely recommend my other dehumidifier, the Bosch Dry 2000 (or its bigger sibling, the Dry 4000), instead. Performance is similar, but I find the controls more intuitive and the styling ever-so-slightly nicer.

Pro Breeze Dehumidifier review: Verdict

The Pro Breeze Dehumidifier isn’t a bad product. It does a good job at everyday dehumidification, keeping levels low if you run it all the time. It wasn’t the fastest performer we’ve seen, but did the job eventually in high-humidity scenarios. The variety of modes is useful, if not a little confusing at first, and the water tank is spacious and easy to empty, if not a little tricky to refit.

At the end of the day, if you’re struggling with damp and mold, there are better dehumidifiers out there, but the Pro Breeze isn’t a terrible solution by any stretch. Still, I’d advise waiting for a sale if you can.

The Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 (bit of a tongue-twister, right?) is a 2-in-1 floor fan and air purifier, designed to help keep your home air healthy while you stay cool.

As you can probably already tell from the image up there, it looks about as quintessentially Dyson as it’s possible to get and comes with equally Dyson-esque build quality. It’s a strong air purifier and boasts a range of useful features in its app. Plus, none of its rivals on our roundup of the best air purifiers include a fan, either.

Unfortunately, the Dyson looks and build quality also bring the inevitable Dyson premium: this thing is extremely expensive. The cooling function, meanwhile, isn’t much better than that of a standard blade fan.

But could this still be the right air purifier for you? Find out in my full Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review.

Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review: Specs

Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review: Price & availability

The Dyson Find+Follow PC3 costs $849 from Dyson in the U.S. and £549 in the U.K., so you’re paying the usual Dyson premium. The U.S. price is especially high, and if you can’t stretch that far, I’d advise looking at the Windmill Air Purifier ($299) or Blueair Blue Signature ($499, although often discounted at Amazon) — these are two of our favorite air purifiers.

The Dyson somewhat justifies an enlarged price tag over rivals. Firstly, it’s also a fan, which the Windmill and Blueair aren’t. It packs the usual beautiful Dyson build quality and beautiful modern styling; plus connectivity with the Dyson app. So, if you already use Dyson gear, the PC3 will blend in seamlessly from both an aesthetic and user-interface standpoint.

Still, $849 is wildly expensive, and there isn’t really any way to make it make sense. It’s an extravagance. You want Dyson, you have to pay the Dyson tax.

Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review: Design

The PC3 design is archetypal Dyson — gloss-white finish; premium bronze base; confident curves contrasted with clean, straight lines. It’s pure neo-noughties, and I love it. It pairs extremely well with my DysonSolarcycle Morph desk lamp, which I also have in a bronze finish.

It feels like a Dyson product, too — extremely high quality. I moved my two review units around the house a lot during testing. Annoyingly, there are no wheels, so I simply scooped my forearm through the top of the fan loop to carry it around. I neither heard nor felt a single groan or unnerving sound while doing so.

The air purifier uses HEPA filters, which are the bare minimum you should look for in any air purifier or vacuum cleaner. These filter out 99.95% of particles, including viruses, bacteria, spores, pollen and pet dander. There’s a carbon filter to trap the potentially harmful byproducts of combustion, including NO2; and a Selective Catalytic Oxidation (SCO) filter, which traps toxic formaldehyde and, according to Dyson, never needs replacing.

Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review: Setup & use

The Dyson PC3 is extremely easy to set up as it comes pre-assembled. You simply unbox and unpackage it and it’s basically ready to go. You can use it without the Dyson app, but I wouldn’t advise doing so. There’s a QR code on the packaging for downloading the app.

Once in the app, there’s a simple setup process to pair the fan to your app via Bluetooth. This works flawlessly each time (I had two PC3s to set up) and takes a minute or so. You then choose your room and, voilà, you can use the app as a remote control. The app is fantastic, giving you control over modes, fan speed, precise fan direction and rotation, and air purification. The controls are straightforward and all self-explanatory.

There’s a remote control included, which attaches to the top of the fan magnetically and features the same controls as in the app. But although any changes you make on the remote will be shown on the PC3’s LED display, it’s still way more intuitive to see exactly what you’re doing in the Dyson app.

The remote’s buttons aren’t backlit, either, so it’s impossible to see what you’re pressing at nighttime. It’s handy for making basic adjustments during the day, I guess, and will be necessary if multiple people want to adjust the fan (visitors, or in an office).

Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review: Performance

The PC3 serves dual purposes. Not only is it an air purifier, but one of Dyson’s renowned standing cooling fans. I’ll evaluate both separately, as well as the Find+Follow mode and noise levels.

Air purifier

Firstly, I’ll discuss the PC3’s air purification, which is pretty good. According to Dyson, a single fan purifies rooms up to 27m², filtering over 290 litres per second. The PC3 filters and tracks a variety of contaminants, which can be viewed in basic form on the display, or in detail via the app.

• PM2.5 — Particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns, including smoke, burning candles and industrial emissions
• PM10 — Particular matter smaller than 10 microns, including pollen and allergens
• VOCs — Volatile organic compounds, such as cooking odors, burning fuel, perfume and cleaning products
• NO2 — Nitrogen dioxide and oxidizing gases, the remnants from combustion, including from cooking and vehicles
• The PC3 also tracks general air quality, which is affected by all the above

Initially, I ran the air purifier in my living room, which is next to a busy road, keeping the windows open to see if there was any spike in NO2 emissions. If there were, these proved easy work for the PC3, which kept NO2 and air quality in the green.

I ran the same tests in my kitchen with the doors and windows to my garden open, to induce some PM10 allergens like pollen into the room. The grass pollen count in my area was moderate to high, but even so I couldn’t get a reading on the PC3.

So, I subjected the air purifier to some sterner tests. I first cooked homemade pizza in my oven. After it was done, I deliberately left semolina flour and cornflour to burn on my pizza steel inside the oven. Then I opened the oven door.

The PM2.5 and PM10 immediately spiked, and my kitchen air quality was sent straight into the red (very poor). Within 30 minutes, the PC3 in auto mode had pulled the air quality back into yellow (fair). By 2.5 hours later, the air quality was back in the green (good).

I then ran a closed-door, closed-window and closed-curtain test in my bedroom, which is smaller. I sprayed lots of aerosolized dry anti-perspirant, lit a candle and burnt several matches down to the wick before blowing them out and letting them smoke. I could literally taste how disgusting the air was in the room. PM2.5 and PM10 figures went through the roof, this time the worst level: purple (severe). The PC3 automatically ramped up to max power and cleared the room back to green (good) in around 30-minutes. The smell of the aerosol was cleared earlier, though, in around 10 minutes.

These rates are fairly good in my book. The Windmill Air Purifier and Blueair Blue Signature — two of our favorite air purifiers — will clear candle smoke or a handful of flour in minutes, but the test I subjected the Dyson to was way more extreme, and it only took half an hour to get air quality levels from severe back to good.

Cooling fan

I tested the PC3 at the perfect time — a heatwave hit the U.K. just two days after I started testing. Temperatures hit 33C, or 91F, and if you’ve ever been to Britain in the summer, you’ll know we don’t do aircon in our homes.

The PC3 definitely helped keep my wife and I cooler than if we’d had no fan. Unfortunately, though, the PC3 isn’t worth spending the money on if you’re only after a cooling fan. The performance wasn’t any better than my $50 conventional bladed fan.

At night, with the PC3 at the foot of my bed and running at full blast, the fan wasn’t strong enough for air to reach my face and keep me cool. I had to dig out my small bladed fan to put on my bedside table. At close quarters, this felt as powerful and cooling as the Dyson.

On a positive note, the PC3 has a rear diffusion mode, which is useful. This diffuses cooler air out of the rear of the fan loop, rather than directly at you through the front — it’s better for gentler, longer-term cooling in less extreme ambient temperatures.

Find+Follow

The PC3’s Find+Follow setting uses a sensor and subject detection to detect, lock onto and track subjects round the room, following them with the fan (there’s no recording taking place, though, for the security conscious). It’s kinda cool, accurately detecting and following you when you walk nearby. With more than one person detected, it’ll automatically rotate to hit them both, so no need to keep setting rotation angles manually as people move.

There are a few problems, though. Firstly, it doesn’t work with animals. In the hot weather, I wanted my dogs to get some breeze, so I had to set the rotation angle manually. Secondly, the detection range is a little narrow, so it failed to find me a few times, and I had to manually start a detection sweep. Finally, it had trouble recognizing people when they sat down on a low sofa or lay down, meaning I had to set the rotation manually again. These issues undermined the hands-off experience Find+Follow is supposed to allow.

Noise levels

The PC3 obviously makes noise. It’s a whopping great big fan. It isn’t that loud though, and at full power (10) it was peaking at 57.6dB on DecibelX — equating to other household appliances like a dishwasher. There’s a night mode, which turns off the display and pares back the noise a little, but at its quietest, the PC3 still operates at 50dB.

This is obviously rather noisy in the dead of night. I’m used to running a dehumidifier at night, so running the PC3 at full pelt didn’t bother me. But if you’re a sensitive sleeper, the noise may still be an issue. Check out the Dyson HushJet Compact Air Purifier instead, which operates at just 27dB.

Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review: App

The Dyson app is fairly good. It’s a little janky sometimes, failing to connect to my Dyson Solarcycle Morph desk lamp. But with the PC3, I have no complaints. As I’ve detailed throughout, the app is by far the easiest and most insightful way to control the PC3. Being able to visualize the controls on your smartphone instead of the tiny LED screen is super handy. And then there are the in-depth graphs to show you real-time and longer-term air quality. Without the app, I’m not sure I could’ve scored this product as highly.

Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review: Storage & maintenance

If (like me) you don’t have a large house, storing this badboy is gonna be a problem. The PC3 is very tall, and although narrow (making it easy to fit into narrow spaces), still takes up as much real estate as a floor lamp. If you’ve already got a floor lamp where a floor lamp should go, well, the PC3 will need to stand awkwardly wherever it can. And with no folding or dismantling possible, what you see is what you get.

Maintenance is fairly simple: just replace the filters when needed. Dyson recommends changing every 12-months, or when the app/LED counter reaches 0%. I ran both my fans at full tilt for around a week (day and night), and the percentage dropped to 97%. That was quite an extreme test, though, and home users should only need to replace one a year.

The PC3 uses Dyson’s 360-degree combined HEPA H13 + K-Carbon filter, which costs $89 / £85 each. Replacing the filters couldn’t be easier: press the button to release the case covers, remove the filters, insert new ones, then close it all back up again.

Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review: How does it compare?

In terms of its purifying, the Dyson is a match for other large rivals like the Windmill Air Purifier, albeit much more expensive and bulky. The Windmill is much more understated, design-wise, blending in perfectly alongside a laundry basket in our review — that might be the one to go for if you’re not a fan of the Dyson’s “statement piece” design. If you’re short on space (or indeed cash), meanwhile, the Blueair Blue Signature or Shark NeverChange Compact Pro are much better choices.

I’d only really recommend spending extra on the PC3 over any of its rivals if you have other Dyson products using the app and/or you need a 2-in-1 fan and purifier — none of our favorite air purifiers offer that. Still, you can grab a cheaper, older model like the Dyson PC1 ($549) and get many of the same core benefits.

Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 review: Verdict

The Dyson Find+Follow Purifier Cool PC3 is an excellent air purifier, cleaning extremely polluted air in under 30 minutes during testing. For moderate day-to-day use, it’ll have no issues keeping the air in your home healthy. It packs a variety of very useful features, not least the Dyson app, which is critical to the PC3’s user-friendliness. There’s also the Find+Follow function, which is cool, but a little flawed. And of course, there’s the built-in floor fan, which our other favorite air purifiers don’t offer.

That said, it’s heinously expensive in the U.S., and rather difficult to justify. If you really need a 2-in-1 purifier and fan combo, it could be worth the spend. And if you have other recent Dyson gear, the PC3 will fit in both aesthetically and technologically, thanks to the ecosystem-wide Dyson app.

At the end of the day, the PC3 is a Dyson. It’s expensive, arguably overpriced, but would I give it back? Only if forced.

Gardening doesn't have to be complicated and it also doesn't have to be expensive. I say this because I'm constantly on the hunt for hacks that'll save me money from using potato peel to supercharge my garden to using old tea bags to help my roses thrive, both of which have seriously surprised me with the results. And during my most recent scrolling frenzy on social media, I stumbled upon a really clever idea.

I've always wanted to make a miniature garden without having to spend cash on planters and pots. I'm short on space, time and money, so the hack I found was perfect, especially as I have an abundance of succulents looking for a new place to live. What's even better about is that it uses a kitchen item I already had at home (and most likely you do too). For this one, all I needed was an old milk jug. So, instead of putting it in the recycling, here's what I did instead.

How does it work?

TikTok creator, @dumpsterbunny posts an eclectic mix of videos to her over 35k followers and amongst her hobbies, she shares her love of gardening. As featured above, she's even posted a hack where she takes an old milk jug and totally transforms it into a lovely miniature succulent garden. Thankfully, it's super simple to follow.

All you have to do is this:

• Cut an empty milk jug in half, just under the handle
• Take the lid off and turn the top half upside down and place it in the bottom half
• If not secure, cut two holes and use a zip-tie to secure the bottom half round the handle
• Add in small rocks to the bottom, add soil on top of that, and then add your miniature plants and/or succulents

In case you're wondering, the reason behind placing your milk jug upside down with the lid off is to create a drainage system for the bottom of your garden. And by placing the rocks down before the soil, you can prevent the soil from blocking the drainage hole underneath.

This creates a perfect environment to add whatever plants you like from ones you're propagating, to ones looking for a new home, or perhaps to create entirely new seed starters for spring.

Here's what happened when I tried it

I'm always keen to give hacks a try myself before suggesting them, just so I can make sure they actually turn out the way they've been described online. But, while I'm still in the process of propagating my succulents, for now I've only built my miniature garden pot from a milk jug and have yet to add in my plants.

I found this hack super simple and for some reason, my milk jug fit perfectly together, meaning I didn't need to use any zip-ties either. I'm mainly impressed with how it looks as I imagined the edges would be jagged from cutting it up. What I will do next though is decorate it to make it look a little more aesthetic among my other pots.

What I do know for certain is that it cost me absolutely zero dollars to create (apart from the milk, which I'd buy regardless). It also turned out to be a fun project that I could get my six-year-old involved with, too.

More from Tom's Guide

• This 10-minute gardening routine has made a huge difference to my outdoor space — here's why I do it every evening
• Supercharge your yard without spending a dime: 5 household items to repurpose right now
• This garden hack will help your plants thrive — and all you need to do is boil some eggs

There’s no doubt in my mind that the best robot vacuum cleaners are getting closer in performance to their non-autonomous cousins every year, and I've tested my fair share.

Narwal might be a less familiar brand to some of you, but it’s one of five big Chinese brands that’s made a huge impact on the robot vacuum market. Narwal in particular has been focused on robots that mop as well as vacuum, and that's exactly what I tested here.

Over two months, the Narwal Flow primarily lived in the hallway adjoining my dining room and sitting room. With a busy period falling right in the middle of our testing window, it saw a fair bit of action in cleaning up after visitors. That included vacuuming our guest bedroom's low-pile carpet, and mopping our tiled kitchen and downstairs loo, and the vinyl in our bathroom. That's a lot of social pressure, so how did it fare?

Narwal Flow Robot Vacuum & Mop Review: Price and availability

The Narwal Flow has an official RRP of $1,599.99 and is currently available on the US Narwal site for $1,399.99and at Amazon for $1,499

UK users can purchase this on Amazon or on the Narwal UK website for £1,330.

Narwal Flow Robot Vacuum & Mop Review: Design

The first thing that strikes you when the Flow arrives is its heft. It comes in a huge box that is marked as heavy – I'd suggest you heed the warning and have two people lift it.

Open the box from the top and there is a cardboard sleeve containing the rather sparse instruction manual (there are just five pages of instructions in English) and the two spinning brushes that clip into the base of the vacuum.

Lift this off and the vacuum and its docking station are held in place with a cardboard support. The vacuum is already housed in its base (with some polystyrene for good measure), and both are wrapped in a plastic bag.

Open the lid of the dock and you'll find two water tanks – one housing some pleasant surprises. First there's a spare dust bag (one was already fitted inside the dock), as well as a bottle of detergent, a spare vacuum filter (again, one is already fitted) and a spare 'insert bin' – the small bin that sits inside the vacuum itself and is emptied after every visit to the docking station.

It's nice to have these replaceable parts included, especially as it's probably the first time most of us will have bought a Narwal product. New dustbags will set you back $19.99 for two on Narwal's website, while a new filter costs $35.99, again for two. Narwal says a dustbag will typically last 120 before it needs replacing.

I was, however, a little disappointed that there were no spare side brushes at this price point. In my experience of robot vacuums, I've found these need replacing reasonably frequently. That said, Narwal's have survived two months of testing very well.

The Flow's vacuum design is pleasantly simple. It has an all-over white, slightly glossy finish, which I preferred over black – I find the latter tends to show up even the tiniest amount of settled dust quite badly.

Underneath, there's a mop pad that lifts by 0.47in/1.2cm when not in use so that you won't get carpets or wood floors damp, and shuffles left and right to get tight up against edges.

There are also those two side brushes that easily clip into place and can shift from a V formation to a "II" one and reverse direction so that nothing gets tangled in them.

Finally, there is a tangle-free roller brush, which rather ingeniously connects on one side only. This is meant to help hair to flow cleanly into the dustbin – and as I'll explain, worked brilliantly.

Initially, setting everything up seemed straightforward. The only extra bits I needed to attach were the two spinning brushes, which clipped into place easily. Everything else – the mop pad, the filter tray in the base of the docking station, dust bag, mini vac bin and water tanks were already in position.

As explained, I popped the the vacuum in my narrow hallway. Now, Narwal recommends leaving a 0.45m long space in front of dock so that the Flow can easily manoeuvre in and out. I only had a 34in/88cm-wide space to play with, but the robot seemed to take this in its stride. It is a bulky unit though, so you will need to think carefully about where it might live without it becoming a nuisance. Also, the 1.4m power cable will limit you in terms of nearby power sockets.

As the five-page instruction manual wasn't much help, I was eager to download the app and pair my robot to WiFi. Both processes were easy, I entered my router password, and the Flow was online in a handful of seconds. So far, so good — but then I had to deal with the app.

Narwal Flow Robot Vacuum & Mop Review: App Experience

When you first open the app, you'll be asked to select your model of Narwal, agree to terms and conditions, and then you'll be prompted to link to your WIFI.

Then, you'll be directed to set up an initial map for your robot. I did this without really thinking, assuming it would be easy to change later. But I suggest you pay close attention and prepare your main cleaning area beforehand. Otherwise, it gets a bit fiddly to change things, and the vacuum might take a while to respond.

Clear the floor of obstacles, open doors where you want the vacuum to travel between rooms and close doors to doors you don't want it to clean. Also, be sure that the cleaning cycle is set to vacuum only. Otherwise you risk it mopping carpets, wood floors and other things that really shouldn't be wet.

I made the mistake of not properly clearing my floor, and it took a few days for the vacuum to realise where it was allowed to go.

Unlike the far less expensive Roborock Q7 M5 vacuum, the Narwal also didn't pick up on my kitchen in its initial mapping. While it mapped the dining room, hallway, and living room area reasonably successfully (albeit not picking up the correct position of the sofa), it didn't seem to 'see' the kitchen beyond, even though I took a risk and left the door to it open.

On the first pass it simply ignored the space. Then, on the second clean, it actually threw itself down the kitchen step in a dramatic move that left it upended and crying for help. So I wouldn't put total faith in its edge detection.

But one thing I did love about the Narwal Flow was its smarts when it came to detecting the surface below. It doesn't clean during its initial mapping so there's no danger of it trying to mop a rug, for example. But it was quick to spot surface materials (wood, tiles, rugs, carpet) and committed them to memory almost immediately. And while I have seen other reviews saying that the Narwal accidentally mopped carpet on occasion, I had no issues.

Scheduling cleaning in the app

Scheduled cleaning is also relatively easy to add and set up. You'll first need to select whether you want the Narwal Flow to Vacuum and Mop, Vacuum then Mop, Vacuum or Mop Next, you hit schedule (bottom left) and pick the next date you want it to clean. From here, you'll be able to set the time, date and frequency of when it cleans (you have options of every 1-6 days or 1-4 weeks), as well as the rooms to clean.

While you can't set it to do different tasks in different parts of the house on one schedule, you can set multiple schedules focused on different tasks.

I found this all really easy to do, and the Narwal Flow loyally followed my instructions each time.

Other app features

There's also a 'history' section where you can see how much cleaning your robot has done in the past day, week or year, including the area cleaned and time taken. To be honest, I'm not sure how useful people will generally find this, bar resolving a family dispute about whether the housework has been done!

There are two other key areas of the app worth pointing out. The 'Dock' icon on the bar to the left of the map will take you to a handy screen that lets you know if your dust bag needs emptying. And the hexagon on the bar to the top right takes you to various settings such as the language, voice (male or female) and volume of the voice, or pet-friendly mode, which you can activate to make sure the robot is extra-cautious in case it runs into any furry friends. This also does clever things like enable a 'pet cleaning zone' that will up the intensity of cleaning in certain areas.

My general feelings about the app were that it was a little slow, with some lag. A lot of functions were hard to find, such us the child lock (under general), and I found the map management quite fiddly. I did get used to it after a couple of months. But its worth spending some time to familiarise yourself with all the settings.

Narwal Flow Robot Vacuum & Mop Review: Performance

What's it like to use on hard floors?

Initially, I gave the Narwal Flow access to our hallway, dining room, and living room, leaving the door to the kitchen open to see if it would acknowledge the step down to this area. All three have solid wooden floors.

I also used the vacuum regularly on my tiled kitchen floor and in my lino-covered bathroom. The robot worked in a logical way, first working its way around the perimeter of the room, before crossing up and down. It felt that no spot was missed, and lots of dirt and debris was captured. I did leave a sprinkling of small debris along with things I didn't want it to pick up – including a Lego Minifigure. Impressively, my Lego friend was avoided while other scraps of paper were collected.

However, on close inspection, the edge cleaning wasn't exceptional. The Narwal Flow struggled to clean the dust that gathered under my radiators, and also when picking up dirt along the kitchen skirting boards. It wasn't just an issue of tight corners – it wasn't great along long edges either. On more than one occasion, I manually used a dustpan brush to sweep out debris from tighter corners to the main floor, where it was then successfully picked up.

I did like, however, how it avoided obstacles. As you are cleaning, if it encounters any, it will take a picture of what its seen. This then appears as an icon on the cleaning map, and if you click through, you'll see what it avoided.

And unlike other robot vacuums I tried, the Narwal Flow has less of a tendency to get stuck, thanks to its low profile and impressive navigation. Unlike the Roborock Q7 M5 it was able to glide under my sofa and TV bench with ease, and tucked under radiators, even if it didn't actually clean those edges very well.

Next, let's focus on the noises it makes. I've come to realise that most robot vacuum cleaners like to talk, and the Narwal Flow is no exception. As soon as 'she' (there is an option for a male voice if you prefer, but the default is female) is prompted to clean via the app or the button on the top of the dock, she will tell you 'vacuuming starting'. When she's done, she returns to base and says 'self cleaning started', then 'charging started'. There's lots of other chat in her repertoire, too, depending on whether she's mopping, or just plain stuck.

One thing the Narwal Flow has over some other robots though, is that it responds to voice commands. Say "Hey Nawa, start cleaning the living room" and it will. I also asked it to "stop cleaning", "go back to base" and "adjust suction power to super powerful" and all instructions were obeyed. It also reassuringly says 'I'm here' whenever you command it, so you know it's listening.

There is a little trial and error involved. If you haven't set room names in the Map Editing area, it's not automatically going to know what you mean by 'vacuum the kitchen'. And it didn't respond to 'return to dock' or 'reduce suction' – you do need to be quite specific. But once you've mastered the specific commands, the voice control is really useful. Especially if you have your hands full and want to clean a spill quickly without reaching for your phone.

As more of a scientific test of its cleaning abilities, we cleared a 5ft x 5ft area of both a tiled and carpeted floor, and asked the Narwal Flow to pick up 20g each of Cheerios, kitty litter and a mix of dog and human hair. The results were as follows

In general, the Narwal Flow seems great at picking up ground-in dirt, but seemed to struggle with larger pieces of debris.

I was quite surprised that when I weighed things out, it actually picked up a larger volume of kitty litter than it did Cheerios on both carpet and hard floors. Instead, it seemed to push these items towards the edges of the room, where they weren't always collected. Increasing the suction to 'super powerful' did help, but cereal was still left behind.

The same went for the small clumps of hair (a mix of human, pet and artificial), that I littered the floor with. The Narwal didn't always do the best job of picking them up. At one point it did wonder if it was actively avoiding them! However, the hair it did pick up generally got sucked into the dust bin and little got caught in the brush roller which I was super impressed with.

Noise levels

Using a sound meter app, I measured the average volume of the Narwal Flow while standing around 1m away in these different scenarios:

Cleaning wood floors: 55dB (Quiet) to 74dB (Super powerful)
Cleaning carpet: 49dB (Quiet) to 68dB (Super powerful)
Cleaning ceramic floor tiles: 55dB (Quiet) to 71.5dB (Super powerful)

The moral is, when the Narwal is quiet, it's very quiet, and when it's loud, you don't really want to be in the same room. That said, the noise really does convince you of its suction power!

What is it like to use on carpet?

Anyone that read my review of the Roborock Q7 M5 will know that I was pleasantly surprised regarding its performance on carpet, but the Narwal Flow took things to another level when it came to extracting dirt and dust.

The picture below shows the nastiness extracted from the same bedroom carpet that had been vacuumed two weeks before (yikes). I was in equal parts impressed and horrified...

As the Cheerios/kitty litter/hair testing data shows, it was marginally better at picking up hair on carpet compared to hard floors. Otherwise, the vacuum performed better on hard floors when it came to picking up cereal and grit.

This was good news in a way, as hair tends to collect on my bedroom carpet, as it's where I blow-dry and style my 'do. I don't tend to eat or wear shoes in the carpeted parts of our home, so I wasn't too concerned about its performance in the other tests and would still highly recommend it based on the dirt I saw it remove.

What is it like to use as a mop?

If there is one good reason to buy the Narwal Flow, it's that it is brilliant at cleaning floors. I was actually amazed at the job it did – in fact, it actually beat out a plug-in Bissell steam cleaner when it came to cleaning up dried-on ketchup.

The only suitable floor to test the Narwal's mopping ability on was our kitchen, which meant relocating the dock down a step to the kitchen floor. This is because the Narwal will periodically return to the dock to empty any dirty water and pick up some fresh water-detergent mix. As a task, this was cumbersome, but if your hard floors are all on one level, it won't be an issue.

The Narwal's base station has two water tanks – one purple, for your clean water and detergent, and one for dirty water. Narwal recommends adding one to three capfuls of detergent for every full tank of water, which I measured to be approx 4.6 litres using a jug. In our tests, we decided to go for two capfuls – I'd imagine the bottle would last as long as 6-8 tankfuls of water, and given I'd use less than half a tank for each wash, that's at least 12-16 cleans of my kitchen.

Narwal does recommend you only use its own cleaning solution in the tank 'otherwise the device may become faulty', according to the instruction manual.

Once you have added the water and detergent you simply reload the clean water tank, and command the robot to mop. It takes a few minutes for the tank to heat up the water, and you'll hear a lot of gurgling as it does so. It then works around the room, again starting at the perimeters and then working back and forth, up and down.

The water that comes out of the mop steams hot, and leaves the floor reassuringly warm and slightly damp. I was impressed that there were never any puddles of water on the floor, which can often be left by the Bissell cleaner I'm currently testing, and that this careful release of water cleaner effectively yet dried quickly.

The Narwal Flow will repeatedly run the mopping cycle until it deems the floor to be totally clean. In the case of the kitchen, it ran four cycles, going back to the base each time to reload with fresh water. My kitchen measures approximately 6 sq m (2 x 3m), and the whole process took 27 minutes.

Beforehand, I deliberately left some ketchup to dry overnight on the tiles, and you can see the results below. The Narwal cleaned the mess almost instantly – going over the area twice. But I was impressed at how quickly the ketchup lifted from the surface.

You can also see the dirty water collected by the Narwal at the end of the cleaning cycle.

Narwal Flow Robot Vacuum & Mop Review: Ease of cleaning and maintenance

In the main, the Narwal Flow is very easy to look after. The large water tanks are very easy to wipe clean, with few awkward nooks and crannies, and the dust mag is extremely simple to unclip and replace.

Usually the bane of my life when it comes to vacuums, the brush roller on the Narwal is one of the best I've ever encountered. To remove it, you simply press down on a purple catch and push in and up to unclip the cover. As the roller is only secured to one side of the main body of the vacuum, it's then just a case of pulling it out. As the roller is slightly tapered, any hair naturally works its way down the roller and gets sucked into the dust cavity. I would occasionally have to remove hair that had been tightly wrapped, but this happened rarely and was easy to pull free without scissors due to the design.

My one major bugbear is the two side brushes. Once clipped in, there is no obvious way to remove them. For now, that's not an issue, but if you did want to replace them down the line, I'm not sure how you'd do so.

Narwal Flow Robot Vacuum & Mop Review: Comparisons

As mentioned, I have recently tested the more basic spec Roborock Q7 M5, which doesn't have the self-emptying function, and costs a fraction of the price. In my opinion, the Roborock is superior to the Narwal Flow in its suction power and ability to pick up larger pieces of debris, and I also found its app and mapping easier to use and navigate. And the fact the Q7 M5 takes up a lot less space will be a boon to many.

However, if you are looking for a vacuum-mop hybrid, the Narwal Flow wins hands down. Its mopping ability is simply superb. And the Narwal is also more suited to allergy sufferers, since all the dust is collected up into a bag – as long as you're happy to pay extra for the dust bags.

I will also give the Narwal some credit for its voice control feature, which works well once you've mastered the commands. And I did like certain aspects of the app – for example, that it takes pictures of any obstacles it encounters so you can see what's causing issues from your phone. It's one of those little details that might no be particularly necessary, but is still clever. And imagine if you have pets you'll really appreciate it!

Narwal Flow Robot Vacuum & Mop Review: Verdict

There is a lot to like about the Narwal Flow. Top of the list are its exceptional mopping capabilities and easy maintenance. It's also on the quiet side for a robot vacuum, particularly on carpet, where its powerful suction pulls out deep-seated dirt with ease. And while it sometimes struggles with larger clumps of hair, it's unlikely you'll find them tangled in the brush roller for once!

I found the Flow less successful at edge cleaning and picking up very large particles such as cereal. My other main bugbear is that if you want to use it in other rooms that aren't on the same level as the base station, it can be temperamental or unwilling to co-operate.

Be aware that replacement dustbins and cleaning solution are quite pricey, so ongoing usage may be more costly. And the app take some getting used to. I did like the easy scheduling though, and was impressed by its AI smarts, such as floor material detection.

However, I'd recommend the Narwal Flow for homes with large living areas on one level and for those that prize good mopping skills. It's definitely worth considering.

Don't ignore a drooping tomato plant. When heat hits and your prized tomatoes suddenly sag, they’re throwing up a red flag. It’s a heartbreaking sight, but that dramatic slouch is actually a cry for help.

Wilting is a copycat symptom for five completely distinct issues, from simple thirst to hidden pests. Guessing the cure can cost you your harvest, and applying the wrong fix could finish the plant off entirely.

Fortunately, most tomato drama is completely reversible once you know what to look for. Here's 5 common reasons your tomato plant wilts and how to fix fast.

More from Tom's Guide

• Why are my tomato plant leaves turning yellow? 5 steps to save your harvest
• How to double your tomato harvest — the 3-step pruning system for massive yields
• Gardeners swear by this simple trick — here's how to save split tomatoes fast

I'm a big fan of camping. My dad used to take me when I was little. I've done it at festivals and I've even done it in random fields (legally, of course). Over the years, I've gone from roughing it with just a sleeping bag and a prayer for good weather to cultivating a collection of essentials that make the adventure a little more comfortable.

And while IKEA doesn't have a dedicated camping range, as such, it's turned into one of my go-to places for grabbing gear. With a variety of outdoor furniture, accessories, and even apparel, it's a budget-friendly way to enjoy a summer of tents and backpacking.

IKEA has even launched the SOLUPPGÅNG range – an outdoor collection that "encourages everyone to enjoy nature without a threshold." A thoughtful musing, but what's even better is it's on an IKEA budget. Here are the 12 IKEA camping essentials I recommend.

More from Tom's Guide

• IKEA's new wireless charger looks like a donut and costs $9, but it's surprisingly capable
• I just upgraded my home with these 5 IKEA items
• How to paint your IKEA furniture for a flawless finish — decorating experts share their top tips

Roborock is a brand well-versed in creating home robotic solutions that feel very futuristic. Earlier this year, it released four new robot vacuums, including one that can climb stairs, and we've recently tested the Roborock QV 35S, a self-emptying robot vacuum with obstacle avoidance. But right now, it's focused on expanding its outdoor offering with a new robot lawnmower that has a lot to offer.

The RockNeo Q110H combines a host of smart features, including AI-powered mapping, precise edge-cutting, awareness of real-world conditions and more into one pretty impressive looking product. Not forgetting to mention, it also looks like it has a little face. And it's available to buy now for $1299 at Amazon.

More about the Roborock RockNeo Q110H

The Roborock RockNeo Q110H joins a small line-up of robot lawnmowers for the company and, unsurprisingly, it's got a lot of the same technology built in. To get into the nitty-gritty of what's under the lid, we're talking "Sentisphere Environmental Perception" with "full-brand RTK and VSLAM navigation", "Stereo Vision Obstacle Avoidance", and an "optional PreciEdge cutting module."

To add a bit of color to those swanky feature titles, it basically means that the RockNeo Q110H assess real-world conditions to ensure it operates and understands the weather.

It'll also stick to dense tree cover and keep on course when navigating sharp corners and narrow passages.

The RockNeo Q110H also utilizes obstacle avoidance technology to adjust its path in real-time. So, if there's toys or garden items lying around, it'll move around them without halting its progress. For humans and animals, it'll also turn away to stay safe (for both parties). And the optional PreciEdge module is an additional extra for helping to navigate near-perfect finishes across your garden edges.

And while other lawnmowers in Roborock's range, namely the RockMow X1, use AI-powered mapping already, there's an over-the-air upgrade coming soon that aims to further reduce any hard manual setup.

While all these features are a great addition to the RockNeo Q110H, I'm a particularly big fan of the Roborock App.

A companion app that's actually good

In the app, you can manage multiple zones of your garden with their own unique schedules, you can also monitor how your lawnmower is getting on, as well as getting a predicted finishing time.

There's even a Wildlife-Friendly Mode that will pause the lawnmower during set hours so that it won't bother nocturnal animals like hedgehogs who are navigating your garden.

This is where the AI-powered mapping upgrade comes in, arriving via the app, making setup and personlization even more impressive. And while it's sold separately, you can also add in a 4G and Anti-Theft Module that'll sound an alarm if the mower is lifted or moved outside a preset fence, all of which can be tracked in the app.

A smart lawnmower and a decent accompanying app to boot.

More from Tom's Guide

• Best robot lawnmowers of CES
• Is the Ecovacs Goat A3000 worth it? My honest review after four months of testing
• I just tried a robot lawnmower for the first time — here's how it went

Dull mower blades are the most overlooked cause of an unhealthy lawn. Instead of cutting grass cleanly, dull blades tear and shred grass blades, leaving ragged edges that turn brown, invite disease, and stress roots.

Sharp mower blades can make all the difference between a pristine lawn and a damaged one. Sharpening your lawn mower blades takes about 30 minutes, requires no professional help, and saves you money on premature blade replacements.

Whether you're using a metal file or an angle grinder, this step-by-step guide covers exactly how to sharpen your mower blade safely, at the right angle, and correctly balanced, so your grass stays healthy all season long.

How often should I sharpen my lawn mower blade? 

Sharpen your lawn mower blades after every 25 hours of mowing, which is roughly twice per season for regular users.

Beyond the schedule, torn or ragged grass edges after cutting, a lawn that yellows a day or two after mowing, or visible nicks on the blade are all signs it needs attention sooner. Hitting a rock, stick, or hard object while mowing warrants an immediate inspection too.

Always sharpen before storing your mower for winter. It prevents corrosion and means the mower is ready to go the moment spring arrives.

Not every dull blade is worth sharpening. Cracks or fractures anywhere on the blade, a severe bend that sharpening won't correct, or metal worn so thin from repeated sharpening that it won't hold an edge — these are all signs replacement is the right move.

Once you've sharpened your mower blades and mown your lawn, it’s worth leaving the grass clippings on your lawn. They’ll act as a natural mulch and fertilizer.

More from Tom's Guide

• 11 secrets to a lawn that’s greener than your neighbor's
• Ant hills multiplying? How to destroy the colony before it takes over your yard
• 7 tips to banish weeds from your lawn that won't harm the grass

Now that the weather is warmer, I’m looking forward to getting my charcoal grill out of hibernation and preparing for our summer backyard gatherings. But despite my love for those delicious smoky flavors, I must admit that my grilling technique is always hit-and-miss.

That’s why I decided to ask a professional chef what the secret is to perfecting your grilling game. As it turns out, I've been approaching it wrong all this time — but not anymore.

So if you want to improve your succulent steaks or simply wish to impress your guests, here’s the top grilling tip we all must do for that perfect taste.

Learn to cook with the fire

Mastering the art of cooking properly with the fire is a total game-changer. My usual routine involved just spreading everything across the grates and waiting patiently for one side to finish before flipping over. But as it turns out, the secret lies in staying active and constantly shifting your ingredients across the heat.

“For me, barbecue cooking is one of the purest and most enjoyable ways to cook. It’s instinctive, hands-on and social - proper primal cooking over fire!” states Tommy Banks, British Chef and brand ambassador for Kasai Grills.

“Cooking over fire is very instinctive," Banks says. "You have to stay involved with it. A great barbecue isn’t about putting something down and walking away. It’s about moving food around constantly, understanding where the hotspots and cooler spots are, adjusting heights and controlling caramelization and smoke levels. That movement is what gives you beautifully cooked food instead of burnt food!”

Of course, always proceed with caution whenever cooking over a flame, and avoid doing this near children or pets running around.

Fire it up early

Another common mistake people often make is not firing up the grill early enough. This is especially the case for lump wood charcoal, where you’ll need to allow adequate time for it to heat up. Again, this will make all the difference to your tasty results.

“People get impatient and start cooking while there are still flames licking everywhere,” explains Banks. “You need to let the flames die down and cook over the glowing coals instead.”

So what’s the best fuel for grilling like a pro and for the best results? “A premium lump wood charcoal is probably the best and easiest option for most people cooking at home," Banks says. "If you really want to level things up, binchotan charcoal is incredible.

"That’s what we use in the restaurants because it burns far hotter and much longer than standard charcoal. In a professional kitchen, the last thing you want is your barbecue cooling down halfway through service.”

Armed with these professional tips, I am keen to see if these will actually level up my outdoor cooking and truly impress my guests at our next backyard gathering. Watch this space.

More from Tom's Guide

• The best meat thermometers we've tested
• 3 things to consider before buying a grill
• 9 grilling safety checks you're probably forgetting

Now that warmer weather is finally here, many households have already put their best grill to good use, or are getting ready to host those backyard cookouts (World Cup watch parties, anyone?). And if you prefer cooking with wood charcoal, don’t throw out your leftover ash after your feasts.

Surprisingly, wood charcoal ash is valuable to certain plants and will help to give them a healthy boost. And gardeners are sprinkling their ash leftovers as a great soil enhancer — effectively neutralizing soil pH while providing a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium — that will help your garden thrive.

From herbs and juicy tomatoes to beautiful blooms such as roses, who knew that our smoky remnants would be liquid gold for our plants? Before you sprinkle ash into your soil, however, it’s recommended to do a test to check pH. This simple step identifies the current alkalinity levels and ensures you apply just the right amount to your plants.

In addition, avoid using wood ash around acid-loving varieties and never use it on delicate seedlings, in case it causes more harm than good! For best results, stick to plants that flourish in more alkaline environments.

So before you ditch your grill waste, put it to good use in the garden instead. Here are just a few of our favorite plants that will love your leftover charcoal ash.

Succulent strawberries

There’s nothing better than fresh, juicy strawberries, and if you want a bountiful harvest this summer, sprinkling grill ash can give them that much-needed boost.

Strawberries thrive in excellent drainage conditions, so adding wood ash to the compost (before planting) can significantly help to loosen soil and improve drainage — especially when dealing with heavy clay soil. Generally, strawberries prefer a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.0, which ranges from fairly acidic to mildly alkaline.

Tastier tomatoes

Another popular plant we all love growing here at Tom’s Guide is tomatoes. But did you know that wood ash can make a great fertilizer before planting tomato seedlings in a bed?

Similarly, tomatoes require loose, well-draining soil to grow healthy and in abundance. Adding ash around the plant bed, this can improve soil quality and add essential nutrients such as potassium that can help to prevent diseases such as blossom end rot. Again, before you sprinkle ash, always check the results of your soil tests since tomatoes are a delicate plant.

For more top tips, find out when to fertilize tomatoes: the 3-step schedule for a bountiful harvest.

Rosy roses

If you love roses or simply want to grow the perfect roses this summer, there are plenty of things to consider. More importantly, and depending on the variety, you’ll need the right soil pH level for them to thrive and stay healthy all season.

Typically, most rose varieties grow as perennials in Zones 5 to 11 and require a soil pH between 6.0 (slightly acidic) and 8.0 (alkaline). Depending on your soil test readings, you can repurpose your grill ash to amend the soil pH for your beautiful blooms — and get rid of nuisance pests too. This will help to ensure you have a healthy and vibrant rose garden to enjoy at all times.

Don't use just any grill ash!

While wood ash can certainly benefit your garden, it’s critical to remember that not every smoky remnant is good for the soil. To protect your garden's health, you should strictly avoid using leftovers from fatty briskets or any charcoal that required chemical lighter fluids, as these harmful additives can easily ruin your soil quality.

More from Tom's Guide

• 7 composting tips everyone needs to know
• Your peace lily won't survive winter if you don't change these 5 things
• Stop killing your grass: 5 safe de-icing methods you need to know

Rosemary growing wild might make you think it's unusually hardy, but like any plant, the wrong conditions can cause harm. Browning leaves are usually a sign that something is off — whether that's too much water, too little sun, or a sudden change in temperature.

Most rosemary plants can be brought back to full health with a little attention and the right fix. Before reaching for a new plant, it's worth taking a closer look at what your rosemary is trying to tell you.

Read on to find out what different signs indicate, and what to do next to restore your plant to its full, green vitality.

Is your rosemary dead or just stressed?

The best way to find out is to use the scratch test. Use a fingernail to scratch a small portion of the main stem. If you see green, moist tissue, the plant is still alive, but if the stem is brittle and brown, that branch is dead.

If you can only find brown, brittle stems, the plant is beyond saving — it’s time to start again with a new one. If you see any green, though, your rosemary may still thrive with a little extra care.

The main causes of browning (and how to fix them)

More from Tom's Guide

• Why are my tomato plant leaves turning yellow? 5 steps to save your harvest
• Forget buying new seeds: these 9 gorgeous flowers come back for free every year
• Yellow lemon tree leaves? Here’s how to get them lush and green again

With warmer temperatures here, our plants and gardens will also be feeling the heat this summer. And whether you’re a plant parent or growing veggies, it’s vital to keep up your watering schedule, or else your plants will be literally parched and end up dying.

Admittedly, I’m guilty of neglecting my watering schedule, mostly because I simply lack the time (or the energy) after a long day. That’s when I discovered this clever gardening essential that will water my flower beds naturally — without me having to lift a finger.

In fact, this method is a centuries-old water irrigation system that involves porous clay or terracotta pots. Best of all, it’s simple to use and won’t break the bank. So what are Ollas irrigation pots, and why are they my must-have tool?

What are Ollas irrigation pots and how do they work?

Ollas (pronounced ohh-yah) are porous earthenware, clay, or terracotta pots. At first glance, it looks like an ordinary clay pot with a bulb-like appearance. But the real game-changer is its ability to slowly release water into the soil and the roots of plants when it needs it.

In fact, this isn’t a clever new viral ‘hack’ — the Ollas water irrigation system was first used 4,000 years ago in China. You simply bury the terracotta ollas pot underground until its neck, fill it with water, and it will leach out water only when the soil gets dry. This is because the water is drawn out by osmosis, thanks to its porous material. What’s more, if the ground is wet, the water will remain in the olla, which means there is no risk of overwatering the soil. Impressive!

Not only does Ollas do the hard work for you, but encourages deeper root growth. For instance, if you just water the surface, this encourages roots upwards. However, deeper roots allow your plants or veggies to tap into moisture and nutrients deeper in the soil, and they can also stay cooler. Additionally, you can add liquid fertilizer to the Ollas if you want to give your roots a nutritional boost.

How I used Ollas in my yard

Ever since we started a DIY greenhouse and raised bed area, the real challenge is that the soil can often get dry quickly — especially with the temperatures rising.

Besides setting an alarm reminder on my phone, the ollas offer a much better way to water the new seeds or plants regularly. Best of all, setting it up is a breeze and only takes a few minutes of your time.

First, I dug a small hole in the soil to bury the olla, leaving 1-2 inches above the soil surface (with the neck out) to keep dirt and soil from getting inside.

Next, I packed the surrounding soil closely around the Ollas to prevent air pockets, as you want to ensure that the water can easily move into the soil and keep roots growing healthy.

I used a watering can to pour water in through the top before putting the lid on — then you simply leave it to do its work. The water will slowly leach out to provide essential hydration to the surrounding soil, keeping your thirsty plants quenched.

You'll need to refill your Ollas once or twice a week, depending on the water level, as you don’t want it to dry out. Also, if you have more than one Ollas, be sure to space them correctly — the general rule of thumb is every 2 – 3 feet in the yard for best irrigation. You can also buy various sizes to suit your outdoor space and even use in your pots or containers. Just remember where you've buried them all!

I still have yet to see how well my vegetable seeds will grow; however, this affordable water irrigation is a must-have for any gardener. Plus, it comes in handy as a self-watering pot while you’re on summer vacation too — which is a bonus.

More from Tom's Guide

• How to save water in your yard this summer
• 5 ways to keep your lawn healthy and green — without wasting water
• This NASA-approved plant hack cools your home for free

When I first looked into IKEA's affordable smart home devices, I realized I could now give my home a futuristic makeover without having to part with a load of cash. Smart home gadgets have always felt a little out of my price range or a little overwhelming, so inviting a few of these into my home to try out on a budget has been a fun endeavor.

Then, when the hot weather hit, I realized one of these devices was going to be a game changer for the rest of summer – the TIMMERFLOTTE tempereature/humidity sensor.

Why? Well, it's actually pretty simple. With a constant digital readout of the temperature or humidity, it helps me keep a check on what's happening inside my home. Not only that, but you can hook it up to anything else in the IKEA Matter Compatible System, or other devices linked up to the Matter hub. Then, you can link it up so when the weather's hot, it'll connect to other products like the MYGGBETT door/window sensor to tell you if you need to go and shut or open up to let some fresh air in.

How to use it

The IKEA TIMMERFLOTTE temperature and humidity sensor is a simple device used to keep a check on the climate inside your home, which is a super helpful tool especially when it's getting hot outside.

When we reviewed some of IKEA's new smart home devices, we noted that the TIMMERFLOTTE's all-white face shows a readout of either the temperature or humidity and to swap between the two, you simply press it. We also added: "Since the LEDs are white, it can be a bit hard to read if you're in direct sunlight."

As long as you attach it to the wall, as per the assembly instructions, out of any immediate sunlight, it'll be easier to read and a big help when you want to know how hot your home s getting.

But why it's really great for tackling the heatwave is that it's part of IKEA's smart home range. This device is built on the open standard Matter, compatible with smart systems like Amazon, Google and Samsung.

Specifically, it uses Matter over Thread, which means you need a Thread Border Router to control it through your phone, like IKEA's DIRIGERA hub. Link it up to a Matter-compatible fan or AC unit and you've got yourself a handy tool to track the temperature and then do something about it.

More from Tom's Guide

• I'm an interiors expert, and these are the 5 things I stock up on every time I go to IKEA
• This IKEA storage essential is ideal for family camping trips, and it's only $10
• I found this IKEA tool in the kids' section, but it's been a game-changer for my productivity

If you're like most gardeners, your tomatoes are taking off right now, which means the pests are on their way. Whiteflies, hornworms, root-knot nematodes, and spider mites are already hunting for tender tomato foliage and juicy fruit.

Fortunately, you can defend your entire vegetable garden with a single companion plant: marigolds.

Marigolds aren't just pretty flowers. They're pest deterrents, root protectors, and pollinator magnets that work double duty protecting both your tomatoes and surrounding vegetables.

Here's how to use them strategically throughout your garden for maximum pest protection and yield.

Got a secret weapon or hack for dealing with your garden struggles? Drop it in the comments below!

More from Tom's Guide

• Why are my tomato plant leaves turning yellow? 5 steps to save your harvest
• When to fertilize tomatoes: the 3-step schedule for a bountiful harvest
• Gardeners swear by this simple trick — here's how to save split tomatoes fast