
Impressive Before-After Photos Of 36 Effective Products
A deep-conditioning hair mask promising smoother, shinier, and stronger hair, even if you're fighting against bleached, dry, or damaged locks. It can even handle Florida levels of humidity!
A lawn dog spot repair treatment to make your crispy, brown lawn look like it belongs in front of a house in Emerald City. Reviewers say they noticed results almost immediately — as in *days*!
A lightweight gel cream from Nivea with powerful Q10 that helps plump, firm, and moisturize skin in as little as two weeks with consistent use. One reviewer found success with this when expensive neck creams from department stores and Sephora fell flat.
A pack of stain-removing pads to obliterate all the unwanted pet-related stains in your home. Lay a pad on an unwanted blemish, stomp, toss the pad, and admire your pee-free carpet.
It also works for non-pet stains like ink, soda, coffee, and more.Promising review: "Our poor older pup started having some incontinence issues and had several accidents in the house. I was really frustrated until I found these. They work amazingly well. They're small, so if the area was larger I had to use two or three, but they pulled up stains and saved the house from being smelly. I even used one on an older stain (that I'm pretty sure wasn't pet related) and it came up after leaving it on for about 24 hours. I make sure to keep a supply of these in the house at all times now." —MCGet a pack of 20 from Amazon for $24.99.
L'Oréal Paris BB Cream, a green-tinted formula that combats redness through the power of color theory. It doesn't stop there — it also works to even complexion, hydrate with vitamin E, and sets the perfect stage for you to apply your makeup on. The fairly-priced product offers light to medium coverage and won't feel crusty.
A jewelry cleaning pen you can count on to add new shine to your gems, no costly trip to the jeweler required. As someone who refuses to take off rings before washing dishes, showering, etc., I need this!
A Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener to expertly conceal and brighten dark circles under your eyes. The lightweight, color-adapting formula blends so seamlessly under makeup that your old concealer will throw itself out.
A pet brush with thin, long teeth capable of getting to the undercoat. A good brushing means a silkier coat — and best of all, less shedding.
Promising review: "Wowwww!! I thought we were getting a lot of fur off our mini Maine coon mix with our regular cat brush, but I had no idea how much we were missing until I bought this comb! Bella is visibly sleeker and happier after two good de-shedding combing sessions. The best part is that she LOVED it, which says a lot, because she typically will only allow a few swipes of the brush at a time. But with this comb, she even let me get her BELLY fur!!! For a cat who rarely likes being touched for more than 10 seconds, that is incredible! 5 out of 5 stars, telling everyone I know about this comb!!" —RebeccaGet it from Amazon for $14.97.
A Briotech spray that uses hypochlorous acid, an ingredient found naturally in our white blood cells, to help strengthen your skin barrier and soothe rashes, sunburns, rosacea, eczema, and other skin irritations. It's similar to certain spendier refresh sprays, but without the cute bottle tax.
A nail and cuticle oil to bring life back to your damaged nails, even if you did something really bad like — gasp! — peel off a gel manicure. Bonus: Reviewers say the oil smells amazing, so be prepared for people to compliment your "perfume."
Ogx Argan Oil of Morocco Curl-Defining Cream for curls so bouncy you'll be jumping for joy (and to show them off). The argan oil-boosted formula moisturizes and tames frizz while adding a level of volume and shine you'd normally expect from a much higher price point.
A Pikk-it tool offering a quick solution to one of life's little miseries: wondering why your vacuum isn't sucking (in a good way) and discovering that the brush is completely cocooned in loose hair. This handy tool will free your roller from its hairy prison so it can proceed with...picking up more hair. Sorry, "vacuum doesn't work" isn't an excuse to avoid cleaning anymore!
An immunity-boosting allergy supplement so your itchy dog can finally find some relief. These soft chews deliver a dose of probiotics and other nutrients to help improve immune function, aide digestion, and promote healthy skin. Bonus: They add a nice shine to your dog's coat.
Remember to consult your vet before trying new supplements.Promising review: "Absolutely the best product. It saved my itchy goldendoodle! We tried changing food, medicated shampoo, fish oil, everything you can imagine... nothing worked long-term. He was itching his face so badly he would make himself bleed. Had sores and scabs all over his face and neck. I bought these because they had good reviews and I was desperate. It changed his life! He no longer scratches AT ALL! His coat looks great and all of his sores are healed. He's the happiest he's been which makes me a very happy momma. He is also very picky and never eats treats... he eats these every time so that's an added bonus!" —Darcie NationGet them from Amazon for $24.97+ (available in three sizes and four flavors).
A pack of carborundum sponges — YES, the stuff they make bulletproof vest plates out of — because tough jobs require tough solutions. Just dip one of these in water and start scouring — the nano-particles will cut through intense grease, grime, and stuck-on food bits when all other earthly measures to keep your pots clean have failed.
A box of Color Catcher sheets to prevent the dreaded "all my clothes are now pink from this one stray red sock" debacle. These handy sheets are designed to grab any dye that leaks or bleeds so you can keep enjoying your white tees.
A crack weeder tool if your home looks like it's trying out to star in the next season of The Last of Us. The L-shaped head can sneak into tight spaces and tear out the weeds, moss, and stubborn roots that have rudely taken up residence in your sidewalk.
A cruelty-free Essence Lash Princess lengthening mascara that's lightweight, won't transfer, doesn't smudge, and lasts all day — oh and makes your eyelashes look like tall, beautiful skyscrapers. Why Essence only charges $5 for such an S-tier mascara is beyond me, but we're all grateful.
Or E.l.f Lash Xtndr Tubing Mascara, which creates tubing around your lashes to make them appear longer, thicker, and darker. The lightweight "extensions" won't smudge or weigh down your actual lashes and — best of all — they fall right off when you wash your face. Priceless!
A Tibet Almond scratch remover stick that you can apply like ChapStick for your furniture. The colorless balm can help hide light scratches, watermarks, and water stains from wood, bamboo, glass, and more. Just open the can, remove the wrapper, and start rubbing the stick on unsightly marks.
A tube of Roc retinol night cream possibly imbued with time traveler magic, because it will feel like you're turning back the hands of time when you go to sleep each night. OK, maybe it won't be that dramatic, but the shea butter and squalane will hydrate, and the retinol will work hard to smooth and possibly reverse some signs of aging. This reviewer says it's a great alternative to prescription retinol.
Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray renowned in the parenting community thanks to its uncanny ability to erase stains from most fabrics in record time, all without harsh ingredients like chlorine, sulfates, or perfumes. Just spritz some on spilled juice, melted Popsicles, chocolate (hopefully), and more to watch them go *poof* and disappear.
A mint-flavored teeth-whitening pen that's way more convenient than a painful trip to the dentist or an annoying attempt at the strips. Just brush your teeth with the bristled pen whenever you have a minute to work through stains and discoloration (without sensitivity, according to 800 5-star reviewers).
A roll of scar tape, aka silicone sheets that mimic the skin's barrier, locking in moisture and preventing the excessive healing that could lead to scarring. Bonus: Some reviewers have used the tape as a short-term measure to reduce the appearance of fine lines — it temporarily smoothes the skin by keeping it taut overnight.
Mielle's Rosemary Mint strengthening oil, a TikTok-hall-of-famer that almost 80,000 5-star reviews confirm is worth the hype. The biotin-infused serum can help strengthen hair and encourage new growth, leaving hair feeling fuller. Reviewers say it's helped with everything from receding hairlines to sparse eyebrows — who knew something so effective was just sitting on a drugstore shelf this whole time?
A container of oatmeal paw butter that'll soothe and relieve your dog's cracked, dry paws. Its eco-friendly formula is pH-balanced so it's safe for pets, even if licked or swallowed. *seriously considers licking it myself to see if it really tastes like oatmeal*
Promising review: "This stuff smells so good! It smoothed my dog's paw pads the next day. It felt so soft! This is a miracle I love this product and it's a great price! You get a good amount of product. Thank you so much. This has helped my pups so much!" —SamiGet it from Amazon for $15.05.
Juno & Co.'s Clean 10 Cleansing Balm made with a blend of pearl barley and vitamin E to completely obliterate every speck of makeup on your face. Seriously, you'll feel so fresh and baby-faced, you'll wonder if that eyeliner was really as smudge-proof as you previously thought.
A Howard Products Feed-N-Wax wood polish and conditioner to give your furniture an impossibly lustrous shine previously never seen in your home. The carnauba wax and beeswax enhance and protect your wood from drying out, so you can keep your great-grandmother's rocking chair in tip-top shape with just a few swipes.
Etude Dear Darling Water Tint, a smudge-proof lip tint and blush offering such a delicate pop of color, you'll wonder why you ever bothered with lipstick or powdered blush. Reviewers love that it's buildable, doesn't transfer, and works better than pricier brands.
A shoe stretch spray if you have a pair of gorgeous loafers or sandals you love but never wear...because of the agonizing pain that comes with it. This spray will gradually stretch them out without staining or fading and is likely more effective than the freezer trick.
A roll of 10M wood grain tape perfect for frameless mirrors that could use a little more panache. The waterproof adhesive is easy to apply and does a convincing impression of wood grain. When you're ready for a change, the tape peels off easily.
A reviewer-loved scar gel made with panthenol to help encourage skin regeneration and allantoin to moisturize and help speed up the healing process. The formula even works on older scars, and customers have also used it to soothe burns, sunburns, and tattoos.
An easy-to-apply, one-hour self-tanner that's cheaper yet more effective than most competitors. The vegan formula is easy to blend without streaks or uneven patches, which makes it a hit with beginners (36,000+ positive ratings and counting). While the tan may be instant, the fade is nice and gradual.
A TikTok-loved lip plumper set with day and night serums that work together to give your pout a boost. Use the minty one at night to hydrate and smooth, and then the tingly ginger one to give your lips a little more volume.
Fruit and veggie wash because just rinsing with water doesn't feel like enough and using actual soap feels like too much. This spray is the middle ground and helps safely remove wax, soil, and handling residue.
Promising review: "This stuff is great and I have ordered it several times. In the past, I just rinsed fruit or vegetables, but I was at the grocery store recently and saw a very cute kid touching all the fruit. He also had a runny nose and I just thought, 'better remember to really wash the fruit when I get home.' The great thing about Veggie Wash is you can feel the wax film wash off of certain fruit. It really does a great job of cleaning and doesn't leave any odd smell or taste. As I said, I've bought this before and make sure my kitchen always has a spray bottle nearby." —Me in SoCalGet three spray bottles from Amazon for $25.86.
A hair-lightening spray to brighten up hair by TWO shades or more! Spritz a little of this citrus and chamomile spray onto damp hair, then activate it with heat-styling tools. I recommend blow drying and hitting it with a curling iron or straightener for the best results. Over 7,000 5-star raters love it because it's less harsh than bleach and even works on dark hair.

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Buzz Feed
4 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
27 Amazon Furniture Items That Have Great Reviews
A five-tier open storage shoe rack to stop everyone from falling over the rogue shoes in the entryway. It's super narrow so it's great for tiny apartments and isn't a boring eyesore like other basic shoe racks. It can hold around 16 pairs of most size shoes (it can hold slightly fewer shoes if they are larger sizes).Promising review: "Great product! I am impressed with the quality of the whole package. Design, sturdiness, ease of assembly, good instructions included." —Amazon CustomerPrice: $39.99+ (available in two sizes and two colors; also available in a 4-tier version) A wicker papasan swivel chair made for curling up in. It looks like the perfect reading chair to me, but I also wouldn't blame you if you took a nap in it. Promising review: "Absolutely love this chair! The cushion is very comfortable- great for sinking in to read, watch TV, play on the Wii, or even nap if you are shorter like me. My nieces and nephew climbed all over it and it didn't break, very sturdy. It even spins completely, which was a happy surprise. Worth the money!" —Karen Price: $153.70+ (available in 15 colors) Or an outdoor hanging chaise lounge complete with an umbrella to keep you shaded. This chair + you + your "to be read" pile = a match made in heaven. Promising review: "I love this chair. The navy blue matched our other patio furniture and looked awesome. I love that it swings. So relaxing. I find myself reading outside much more often. Also, reached out to customer service regarding a question, and they responded very quickly. I would definitely recommend this chair!" —aubreyPrice: $197.19+ (available in 15 colors) Speaking of TBR piles, a five-tier bookshelf because, if you're anything like me, your collection is simply totally out of control and you need somewhere to organize your 435 unread books. Promising review: "I was looking around for a bookshelf for my under-the-stairs reading nook, and I came across this one. It was so easy to assemble; it took no time at all. I love the look of it, and it's very sturdy to hold all my books and decorations." —TiaPrice: $158.99+ (available in four colors) A wood-topped kitchen cart for those who are desperately craving some more counter space. Plus, you can wheel it wherever you need it to be! Promising review: "This kitchen cart is exactly what I was looking for — good storage and added workspace while still looking nice and easily tucking out of the way. It has clean, classic lines, sturdy construction, and serious versatility. I feel it's a real steal for the price, and I know I'll get a lot of use out of it. Overall, it's a great piece for a great price. I'm a happy customer!" — Price: $267.99+ (available in four colors) An electric, adjustable-height standing desk because if you're still working from home (read: your bed) it's about time you get an actual desk. Plus, you can place a walking pad underneath this game-changing desk, meaning you can get your steps in while sending your emails. Promising review: "It is sturdy which is exactly what I had been looking for, when erasing something it won't move at all. All the parts were included, and it fits just right in my room. The color is amazing and it is long enough to have my computer, an ipad and some papers. Extremely comfortable and it took about 2 hours to build but directions were clear so it was not too hard." —SolPrice: $94.99+ (available in six sizes and seven colors) A dining room buffet cupboard with two cabinets and room for nine wine bottles. It's so stylish and versatile that you can use it to store your tableware or as a bar cart. Promising review: "Very sturdy. Great quality. It looks great in my dining room, which we recently remodeled. Compared to others, this is exceptionally priced." —Amazon Customer Price: $139.99 (available in two colors) A vintage-inspired rattan sideboard for, let's face it, hiding away all of the things that don't really have a designated home. Reviewers say it's comparable to a more expensive designer piece, and it'll look so cute in any space. Promising review: "This piece was a beautiful addition to my small apartment. I am using it as a microwave stand, and a liquor cabinet below. I put it together by myself in less than two hours. It's modern and feels sturdy. Highly recommend!" —Lindsay AmosPrice: $159.99 (also available in the sizes/configurations) A stunning makeup vanity set complete with a lightbulb mirror because your life's a movie and you're the main character. There's plenty of storage space, and it even comes with a cushioned stool. Promising review: "I absolutely love this vanity! I have a bad back and this table is perfect to keep my back from hurting while standing to do my hair and makeup. Although I didn't place the lights in the exact place per instructions. It does provide ample light. I would definitely recommend this vanity to anyone." —P. KnightPrice: $79.99 (available in four colors) A wall-mounted medicine cabinet for storing all your bits and bobs. No more balancing your skincare and toothpaste on the edge of that already-cluttered (or nonexistent) bathroom counter. Promising review: "Absolutely love this cabinet; I assembled this on my own (50-year-old mom, aka Nanna). It was very easy; it only took me a couple of hours. It has a whole lot more storage than I had anticipated, very pleased!!!!! If you're trying to decide, trust me, you need to choose this one, you won't be sorry!!" —Karen KeithPrice: $66.99+ (available in eight colors and packs of two) A dining table, chairs, and bench set so you can gather 'round for an intimate dinner party, even in the smallest of spaces. To truly help you save room, the bench comes with shelf space on the bottom. Double-duty furniture at its finest! Promising review: "Don't let the shipping charges change your mind! Even with the cost of shipping, this is the perfect table setup, especially for an apartment or a studio! It's wonderfully made. The assembly is even easy for me! It's sturdy, and it looks great! It tucks away up against a wall nicely to allow for more space, then is easily pulled out when you need it for guests, dining, or work area! Literally, everybody who has walked into my apartment (even the apartment manager!) has exclaimed how much they love this table! Look no further, you've found what you have been searching for!" —Cindy GarrettPrice: $109.99+ (available in three finishes) A sectional sofa for all of your lounging needs. You can move the seats around every which way you like, and some of the seats even lift up to reveal some sneaky storage space. Promising review: "Absolutely loving this couch! It was easy to assemble and convenient to put into place. We've got three small dogs, and it's holding up amazingly well with them playing on it. The texture of the fabric doesn't show any dog nail marks, and it's been a breeze to wipe up. It did take a short while to break the cushions in for comfort because it's pretty stiff foam, but it's now super comfortable and I expect it to last us for years and years. I purchased the extended warranty and love the fact that if I have any issues with it, it's covered, and we can replace individual pieces if needed. The storage in each piece is what I've been searching for for years now!" —SusanPrice: $1,044.99+ (available in five sizes/syles and four colors) A live-edge wooden bench to give your space a nature-chic vibe in the most versatile way. Sit on it, store things on it, rest your feet on it — you can even use it as a coffee table, entryway seat, or at the foot of your bed. The best part? A lil' wear and tear will make it look *even* better. Promising review: "This table is heavy, strong, and easy to put together. It's not wimpy; it's solid. The legs are a strong metal made to support the weight of the wood. The wood is beautifully finished, smooth, and I love the live-edge look. It looks awesome on our patio. I'm very pleased with this purchase. Great value for the dollar!" —Carol $129.99+ (available in three sizes) A four-piece patio set because 'tis the season for backyard BBQs and garden get-togethers. There are two sofas, a storage box, and coffee tables that can also act as a stool, so you have basically everything you need to host your guests this summer. Promising review: "So thrilled with this furniture; clear assembly instructions and size is perfect for under a 10x10 gazebo! I did not expect the oh so comfy pillows!! Pleasant surprise. Also, this came with a cover so do not purchase one! Still don't know about durability but this is a perfect set for our needs. The box for cushions is very roomy and has a liner to keep them clean and dry. Highly recommend." —Amazon CustomerPrice: $379 (available in two colors) A round two-tier coffee table to give your living space some ~curve~ appeal. You can choose from four different finishes, so it can seamlessly blend in with your existing decor. Promising review: "Just what I was looking for. It warms a vacant spot, and my stacked coffee table books look awesome. I'm very happy with the purchase. Sturdy, yet lightweight, makes the table a great value 😊." —Julie A. CharettePrice: $159.99 (available in four colors) A floor lamp that'll help brighten things up without having to switch on the main light. It's dimmable and fully adjustable so you can choose the intensity based on your ~aesthetic.~ Promising review: "I've had this lamp for a little over a month now, and I was honestly surprised how great it is! It was super simple to put together, and the base is heavy enough so my cats never knock it over. I like the dimmable knob feature, which is easily accessible and so much classier than the lamps with a chain or a button. It really makes my apartment feel like home! 10 out of 10." —Andrea CareyPrice: $36.99+ (available in 14 colors) A classic console table for giving guests a stylish welcome in your entryway. It'll look its best when displayed with plant friends, candles, family photos, and all those coffee table books that you've no intention of ever reading. Promising review: "I am so pleased with this table. It is better than I expected. I bought the yellow table and it is as described: bright yellow and very sturdy. It was easy for my husband to put together. I would highly recommend." —GailPrice: $58.28+ (available in 16 colors) An industrial-style ladder shelf that'll store all of your favorite knick-knacks. It has a 4.7-star rating for its design and durability, so if you've been contemplating some new shelving, this is your sign to hit the purchase button. Promising review: "Metal is heavy duty. Cool industrial black. The shelves are super nice and don't scuff or dent easily! Fairly easy to put together! Super sturdy! Gives the perfect look I was going for! Don't hesitate to purchase; the quality is great!! I would rebuy in a heartbeat! I'm so glad I did!" —Just a PersonPrice: $109.99+ (available in two sizes and two colors) A faux leather futon sofa to bring in all of the luxury and glamor of a *real* leather couch without the price tag. It comes in loads of different colors and the ridged detailing gives it a little somethin' extra. Promising review: "It's not too hard for me, and not too soft for me. Li like that I can lower one arm rest to lay on it comfortably but also keep them off for just sitting. The size is great for my small space and the faux leather has a nice feel. My cats love sleeping on it too." —Daniel SederquistPrice: $170.99+ (available in seven colors) A rolling vintage-style bar cart because who says happy hour can only take place at a restaurant? It has mirrored shelves and storage space for bottles and glasses. Get ready to make summer Fridays even more exciting! Promising review: "Lovely gold color with mirrored shelves top and bottom. Plenty of storage to add all the essentials. Great product for the price!" —ChristylinPrice: $64.58+ (available in two sizes and three colors) A set of accent chairs to add some bold, shimmery color to your bedroom, dining space, or home office — basically, anywhere that you want to have a fancy chair. With plush velvet fabric and gold detailing, they look *so* much more expensive than they actually are. Promising review: "These chairs really add to the look of my dining area and match my navy cabinetry and other accents. The velvet is so soft — not all fake crunchy-feeling like some can be! Textures can bother me, but I love the feel of these. While cushioned, the chair is fairly firm and a bit narrow. An above-average-sized person might find these a bit snug. The gold tone is obviously a little fake, with a yellow-y look to it, but it's so low it blends fine with other shades of gold that I have in the room. Well packaged, easy to assemble, and great value!" —SatchesonPrice: $118.66+ (available in five colors) A china hutch that may actually have more storage than you have things. It's an incredibly versatile piece that reviewers use for tableware, mail, glasses, bottles, toys, wine, and more. Promising review: "The picture doesn't do the hutch justice. It's a beautiful piece of furniture. It's very sturdy. It's also got a lot of storage, which I was happy about. The labeling of pieces was easy to follow, and everything aligned correctly." —LegendPrice: $287.89+ (available in five colors) A velvet ottoman for sitting, storing, and everything in between. The plush fabric gives it a luxurious finish and reviewers say that it's extremely sturdy. Promising review: "I didn't quite know what to expect when I ordered this, you never know what you're going to get sometimes. When I open this I was amazed. The quality is awesome, the velvet is so soft. It's a lot bigger than I thought it was going to be which is exciting. It's actually comfortable to sit on. It's nice and sturdy as well. All around 100% love!" —Meg RaleyPrice: $35.99+ (available in two sizes and six colors) A television stand because it's *so* much more than just a resting place for your TV. There's a bunch of storage space inside and out, and it's easy on the eyes, too. Promising review: "I love my TV stand. It took me and a very helpful toddler about an hour and 30 minutes to assemble; I think it would be better with the help of another adult because if one piece breaks, the whole stand will be ruined. It's very sturdy and adds so much elegance to my living room. I love it!!!" —Noemi GarciaPrice: $140.99+ (available in four colors) A simple yet stylish side table to amp up your space in an instant. Reviewers say that it's really easy to assemble and feels pretty sturdy for displaying books, plants, and more. Promising review: "Nice little table that was extremely easy to put together and looks nice. It's a great height for right beside a couch or chair for decor or to put a mug on. It doesn't wobble and feels pretty sturdy. I would definitely recommend this product if you're looking for a simple side table!" —Emily JohnsonPrice: $36.99+ (available in nine colors and in sets of two) A set of dresser drawers since this is the year you stop throwing all of your clean laundry on top of THE chair. These ones are — spoiler alert — made from fabric and are extremely lightweight, but you can't tell me that they don't look just as good as wooden drawers. Promising review: "I've been looking for a dresser or storage unit for some time. I ordered this one not expecting much but I was pleasantly surprised by how much it can hold. If you're looking for storage that's not bulky but can hold a lot, this is it!" —Lynette WorthyPrice: $47.50+ (available in 18 colors) An upholstered platform bed frame aka the foundation of a great night's sleep. The tufted detailing on the headboard makes it look so chic and, according to the over 38,500 5-star reviews, it's very, very well made. Is it bedtime yet? Promising review: "Purchased this to replace my Ikea bed frame. The quality is good and does not make any noise, which is the reason I got rid of the Ikea frame. Assembly was super easy. My nephew and I tackled it in 30 mins. Bed now feels more comfortable and looks great." —Armando CastellanosPrice: $129.99+ (available in sizes twin–king and six colors)


CNET
7 hours ago
- CNET
This Portable Induction Cooktop Is the Hero That Got Me Through a Kitchen Remodel
Weeks before we started our kitchen remodel, we asked for advice from friends and neighbors about how they survived the experience. But nothing truly prepares you for the daily inconvenience of not having a fully functioning kitchen. While my kids would've voted to eat at a local taqueria whenever possible, I was determined to continue cooking at home -- and make better than passable meals everyone would eat. After a failed attempt at using a microwave (I don't want to talk about it), I bought a Duxtop portable induction cooktop burner, put it on the workbench in the garage and made every meal on it through the rest of the remodel. The Duxtop portable cooktop typically goes for $139, but right now you can get it for about $10 off at Amazon. How does an induction cooktop burner work? I didn't really understand till I got one, but an induction cooktop generates heat by creating a magnetic field that flows into a metal pan. Not all metal pans will work -- my aluminum pans remained as cold as my disconnected gas range. Instead, you need a pan or pot made of a magnetic metal like cast iron or stainless steel. I have several enameled cast iron pots that worked great, and I bought a Tramontina stainless steel 10-inch pan for frying. I started simply, making pasta, using sauce out of a jar, but by the end of the remodel, I was making Baja fish tacos from scratch and homemade Bolognese sauce. And I was surprised how much I loved cooking on it. My family started avoiding me while I was in the garage cooking because I'd boast about how amazing induction was. "Look!" I'd tell them. "The cooktop stays cool!" Or, "Check this out! When I take the pot off the cooktop, it pauses heating!" During a kitchen-warming party we threw for our neighbors after our new kitchen was finished, I learned our friend across the street had the same love for her induction cooktop. We huddled like allies, devoted to this magnetic object. Now that the kitchen is done, I'm thinking of ways I can keep using the cooktop. Maybe, when I'm cooking a big meal and need an extra burner, I can set it up on the counter. Maybe I can use it outdoors during a cookout. Or maybe I can give it to one of my kids as they set up their own home. I actually love it so much, when it comes time to swap out our gas range, I'm going to get an induction cooktop. For more recommendations about kitchen staples we've personally tested and loved, read about our favorite cookware sets and our favorite chef's knife.

Business Insider
8 hours ago
- Business Insider
The best grills
Grilling is a great way to make delicious food while spending time outdoors, but it can be tricky to sort through the hundreds of available models to find the best grill for your backyard. Whether you need a travel-friendly grill for camping or want to become the local pitmaster, we've tested top-rated grill options for every cook. From wood pellets to propane, we found that the best grills have a powerful heating element, useful design features, and can withstand outdoor wear and tear. For maximum flame-fired flavor, our reporters have used the Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill for years. The bottom charcoal basin, built-in cleaning system, and three available sizes make the Weber Kettle a simple and enduring classic. We also love the Traeger Woodridge Pro, a pellet smoker that's great for just starting out: you can set the temperature with a dial and still get the wood-fired taste and texture. Our top picks for the best grills Best pellet grill: Traeger Woodridge Pro - See at Amazon Types of grills Pros Cons Good for Charcoal grills Flame-fired flavor and more budget-friendly Difficult to regulate temperature Experienced grillers Gas grills Beginner-friendly and easy to maintain Doesn't add a smoky, barbecue flavor Everyone Barbecue smokers Best way to cook low and slow Steep learning curve Experienced grillers Pellet smokers Hands-off smoking with easily managed heat Not as rich of a smoked flavor Everyone Portable grills Compact and easy to set up Smaller cooking area Travelers Flat-top grills Huge cook surface, great as an extension of your indoor kitchen A "grill" in fuel-type only, more like a large cooktop Everyone Best pellet grill The Traeger Woodridge Pro grill is a true do-it-all pellet grill. Its 970-square-inch cooking space is versatile enough to cook family meals during the week or invite a large crowd over on the weekends. It can hold a remarkable number of racks of ribs. Best of all, it has solid build quality and heat insulation, which makes it great at holding a steady temperature. All of the grills in the new Traeger Woodridge series perform well at their main task, but the Woodridge Pro stands out because it gets the bulk of the features at a reasonable, affordable cost. Specifically, we really like its 24-pound hopper capacity, wood pellet sensor, extended prep area, and four wheels for easy transport. Like most other newer Traeger grills, the Woodridge Pro features WiFi connectivity so you can monitor temperatures and timers remotely. The mobile app is sleek and easy to use. For those who need a little inspiration, the app's recipes are easy to browse and can be sent to the grill when you're ready to cook. As capable as wood pellet smokers are for making lots of different meals, the Woodridge Pro's super smoke mode is a powerful feature for really infusing meat with flavor. It's a perfect first grill, but it's advanced enough for the professionals. Best BBQ smoker Cooking with hardwood and charcoal requires a lot of time and attention. Smokers require a learning curve, but the Char-Griller Grand Slam has built-in features to make it easier. A smoker constructed from thick steel is imperative to keep heat in and withstand elements when left outside. The Char-Griller Grand Slam is a barrel-shaped smoker made from heavy-duty steel with a large cooking area. This smoker can be used for both grilling veggies and meat as well as low and slow-smoking sessions. It's the top pick in our barbecue smokers guide for a traditional offset smoke. The large charcoal basket and firebox allow you to load the smoker with enough fuel to last for hours, maintaining an even temperature throughout the cooking process. There are three thermometer ports to monitor temperatures. When it comes time for cleaning, there's a grease clean-up valve and ash pan that can be easily dumped. Best gas grill Gas grills are ideal for home cooks who want to grill without a steep learning curve. Weber is the gold standard in gas grills and earned four of the five top spots in our guide to the best gas grills. The new Spirit E-325 has a midsize cooktop and two folding side tables, making it great for families and small groups. The grill has three powerful burners under "Flavorizer Bars" that give you perfectly even char. Inside is a warming rack to keep food warm while the rest of your meal cooks, or toast buns for burgers and hot dogs. This grill also has a grease management system for easy clean-up, with a removable tray that catches drippings to avoid grill flare-ups. It's easy to hook the Spirit up to a propane tank, allowing for consistent temperature maintenance while still achieving that fired flavor. While gas grills come in a wide variety of sizes, this medium-sized option from Weber offers enough cooking surface for a variety of meals without taking up too much space in your yard. Check out more of our picks for the best gas grills. Best charcoal grill You won't find a better balance of durability and great cooking ability than the Weber Kettle Charcoal Grill — we've had this grill for years, and it still works as well as the day we first tested it. The design of Weber's original kettle grill has held strong for 70 years, making it one of the best grills year after year and the top pick in our guide to charcoal grills. The circular grill is simple yet efficient, with a bottom charcoal basin for even heating. The design features vents at the top and bottom, which allow for temperature adjustment. Pair it with one of the best charcoal chimney starters, and you're all set. We recommend the 22-inch Original Kettle Grill from Weber, but 18-inch and 26-inch models are also available. While the 22-inch isn't a large capacity grill, it still has a generous cooking area to grill multiple steaks or enough burgers for a small group. When it comes time to clean, you can use the built-in cleaning system to sweep ashes into the bottom catcher. Once you're ready to cook, stock up on the best charcoal for grilling. Our guide to the best charcoal grills has options for upgrades, barrel-style, and more. Best portable grill The Weber Traveler gas grill makes it easy to grill on the go. This portable grill has a folding design with two wheels that can maneuver through sand, gravel, and grass. It takes less than 10 minutes to break it down and set it up, allowing you to store it for backyard use, take it camping, or use it at a tailgating party. Although it only has one burner, it features a decent-sized cooking area and reaches high enough temperatures for roasting meat and veggies. The grill is designed to use small propane tanks for fuel, but you can switch to standard-sized propane tanks with an adapter. This is one of the best grills for beginners because of the low investment and easy learning curve. Best kamado Ceramic Kamado grills originated about 3,000 years ago, and the design is still used today. We test the best Kamado grills alongside other charcoal grills, and our top pick is the Kamado Joe Classic II. Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe are the top brands we've tested in the category, with the Kamado Joe Classic II just edging out the BGE. The quality of the build is essential on any grill, and an exceptional level of craftsmanship goes into the Kamado Joe. It has a sturdy frame, multiple grate levels, an ash catchment system, and more. Beginners may find the Kamado grill easy to overheat — even experienced grillers should expect some trial and error to figure out the right amount of charcoal. That challenge is part of what makes this grill so special: once it gets hot, it stays hot longer than other types of grills. You can cook between 225 and 750 degrees Fahrenheit while maintaining consistent heat. How we test grills This guide to the best grills is made up of our top recommendations from our individual grill guides. For more details on our tests with each grill, check out our full guides and read the "how we tested" section. Type of grill Cooking tests Other evaluation points Charcoal grill Zucchini, BBQ chicken, and steak for doneness and even cooking. Assembly, ease of use, cleaning, and quality of materials. Pellet smoker Pork shoulder, chicken drumsticks, and zucchini for even cooking, doneness, and flavor. Assembly, quality of materials, ease of use, ability to control temperature, production of smoke ring, and ease of cleaning. Gas grill Burgers, steak, zucchini, barbecue chicken, baked beans for even cooking and doneness. Assembly, ease of use, materials, and ease of cleaning. Barbecue smoker Pork shoulder, chicken drumsticks, and zucchini for even heating, doneness, flavor, and smoke ring. Assembly, quality of materials, ease of use, ability to control temperature, production of smoke ring, and ease of cleaning. Grill accessories We've found some essential grill accessories in our grill testing and personal barbecue experience. Of course, you won't need the best smoker pellets if you're using a gas grill, so focus on the type of grill you want and add the relevant extras to your cart. Grill FAQs How do you clean your grill? Cleaning your grill is essential for grilling safety and keeping your grill in great shape for years of use. One of the simplest ways to clean your grill is to use a grill brush that will do all of the hard work for you. Using the best grill brush constructed with quality bristles and an easy-to-hold handle will make quick work of cleaning your grill grates. For harder, stuck-on food, you can also use a grill scraper. How do you remove rust from a grill? Despite efforts to avoid it, rusting can happen on even the best grills. To clean it, start with a cool grill. Use a good-quality grill brush or a grill brick to scrub off rust. If you're trying to clean stubborn rust, you can make a paste by mixing water and baking soda. Apply the paste to your grill grates, allow it to sit for 10 minutes, and then scrub.