Microplastics on the menu? No thanks — snag this $30 steel bento box from Amazon instead
They're everywhere. In the air, the water, and maybe even in your kids' lunchbox!
Microplastics might have some of us doomscrolling for days, but that doesn't mean they're impossible to avoid. By swapping out certain household products with plastic-free alternatives, families can limit they're exposure to these dangerous particles (at least, that's what the experts recommend).
Take this $30 stainless steel bento box, for example. With back-to-school season in full swing, now's the perfect time to upgrade to a lunch box that's durable, eco-friendly, and 100% BPA-free. Even better? It's currently nearly 25% off on Amazon — making it easy to snag one for every member of the family. Sleek and modern, it's a far cry from those flimsy lunch sacks that end up in the trash every day.
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Microplastics aren't just all the buzz on social media. Several experimental studies have indicated that microplastic exposure can lead to a myriad of health complications, including inflammation-related diseases, increased oxidative stress, and even neurotoxicity.
To put it into perspective, it is estimated that the average person can eat, drink, or breathe between 78,000 and 211,000 microplastic particles every year.
Don't want to be one of those people? Perhaps, it's time to go plastic-free.
Amazon
Microplastics shouldn't be seasoning your salad. The UPTRUST Stainless Steel Bento Lunch Box is the perfect way to level up your lunch game. Designed with durable, BPA-free stainless steel, it offers five compartments to keep your meals neat and just the right temperature.
'My main motivation for purchase was to find a plastic-free option that would withstand through the school year. It's easy to clean, looks sleek, and fits more than it seems,' one happy reviewer explained. 'My 11-year-old says it 'doesn't make her lunch look lame,' which is high praise. I love knowing they're not eating off BPA-laced plastic every day.'
Aside from the cool-factor, this stainless steel lunch box is also leakproof, dishwasher-safe, and tough enough to survive when your kid chucks their backpack off after getting home from school.
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
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Buzz Feed
28 minutes ago
- Buzz Feed
33 Products You'll Want For Your Embarrassing Problems
A teeth-whitening pen if you want a brighter smile without the irritation of whitening strips that slip and slide all over your teeth. You can use each pen ~20 times and should expect your teeth to lighten four to eight shades. Promising review: "I have only used the two original pens that I purchased and can already see an improvement. I am older than 60 and drink coffee daily and red wine weekly." —vicki houskaGet a two-pack from Amazon for $18.95 (also available individually and in packs of four). A set of Kegel weights to not only help with incontinence but also potentially make sex easier, less painful, and more enjoyable. These are especially great for people who've just given birth, though anyone can benefit from strengthening their pelvic floor muscles. Read more about Kegel exercises at Cleveland review: "Since starting, my bladder control has significantly improved. I am now able to sneeze or cough without peeing myself. Yes, that's right. I am able to hold my pee longer, which means I can actually make it to the bathroom without dribbling on myself. The best part is that just a few short weeks into the program, you will have results you can feel. I think every woman who has ever had kids should try this out. The overall quality of my life has improved. Ditch your panty liners, stop the embarrassing dribbles, and no more mad dashes to the restroom because of a weak bladder. Even my sex life has improved; I have control of those pelvic muscles now. Just remember to wash the weights before and after each use with an antibacterial spray, and allow time to air dry before putting them away. I say air dry because if you wipe them dry with a cloth, you run the risk of giving yourself a bladder infection or urinary tract infection, and those are no laughing matter. Easy to use, easy to clean, stores away quickly." —Lady TauberGet a set of six weights from Amazon for $49.99. An eco-friendly hard water stain-remover that'll help you wipe away soap scum and residue in your shower in half the time it normally takes you to clean. It's biodegradable, so the scent won't singe your nose hairs and make you gag. Plus, it's safe enough to use on just about anything — including shower glass, tile, granite, stainless steel, marble, brass, and porcelain. Promising review: "I am amazed!!!! I bought this product because of the reviews, and wow!!! I just bought my home, and my water is from a new well, which stained my toilets and I was so embarrassed when anyone would go to a brand new house with a dirty, stained toilet, but this did the job!!!! I have used many products, and this worked perfectly!!! You need to do a bit of scrubbing, but it's all worth it. Extremely happy with the results!!!" —Luis RoqueGet it from Amazon for $19.99. Some acne patches for those days when a pimple pops up at the *worst* possible moment. They absorb all the gunk lurking in your whiteheads and create a barrier to prevent you from picking or popping. And they're sheer enough that you can wear them out in public. A Squatty Potty, because a bout of constipation shouldn't leave you down in the ~dumps~. Squatting changes the angle of your anal canal, opening it up so it's easier for things to exit. Read more about constipation relief at home, including using a squatting position, at Cleveland review: "I have known about this product for years since seeing it on Shark Tank. I know lots of people who use it and always thought to myself, 'I don't have problems, so I don't need it.' Well, a pelvic physical therapist suggested it to me to help with my issue with a large prostate. The results are pretty amazing, not only for the issue I had but for clearing my bowels, which was an issue I didn't think I had a problem with. The best thing is that I used to wait until I couldn't hold it any longer. When using this product, I can go even if I don't feel an urgent urge. I strongly recommend it!" —L HudsonIf you want more Squatty Potty content before making the best purchase of your life, check out our Squatty Potty it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in two sizes). A Tushy 3.0 bidet attachment if you want to pamper your patootie. Not only will it help you use less TP, but it also just leaves you feeling cleaner after you go. Promising review: "How have I gone so long living like a barbarian, wiping my dirty bottom with the ground up corpses of dead conifers?! I can't go back! I won't go back!" —Cale it from Amazon and Tushy for $129+ (available in nine colors). And don't forget a before-you-go toilet spray to hide any evidence. Even if you're one of those weirdly confident people who can poop in a house full of people without issue, having this in your bathroom for others can calm nervous pooers. Promising review: "New Year's Day 2019 I wake up at my friend's house after a night of partying to the smell of fresh coffee and bacon frying in the kitchen. So I get up and say good morning to everyone, get me some coffee, and think to myself, 'Hey! The entire house smells like bacon. It's probably an opportune time for me to 'drop the kids off at the pool' because no one will notice anything I'm making in the bathroom over what Michelle is making in her kitchen.' Anyway, I look on top of the bowl and there's this stuff. For added protection against embarrassment, I pump a couple of sprays into the bowl and do my stuff. Yup now I totally smell bacon and oranges, but not a whiff of anything else that might cause my friends to ask me if I need to see a doctor or something. So now I keep a bottle with me just in case I'm in one of those situations when I have, you know, a brown dog scratching at the back door, but don't want anyone to know that I'm letting him out." —D. Grieco it from Amazon for $4.99+ (available in a variety of sizes). A cuticle oil that'll restore your shredded nails after a gel mani. A combination of sweet almond oil, vitamin E, and jojoba softens the cuticle and strengthens your claws so you'll be proud to show them off. A tonsil stone remover so you can *finally* treat the root cause of your bad breath. This tool has a built-in LED light so you can easily locate the tonsil stone. Plus it also comes with a syringe to help you wash out the pocket the tonsil stone left behind. If you suspect you have tonsil stones (also called tonsilloliths), talk to your dentist or doctor! They can perform a physical exam or imaging scan and deliver a review: "I'm in my early 30s and just started getting tonsil stones. Until a few months ago, I never even knew what these things were! I've been struggling with cotton swabs to fully remove the stones, but couldn't get rid of them, and they would just come back within the week. I received this and investment ever. No struggle holding my phone as a flashlight while awkwardly posing myself in front of my badly lit bathroom mirror. I sat comfortably at my vanity, used one hand, and removed the whole stone in less than a minute. Why did I not know this was a thing? Why have I been struggling? Get it! Stop struggling, suffering, and awkwardly dealing with this ridiculous me." —WrenGet it from Amazon for $9.93+ (available in two colors and a two-pack). A jetted tub cleaner, because who knows when the last time you cleaned it was. (I hate to break it to you, but you're probably chillaxing in dirty water.) This cleanser is made to flush out soap scum, body oils, and those black flakes that gunk up your tub's jets. Promising review: "They don't call this Oh Yuk! for no reason. I previously used Jacuzzi's two-part system, and this worked sooo much better. I was totally embarrassed, not to mention grossed out, at how much funk came out. It was NASTY! It definitely cleans your tub. You will probably have to clean the sides of your tub after it's finished because of how much stuff might come out. I swear I clean my tub on a regular basis, but I was amazed at how much better this worked. Highly recommend!" —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $18.73. A pack of dishwasher cleaning tablets if you're a little embarrassed every time you hand your guest a cloudy glass. These tablets dissolve hard water buildup and limescale so your dishes and cups emerge sparkling and clean. A Home Chef subscription to make cooking dinner fun, exciting, and easy. No more sad bowls of ramen or aimlessly walking down aisles at the grocery store waiting for dinner inspiration to hit! We're talking Instagram-worthy meals that are as affordable as they are delicious and all the ingredients you need shipped straight to your door. Some foaming toilet tablets that'll make your dream of never having to touch a dirty toilet brush again a reality. It's basically a sanitizing bath bomb that disinfects your toilet. A pumice cleaning stone for powering through tough rust, lime, and calcium streaks you have to explain to your S.O. are not poop stains — you swear! Give your tired arms a break and let this little guy scrub away discoloration with ease. This non-toxic cleaner is tough on dirt but gentle on porcelain so you can sit atop the listening throne you deserve. Promising review: "I have very hard water that leaves hard-water buildup and nasty stains. It's embarrassing to have guests over because the toilets are so gross! I have tried so many products and cleaning solutions — from natural essential oils to harsh chemicals so strong I was lightheaded for the rest of the day. Well, I tried out this pumice stone after reading about it in a BuzzFeed article, and honestly, the hype is real! It does take some elbow grease, but the after picture is from only 20 minutes of scrubbing, light enough that I didn't break a sweat! The stone does get used up, but I think this one should last me a couple of years at least. So if you have embarrassing toilets, try this!" —Stephanie RayGet it from Amazon for $11.99. A foot file so your heels are in sandal-ready condition. Rub gently and watch the dead skin and calluses fall like shredded cheese to reveal baby soft heels. Promising review: "I'm not one to talk about my feet. I've had circulation problems for years that are just now resolving, and that has led to deep calluses on the heel of both feet. I bought this on a whim as I have tried other products in the past with no luck. Twenty minutes later, I'm touching baby-smooth skin where there used to be deep cracks and rough broken skin. This thing is a miracle-worker, and if I could rate it 10 stars, I would." —Gully176Get it from Amazon for $9.95. A pack of earbud cleaners because you wanna clearly hear your true crime podcast. Squish the flexible square into your AirPods, peel it off, and gasp in horror at the ear goop that's been dulling the sound quality. That photo! That goop! Promising review: "I never usually write reviews but this is an exception. I've had my AirPods for over a year and when the sound quality was diminishing, I was afraid they had a short life expectancy and I would need to get a new pair! Even after using cotton buds to clean the AirPods out, I thought that was enough until my friend said there's stuff built up and hard to see, but there was nothing able to get it out! Enter this product — it literally took five minutes to clean each ear bud effectively and instantly the sound quality was as good as new! Loud, clear, less trouble connecting to my phone, etc. I really suggest giving this product. You don't need a full square to clean them, so you can pull a piece off or reuse a square with a side you haven't used! SO happy I found a solution!" —Amazon CustomerGet 12 from Amazon for $15.99. A TubShroom if your relaxing showers have turned into you standing in a puddle of water for 15 minutes because the drain is This little guy snags the hair you shed before it can collect in the pipes. Promising review: "I have long hair and recently had a baby. This means the poor tub drain is getting clogged every time we turn around, and we're spending ridiculous amounts of time with that spiky stick thing you shove down there and then pull out over and over. I figured if this even worked to catch half of my hair, then it would be worth its salt. Holy moly. When they say it catches every hair, they aren't kidding. We clean it off about twice A WEEK! And when they say it's easy to clean, they are right again. A swipe with toilet paper and the hair blob comes right off to be flushed down the toilet. I've already told so many people about this product because I love it so much. Fantastic!!!" —sasamoGet it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in five colors and in packs of two). A tube of antiperspirant hand cream to dry your hands if you suffer from hyperhidrosis (excess sweating), or if you're just nervous! Promising review: "I used this product on my 10-year-old son. He sweats A LOT on his hands. He would tell me that he was embarrassed at school and he had problems making friends. My son told me he had never shaken a hand outside of mine ever before in his life. It broke me. As a father, I knew I had to fix this. I set up an appointment with his doctor and got nowhere. The doctor said it's normal and should go away in the coming years. I asked about surgery and they said it would be around $10,000, so I started saving. Couple weeks went by and I came across this product I asked my son if he was OK with trying it and he desperately said yes. We put it on, and his hands are completely dry now. When it worked, he started practicing shaking hands and high-fives with his brother. It's been two weeks now, and it is working AMAZING." —HECTOR LORENZOGet it from Amazon for $19.95 (available in three scents and multi-packs). A collagen-coating hair treatment that's safe for all hair types and will revitalize a dry, damaged, and overprocessed mane overnight. This reparative five-minute hair mask will revive your mane and leave it soft, silky, and smooth. An antifungal tea tree balm for treating basically any somewhat embarrassing skin condition you can think of: athlete's foot, ringworm, jock itch, and even just dry skin. Promising review: "I ordered this balm on a whim as a remedy for a skin rash, and was very impressed with its effectiveness! After getting rid of my rash, I decided to try it elsewhere, and it worked wonders on dry skin areas like elbows, knees, and feet. I was blown away by how I changed my feet entirely! As a dancer, my feet have always been a war zone: dry skin, calluses, ingrown toenails, and athlete's foot (all frequent problems over the course of many years). I was always embarrassed to wear sandals or any type of shoes that would show off parts of my feet because of all the dry skin, but sometimes it couldn't be avoided. This balm has made my feet the loveliest they have been, and now I can choose any type of shoes I want to wear without embarrassment." —anengstromGet it from Amazon for $36.33. A box of wart-removing pads that you apply like bandages so you can be rid of your extra growth. Be gone, appendage! Promising review: "This stuff works! I've never had a wart in my life! At first, I thought it was a small callus, but as months went by, it was getting larger. I started to Google and realized I had a plantar wart on my thumb! Eww, embarrassing! So I got the freeze off and thought, 'This has to work!' Nope! I tried the freeze off three times and nothing! I then realized the same thing was happening on my other thumb, a small callus, but I knew that the wart had spread! Now I was desperate to get rid of them and knew I had waited too long! Bought the invisible strips and it removed my small wart in four days and my big wart in eight!! I couldn't believe it. I left strips on for two days, then pulled back the dead skin with a cuticle clipper and reapplied! My bigger wart was a little tougher to remove, and I had irritated my skin trying to cut it out, so I left it alone for a few days before reapplying the strip. By the second 48-hour treatment, it was gone! I thought my skin would be damaged, but it looks like nothing was ever there!" —Audrey 14 pads from Amazon for $7.29+ (available in two styles and in larger packs). A tub of brightening, firming, and rejuvenating eye cream because you're tired of your mom constantly asking you, "Are you getting enough sleep?" on your weekly FaceTime, even though she should darn well know that your dark circles are hereditary (thnx a lot, Mom!). Promising review: "This is the second review I've done on Amazon. I rarely go out of my way to write a review unless I'm truly amazed by the product. I have terrible sunken-in eyes (due to genetics) that can't really be fixed without fillers (which I'd never do). No matter how much sleep I get, I have bad dark circles, so I decided that I had to invest in an eye cream. I'm so glad I did! I used a cheap drugstore eye cream that really only made it look like I had water under my eyes, and it did nothing else. This eye cream is so hydrating and smooth! It really evens out my skin tone and wakes up my face in the morning! I feel so refreshed and dare I It's boosted my confidence a ton. I'm so happy with this product!" —casie ackermanGet it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in three sizes). A grout paint pen to cover up the mortifyingly large amount of dirt and grime that has fallen into the cracks. It works like a regular marker, so even the people who failed art can use it. And it beats actually having to clean! 🙃 Promising review: "I don't hate my old tile as much! My husband and I renovated our ground level into an entertaining area. The tile, on the other hand, was old and just would have cost way too much money to pull up. Needless to say, the area came out amazing. Now I don't hate the tile because the grout was so dirty, and I could not get it clean as much. I highly recommend this product. Now, when I walk downstairs, I don't cringe looking at the floor anymore. I will purchase another pen or two just to go over it later on. I'm not embarrassed by my floors anymore." —LUCYANNGet it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in two tip widths and a variety of colors). A bottle of dentist-approved mouthwash for helping reduce the severity of your swamp breath, whether it's caused by a medical issue or because you just drank coffee and orange juice. This one's made sans alcohol, so it won't burn when you swish it around your mouth. Promising review: "Why didn't I find it before? It's very embarrassing to admit, but I had very stinky breath. It did smell like s..t and I tried many products that didn't work. Just follow instructions and 'deep throat' gargle for 30 seconds or so for best results. I can say that my breath has improved by 50%, which is a huge huge difference. Morning breath is not as bad. I can talk to people with confidence and that all it counts. Thank you Amazon!!!" —Shopper5Get a pack of two from Amazon for $ You can learn more by reading my colleague's in-depth TheraBreath oral rinse deep dive. A natural shoe deodorizer spray so you don't have to wash your feet the minute you get home to get rid of the funk from your work flats. It's made with essential oils and smells like lemon and eucalyptus so you'll probably want to spray it around the rest of your house, too. Promising review: "This product WORKS! You won't be disappointed. I used to get embarrassed taking off my flats in my office because they smelled so bad, but not anymore! My work flats make my feet sweaty, and this spray helps keep the awful odors away at least four to five days (probably longer, but I was so excited I just sprayed my shoes again because I liked the smell haha!) The lemon is strong and the eucalyptus I love, so I would purchase again! Although it will likely last a while! I have a little boy who gets sweaty feet also, so I'm sure I'll soon be using this in his shoes also." —Traeannah BrownGet it from Amazon for $14.95 (available in three scents). A denture cleaner because, despite brushing your retainer each night, it's somehow coated in some weird white film. These fizzing tablets will blast away odor-causing bacteria, discoloration, and plaque from your Invisalign, retainers, dentures, night guards, and more. A box of extra strength Gas-X chewables if you know you should avoid dairy but your Friday night plans include mac 'n' cheese, nachos, and ice cream. Promising review: "Sometimes you eat something that is too rich on an empty stomach and wham — the pain, the bloating, the weird weird noises start. And then if you have this, within minutes, it helps relieve the gas, bloating, and discomfort. Taking this is nothing to be ashamed about; it happens to everyone whether they like to admit it or not." —MusicLoverGet a pack of 72 chewable tablets from Amazon for $14.48. A stainless-steel tongue scraper to banish bad bacteria and improve stinky breath. This way you won't suffer the embarrassment of someone offering you a breath mint. A pack of Schick dermaplaning razors that'll evict any unwanted stray hairs and help you conquer your fear caused by accidentally shaving off half your eyebrow in middle school, thanks to its precision cover. These itty bitty razors are great for stashing in your purse for touch-ups on the go. Promising review: "I'm a hairy gal. Hormonal problems ruled out by my physician; it's just hereditary. My cheeks, neck, forehead, and chin are covered in a fine ever-growing peach fuzz. If I cease shaving, I shall acquire a boat and thus forth be dubbed blonde beard. My mustache is darker and thicker, something I think a lot of women experience. I have been shaving for a while with a men's razor (Gillette Fusion ProGlide for reference) and shaving cream but it just couldn't give me a close enough shave. ENTER SCHICK SILK TOUCH-UP! Holy wow! I've been dry shaving my entire face and some of my neck with these and no irritation, plus it is the closest shave I have gotten. No pulling or scraping like other 'mini razors.' It's quicker than doing what I call a 'dad shave' in the shower, and I can see what I'm shaving because I'm at my makeup table and there's no shaving cream obstructing my view (I don't want to accidentally hack off the hair by my ears or forehead). Plus, I compared this to other (what I call) mini razors and it's twice the size. So very efficient for doing your whole face, easy for detailing those brows. I love this product and hope that they sell it forever. It works on my peach fuzz, mustache, and brows. If I ever get word that they are going to stop making them, I will hoard them all." —Dr. Eleanor AbernathyGet a pack of three from Amazon for $5.94 (or Subscribe & Save for $5.64/month). A clay mask for vacuuming the gunk out of your pores. It may also help reduce the frequency of your breakouts and soften your skin. Promising review: "I bought this as a last hope for cystic acne. I bought raw apple cider vinegar with the mother to mix with the clay powder because I heard that worked best for people experiencing skin problems. My skin has been a rollercoaster for the past five years. But recently, things have gotten really out of control. My self-esteem is the lowest it's been. This mask had been such a lifesaver. I'm not sure words can describe how impressed I am with this healing clay mask. Since my skin has been through hell and I've literally tried everything, it's pretty resilient, so I've been using this mask every night for the last four days. It's not nearly as drying as I thought it would be, so that hasn't been an issue. But the mask has dried up everything, and I have no new breakouts. I was so happy that I cried. If I could give this product a million stars, I would!" —Afton StAmourGet it from Amazon for $ our Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay deep dive and discover more of its many uses. A bottle of dandruff shampoo so you can banish white flakes from your scalp. It's made with ketoconazole 1%, an antifungal ingredient that'll tell your dandruff it's no longer welcome here. Read more about ketoconazole shampoo at Cleveland review: "MIRACLE PRODUCT! If you have a flaky scalp from dandruff, BUY THIS. I was about to go to the dermatologist if this stuff didn't work. Thank goodness I saved myself hundreds of dollars by giving this product a shot. I used it four of five times (over a month) and it cleared my scalp almost completely. One more use and my scalp will be 120% healed! This stuff blew my mind. Totally worth it." —chrisGet it from Amazon for $15.88. An odor-eliminating spray because you're pretty sure your houseguests think your living room smells like cat pee (you definitely think so!) since your kitty urinates in the same corner. This'll lift stains and odors fast. Plus, each spray releases bacteria that feed on the ammonia left behind after your pet's accidents, eliminating the urine completely and deterring your pet from peeing in the same spot again. Promising review: "I have six elderly cats, and a few of them oftentimes leave smelly pee puddles to register their disdain at whatever cats get 'peed off' about. It's not a litter box problem, and, although I've caught one or two of them doing it, I can't blame them all. This product works great on fresh messes as well as dried ones. After blotting up fresh pee pods, I saturate the area with Rocco & Roxie's odor remover and let it dry. For dried stinky stuff, I just saturate the area and let it dry. It has a pleasant odor and completely eliminates the ammonia odor. Believe me, I've tried all kinds of products, and this one works the best. I buy gallons now just to have on hand. It's better than smelling that awful pee!" —mona miaGet it from Amazon for $20.39+ (available in two scents). A pack of gas-neutralizing pads if your farts smell worse than the dog's (and the dog eats poop!). Each antimicrobial activated charcoal pad traps foul-smelling gas molecules so toxic toots are a thing of the past. Promising review: "My significant other has a butt that wants to violently suffocate everyone. This was originally a gag (pun intended) gift but, when used, it actually worked. Most, if not all, of the smell went away with the particularly terrible poots. We joke that we should get some more." —SunshineGet a pack of five from Amazon for $12.99.
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Vogue
2 days ago
- Vogue
A Dentist's Guide to the Best Teeth Whitening Strips
Butter yellow might be the color of the year, but not when it comes to your teeth. Stains from coffee, red wine, smoking, soda, and even tea can leave your smile looking a little too on-trend. Luckily, the best teeth whitening strips can help lift discoloration and brighten your smile, with some claiming results in as little as 10 minutes. Vogue's Favorite Teeth Whitening Strips If past experiences with painful zingers have scared you off, don't fret. Thanks to advances in technology, many whitening strips are now formulated to be gentler on enamel, and some even use natural ingredients instead of hydrogen peroxide. There are also mess-free, dissolvable options that make it easy to whiten on the go. Below, we asked three board-certified dentists to share their favorite whitening strips and explain what to look for, whether they're actually safe, how long to wear them, and how often to apply for the best (and safest) results. In This Story: Best Gentle Formula: GuruNanda Teeth Whitening Strips GuruNanda Teeth Whitening Strips $10 AMAZON Why We Love It: If you're looking for something au naturel, board-certified dentist Dr. Kevin Sands says these are a great, affordable option for anyone with sensitive teeth or wanting a gentler approach to whitening. 'They contain hydrogen peroxide, but in a gentle formula balanced with coconut oil and essential oils to help soothe the gums,' he explains. For those who can't do chemical-y mystery mint, the taste is mild and clean with a subtle herbal finish. 'I like that they're free from artificial sweeteners and synthetic flavors, which is rare at this price point. I'd recommend them for first-time users or anyone looking for a low-commitment way to brighten their smile.' If you're looking for something au naturel, board-certified dentist Dr. Kevin Sands says these are a great, affordable option for anyone with sensitive teeth or wanting a gentler approach to whitening. 'They contain hydrogen peroxide, but in a gentle formula balanced with coconut oil and essential oils to help soothe the gums,' he explains. For those who can't do chemical-y mystery mint, the taste is mild and clean with a subtle herbal finish. 'I like that they're free from artificial sweeteners and synthetic flavors, which is rare at this price point. I'd recommend them for first-time users or anyone looking for a low-commitment way to brighten their smile.' Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, glycerin, menthol Coconut oil, glycerin, menthol Number of Treatments Included: 7 treatments 7 treatments How to Use: Apply to clean, dry teeth; press along the gumline and fold any excess behind your teeth. Leave on for 30 to 60 minutes, then remove, rinse, and brush. Best Peroxide-Free: Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips $23 AMAZON Why We Love It: A constant in my beauty routine, Lumineux is a great brand for sensitive smiles (and hearts). According to board-certified dentist Dr. Lauren Becker, these whitening strips are effective without being abrasive. 'These are especially good at removing stains and are peroxide-free,' she says. Unlike other strips you want to rip off immediately, these have a refreshing mint taste that's pleasant without being overpowering. A constant in my beauty routine, Lumineux is a great brand for sensitive smiles (and hearts). According to board-certified dentist Dr. Lauren Becker, these whitening strips are effective without being abrasive. 'These are especially good at removing stains and are peroxide-free,' she says. Unlike other strips you want to rip off immediately, these have a refreshing mint taste that's pleasant without being overpowering. Key Ingredients : Coconut oil, sage oil, lemon peel, dead sea salt : Coconut oil, sage oil, lemon peel, dead sea salt Number of Treatments Included : 9 treatments : 9 treatments How to Use: Apply upper and lower strips for 30 minutes once a day for four days in a row, then once a week to maintain results. After each use, rinse or brush your teeth. Best Quick Treatment: Crest 3D Whitestrips Why We Love It: Crest Whitestrips were the original whitening strips for many of us, and they're still one of the fastest, most effective options out there. While some strips slide off after just a few minutes, these stay in place and are sturdy enough to wear for the full 45 minutes—even while drinking water. 'These whitestrips can dramatically whiten the teeth that they can reach, although keep in mind if you have overly white teeth toward the front of your mouth, you might end up with a noticeably different shade in the back,' says Dr. Becker. You can also order them online, which means no dealing with the awkwardness of having them unlocked in-store. Crest Whitestrips were the original whitening strips for many of us, and they're still one of the fastest, most effective options out there. While some strips slide off after just a few minutes, these stay in place and are sturdy enough to wear for the full 45 minutes—even while drinking water. 'These whitestrips can dramatically whiten the teeth that they can reach, although keep in mind if you have overly white teeth toward the front of your mouth, you might end up with a noticeably different shade in the back,' says Dr. Becker. You can also order them online, which means no dealing with the awkwardness of having them unlocked in-store. Key Ingredients : Hydrogen peroxide : Hydrogen peroxide Number of Treatments Included : 22 treatments : 22 treatments How to Use: To use, apply one upper and one lower strip daily for 45 minutes over the course of 20 days. For an added boost, apply the 1 hour express strips on two separate days for 60 minutes each. Best Viral: Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips Why We Love It: A trending option that may have popped up on your feed recently, Dr. Becker cosigns Zimba's as an 'affordable, vegan [solution] that can whiten in 30 minutes per treatment.' She adds that the strips only adhere to the teeth and avoid the gumline, which helps minimize the sensitivity or discomfort that can happen when whitening ingredients touch the gums. Plus, they come in a variety of fun flavors like cherry, coconut, mint, peach, spearmint, strawberry, and watermelon. A trending option that may have popped up on your feed recently, Dr. Becker cosigns Zimba's as an 'affordable, vegan [solution] that can whiten in 30 minutes per treatment.' She adds that the strips only adhere to the teeth and avoid the gumline, which helps minimize the sensitivity or discomfort that can happen when whitening ingredients touch the gums. Plus, they come in a variety of fun flavors like cherry, coconut, mint, peach, spearmint, strawberry, and watermelon. Key Ingredients : Hydrogen peroxide, glycerin : Hydrogen peroxide, glycerin Number of Treatments Included : 14 treatments : 14 treatments How to Use: Apply the strips directly to your teeth and leave them on for 30 minutes per treatment. For deeper whitening, they can be left on for up to 60 minutes. Best Dissolvable: Moon Dissolving White Strips Why We Love It: Whether you're en route to dinner or on a long-haul flight, these dissolvable whitening strips from Moon are mess-free and travel-friendly. Dr. Sands explains that they use hydrogen peroxide at a safe level and have a fresh mint flavor that isn't overpowering. 'I like the clean, vegan-friendly ingredient list and the convenience of not having to remove the strips afterward. These are ideal for busy lifestyles or anyone wanting subtle whitening without the hassle. I'd recommend them for daily maintenance or in-between professional treatments.' Whether you're en route to dinner or on a long-haul flight, these dissolvable whitening strips from Moon are mess-free and travel-friendly. Dr. Sands explains that they use hydrogen peroxide at a safe level and have a fresh mint flavor that isn't overpowering. 'I like the clean, vegan-friendly ingredient list and the convenience of not having to remove the strips afterward. These are ideal for busy lifestyles or anyone wanting subtle whitening without the hassle. I'd recommend them for daily maintenance or in-between professional treatments.' Key Ingredients : Hydrogen peroxide : Hydrogen peroxide Number of Treatments Included : 7 treatments : 7 treatments How to Use: Apply the strips directly to your teeth and leave them on for 15 minutes. They'll dissolve completely on their own, so there's no need to rinse or remove afterward. Best Premium Option: Supersmile Dissolving Superstrips Why We Love It: The most expensive option on the list, these strips skip peroxide entirely, using the brand's patented Calprox to gently lift stains without triggering sensitivity. Dr. Sands calls them a 'premium option,' noting they dissolve quickly and have a clean, slightly sweet taste with no chemical aftertaste. 'I especially recommend them for patients with a history of enamel sensitivity or those who've struggled with irritation from traditional strips,' he says. The formula is enamel-safe, non-abrasive, and supports long-term oral health, which is ideal for anyone seeking a high-end, gentle whitening system. The most expensive option on the list, these strips skip peroxide entirely, using the brand's patented Calprox to gently lift stains without triggering sensitivity. Dr. Sands calls them a 'premium option,' noting they dissolve quickly and have a clean, slightly sweet taste with no chemical aftertaste. 'I especially recommend them for patients with a history of enamel sensitivity or those who've struggled with irritation from traditional strips,' he says. The formula is enamel-safe, non-abrasive, and supports long-term oral health, which is ideal for anyone seeking a high-end, gentle whitening system. Key Ingredients : Calprox : Calprox Number of Treatments Included : 7 treatments : 7 treatments How to Use: Apply with dry hands, press firmly onto teeth, and fold any excess behind. Let the strips dissolve completely, which takes about 15 minutes. Avoid eating or drinking during use, and wait at least 30 minutes before consuming anything. Best On-The-Go: Snow Diamond Dissolving Teeth Whitening Strips Snow Diamond Dissolving Teeth Whitening Strips $29 AMAZON Why We Love It: 'These dissolving strips are a convenient, mess-free option for patients who want to whiten on the go,' says board-certified dentist Dr. James Heaton. They use hydrogen peroxide, which he describes as 'the gold standard for whitening,' and since they dissolve completely, there's no need to peel them off or rinse. That also means there's less risk of accidentally overusing them. 'I'd recommend them for patients with mild staining who want a low-effort, travel-friendly option,' he adds, though he notes that dissolving strips typically offer more gradual results than traditional ones. 'These dissolving strips are a convenient, mess-free option for patients who want to whiten on the go,' says board-certified dentist Dr. James Heaton. They use hydrogen peroxide, which he describes as 'the gold standard for whitening,' and since they dissolve completely, there's no need to peel them off or rinse. That also means there's less risk of accidentally overusing them. 'I'd recommend them for patients with mild staining who want a low-effort, travel-friendly option,' he adds, though he notes that dissolving strips typically offer more gradual results than traditional ones. Key Ingredients : Hydroxyapatite : Hydroxyapatite Number of Treatments Included : 7 treatments : 7 treatments How to Use: Just peel, apply to clean teeth, and let the strips dissolve. Best for Oral Sensitivities: Burst Sensitive Teeth Friendly Whitening Strips Burst Sensitive Teeth Friendly Whitening Strip $20 AMAZON Why We Love It: Whether you're a water sign or just sensitive, Dr. Heaton says Burst's strips are specifically designed for those with oral sensitivity. They use hydrogen peroxide at a gentler concentration and pair it with ingredients like coconut oil and xylitol to help reduce irritation. 'These are a great choice for patients who've experienced sensitivity with other strips or are whitening for the first time. I like that they offer a good balance between safety and noticeable results over time,' he explains. Plus, the fresh mint flavor is mild, which makes the experience more enjoyable, and worth repeating. Whether you're a water sign or just sensitive, Dr. Heaton says Burst's strips are specifically designed for those with oral sensitivity. They use hydrogen peroxide at a gentler concentration and pair it with ingredients like coconut oil and xylitol to help reduce irritation. 'These are a great choice for patients who've experienced sensitivity with other strips or are whitening for the first time. I like that they offer a good balance between safety and noticeable results over time,' he explains. Plus, the fresh mint flavor is mild, which makes the experience more enjoyable, and worth repeating. Key Ingredients : Hydrogen peroxide : Hydrogen peroxide Number of Treatments Included : 10 treatments : 10 treatments How to Use: Apply with dry hands, press firmly onto teeth, and fold any excess behind. Leave on for 15 minutes and repeat daily for seven days. Everything You Need to Know
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2 days ago
- Buzz Feed
26 "Yeah, I'd Prefer Not To Buy This In Person" Items
A Venus Visage Teeth Whitening Pen, which can brighten your smile by four to eight shades with regular use. Whether your stains are due to coffee, tea, more coffee, wine, yet more coffee... or soda, this is sure to help. A big ol' pumice stone on a stick poised to annihilate stubborn stains left by limescale, hard water, calcium, iron, and rust — things your automatic toilet bowl cleaner is unforch no match for. An extra-strength callus-removing gel that'll get rid of the hard skin on your hooves (ahem, feet) if you're too terrified to face the glorified cheese grater at your local salon. And a Dermora Foot Peel Mask SO effective, the before and after photos will both give you nightmares and earn a spot on your vision board. A pack of medicated bandages laced with salicylic acid to target both common warts and plantar warts. Just reapply every 48 hours until your wart is no more! A kojic acid dark spot-removing soap you can safely use on your face, hands, neck, bikini area, inner thighs, and underarms. The vitamin C + E, retinol, collagen, and turmeric formula not only goes after uneven skin tones but cleanses and hydrates while it's at it. A reviewer-beloved anti-dandruff shampoo if you've had to press pause on wearing anything black because it looks like you've been caught in a snowstorm. A pack of clinical-strength SweatBlock wipes capable of stopping hyperhidrosis, nervous sweating, and hormonal sweating right in its tracks. Give your pits a good swipe down before bed and you *won't* wake up in a puddle of your own perspiration! A Squatty Potty designed to unkink your colon and help ya go, you know? In its 14+ years of existence, the product has racked up more than 39,000 5-star Amazon reviews from pleased poopers. A pack of four toe separators to help eliminate pain caused by bunions. The silicone aligners are so comfortable, they can even be worn with shoes. A physician-designed earwax remover if you've sworn off cotton swabs ever since watching *that* episode of Girls, but you still need something just as satisfying. A rapid relief fungal nail renewal treatment that can address discoloration, brittle nails, thickness, roughness, and ridges, so you can get those pups ready for pedi season in no time. And by no time, I really mean no time — it starts working in as little as 48 hours. Some piercing bump solution to help heal and reduce the size of pesky keloids so you don't have to give up on your brand-new piercing. (Been there, done that, and I know it's devastating. 😭) An oral rinse to not only keep your breath minty fresh, but OBLITERATE any existing tonsil stones and prevent new ones from forming. If you already have excellent oral hygiene but still experience those nasty suckers, reviewers say it's a lifesaver. And if that's not enough — a tonsil stone remover with a soft silicone prodder and an irrigator so you can blast those babies out and say goodbye to bad breath and your near-constant sore throat. A shoe spray that won't just mask the odor emanating from your beloved Chucks, but completely eliminate it. The fresh peppermint and eucalyptus formula also doubles as a foot deodorizer, so you can spray it right on your dogs. A stainless-steel tongue scraper that works so freaking well, one reviewer says they can now taste specific flavors they've never detected before LOL. A pack of sweat-wicking bra liners — made from cotton and bamboo — to absorb between-the-boob sweat and under-boob moisture. That way, you can wear silk slips without looking like you spilled a drink on yourself. A trusty bottle of Poo-Pourri laced with notes of coconut freesia and citrus so vibrant, a single spritz will guarantee no guests suspect what just went down in your bathroom. And a travel size version if you have a fear of using even your closest friend's bathroom.... A vegan ingrown hair oil because it's bathing suit season, and if you're shaving or waxing, a razor bump or some sort of irritation is likely going to rear its ugly head. A pack of "subtle butt" gas-neutralizing pads if — despite your best efforts — you can't help but drop bombs everywhere you go. At home, you can blame it on the dog, but when you're at the gym and there's only one other person on the treadmills... there's no scapegoat. An easy-to-install Tushy bidet that will save you serious $$$ on toilet paper and have you feeling clean as a whistle (whatever that means). An itsy-bitsy toenail brace if you regularly deal with ingrown toenails and are *so* over trips to the doc just to be told you need antibiotics. Apply this lil' guy and not only will it eliminate painful pressure within just a few days, but it'll completely straighten out your nail in a month or less! A ~premium~ Who Gives A Crap TP subscription that delivers fancy, 100% bamboo rolls the brand claims are "as soft and strong as a unicorn's mane (minus the split ends)." And a nail-biting polish if any time you feel the *least* bit anxious, you chomp on your fingers like there's no tomorrow. Sure, your mom tried to break that habit when you were younger with some hot sauce, but little did she know you ~love~ Cholula. Me running into another human in the TP aisle — despite the fact that literally everyone buys TP. Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.
