Latest news with #TheLaundress
South China Morning Post
03-07-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Luxe laundry: now even washing your clothes is elevated, as high-end fragrance brands like Le Labo have their own formulas, as do dermatologist Barbara Sturm and Kardashian matriarch, Kris Jenner
Washing clothes isn't the most glamorous of activities but laundry detergents are the latest home-care product to get the luxe treatment as a host of niche brands look to inject glamour into this mundane domestic task. The 'designerfication' of laundry detergents started with The Laundress, which was launched in 2014. Soon high-end fragrance brands like Le Labo Fragrances and Maison Francis Kurkdjian were creating their own formulas, along with high-profile personalities such as dermatologist-to-the-stars Barbara Sturm and Kardashian matriarch, Kris Jenner. The market has expanded even further as more specialist brands have come to the fore offering updated versions of this everyday essential. Unlike their predecessors, they offer products that do more than just clean your clothes, catering to the lifestyles of modern consumers with thoughtful details such as chic packaging, high-quality ingredients and custom scents. Advertisement Bestselling Dedtergent by Dedcool. Photo: Handout 'The luxury laundry segment has emerged at the intersection of fashion, beauty, home-care and wellness as customers increasingly scrutinise not just what they consume, but how it's made and by whom,' says Baek Jong-min, founder of clean laundry brand Laverée, which boasts skincare-grade ingredients. 'We're seeing a fundamental shift, where people view laundry care as an extension of their personal values and lifestyle choices, with ingredients, sourcing transparency and brand ethos becoming critical decision factors,' she says. As with beauty or skincare, customers are now seeking out laundry care products that meet their specific criteria. At the top of their list are formulas designed for a wide range of textiles and fabrics, and cutting-edge updates to products. 'We develop all our key ingredient formulations in-house at our own lab,' says Chris Melvill, co-founder of Emerald Fresh. 'This allows us to create highly specialised laundry sheets for different needs, whether it's caring for delicate silks, activewear or everyday cottons.' Emerald Fresh products come in pretty, recycled packaging. Photo: Handout Sophisticated scents are also now a given, with most of these brands enlisting the talents of boutique perfumers to create fragrances that evoke everything from a 'mother's embrace' (Emerald Fresh) and forests (Laverée) to a mix of milk and vanilla (Mochi Milk from Ded Cool). Along with luxe scents, chic packaging is equally important. Much like Aesop transformed our bathroom shelves, our laundry rooms are now decorated with bottles that range from sleek and minimalist, to joyful and uplifting. 'We wanted to transform the aesthetics around laundry … drawing inspiration from geometric vessels that sit as homewares. Many of our customers live in cities and must be strategic with their space, so our bottles are designed to be displayed proudly rather than hidden away, transforming a traditionally utilitarian product into a piece that organically integrates into the modern home,' says Baek.
CNN
07-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
36 relaxation-inducing products that help our editors wind down before bed
The products that help us wind down at the end of the day are an important part of our bedtime routines, which is why our team of editors wanted to share some of the beauty, home, tech and wellness products we rely on for a good night's sleep. From a luxe pillow spray to a white noise machine, these products prep us for bed and add a sense of calmness to our night. Looking for some inspiration for your own bedtime routine? Keep reading on to see our editors' picks. Smell House Work From Home Candle I reach for this candle whenever I need to wind down. The scent is subtle but soothing, and it instantly makes me feel more relaxed. It fills my entire apartment with a warm and inviting scent. I love pairing it with a nice warm bath after a long day. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator The Laundress Beauty Sleep Fabric Spray I'm all about scents when creating my sleep routine. There's nothing like laying my head down on a luxe-smelling pillow to help lull me to sleep. I love The Laundress' Beauty Sleep line, which includes this spray I keep on my nightstand, along with a laundry detergent made just for your bedding. It has notes of lavender, jasmine and sandalwood, just to name a few of the soothing smells. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Honeywell HYF260 Quiet Set Whole Room Tower Fan I initially bought this affordable tower fan a few years back to stay cool during a brutal summer, but it's since doubled as a handy white noise machine to help me doze off at night. Its five speed settings include Sleep, Calm and White Noise; the latter two do a great job lulling me into a restful state while also drowning out the ever-unpleasant sounds of my dog licking herself. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor Aura Cacia Essential Oil in Uplifting Vanilla I'm a big proponent of the scent-memory connection, so much so that I have a self-care scent in my nighttime routine. As I wind down for the night, I put a little bit of this vanilla essential oil on the pulse points on my wrists and neck. Is this completely unnecessary? Yes. But the warm, sweet and familiar vanilla scent helps calm my mind and cue my body that it's time to settle down for the night. My theory is that over time, my brain will link the comforting vanilla scent with the comforting sensation of curling up in my beloved bed and help me instantly relax as soon as I catch a whiff. And if nothing else, it's a nice act of self-love to smell something delightful before I close my eyes. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Naturepedic Organic Travel Pillow While it's technically a travel pillow, I sleep with this pillow every night. For as long as I've remembered, I've needed to hold a small pillow while sleeping for comfort and support. And since I've been using this one for a year, I'm not looking back. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Muji Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser While lighting a candle can set the mood, keeping a flame burning at bedtime is not the safest choice. Instead, I use this aroma diffuser for a hit of aromatherapy to help me unwind at night. It has several timer settings so you can choose how long it runs for, and then you don't have to worry about turning it off. It also has a built-in light so you can use it as a night light. I love using it with a couple of drops of Muji's French Lavender Pure Essential Oil for a relaxing, spa-like effect. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor Casper Dream Hybrid Mattress Winding down is one thing, but staying there is a whole different problem, so I must give credit to my evening MVP, Casper's hybrid Dream mattress. It basically killed off my lower back pain late last year, and it's been a great enabler of my side sleeping ever since I unboxed it. Its three-section design means it's supportive of my head but provides enough sink for my body for me to relax. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer Mrs. Meyer's Daisy Room Freshener Since I spend most of the day working at my desk — which just so happens to be located 18 inches from my bed — I find that winding down at the end of the day requires a more intentional vibe shift. Mrs. Meyer's products have long been staples in my kitchen and bathroom, but now I've found an essential for my bedroom too. I like to spritz my sheets and pillows a few times before getting under the covers. Words cannot express how good this room spray smells (I highly recommend the Geranium scent too), and the scent lasts without being overly potent or perfumey. — Caroline Curran, former deals editor Vitruvi Stone Ceramic Diffuser I'm not really a candle person, so I love firing up my gorgeous ceramic stone diffuser from Vitruvi each night before bed. I rotate between the brand's signature essential oil kit (Sleep is my favorite), and while it actually works to help me fall asleep faster, it also just doubles as a chic-looking piece of decor when I'm not using it. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Disney Lotso Scented Plush Yes, it's a kid's stuffed animal, but winding down sometimes means leaning into comfort. This Lotso bear from Disney is super soft, weighted just enough and smells like strawberries, which always helps me relax before bed. I sleep with this every night. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Nodpod Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask I have bouts of insomnia sometimes, especially when my brain is still active a couple of hours before bed, so I always need a proper wind-down routine. When I don't get around to that, however, this weighted sleep mask from Nodpod is the first thing I grab. There's something about the gentle pressure it applies to my head and eyes that's so relaxing. The first few times I used this, I didn't even realize I was falling asleep. Next thing I knew, it was daytime. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer Intelligent Change 'The Five-Minute Journal' When my mind is racing or I feel like I'm in a rut, I reach for this journal to help me wind down. Writing down the highlights of my day and what I'm grateful for really helps me relax right before bed. You're also supposed to take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts in the morning, but sometimes I forget. I keep it on my nightstand so it's always in my line of sight, but the pages are undated, so I don't have to stress about missing any days. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor L'Beauxtique Aromatic Eye Pillow This lavender-scented eye pillow feels like heaven after a long day. I try to avoid looking at my phone or electronics right before I go to sleep, and this pre-bedtime eye mask helps me unwind. You can put it in the microwave if you want a heated mask or pop it in the fridge for some cooling/depuffing action. — Hayley Saltzman, former social lead Vicks VapoShower Soothing Vapors Tablets I've been using Vicks VapoRub for years and recently discovered that the brand offers non-medicated shower steamer tablets. Needless to say, I've been using them at night to unwind and always feel extra refreshed after hopping out of the shower, thanks to the amazing blend of eucalyptus and menthol. It's such an easy way to create a spa-like feel in my bathroom, and I only wish I'd discovered them sooner. To get the most out of the tablet and prevent it from dissolving too quickly, I make sure to place it in a spot where the water is not directly hitting it. — Rachel Dennis, associate editor Alo Reset Magnesium Body Spray I've been struggling with staying asleep since I've gotten older and have tried just about every sleep gummy and hack in the book. While some gummies work, I have to wait to brush my teeth until I take them. Enter: Alo's Reset Magnesium Body Spray. I recently got a mini sample at an Alo workout event, and the two times I used it (I sprayed it on the bottom of my feet before bed), I had some of the highest Oura sleep scores I've ever seen. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream I always reach for this when I want my skin to feel deeply moisturized before bed. The texture is rich but not too heavy, and it absorbs surprisingly well for how moisturizing it is. I notice the glow right away, but it's not greasy, making my skin feel cared for after a long day. It's become a staple in my nighttime routine, especially when I want to wake up looking refreshed. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Dermal Collagen Essence Face Masks, 16-Pack I love winding down at night with one of these face masks, which are not only soothing to the skin but also frequently on sale — even at full price, it works out to just 75 cents per mask! As someone with sensitive skin, I've never had any problems with these, whether I wash my face after removing the mask or not. Plus, they're great to throw on the pillow of any guests who stay with you. — Daniel Toy, copy chief RéVive Melting Cleanser/Makeup-Removing Wash There's no better feeling than taking off your makeup after a long day. It feels a lot less like a chore with this remover. It's gentle, doesn't sting my eyes and actually leaves my skin feeling soft instead of stripped. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Thisworks Deep Sleep Body Whip Although I have an extensive facial skin care routine, I'm not so diligent when it comes to body care. Usually, I slather on some body lotion after a shower and that's it, but in the dry winter months, my skin is flaky and parched by the end of the day. This light yet creamy body whip helps keep my skin soft, all while promoting relaxation. Thanks to its calming lavender fragrance and a formula made with hemp seed extract and magnesium (which is supposed to improve your sleep quality), this body lotion has become integral to my bedtime routine. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor O'Keefe's Working Hands and Healthy Feet Night Treatment I usually have the driest hands and feet in the world — itchy, cracked, you name it. But applying O'Keefe's Working Hands and Healthy Feet Night Treatments when I get into bed has made a huge difference. My skin feels softer and smoother, and is visibly more hydrated when I wake up. Not only that but the lavender scent is calming and helps me relax as I try to fall asleep. — Danielle Poiesz, copy editor Amika Frizz-Me-Not Hydrating Anti-Frizz Treatment Before bed, I love putting in a leave-in treatment so that my hair can transform overnight. This leave-in treatment from Amika is one of my favorites. It leaves my hair frizz-free without weighing it down and also smells amazing. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Clearstem Hydraglow Stem Cell Moisturizer Packed with stem cells, squalane and bakuchiol (a nontoxic and natural alternative to retinol), my favorite moisturizer, Hydraglow, quite literally trains my skin to look younger while I sleep. It's hands down my No. 1 secret sleep weapon to waking up with ultra-hydrated, plumped, youthful-looking skin. — Stephanie Griffin, social director Biossance Squalane and Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum When my skin feels tired or dull, I reach for this. It sinks in fast and gives a noticeable hydration boost. I apply it every night before bed to get that glowy look the next morning. The formula combines squalane and copper peptides, which help smooth and strengthen the skin over time, but what I love most is how fast it works. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask A lot has changed about my sleep schedule over the past few years, but one thing that's remained consistent is using the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask every single night. I swipe it on before I get under the covers, and it signals to my brain that it's time for bed. As a bonus, I wake up with super-soft and hydrated lips. A little goes a long way, so the jar lasts so much longer than you'd think. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Aesop Rind Concentrate Body Balm I swear by Aesop skin products, and this body balm is no exception. I love this rind concentrate scent. It's the perfect combination of fresh, citrus smell with nourishing powers for softer hands. One small dollop, and I feel immediately relaxed. — Emily McNutt, former senior travel editor Clearstem Sulfur Spot&Mask Given that this spot treatment is bright purple in color, I only ever use it at night. It's packed with clay, zinc, sulfur and glycolic [acid] that actually zap whiteheads and bacteria while I sleep. Oh, and to all my acne-prone girlies out there looking for affordable yet effective overnight skin care, I've tried every single spot treatment under the sun, and let me tell you, this one is hands down the best! —Stephanie Griffin, social director Starface Hydro-Stars I love a beauty product that works overnight, and these cute pimple patches help banish breakouts by the morning. The star-shaped hydrocolloid stickers absorb the fluid and gunk within the pimples, reducing the inflammation and size of the zits. While I've tried several brands of pimple patches, I always come back to these because they're honestly a joy to put on, they come with a fun case that has a compact mirror inside and there are limited-edition drops of the stickers, so you can mix it up with new colors. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor CosRX Low-pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser More often than not, my best sleep starts with my evening skin care routine, which doesn't happen unless I use CosRX's gel face cleanser. It's so neutral and cleansing that my skin is left feeling and looking great, which is a neat little part of my path to sleep. So don't interpret its 'Good Morning' name as a sign that you should use it when waking up but, instead, as a sign that using it at night will enable you to wake up well rested. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer Amazon Kindle This got me through major jet lag when I was in the Philippines for a two-week vacation. I'm a purist when it comes to books, but the need to travel light outweighed my desire to smell the pages of a book. This one is so thin and lightweight that it is truly the best travel accessory. I love that its glare-free display still makes everything readable even when the lights are off but not too bright that it disrupts my wind down. It also handles better than a book when you're reading in bed. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer Headspace I have a hard time falling asleep. On those nights when I'm tossing and turning and I just can't turn my brain off, I love turning on the sleepcasts on the Headspace app. They have a short meditation exercise, where you either focus on your breathing or 'turning off' your muscles one by one, then they launch into a cute and relaxing story. They've definitely helped me calm down at night and get better sleep when I'm stressed. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor Sony WH-1000XM6 Over-Ear Headphones We're in that busy part of the early summer, which means I can always hear partiers in my building and neighborhood, regardless of how much I don't want to be involved. This is why I'm thankful to have tested and reviewed the new best noise-canceling headphones: Sony's new XM6 over-ear cans. From that moment on the couch when I'm just trying to focus on my book and I use their superior noise cancellation to block out the world, to later in bed when I finally remember to do my evening guided meditation, these super-comfortable headphones stop me from getting distracted and allow me to actually focus on the things that help me sleep. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer Read our review Soundcore Sleep A20 Wireless Earbuds I don't mind some noise like the faraway sound of cars on the freeway or people talking on the street. In fact, I prefer it over total silence. But the obnoxious sound of a plane engine or the loud chatter of passengers on an early-morning ferry ride vex me. Good thing I discovered the Sleep A20 from Soundcore. These sleep earbuds don't offer active noise cancellation, which I prefer, but they do offer a library of relaxing white noise sounds that help put me in a stress-free space so my brain and body can relax enough to sleep. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer Hatch Restore 3 When I'm not using the Headspace app, I'm using my Hatch Restore, which offers a plethora of meditations, sounds and sunrise/sunset calming lighting options to help me fall asleep (and wake up). It's simple to set a routine, and the brand even makes similar models designed for kids as well as an on-the-go, AirTag-shaped device for babies called the Rest Go. — Daniel Toy, copy chief Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe I can't remember the last time I went to sleep without this 3-in-1 Apple device charger by my side. The Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe has all the nice little touches like vegan leather and a slim profile, so it fits onto my slightly small bedside table. And its multi-device charging lets my phone show the time in a warm, lulling red in the evening on Standby mode, makes it easy to find my charged Apple Watch when it's time to track my sleep and puts my AirPods within reach in the morning when it's time to go to the gym. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writerRead our review Philips Hue Smart Light Starter Kit Getting out of bed early in the morning is so hard when it's still dark out. These smart lights are the only reason I'm able to wake up on time, especially in the winter! I have them set on a schedule so that the lights gradually turn on in the morning and automatically dim when it's time for bed at night. And if I get under the covers without flipping the light switch, I can just ask Alexa to 'turn off all lights.' They also come in handy when I'm on vacation — I can set a schedule so it looks like someone's home. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) When my dog inevitably wakes me up too early to go outside and I need to catch some extra zzz's, I hop back in bed, pop in my AirPods Pro 2, play my trusty aircraft noises from the Calm app and usually manage to get a bit of bonus sleep. Their fantastic active noise cancellation helps block out my dog's aforementioned mouth noises and also works great when I'm trying to snooze a bit on airplanes. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editorRead our review CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate editor Rachel Dennis rounded up some of our editors' favorite products to use before bed.
CNN
07-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
36 relaxation-inducing products that help our editors wind down before bed
The products that help us wind down at the end of the day are an important part of our bedtime routines, which is why our team of editors wanted to share some of the beauty, home, tech and wellness products we rely on for a good night's sleep. From a luxe pillow spray to a white noise machine, these products prep us for bed and add a sense of calmness to our night. Looking for some inspiration for your own bedtime routine? Keep reading on to see our editors' picks. Smell House Work From Home Candle I reach for this candle whenever I need to wind down. The scent is subtle but soothing, and it instantly makes me feel more relaxed. It fills my entire apartment with a warm and inviting scent. I love pairing it with a nice warm bath after a long day. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator The Laundress Beauty Sleep Fabric Spray I'm all about scents when creating my sleep routine. There's nothing like laying my head down on a luxe-smelling pillow to help lull me to sleep. I love The Laundress' Beauty Sleep line, which includes this spray I keep on my nightstand, along with a laundry detergent made just for your bedding. It has notes of lavender, jasmine and sandalwood, just to name a few of the soothing smells. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Honeywell HYF260 Quiet Set Whole Room Tower Fan I initially bought this affordable tower fan a few years back to stay cool during a brutal summer, but it's since doubled as a handy white noise machine to help me doze off at night. Its five speed settings include Sleep, Calm and White Noise; the latter two do a great job lulling me into a restful state while also drowning out the ever-unpleasant sounds of my dog licking herself. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor Aura Cacia Essential Oil in Uplifting Vanilla I'm a big proponent of the scent-memory connection, so much so that I have a self-care scent in my nighttime routine. As I wind down for the night, I put a little bit of this vanilla essential oil on the pulse points on my wrists and neck. Is this completely unnecessary? Yes. But the warm, sweet and familiar vanilla scent helps calm my mind and cue my body that it's time to settle down for the night. My theory is that over time, my brain will link the comforting vanilla scent with the comforting sensation of curling up in my beloved bed and help me instantly relax as soon as I catch a whiff. And if nothing else, it's a nice act of self-love to smell something delightful before I close my eyes. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Naturepedic Organic Travel Pillow While it's technically a travel pillow, I sleep with this pillow every night. For as long as I've remembered, I've needed to hold a small pillow while sleeping for comfort and support. And since I've been using this one for a year, I'm not looking back. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Muji Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser While lighting a candle can set the mood, keeping a flame burning at bedtime is not the safest choice. Instead, I use this aroma diffuser for a hit of aromatherapy to help me unwind at night. It has several timer settings so you can choose how long it runs for, and then you don't have to worry about turning it off. It also has a built-in light so you can use it as a night light. I love using it with a couple of drops of Muji's French Lavender Pure Essential Oil for a relaxing, spa-like effect. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor Casper Dream Hybrid Mattress Winding down is one thing, but staying there is a whole different problem, so I must give credit to my evening MVP, Casper's hybrid Dream mattress. It basically killed off my lower back pain late last year, and it's been a great enabler of my side sleeping ever since I unboxed it. Its three-section design means it's supportive of my head but provides enough sink for my body for me to relax. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer Mrs. Meyer's Daisy Room Freshener Since I spend most of the day working at my desk — which just so happens to be located 18 inches from my bed — I find that winding down at the end of the day requires a more intentional vibe shift. Mrs. Meyer's products have long been staples in my kitchen and bathroom, but now I've found an essential for my bedroom too. I like to spritz my sheets and pillows a few times before getting under the covers. Words cannot express how good this room spray smells (I highly recommend the Geranium scent too), and the scent lasts without being overly potent or perfumey. — Caroline Curran, former deals editor Vitruvi Stone Ceramic Diffuser I'm not really a candle person, so I love firing up my gorgeous ceramic stone diffuser from Vitruvi each night before bed. I rotate between the brand's signature essential oil kit (Sleep is my favorite), and while it actually works to help me fall asleep faster, it also just doubles as a chic-looking piece of decor when I'm not using it. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Disney Lotso Scented Plush Yes, it's a kid's stuffed animal, but winding down sometimes means leaning into comfort. This Lotso bear from Disney is super soft, weighted just enough and smells like strawberries, which always helps me relax before bed. I sleep with this every night. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Nodpod Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask I have bouts of insomnia sometimes, especially when my brain is still active a couple of hours before bed, so I always need a proper wind-down routine. When I don't get around to that, however, this weighted sleep mask from Nodpod is the first thing I grab. There's something about the gentle pressure it applies to my head and eyes that's so relaxing. The first few times I used this, I didn't even realize I was falling asleep. Next thing I knew, it was daytime. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer Intelligent Change 'The Five-Minute Journal' When my mind is racing or I feel like I'm in a rut, I reach for this journal to help me wind down. Writing down the highlights of my day and what I'm grateful for really helps me relax right before bed. You're also supposed to take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts in the morning, but sometimes I forget. I keep it on my nightstand so it's always in my line of sight, but the pages are undated, so I don't have to stress about missing any days. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor L'Beauxtique Aromatic Eye Pillow This lavender-scented eye pillow feels like heaven after a long day. I try to avoid looking at my phone or electronics right before I go to sleep, and this pre-bedtime eye mask helps me unwind. You can put it in the microwave if you want a heated mask or pop it in the fridge for some cooling/depuffing action. — Hayley Saltzman, former social lead Vicks VapoShower Soothing Vapors Tablets I've been using Vicks VapoRub for years and recently discovered that the brand offers non-medicated shower steamer tablets. Needless to say, I've been using them at night to unwind and always feel extra refreshed after hopping out of the shower, thanks to the amazing blend of eucalyptus and menthol. It's such an easy way to create a spa-like feel in my bathroom, and I only wish I'd discovered them sooner. To get the most out of the tablet and prevent it from dissolving too quickly, I make sure to place it in a spot where the water is not directly hitting it. — Rachel Dennis, associate editor Alo Reset Magnesium Body Spray I've been struggling with staying asleep since I've gotten older and have tried just about every sleep gummy and hack in the book. While some gummies work, I have to wait to brush my teeth until I take them. Enter: Alo's Reset Magnesium Body Spray. I recently got a mini sample at an Alo workout event, and the two times I used it (I sprayed it on the bottom of my feet before bed), I had some of the highest Oura sleep scores I've ever seen. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream I always reach for this when I want my skin to feel deeply moisturized before bed. The texture is rich but not too heavy, and it absorbs surprisingly well for how moisturizing it is. I notice the glow right away, but it's not greasy, making my skin feel cared for after a long day. It's become a staple in my nighttime routine, especially when I want to wake up looking refreshed. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Dermal Collagen Essence Face Masks, 16-Pack I love winding down at night with one of these face masks, which are not only soothing to the skin but also frequently on sale — even at full price, it works out to just 75 cents per mask! As someone with sensitive skin, I've never had any problems with these, whether I wash my face after removing the mask or not. Plus, they're great to throw on the pillow of any guests who stay with you. — Daniel Toy, copy chief RéVive Melting Cleanser/Makeup-Removing Wash There's no better feeling than taking off your makeup after a long day. It feels a lot less like a chore with this remover. It's gentle, doesn't sting my eyes and actually leaves my skin feeling soft instead of stripped. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Thisworks Deep Sleep Body Whip Although I have an extensive facial skin care routine, I'm not so diligent when it comes to body care. Usually, I slather on some body lotion after a shower and that's it, but in the dry winter months, my skin is flaky and parched by the end of the day. This light yet creamy body whip helps keep my skin soft, all while promoting relaxation. Thanks to its calming lavender fragrance and a formula made with hemp seed extract and magnesium (which is supposed to improve your sleep quality), this body lotion has become integral to my bedtime routine. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor O'Keefe's Working Hands and Healthy Feet Night Treatment I usually have the driest hands and feet in the world — itchy, cracked, you name it. But applying O'Keefe's Working Hands and Healthy Feet Night Treatments when I get into bed has made a huge difference. My skin feels softer and smoother, and is visibly more hydrated when I wake up. Not only that but the lavender scent is calming and helps me relax as I try to fall asleep. — Danielle Poiesz, copy editor Amika Frizz-Me-Not Hydrating Anti-Frizz Treatment Before bed, I love putting in a leave-in treatment so that my hair can transform overnight. This leave-in treatment from Amika is one of my favorites. It leaves my hair frizz-free without weighing it down and also smells amazing. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Clearstem Hydraglow Stem Cell Moisturizer Packed with stem cells, squalane and bakuchiol (a nontoxic and natural alternative to retinol), my favorite moisturizer, Hydraglow, quite literally trains my skin to look younger while I sleep. It's hands down my No. 1 secret sleep weapon to waking up with ultra-hydrated, plumped, youthful-looking skin. — Stephanie Griffin, social director Biossance Squalane and Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum When my skin feels tired or dull, I reach for this. It sinks in fast and gives a noticeable hydration boost. I apply it every night before bed to get that glowy look the next morning. The formula combines squalane and copper peptides, which help smooth and strengthen the skin over time, but what I love most is how fast it works. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask A lot has changed about my sleep schedule over the past few years, but one thing that's remained consistent is using the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask every single night. I swipe it on before I get under the covers, and it signals to my brain that it's time for bed. As a bonus, I wake up with super-soft and hydrated lips. A little goes a long way, so the jar lasts so much longer than you'd think. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Aesop Rind Concentrate Body Balm I swear by Aesop skin products, and this body balm is no exception. I love this rind concentrate scent. It's the perfect combination of fresh, citrus smell with nourishing powers for softer hands. One small dollop, and I feel immediately relaxed. — Emily McNutt, former senior travel editor Clearstem Sulfur Spot&Mask Given that this spot treatment is bright purple in color, I only ever use it at night. It's packed with clay, zinc, sulfur and glycolic [acid] that actually zap whiteheads and bacteria while I sleep. Oh, and to all my acne-prone girlies out there looking for affordable yet effective overnight skin care, I've tried every single spot treatment under the sun, and let me tell you, this one is hands down the best! —Stephanie Griffin, social director Starface Hydro-Stars I love a beauty product that works overnight, and these cute pimple patches help banish breakouts by the morning. The star-shaped hydrocolloid stickers absorb the fluid and gunk within the pimples, reducing the inflammation and size of the zits. While I've tried several brands of pimple patches, I always come back to these because they're honestly a joy to put on, they come with a fun case that has a compact mirror inside and there are limited-edition drops of the stickers, so you can mix it up with new colors. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor CosRX Low-pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser More often than not, my best sleep starts with my evening skin care routine, which doesn't happen unless I use CosRX's gel face cleanser. It's so neutral and cleansing that my skin is left feeling and looking great, which is a neat little part of my path to sleep. So don't interpret its 'Good Morning' name as a sign that you should use it when waking up but, instead, as a sign that using it at night will enable you to wake up well rested. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer Amazon Kindle This got me through major jet lag when I was in the Philippines for a two-week vacation. I'm a purist when it comes to books, but the need to travel light outweighed my desire to smell the pages of a book. This one is so thin and lightweight that it is truly the best travel accessory. I love that its glare-free display still makes everything readable even when the lights are off but not too bright that it disrupts my wind down. It also handles better than a book when you're reading in bed. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer Headspace I have a hard time falling asleep. On those nights when I'm tossing and turning and I just can't turn my brain off, I love turning on the sleepcasts on the Headspace app. They have a short meditation exercise, where you either focus on your breathing or 'turning off' your muscles one by one, then they launch into a cute and relaxing story. They've definitely helped me calm down at night and get better sleep when I'm stressed. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor Sony WH-1000XM6 Over-Ear Headphones We're in that busy part of the early summer, which means I can always hear partiers in my building and neighborhood, regardless of how much I don't want to be involved. This is why I'm thankful to have tested and reviewed the new best noise-canceling headphones: Sony's new XM6 over-ear cans. From that moment on the couch when I'm just trying to focus on my book and I use their superior noise cancellation to block out the world, to later in bed when I finally remember to do my evening guided meditation, these super-comfortable headphones stop me from getting distracted and allow me to actually focus on the things that help me sleep. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer Read our review Soundcore Sleep A20 Wireless Earbuds I don't mind some noise like the faraway sound of cars on the freeway or people talking on the street. In fact, I prefer it over total silence. But the obnoxious sound of a plane engine or the loud chatter of passengers on an early-morning ferry ride vex me. Good thing I discovered the Sleep A20 from Soundcore. These sleep earbuds don't offer active noise cancellation, which I prefer, but they do offer a library of relaxing white noise sounds that help put me in a stress-free space so my brain and body can relax enough to sleep. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer Hatch Restore 3 When I'm not using the Headspace app, I'm using my Hatch Restore, which offers a plethora of meditations, sounds and sunrise/sunset calming lighting options to help me fall asleep (and wake up). It's simple to set a routine, and the brand even makes similar models designed for kids as well as an on-the-go, AirTag-shaped device for babies called the Rest Go. — Daniel Toy, copy chief Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe I can't remember the last time I went to sleep without this 3-in-1 Apple device charger by my side. The Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe has all the nice little touches like vegan leather and a slim profile, so it fits onto my slightly small bedside table. And its multi-device charging lets my phone show the time in a warm, lulling red in the evening on Standby mode, makes it easy to find my charged Apple Watch when it's time to track my sleep and puts my AirPods within reach in the morning when it's time to go to the gym. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writerRead our review Philips Hue Smart Light Starter Kit Getting out of bed early in the morning is so hard when it's still dark out. These smart lights are the only reason I'm able to wake up on time, especially in the winter! I have them set on a schedule so that the lights gradually turn on in the morning and automatically dim when it's time for bed at night. And if I get under the covers without flipping the light switch, I can just ask Alexa to 'turn off all lights.' They also come in handy when I'm on vacation — I can set a schedule so it looks like someone's home. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) When my dog inevitably wakes me up too early to go outside and I need to catch some extra zzz's, I hop back in bed, pop in my AirPods Pro 2, play my trusty aircraft noises from the Calm app and usually manage to get a bit of bonus sleep. Their fantastic active noise cancellation helps block out my dog's aforementioned mouth noises and also works great when I'm trying to snooze a bit on airplanes. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editorRead our review CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate editor Rachel Dennis rounded up some of our editors' favorite products to use before bed.
New York Post
05-06-2025
- Business
- New York Post
For members of this new private club from The Laundress co-founder, cleaning isn't a chore — it's a lifestyle
She's coming clean. In 2019, Gwen Whiting sold The Laundress — the luxury laundry and home care brand she co-founded — to Unilever for a reported $100 million. 7 Gwen Whiting launched The Fill in 2024. The members-only cleaning club holds wellness as its north star — and membership includes not only access to The Fill's home and laundry care products, but also direct advice from Whiting via her 'cleaning concierge,' and admission to an in-person and virtual forum called 'the Circle.' Emmy Park for NY Post. Now, after waiting out an agonizing five-year non-compete, non-disparagement agreement, the 49-year-old has launched a new company — The Fill — devoted to cleaning and community, and she's opening up about the regrettable Unilever deal. 'The value proposition was, '[Unilever is] a business that cares about sustainability,' and I really drank the Kool-Aid, I really believed that I was sending my baby to college,' Whiting told NYNext. 'Unfortunately, that was not the experience that I had.' Under the watch of Whiting and her co-founder, Lindsey Boyd, The Laundress had scaled deliberately. Once owned by Unilever, the company boomed in scope and scale — with disastrous results. In November 2022, Unilever had to issue an eight million-item recall of Laundress products due to bacterial contamination; the company told customers to stop using all detergents and cleaning products and pulled items from store shelves. 7 Because The Fill's products come in refillable pouches, Whiting prefers to use decanters as opposed to the plastic bottles most cleaning products are stored in. The ethos of The Fill is rooted in Whiting's conviction that cleaning can be a lifestyle. Emmy Park for NY Post. 7 Whiting has a 'smell station,' showcasing the different scents bottled inside The Fill's products. 'The beauty of aromatherapy,' Whiting said, 'is you don't have to do anything to get the benefits.' Emmy Park for NY Post. The following March, there was a second recall due to a carcinogen in some products. The Laundress temporarily shuttered, and wouldn't relaunch until July of 2023. 'It was very painful,' Whiting said. 'My whole life and identity were so intertwined with The Laundress.' Her legal agreements made it worse. 'There were a lot of people reaching out to me and I had that five-year non-compete, non-disparaging agreement — I couldn't say anything,' she said. (The Post has reached out to Unilever for comment.) 7 Whiting sold The Laundress to Unilever for a reported $100 million in 2019. Emmy Park for NY Post. Whiting had stayed aboard for two more years after The Laundress' sale, but unbeknownst to many of her followers, her contract had expired in 2021. 'It wasn't exactly public that I was not part of [it anymore],' she said. In the wake of the fallout, Whiting didn't immediately plot a return; in fact, she actively resisted one. 'I never wanted to make products again,' she said. 'My work was done.' 7 Whiting told NYNext's Lydia Moynihan that her experience with Unilever left her burned out and disenfranchised. 'I never wanted to make products again,' she said. 'My work was done, I could move on to something else.' Emmy Park for NY Post. But friends and longtime customers kept calling — asking what she was using now, asking what they should clean with — and Whiting felt pulled back in. 'I couldn't leave my community hung to dry,' Whiting said. Last June, she launched The Fill, a line of eco-friendly cleaning products and a private member's community that is based out of the National Arts Club in Gramercy Park. 7 Whiting's work with The Fill is a natural evolution from the work she began with The Laundress in the early 2000s. Back then, she was pioneering 'neat cleaning,' a fabric-specific, design-forward approach. Emmy Park for NY Post. Memberships start at $40 per year and include access to The Fill's line of home and laundry care products, direct advice from Whiting via her 'cleaning concierge' service, and admission to 'the Circle,' a digital and in-person hub for workshops, Q&As, and community programming. Past events have included in-person fitness classes, online breathing workshops and Zoom reading sessions — and it's all tied to Whiting's belief that cleaning isn't just a chore, but a lifestyle. 'I gave my know-how, cleaning help and resources openly for 20 years,' said Whiting, who studied fiber science and apparel design at Cornell and later worked as a designer at Ralph Lauren Home. 'Now, that's mine to share with the members of my community. And there's value in community.' 7 The Fill's products come in reusable pouches, which Whiting said use 80% less plastic than traditional bottles. Emmy Park for NY Post. While The Laundress trafficked in traditional notions of luxury with $50 bottles of detergent perfumed with Le Labo scents, The Fill is more sustainability focused and discrete, but still skews upscale. Many products come in eco-conscious pouches, and refillable glass bottles are sold separately. Traditional perfume has been swapped for functional aromatherapy blends designed to calm, energize, or restore. Labels have a handwritten-look. This story is part of NYNext, an indispensable insider insight into the innovations, moonshots and political chess moves that matter most to NYC's power players (and those who aspire to be). It's a deliberate return to the intimacy Whiting had spent years cultivating — then lost. 'My goals are very different [this time around],' she said. 'It is a completely different way of doing business. A different sensibility. The second chapter.' Send NYNext a tip: nynextlydia@
CNN
25-03-2025
- General
- CNN
22 cleaning products that our editors can't stop reaching for
Regular cleaning is a necessity if you want to keep your home feeling fresh and organized, but it's by no means the most high-octane activity on your to-do list. And Underscored editors, we're just like you — we have homes that, whether we like it or not, we have to clean. Luckily, since we test products for a living, we've found plenty of cleaning essentials that make sprucing up our spaces easy and at times, even borderline fun. Ahead, we're sharing our tried and trusted cleaning products with you. A post shared by CNN Underscored (@cnnunderscored) Scrub Daddy Scrub Mommy Sponges, 3-Pack I have yet to find a better sponge than the Scrub Mommy. I love that it's double-sided for all my cleaning needs. It's long-lasting, durable and gets the job done, all without scratching my most delicate dishes or pans. I've even used it to scrub floors. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer Oxo Good Grips Deep Clean Brush Set I've had these mini scrub brushes for years, and they're so handy that I think everyone should have them in their home. I use them for practically everything, whether I need to clean the small parts of my cat's water fountain or scrub away residue from stickers. I also like that the smaller brush has a silicone 'blade' that reaches into tight crevices I'd be otherwise unable to clean. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner When I need to start cleaning, I put on a podcast and pull out my Mrs. Meyer's Multi-Surface Cleaner. I like using it after cooking or to freshen up my space over the weekend. It's safe to use on every surface in my home. Plus, the lavender scent smells incredible. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner Gel I've used other toilet bowl cleaners, but I like that this one from Lysol clings to the rim and inside of the toilet bowl. The gel's clinginess, combined with the angled bottle shape, makes it easy to coat those hard-to-reach spots before going in with the toilet brush. Plus, the Atlantic Fresh scent has a pleasant, slightly minty smell to it. — Rachel Dennis, associate editor Shark Vacmop If you have a lot of hardwood and/or tile flooring in your space, the Shark VacMop is an absolute must-have cleaning tool. I grab it for minor and major messes alike, and it's significantly cut down on the need to do regular deep cleans. I love it so much that I have one for upstairs and one for downstairs. — Daniel Toy, section editor, copy chief The Laundress Glass & Mirror Cleaner Windex is usually my go-to glass and mirror cleaner, but these days, I'm loving this one from The Laundress. With notes of lavender, jasmine and eucalyptus, this luxury cleaning product smells incredible — and it leaves my mirrors streak-free when paired with a microfiber cloth. I'm also a fan of the surface cleaner from the same collection. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Staff Reusable Lint Roller Who said cleaning products have to be an eyesore? Not Staff, the brand behind all my favorite cleaning products that look like decor. I just got this cute lint roller that I display in my apartment proudly, and it makes catching fuzzies a lot more fun. I also own Staff's toilet plunger, hangers, toilet brush and oven mitts, so I mean business when I say the brand should become a staple in your cleaning and organizing routine too. These items are so cool, I actually look forward to cleaning a dirty toilet (I'm slightly kidding)! — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor Clorox Clean-Up All-Purpose Cleaner I find bleach scary and don't like to use it too regularly for cleaning, but sometimes you need to break out the heavy-duty stuff to get the job done. I'll dilute a tablespoon or two of this Clorox cleaner and bleach into a bucket when I need to give my shower a good scrub or add a splash to my compost bin when I need to get rid of lingering decomposition smells. It's a bit harsh, but good to have on hand when you want something to clean and disinfect effectively. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, 10-Pack I hesitate to call any cleaning tool 'magical,' but the Magic Eraser comes pretty close. Whether I'm using it to remove weird smudges on my walls or brighten up my white sneakers, this sturdy sponge works on tougher messes to minimize the need for intense scrubbing, often times with just water alone. I always have a pack under my kitchen sink at home, and they're my cleaning go-to when nothing else works. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director Lysol Disinfectant Spray Before lining my trash bins with a fresh bag, I like to spray the inside of the bins with this Lysol disinfectant spray. You only need a few sprays, and it keeps things smelling nice and fresh while disinfecting the surface and killing any lingering germs. — Rachel Dennis, associate editor Bar Keepers Friend Multipurpose Household Cleanser and Polish Bar Keepers Friend is one of those must-have cleaning products that you're always going to find under my sink. It works extremely well at removing rust stains and hard water spots in my kitchen sink, and it can also restore scorched stainless steel cookware. The best part? It's so affordable! — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Read our review Wagner Spraytech 925e Elite Steamer I love using a steamer because once you buy it, all you need to do is add water to get a good clean. From floors to ovens to taking off wallpaper and getting wrinkles out of clothes, this steamer can get any job done. It gets even the worst gunk and grime off ovens in only a few minutes. The whole thing is lightweight and on wheels, so it makes it easy to go from room to room. Plus, it comes with a variety of attachments for whatever you use it for. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor Dyson WashG1 I had the opportunity to finally test this wet vacuum for my best Dyson vacuums guide, and I am in love! I've probably owned about three or four mop vacuums over the years, and this one made the process so much easier. Although, I wish Dyson made the water tank bigger so I didn't have to refill it as often. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Read our review Stardrops The Pink Stuff Cleaning Paste This pink paste was all over my social feeds a few summers ago, and after a while, I was influenced to give it a go. I have no idea what is in this strange, pink paste, but it cleans well. I tend to reach for this when I deep clean and need to cut through built-up grime on my stove top, oven or shower. I've even used it to spruce up a pair of white sneakers. For extra cleaning precision and force, I like to dip an old toothbrush in the paste to get hard-to-reach areas like in-between sink handles, drains and other tight nooks. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor. Read our review Shark Steam Mop My friend gave me a Shark Steam Mop because she accidentally received two due to a shipping error, and I'm glad she did. Despite not having a lot of features and being made of mostly plastic, it's an impressive steam mop that you'll want in your spring cleaning arsenal. It gets hot enough — scalding hot, in fact, so be careful — that it'll quickly remove all the months of grime off your floor without requiring that much effort from you. I love using it on days when I'm feeling lazy but know that I absolutely need to clean. It's a cheap alternative to the Dyson WashG1. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Bona High Performance Dusting System I recently got my hands on this extendable duster from Bona, and it has been a game changer at dusting those hard-to-reach areas in my apartment. I had been neglecting to dust my ceiling fan for way too long, but as soon as I got my hands on this long-handled duster with an adjustable head, it was a cleaning task that was borderline kind of fun. Even though it's taller than me while fully extended, it folds up so compact that it'd fit in even the smallest apartments. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor Iucge Rubber Cleaning Gloves It's my belief that every home should have at least one pair of rubber gloves on hand. Whether you're dealing with harsh chemicals like bleach or dealing with grimy and harrowing messes, it's nice to have something protecting your skin and clothes. These gloves give me the liberty to clean with even more elbow grease and are also great for daily tasks like dishwashing, especially if you have manicured hands you'd like to keep looking sharp. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Swiffer PowerMop Since I live in an NYC apartment, I don't have space for bulky cleaning supplies, which is why I've always opted for Swiffer's space-saving products. The PowerMop is an upgrade to the standard Swiffer Sweeper, with dirt-grabbing mop pads and a fresh-scented cleaning solution that you can spray with the push of a button. The mop itself is battery powered so you aren't hindered by long cords or the availability of outlets. It honestly makes cleaning up my floors a breeze, and I like that I can target specific spots with the spray. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets I got tired of trying to figure out whether or not my empty bottles of detergent are getting recycled, so I recently switched to these detergent sheets. They're very effective at cleaning my clothes, don't take up much space in my laundry closet and are easier to use — just grab a sheet and toss it in the washer! — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Swiffer Heavy-Duty Duster Refills I already have a Swiffer Duster handle, so now, I just buy duster refills whenever I empty a box. They do a great job at picking up dust, and because they're double-sided, I feel like I get more use out of one. The dusters I currently use are unscented, but I may need to pick up a box of scented ones the next time I run out. — Rachel Dennis, associate editor Febreze Fabric Extra Strength Air Freshener Having a pleasant-smelling abode is important to me, and after I've swept, wiped, straightened and vacuumed my living spaces, I like to metaphorically seal the deal by locking in the clean with this Febreze fabric spray. I use this liberally on my couch, carpets, curtains, bathmats and pillows to help everything feel extra fresh. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Suzanne Somers Suzanne Eco Cleaner Multi-Surface Duo Tons of cleaning products are made with a lot of chemicals, so finding an eco-friendly product that gets the job done isn't always an easy task. I started using this organic multi-surface cleaner and life has never been easier. I really love that you can use this for almost every household task, from your windows to even your car. It has a light and refreshing scent and makes my space smell clean without being too overpowering. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Here at Underscored, we make it our job to stay up to date on all the latest products, but we don't just find them; we also rigorously test products from hundreds of brands. In addition to hands-on testing products, we also consult top experts to understand what features, benefits and possible downsides each item offers. We also seek out important considerations and advice from our experts to help give you the information you need to make smarter shopping decisions. For this article, associate editor Jillian Tracy curated our editors' favorite cleaning products that help to keep our spaces spotless.
