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NBC News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- NBC News
Talking Shop with Peach & Lily founder Alicia Yoon
Talking Shop is our series where we talk to interesting people about their most interesting buys. Glass skin — you've either used the phrase yourself, seen TikToks about it or Googled how to achieve it. Rooted in K-beauty culture, 'glass skin' refers to a smooth, clear, practically poreless complexion, and while it's a concept that's been around forever, it wasn't trendy until a few years ago. Alicia Yoon, founder and CEO of Peach & Lily, is partially responsible for that. When the brand's Glass Skin Refining Serum came out in 2018, it sparked what she calls the glass skin movement. 'It went so viral, to the point where I actually had to write an e-book on it,' says Yoon. Just because you're the mastermind behind glass skin doesn't mean you're automatically blessed with it, however — Yoon struggles with eczema, keratosis pilaris and sensitive skin just like the rest of us. I talked to the esthetician-turned-entrepreneur about what products she keeps in her skin care (and hair care) routine at all times, in addition to her go-to Peach & Lily products. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. 'Joanna Vargas is a fellow esthetician, and she was the one person I actually really trusted before my wedding many moons ago to do my skin care,' says Yoon. 'She's very custom in how she does things, and she approaches things in a way that I knew my eczema-prone skin would be safe with her.' Yoon adds Joanna Vargas' The Daily Serum to her skin care routine occasionally, which she says is calming and hydrating since it's made hyaluronic acid. 'Because I have eczema, my body hydration situation is pretty intensive,' says Yoon. 'If it's super humid in Miami, I'll skip some of it, but most of the time, I need to lean into different things for different parts of my body.' She uses a handful of Peach & Lily's moisturizing products, as well as Nécessaire's The Body Lotion. 'It's fragrance-free and no-frills, so I use it head to toe,' says Yoon. 'These days, I've been using Live Tinted's Hueguard, which is a mineral SPF, daily,' says Yoon. 'It's lightweight, matches my skin tone and wears well throughout the day.' The broad-spectrum sunscreen is orange when you dispense it, which prevents it from leaving a white cast. It acts as a moisturizer and primer as well, and makes skin look glowy after application. 'The Soft Services Comfort Cleanse Body Wash is no-frills in the best way, especially when you have eczema' says Yoon. 'It doesn't smell, it doesn't irritate, it's mild, nothing hurts and I feel clean. The body wash has this little oil slip in it, which also helps with shaving. It acts as a two-in-on in that way.' 'When I talk to my friends about Osea's Undaria Algae Body Oil, they say it's too heavy for them, but my body just soaks it up,' says Yoon, who applies it to dry patches as needed in addition to her other favorite lotion. The body oil is infused with seaweed and helps moisturize and improve the look of skin elasticity, according to the brand. 'On beach days, I use the Ultra Violette Future Sunscreen, which is a mineral formula and makes me look glowy,' says Yoon. 'I've layered it over and over and it's quite nice.' The Australian brand's broad-spectrum, lightweight formula (which is one of our team's all-time favorite face sunscreens) is made with zinc, hydrating squalane and calming vitamin E. 'I was honestly a little bit skeptical about this at first because I haven't had great luck with a lot of the waterless shampoos out there, but this one actually leaves my hair very shiny and soft,' says Yoon. 'There's a learning curve because you only need to use a little product at a time, but it's really great, and it's creamy instead of watery. The packaging is sustainable and looks like a little aluminum paint tube, so it doesn't take up much room in your shower and it's easy to travel with.' 'I have naturally wavy hair that gets tangled very easily, and it's fine and brittle,' says Yoon. 'This conditioner is amazing because it gets all my tangles out before I air dry, and it leaves my hair behaving well no matter what the weather is. There's no fragrance in it — it's more like essential oils — so it's very light, airy and beautiful.' 'I've tried so many hair oils and serums because my hair is on the frizzier side, and ever since we moved to Miami last year, it's been out of control,' says Yoon. 'This is one of the most popular hair serums/oils in Korea, and it helps me control my hair without making it look heavy or greasy. The serum has argan, olive, coconut and apricot oils in it, but it doesn't feel oily. It leaves my hair looking shiny, and a little goes a long way. I also don't love heavily fragranced products, and while this has fragrance, it's very light, subtle and doesn't linger.' 'Living in Miami, we go to the beach a lot, and I love how my hair looks after that, so I try to replicate it,' says Yoon. 'When I want to add a little bit more texture to my hair and get that beachy wave, I'll use The Crown Affair Texturing Air Dry Mousse. It doesn't make my hair feel crunchy at all, so I get the look and feel I want.' 'I don't know if it's just me, but when I'm pregnant, my legs will start cramping — I'll literally wake up in the middle of the night because the cramping gets so bad,' says Yoon, who is currently expecting her third child. 'I massage this cream into my calves, which really minimizes cramping since it's made with magnesium chloride, and there's a peppermint version for your feet, too. It's very hydrating, but it's a little oily, so I use bed sheets I don't care about or apply it right before bed to give it time to absorb into my skin.' Why trust NBC Select? I'm a reporter at NBC Select who writes our Talking Shop series, interviewing people like Dorinda Medley, Jing Gao and Sara and Erin Foster. To write this piece, I interviewed Alicia Yoon, founder of Peach & Lily and Peach Slices, about her favorite skin, hair and body care products.
NBC News
3 days ago
- Business
- NBC News
Shopping 4th of July sales? Don't buy these three things, according to experts
While the Fourth of July is synonymous with watching fireworks, taking trips to the beach and barbecuing with loved ones, it's also a great time to shop Fourth of July sales this week. Deals are already live across retailers like Amazon, Target, Home Depot and REI, giving you the chance to save on items that are top of mind this season. 'July Fourth sales cater heavily to our summer lifestyles, offering huge savings on products that can satisfy our need for outdoor fun and comfort,' says Vipin Porwal, the CEO and a consumer savings expert at Smarty. For example, that air conditioner you're dreaming about or the chic bathing suit that's calling your name? It's likely discounted right now. Consumers plan to spend an average of $140 during Fourth of July sales this year, according to a recent survey from RetailMeNot. The key to saving is shopping strategically, so I put together this guide with tips about what to buy and skip, plus how July Fourth sales compare to Amazon Prime Day discounts. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. Should you shop early Fourth of July sales? Since July Fourth is happening within the next week, many retailers are already offering deals — and yes, you should shop early. 'Late June through July 5 is your prime window,' says Stephanie Carls, a shopping expert at RetailMeNot. There's no need to hold out for the actual holiday to take advantage of deals, especially since popular items sell out quickly. Shopping early gives you the best opportunity to find exactly what you're looking for in the ideal size and style, and it lets you spend time comparing prices across retailers, says Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, a shopping and savings strategist at Rakuten. Additionally, shopping early may mean you get to use the products you purchased during the July Fourth weekend, says Porwal. What to buy during Fourth of July sales A little bit of everything is on sale during the Fourth of July, but there's a few product categories you should focus on. I broke them down below and included examples of the types of deals you'll see this week. All products I recommend are at least 20% off and highly rated. Air conditioners and fans Many parts of the country are currently experiencing a heat wave with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees in some areas. If the heat and humidity are causing you to consider buying a new air conditioner or fan, now is the best time to do so. 'Inventory and selection decrease later in the summer, while prices go up, so you'll want to purchase sooner than later,' says Porwal. He recommends browsing deals from high quality A/C brands with lots of positive reviews to get the most value since window and portable units tend to be an expensive investment. Windmill, Midea, LG and Frigidare are some of our favorites. Outdoor furniture and patio decor July Fourth sales are the first time this year when retailers offer strong discounts on outdoor furniture and patio decor, including dining sets, lounge chairs, couches and umbrellas, says Carls. If you buy now, you have the rest of the summer to enjoy using your purchases. Popular styles tend to sell out quickly, and since July Fourth marks the transition from summer to pre-fall in the retail world, companies won't likely restock when seasonal items are gone, says Carls. That said, don't wait to check out if you fall in love with something. Grills Retailers won't offer the absolute best deals on grills until the end of the summer when they host clearance sales. But if you need a new one immediately, you'll find plenty of worthwhile discounts across models during July Fourth sales, says Carls. She recommends looking for grills on sale at big-box home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe's since they tend to have the most inventory and lowest prices. Hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, lawn games — whatever your favorite outdoor activity is, it likely involves some type of gear, which will be discounted during July Fourth sales, says Porwal. Specialty retailers like Dick's Sporting Goods and REI tend to have the best deals on these types of items, and you can expect to see discounts up to 30% off. Seasonal apparel and footwear Clothing and shoe stores like DSW, Gap, Old Navy and Foot Locker usually host sitewide sales around July Fourth, giving you the opportunity to refresh your warm weather wardrobe. Look for adult and kids activewear, bathing suits, beach attire and footwear like flip flops and sneakers between 20% and 40% off, says Porwal. Brands will discount seasonal apparel and footwear even more in the next few weeks, but overall, there's lots of lucrative deals during Fourth of July sales, says Carls. $19.99 $29.99 Amazon Now 33% off $19.99 $25.00 Walmart Now 20% off What to know Mattresses and bedding Strong mattress and bedding deals are a guarantee during Fourth of July sales, and they tend to rival Memorial Day's offerings. Pay attention to promotions from direct-to-consumer brands like Casper, Tempur-Pedic, Leesa and Avocado, as well as browsing deals at retailers like Mattress Firm, says Carls. We've historically seen deals over $800 off, and companies usually throw in a free gift with purchase, like pillows and bedding, or offer free haul-away and white-glove delivery services if you buy during the holiday weekend. Large home and kitchen appliances Fourth of July sales are a great time to buy appliances like refrigerators and dryers, especially because retailers want to get rid of last year's models to make room for newer inventory, says Gerstley. You can save even more when you buy multiple pieces together — you may unlock extra discounts or rebates if you're bundling appliances, like a washer and a dryer, or a dishwasher and a refrigerator, says Carls. She also recommends looking for delivery perks when you buy large home and kitchen appliances, like free shipping, installation and haul-away services. What to skip during July Fourth sales You won't see strong strong sales on the below product categories until later this year. Electronics: Hold off on buying tech like laptops, tablets and smart home devices until Amazon Prime Day, says Carls. She also doesn't recommend buying TVs until later this year — we see some of the best deals during Black Friday promotions. Back-to-school supplies: Deals on these types of items tend to start in early August and run through Labor Day, plus there's Sales Tax Holidays coming up in select states, many of which include back-to-school supplies, says Porwal. Fall apparel and footwear: Clothing and shoes like jeans, boots and jackets go on sale closer to the back-to-school season, so don't buy anything for your fall wardrobe just yet, says Porwal. Expert tips: How to save money while shopping Fourth of July sales Set a budget: Go into Fourth of July sales with a maximum amount of money you're comfortable spending, says Gerstley. Go in with a plan: Make a list of everything you want to buy ahead of time and get an idea of what they typically cost. 'Knowing what you actually need prevents you from being swayed by flashing markdowns,' says Gerstley. 'If you're on the fence about something, give yourself 48 hours to decide if you really want it or if it's an impulse buy.' Stack savings: Prioritize shopping from retailers that participate in cash back programs, and consider paying with credit cards that you earn points or cash back from. You can combine those rewards with the retailers' actual deals and promo codes, which lets you save more. Compare prices: Almost every brand and retailer hosts Fourth of July sales, so compare prices to see who has the lowest ones. 'Prices can vary a lot even within the same product category, especially for tech and appliances,' says Gerstley. If you're ordering online, compare shipping fees, too. Additionally, some retailers have price matching policies. Sign up for brands' newsletters and SMS lists: Companies keep shoppers updated about new price drops, limited-time deals, exclusive promo codes and early access to sales through newsletters and text programs, as well as their social media platforms. Use store-wide discounts: If you're shopping at a department or big-box store, you're likely filing your cart with products across categories. Some offer store-wide discounts, which can often help you save on products that might not be on sale individually elsewhere, says Porwal. Familiarize yourself with return policies: Most retailers don't have special return policies during sales, but double check to make sure. If something is a final sale, a retailer usually explicitly tells you. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select? I'm a reporter at NBC Select who's covered sales and deals for five years, including topics like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. To write this article, I interviewed three experts about what you should buy and skip during Fourth of July sales, and rounded up a handful of tips about how to save money while shopping.
NBC News
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- NBC News
REI 4th of July Sale: 19+ best deals to shop from Hoka, Saucony, Patagonia and more
REI's Fourth of July sale is officially here — it runs from June 27 to July 7 — which means that now is the best time to get tons of deals on everything you may want or need for the season. REI is a go-to retailer for outdoor essentials, running shoes, fitness, tech and more. It also sells items from premium brands like Hoka, Saucony, Patagonia and more. Below, I rounded up the best deals from REI's Fourth of July sale, including discounts on those brands and more. Plus, if you plan on doing lots of shopping at REI, you may also want to sign up for an REI membership, which provides a lot more benefits, like exclusive sales on premium brands and bonus gift cards. The membership costs $30 (which you pay once) and lasts a lifetime. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. The best deals from REI's Fourth of July sale in 2025 All of the deals below are from brands we've covered in the past or are ones that have at least a 4-star average rating from 50 reviews or more at REI. 4.5-star rating from 456 reviews at REI Hoka makes some of our favorite running and walking shoes, and that includes the Clifton 9. I tried out a sample of the Clifton 9 shoes and mainly used them for casual activities like walking to and from the train to get to work and walking around the park. These shoes have a great amount of cushioning on the bottoms and my feet felt incredibly comfortable for hours. They also provided excellent support for my medium-arch feet. Plus, the top of the shoes have a breathable mesh and it allows my feet to breathe as I move, preventing them from overheating. The soles also have strong traction, so I didn't have to worry about slipping on uneven ground. 4.2-star rating from 326 reviews at REI Lifestraw sells a popular portable filter that lets you safely drink water from outdoor water sources without consuming potentially harmful bacteria, like and chemicals like chlorine and pesticides, according to the brand. This option includes a similar filter with activated carbon, but since it's a bottle, you can use it to hold more than 20 ounces of clean filtered water. It has a flip-top straw lid and you can attach it to the side of your bag or belt loop. 4.4-star rating from 494 reviews at REI Garmin makes some of our favorite and most effective smartwatches and fitness trackers. The Instinct 2 Solar, which you can charge via solar power, is a combination of a GPS device and wellness monitor, since it can track your sleep habits, stress and heart activity, according to the brand. It has up to 28 days worth of battery life and it's thermal, shock and water resistant, up to 100 meters. 4.6-star rating from 236 reviews at REI The Teva Original Universal sandals have a simple but extremely functional design. The sandals have adjustable straps, foam midsoles, arch support and the top material dries fast, so you can wear them in different types of environments. 4.4-star rating from 461 reviews at REI The Saucony Tempus road-running shoes, which are made of a mixture of EVA foam and recycled polyester, have medium cushioning on the bottoms and the tops are made of breathable mesh to help keep your feet cool and dry as you run. The top of the midsoles also have extra support to keep your feet stable and comfortable as they hit the ground with each stride. 4.4-star rating from 60 reviews at REI This protective sun hat has a UPF 40 rating, which means that it blocks around 98% of harmful ultraviolet rays that cause skin damage and sunburns. It's ideal for wearing to the beach, lounging poolside or for staying outside for hours on end at a sports game. It's made of a lightweight straw-style, polyester material and is available in more than five designs. 4.8-star rating from 178 reviews at REI The flexible running shorts have an adjustable waistband and a drawcord, making them ideal for outdoor activities, including swimming, as well as casual wear, according to the brand. There are two side pockets as well as a back pocket and the shorts have a five-inch inseam. 4.7-star rating from 115 reviews at REI Polarized glasses help protect your eyes from sunlight but they also make it much easier to see on those super bright days. Each of the lenses are made of polarized glass, which enhances your eyesight and helps you see more clearly by reducing glare, according to the brand. The lenses also have a smudge-resistant coating and non-slip pads on the nose bridge to prevent them from sliding off your face. 4.5-star rating from 90 reviews at REI These Adidas running shoes have maximum cushioning on the soles, providing extra comfort and support as your feet hit the ground. The tops of the shoes are made of a layered mesh material that makes the shoes breathable while also keeping the top of your feet comfortable. 4.4-star rating from 134 reviews at REI This REI Co-op base layer is a half-zip, which allows you to open it up during warmer days or you can zip it up during colder moments. It's made of a flexible polyester and spandex material that makes it great to wear as the base layer during hikes or for outdoors. The sleeves also have thumb loops to keep your hands warm and flat seams for more comfortable wear, according to the brand. 4.3-star rating from 7,795 review at REI The super popular Stanley tumbler is popular for a reason — it keeps drinks ice cold for hours, up to 12 or more in my experience. The Quencher has a comfortable rounded handle and a sturdy straw that doesn't get warped over time. The bottom also makes it easy to fit in the cup holder of a car, treadmill or backpack. Plus, it's available in tons of styles so you can find one that fits your preferences. Why trust NBC Select? I'm a commerce editor at NBC Select, where I regularly cover deals and sale events at REI and other similar retailers. I've also written about REI's membership benefits and details. I researched deals across REI's site for this story.
NBC News
5 days ago
- Health
- NBC News
The best dog training treats have three things in common — experts break them down
As someone who recently adopted a new puppy, I can say with certainty that dog training can feel like a Herculean feat. Teaching my pet to sit, stay, go potty outside and sleep in her crate took patience, determination and a ton of treats. But not every dog treat makes a great training tool — you need to use something your pup is excited to work for so they stay focused, engaged and ready to learn, says Daris Cooper, the national dog training manager at Petco. (Ed's note: The inclusion of products sold by Petco in this article was made independently of Cooper.) To help you pick the best dog training treats, I talked to experts about what to consider while shopping. Using their guidance, I rounded up some of the top options, most of which come recommended by NBC Select dog parents. Experts also explain how to incorporate treats into training, and how to avoid the number one training mistake they see pet parents make. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. How I picked the best dog training treats 'Typically in training, we want to use a treat that hits the three S's: small, soft and stinky,' says Jamie Popper, the head dog trainer at Woof. Below, learn why that's what you should look for while shopping for dog training treats, plus other factors to keep in mind. Small size: 'During reward-based training, you want to get several repetitions of the behavior in a short amount of time,' says Popper. 'Using a small treat allows the dog to quickly consume it and move on to the next repetition.' Soft texture: A soft texture also makes treats easy for dogs to quickly consume, says Popper. You can break them up into small pieces if needed, too. Strong scent: The 'stinkier' the treat, the more motivating and appetizing it is for your dog, says Popper. If you can smell the treat, it's sure to get your dog's attention. Low-calorie: While training, it's important to frequently reward your dog without overdoing it, says Cooper. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's total daily calories, so be sure to choose a low-calorie option. The nutrition label on the back of treats' packaging provides information about calories per serving. Ingredients: Prioritize buying treats made from simple, high-quality ingredients, says Cooper. If you can pronounce all the ingredients on the nutrition label, it's a good sign, says Popper. Whether you're feeding your pet treats from a bag or dog-safe human foods, avoid anything that's seasoned, fatty, high in sodium or toxic to dogs, including onions, garlic, grapes and artificial sweeteners like xylitol. Variety: Over time, dogs can get bored of snacking on the same treat. 'Variety is the spice of life, so mixing up your reinforcers can be really helpful throughout the training process,' says Cooper. Over time, you'll figure out what your dog 'likes' versus 'loves' — as you do so, Cooper suggests saving extra special treats they love for big wins and lighter, slightly less exciting treats they like for everyday training practice. The best dog training treats To recommend the best dog training treats, I curated a list of options that align with expert guidance, are suitable for pets of all ages and come in resealable bags, which help make sure they stay fresh for as long as possible. I've used many of the treats below with my dogs, and some come recommended by NBC Select dog parents. These oven-baked, soft and chewy treats are specifically made to use while training, and they've been a go-to for me over the years. I put them in a pouch that attaches to my 6-month old puppy Mabel's leash to reward her on walks, and I keep a bag at home to practice basic commands like sit, stay and leave it. Since the bite-sized treats come in multiple flavors, all of which have a strong scent, I've always been able to find one my pet likes and alternate between a few types to keep things interesting. In addition to the duck and blueberry flavor, you can buy beef and cheddar, chicken and pumpkin, peanut butter and bacon, and peanut butter and carob treats. Any time I've brought my dog to a trainer, they've used these treats during sessions. They're only made from one ingredient, freeze-dried beef liver, so they're safe for most pets with sensitive stomachs and allergies, according to the brand. The treats aren't uniform in size — there's small, medium and large pieces inside the bag, so I usually break them up as I give them to my dog. They're on the crunchy side, but still easy for pets to eat quickly. In addition to using beef liver treats for training, I hide them inside puzzle toys and snuffle mats to keep my dog occupied. Since these soft and chewy treats are so tiny, they're best for small dogs. NBC Select updates editor Mili Godio fed them to her dog Bella as a puppy and still uses them seven years later — Bella weighs about 20 pounds full-grown, but when Godio brought her home she was less than 10 pounds. The treats are made with aromatic ingredients to attract pets, like rosemary, blueberries, dandelion and cranberries, and you can buy them in four flavors: bacon, beef, chicken and duck and bacon. Each bag comes with hundreds of treats, so it lasts a very long time, says Godio. I grew up raising dogs like labrador retrievers, golden retrievers and German shepherds, who, even as puppies, were big. During training sessions, they were more motivated by larger treats compared to bite-sized ones, so my family often bought options like these beef tenders and broke strips up into a few pieces. The tenders have a soft texture and a strong smell that my dogs detect the minute I open the bag. In addition to beef tenders, these treats are available in chicken and duck options. Best for picky eaters When I brought my puppy home, she wasn't food motivated whatsoever, which made training difficult. I tried a handful of treats to entice her, but she often sniffed them and walked away. My local pet store recommended I try freeze-dried rabbit treats — since rabbit isn't a protein that's often in kibble, dogs usually find it more exciting to snack on. I bought Holi's rabbit treats and they worked like magic. They have a scent that my dog is drawn to, are soft yet crunchy and have a small cube shape. Best meaty My puppy loves Honest Kitchen's Goat's Milk N' Cookies, but they aren't great for training because they have a hard, crunchy texture and can be challenging to break into small pieces. Since she's a fan of the brand, I bought these Meaty Littles treats, which were an instant hit during training sessions. The bite-sized, disc-shaped pieces are chewy and tender, plus they have a strong scent. You can buy them in two flavors: beef and salmon, and chicken and shrimp. When I'm leash training Mabel, I keep one of these stick treats in my pocket and break off small pieces for her as we walk. She wasn't always confident on walks and would often stop halfway down the block, so frequently rewarding her with these treats encourages her to keep going, and reinforces behaviors like walking by my side and not chewing on the leash. The stick treats look and feel similar to the beef jerky sticks that humans eat, and they were easy for Mabel to bite into, even with her tiny baby teeth. You can buy them in flavors like lamb, salmon, beef, chicken and bacon. What human foods are safe to give dogs as treats? You don't have to solely rely on pre-packaged treats for training. Experimenting with dog-safe human foods, like the ones experts recommend below, is also an option. Picky eaters may respond better to dog-safe human foods, and they're a great way to mix things up during training sessions, says Cooper. Talk to your vet if you have questions, especially if your dog has allergies or food sensitivities. How to use treats while training your dog 'Treats are one of the most powerful tools in your training toolkit,' says Cooper. 'They can help to motivate your dog, reinforce behaviors you want to see continue and make learning fun.' However, you have to use them strategically. Below, experts share some do's and don'ts to keep in mind while incorporating treats into training sessions. Don't use treats as a bribe: 'Treats should be used as a reward after the behavior has occurred,' says Popper. 'A common mistake pet owners make is using treats as a bribe.' For example, many pet owners shake a treat bag if their dog refuses to come inside from the yard, signaling that they'll get a reward. But dogs pick up on that pattern and may not come unless you prove you have a treat first, says Popper. Timing is everything: 'Reward the behavior you're looking for the moment it happens so your dog clearly connects the action with the reward,' says Cooper. If you wait too long, they're unlikely to make the association. Don't just rely on treats: 'One common misstep I see is relying too heavily on treats without pairing them with verbal praise or other rewards like play or affection,' says Cooper. 'The ultimate goal is for your dog to respond because they want to connect with you, not just because food is involved.' Make your dog work for treats: 'When pet parents hand out treats randomly or without asking for a behavior in return, their dog can get confused or start expecting rewards without doing the work,' says Cooper. Give treats out purposefully so your dog understands that they have to earn them by doing something else first, like sitting, staying or waiting. Frequently asked questions Are dog training treats different from standard treats? While training your dog, it's important to use high value treats, meaning those that cause your pet to get excited about training. Your dog determines what they consider high value — use the three S's (small, soft and stinky) as a baseline, but try a few options and see what they respond best to. That said, you can use anything as a training treat, be it pre-packaged bites or cheese cubes. 'If you've found a treat your dog loves, it's approved by your vet and it fits within the 10% daily calorie guideline for treats, it's likely to be a solid go-to reward for training throughout their life,' says Cooper. If possible, however, avoid biscuit and cookie treats for training sessions. 'They take longer to consume and can sometimes leave behind distracting crumbs,' says Popper. What are the benefits of training your dog with treats? Using treats to train your dog is one of the most effective ways to teach them new or complex behaviors, says Cooper. Most dogs are instinctually food-motivated, so when you use treats to reward good behavior, they become more likely to repeat the action. Rewarding your dog for good behavior, rather than punishing them for bad behavior, is the basis of positive reinforcement-based training. 'It helps create clear communication, build a stronger bond and encourages focus and engagement,' says Popper. 'Training dogs to do what we want — rather than simply managing or punishing undesirable behaviors — creates an active and willing companion.' How many treats can dogs have during training? As a rule of thumb, treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet's total daily calories, says Cooper. Consult your vet about specific recommendations for your dog based on their age, breed, activity level and overall health status. If you're worried about giving your dog too many treats during training, you have two options: Make mealtime a training opportunity: Save training sessions for breakfast, lunch or dinner and use your dog's kibble as their reward. Kibble with fish as the main protein source usually meets the small and stinky criteria, and any air-dried or freeze-dried food also tends to be enticing, says Popper. Cut portion sizes during meals: On training-heavy days, decrease your dog's dinner portion to prevent overfeeding them, says Popper. How long should you use training treats for? 'Training treats are a must-have for every stage of your dog's life,' says Cooper. 'Even once your dog masters basic cues, ongoing training helps reinforce desired behaviors and keeps them mentally and physically stimulated.' So long as they're compatible with their diet, you can usually use the same training treats for your dog from puppy age to adulthood. But as pets age, you can incorporate treats with added benefits into training sessions, like those made with ingredients to target hip and joint support or anxiety, says Popper. Additionally, once your dog reliably understands a cue and the paired behavior, you can gradually mix in other reinforcers, like toys, praise and play, says Cooper. That way, they're still being rewarded for their good behavior, but you're not giving them as many treats a day. Can you train your dogs without treats? Yes, you can train your dog without treats, and sometimes, you have to. Some dogs aren't food-motivated and may respond better to rewards like verbal praise, pets, toys or play. 'Your pup will decide if the treat, toy or verbal and/or physical praise is reinforcing — not you,' says Cooper. 'The key is to find what excites your dog and use that to make training fun and rewarding.' Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select? I'm a reporter at NBC Select (and a dog owner) who has written about pet products since 2020, including outdoor dog beds, cat toys, flea treatments and dog sunscreen. To write this article, I interviewed two experts about how to shop for dog training treats. Using their guidance, I rounded up the best options, including those recommended by NBC Select staff.
NBC News
6 days ago
- General
- NBC News
The 10 best fans to keep you cool: tower, pedestal, desk, and more
If you don't have an air conditioner or want to reduce your time using the one you do have, a fan is a great alternative. And its benefits extend beyond helping you regulate a room's temperature, says Carl Prouty, tech expert at Abt Electronics. '[Fans are] much quieter than window or wall air conditioners and they use far less energy, so their operating costs are much lower,' he says. They're also often more portable than air conditioners, so you can easily move them between rooms and bring them on the go. Want more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. How I picked the best fans I talked to an expert about how to decide between various styles and highlighted features to consider while shopping. I also rounded up a handful of fans across styles and price points according to expert guidance. Fan type and size: Deciding which type of fan to purchase largely depends on where you're using it and how large a space you want to keep cool. Size also matters—bigger fans will circulate air throughout rooms, while smaller fans might just cool you down. Fan speeds: If you like to adjust the intensity of airflow coming from your fan, consider purchasing one with multiple speeds so you have options. Oscillation: This refers to the fan's ability to circulate air across a room. If you're trying to cool down a larger space, oscillation can help. Price: More expensive fans tend to have more bells and whistles, while lower-priced options are usually more basic in design. Best fans to keep you cool To help guide your shopping, I highlighted a handful of the best fans across various styles, including larger fans designed to cool entire rooms, tabletop and handheld options for personal use. For each model, I pointed out specs that might aid in narrowing down the best options, including oscillation, smart features, types of filters, modes and more. Best tower fans Built with an 8-hour timer, this fan has a hidden handle you can grip around your home. The fan also has a touchscreen display, which allows you to switch between modes easily. To help you eliminate dust accumulating over time, the fan comes apart so you can reach all its nooks and crannies. This tower fan has a twisted vent, which allows air to circulate in your room without constant oscillation. Plus, you can choose from four strengths and eight timing options. NBC Select commerce editor Cory Fernandez has used a Vornado tower fan for years and loves how strong it is. 'It's actually surprisingly powerful for a tower fan,' he says. 'It keeps me cool on super hot and humid summer days.' This portable fan has three flexible legs that you can bend and wrap around beach umbrellas, shelves, strollers and more. You can also stand it up and place it on a flat surface. The fan has a rechargeable battery and you can choose from three fan speeds. This personal neck fan is a favorite of NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin. 'This fan may be small, but it's powerful. Even on the lowest setting, it blows a steady stream of cool air toward my face and neck,' says Malin. The Comlife neck fan has three airflow speeds, and you can also adjust the airflow angle by twisting the silicone piece at the back of your neck. Depending on which airflow speed you choose, a full battery gives you between three and a half to nine hours of use, according to the brand. Best desk fans My office tends to get hot in the morning, so I keep this on my desk to cool me down. It takes up minimal space, but it's very powerful. I like the adjustable tilt head and manual swivel base, which allow me to angle the fan perfectly in my direction. I bought this fan years ago and it's still as good as new. Vornado also offers a retro, vintage-looking fan with an adjustable tilted head so you can easily change the airflow direction. This small fan is great for keeping on your desk at work during the summer or on any chair outside. The fan can fold flat when it's not in use and it has a built-in handle. You can also manually adjust the fan's angle. You can install this two-fan system in your window, just like an air conditioner, except it's much lighter and easier to secure. The fan comes with a remote to control the temperature and speed setting. The fan also comes with adjustable panels on the side, so you can ensure it fits in your window properly. This is built with an auto timer that shuts the fan off after 7.5 hours. You can also adjust its height and tilt angle. There are three speed settings and an LED display to help you keep track of your preferred fan speed and rotation settings. While this fan is a more basic, low-tech option, reporter Harry Rabinowitz says it works well, and he's used it for years. The fan is designed with a tilt-back head, allowing you to direct airflow upward or downward if you'd like to. It also has a wide base for stability. Best ceiling fan This ceiling fan, designed with five blades, also has a built-in dimmable light. If you get too cold, the brand says you can reverse the fan's blades to push warm air (which tends to rise to the top of rooms) downward. You can mount the fan in either a straight or angled position. Types of fans to consider When shopping for the right fan, decide whether to cool off yourself or a whole room. Household fans are usually needed when a space doesn't have air conditioning or a central air system. On the other hand, handheld fans are ideal for personal use, especially for travelers, those who work outside or want a burst of cool air while on the move. Here are the fan types you should know about, as well as the purpose of each: Ceiling fans are permanently installed on a room's ceiling. They move air around to keep rooms cool — during colder months, you can often reverse the airflow to circulate warm air. In addition to indoor ceiling fans, you can purchase models specifically designed for outdoor use on porches or under pergolas. Some also incorporate lights. Tower fans — sometimes called floor fans — are portable units designed to move from room to room. They're tall and narrow, so you can usually fit them in small spaces. Window fans sit in window frames, similar to air conditioning units. However, experts told us they use less energy and are easier to set up than window AC units. They bring in cold air from outside and are often more effective than traditional fans at cooling larger spaces. Remember that window fans must be removed when it gets cold out and can cause leaks when it rains. Desk fans are personal fans that attach to or stand upright on tables. Since you can also place them on top of a counter, bedside table or end table, you might also see them referred to as table fans. You can put these next to you while working, sleeping or watching TV on the couch. Pedestal fans are designed similarly to desk fans, but their base is at ground level. Stand-up fans are typically larger and taller than desk fans and create a stronger breeze, though they're still portable. Handheld fans are another type of personal fan. Due to their small size, they won't cool you off as well as other options, but they're convenient since they're cordless and portable. How to shop for fans Once you decide what type of fan you're interested in, consider whether the following features are important. Identify your must-haves in a fan and look for models that include those features. Remote controls: You can adjust the settings wherever you are in a room. Smart features: Some models have Wi-Fi compatibility, while others pair with a companion app, which allows you to control the fan, review air quality and usage reports and more from your phone. Fans may also connect to voice-activated smart devices for hands-free use. Filters: Similar to air purifiers, some fans come with filters that can remove allergens like dust or pet hair. For example, you may see fans built with HEPA filters, which pull out tiny particles from the air, or charcoal filters, which can eliminate odors. Before purchasing a fan, consider how often you'll need to replace the filter and how much the replacement filters cost. Oscillation: This refers to a fan's ability to move from side to side or up and down, thus moving air in multiple directions across a room. This helps the fan circulate cool air throughout a space instead of directing it into one spot. Modes: While some fans only allow you to manually program their settings, others have a variety of modes designed for different circumstances. Some have an auto mode, for example, which can adjust to a room's air quality or light, and others have a sleep mode that can dim an LED display. Meet our expert At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Carl Prouty is a tech expert at Abt Electronics. Why trust NBC Select?
