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New York Times
9 hours ago
- Health
- New York Times
4th of July Sales Are Already Happening. Here Are the Best Deals Available.
Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter To keep your skin looking dewy and protected, this formula spreads easily without leaving behind a white cast, even on darker skin tones. It goes on like a makeup primer and won't look oily or sticky if reapplied over makeup throughout the day. Other things to know: Water-resistant up to 40 minutes. Greasy texture (like a watery petroleum jelly) may be off-putting to some. Pricey. This deal doesn't beat the rare single-day 50%-off sale, but it's still a great value. Price reflects in cart with free Bluemercury account. Read more: The Best Sunscreens for Your Face Supergoop Every. Single. Face. Watery Lotion This broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen soaks into dry skin to hydrate while it protects. It can also serve as a good primer for dewy makeup looks without being oily or greasy. At just 1.7 ounces, it's not cheap, but one bottle is surprisingly long-lasting. Other things to know: Very watery. If you prefer a more matte look or have oily skin, this is probably not the sunscreen for you. Sweat-resistant up to 40 minutes. Price reflects in cart; a free Bluemercury account is required for free shipping. Read more: The Best Sunscreens for Your Face Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 (18 ounces) Other things to know: Rated SPF 50. None of Wirecutter's testers experienced a white cast, but some reported that it left them feeling greasy. The 18-ounce jug is the most affordable size on a per-ounce basis. Price reflects in cart; a free Bluemercury account is required for free shipping. Read more: Supergoop Sunscreen Is Worth the Splurge EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser This cloud-like cleanser feels light, luxurious, and mild on your hands and face. Its sulfate-free soft foam formula fully removes dirt and grime and leaves your face feeling deeply clean but not at all stripped. One pump produces a dollop that's just the right amount for face-washing. $35 $28 from EltaMD Other things to know: Pretty pricey. 5-ounce bottle. Contains 28 ingredients, making it harder to determine if one of them triggers a sensitivity or irritation. Mostly fragrance-free, with slight hints of coconut and medicine. At the EltaMD site, use promo code SKIN20 to get the deal price. Read more: The Best Facial Cleansers Imagine a piece of carry-on luggage with the durability and insulation of a rolling hard cooler. Unlike our top rolling-cooler pick, the Yeti Tundra, the Roadie has a telescoping handle that changes its center of gravity, which may make it easier to maneuver in some situations. Other things to know: It's in our cooler guide's Competition section, but we like it at a deep discount. Typically pricier than the Tundra, and the difference in maneuverability wasn't immediately clear during tests. Holds 76 cans versus the Tundra's 82. Price reflects in cart. Read more: The Best Coolers Yeti Camino 35 Carryall Tote Other things to know: A touch larger than our top pick, but a similar capacity. Its interior pockets are zippered, and zippers don't play well with sand. The smaller-size Camino 20 is also on sale. At REI, membership is required; single-use discount on full-price Yeti item reflects in cart. Read more: The Best Beach Bag REI Co-op Wonderland 6 Tent A redesign of REI's beloved Kingdom 6, this is a spacious, wagon-shaped tent with a massive interior and a room-divider for added privacy. The updated pole design has increased stability against wind, the only major weakness of the old model. $500 $350 from REI Other things to know: Partial fly. No vestibule but an attachable mudroom sold separately. Already-large tent may not be ideal at campsites with limited space. We are still in the process of long-term testing. Read more: The Best Camping Tents Connie Park/NYT Wirecutter With a robust polycarbonate outer shell, aluminum corner guards, and an aluminum frame around the center seam that reinforces the body of the luggage, this isn't just a trunk — it's a traveling fortress. The two TSA locks close with a satisfying latch. Other things to know: Due to the design, some travelers consider trunks to be easier to pack and to maneuver. Does away with the standard zipper closure. Doesn't have a ton of built-in organization. Lifetime warranty. Use code WIRECUTTER. Read more: The Best Suitcases for Checking Away The Trunk This trunk has a clamshell design similar to that of the Monos Hybrid, for a similar price — but it has a zipper, instead of latches. It's available in 14 colors. Other things to know: Ideal if you prefer zippers over latch closures or you want a trunk to match your other Away luggage. We're fans of Away's luggage generally, but this trunk doesn't feel as robust or satisfying to use as our Monos pick. Enter your email address at the top of the sale page to generate a single-use discount code. Read more: The Best Suitcases for Checking Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Backpacks A great starter option for one-bag travel, this backpack is simple to pack and the easiest to carry of all our picks. It's built for travel but designed for hiking, so you'll be comfy on journeys by trail or TSA. $185 $120 from Amazon With a slightly smaller capacity and lower shoulder straps, the Fairview 40 is a great carry-on backpack for people with smaller torsos. It's just as durable and well made as the Farpoint 40, and the slight design difference doesn't change the fact that it's the easiest bag to carry out of all of our picks. Other things to know: Backed by Osprey's excellent lifetime warranty. Capacity is a little less spacious than it seems. Laptop and tech gear pocket isn't positioned directly against your back, shifting the center of gravity and making some loads feel heavier than they should. Lifetime warranty. The Fairview is on sale for $1 more at REI. Read more: The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks Tommy John Air Mesh Mid-Length Boxer Brief 6" (add five) Travel can be uncomfortable, but these boxer briefs won't be. Quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and easy to wash on the go, they felt like a fine-tailored garment and moved with the body, scoring higher than any other pair we tested. We loved the front pouch, which lacks seams that can chafe. Other things to know: Leg length is 6 inches, 2 inches shorter than that of our official pick version, but it's otherwise the same. Fly opens from the top, not the side. Deal price is on five single pairs; add five pairs to cart and use code WCSUMMER. Read more: The Best Underwear for Travel Maki Yazawa/NYT Wirecutter For cooking simple microwave dishes quickly and reheating leftovers well, we like these glass containers. Their airtight, leakproof lids each have a venting knob that you can open or close to capture or release steam as needed, and their rounded metal edges are safe for the microwave. You can store leftovers in the same dish, so cleanup is easy. $60 $45 from Anyday For college students with dorm microwaves, small-kitchen cooks, or meal-prepping aficionados, this square glass cookware can be great for cooking simple microwave dishes and reheating leftovers, as well as storing food. Each airtight, leakproof lid has a venting knob that you can open or close to capture or release steam as needed. $106 $75 from Anyday Other things to know: Dishwasher-, oven-, and freezer-safe. Not ideal for developing more-complex flavors. Each set includes two glass containers and their corresponding lids; use promo code WCROUND to get the deal price on the round set or WCSQUARE to get the deal price on the square set. Read more: These Glass Containers Made Me Hate the Microwave a Little Less Vornado ARA Oscillating Tower Fan Quiet and reliable, this tower fan has an energy-efficient DC-powered motor that moves air at up to nearly 13 mph on high. It also works as a lamp, providing pleasant and warm ambient lighting. We don't usually like tower fans, but this one surprised us. $250 $190 from Wayfair Use promo code WIRECUTTER Other things to know: Expensive. Not easy to clean. Comes with Vornado's reliable five-year warranty. Use promo code WIRECUTTER. Read more: I've Tested Dozens of Tower Fans. And I Hated Every Single One of Them — Until Now. Windmill AC with WhisperTech Other things to know: You can't open your window while using it. Typically more expensive than our top pick, and a little louder. Window support bracket not included. You can't control the direction of the fan. Use code WIRECUTTER25 to get the deal price, which includes shipping. Read more: The Best Air Conditioner Blu Dot Cache Sofa Generously cushioned, this cute tubular-aluminum-framed outdoor sofa comes fully assembled and built to last (ours from 2021 still looks practically new). The sturdy, rounded cushions are upholstered with durable Sunbrella fabric over a dry-fast, mildew-resistant foam. $4495 $3147 from Blu Dot Other things to know: The foam can be a little noisy. Cushion covers are not removable, but have been easy to wipe down in our experience. Five-year warranty. Use code WCSUMMER. Read more: Our Favorite Outdoor Sofas and Chairs Ring Alarm (2nd Generation) 14-piece home security system kit Reliable and fast, this easy-to-use security system also works with Amazon Alexa and other Ring devices, plus add-ons like cameras. It also offers the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to professional monitoring and 24/7 customer service. $300 $200 from Amazon Other things to know: Does not include a built-in Eero router, as the Pro model does. Optional Ring Protect Pro monitoring plan is $20 per month. Kit includes one base station, two keypads, eight contact sensors, two motion detectors, and one range extender. Amazon Prime membership required. Read more: The Best Home Security System Connie Park/NYT Wirecutter Linen sheets can be a game-changer for hot sleepers, and our longtime favorite set is durable, breathable, and one of the softest we've tested. The set includes a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and two pillowcases, but you can also purchase by the piece. $445 $351 from Cultiver Use promo code WCSUMMER (queen) Other things to know: Like any linen sheets, these wrinkle easily. More limited sizing than sheets from other brands. No warranty, and a pretty standard 30-day return policy. Deal price is for the queen size, but all sizes are discounted with code WCSUMMER. Street price has risen in recent months. Read more: The Best Linen Sheets 280-Thread-Count Pima Cotton Percale Sheet Set (queen) With a durable construction that only gets softer with each wash, it's no surprise these supple sheets have ranked among our favorites for years. They remain the most crisp and breathable percale sheets we've tested. $169 $144 from Other things to know: Percale can feel too textured to those who prefer smooth, drapey sateen sheets. Not Oeko-Tex–certified. Set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. One-year return policy. Code WCSUN15 can apply to all sizes, and all sizes qualify for free shipping. Read more: The Best Cotton Sheets Connie Park/NYT Wirecutter Meet the best sub-$50 earbuds we've tried. They have impressive sound and features for the price, as well as an IPX7 dust- and water-resistance rating and high-quality background-noise-reducing microphones that rival those of more expensive models. $40 $26 from Amazon Other things to know: They lack active noise cancellation and a hear-through mode. Sound quality isn't as balanced as that of our top pick. Use code EAFRE2SF to get the deal. We once saw a $16 lightning deal for these earbuds, but we doubt they'll drop that low again. Read more: The Best Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds Samsung The Frame QN65LS03DAFXZA LCD TV (2024 model, 65-inch) Want a TV that isn't just another big black box? The Frame is a great option for people who prefer a living room that doesn't look like it's dedicated to television. Although it resembles a framed piece of art when not in use, it still delivers the same bright, excellent image quality as many of Samsung's upper-tier QLED TVs. Other things to know: A subscription is necessary to access the full range of art options but not required for regular TV functionality. This is the 2024 model. It comes with a one-year Samsung parts-and-labor limited warranty, and free shipping for Amazon Prime members. Read more: The Frame Is a Delightful TV That Transforms Into Artwork Eero 6 Wi-Fi router (one unit) This compact router is easy to set up and smoothly delivers solid internet performance, even while several people are using the connection. It's also one of the easiest routers to hide, on account of its tiny size. You can expand its network by adding Eero extenders or routers or Echo Dot speakers. Other things to know: Slower overall than our top pick for heavy downloaders and gamers. Most suitable if you're subscribed to a low- to mid-tier internet plan (under 500 Mbps). Two Ethernet ports. Read more: The Best Wi-Fi Routers Marki Williams/NYT Wirecutter Our testers gave these versatile Levi's the highest overall score among straight-leg styles — even over pricey high-end options. They're not only comfy, booty-flattering, well-made, and under $100, but also made in a wide range of sizes and three inseams. The cotton-elastane blend is structured but fits comfortably on the first wear. Other things to know: Testers with more defined waists found these jeans true to size; others should consider sizing up. Deal available on select washes: Space to Think, Christina, and Neither Here Nor There. Free Red Tab membership required for free shipping. Read more: The Best Women's Jeans Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra This smooth, stretchy bralette actually comfortably supports large breasts without any metal wires, clasps, or sliders — a near-miracle. Its high-back design and seamless edges create smooth contours, the sizing was spot-on, and we like that it's soft enough for lounging and supportive enough for active days. $98 $65 from Evelyn Bobbie Use promo code WIRECUTTER Other things to know: Not the cutest, and not ideal for low-cut or strappy tops. Some testers found it too hot and stifling. Not the easiest to pull on. Removable cups may slip out in the wash. Sizes S to 3XL (C to K cup, 30- to 52-inch band). Use code WIRECUTTER. Read more: The Best, Most Comfortable Bras Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra (pack of three) A pleasure to wear all day long, this comfy underwire bra creates a smooth, defined silhouette. It's set apart by small details, such as the strap-adjustment sliders' location on the front, which allows the wearer to easily move them up and down without having to reach behind their back. Other things to know: We wish it came in more sizes beyond 32A to 42F. Straps are thinner than those of our other picks, and for people with heavier breasts, they may dig into the shoulders. Add three bras to cart and use code WCSUMMER to get the discount on the tan, brown, or black color, plus free shipping. Read more: The Best, Most Comfortable Bras Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette The thoughtful details of its wire-free pull-on design and adjustable straps make this comfy bralette tough to beat. The silky, pleasantly stretchy microfiber fits like a second skin, and the plunging neckline and low back work with a variety of tops but still provide ample coverage. $45 $27 from Harper Wilde Other things to know: Medium support may not be substantial enough if you have heavier, larger breasts. Lacks full nipple coverage. Doesn't provide much shaping. Available in sizes XS to 5XL. On sale in steel and tan with code WCSUMMER. Read more: The Best, Most Comfortable Bras ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra This pretty plunge bra is a sexy, supportive option offering outstanding comfort. It comes with removable push-up pads for a little extra oomph and is available in larger band sizes and half sizes. Other things to know: May not be supportive enough for larger busts. Sizes AA to H cup (including some half-cup sizes) and 32- to 44-inch band; not every cup size is offered for every band size. On sale in rose dust, amethyst, or coral with code LUV-WIRECUTTER. Read more: The Best Bras Saxx Non-Stop Stretch Cotton Boxer Brief (pack of three) Other things to know: Waistband is as close to perfect as we've found, but it rolled in certain situations. Machine-washable. Comes in sizes XS to XXL, with a 5-inch inseam. Use code PR-WCTRAVEL to get the deal price for a three-pack. Read more: The Best Men's Boxer Briefs Editor's note: The photo at the top of this article may reflect previous deals that are no longer valid and have been removed. Check out our Deals page for more great discounts on Wirecutter's expert-approved picks. This article was edited by Janie Campbell and Nathan Burrow. Here's what the Wirecutter Deals team is looking for when they hunt for the best prices on Wirecutter picks every day of the week. The Wirecutter Deals team breaks down a few simple ways to save money all year long.
New York Times
10 hours ago
- General
- New York Times
As Wirecutter's Mattress Reviewer, I Sleep for a Living. It's Harder Than It Sounds.
Before we call in mattresses to test in person, we narrow down a list of hundreds of potential contenders. To do this, we build massive spreadsheets and sort them for about a dozen key specifications depending on the kind of mattress we're testing, such as memory-foam densities, polyfoam densities, coil counts, coil gauge, height, weight, materials, and price, to name just a few. Foam density is one of the most important factors we consider before we start testing, and it's a good example of how these specs help us focus our testing. This metric, expressed in pounds per cubic foot, or PCF, can apply to two kinds of foam used in mattresses. Memory foam is the dense, body-contouring foam that lets you sink into the mattress. Non-memory-foam polyfoam, which is lighter, springier, and less body-contouring than memory foam, is usually used in the mattress's topmost layer or in a transition layer between the top comfort layer and the firmer, more supportive core at the bottom. For both of these foam types, we typically look for denser foams, with a minimum memory-foam density of 3 PCF and a minimum non-memory-foam polyfoam density of 1.8 PCF. Wirecutter journalists visit mattress factories and showrooms. Caira Blackwell, Lisa Fischer, and Hali Potters/ NYT Wirecutter We consider only those mattresses with denser foams for a couple of reasons. First, as we've learned from foam engineers, denser foams are more durable. That means they can withstand years of use without forming those uncomfortable permanent indents and impressions of your body over time. Second, many people who shop for foam mattresses want a certain sensation. The denser the foam, the more you feel like the mattress is hugging you — it melts slowly like butter under your body's weight, and it takes more time to recover when you move. In contrast, a mattress with light-density foams is bouncier and recovers faster than a mattress with denser foams. Other factors that help us narrow the testing field include company return policies and warranties. We don't recommend any mattresses that can't be returned or exchanged. Even though we highly recommend trying a mattress before you buy it, we also understand that doing so isn't always a possibility. (Mattresses all too often end up in landfills because they're difficult to donate or recycle, which is why we hope our vetting helps you avoid a return in the first place.) So we look for manufacturers with return or exchange policies that allow you to try a mattress for at least a month and have warranty coverage for at least 10 years. Last, we consider customer service and online reviews. We don't move forward with testing mattresses that have consistently bad reviews. Some mattress companies have reviews only on their own websites, which makes it hard for us to determine how authentic their online feedback is; when that happens, we also look for any reports to the Better Business Bureau. In going through all of that, we narrow our list of hundreds of mattresses to about half a dozen newcomers to test against our favorites.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
5WPR Announces Specialized Prime Day PR and Marketing Services to Drive Visibility and Business Impact for Clients
NEW YORK, June 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- 5WPR, one of the largest independently owned PR and digital marketing firms in the U.S., today announces its specialized service offering designed to help brands cut through the noise and drive meaningful business results during Amazon Prime Day. As the highly anticipated shopping event continues to grow in scale and impact, 5WPR's Prime Day support leverages the agency's deep media relationships, proven expertise, and strategic approach to deliver exceptional visibility and revenue-driving outcomes for clients across industries. "Our team understands what it takes to stand out during critical retail moments like Prime Day," said Matthew Caiola, CEO, 5WPR. "We've expanded our Prime Day services to meet demand from clients seeking high-value media coverage, impactful influencer marketing activations, and strategic storytelling that drives consumer action. We're proud to help our clients see real success around this key sales opportunity." 5WPR's seasoned media professionals activate deep relationships across leading publications from Wirecutter to CNET to secure and amplify powerful brand coverage. The agency's strategic approach ensures that media efforts go beyond visibility to alter consumer behavior and drive measurable business outcomes. By inserting brands into ownable, timely conversations and crafting messages that resonate, 5WPR helps clients differentiate their offerings against competitors and capture attention in a crowded market. Serving as the agency of record for an extensive range of legacy brands and high-growth startups, 5WPR's clients trust the agency's strategic and creative approach to achieving widespread visibility and establishing industry leadership. Recent Prime Day activations have helped clients across lifestyle, consumer tech, wellness, and home categories achieve standout media placements and sales growth. With Prime Day approaching this July, 5WPR partners closely with clients to plan and execute high-impact campaigns that maximize visibility and conversion opportunities. Services include proactive media outreach and managing embargoed press, securing placements in Prime Day preview lists, product roundups, and gift guides, as well as coordinating influencer partnerships, affiliate outreach, and promotional content. During Prime Day, the team drives real-time pitching, monitors live coverage, and engages with emerging media opportunities. Post-event, 5WPR conducts follow-ups to secure recap coverage, deliver performance metrics, and build momentum for future campaigns. 5WPR also offers expedited onboarding, positioning and messaging development, proactive media relations, and comprehensive reporting to ensure clients are supported at every stage of their Prime Day campaign. "Our Prime Day services are built to deliver not just buzz, but business impact," added Caiola. "We're excited to help clients capitalize on this key moment with campaigns that drive lasting results." To learn more about 5WPR's Prime Day support services, get in touch here. About 5WPR 5WPR is a full-service PR agency known for cutting-edge programs that engage with businesses, issues, and ideas. Founded in 2003, 5W has been named a top US and NYC PR Agency by leading industry publication O'Dwyer's, as well as awarded Agency of the Year in the 2024 American Business Awards®, and continuously brings leading businesses a resourceful, bold, and results-driven approach to communication. The agency has more than 250 professionals serving clients in B2C (Beauty & Fashion, Consumer Brands, Entertainment, Food & Beverage, Health & Wellness, Travel & Hospitality, Technology, Nonprofit), B2B (Corporate Communications and Reputation Management), Public Affairs, Crisis Communications and Digital Marketing (Social Media, Influencer, Paid Media, SEO). In addition to its business accolades, 5W was named to the 2024 Digiday WorkLife Employer of the Year list. For more information and to join our team, visit 5W Careers. Media ContactChris Bergincbergin@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE 5W Public Relations Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
New York Times
3 days ago
- Health
- New York Times
How to Keep Your Pet Cool in the Summer Heat
Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter There are a variety of beds, cots, and mats that might help your dog or cat get less hot while they snooze the day away, in addition to the fans and ACs that you may already be running to keep yourself cool. Cooling beds and elevated cots There are loads of pet beds that are made with 'cooling gel foam,' but they don't actually reduce your pet's body temperature — they simply don't get quite as hot as some beds might without the gel. 'Synthetic foam (memory foam, polyfoam) retains more heat than more breathable materials (latex, cotton, etc.) do. So the 'cooling gel' is typically added to offset the extra heat retention of the foam, rather than being objectively cooler than a material with better breathability,' said deputy director Courtney Schley, who has overseen coverage of sleep products for Wirecutter. Of the beds we tested, a couple did the job as advertised — they warmed up less than our control bed made from regular non-gel foam. The FurHaven Velvet Waves Perfect Comfort Cooling Gel Bolster Cat & Dog Bed, the 'cooling' version of our main dog bed pick, performed the best. The surface temperature of the bed rose an average of nine degrees Fahrenheit after laying on it for 5 minutes, versus an 11 degree increase on the standard bed. This is in line with FurHaven's claims that the foam 'reduces sleeping surface temperature by 1-2 degrees.' While it's not the most dramatic result, if you want to take a little bit of an edge off of the heat in your pet's bed, this model is a good option. We also tested the Barker 4" Orthopedic Crate Bed with the BarkerChill+ optional upgrade added on top. It did about as well as the FurHaven, with its surface temp rising about 10 °F after five minutes of use, but it's roughly $100 more expensive than the FurHaven (for a size medium). Barker also sells 7' foam beds that you can add the cooling option to, so if your pet needs extra cushioning underneath them, the Barker is still a great, albeit pricey, option. If your dog prefers a breathable, elevated bed, the K&H Original Pet Cot and the Kuranda Chew Proof Aluminum Dog Bed, are great options for both indoors and out. The Kuranda is more expensive but its thick aluminum frame makes it more durable and resistant to chewing. Cooling mats and blankets Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter 'I have a part of my house which has a stone floor. And when it's hot, that's where the cats lie. They starfish out on the stone floor and cool themselves down,' said Hall. If you don't have stone or tile flooring, a cooling mat might be your next best option. These flat, thin pads got less hot than the cooling beds in our testing. Instead of foam, they're made with a pressure-activated gel that absorbs some of the heat from your pet's body. All the mats we tested cooled better than any of the beds we tried. The Arf Pets Self-Cooling Solid Gel Pad and The Green Pet Shop Cool Pet Pad both got only about four degrees warmer after five minutes of using them indoors (versus the FurHaven cooling bed's nine degree increase under the same conditions). These mats are more portable than many beds, but since they're filled with gel, they can get heavy depending on the size. And their cooling effects can fade quickly in direct sunlight or on extremely hot days. Both manufacturers claim their mats are non-toxic, but you still shouldn't let your pet chew on the materials, and always make sure you're monitoring your animal when using one of these. Dave preferred the blanket-like Pelsbarn Cooling Mat to the gel-filled options. Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter While both of these mats felt chilly and refreshing on my back after coming home all sweaty from a walk, my dog Dave, their intended customer, wasn't so into them. He's generally not into slick or slippery surfaces, and he'll rarely lay on an uncarpeted floor if there's a softer option available. So Dave often parked himself nearby on the Pelsbarn Cooling Mat. Even though this model is called a 'mat,' it feels more like a blanket. It's not filled with pressure-activated gel, but instead is made of something called 'Ice Silk' fabric, which has hollow fibers that can absorb body heat, and a breathable layer on the bottom. Given its differences, I was genuinely surprised that the Pelsbarn performed just as well as the gel-filled mats at keeping the heat in check, increasing by only about four degrees after five minutes of use. It also cooled far better than the PetFusion Premium Cat & Dog Cooling Blanket, which is soft and light, but warmed up more than even the foam beds had. The Pelsbarn mat is also lighter than the gel mats, so you can easily pack it for a picnic, and it's machine washable. Keeping cool on the go Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter Keep an eye on the weather report. If it's going to be very hot out, 'exercise your dogs in the early morning or late in the evening,' said Klein. Tyra Davis, a veterinarian based in Hammond, Louisiana, has a handy rule she always tells her clients: No play in the heat of the day. If your pup needs a bathroom break during the warmest part of a hot day, keep it short and try to stay in shady, grassy areas If it's safe to go outside and not excessively hot, a harness, vest, or gaiter that uses evaporative cooling can help extend the time your pup can spend with you outdoors. Evaporation in general 'is your best help in trying to cool a dog down,' said Klein. It's similar to how people sweat: as the moisture evaporates from our skin, it makes us feel cooler. (You can also pour or spray water directly onto your pet, or get them into a pool, lake, or other body of water, said Hall.) Evaporative cooling garments can be helpful but they won't work as well in high humidity, since the moisture is less likely to evaporate. You also need to keep tabs on them and make sure they stay wet, otherwise they can become another insulation layer making your pet even hotter. If you're using any of these products, Klein emphasized that 'you should use common sense and take breaks, offer the dog plenty of water, and periodically check to see if there's no chafing or rubbing,' especially on the elbows or groin. Also, consider your dog's health, sensitivities, and coat to make sure it's right for them. 'Some of the cooling vests might be too cold for dogs that are older or have arthritic joints. A breed like a whippet has very thin skin versus a dog like a golden retriever, which is double coated. It might be more beneficial for that golden and it might be uncomfortable for that whippet,' said Klein. 'I think we have to treat each dog very individually and assess the dog, the climate, and the product,' he added. If you're ever in doubt, check with your vet. Cooling harnesses Dave modeled the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Dog Harness on a hot day in June. Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter The Swamp Cooler Dog Harness from Ruffwear, which has been making a version of this harness since 2008, uses three layers that work together to pull moisture and heat away from the dog. The inner and outermost layers are made from a bluesign-approved polyester mesh, while the middle layer is kind of like a felt, according to Peter Kearns, head of product at Ruffwear. This middle layer 'holds a significant amount of water,' said Kearns, so it acts as a sort of a sponge or reservoir. 'And that action of having the water pulled away from that reservoir through that outer layer, that's what's cooling the dog down, lowering the total surface temperature,' Kearns explained. Dave also tried on the Canada Pooch Max Chill Cooling Harness, which fit him just as well as the Ruffwear. He did not seem to have a preference. Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter The Canada Pooch Max Chill Cooling Harness works similarly to the Ruffwear. It uses three layers of fabric from Coolcore, which makes performance apparel for humans. These layers work together to wick, transport, and, finally, evaporate moisture (and with it, heat) away from the surface of a dog's body, according to Tara Hoth, director of product and innovation at Canada Pooch. These harnesses performed equally well in my testing, both remaining wet and cooler than the air even after two hours in direct sunlight on a 76 degree day. Only the Ruffwear can be machine-washed (Canada Pooch says the Max Chill Harness should be spot-cleaned only, but I ran it through the machine a few times, along with the Ruffwear, and it came out fine). Neither harness can be tumble dried. And the Ruffwear required a little extra cleaning as it trapped a few small bits of dirt and debris in between the top two layers. Kearns suggested using a brush to dislodge these bits and then flushing them out with water. The buckles on the Canada Pooch are bulkier than on the Ruffwear so they may be easier to grasp, but we found them slightly more difficult to snap in place. Cooling vests The Canada Pooch Max Chill Cooling Vest draped well on Dave's body so that we didn't need to use the leg straps (shown here on his rear haunch). Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter If you think your dog might benefit from something with more coverage, a cooling vest may be a better option. These vests look like little capes. Since they touch more surface area of the dog's body, they might help to cool them down a bit more. But they might take some getting used to — unlike with the harnesses, Dave seemed a little confused when he tried on the vests for the first time. The Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Cooling Dog Vest and Canada Pooch Max Chill Cooling Vest are both made with the same evaporative cooling layers as their harness counterparts — the vests just have more material. The Canada Pooch vest is made from a more flexible material than the Ruffwear, so it drapes a bit better over a dog's body, and it features rear leg straps that can help keep it in place. Because the Ruffwear vest is slightly stiffer, it can stick up a bit near a dog's rear when they bend down to sniff something. The Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Dog Vest was a bit stiffer than the Canada Pooch, and the size medium was too short to cover Dave's back (a large may have fit better). Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter Cooling gaiters and snoods Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter If you want something that's simple to pop on your dog, a gaiter or snood is lower profile, lower cost, and lower effort to use than a vest or a harness, but it likely won't cool as much either. The Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Neck Gaiter and the Canada Pooch Max Chill Cooling Snood both performed the best out of those we tested. They each stayed wet and cool for about two hours in direct sunlight on a warm day. The Frisco Summer Cooling Pullover Dog Gaitor is about a third of the price of the Ruffwear and Canada Pooch options, but it dried up the fastest. The Canada Pooch comes in fewer sizes than the Ruffwear but it has a cinch toggle around the neck so you can adjust the fit. The Ruffwear comes in six sizes, but they're not adjustable. No matter which you choose, be prepared for your dog to look like a scarf-wearing hipster in the summer. Boots Dave agreed to test the WagWellies Mojave boots, but he made sure no one was looking. Mel Plaut/NYT Wirecutter Since the ground can often be hotter than the air above it, a breathable pair of boots may help protect your dog's paw pads from getting scalded (good luck getting shoes on a cat's feet). 'Artificial grass, black tarmac, all those things are going to absorb the radiant heat from the sun,' said Hall. These surfaces can reach up to 140 °F in the sun, Hall warned. And even with outside temperatures as low as 77 °F, the pavement can reach 125 °F, according to the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine. You can test the ground by touching the back of your hand to it, said Hall, not your palm, which will be slightly more calloused and less sensitive. 'If you can't keep your hand in contact with the ground, it's not safe to be walking your dog without protective booties on,' she said. Natural grass, shady areas, and paler surfaces will be cooler, so try to stick to those. Hot weather boots should be breathable while also protecting their paw pads from getting scalded. We like the Wagwear WagWellies Mojave, which look like Crocs. They're dotted with holes that make them breathable, and also allow water to drain out if you get caught in a summer storm. The Ruffwear Grip Trex boots have a thick, durable sole and a breathable woven mesh upper that make them great for longer hikes over rough terrain. They don't have big holes like the Mojaves, so if you're on a hike, these can help keep dirt and large debris from getting inside the shoe. The Mountain Ridge Tough Boots with Grip are less expensive than the Ruffwear and Mojave boots, and are easy to put on. They're sold in singles, so you can buy spares, but they're not as breathable, and they provide a thinner barrier between your dog's paws and the ground. Whether your dog is wearing boots or not, check their paws frequently to make sure they're in good shape. Kiddie pools If you have the space for it and your dog enjoys getting wet, a kiddie pool can be a fun way to help cool them off. The Funsicle QuickFun Wading Doggy Pool is a good option, but we haven't tested it, mostly because Dave thinks water is the enemy. The Frisco Outdoor Dog Swimming Pool is more expensive, since it has a convenient drain hole and folds up for easy storage. Steer clear of inflatable pools since it only takes one sharp dog claw to leave you with a flat piece of wet plastic. And always use caution: since brachycephalic dogs can drown easily, Hall warned against dunking these flat-faced breeds in water where that might be a possibility. Always supervise your dog when they're in the water, whatever their breed.
Buzz Feed
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Buzz Feed
This Power Washer Is Under $200 Right Now
When it comes to prepping the exterior of your home for summer hosting, you may wish there was a Magic Eraser big enough for decks and driveways. The next best thing may be this highly-rated, Sun Joe portable electric power washer that's currently on sale for 26% off at Target. With a 4.8-star rating, it's a user-friendly model that reviewers say they recommend for 'every household.' 'I cleaned outdoor teak furniture with it, made them look like new!' one review said. 'I cleaned my deck, dirty from years...I was shocked with the results.' 'It has saved me time and a broken back washing my very large deck,' wrote dirt and grime off your walkway, fences, patio, outdoor furniture, the sides of your house, and even your car with this user-friendly and nimble bulky gas-powered washers, this electric option only weighs 31 pounds and doesn't use any oil or give off any noxious emissions. Yet users say it still gives impressive results. (It's also Wirecutter's 'budget pick' for the pressure washer category.)'I've found the washer powerful enough to get the job done in a single pass without soap or solvents,' one review said. 'It cut right through a couple of years of redwood pollen and moss without any trouble.'Outputting 1.2 gallons per minute with 2,030 pounds of pressure per square inch — it packs a big punch for a small machine. The dual-tank system lets you carry two different cleaning solutions. 'I like the way it mixes in detergent,' a reviewer who cleaned their garbage cans, area rugs, and minivan said, 'Powerful sprayer with choice of different nozzles.'Included with the machine is an easy-connect spray gun with a steel tip and a 35-foot kink-resistant hose for those hard-to-reach places. It also comes with five quick-connect spray nozzles for different review jokes that the biggest issue you'll have will be keeping it in your home, as 'everyone tries to borrow it all the time.'If you're trying to give your place a scrub to get ready for summer, grab yours today while it's still on to hear more? Read some of the promising reviews of the Sun Joe 2030 pressure washer. Promising reviews: 'This product is something every homeowner should have. So many uses, and great quality so far.' —Dawn dawn'Let me tell you, this thing is a beast. Have used this to clean the sidewalk, vinyl siding, fencing, and hockey court. Highly recommended.' —Mr Oilman'I love this machine — it is light, powerful, easy to use, easy to assemble, and does a fantastic job on cars, moldy patios, house walls. I had a prior gas-powered power washer that was loud, smelly, and constantly breaking down. Never again. Thanks, Sun Joe!' —DelOro'Perfect for any homeowner. Excellent power. Easy to set up and use. Just cleaned my white PVC fence and a ton of decorative stone work, and the results were fantastic' —LenGraz'It's so easy to operate. I don't know how I got along without it. The yard and garage have never been so clean. I highly recommend this machine. Lightweight and heavy-duty. THANX!!!' —cooker'Very effective and easy to use for the price. Cleaned a huge deck that had been neglected for five years!' —Harleyjoe'We purchased our first SunJoe pressure washer in 2015 to take care of our FL home. Due to the weather here, we're susceptible to mold, moss, dust, dirt, grime. We always have something that needs pressure washing. We just purchased a replacement this year when the first one, after nearly 10 years of heavy service finally gave out. It's been used by every member of the family, including two teenage boys who've accidentally dropped the entire pressure washer into the pool while cleaning the pool deck several times. It just keeps on working... Great investment for homeowners.' —FL Mom Get it from Target for $199 (originally $269.99).
