Spring weather is chaotic, but dressing to keep up with its random ups-and-downs? That’s even more chaotic. And yet, the one piece of clothing that’s held steadfast through April’s highest highs and lowest lows is my Free Fly Apparel Elevate Hoodie (originally $88, now $70), which is so consistently comfortable, I wear it once a week, if not more.

Free Fly Apparel, Women's Elevate Hoodie — $88.00

Available in XS-XXL in three colors.

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Free Fly’s whole schtick is making quick-drying, sun-protective clothing that doesn’t feel or look like sun-protective clothing. If you’ve ever seen a men’s fishing shirt, you know what I’m talking about; UPF clothing (which is the textile industry’s version of sunscreen) has traditionally been unflattering and uncomfortable, made from thicker fabrics in fugly colors like beige, grey, and more beige.

Not Free Fly. For one, the brand uses bamboo to make most of its pieces, which is softer and more sustainable than other fabrics. Bamboo is also cool-to-the-touch and naturally breathable, perfect for staying cool on hot, summery days without ever weighing you down. And it’s quick-drying, so if you do break a sweat or get rained on, it dries in a flash.

Free Fly’s pieces are also incredibly lightweight, which is key reason why I love my Elevate Hoodie so much. Back during that heat wave we had a few weeks ago, I could throw this puppy on over a sports bra and call it a day. Now that it’s back to cold, I’ll do the same thing and throw a flannel over top, or add a base layer underneath. Either way, it’s a versatile weight that keeps up with a very versatile season.

I also appreciate that it’s sun-protective, a quality that never goes out of style. I’m an avid fisherman (fisherwoman?) who spends most of her off-time out on the water in the sun, and the details are a game-changer. You don’t need to be an angler to appreciate these touches, though—anyone who spends time outside or enjoys the water can reap the benefits of the Elevate Hoodie. For example, the crossover hood allows for full sun coverage at the neck, as do the thumbholes and top-of-hand construction that keeps the sleeves down and over the knuckles, out of the sun’s rays. Additionally, the material is crafted with a sustainable odor-control technology, so you can wear it for days on end without having to wash it, and it won’t get stinky.

I could go on and on, but I think it’s clear—I love Free Fly apparel and I love this hoodie. I think you will, too. But if you want to explore other styles, there’s plenty to go around. Scroll to shop more spring transitional staples to keep up with the season’s wild temps.

Bamboo Fleece Lounge Pant — $88.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

Fun fact: These are actually my go-to travel pants, thanks to their supreme softness and barely noticeable elastic waistband that makes hours spent curled up in the car or airplane seat actually bearable. Like everything else Free Fly, they’re made of viscose from bamboo, which makes them breathable and never too stuffy, perfect for life on-the-go or lounging on the couch.

Colors: 3

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Bamboo Current Tank — $44.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

If you’d rather show off your shoulders this summer, do it in this featherlight tank top. Its slightly cropped silhouette is perfect for wearing with jeans, shorts, skirts, the aforementioned travel pants—you name it. And the parts that are covered at protected thanks to the fabrics UPF 50+ that’s like sunscreen in clothing form.

Colors: 3

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Men's Bamboo Shade Long Sleeve — $64.00

Available sizes: S-3XL

Even though Mother’s Day is around the corner, Father’s Day will be here before you know it. For dads, grandparents, uncles, boyfriends, and whomever else might appreciate a breezy long sleeve, there’s this lightweight top. It’s stretchy and versatile, perfect for wearing as-is when temps are soaring, or layering underneath flannels and sweatshirts on cool evenings. Also available in women’s styles.

Colors: 11

 

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Cloudshield Rain Jacket — $248.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

If there’s another spring transitional piece worth adding to your wardrobe, it’s a lightweight rain jacket, like the Cloudshield Rain Jacket. Obviously, it’s waterproof and features fully taped seams to keep rain where it belongs: outside of your clothes. But it’s also lightweight and packable, perfect for adding layers underneath or throwing in your pack when it gets too hot. Also available in men’s styles. 

Colors: 3

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Bamboo Heritage Midi Dress — $88.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

One-and-done dress weather is around the corner, and for the days when it’s just too hot to even think about wearing an outfit, there’s this midi dress. The fabric is ultra-breezy on its own, only it’s cut in a relaxed silhouette that brings the material slightly away from the body for maximum cooling, plus has slits on the sides to allow for even more airflow. Yes, please.

Colors: 4

 

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Men's Lined Breeze Short 7" — $78.00

Available sizes: S-3XL

Speaking of breezy, the Breeze Shorts are as comfortable as they sound. The shell is a polyester/spandex blend that’s a bit more durable, while a bamboo boxer liner keeps things comfortable. The polyester/spandex blend also makes them quick-drying, perfect for days near the pool or at the beach. They come in a rainbow of colors, though, so good luck buying just one pair.

Colors: 13

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Pull-On Breeze Skirt — $68.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

Similarly, there’s a whole collection of Women’s Breeze styles that feature the same, durable poly/spandex blend in the most summery cuts. Enter, this skirt, which you’ll want to wear everywhere. It features a pull-on elastic band for easy dressing, plus two bamboo-lined pockets on the side and a stash pocket hidden in the right pocket for keeping valuables safe and secure. Throw it on over a bathing suit at the beach and call it a day.

Colors: 4

 

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Men's Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie — $68.00

Available sizes: S-3XL

While the Elevate hoodie is just a smidge more durable for outdoor adventures, the original Lightweight Hoodie is ideal for hanging out and keeping the sun off your skin in comfort. It’s buttery, cool-to-the-touch, and feels like nothing’s there, so even if the sun’s beating down on you, you won’t overheat or get stuffy. If you do sweat, it’s quick drying, so you won’t be stuck in a soggy mess. Also available in women’s styles. 

Colors: 18

 

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With this in mind, Sara San Angelo, a professional house cleaner with over 20 years of experience and owner of the blog Confessions of a Cleaning Lady, and Melissa Maker, a cleaning expert behind the blog Clean My Space, share eight of the dirtiest spaces in your home and how to clean them.

The 8 dirtiest spaces in your home, according to cleaning professionals

1. Faucet heads

You need to give your kitchen and bathroom faucets the same level of attention you would a shower head. All faucets are susceptible to hard water deposits, mineral buildup, and mold. “People don’t think to clean their faucet heads because they don’t see these places, but they can get very dirty and moldy,” says San Angelo. “This is a very important place to clean—you do everything from wash dishes to brush your teeth with the water coming out of that.”

How to clean faucet heads

Fill a plastic bag with equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Submerge the faucet head with the solution and use rubber bands to secure the bag to the fixture. Let it soak in place for up to 30 minutes. After removing the plastic bag from the faucet head, remove loose debris with a cleaning solution like the Clorox Disinfecting All-Purpose Cleaner ($4) and a small scrub brush or soft-bristle toothbrush.

2. Dishwasher filter

You’d think that your dishwasher would clean itself, but a dirty dishwasher filter can prevent it from doing its job well. “If you notice your dishes aren’t coming out clean, it’s a good indicator that you need to clean your filter,” Maker says. She notes that older models don’t typically have these, but in newer models, it’s a mesh container located in the bottom of your dishwasher. To see if you have one and how to remove it, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your model.

How to clean a dishwasher filter

Remove the dishwasher filter before cleaning it. “Typically, you unscrew the filter, pull it out, and soak it in the sink with hot soapy water. You can use a cleaning toothbrush to scrub the mesh, and then just put it back,” Maker says. “You’ll notice your dishwasher runs so much better. You won’t get that grittiness on your glasses and things stuck to your plates.”

3. Door and window frames

There are some spaces in a home that people don’t often think (or want) to clean because they are so hard to reach, but dust and dirt will accumulate anywhere it can land. “Any horizontal space in your home will collect dust,” says San Angelo. “This goes for tops of doors and window frames.” While the idea of cleaning door and window frames can seem like an added chore, it can be done quickly and efficiently with one or a couple of cleaning products.

How to clean door and window frames

Simply, go over door and window frames with a dry microfiber cloth or a duster to remove debris. If your door and window frames are out of reach, consider using a duster with an extendable pole. One option that San Angelo recommends is the Swiffer Heavy Duty Extender Handle Starter Kit ($19), which extends up to three feet and comes with 12 dusters.

4. Exterior windows, screens, and interior window sills

Maker says that cleaning your exterior windows not only gets rid of visible smudges and dirt, but it can make a marked difference in your home. “The other day I went around the house and I did all my exterior windows … We have a beautiful backyard, but it can be really hard to enjoy if the windows are dirty,” she says. “Once I cleaned them, it just made all the difference—the inside of the house sparkled.” While this cleaning task is more involved, it’s well worth the time and extra effort.

How to clean exterior windows, screens, and interior window sills

Maker says you’ll need a double-sided window squeegee and an extension pole, like these: Ettore Complete Window Washer ($12) and Ettore 16 ft. Reach Extension Pole ($28). Fill a bucket with warm water, a tablespoon of dish soap, and a cup of white vinegar. Dip the spongy side in the bucket, wash the window, and then flip the window washer to squeegee off the water. “Each window takes about 30 seconds,” she says, adding that the extension pole allows you to tackle second-story windows without needing a ladder.

Next, you can pop your window screens out and scrub them in the bathtub with dish soap and an Iron Handle Scrub Brush ($7). “Screens catch things like dirt, dead bugs, little pieces of plants—they can just get really dirty over time.” You can do the same with screen doors by scrubbing with the iron handle brush dipped in warm soapy water, and removing the soap and debris with a wet Microfiber Cleaning Cloth ($15).

You’ll also want to show your window sills some love. “When your windows are open and closed, and open and closed, dirt blows in and it lands on the sill,” she says. Start by loosening up any dirt with a cleaning toothbrush, vacuum the sill using a brush attachment, and wipe it down with a damp cloth. Maker cleans her exterior windows and screens once or twice a year, and cleans her sills whenever they’re visibly dirty.

5. Lightbulbs

When was the last time you’ve cleaned a lightbulb? (My answer would be “never.”) You may want to make it part of your cleaning routine—they are prime dust magnets. “You don’t normally see your lightbulbs, but along with light fixtures, they can get very dusty,” says San Angelo. She adds that a dusty, grimy bulb can significantly lessen the amount of light it casts. So, before you even think about changing a lightbulb, you may want to try cleaning it first.

How to clean lightbulbs

Turn off the lightbulb and allow it to cool before cleaning. Dust the lightbulb using a duster, but if the dust is stuck on (“It happens sometimes in kitchens where there is a lot of grease accumulation,” says San Angelo”), remove it from the socket of the fixture and carefully wipe the bulb down with a damp rag. Dry the lightbulb before putting it back into the socket.

6. Behind your TV

When it comes time to clean your TV, the first thing you probably think to tackle is the TV screen, which is prone to unsightly smudges and dust. The same goes for behind the TV, though, and “just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean dust won’t accumulate on it,” says San Angelo. It probably doesn’t get much exposure to the elements, but it’s still important to keep it clean. When dust accumulates in the vents, nooks, and crannies in the rear, it can keep a TV from performing at its prime.

How to clean behind your TV

Turn off your TV and make sure it’s completely cooled down before you start cleaning. Using a dry microfiber cloth or a duster, gently wipe down the back of your TV, paying special attention to the vents and any tight corners and other hard-to-reach places. Perform this task weekly or every other week to ensure that it stays dust free.

7. Shoe closets and doormats

Maker says your doormats and shoe closets trap tons of dirt and debris that you track into the house on your shoes. “You can bring allergens in, you can bring in dirt, just unwanted stuff comes in,” she says. A 2008 study from the University of Arizona, funded by The Rockport Shoe Company, found that the average shoe sole is covered with 421,000 bacteria and that 90 percent of the time, bacteria transfers directly to clean tile floors—an excellent reason to clean your doormats and shoe closets more often.

How to clean shoe closets and doormats

“I don’t always vacuum every room every time I vacuum, but I always vacuum those mats. Because keeping those clean keeps the rest of my house much cleaner,” Maker says. The floor of a shoe closet can also get really gritty with dirt and debris, Maker says. While they don’t have to be cleaned as frequently, you’ll want to aim to vacuum it three to four times a year.

8. The floor around the toilet

You know the importance of cleaning your toilet, but what may be unbeknownst to some is that the job extends to the surrounding area. One spot that is easy to miss? The space around the toilet. “This spot is sometimes out of sight but can collect lots of grime,” says San Angelo. While you’re at it, you may also want to clean behind the toilet, which is among the dirtiest places in the bathroom. “It can just be a place where germs and dirt can be harbored,” Branch Basics co-founder Marilee Nelson previously told Well+Good.

How to clean the floor around the toilet

Using either cleaning wipes or a combination of cleaning solution and a rag or a power towel, wipe down the toilet base where it meets the floor. You may want to clean the floor around the toilet, which may also be dirty. Don’t forget to read the instructions on the cleanser label to find out how long it should stay on a surface to effectively kill germs and for proper usage.

Many popular houseplants—think monstera, pothos, rubber plant, and the ever-so-trendy fiddle leaf fig tree—come from tropical climates and require lots of work, especially if you live in a dry climate, or a climate with extreme temperatures, to help them thrive. If you love the look of houseplants but have found plant parenting challenging, or know that your space isn’t well suited for the proper sunlight, temperature, and humidity required to keep them alive, faux or artificial plants are an excellent alternative.

The best fake plants, at a glance

• Best snake plant: West Elm, Faux Potted Sansevieria Plant ($159-$179)
• Runner-up snake plant: Hollyone, Artificial Snake Plant ($29)
• Best taro leaf plant: Der Rose, Taro Leaf and Greenery Leaf Faux Plant With Pot ($18)
• Best fiddle leaf fig tree: 1-800 Flowers Faux Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree 47″ ($100)
• Best pothos plant: Hearth & Hand with Magnolia, Faux Variegated Pothos Hanging Plant ($25)
• Best donkey tail plant: West Elm, Faux Potted Donkey Tail Plant ($39-$59)
• Best eucalyptus tree: Diiger, Artificial Eucalyptus Tree Plant ($90)
• Best zamifolia plant: Primrue, Faux Foliage Zamifolia Plant ($100)
• Best succulent: Kurrajong, Farmhouse Artificial Plant in Pot ($30)
• Best spiderwort plant: West Elm, Faux Potted Spiderwort Plant ($39)
• Best yucca plant: Amazon Basics, Artificial Yucca Plant ($62)
• Best monstera plant: Viagdo, Artificial Monstera Deliciosa Plant ($65)
• Best rubber tree: West Elm, Faux Potted Rubber Tree ($127-$406)

When you think of fake plants, you might think of sad-looking plastic or fabric-based plants that look anything but the real deal, but artificial plants have come a long way. In fact, some of them are so realistic that it’s hard to tell they aren’t actually alive. To find the best artificial plants, you need to first know where to shop, and we have had lots of luck at Amazon, Target, West Elm, and Pottery Barn. From a stunning snake plant that looks exactly like its live counterpart to a realistic-looking pothos plant and everything in between, here are our top picks for the best fake plants online.

West Elm, Faux Potted Sansevieria Plant, $159-$179

West Elm’s collection of faux plants is truly outstanding and so realistic. One of the most impressive varieties in its collection is the Faux Potted Sansevieria Plant, aka a fake snake plant, that looks so real that you’ll have everyone fooled. The plant comes in both dark green and green with yellow edges in two sizes and a small and sleek plastic plant pot that looks great on its own, or can easily be placed inside a ceramic planter for a more elevated look.

Dimensions: 8” x 38”
Weight: 10.7lbs
Colors: Green, green multi

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Hollyone, Artificial Snake Plant — $29.00

For another snake plant option that is more affordable than West Elm’s, consider the Hollyone Artificial Snake Plant from Amazon. This faux plant costs less than $30 and looks just like a Black Robust snake plant, which features a darker leaf with monochrome striping as well as five other snake plant varieties to choose from, depending on your personal preference.

Dimensions: 6” x 16.5” x 4.9”
Weight: n/a
Colors: 6

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Der Rose, Taro Leaf and Greenery Leaf Faux Plant With Pot (2) — $18.00

These artificial plants are so lush and perfectly green, nobody will know they’re not the real thing unless they really examine them. Even the stones look realistic. Since this set comes with two plants (and the pots are are on the smaller side), we envision these on a nightstand, office desk, or kitchen table. They make for a calming centerpiece or bedroom decor—with no hassle, of course. And, well, you can’t beat the price. They have excellent reviews from shoppers, with one writing, “I love these plants!! they are perfect, study, and well-made!!”

Dimensions: 11.3” x 4.3” x 4.3”
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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1-800 Flowers, Faux Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree — $100.00

Rather than dealing with the mood swings of an actual fiddle-leaf fig tree, buy this one instead. It’s just as gorgeous as the real thing and comes potted in a rattan basket with faux soil (which is also looks as real as actual dirt). It’s compressed upon arrival, so once it’s unwrapped, spruce up the leaves and flounce up the stems to give it some life. From there, all you have to do is enjoy its beauty—no watering or repotting necessary.

Dimensions: 47″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Hearth & Hand with Magnolia, Faux Variegated Pothos Hanging Plant — $25.00

Pothos are some of the easiest houseplants to care for, but if you don’t have the right lighting, they can still give you a hard time. If you love the look of a satin pothos plant, consider snagging this Faux Variegated Pothos Hanging Plant from Hearth & Hand with Magnolia at Target, which is inspired by the satin variety. The artificial plant costs less than $25, which is about the price you would pay for a live satin pothos of the same size—and have incredibly realistic-looking leaves. On top of that, it comes in a super chic hanging basket that meshes well with a variety of home decor styles.

Dimensions: 12” x 14” x 14”
Weight: 1.08lbs
Colors: 1

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West Elm, Faux Potted Donkey Tail Plant, $39-$59

If you love trailing succulents, you will hardly be able to tell the difference between a live donkey tail plant and this Faux Potted Donkey Tail Plant from West Elm. The artificial houseplant comes in both small and medium sizes and comes with a pot that looks beautiful on its own but can also be easily placed inside a different pot, depending on your style.

Size options: 2 (small, medium)
Dimensions: small is 6.3″ x 12.6″ x 12.6″; pot is 4.5″ x 4″
medium is 6″ x 7.5″ x 18.5″; pot is 5.1″ x 5.1″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Diiger, Artificial Eucalyptus Tree Plant — $90.00

Indoor trees can really liven up a place but they can also be hard to look after, which is why we love the Diiger Artificial Eucalyptus Tree Plant from Amazon. This artificial tree is six feet tall and comes in a small garden pot that can easily be spruced up by placing it inside a chic indoor pot. The leaves and branches are also so realistic, it’s hard to tell that it’s not a real tree. On top of that, it costs less than most live eucalyptus trees of this size, sans the risk of it dying.

Dimensions: 7″ x 8″ x 71″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Primrue, Faux Foliage Zamifolia Plant — $100.00

Zamifolia plants don’t require a lot of work or even a lot of sunlight. However, if you’re in a space that gets too little light, they can still give you a hard time. Lighten up the darkest corner of your space with a little plant love, thanks to the Primrue Faux Foliage Zamifolia Plant from Wayfair. This 35-inch plant features nine sprigs of real-looking leaves that will stay that way forever without ever going brown. It also comes in a small black pot that is used as the base and can be placed inside a ceramic planter for a more elevated and realistic feel.

Dimensions: 35” x 18” x 18”
Weight: 3.8lbs
Colors: 1

 

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Kurrajong, Farmhouse Artificial Plant in Pot — $30.00

Small succulent plants are one of our favorite ways to spruce up a space. However, depending on where you live, they don’t always do well indoors (or at all). For a climate-friendly alternative, consider the Kurrajong Farmhouse Artificial Plant in Pot, which looks so real that it will make you do a double take. Inspired by the look of a real succulent, this faux plant features supple and spikey leaves that look super realistic without the stress of remembering to water it. On top of that, it comes in a super chic cement gray plant pot, so it’s ready for any indoor (or even patio) space.

Dimensions: 4.5″x 4.5″ x 8″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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West Elm, Faux Potted Spiderwort Plant — $39.00

Plants are an easy way to add a touch of color to your home, thanks to their lush green leaves. But, if you want to add a little more color to your space, go with the West Elm Faux Potted Spiderwort Plant, which boasts realistic variegated leaves in green with a touch of white and pink. On top of the realistic greenery, this fake houseplant comes in a stylish ceramic pot with fake dirt that will make others think you have a green thumb.

Dimensions: 26″ x 19″ x 9″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Amazon Basics, Artificial Yucca Plant with Plastic Nursery Pot — $62.00

A yucca plant is an excellent addition to bare corners in homes and offices alike. However, not every space has enough sunlight to keep these plants happy. No matter what your lighting situation looks like, the Amazon Basics Artificial Yucca Plant with Plastic Nursery Pot will thrive. This plant stands at 40 inches tall and comes in a plastic black nursury pot that looks good on its own but can also be easily covered in a chic ceramic pot with some moss on top for some added foliage styling.

Dimensions: 19.7” x 19.7” x 40”
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Pottery Barn Teen, Fiddle Leaf Artificial Tree — $116.00

Fiddle leaf fig trees are, without a doubt, one of the hardest houseplants to care for and are notorious for drooping and dropping their leaves with any slight change. If you’re frustrated with your fiddle, you can get the same look with a faux variety for about the same price as a real one at Pottery Barn. This artificial tree features one stem that stands up straight with 19 leaves for a more lush appeal. On top of that, it comes in a beautiful ceramic planter that is ready to style in your home.

Dimensions: 14″ x 14″ x 42″
Weight: 7.25lbs
Colors: 1

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Viagdo, Artificial Monstera Deliciosa Plant — $65.00

Monsteras are another popular houseplant, but they do require the right amount of sunlight to remain so regal-looking. For the best fake monstera plant, consider the Viado Artificial Monstera Deliciosa Plant, which features large split leaves that look so realistic for a fake plant. The best part about this plant is that all of the leaves have a wire base, so you can bend them into shape and get the plant to look the way you want it (which is definitely not always the case with real monsteras).

Dimensions: 6″ x 6″ x 46.8″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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West Elm, Faux Potted Rubber Tree, $127-$406

Rubber trees are typically good options for those who can’t keep fiddle leaf fig trees alive, as they’re a little more durable than the finicky fig. However, they’re not entirely resilient, so a faux rubber tree might be a better option for your home. If you’re on the hunt for one that looks super realistic, you might have a hard time finding one as most definitely look fake, with the exception of the Faux Potted Rubber Tree from West Elm. Inspired by the classic dark green leaf variety, this rubber tree comes in both 3 feet and 6 feet tall with the option to include a stunning modern planter, for a more authentic look.

Size options: 3′, 6′
Dimensions: 3-foot plant is 24″x 39″; pot is 12″ x 12″
6-foot plant is 24″ x 68.5″; pot is 14″ x 15″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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During a cast trip to Las Vegas and Lake Havasu City, Arizona, Leviss brought a galaxy projector light—and her co-stars Lala Kent, Katie Maloney, and Kristina Kelly all made fun of her behind her back for using the product. In a confessional interview, Kelly even went so far as to say, “I only know one other person who has this galaxy light, and it’s a 3-year-old little girl.”

Well, hot take: While we certainly can’t speak to the other drama in which Leviss is currently embroiled, we can defend anyone looking to set a bedtime mood with a galaxy projector light. Whether it’s added to a hotel bedroom on a trip, a bathroom for relaxing in the tub, or tapping into some childlike wonder in your bedroom, we stan the galaxy projector light.

The galaxy projector light can transform any room into an expansive star-scape, providing transportive energy that might make someone feel they’re actually stargazing outdoors (even if they’re tucked under some luxe sheets). And since being out in nature is connected to well-being benefits, including lowered stress and blood pressure, it’s not outrageous to consider the galaxy projector light as a tool that might help you relax and ease into a slumber.

And, lucky for us, one Reddit user actually asked Leviss for the details on her specific projector light when all of this was going down; the projector is conveniently from Amazon.

BlissLights Sky Lite Laser Star Projector — $50.00

Originally $60, now $50

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Raquel Leviss’ galaxy projector light

The light projector in question is the BlissLights Sky Lite, which is currently on sale for $50 on Amazon, and it’s an out-of-this-world way (couldn’t help ourselves) to add some celestial magic to your space.

The light is designed to project a patented celestial sky featuring drifting stars across with an RGB nebula cloud. And, as Leviss demonstrated, it’s small enough to travel with and it’s super-easy to set up with no installation required. The galaxy light also comes with Bluetooth capabilities and there is an app you can download to control all of the different celestial settings—including brightness, light effects, colors, and rotation—from the comfort of your phone.

In essence, the set-up of your home can play a role in your longevity because of the often passive ways in which we make everyday lifestyle decisions, like what to eat and when to move. “For example, Cornell found that up to 90 percent of the food choices we make each day are unconscious,” says Buettner. “So, even if I were to convince you to make good conscious decisions about what you eat, and get you to remember to make those decisions for the next 30 years, that would only cover a fraction of the total number of food decisions you’d be making daily.”

“[Blue Zones residents] live in environments that nudge them unconsciously toward healthier behaviors, like moving more and eating plants.” —Dan Buettner, longevity expert

Instead, to ensure those frequently unconscious lifestyle decisions follow a longevity-promoting course, you can take steps to engineer your surroundings so that a healthy, safe choice is the default. In that realm, design considerations as seemingly mundane as where you place your TV, how your bedroom is organized, and the height of your furniture can all factor into a longevity-boosting home.

And ever since the start of the pandemic, that couldn’t be more important to prioritize. “We spend about 90 percent of our time indoors these days,” says Ryan Frederick, CEO of SmartLiving360, a real-estate development firm that specializes in housing for healthy aging, and author of Right Place, Right Time: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Home for the Second Half of Life. In Frederick’s research on home design for mature populations, he’s found that incorporating elements of mood-boosting biophilic (aka nature-inspired) design and taking care to address accessibility can also help make any home a longevity-enhancing machine.

Below, the experts share their best home design tips for longevity, based on how the longest-living and healthiest seniors outfit their spaces.

9 home design tips for longevity, according to healthy-living experts

1. Put your TV in a room that’s far from your kitchen

We’re not going to say you can’t ever dive into a bowl of popcorn or even eat a full meal while propped on the couch—but studies have found that people tend to eat past the point of fullness when they’re also watching a show. If you have to walk several steps (or even down the stairs) to get to your kitchen from wherever you typically post up for TV time, you’re not only less likely to snack mindlessly, but also, if you do get up to grab a snack, you’re doing a little bit of walking, too. “It’s that type of regular, built-in physical activity that’s easy to maintain,” says Buettner. “And over time, it can have a more consistent effect than a gym membership, which we’ve found most people use fewer than twice a week.”

2. Keep a shoe rack by the door

According to Buettner, this is a one-two punch for longevity. With a rack by the door, you’ll be more likely to take off your shoes right when you get home, a common habit among people in Okinawa, Japan (one of the Blue Zones regions). “We’ve found that 28 percent of shoes carry fecal bacteria,” says Buettner, “and you don’t want to drag that into your home because you can get sick from it.” And separately, a rack also encourages you to keep comfortable walking or running shoes near the door, which will make you all the more likely to put them to good, active use. We love this one from Open Spaces that doubles as a decorative entryway piece.

3. Eat with family members or roommates as often as you can

Sharing a meal with others is an easy way to become more intentional about eating—which can, in turn, lead you to eat more slowly, allowing adequate time for the fullness signal to reach the brain. Not to mention, socializing is one of the core tenets of the Blue Zones regions. “And one of the best ways to build bonds with family or friends is to sit around the dinner table,” says Buettner. Doing so also creates natural punctuation between the go-go-go of the workday and the personal time of the evening, which can help you maintain work-life boundaries.

4. Grow a vegetable or herb garden

If you have any kind of outdoor space, use it to grow edible things, whether in the ground or in containers on a porch or terrace. “Gardening is something we see in every one of the Blue Zones, with people well into their nineties continuing to tend to plants and vegetables,” says Buettner. This has the triple-whammy effect of encouraging you to spend more time in fresh air, be active (weeding and watering require bending down and standing back up, after all), and eat more freshly grown foods.

And if you don’t have access to outdoor space? Set up an indoor herb garden, like this one from The Farmstand. This way, you’ll at least be more likely to consume fresh herbs, of which Buettner recommends growing rosemary and oregano, in particular. “These are often found in the Blue Zones, and they’re not only high in antioxidants but act as mild diuretics, which could help reduce blood pressure,” he says.

5. Bring elements of the outdoors into your home

To mimic the beauty of nature, Frederick suggests decorating your home with houseplants, which can naturally reduce stress. (For an easy starter option, go with a low-maintenance snake plant.) “If you can’t do that, even having pictures of natural landscapes or incorporating natural earthy and green colors into your home can help foster a positive and creativity-boosting environment,” he says, referencing the biophilic design that’s characteristic of longevity hot spot Singapore. That concept also extends to filling your home with natural light during the day by opening blinds and windows, if the weather’s nice enough to do so.

6. Design spaces with low furniture and rugs

It’s estimated that a quarter of Americans older than 65 fall each year, and it’s one of the leading causes of hospitalization, says Frederick. But no matter your age, incorporating low couches and chairs throughout your home is one simple way to steer clear of a fall that could compromise your longevity.

In Okinawa, they take it one step further and sit on the floor, says Buettner: “That means you have a 100-year-old woman getting up and down from the floor 20 or 30 times a day, which is essentially a squat. They end up having better balance, more flexibility, and great lower-body strength.” You can certainly copy that in your own home by sitting on the floor, though Buettner says low furniture works well for this purpose, too. (A cozy chair-and-a-half can do the trick.)

7. Safeguard bathrooms against slips and trips

Because they’re slippery, bathrooms rank high on the list of spots where people tend to fall at home. To prevent that, Frederick suggests laying slip-resistant mats on the floor (or installing slip-proof tiles, if you’re able to renovate), adding grab bars to the walls in the shower, and even placing a little bench in the shower. And if you’re in the market for a new place, consider choosing one with a shower instead of a tub, if you have the option, so that you don’t need to climb over the ledge to get into it, adds Frederick.

8. Calm-ify your bedroom

Creating a space that’s as conducive to sleep as possible is an easy way to get more, well, sleep—which offers a host of longevity-boosting benefits, like boosting cardiovascular health and improving cognition. In that vein, Frederick suggests installing blackout curtains on any bedroom window that gets a lot of light and setting up a white-noise machine that can fill your space with a calming and sleep-inducing sound, while also helping block out noise from outside. Regularly dusting and vacuuming your bedroom, and making your bed can also help create the kind of tranquil, sanctuary-like space that’ll help you regularly achieve high-quality sleep.

9. Make your home welcoming to guests

In the same way that eating with family members can strengthen longevity-boosting bonds, socializing more with neighbors and friends can foster the kind of relationships that may also extend your lifespan. While you might already have a dining-room or kitchen table, Frederick suggests creating other little nooks for gathering with tables and chairs throughout your space, or perhaps right outside your front door.

“There’s certainly research to suggest that having close friends supports longevity, but we also know that loose ties, like you might have with neighbors or people in your community, can boost your overall health and well-being,” says Frederick. And the more opportunities you have for engaging with those folks in and around your home, design-wise, the more likely you are to do it.

After a long winter of dormancy, spring is when your houseplants, well, spring back to life, according to plant doctor and stylist Maryah Greene. “During winter, they’re not pushing out too many leaves,” she says. “They’re just sort of sleeping.” But once spring rolls around, longer days mean more sunlight for the plants, allowing them to start growing rapidly again. And in order for them to reap the benefits of all that light and truly thrive, they may benefit from a cleaning and some maintenance, too.

Before diving in, however, it’s important to keep one guideline in mind, says Greene: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” This means that if your plants seem happy, you don’t need to make too many adjustments this spring (see: light dusting and pruning below). But, if your houseplants do show some signs of unhappiness, read on to learn how to clean and maintain them this spring in order to ensure they experience a healthy, happy warm-weather season.

Here’s how to clean and maintain your houseplants this spring to enhance their growth

1. Give them a good dusting

First up, treat your plants to the freshness of dust-free leaves. By removing the layer of dust sitting on top of the plants’ leaves, they’ll be better able to absorb sunlight, which promotes an increased growth rate, says Greene.

For smaller plants, you can dust them with a damp microfiber cloth, swiping it over the tops and bottoms of leaves; and for larger ones, Greene likes to dust with a Swiffer duster. This way, you can also pop off the disposable dusting pad and replace with a new one in between plants, which reduces the risk of passing an infection or disease from one plant to another, she says.

Nika Vaughan, the founder of Chicago-based plant and beauty shop Plant Salon, also suggests cleaning your plants with a pest-deterrent spray, like a neem oil spray, to help remove dust and debris while also repelling and knocking out pests that may be lurking under leaves.

2. Do some light pruning

Use this spring-cleaning session as an opportunity to do some light pruning (aka cutting off dead leaves), which also encourages new plant growth.

“There’s no conditioner that’s capable of [repairing split ends]. It’s the same thing for plants. Once a leaf turns brown or yellow and it’s wilted, it can’t bounce back.” —Maryah Greene, plant doctor and stylist

Greene compares these dead leaves to the split ends of hair. “There’s no conditioner that’s capable of [repairing split ends],” she says. “It’s the same thing for plants. Once a leaf turns brown or yellow and it’s wilted, it can’t bounce back.” These dead leaves are just a natural part of a plant’s life cycle. So, if you spot any of them on your plants, get to snipping; they’ll thank you later.

3. Check their placements

As you’re taking a moment to clean your plants, it’s also smart to consider where they’re located in your home and whether their placements are still providing them with an appropriate amount of light, depending on whether they thrive in brightness or prefer shadier areas.

“You may find that your home has more areas during spring and summer that will provide lots of light for your plants,” says Vaughan, which is why it’s a good time to assess and adjust accordingly. As we move into the sunnier seasons, she also suggests spacing out your plants, if they’re placed pretty close together, in order to encourage a bit more airflow between them. “The increased space can help move stagnant air and allow you to find any tucked-away pests more easily,” says Vaughan.

A word of caution: As you’re shifting things around, be careful not to move plants too far from their previous locations, especially if they seem happy and thriving, says Greene. (Otherwise, the big change could prove traumatic to them.) If you just want to make sure that they’re getting even sunlight exposure in their current spots, particularly as the amount of sunlight increases, she suggests rotating them 45-degrees once a month.

4. Adjust your watering schedule

Part of your spring houseplant maintenance should include a tweak to your watering frequency, too. During winter, there’s less of a need to water as frequently because plants receive less sunlight and therefore don’t dry out as quickly. But as spring arrives, you may need to dial up the watering because additional sunlight will cause water to evaporate more readily, leaving your plants thirsty more often.

Pro tip: The only way to really know if a plant needs water or how often you should water it is by checking the soil with a water meter (which will assess how wet it is) or, if it’s a smaller plant, by sticking a finger in the soil to determine how damp (or dry) it feels, says Greene. If the soil seems moist, you can hold off on watering, and if not, go ahead and give the plant a drink.

5. Repot if needed

In the spring, it’s also wise to consider whether any of your plants might be due for a repotting—which is something to do when it seems like a plant needs more space to grow (roots are growing out the bottom of the pot or forming a rootball, or the plant isn’t maturing any more), or it could use fresh soil (perhaps it’s become infested with pests). Because the process of repotting can be traumatic for a plant, Greene says now is the ideal time to do it (if any of the above scenarios rings true)—when the plant is otherwise exposed to the ample sunlight and optimal growing conditions of spring.

To do so, Vaughan recommends choosing a new pot that is one to two inches larger in diameter than the current pot. “Gently loosen the soil in the plant’s pot, tip the plant to the side, and tap or shimmy the plant out of its current pot,” she says. “Then, carefully loosen the plant’s roots, so that much of the old dirt falls away.” Next, set the plant to the side while adding fresh potting soil to the new pot—enough for the plant to sit just about one inch below the new pot’s rim, she adds. And lastly, place the plant in its new pot and finish adding soil to cover the roots completely.

To help narrow down your choices, the Well+Good team tried and tested some of the most popular bath towels on the market, reviewing them in terms of absorbency, texture, and overall quality. Bonus points if they’re sustainably manufactured or made from eco-friendly materials.

From luxuriously plush to quick-drying bath towels, these seven picks are the best options for upgrading your shower routine.

Best bath towels, at a glance:

• Best plush: Brooklinen Super-Plush Bath Towel Bundle, $82
• Best budget: Frontgate Resort Collection Bath Towel, $42
• Best luxury textile: Cultiver Pure Linen Bath Towel, $80
• Best quick-drying: Parachute Waffle Towel, $49
• Best Supima cotton: Onsen Bath Towel, $50
• Best organic: Coyuchi Temescal Organic Bath Towel, $78
• Best organic towel set: Homebird Plush Bath Towel Complete Set, $168

Best bath towels

Best plush

Brooklinen, Super-Plush Bath Towel Bundle — $82.00

• Material: 100% Turkish cotton
• Weight: 820 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 58 x 30 inches

Brooklinen’s bath towels live up to their name: At 820 GSM, they offer maximum plushness. Our reviewer noted the bath towel is “heavy and warm,” making it akin to cocooning yourself in a weighted blanket after a shower. The towel is absorbent too, so you can expect it to quickly soak up water. What’s more, according to our reviewer, it made the process of drying sopping wet hair much faster. Made from 100 percent Turkish cotton that’s Oeko-Tex certified, it feels soft, if a little slick, on the skin—ideal if you’re looking for something that is gentle on the face and body. A trade-off to using this plush towel is that it takes longer to dry, though our reviewer mentioned that it didn’t develop a musty odor between washes. As a bonus, the bath towels are sold as a set, and they come in a selection of classic and seasonal colors.

Pros:

• Plushest option on the list
• Highly absorbent
• Comes in a four-piece set

Cons:

• Bulky
• Slower drying time

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Best budget

Frontgate, Resort Collection Bath Towel — $42.00

• Material: 100% Turkish cotton
• Weight: 700 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 58 x 30 inches

If you’re looking for luxury at a reasonable price, look no further than Frontgate’s plush bath towels. “Perhaps the plushest, dreamiest towels I’ve ever used in my life,” raved our reviewer. They’re woven from Oeko-Tex-certified Turkish cotton that is combed to reduce shedding, making them incredibly soft and smooth as a result. According to our reviewer, they have a “memory-foam like feel,” which might be largely in part to its weight of 700 GSM. “However, while luxuriously plush, these towels can get heavy when damp and can take a while to dry,” she noted. Another thing our reviewer points out? All the color options—“they have a huge variety of colors, allowing you to mix and match to your specific style.” Choose from over 20 options, ranging from neutral to bright pops of color.

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Highly absorbent
• Comes in over 20 color options

Cons:

• Slower drying time
• Comes with only one towel

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Best luxury textile

Cultiver, Pure Linen Bath Towel — $80.00

• Material: 100% European flax
• Weight: 550 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 55 x 28 inches

If you’re interested in purchasing a bath towel made from an alternative luxury textile, this option from Cultiver is what you’ve been looking for. “If you love linen sheets, you’ll love this linen bath towel,” says our reviewer. “It’s not soft and fluffy, but it feels incredibly luxe.” It’s made from 100 percent flax, which is grown in Europe, and it has an Oeko-Tex certification. The material is known to be lightweight but absorbent, which is ideal for anyone that wants the best of both worlds. At 550 GSM, the bath towel is quite substantial too—but it isn’t so thick that it stays damp for an extended period of time. Our reviewer adds that it’s “perhaps the most beautiful bath towel I’ve ever owned,” noting the fringed edges as a nice touch. “This is a high-end bath towel, no doubt.”

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Absorbent
• Attractive design

Cons:

• Pricey
• Limited color options

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Best quick-drying

Parachute, Waffle Towel — $49.00

• Material: 100% Turkish cotton
• Weight: 240 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 56 x 30 inches

If you favor quick-drying bath towels over fluffy ones, Parachute’s waffle towels are a great option. According to our reviewer: “These towels wick away moisture quickly, but because of their soft, thin texture and slight stretch, these dry faster than thicker towels.” At 240 GSM, you will lose some fluff, but this doesn’t mean the towels skimp on softness. “I was expecting the waffle texture to be more rigid (think: white hotel waffle towels), but I was wrong,” our reviewer mentioned. “Made of 100 percent Turkish cotton, they are soft, breezy, and feel like they weigh next to nothing.” She adds that they’re attractive, too. “These light, airy towels look and feel more like expensive throw blankets than bath towels.”

Pros:

• Dries quickly
• Lightweight
• Attractive design

Cons:

• Thinner than the other options on the list
• Some reviewers say they stretch over time

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Best Supima cotton

Onsen, Bath Towel — $50.00

• Material: 100% Supima cotton
• Weight: 470 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 57 x 31 inches

Another pick with a waffle weave, this bath towel from Onsen is lightweight at 470 GSM but it can wick water away from the body with little to no effort. Plus, our reviewer mentioned that it doesn’t take long to dry after use. Its textured style offers a pleasantly invigorating sensation against the skin, but it isn’t at all scratchy. The bath towel is made of 100 percent American-grown Supima cotton, which is known for its soft and incredibly smooth skin-feel (our reviewer confirmed this), and it’s Oeko-Tex certified. “Bonus: It’s not bulky, so it hangs really nicely, which really elevates the look of my bathroom,” says our reviewer. You can shop it in several options, ranging from classic neutrals to visually appealing colors, like denim blue and a sunny yellow ochre.

Pros:

• Made of 100 percent America-grown Supima cotton
• Lightweight
• Attractive design

Cons:

• Waffle fabric may snag, according to some reviewers
• Some reviewers say it isn’t very absorbent

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Best organic

Coyuchi, Temescal Organic Bath Towel — $75.00

• Material: 100% Turkish cotton
• Weight: 600 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (GOTS certification)
• Size: 58 x 25 inches

“Coyuchi’s bath towels are where fluffiness meets function,” our reviewer proclaimed. At 600 GSM, they are neither too thick nor too thin but fall within the Goldilocks category of “just right.” In addition to being gorgeous, our reviewer notes, “these have a soft, ribbed texture that makes them great at absorbing the little droplets that a typical towel might otherwise miss.” What might be one of the best features of these bath towels is the fact that they’re made with 100% Turkish cotton that is GOTS certified, “meaning they adhere to specific global sustainability standards for cloth textile production,” our reviewer reports—a big bonus for those who want to shop sustainably. While only available in a handful of neutral colors, they’re versatile enough to fit right into any bathroom.

Pros:

• GOTS and MADE SAFE certified
• Absorbent
• Comes in various options

Cons:

• Pricey
• Some reviewers say it becomes less soft post-wash

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Best organic towel set

Homebird, Plush Bath Towel Complete Set — $170.00

• Material: 100% organic cotton
• Weight: 700 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (GOTS certification)
• Size: 58 x 30 inches (bath towel); 30 x 20 inches (hand towel); 13 x 13 inches (washcloth)

If you want to switch to sustainable bath linens, the Homebird towel set comes with everything you need. Included in the set are two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths, all made of GOTS-certified long-staple organic cotton. “When I step out of the shower, I want to step into a fluffy towel—the thicker, the better,” our reviewer says. These towels fit the bill. At 700 GSM, our reviewer describes them as “thick and absorbent,” plus “[they] stay fluffy and soft after use.” While on the plusher side, they don’t stay damp for long. “When left hanging in my bathroom with the exhaust fan running, they don’t take long to dry,” our reviewer says. “All in all, if you want your towel to feel like it’s giving you a hug, the plush towels from Homebird will do just that.” However, she recommends reaching for the brand’s Classic line if you want a super quick-drying towel.

Pros:

• GOTS-certified
• Highly absorbent
• Comes in a six-piece set

Cons:

• Expensive
• Limited color options

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What to look for when shopping for bath towels

Parima Ijaz, the founder of bedlinen brand Pure Parima who draws knowledge from years in the textile industry, told Well+Good that there are three things to consider when shopping for bath towels: material, weight, and style.

Material

First, you’ll want to think about the material of the bath towel. Bath towels are typically made from cotton or a cotton blend. If you’re after a pure cotton bath towel, look for options made from long-staple cotton, like pima and Turkish cotton, which produce soft and strong yarns that, as a bonus, are gentle on the skin. Budget-minded shoppers might want to opt for cotton-blend bath towels. They’re soft as well, though according to Ijaz, they aren’t as absorbent as options made from pure cotton. If you’re particular about purchasing bath towels made from eco-friendly materials, opt for varieties made from organic cotton, which typically requires less water and no synthetic fertilizers and pesticides to cultivate, or alternative textiles, like flax.

Those who are shopping with sustainability in mind might also want to choose options with environmental certifications that involve third-party verification to check whether a company adheres to sustainability practices. Reputable certifications include the Oeko-Tex certification (which ensures textiles are free of substances that are potentially harmful to humans and the environment), or the Global Organic Textile Standard or GOTS certification (which verifies that at least 70 percent of the fibers in a textile are organic and meet environmentally responsible processing standards).

Weight

A bath towel’s weight, measured in grams per square meter (GSM), is another consideration. Typically, a higher GSM corresponds to a thicker bath towel, with a trade-off being that it may take longer to dry. Those who prefer quick-drying options might want to opt for one with a lower GSM—or, alternatively, a loose-weave bath towel, which thanks to its breathable design, won’t stay damp for a long time and risk developing a musty odor between washes.

Style

Function aside, you might want to select a bath towel that matches your aesthetic sensibilities. Luckily, there are plenty of options on the market, from neutrals to bright pops of color, so you’re bound to find one that will make you look forward to showering and the moment that follows, aka “towel time.”

How to care for your bath towels

A quality bath towel will stand up to frequent use, says Ijaz, lasting you from five to 10 years. If you want to ensure they last a long time, proper care is essential. Follow the specific care instructions on your bath towel’s label as they can vary widely from brand to brand. Many bath towels, for instance, can be safely machine washed while others require air-drying—or at least the manufacturer recommends it.

If you’ve been dreaming of creating that Pinterest-inspired bedroom or need to swap out those flannel sheets before the thermometer starts to climb, the Brooklinen Birthday Sale has got you covered. Everything is 25 percent off now through May 8, including its famous sheets that W+G editors swear by for sweet and sweat-free dreams. Snuggle up in breezy organic cotton, airy linen, luscious mulberry silk, and buttery heathered cashmere, all for a quarter of the regular price.

With so much good stuff to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down what to bring home. That’s why we did the hard work for you: Scroll to stock up on lightweight, sweat-free bedding that’ll have you sleeping like a baby, night after night. Just do it before the Birthday Sale ends on May 8. Or, ya know, before it all sells out.

The best bedding deals from the Brooklinen Birthday Sale

Linen Core Sheet Set (Queen) — $224.00

Originally $299, now $224 (prices vary by color and size) 

Not sure where to start? How about with these beauties. Made of 100 percent linen from European flax, this core sheet set releases hot air when things get sweaty and comes with a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. Summer nights, we’re ready for ya.

Sizes available: Twin to California King

Colors: 5

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Organic Percale Core Sheet Set (Queen) — $172.00

Originally $249, now $187 (prices vary by color and size) 

Brooklinen’s new organic sheets *just* got certified for being gentler on you and the planet. Now, the Organic collection is made from 100 percent GOTS-certified cotton and is OEKO-TEX certified for chemical safety, so you can sleep soundly at night. They feel as good as the original percale sheets, only they’re easier on everyone, including Mother Earth.

Sizes available: Full to California King

Colors: 5

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Linen Duvet Cover (Full/Queen) — $221.00

Originally $295, now $221 (prices vary by color and size) 

Take it from us: You’re going to want to upgrade to something as fluffy as this duvet cover. Constructed out of OEKO-certified linen, this cover is made without harsh chemicals and will keep you cool and comfortable whenever temperatures fluctuate at night. Combined with the matching sheets, you’ll want to take out your camera because it’ll be Insta-worthy.

Sizes available: Twin to California King

Colors: 14

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Luxe Core Sheet Set (Queen) — $142.00

Originally $189, now $142 (prices vary by color and size) 

True to their name, these sheets are luxe. They’re some of the brand’s best-sellers thanks to their smooth, cool-to-the-touch finish that feels like if cotton and silk had a baby. Each set includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases, aka, everything you need to cozy up in pure luxury.

Sizes available: Twin to California King

Colors: 12

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Reversible Linen Quilt (Full/Queen) — $254.00

Originally $339, now $254 (prices vary by color and size) 

This linen quilt delivers nothing short of “summer beach house”, even if you live nowhere near the seashore. Irresistibly soft, lightweight, and adorable with its rainbow-plaid print, this quilt is one you’ll want to cozy up with all year long. Plus, it’s reversible—the flip side is a beachy neutral stripe—so you’ll get two blankets for the price of one.

Sizes available: Full to California King

Colors: 2

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Lightweight Quilt Set (Full/Queen) — $197.00

Originally $262, now $197 (prices vary by color and size) 

Another beachy set, the Lightweight Quilt Set will make all your coastal-grandma dreams come true. Unlike the Linen Reversible Quilt, it’s made from 100 percent long-staple cotton that’s cool but still cozy, perfect for bundling up on hot summer nights. Each set comes with a quilt and two shams. Straw hat and glass of pinot grigio not included.

Sizes available: Full to California King

Colors: 3

 

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Linen Move-In Bundle — $547.00

Originally $862, now $549 (prices vary by size and color) 

If you need a full upgrade, Brooklinen’s Linen Move-In Bundle has it all. This feather-light set has everything you need to set the bed for summer, including a sheet bundle, comforter, two pillows, and a free silk eye mask (so luxe). After a long, cold winter, it’s basically a summer escape in bundle form.

Sizes available: Twin to Cali King

Colors: 4

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“When you’re looking at doing perennials for your outdoor space, whether you have a garden or you’re going to do container gardening, however you plan to approach your garden, you really want to make sure that you’re thinking about the environment that you have,” says Palomares. “You want to take into consideration how much light you have in your space, whether you get a lot of sunlight or you’re in a more shady environment. That’s going to be really important to understand as you plan for the plant that you pick going into your garden.” A light meter ($16) can help with that.

Next, you’ve got to think about soil and spacing. Figuring out if you want to place your perennials directly in the ground or in pots will help you figure out how many to buy. If your plant needs a special type of soil that’s very different from what you have naturally, choosing to pot your perennials can be an easy solve.

“You also want to think about how big these perennials are going to get over time and the space that you have, and whether that’s going to work in your favor,” he says. “Because if you’re talking about low-maintenance plants, you want to make sure your planning ahead so it’s going to get the desired effect that you have.”

Lastly, you want to consider when your plants will be in bloom. If you plant nothing but daffodils, they’ll be super pretty until they start to wilt in May, leaving you with a bare garden for the rest of the year. Planning your garden with this in mind is called “staging,” explains Palomares. Keep in mind that you can always supplement your perennials with annuals (plants you have to replant every year) if you need some added color that will last throughout the warmer months.

8 Low-Maintenance Perennial Flowers That Return Year After Year

Lavender — $20.00

“One of my favorites is the lavender plant. This is a great plant, it’s a fragrant plant,” says Palomares. “It has beautiful blooms as it comes up in the season. You can really find those in nice temperate climates throughout the United States. That one does require more sun, and you really do want that well-drained soil. You want to make sure you have the right environment for that.”

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Daffodils — $9.00

“Something like a daffodil, which is really one of those first signs of spring, if you plant those bulbs in the fall, those are a great plant that you’re going to see early on in the season, just as the seasons are about to turn away from winter to spring,” says Palomares. You can buy five and get five bulbs to get this gorgeous dandelion mix for $15.

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Azaleas — $17.00

Azaleas are a fantastic low-maintenance plant available in a variety of blooming colors, whether it’s a white, pink, red. “Sometimes you’ll see some yellow blooms on there as well,” says Palomares. “Azaleas thrive in a nice, cool, moist climate, and they bloom in late spring and early summer. And they bloom for quite some time, so I think that’s a really easy-to-care-for plant that gives you that great pop of color that you might be wanting. It’s also is one that you can also plant in a container. You might have to prune back slightly just to make sure that it stays within the right size. But that one also does very well, whether you do that in the ground or a container.”

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Tulips (2-Pack) — $20.00

“Tulips—a great, easy, low-maintenance bulb that, as long as you’re planting it at the right times, you’re going to get that really first pop of color, that first bloom in your garden, and then you progress into some of your other perennials,” says Palomares. Shop eight Amber Glow Tulip bulbs for $13 and plant them in the fall.

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Peonies — $30.00

“Peonies, again, those are just those really big just gorgeous floral blooms that you’re going to get out of your perennials plants, and they come in great colors—white, red, coral, purple,” says Palomares. “These are plants that are going to go dormant in the wintertime, but when you plant them they’re going to thrive. They can grow to be five feet tall, so these are one of those you want to plan ahead for. You want to make sure you have that space to support the peonies.” Peonies thrive in areas with cold winters so be sure to take that into consideration. Shop this 5-pack of peony bulbs and plant them after the first frost.

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Lilacs — $58.00

“Lilacs are also known for their very fragrant florals. It’s a beautiful perennial,” he says. “You’re going to see that in many different shades of purple and lavender and blues.” Lilacs bloom in the spring.

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Black-Eyed Susans — $17.00

“Other favorites are the black-eyed Susans, which is this really bright, happy plant,” says Palomares. “It’s really one of those things that attract all of those pollinating insects, bees and butterflies, and all of those great things.” Shop this three-pack of 2.5 quart yellow black-eyed Susan plants.

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Hostas — $27.00

“Hostas are probably one of the easiest perennials that you could handle. They love partial shade, so that’s perfect for those areas if you’re more north-facing and don’t get a lot of sun in your backyard,” says Palomares. “They can get very large in size, provided you have the right space and care for them. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Hostas are a great perennial. Even if you do have full sun, there’s always kind of that spot in your garden that doesn’t get quite all of the sun—this is one of those great plants for that space. And they will spread. So you’re putting them into the ground, this is one that has that opportunity to give you additional plants year over year as that root system continues to grow.” Shop this pack of four hosta plants.

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The most pet-friendly plants, according to a plant doctor:

Second, and more selfishly, I wanted a chic chair. Like, one of those cloud-like bouclé chairs all the influencer girlies have in their airy, modern apartments. A tried-and-true Cancer, I’m naturally a nester and a homebody. I love aesthetics and creating a spaces that make me feel good, places I can retreat to when I’m craving alone time, or can show off when I’m entertaining. That leather chair was not part of the equation—it was time for a change.

So when I had the opportunity to check out a Sixpenny slipcover chair, I jumped at the chance. The New York-based furniture brand makes stunning, timeless pieces using beautiful, eco-friendly materials, many of which are washable and easy to care for. An excuse to ditch the leather fossil for good!? And with something that looked like it was handpicked by an interior designer? Count me in.

Turns out, we don’t miss that old leather chair so much anymore. In fact, we love our Sixpenny armchair so much we often fight over who gets to sit in it, dog included. Find my full review, below.

Customizing your chair

I finally settled on the Neva Chair ($1,449) which, per the website, is “the fluffiest, comfiest ‘wow this is soft’ collection we’ve made. Neva’s playfully minimal style will turn any room into an effortless oasis.” Sold.

Sixpenny, Neva Chair

Prices start at $1,449 and vary by upholstery. 

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Before ordering, though, I was sent a box of fabric swatches to choose from, which I highly recommend doing, since this is an heirloom investment piece. Currently, the Neva Chair can be upholstered in 32 materials: cotton canvas, cotton linen, thread-dye cotton linen, washed cotton linen, washed cotton velvet, lightweight linen, medium-weight linen, and faux fur. Prices vary based on material. You can choose up to 12 fabric and leather swatches for free; anything after that is $2 a piece.

You also choose your fill, which is available in a feather down (a blend of ethically-sourced feather, ethically-sourced down, and vegan poly fiber) or a vegan poly-fill, “made to mimic the decadent, sink-in experience of feather-filled cushions.” Color-wise, I landed on a creamy washed cotten-linen blend called “Corn Silk” (since the slipcovers can easily be cleaned, I felt a bit more comfortable going with white than I normally would). As for the fill, I opted for the poly-fill, since I try to live as animal-free as much as possible.

Some of the color/fabric combinations are ready to ship, but the “Corn Silk” was not. Since the piece was handcrafted, it took 10-12 weeks to order. Depending on the materials you choose, the lead time can fluctuate  bit, Still, 10-12 weeks is pretty standard for custom furniture.

Delivery

Fun fact: Nearly every piece of furniture I own I’ve had to put together myself. From my bed-frame and dressers down to my ottomans, almost all of my furniture has arrived disassembled in boxes, leaving me and my disgruntled boyfriend to put them together. To my delight, the Neva Chair is made-to-order and arrives fully assembled (for free) at your door, no flat-lay boxes or Alan wrenches to be wrestled with. Scheduling your delivery is easy, and if there are any special requirements or arrangements to be made, the company coordinates that with you ahead of time.

On delivery day, my Neva Chair arrived in one of the biggest cardboard boxes I’ve ever seen, which was promptly brought inside and opened by two delivery men. I simply told them where I wanted it to go, they stripped away the cardboard and other packaging, and set it up—easy as pie. It took all of five minutes and—arguably the best part—they discarded all of the waste for me, so I wasn’t stuck with mounds of cardboard until trash day. This was my first go at white-glove service and let me tell you—it’s luxe!

The Sixpenny Neva Chair: An honest review

Look and feel

My first impression of the stunning Neva Chair was, “Wow, it’s huge.” Measuring out at 44 “x 41” x 33”, it’s a big, boxy throne. While it’s not noticeably taller than most chairs, it’s definitely wider—the seat width is a whopping 38”, meaning there’s plenty of room for sprawling out in.

Size aside, as soon as it was set up I turned to my boyfriend and said, “This is the nicest piece of furniture I will probably ever own.” It’s stunning. The Corn Silk Linen is gorgeous and so soft, it practically drips luxury. I love its minimalist look, slightly mussy covers, and soft lines, and find it really opens up my space (especially against the ’70s-style wood paneling that’s been leftover in our living room).

More importantly, it’s a cloud a chair form. Holy soft. As soon as I sat down into this thing I knew I’d never want to get out of it. The poly-fill cushion is so sink-in-able but still supportive, so your body can completely and totally relax. Even more impressive is its width. At 5’9″, I can sit on my side with my knees curled up, almost like I’m on a human-sized dog bed—it’s that big. If we wanted to, my boyfriend and I could sit in it together with our legs sprawled out on my Levity Ottoman ($299) (which matches perfectly, BTW). However, if I do share it, I prefer to do it with my dog, who’s smaller and arguably a better cuddler. However, we all like our space, which is an issue because we all like the chair, and are thus constantly fighting over who gets to sit in it.

Quality and price point

As my first “adult” piece of furniture, I get why people pay for custom furniture. I’m not discounting drop-ship products, by any means. But there is something satisfying about having a piece that’s made for you, with the high-quality fabrics and fill you want.

The Neva Chair is undoubtedly my nicest piece of furniture because of its quality. Like I said, everything is handcrafted, not put together by machines or robots. The frame is made from kiln-dried wood and plywood, which is then reinforced with corner blocking and finished with a high-tenacity webbing (aka, you won’t fall through). The cushion isn’t just filled with poly-down but rather features three layers of foam for additional support. Each cushion in Sixpenny’s lineup is made with a foam core of high-density foam sandwiched between two “comfort layers” of medium-density foam. That way they’re still lofty but not so lofty you get stuck in them.

Its piece de resistance, IMO, are its slipcovers. Yes, slipcovers! If before you were scratching your head as to why I would let my dirty, rotten hound climb up on a $1,500 chair, it’s all because of the slipcovers, which can be unzipped and cleaned in a pinch. Technically, it’s a washable chair, however, you’re going to want to wash it carefully depending on the materials you get.

Per the Sixpenny website, natural linen (like mine) and cotton are better off dry-cleaned. You can definitely get away with a spot treatment (I’ve done it) and, if you’re really careful, a washing machine with cold water and mild detergent. Additionally, “while we always recommend washing every component of your slipcover consecutively to maintain color uniformity, it’s important to wash every piece of the slipcover on its own.” And with the zippers closed, as they can get snagged on the agitator when left open.

I haven’t found I’ve needed to clean mine yet. As I mentioned, spot cleaning has done the trick (heads up: there are some fabrics, like the thread-dyed linens, that can’t be) as has vacuuming with my upholstery attachment for dirt and dog hair. Even if I am forced to go to the dry cleaner, having slipcovers makes me feel so much better about the lifespan of my chair, which, given the hefty price tag, better be a long time.

Sustainability

In the year 2023, we should be doing everything we can do be sustainable. This includes shopping from responsible, ethical brands which prioritize the earth’s well-being as much as our own. Thankfully, Sixpenny does just that.

First are the materials, most of which are natural (pure linen, cotton), if not at least recycled. Most fabrics are hand-dyed in small batches, and nothing is treated or coated with any protective performance repellants—it’s au naturel. Certain pieces also feature reclaimed woods like oak and pine “etched with over 30 years of history in every knot.” There’s also the fill, which is ethically sourced, too. According to the Sixpenny website, their distributor “only uses non-live-plucked down feathers, which they obtain as natural byproducts of the food industry. They’re audited and inspected by the Feather and Down Association every year, and their certification is renewed annually.”

Each piece is also built to last. Considering the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates an average 9 million tons of furniture end up in landfills each year, durability is automatically a win for planet Earth. The slipcovers are a big part of this. Rather than having to throw a piece away or replace something entirely, you can clean it in a jiffy. Perhaps a slipcover is beyond repair—that’s okay, you don’t need to nix the whole chair. You can buy another one on its own. (Just be prepared, it’ll cost a pretty penny—The Neva Chair Slipcovers currently start at $449 each.) But better than forking over another $1,500 to replace the whole chair.

A steep price tag can be tough to swallow but with eco-friendlier options, it’s worth it in the end if you can swing the cost. For you, the planet, and (maybe) your wallet.

Final thoughts

Time for the million-dollar question: Is the Sixpenny Neva Chair worth it? Unequivocally, undoubtedly yes. In fact it’s so good, I’m trying to convince my boyfriend to let us buy the matching Neva Sectional, which is a cool $4,000. (He’s not having it.)

I think my mother—a tough critic with a natural eye for interior design—said it best: “Wow, this chair is the bomb.” She never said that about the old leather chair we replaced, so… ’nuff said

A supple leather sectional from West Elm, this piece of furniture is gorgeous—it’s the best thing I’ve ever purchased, and I will love it forever. You know who else loves it? My dogs. They sleep on it, drool on it, stretch on it, eat on it—and they scratch it up with their gigantic wolf dog nails, even though I carefully cover it with a special, dog-friendly throw blanket when guests aren’t over. The first time it happened, I panicked, Googling “how to fix a leather couch when your dogs have confirmed you make bad shopping decisions by scratching your thousands-of-dollars sectional oh my god why am I so dumb.”

Luckily, I found a cheap and effective solution: Furniture Clinic Leather Re-Coloring Balm ($30).

Furniture Clinic, The Original Leather Re-Coloring Balm — $30.00

Pros:

• Easy color match
• Covers surface-level scratches and marks
• Simple to use
• Comes with two sponges to apply solution
• One tub will last you years
• No odor

Cons:

• It won’t permanently cover scratches and marks
• You may have to try different colors before finding the exact one
• It won’t work if you don’t have absorbent leather (if liquids slide right off, you don’t have absorbent leather)

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My honest review of Furniture Clinic Leather Re-Coloring Balm

It’s not a permanent solution, but it will easily hide scratched leather. The balm, which comes in 16 different colors, applies like a thick paint: You take one of the two sponges that are included, and you simply apply a small amount to the part of the leather that’s damaged. I’ll apply a coat of the balm to my entire couch a couple of hours before I have company (it’s quick-drying, but I like to give it some time, just in case people are wearing light clothing—I’ve never had an issue with the balm rubbing off on anyone), and the re-coloring effect will last for a few weeks.

It’s designed to be versatile, too. You can use the re-coloring balm on furniture, shoes, car seats—anything made with absorbent leather is game. What I really love about it is that it’s super easy to use (you don’t need a masters in reupholstery), and it’s pretty mess-free. If you get some on your hands or clothes, the dye isn’t permanent, so it comes right off with water (although I would highly recommend wearing gloves and an outfit you don’t that much about to be on the safe side).

And it really, really works. I’m honestly shocked by how well it masks scratches and makes my couch look near-new. It restores my couch’s rich, cognac-brown leather so that the surface looks cleaner, more vibrant, and most importantly, scratch-free. The color balm I have is “medium brown” and it’s supposed to match three shades. Another nice thing is that you don’t have to apply the balm to the entire couch—you can spot treat, and the color blends right in.

I mean, it’s pretty dang impressive.

The Furniture Clinic balm has over 11,000 5-star review on Amazon, which isn’t surprising. “My couches are VERY scratched and worn from the dogs and kids. I bought this stuff in an effort to get these to last a little longer before we have to purchase new couches. I figured it’s worth a try, they can’t get any worse. This stuff works amazingly well,” one shopper says.

Another says, “We have a wonderful high-quality leather sofa. The dog and kids over 15 years created scratches, liquid spills and just sitting wear marks. I love the couch and quality-wise it was still in like new great physical shape. It just (understandably) didn’t look new any more and really I was going to buy a new one. I thought, what harm could it do to try this fix. I was shocked. It looks like it was when first purchased. I’m not kidding in the least.”

Me and my dogs give Furniture Clinic an A+ and two thumbs (and paws) up.

The best cooling pillows, at a glance:

• Best overall: Coop Home Goods, The Eden, $96
• Best budget: Qutool, Cooling Pillows, $39
• Best latex: Purple, Harmony Pillow, $143
• Best hybrid: Casper, Hybrid Pillow, $99
• Best gel: Allswell, Cooling Gel Pillow, 40
• Best value: Casper, Essential Cooling Pillow, $60
• Best support: Sleep Number, Contoured Pillow, $130

Do cooling pillows actually work?

The short answer: Yes. Temperature is a big factor in a person’s ability to fall asleep, and cooling pillows bring down a sleeper’s body temperature. When a person sleeps hot, it can cause them to wake up more often in the night and not spend as much time in deeper stages of sleep, according to Peter Polos, MD, PhD, FCCP, FAASM, a sleep medicine specialist and sleep expert at Sleep Number. “Cooling pillows regulate temperature throughout the night and are made with materials that absorb excess heat and humidity to help the sleeper cool,” says Dr. Polos. “A cool sleep environment (best at 68 degrees Fahrenheit) can help promote sleep in general, and a cooling pillow can add to that.”

What to look for in a cooling pillow

Firmness is essential when narrowing down a cooling pillow, says Dr. Polos. “In general, a firmer pillow is associated with less neck and shoulder discomfort,” he explains. Firmer pillows are usually made of memory foam, latex, and down fill, whereas softer pillows can be made of down and down with feathers. However, softer pillows work best if you’re a stomach sleeper, as it puts less stress on the neck.

Cooling pillow materials

Dr. Polos also recommends checking the material before you buy. Cooling pillows are made with a variety of materials, including:

Gel

Gel pillows are infused with pockets of cooling gel, which “has a cool touch feel and helps draw heat away from the body,” says Logan Foley, certified sleep coach and managing editor at sleepfoundation.org. There are different designs, including gel pods, embedded gel layers, and gel infusions in the material of the pillow.

Latex

Latex pillows are usually made of 100 percent latex or latex derived from rubber. Of all the materials, latex is one of the most cooling materials because it’s porous, allowing ventilation of hot air. “Latex helps dissipate heat and promote airflow,” adds Foley.

Memory foam

Memory foam pillows are made of foam that’s engineered with viscose and elastic. While supportive, traditional block memory foam can retain more heat than shredded memory foam, so it’s best to stick with the latter if you sleep hot.

Down and feather fill

Down pillows are usually stuffed with natural filling from ducks and geese and are used primarily to keep people warm. However, down pillows tend to be more breathable than memory foam and are ideal for stomach sleepers due to their soft nature. On the other hand, feather fill is breathable because it leaves room for airflow and helps to maintain a cooler sleeping environment for any sweaty folks. If you have allergies or would prefer not to use animal feathers, you’ll want to avoid this filling.

Foley says that gel and latex are the most common materials found in cooling pillows due to its natural cooling capabilities.

How long do cooling pillows last?

Depending on the materials, cooling pillows should last between three and four years, says Foley. “Choosing a high-quality fill and firmness level for your sleeper type should help your pillow last longer,” says Foley.

With so many cooling pillow options, it can be quite the search to find the best option for you. Considering this, we did the leg work and rounded up the best cooling pillows of every budget, material, and firmness. Scroll down to see the top picks.

Best overall

Coop Home Goods, The Eden — $96.00

There’s no place we’d rather be than in our beds, sleeping on Coop Home Goods’ Eden Pillow. It’s constructed out of cooling gel-infused memory foam (that bounces right back even after a night’s sleep) and micro-fiber filling that keeps your temperature low while providing long-lasting comfort and support throughout the night. That’s how the pillow gets its “air conditioning” name. For areas where you need extra support, stuff the extra half pound of filling, which is included with each purchase.

The foam is enclosed in a plush, machine-washable cover, so you can easily take it off and throw it in the washer on laundry day. Breathable, supportive, and hypoallergenic—it’s no wonder why our editors swear by it. We promise you’ll love it, too.

Material: 100 percent virgin memory foam and microfiber

Pros:

• Cooling-gel memory foam
• Machine-washable cover
• Supportive
• Comes with extra fill

Cons:

• Heavy
• Expensive

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Best budget

Qutool, Cooling Pillows (Pack of 2) — $39.00

Cooling pillows can cost a pretty penny, but Qutool’s pack of two is a budget-friendly buy. Each pillow is crafted out of memory foam and microfibers, delivering a cloud-like feel that’s soft, cushioned, and supportive. The foam contours to the unique shape of your neck, so you’ll no longer wake up with a stiff neck. And since it’s shredded, warm air doesn’t stay trapped inside (too-da-loo, night sweats), keeping you cool all night long.

Just FYI, Amazon shoppers say the pillows can run on the firmer side, so it may not be ideal for stomach sleepers. Overall, the pillow boasts 7,000 five-star ratings on Amazon with customers saying it’s their “favorite pillow ever.” For just $50 (it’s on sale for $40, btw), you can cop two dreamy pillows. So dreamy, it’s like sleeping on clouds.

Material: memory foam and microfiber

Pros:

• Affordable
• Comes with two pillows
• Made of shredded memory foam

Cons:

• May not be ideal for stomach sleepers

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Best latex

Purple, Harmony Pillow — $143.00

For sweltering hot sleepers, latex works best, and you’ll want to add Purple’s Harmony Pillow to your sleep regimen. The honeycomb-like structure vents hot air, front to back, so you won’t wake up in a sweat. Covered in a moisture-wicking and breathable mesh material, the pillow has these extra cooling capabilities. The elastic polymer composition is ideal because it holds its shape over time, giving you support for months and years to come. It’s durable, holds its shape, and is hypoallergenic: this pillow, as the name implies, will leave you in “harmony” and peace. Finally, a sweat-free night!

Material: Elastic polymer

Pros:

• Extremely breathable
• Hypoallergenic
• Holds shape

Cons:

• May not be ideal looking for a firm pillow

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Best hybrid

Casper, Hybrid Pillow — $99.00

Sleeping on Casper’s Hybrid Pillow is like sleeping on a marshmallow. It’s pillowy—yet-supportive—all thanks to its fiber and foam blend, and it doesn’t need any fluffing because it holds its shape pretty well. Because of the hybrid and three-layer design, shoppers say that it “offers great neck support” and leaves behind “no sweaty head.” Even on warm nights, it’s cool to the touch. To clean the pillow, simply remove the machine-washable cover and wash in cold water.

Material: polyurethane foam and polyester fiber

Pros:

• Hybrid design
• Marshmellow feel
• Offers neck support

Cons:

• Expensive

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Best gel

Allswell, Gel Cooling Pillow — $40.00

The one-stop shop for luxurious and affordable home goods, Allswell should be at the top of your list. This one is infused with cooling gel that activates once heat is detected. It transfers heat away from the body, so you can get a good night’s snooze (let the Zzzz commence). In addition to gel, the base of the pillow is memory foam, so you’ll have support and comfort. Plus, it comes with an OEKO-TEX certified cover—which means the cover was made free of harmful chemicals and ingredients. Tossing or turning is no longer a thing with Allswell Cooling Pillow. Sweet dreams!

Material: gel and memory foam

Pros:

• Affordable
• OEKO-TEX Certified
• Memory foam

Cons:

• May be too thick for some

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Best value

Casper, Essential Cooling Pillow — $60.00

Casper’s Essential Cooling Pillow has all the elements Dr. Polos had talked about. It’s buoyant (but still supportive) and breathable, and is filled with microfibers for a comfy snooze. The pillow has chambers to bar the material from clumping, so you’ll have a smooth place to rest your head. The 100 percent cotton cover is airy and absorbs warmth even if you’re tossing or turning. The pillow, which features a cool-to-the-touch cover, will begin to chill your head as soon as it touches the pillow. All of these features make it worth the $60 valuation. You won’t want to stop snuggling with it.

Material: Microfiber and cotton

Pros:

• Has chambers to prevent clumping
• Cotton cover
• Supportive
• 30-night trial

Cons:

• May be too plush for some

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Best support

Sleep Number, True Temp Pillow — $129.00

For those who need a little extra support, Dr. Polos recommends Sleep Number’s True Temp Pillow. This pillow is engineered with the brand’s proprietary technology called 37.5 Technology. Essentially, it has active particles from volcanic rock (cool, we know)—which captures moisture and heat. The curvature of the True Temp pillow offers neck support and is ideal for back and side sleepers who need a little extra va va voom. What’s more, it comes with a fiberfill cover that’s cool to the touch, so you don’t overheat and removable foam inserts to customize your support how you like it.

Material: foam

Pros:

• Contoured pillow
• Comes with removable foam inserts
• Supportive

Cons:

• Expensive

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Since Oprah, there have been many other plants that have come and gone. My mom even suggested purchasing a hard-to-kill snake plant that’s I’ve named Isobel. I’ve been doing everything in my power to keep her alive—and that includes figuring out what to threats to soil to avoid so that I don’t wind up with another Oprah situation on my hands.

So before it’s too late for Isobel, I spoke with soil and environmental scientist Agnieszka Piwowarczyk, PhD, (better known as Dr. Aga) to learn more about what plants need from soil to not only survive, but thrive.

Firstly, what is potting soil made of?

Potting soil or potting compost isn’t technically soil at all. It’s a mix of components like peat moss, and some extra organic materials like stone wool, perlite, and vermiculite that are very nutrient-dense and offer good drainage, says Dr. Aga. Unlike real soil, which can contain fungus or bacteria that could harm your houseplants, potting mix is typically sterilized to protect them from microorganisms that could cause disease.

So you can sort of think of potting compost as a blank canvas. To maintain its high-nutrient quality, you need to water and fertilize it regularly, but equally as important as what you introduce to your soil is what you make sure to keep out of it.

3 common threats to soil and how to safeguard against them

1. Home pesticides

Like with humans and what we put in and on our bodies, introducing toxins into your potting mix is a common threat to soil that can disrupt its natural ecosystem. “We want to avoid the different forms of [commercial] pesticides for home use,” says Dr. Aga. “These chemicals not only contain reduced concentrations of the active ingredients, but can be equally harmful to the life of the soil overtime, thus affecting our plants too.” The purpose of any pesticide is to protect plants for irritants like insects, weeds, or even infectious organisms. Should you find yourself in need of safeguarding your houseplants from any of the above, opt for natural pesticides like neem oil instead. They are non-toxic solutions vetted by the EPA for use on organic food so they are A-okay to spritz on your plant babies.

2. Soil compaction

Dr. Aga says you also never want to let your potting soil lose its structural stability, a state known as soil compaction that doesn’t allow air and water to pass through. Similarly to how we want our skin care to really sink in through our pores, soil needs tiny holes through which to absorb water and plant food. When compaction occurs, the pore space is so tight, and that reduces the rate of both water infiltration, as well as drainage on the other side. This can impact root development (or even create root rot) and lead to smaller plant sizes. Over or under watering your plants can cause to soil compaction, as can using a pot without adequate airflow—typically, this is the case with plastic ones. To aerate your soil and loosen things up, you can use chopsticks to poke holes into it, but if that doesn’t work, consider repotting your plant with new potting mix.

3. Bleached soil 

The color of potting soil is another indicator of its health. “Never let the soil go light in color unless your plants don’t have many requirements like cacti,” warns Dr. Aga. “For  most plants that enjoy richer soils, we want the soil to be dark brown or even almost black. Losing this dark color indicates losing the soil organic matter. Adding compost and other soil amendments like feeds should help to maintain the desired organic matter status of the soil.” If that still doesn’t help, she suggests changing the soil.

We know that hosting can quickly become a costly endeavor, so we chatted with the pros, aka party planners, to learn what hosting materials are worth and not worth investing in.

What not to waste your money on

Overly-themed dinnerware

First off, Hovik Harutyunyan, a party planner and creative director at Harutyunyan Events, says that you can ditch the overly-themed dinnerware. Plates with holiday themes, seasonal or bold patterns, and vibrant colors don’t age well and “given their highly specific looks and aesthetic, they can only be used during certain times of the year, so they don’t really get you a lot of mileage,” he says. Instead, Harutyunyan recommends investing in two or three timeless dinnerware collections that can be used all throughout the year or creatively mixed and matched. Solid and or neutral colors work best.

Themed disposable decor

Next up: Overly-themed disposables. According to Rachel St Amour, a principal partner and co-owner of Van Saint Group, themed partyware (think: paper Mardi Gras signs)—which you can find in the aisles of Party City or Target—may be cute at first, but they’ll just end up in storage or your trash bin. “Opt instead for solid colors that go along with the theme; you’ll be so much more likely to be able to reuse those in the future,” she says.

Non-edible party favors

If you’re thinking small trinkets or non-edible party favors—don’t do it. “Most of the time, you’ll be left with an excess of them for years to come,” says St Amour. “If you are absolutely compelled to have a favor for your guests, opt for something edible. No one is ever sad to see a specialty cookie, little jar of jam, or infused olive oil.”

What host essentials to invest in

Serveware

Serving dishes not only elevate your space and event, but they’re also practical. “Investing in a variety of shapes and styles of appetizer bowls, platters, trays, cake stands, cutting boards, and cheese knives will not only make your food look more beautiful, but will make planning your party (and its menu) all that much easier,” says Harutyunyan.

Gomakren, Serving Platters (Set of 3) — $39.00

For dinner parties, spruce up the table with Gomakren’s Serving Platters. They have exaggerated corners that look aesthetically pleasing, are easy to grab, and fit all dishes, from pasta to salad to protein. Food never looked this pretty.

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Uncommon Goods, Compact Swivel Cheese and Tapas Board — $98.00

Host to impress with this Compact Swivel Charcuterie Board from Uncommon Goods. Made of sturdy bamboo, this board features special sockets for ceramic serving bowls, a built-in groove for crackers, and a hidden drawer to store cheese knives. From fruits to nuts to salami—this board holds it all.

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Williams Sonoma, Black Marble Cheese Boards — $80.00

Build your dream butter board with Williams Sonoma’s Black Marble Cheese Boards. The black Marquina marble looks incredibly classy with its delicate white veins, and since marble is naturally cooling, it’ll keep fruit and cheese fresh throughout your event. I know this sounds cheesy, but this board really is “grate.”

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West Elm, Marble and Brass Charcuterie Knives (Set of 3) — $42.00

No cheese board is complete without a set of charcuterie knives, and this set of three is timeless. The set includes a knife, spreader, and slicer to make munching a breeze. See, everything tastes gouda!

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Sweese, 10-Ounce Porcelain Bowls (Set of 6) — $28.00

Originally $30, now $28

For appetizers like olives or nuts, use these perfectly sized porcelain bowls that look a lot more expensive than they are. This set of six is ideal for holding side dishes like soup, salads, cereal, fruit, and ice cream (ice cream partay anyone?). Made of durable porcelain, these bowls are durable and have a classic look with an all white finish. Plus, the curved design adds visual appeal to any space.

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Lustide, Ceramic Shell Shape — $10.00

We also love these squiggly bowls for smaller sides (like fruit, nuts, sauces, and dips). The shell-shape is unique and doubles as decor, and the bowls are perfectly sized to be easily passed around the table. Each dish is glazed to prevent staining and are made of chip-resistant porcelain for durability in the years of hosting to come.

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Timeless dinnerware

Investing in timeless and high-quality dinnerware is a better investment. Harutyunyan says you can’t go wrong with a classic all white china set, one with a gold or silver border, or a more modern and playful set.

Our Place, Set the Table Set — $225.00

Originally $260, now $225

Harutyunyan recommends investing in staple dinnerware sets, and this one from Our Place is timeless (but still feels effortlessly modern). The set comes with everything you need to host brunch or dinner. What’s included? Four large ceramic plates, four midi plates, four small dessert plates, large bowls for pastas and salads, and small bowls for dessert. Available in four colors, pink, cream, orange, and charcoal, this set will stand the tale of time no matter if it’s a party, baby shower, or casual get-together. Happy hosting!

Colors: 4

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Gibson Home, Zuma Dinnerware Set (Set of 16) — $50.00

Originally $55, now $50

As recommended by Harutyunyan, solid colors work best because they tend to age better over time. That’s the case with this set of 16 by Gibson Home. This set comes with four of each dinner plates, dessert plates, bowls, and mugs for the ultimate feast. Each piece has a smooth and matte finish to illuminate whatever you’re cooking in the kitchen. Available in seven solid colors, from yellow to black to grey, there’s a color for your hosting needs.

Colors: 7

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Anthropologie, Glinda Glass Dessert Plate — $10.00

Tea party? Look no further than Anthropologie’s Glinda Glass Dessert Plates. These seven-inch flower petal-like plates are made of glazed glass—which look beautifully when paired with cake. Now these plates are worth saying “cheers” to.

Colors: 4

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West Elm, Kaloh Melamine Outdoor Dinnerware Collection — $152.00

For outdoor soirées, you can do no wrong with Kaloh Melamine’s dinnerware collection. This set comes with 16 items: four dinner plates, salad plates, pasta bowls, and cereal bowls. Each piece is lightweight, durable for outdoor conditions, and has a modern look. It’s available in classic colors like white, gray, and black, and the light blue color way makes for a unique pop of color.

Colors: 4

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Anthropologie, Shiny Latte Pasta Bowls (Set of 4) — $56.00

These Latte Bowls from Anthropologie give pasta parties new meaning. Each bowl fits spaghetti, fettuccine, and more. The finish undergoes a glaze process, giving the bowls a smooth, sleek look—like they were *just* dipped in half-and-half. Choose from cream, lavender, pink, maize, and terra cotta, and if you can’t choose, the assortment works, too.

Colors: 5

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Famiware, Plates and Bowls Set (Set of 12) — $70.00

For something with a bit more design and texture, Famiware’s Plates and Bowls Set is another way to spruce up your event. This stoneware set comes with four dinner plates, salad plates, and cereal bowls. You can plate soups, salads, entrees, and even desserts. What’s more, these plates passed the dishwasher and microwave vibe test, all of which are safe to use on those devices, making clean up easy peasy.

Colors: 5

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Candles

Another cost-friendly way to spruce up your event is through candles. “Candles are one of the easiest, quickest, and most affordable ways to spruce up any party,” says Harutyunyan. “I recommend having a bulk set on hand at all times that you can throw on a table in a moment’s notice for even last-minute entertaining situations.”

Hosley, Ivory Unscented Candles (Set of 48) — $40.00

This 48-pack of candles come recommended by Harutyunyan. This bulk set features 48 ivory and unscented candles that immediately brighten up the room. Add around your event space or use to set up the dinner table. Whatever way you use them, it helps that they go with everything.

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Burke Decor, Fukai Candles — $6.00

There’s something about tall candles that can jazz up a table, and these Fukai Candles from Burke Decor are jaw-dropping. The wick is made of cotton and is OEKO-TEX certified and lead-free. All in all, the candle last 12 hours, so you’ll get plenty of use.

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Oatnauxil, Gold Candle Holders (Set of 6) — $26.00

Originally $30, now $26

If you’ve got a little extra spending cash, candle holders are another great way to beautify your space, says Harutyunyan. These gold candle holders are timeless and come in three different heights: small, medium, and large.

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Cloth napkins

Having cloth napkins like linen and cotton can go a long way, since guests will be using them throughout the event. “I recommend investing in a few key color sets that will give you great value,” explains Harutyunyan. It also helps that they can be reused time and time again, making them more earth-friendly. White for formal entertaining, a soft green for spring or summer, and a burgundy one for fall and winter. He adds that you can find beautiful linen and cloth napkins at Target or Sur La Table.

Solino Home, White Linen Napkins (Set of 4) — $38.00

Linen can really jazz up your table setup, and we’re swooning over these white linen napkins from Solino Home. Made of 100 percent flax linen, these napkins are lightweight and are perfectly suited for spring and summer dinners. Even more, they’re machine-washable and are extremely easy to care for. No matter the occasion, be it ice cream parties or get-togethers, these napkins have got your bases covered.

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Sur La Table, Linen Napkins (Set of 4) — $50.00

Instead of paper napkins, party planners recommend opting for linen ones, and these Sur La Table ones are perfect for setting the table. The packs comes with a set of four and is available in 13 fun and solid colors, from red to green to dark blue.

Colors: 13

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Target, Tick Stripe Cloth Napkins (Set of 4) — $10.00

For a subtle print, we’re gawking over these springy tick stripe cloth napkins from Target. Made of a cotton-linen blend, these napkins are absorbent, environment-friendly, and stylish. Fold and add on top of a plate to complete your dinner table.

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Fingercraft, Cloth Napkins (Set of 12) — $22.00

For something more heavy duty, these cotton and linen blend cloth napkins are great. They’re durable, machine-washable, and are great for absorbing crumbs and debris from your mouth during gatherings. The set comes as a pack of 12, which is great for medium-sized gatherings, baby showers, and more.

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Colorful glasses

Lastly, you can’t go wrong with an array of colorful tumblers. “Build a collection of rocks and tumbler glasses—vintage, handblown, colored, etc—and they will tell a great story when you serve cocktails,” says Courtney Zentner, co-founder of the Drifter. Plus, they double as water glasses and add an extra pop of color.

Nordic Peace, Colorful Vintage Glassware (Set of 6) — $68.00

Originally $80, now $68

This colorful set of glassware from Nordic Peace will have guests in awe. The slightly scalloped glassware is beautiful as it is functional, and can be used for cocktails, juice, soda, water, and whatever your guests desire.

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Blue Print, Murano Tumbler — $35.00

Zentner recommends this Blue Print tumbler. Each tumbler is handblown and doubles as a glass for cocktails or water. “We love the tomato-orange color,” she says.

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Comfit, Colored Wine Glasses — $59.00

For the wine enthusiasts, having a set of colorful wine glasses will be sure to entertain. Each glass has been handmade and crafted with only the best materials, and the set of six comes in different colors: green, orange, red, blue, purple, and pink. Made for red or white wine, these glasses will give you something to celebrate no matter if it’s a party, wedding, or holiday.

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It may sound a little weird or even gross, but urine can be a good fertilizer when properly prepared (more on that below—no, you can’t just pop a squat over your pots) because it contains some of the most-needed nutrients, like phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen, a byproduct of eating protein, that plants need to thrive. In fact, the United Nations finds that there’s enough phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen in the world’s wastewater (aka pee) to replace 13.4 percent of global fertilizer needs.

“You can do this at home and save on the cost that would have been used to buy fertilizers,” says professional gardener Miguel Palma, owner of the gardening advice site Jardin Tienda. Plant fertilizer can range in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, depending on the amount you need, so while money isn’t the only factor to consider here, it can certainly add up.

Plus, why pay for something you can get for free? The same nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium found in your urine are the three basic plant nutrients in most commonly used fertilizers, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Urine also contains trace amounts of zinc, which is another micronutrient found in some fertilizers (not all) that the EPA says plants also need to grow. So pee is a solid substitute for store-bought fertilizers with the added bonus of already possessing these nutrients in a soluble form that’s easy for plants to absorb.

You can urine as frequently as you would any other type of plant food (or fertilizer), which will vary depending on season and type of plant. So do your homework on your specific plant or speak with a specialist at your local nursery or plant shop who can offer you recommendations based on whether your plant is indoors or outdoors, potted or not, as well as what phase of its growth cycle it’s in, all factors to keep in mind.

What to know about peeing on your plants

Palma says that the first thing to note when intending to use human urine as fertilizer is that the urine is too concentrated. “It should be diluted before application,” he says. Otherwise, it can burn the leaves or kill off microorganisms that you need in the soil.

If you’re worried about the smell, it should dissipate pretty quickly, Palma says, or you can add some vinegar to the container while it’s empty to counteract any odors.

Another factor to consider, no matter what form of fertilizer you’re using, is the temperature of the soil, which should be at least 50º F for cold-season crops outside and 60–70º F for warm-season plants, to make sure the plants can properly absorb the nutrients, according to horticulturalists at Oregon State University. This is really only a factor to consider with outdoor plants, but still something to keep in mind.

Urine also has salts in it, and salt is not great for your plants. As long as you water well between pee applications, the salts will be diluted and you won’t have a problem. If you start to see scorched leaves, wilting, or a white crust on the soil, your salt levels are too high and you need to dilute the urine more and water with more pure water between fertilizations.

The drawbacks of using urine as plant fertilizer

Using your own urine as fertilizer sounds like a free, relatively simple way to ensure your plants get the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and it is. But there are a few drawbacks to using pee on plants you should also consider. For starters, urine is high in nitrogen (according to the journal Nutrition Research and Practice, the average concentration of nitrogen in human urine is around 0.14g/L), which can cause burning and other damage to plants if it is not used in the correct amounts. Additionally, its odor can repel beneficial insects like bees and butterflies if you’re using it outdoors, and it can attract animals like rats, which can cause additional problems.

There are ways to mitigate these issues; however, and depending on where you live and whether your plants are indoors or out, it may still be worth exploring using your own urine as fertilizer.

How to use pee on plants as a fertilizer

Step 1: Collect your urine

To do this, you’ll need a cup (if you’ve every given a urine sample at the doctor’s it’s the same idea). Pee into your cup and then transfer your urine to your watering can.

Step 2: Prepare your pee

As Palma mentioned, pee is too concentrated to pour directly onto plants, so you need to dilute it first. Dilute your pee with five to 10 parts water using the same cup your collected your pee in to help . The ratio doesn’t have to be exact, you can just eyeball it, Palma says.

Step 3: Sprinkle your soil

Just like during a normal watering session, you don’t want to douse your plant’s leaves with fertilizer; instead, aim to saturate the soil. Palma says it works best when applied to actively growing plants before they grow fruit or seeds.

Is using pee on your plants safe?

Just like with any fertilizer, when using pee as plant food, you want to be mindful to handle your urine carefully. Wash your hands after handling urine and wash your fruit and vegetables before eating them—two things you should already be doing anyway. If you’re fertilizing produce in your garden, the Rich Earth Institute, which researches the safety of using urine on crops for eating and is using donated human urine to make commercial fertilizer for sustainable farming, recommends waiting at least a month after fertilizing to eat anything you’ve grown (regardless of type of plant food). But this shouldn’t be an issue in practice since, as Palma points out, the time to fertilize your soil is well before harvest season.

Brooklinen, Mulberry Silk Pillowcase — $50.00

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Why I love the Brooklinen silk pillowcase

When I first unpacked my Brooklinen silk pillowcase and put it on my pillow, New York had hit the dog days of summer (and if you know, you know). And while the A/C in my apartment was pumping (I have the electrical bills to prove it!), I still found myself waking up in the middle of the night with a pool of sweat around my head. Now, for context, I sleep on my back, but something about the warm weather paired with the friction between my curly hair and the pillow led to a total meltdown (literally).

I immediately noticed a difference the first time I used the silk pillowcase. The pillowcase felt soft to the touch and my neck felt cool for the first time in days. That night, I slept through the night and didn’t wake up with pieces of my hair stuck to my face and neck. The next morning, I wasn’t covered in a sweaty sheen—it was a heat wave miracle.

Silk, in general, is a temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking material that makes for an excellent choice in the summer (and the winter, too, since it helps maintain an optimal temperature). While I’ve tried plenty of silk and satin pillowcases, none impressed me as much as Brooklinen’s.

My hair is much more manageable

Fast forward to the following spring, I still couldn’t sleep on anything but my Brooklinen pillowcase. I genuinely felt like my best self every morning after sleeping on it. While the jury’s still out on whether or not my skin benefitted (as I said, I’m a back sleeper anyway), my hair has seen quite an improvement in terms of manageability and overall appearance. My hair, for once, doesn’t look as wild (frizzy, tangled) and I’m noticing less breakage.

With cotton pillowcases, I typically find a few pieces of breakage upon waking up in the morning, but since switching to the Brooklinen pillowcase, nada. And, since there isn’t any friction causing the breakage, my hair is the healthiest and thickest it’s looked in years. While it’s not totally the pillow’s doing (I’ve been trying to take extra-good care of my hair with nourishing products), I believe it’s an integral part of the routine I’ve established for myself.

I asked Sharon Dorram, celebrity colorist and owner of Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger, why exactly that might be. In short: It’s due to the fact that silk pillowcases don’t cause tension. “The biggest benefit of sleeping with a silk pillowcase is that the fabric protects the texture of your hair; when we toss and turn at night, we roll around on our heads, which causes static and breakage,” she explains. “A silk pillowcase is more gentle on your hair and even extends the life of your hairstyle.” Here’s a more in-depth breakdown of why silk pillowcases are so beneficial (and a roundup of the best ones).

What makes it so special—and worth the price tag

While the cool-to-the-touch feel was the first thing I noticed about the Brooklinen Mulberry Silk pillowcase, it’s the quality and ease of care that really hooked me. The pillowcase is made from 100 percent pure mulberry silk and boasts a momme count of 22. For those that don’t know, momme is basically the metric used to measure silk; the higher the number, the softer the fabric will be. The average momme is usually 19, but it can go as high as 25.

In addition, the silk fabric is OKEO-TEX certified, meaning it’s been made without any harmful pesticides or chemicals. It also holds up nicely in the washing machine. When I’m in a rush, I wash mine on cold with a pH-neutral detergent, but when I’m feeling fancy, I hand wash it in my sink. Either way, it looks beautifully pearlescent and luxurious after it lies flat to dry. I’ve washed this pillowcase about 80 times so far, and it’s just as lovely as it was when I first unboxed it.

I’ve slept with my Brooklinen pillowcase for eight months now and I don’t want to sleep on anything else again. Since switching to this heavenly option, I’ve noticed a major positive impact on my sleep (especially during weather extremes) and the overall look of my hair.

The best pillows for neck pain, at a glance:

• Best overall: Purple Harmony Pillow, $161
• Best budget: Cushioncare Cervical Memory Foam Pillow, $46
• Best memory foam: Casper Foam Pillow, $71
• Best latex: Saatva Latex Pillow, $165
• Best cooling: Temur Pedic Tempur-Cloud Cooling Pro, $199
• Best for back sleepers: Tempur Pedic Tempur Cloud Pro, $159
• Best for side sleepers: Bed Boss, Dreamer Plus Pillow, $89
• Best for stomach sleepers: Casper Down Pillow, $111
• Best for severe pain: Luxome Layr Adjustable Pillow, $130

What to look for in a pillow for neck pain

Chiropractors and sleep experts agree that the first quality to look for in a pillow for neck pain is support. That’s because “if the neck isn’t supported well, the muscles can tense up,” resulting in a stiff neck or soreness, and “impact the ability to fall asleep or the quality of sleep,” says Rita Roy, MD, MS, CEO of the National Spine Health Foundation. You can find support in materials like memory foam and down feathers, but it all comes down to personal preference and whether your cervical spine is supported.

While it can be tempting to stack your pillows for more oomph or use a thinner pillow, chiropractors say this isn’t the greatest idea. “A pillow that is too high, low, or stiff can cause strain on the neck muscles and aggravate existing neck pain or neck conditions,” Matthew Cavanaugh, DC, a chiropractor based in Louisiana, tells Well+Good. “It’s best to use a soft pillow that supports the natural curve of the cervical spine, such as a cervical pillow or memory foam.”

Finding the perfect pillow may take a few tries, so it may be helpful to test a few before you commit. Most brands offer free trials and returns, which is something you’ll want to take note of, especially if you’re investing in a pricier pillow.

Is it better to have a firm or soft pillow for neck pain?

As we mentioned before, Cavanaugh says that it’s generally better to stick to the softer side of things when it comes to choosing a pillow. Not only are soft pillows more flexible, they are less likely to cause strain on the neck and shoulder muscles. “They also provide more cushioning around sensitive areas in the neck and upper back,” he adds. Softer pillows—which can allow your head to rest in a comfortable position—can also be ideal if you suffer with chronic or frequent neck pain.

Shopping for pillows can be overwhelming—there are just so many options. Pillows come in so many different materials, fills, firmness, shapes, and sizes, but it shouldn’t be a difficult process to choose one. With this in mind, we tapped sleep experts and a chiropractor for guidance on the best pillows for neck pain. Read on to learn their recommendations.

Best overall

Purple, Harmony Pillow — $179.00

As the best overall pick, Purple’s Harmony Pillow ticks a ton of boxes. Engineered with a blend of latex and polymer, this pillow is extremely durable and never caves downward. “The honeycomb design cradles your neck while also providing the perfect amount of support,” says Cavanaugh. The honeycomb structure is also great for hot sleepers, venting hot air and keeping sleepers cool for the duration of the night (no more sweat puddles). Available in low, medium, and tall, this pillow really cradles to every type of sleeper, no matter if you like to snooze on your stomach, back, or side.

Sizes: 2

Height: 3

Material: latex and polymer

Pros:

• Latex and polymer blend
• Durable
• Doesn’t lose shape
• Cooling
• Available in three heights

Cons:

• Expensive

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Best budget

Cushioncare, Cervical Memory Foam Pillow — $46.00

Pillows for neck pain aren’t cheap, so if you’re on a budget, Cavanaugh suggests going with Cushioncare. For the price, this cervical memory foam pillow rivals more expensive options. It’s made of dense memory foam, has a contoured neck dip for added support, and features a temperature-reactive foam that responds to body heat, keeping you cool all night long. “If you’re looking for an affordable pillow, the Cushioncare Memory Foam Pillow is a great option,” Cavanaugh says. For under $50, you can’t beat it!

Sizes: one size

Material: memory foam

Pros:

• Affordable
• Features a neck notch feature for extra neck-cradling
• Memory foam

Cons:

• May not be as cooling for some

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Best memory foam

Casper, Foam Pillow — $74.00

Originally $89, now $71

Memory foam is touted as a supportive material, which is why chiropractors rave all about it, and Casper’s pillow is chiropractor-approved. “It is made from a combination of airy and supportive foam that contours to your body for superior comfort and support,” explains Cavanaugh. It’s not only supportive, but it’s also extremely soft. Just let your head sink in.

What sets this memory foam apart is that the foam used is perforated, pushing heat away to keep you nice and cool at night. Just like all of Casper’s products, you’ll get a 30-night trial to test the waters. So, what are you waiting for? Sweet dreams await!

Sizes: 2

Material: memory foam

Pros:

• Memory foam
• Cooling
• 30-night trial

Cons:

• May be too squishy for some

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Best latex

Saatva, Latex Pillow — $165.00

If you want a pillow that doesn’t skimp on quality, look no further than Saatva’s Latex Pillow. “It’s made from 100% natural Talalay latex, which is designed to be both plush and supportive,” says Cavanaugh. Additionally, “it provides optimal head, neck, and shoulder support that helps keep your spine in a neutral alignment while you sleep.” The inner pillow is lined with microfibers for added plushness, and it’s encased in a cotton pillow cover that’s easy to clean via a washing machine. Supportive, comfortable, and luxe—it’s like you’re sleeping in a five-star hotel.

Sizes: 2

Material: latex

Pros:

• 100 percent latex
• Supportive
• Machine washable cover

Cons:

• Expensive

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Best cooling

Tempur Pedic, Tempur Cloud Cooling Pro Pillow — $199.00

It’s no fun to find yourself waking up in a pool of your own sweat. That’s why Tempur Pedic’s Cloud Cooling Pillow is here to save you from overheating at night. Cavanaugh says it’s a great cooling pillow and for good reason: The pillow is infused with gel that immediately absorbs heat and keeps the pillow cool, so you can rest easy. While the cooling elements do their thing, the memory foam aligns your spine and head to be in proportion, so no more waking up with a stiff neck. It really offers the best of both worlds. Available in two heights, low and high, there won’t be any pain in sight.

Sizes: 2

Height: 2

Material: memory foam

Pros:

• Infused with cooling gel
• Supportive
• Available in two heights

Cons:

• Expensive

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Best for back sleepers

Tempur Pedic, Tempur Cloud Pro Pillow — $159.00

Cloud status is immediately granted with Tempur Pedic’s Cloud Pro Pillow. This fluffy pillow is ideal for all sleepers, but especially back sleepers. The pillow is infused with three layers of memory foam, offering support and comfort through every stage of sleep. “It features Tempurpedic material that relieves pressure points and keeps your spine properly aligned while also allowing you to select the height of the pillow, which helps with proper sleep postures,” says Cavanaugh.

Tossing and turning is also not a problem, thanks to its responsive foam material. Also nice, the pro features a removable and machine washable cover, making cleaning easy. However, when it comes to drying, air dry is best to preserve the material. As the name implies, it’s like you’re sleeping in the clouds.

Sizes: 2

Height: 3

Material: memory foam

 

Pros:

• Three layers of memory foam
• Supportive
• Machine washable cover
• Available in three heights

Cons:

• Expensive
• Air dry only

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Best pillow for side sleepers

Bedboss, Dreamer Plus Pillow — $89.00

A pillow that Cavanaugh swears by is the Bedboss Dreamer Plus Pillow. “This is the pillow I use,” he says. “It has an ultra soft unique shoulder notch for side sleepers.” The high-density memory foam is supportive and comfortable to sleep on. What’s more, the pillow is perforated, and the cover is made of bamboo—which is a natural heat repellent, rendering the pillow breathable (hooray for hot sleepers). One thing to note: the pillow is available in different levels of firmness for those who want something more solid. Once you lay your head, it’s sweet dreams.

Sizes: queen

Material: memory foam

Pros:

• Memory foam
• Shoulder notch for side sleepers
• Breathable cover

Cons:

• Only available in one size

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Best for stomach sleepers

Casper, Down Pillow — $111.00

Originally $139, now $111

While sleeping on your stomach isn’t usually recommended, if you must, you should find a good pillow. Soft pillows can offer support at night, and this one is Casper’s poofiest pillow yet (it’s so fluffy). Recommended by Cavanaugh, this one is made from ethically-sourced down—which gives the pillow its marshmallow look and feel. Not only that, the down is supportive, cradling your head and neck and leveling both out to not put a strain on your neck. To clean, simply throw it in your washer. Still unsure? Casper offers a 30-night trial, so you can put it to the test risk-free. Let the Zzz begin!

Sizes: 2

Material: down feather

Pros:

• Down-fill
• Fluffy
• 30-night trial

Cons:

• Expensive

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Best for severe pain

Luxome, Layr Customizable Pillow — $130.00

For people battling severe neck pain, Cavanaugh says you can’t go wrong with Luxome’s Layr Customizable Pillow. “This pillow is completely customizable and is an excellent choice if you have neck pain because you can use the inserts to create the perfect height and firmness to perfectly support your neck and head,” says Cavanaugh. In total, the pillow has two inserts: a 1-inch and 2-inch memory foam pieces infused with cooling gel, so you can customize the height to your head and neck. As if the features couldn’t get any better: The pillow has a built-in cooling layer that’s made from bamboo (this is great for sweaty sleepers). While on the pricier side, all of these features make it worth the money.

Editor’s note: If you’re experiencing severe, or debilitating neck or back pain (or stiffness), we recommend seeing your doctor, chiropractor, or health care specialist to rule out any other serious health conditions.

Sizes: 2

Material: down and memory foam

Pros:

• Cooling
• Adjustable
• Machine-washable

Cons:

• Expensive

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A pandemic-born interest in hiking is not uncommon. The hiking industry saw a major boom in participation experience hikers and beginners alike during the summer of 2020, with a 79 percent increase of trail use, according to American Trails. Today, the United States is home to 57.8 million active hikers. The physical and mental health benefits of hiking coupled with the sight-seeing opportunities have made hiking one of America’s favorite pastimes in 2023.

Trail hiking can be daunting for first-timers. If you’d like to join in on the fun, read on to learn some of George’s best hiking tips for beginners, including how to stay safe, what supplies you’ll need, and how to get the most out of your first hike.

How To Find Hiking Trails for Beginners

You might be eager to try an advanced, picturesque hike on your first go, but George recommends sticking to trails shorter than two miles with less than 200 feet of elevation gain.

George recommends using AllTrails, a smartphone app that helps you find beginner-friendly hiking, biking, and running trails in your area. This app allows you to sort by difficulty level and apply filters to find pet-friendly and wheelchair-accessible trails. Each trail listing includes the length and elevation gain of the trail as well as photos and first-hand reviews from fellow hikers.

Hiking for Beginners: Safety 101

1. Check the weather

It might seem like an obvious first step, but always look at the day’s weather predictions before hitting the trail. Weather radars apps like MyRadar can tell you if a storm cell is approaching, what the wind forecast is, and what the current air quality is like. Once you have an idea of what the weather will look like, dress and pack accordingly.

2. Tell a trusted friend where you’ll be

Never go on a hiking trip without telling at least one close friend or family member where you’ll be going. If you somehow become injured or lost and can’t call for help, your person on the outside can get help for you. Tell them where you’ll be hiking, what trail you’ll be taking, who you’re going with, and what time you expect to be done, says George. Make a plan to call or text them at a specific agreed-upon time once you’re back at the trailhead.

3. Research wildlife in the area

Every region has its own unique ecosystem of plants and animals. Research the flora and fauna in your area ahead of time, and make note of potentially dangerous animals and plants that are native to the area. Bear spray (and even pepper spray) can help ward off an aggressive animal, while loud whistles and clip-on bells can alert local wildlife of your presence. Depending on the season and area, snake bite and bee sting kits and poison ivy scrubs can be an invaluable addition to your pack.

10 Essential Hiking Supplies for Beginners

The American Hiking Society recommends bringing along the “10 Essentials” of hiking. Hiking authorities like REI and Leave No Trace echo the importance of these items for your safety (and peace of mind) on hikes short and long. These essentials are the bare minimum recommended for survival in an emergency scenario; even if your hike is less than a few miles, unexpected circumstances can arise on the trail.

“You probably won’t need all of these things, especially if it’s a super easy beginner hike,” says George, “but this is what every resource recommends just in case.”

1. Navigation

Aside from your phone, be sure to slip a map, compass, or GPS locator into your backpack for safekeeping. George adds that a downloaded or printed version of your trail from a hiking trail app like AllTrails can be helpful in case you lose cell service.

Sportneer Military Lensatic Sighting Compass — $18.00

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Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator — $101.00

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2. Headlamp

In the event your sunset hike takes a little longer than anticipated, a headlamp can provide light without draining your phone’s battery. As with all electronics you plan to pack, be sure to include extra batteries and/or charge it until it has a full battery.

Curtsod Rechargeable Headlamp, 2-Pack — $20.00

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Vekkia Ultra Bright LED Headlamp — $12.00

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3. Sun protection

Sunscreen, SPF lip balm, sunglasses, hats, and sun-blocking clothing can protect you from the sun. Aside from a potentially nasty sunburn, spending an extended amount of time in direct sunlight can make you tired and dehydrated.

Supergoop! PLAY SPF 50 Antioxidant Body Mist — $21.00

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Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 — $38.00

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Banana Boat Sport Ultra Lip Balm Sunscreen SPF 50 — $6.00

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4. First aid

A first aid kit is an absolute must for hiking, regardless of experience level. Anything can happen on the trail, so keep your kit stocked at all times.

Protect Life First Aid Kit — $15.00

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5. Knife

A hiking knife is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment you could bring on the trail. On a typical hike, a knife can help you cut through stubborn food packages, spread condiments, and cut through brambles that get caught on your clothing. In an emergency, a knife can help you cut bandages for a wound, remove deep splinters, and cut branches for firewood.

6. Fire

In case of an emergency, throw a lighter or firestarter into your pack before departing. Starting a fire in the wilderness without any equipment is incredibly difficult to do. Lighters take up very little space, but can provide a world of security.

Lafizz 2-Pack Waterproof Torch Lighter — $17.00

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7. Shelter

For longer hikes, consider throwing in a compact emergency tent in case things go south. A lack of shelter could mean life or death in severe weather.

8. Extra food

Hiking takes a lot of energy, so be sure to throw in an extra snack or two before hitting the trail. Dried fruit, trail mix, granola bars, protein shakes, and jerky are all great mess-free snack options that provide an extra boost of fuel.

9. Extra water

Always bring more water than you think you’ll need. Aside from keeping hydrated, an extra bottle of water could help a thirsty hiker who forgot to pack their own.

10. Extra clothes

George recommends dressing according to the weather and investing in lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that can breathe while you sweat. “The main thing when hiking is you want to avoid cotton,” says George. “Cotton takes so long to dry, you’ll want something like polyester, nylon, or wool.”

An extra change of underwear or socks and extra layers can make for a more comfortable hiking experience. And packing a light rain jacket, even if the weather doesn’t call for rain, is a smart move. “I always have one in my backpack,” says George.

Other Hiking Gear You Might Need

Beginner hiking boots

Most hiking trails have uneven terrain and some form of elevation gain, making athletic sneakers a risky footwear choice. Great hiking boots are durable, comfortable, supportive, and are built to withstand harsh weather conditions.

George’s current hiking boot is the Merrell Moab 3, which is made from partially recycled fabrics and has a high level of shock absorption to help reduce torque.

“They’re super comfortable and they don’t have a breaking in period,” says George. “They’re durable, waterproof, and have great ankle support.”

Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoes — $110.00

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A cooling towel

Keeping a bandana, scarf, or cooling towel on hand can offer relief during warm weather hikes. Along with wearing proper clothing and staying hydrated, a wet towel can help ward off heat exhaustion and keep you comfortable mile after mile. This 4-pack of microfiber towels from Sukeen can stay chilled for up to three hours and comes with individual carrying cases that can clip onto your hiking bag.

Sukeen Cooling Towels, 4-Pack — $18.00

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A quality water bottle

A sturdy, air-tight, reusable water bottle is crucial for hikes. This 2.2. gallon jug from H2O Capsule comes with a dust-proof straw cover to keep dirt away, a neoprene sleeve that can hold your phone, cards, and keys, and an adjustable shoulder strap for easy hauling.

H2O Capsule 2.2L Half Gallon Water Bottle — $30.00

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A roomy backpack

Hiking backpacks have plenty of storage options to keep your snacks, first aid equipment, and extra clothes separate from each other. This bag from Venture Pal comes with a waterproof compartment to store wet clothes, two mesh water bottle sleeves, and a chest clip to help distribute weight evenly, preventing sore shoulders.

Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Travel Hiking Backpack — $29.00

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Hiking Trail Etiquette Dos and Don’ts for Beginners

DON’T play loud music

Resist the urge to blast music from your phone or portable speaker, especially on popular trails. This can ruin the experience for other hikers who are trying to reconnect with nature.

“I prefer to hear the wind and the water and the birds chirping,” says George, “and that’s interrupted when I hear someone’s music going on in the background. I think it’s fine if you’re in the backcountry, but for the most part, keep your music on a low volume.”

DO allow faster hikers to pass you

As a courtesy to other hikers, stay to the right side of the trail when you can; this allows runners and speed hikers to go around you on your left. If you need to take a breather, try to move as close to the right edge of the trail as possible before resting.

Uphill hikers have the right of way, says George, so step to the side if you encounter people hiking up while you’re hiking down.

DON’T bring unleashed dogs

Many people bring their dogs along on hikes. They’re a great form of exercise for Fido and offer sensory stimulation they might not otherwise get at the neighborhood dog park.

Before bringing your dog along, make sure they’re well-behaved around adults, children, and other dogs. Bringing an aggressive or untrained dog on a public trail can be a recipe for disaster. Always keep your dog leashed and be sure to pack a portable water bowl for mid-hike breaks. Just as you would pick up your dog’s poo while walking around your block, pick up your dog’s poo along the trail, too.

DO leave the trail better than you found it

Take all of your trash with you, pick up any litter you come across, and do your part to maintain the trails.

“Always abide by the ‘leave no trace’ principles—pack out what you pack in,” says George.

DON’T take shortcuts

During your hike, you might come across a man-made shortcut through the brush that branches off of the main trail. George says to avoid these shortcuts for two reasons.

First, shortcuts can be dangerous. Following uncharted trails can make it more difficult for rescue teams to locate you in case of an emergency, and you might not know where the shortcut leads to, or how long it is.

Second, shortcuts like these aren’t eco-friendly, according to George. These trails damage the environment’s natural foliage and can interfere with wildlife in the area.

DO remember to document your journey

George documents her hikes on Instagram in an effort to diversify outdoor spaces and encourage people of color to embrace the outdoors. Over on her TikTok, George shares her favorite hiking tips for beginners, including which hiking boots are worth the investment and how to properly layer cold weather gear.

As someone who has spent the majority of my decade-long career working for ethical and eco-friendly businesses, I’ve slowly made the switch over to brands and products that align with those values when possible. When it was time to retire my traditional spring mattress, I knew an eco-friendly model was next up on the list of sustainable swaps. My first choice? Earthfoam, a comfy, springy mattress that’s so green, it grows on trees.

No, Earthfoam doesn’t actually have an orchard of mattress-sprouting trees (although that would be cool). Rather, Earthfoam mattresses are made from the sap of Sri Lankan rubber trees, aka, natural latex, to give them their signature bounce. In a saturated, often misunderstood category,  the eco-friendly sleep brand holds its products to serious sustainable standards, ensuring sleepers like me get a healthy, restorative snooze night after night.

And it has. After two months of sleeping on Earthfoam’s mattress, I can honestly say it’s been a serious upgrade from my old mattress on just about every front, keeping me comfortable and supported as I navigate my first trimester. Keep reading for my full review, below.

Earthfoam, Mattress (Full) — $899.00

Available sizes: Twin-California King in either Medium or Firm.

Prices vary on mattress size. 

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The Earthfoam mattress: My full review

How it ships

While DTC mattress brands have been around for some time, this was my first foray into this category of online shopping. My first thought was, “How in the world is this going to get to me?” And once it arrived a mere few days later, my second question was, “How do I open this thing?”

After not finding anything online, I reached out to Earthfoam’s customer service team who promptly answered my question, instructing me to use the help of a second person to move the box into the bedroom, open the box, then cut away the compression wrapper (which is paper, btw) that was keeping the large, queen-sized mattress in a tight roll. I enlisted the help of my co-tester, my husband, and once getting over the fear that it might pop open like a can of crescent rolls (it wasn’t nearly as dramatic as we anticipated), it promptly unrolled and sprung to full thickness. As the customer service team had ensured, we were able to sleep on the mattress immediately after. I will note that there was a slight scent upon opening it up that we were told could happen due to the natural rubber. But it quickly dissipated and was not bothersome, even for my pregnancy-sensitive nose.

While I’ve only been testing it for about two months, I appreciate that Earthfoam offers a 100-night sleep trial for mattresses and toppers and a 10-year warranty for mattresses, in addition to free shipping to the contiguous United States and no-questions-asked free returns. (Note: The brand does ship to Hawaii, Alaska and outside the U.S., but the customer is responsible for all shipping costs including duties and taxes as applicable.)

How it feels

Earthfoam has two options of firmness to choose from: Medium and Firm. My husband and I opted for the “Medium” and find it to be firmer than our “medium” firm bed we had previously. If you are someone who definitely likes your mattress to feel like you are sleeping on a cloud, this mattress may not be your pick (although your doctor may suggest otherwise.)

Overall, my husband and I both feel that despite it being firmer than we were used to, it is super supportive, especially our lower backs, spines, and hips (which has become more important as we’ve aged over the years and as I navigate pregnancy).

How it sleeps

When first learning about the Earthfoam mattress, my husband was skeptical since he had heard that foam mattresses run hot, and he was concerned that it would not be cool enough for him. But, similar to clothing made of natural fibers versus synthetics, the mattress does a great job at adjusting to our body temperatures and variant Southern California weather.

Each mattress features five plush layers, two of which (the base and first layer) are made from natural latex. The third is a layer of organic wool batting to ensure thermoregulation, while also serving as natural fire retardant. On top of that is organic cotton batting that holds everything together and protects it from wear-and-tear. And on top of that, is an organic cotton face that’s cool to the touch and keeps my husbands night sweats at bay.

Sustainability

From a sustainability perspective, Earthfoam ticks off most boxes. The materials alone are impressive, as is the supply-chain, which includes Fair-Trade sourcing from Sri Lanka, ethical sourcing from New Zealand, and a fair labor at a family-run factory in Illinois. Each of these claims is backed with six different third-party certifications, including the Fair For Life fair trade certification, and the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification. As mentioned, mattresses and toppers are compression wrapped in paper, while the pillows are shipped in biodegradable bags. And the products last long, a key part of the sustainability equation. According to the brand, natural foam rubber is famous for its durability and the mattresses are tested to last up to 3x longer than most mattresses, ensuring your investing in a product that’s built to last and stay out of landfills.

Cost

If you’ve gotten this far, you are likely thinking, “Okay, but how much does this cost?” If you’ve bought a mattress before, you may have been sticker-shocked like myself the first time I was required to make this adult purchase. Add on the words “organic” and “fair-trade” and the suspense may be building.

That said, when comparing across other popular direct-to-consumer mattress brands, I find Earthfoam’s prices to be comparable. The mattresses come in the sizes Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King and range from $699 – $1,499 depending on the size you buy. If you’re not ready to buy a full mattress but are curious, the brand also offers a mattress topper ($299-$399) in various sizes and a pillow ($99), which put much less of a dent in your bank account.

Tl;Dr

I’ll sum up my review best in the words of my husband. On the morning after our first night with our Earthfoam Organic mattress, I woke up to him saying groggily, “This mattress is comfortable.” Well folks, there you have it. The skeptical, partner who sleeps hot and the pregnant, sustainability-loving, heavy-sleeper partner both agree that this mattress is a definite win for our bedroom. Here’s hoping our soon-to-be infant can give us the courtesy of a goodnight’s rest like our Earthfoam mattress has.

From the pillows to the duvet cover, my bed is dressed head-to-toe in Magic Linen’s stunning natural textiles. And, while I love everything, it’s the sheets that have been a total game-changer for me—keep scrolling to hear out the “why.”

Magic Linen, Linen Sheet Set (4-Piece), starting at $238

Sizes: Twin-California King

Colors: 21

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These are the ultimate warm weather sheets

When I first gave my bed its Magic Linen makeover, Los Angeles was experiencing one of its many middle-of-summer heat waves (I’m talking 100-degree+ heat), where it gets so hot that the thought of any covers (even thin sheets) makes you flinch. I’m typically a deep sleeper, however, my sleep quality totally plummets during the summer as I need to be buried under covers to fall and stay asleep, and that is simply not possible when it’s still 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the middle of the night. Enter: The Magic Linen Sheet Set.

Upon stretching the fitted sheet over my Avocado Green mattress and draping the flat sheet on top, I immediately noticed a difference in temperature when I slid into bed. Normally, I would kick the covers off as soon as my head hits the pillow, but this felt different—it was cozy yet cool, and I felt like I could pull the covers up to my neck without breaking a sweat. That night, I slept fully and deeply through the entire night without waking up to push the covers down, take off a layer of clothing, or go sleep on the couch (something I do often when I get too hot in my bed).

Linen, in general, is naturally temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking, making it an excellent choice for the summer (but also great for the winter, since you can easily layer). And, while I have tried other linen sheets before, the Magic Linen set really upped the ante while also keeping a luxe soft-to-the-touch feel that got better and better with every wash.

But they’re also superb in the winter, too

By the time winter rolled around (which is very late in Los Angeles—usually January to March are our coldest months), I was still completely obsessed with my sheets and wondered how they might perform against low temperatures. I am typically someone who changes to flannel bedding during the chilly season and, to be completely honest, I wasn’t holding my breath, since linen is known for being a warm-weather fabric (and how could it possibly be as amazing as flannel?!). But, much to my surprise, the sheets (and duvet cover) kept me super warm and comfortable because of their temperature-regulating properties, which give you that “just right” feel and never get too cool or too warm, which is ideal for sleep quality.

What makes them so special—and worth that price tag

While temperature regulation was the first thing I noticed about the Magic Linen sheets, it was actually their quality that stood out to me the most (and continues to impress). The sheets are made from OEKO-TEX certified 100 percent flax with a 190 gr/m2 weight and are stonewashed so they feel so soft and not stiff, unlike other linen fabrics. They also hold up nicely in the washing machine. I barely follow the recommended care instructions—instead, I throw them in the wash on warm and then dry them on medium heat—and have not had any issues with washing. The brand does recommend not drying them all the way and I agree that it is the best way to care for them because they tend to get super wrinkly when twisted and tangled together in the dryer. I wait for mine to get around 95 percent dry and then hang them to soften the wrinkles. I’ve washed my sheets around 50 times so far, and they are still just as durable as they were when I unboxed them, but 10 times softer.

I’ve slept between Magic Linen sheets for almost a year now and can’t imagine my sleep without them. I am lucky to be a deep sleeper and never thought sheets could make that much of a difference in my quality of sleep. However, since switching to the luxe linen bedding, I have noticed a major difference in my sleep, especially when extreme weather hits (and we’ve certainly experienced a lot of that in Los Angeles over the last year).

The best wedge pillows, at a glance:

• Best overall: Brentwood Home Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow, $54
• Best budget: Mainstay Foam Bed Wedge Pillow, $25
• Best for side sleepers: Kölbs Store Side Wedge Pillow, $37
• Best cooling: Helix Wedge Pillow, $79
• Best for acid reflux: Medslant Wedge Pillow, $98
• Best high-rise pillow: Intevision, Foam Bed Wedge Pillow, $66
• Best for pregnancy: Hiccapop, Pregnancy Wedge Pillow, $27
• Best for circulation: Cushy Form Wedge Pillows, $32

How do wedge pillows work

“Wedge pillows feature a gentle slope to create a slight incline, supporting and elevating your neck and head,” says Shelby Harris, PsyD, the director of sleep health at Sleepopolis. By elevating the head and upper back, this “reduces pressure from the upper airways, preventing them from collapsing and alleviating snoring,” explains Po-Chang Hsu, MD, MS, a medical content expert at Sleeping Ocean based in Boston, Massachusetts. This elevation also works wonders on acid reflux by keeping the sleeper elevated to prevent acid from getting into the esophagus, the main cause of acid reflux, Dr. Hsu adds. And for those with nasal congestion, Dr. Hsu says that “sleeping elevated will allow gravity to move the mucus down, preventing it from building up in one’s nose.”

What to look for in a wedge pillow

Just like a quality mattress, pillow, and bed sheets—choosing a wedge pillow is based on your personal preference. But experts want you to keep a few things in mind. One factor to consider is the incline of the pillow. According to Dr. Hsu, wedge pillows fall between 30 and 45 degrees. “A lower incline is best suited for people who want to use their wedge pillow under the knees and legs (for instance, to reduce pressure from the hips and lower back),” says Dr. Hsu. On the other hand, a higher incline is best suited for people with sleep apnea, acid reflux, or nasal congestion because it elevates the head and upper back to prevent pressure and mucus buildup.

Dr. Hsu also says that material is important. Common materials include memory foam; however, it tends to accumulate heat unless it’s infused with gel particles. “Latex, albeit more expensive, can maintain a neutral temperature throughout the night” and are more durable, says Dr. Hsu. The last thing to check for: firmness. Dr. Hsu recommends a medium, medium-firm, or firm wedge pillow in order to have sturdy support throughout the night. He says that medium-firm models are best suited for side sleepers and those who want deeper pressure relieve and firm pillows are recommended for back sleepers.

Below, you’ll find sleep doctor-approved wedge pillows of every height, budget, and material that will kick congestion, snoring, and acid reflux to the curb. Sleep dreams!

Brentwood Home, Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow — $54.00

Available: 7-, 10-, and 12- inches

For a versatile wedge pillow that hits two birds with one stone, count on Brentwood Home’s Zuma Foam Wedge Pillow. “This model uses adaptive foam that molds to the body, making the pressure redistribute evenly without giving up on proper support,” says Dr. Hsu. Available in three different sizes, 7-, 10-, and 12- inches, this pillow is extremely versatile and can be used to alleviate snoring, acid reflux, poor circulation, and back or neck problems. Use it against your bed to sit up or lay it horizontally to get a good night’s snooze.

If you’re not vibing with the Zuma, you’ll get a 30-day trial and a full refund. What’s also great? It comes with a removable, machine-washable cover that makes cleaning up a breeze.  The comfort it provides, versatility, and adaptive foam makes this pillow the best overall choice.

Measurements: 24″ x 24″ x 7″ inches

Pros:

• Made of adaptive foam
• Comes with machine-washable cover
• Ideal for neck and shoulder pain, acid reflux, snoring, and poor circulation
• 30-day trial

Cons:

• Expensive

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Mainstay, Foam Bed Wedge Pillow — $25.00

Available: one size

For the price, Mainstay’s Foam Bed Wedge Pillow gets the job done. Made of a blend of polyester and thick foam, this wedge pillow is ergonomically shaped and lifts your neck and back, providing snoring, acid reflux, and congestion relief. Even Dr. Hsu agrees: “This is one of the most affordable wedge pillows on the market that doesn’t sacrifice quality for an attractive price tag.”

The pillow comes with a zippered and soft cover that’s machine-washable and easy to clean. Use it as an incline while you sleep or to align or neck and bag during sleepy time.

Measurements: 24.5″ x 22″ x 8″ inches

Pros:

• Affordable
• Comes with machine-washable cover
• Made of foam

Cons:

• No warranty

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Kölbs Store, Side Wedge Pillow — $37.00

Available: one size

The 30-degree incline of Kölbs’ Side Wedge Pillow is contoured to support side sleepers. While smaller than most of the pillows of this list, the medical-grade memory foam pillow slightly slants the body to an ergonomic position to prevent back and side pain. “This model is ideal for side sleepers thanks to its gentle and medium-firm feel,” says Dr. Hsu. “It works especially well when placed behind the hips for extra support when lying on one side.” Another notable feature is the machine washable cover, making cleaning easy breezy.

Measurements: 12.17″ x 6.1″ x 5.63″ inches

Pros:

• Affordable
• Comes with machine-washable cover
• 30-degree incline
• Made of medical-grade memory foam

Cons:

• Expensive

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Helix, Wedge Pillow — $79.00

Available: one size

Hot and sweaty sleepers will appreciate Helix’s Wedge Pillow. The cooling gel memory foam not only contours to the curves, but vents hot air (bye bye, night sweats). The wedge pillows are elevated and are best suited for side or back sleepers with breathing issues, pain, and other sleep-related issues. Try it out for 100 nights and for any issues, you’ll have a one-year warranty.

Measurements: 24″ x 24″ x 10″ inches

Pros:

• Made of cooling memory foam
• 100-night trial
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• Expensive

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Medslant, Wedge Pillow — $98.00

Available: one size

“This wedge pillow was created specifically for those who experience acid reflux,” says Dr. Harris. Featuring a 7″ rise, it prevents acid from reaching the esophagus and relieving snoring and back pain. What’s nice about the pillow is that it is made of hypo-allergenic foam, so it’s unlikely to irritate skin and comes with a removable cover to keep things clean. Included is a carrying case, and the pillow case can be easily folded so traveling with it isn’t a problem.

Measurements: 32″ x 24″ x 7″ inches

Pros:

• Comes with a carrying case
• Hypoallergenic foam
• Ideal for acid reflux
• Removable case

Cons:

• Expensive

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Intevision, Foam Bed Wedge Pillow — $66.00

Available: one size

If you need a wedge pillow with a little more height, Intevision’s Foam Bed Wedge Pillow is a great option. “This 12-inch wedge pillow has a soft side and a firm side, and a perforated lining to allow maximum breathability,” which is ideal for people experiencing acid reflux or snoring, explains Dr. Harris. Even more, it’s embedded with cooling gel memory foam to offer relief to the sweatiest of sleepers. Featuring a machine-washable cover, this cover is easy to clean and comes with a silky bamboo cover that’s comfy to sleep on. Sleeping on the Intevision brings only sweet dreams.

Measurements: 25″ x 24″ x 12″ inches

Pros:

• Comes with machine-washable cover
• Made of cooling memory foam
• High-rise pillow

Cons:

• Expensive

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Hiccapop, Pregnancy Wedge Pillow — $27.00

Available: one size

This pillow comes recommended by Dr. Harris, and is ideal for pregnant people because of its easily portable wedge. It “has a soft and a firm side, and a perforated lining to allow maximum breathability,” she adds. The 2-sided design can accommodate people during all phases of pregnancy and has purported benefits of reducing swelling, relieving nerve pain, and relieving back pain. Plus, it’s compact, making it a travel-friendly companion.

Measurements: 15″ x 13.25″ x 4.5″ inches

Pros:

• Affordable
• Suited for all trimesters
• Portable

Cons:

• May not be cushioned enough for some

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Cushy Foam, Wedge Pillow — $32.00

Available: one size

If you’re battling poor circulation, look no further than Cushy’s Foam Wedge Pillow. “This wedge pillow is the perfect choice to elevate legs and feet,” says Dr. Harris. Engineered with soft memory foam, the pillow is gentle on the legs while simultaneously offering a helping ledge to promote circulation. What’s more, it comes with a washable cover that’s both breathable and soft. Sweaty legs are no longer a thing.

Measurements: 24″ x 21″ x 8″ inches

Pros:

• Made of soft memory foam
• Comes with machine-washable cover
• Elevates legs for circulation

Cons:

• May be too big for some

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Don’t believe us? It’s actually science: According to multiple studies, strong, pleasant scents can help make you feel happier and calmer, thanks to the connection between your olfactory bulb (the part of your brain that processes smell) and the amygdala (the part of your brain associated with experiencing emotions). And who doesn’t feel happy and calm on vacation?

To achieve all the chill-but-lavish vibes—without booking a vacation, or even leaving your house—opt for noticeably refreshing scents that can turn your own home into a retreat, like the new Air Wick^® Vibrant fragrances. The luxurious home scents are infused with natural essential oils (psst: that’s 2x more natural essential oils vs. regular Air Wick^® scented oils) and can last up to 60 days*—so you can get the mental perks of vacationing without using all your PTO.

Below, we’re matching each scent with a different room so you can set the mood in your favorite space, or try them all and send your senses on a multi-destination trip just by wandering through your house.

Keep scrolling for the luxurious home scents that will elevate every room in your home.

*on low setting

“Over time, any mattress can lose its shape and begin to sag, creating dips and lumps—and an uncomfortable mattress can interfere with your ability to get a good night’s sleep,” says Bridget Chapman, certified sleep coach at Sleepopolis. Indeed, even the best bed-in-the-box mattresses or traditional varieties degrade in quality as the years wear on.

When and how often should you replace your mattress?

The average lifespan of a mattress is seven to 10 years, and manufacturers will typically recommend replacing it within this time period. For Chapman and Rebecca Fair, certified sleep coach at Mattress Nerd, the answer isn’t so straightforward.

Various factors influence the longevity of a mattress, the first of which is mattress type. Not all mattresses are created equal, and some options may last longer than others. Among the most popular mattress types available, Fair and Chapman agree that those made from latex are the longest-lasting variety. Another factor that may affect mattress lifespan is a person’s sleep position. According to Chapman: “When you sleep in the same position and in the same spot on your mattress every night, your mattress is more prone to sag and wear prematurely from the constant pressure of your body.” Also, Fair adds that if a person has a larger build or they share a bed with a partner, it can accelerate a mattress’s decline.

All that is to say, there is no one answer to the question of how often or when to replace a mattress because mattresses, bodies, and sleeping habits are all different. However, if you aren’t sleeping as well as you should, your bed might need replacing. This is especially true if you notice any of the following issues with your mattress.

5 signs that it’s time to replace your mattress

1. It’s uncomfortable

If your mattress is leaving you more restless than well-rested, it might be time to replace it. “Over time, the structural integrity of the support and comfort materials in any type of mattress will degrade, resulting in a gradual decline in how the mattress sleeps,” says Chapman. Also, she adds: “If you’re waking up with pain that you didn’t fall asleep with, then it’s time to consider changing your mattress.”

2. It’s visibly damaged or worn

Is your mattress sagging or lumpy? Does it have permanent imprints in spots you routinely sleep on? Are there coils or springs poking out from underneath the surface? If you’ve said yes to one or all of the above, “these are definite signs it’s time to change your mattress,” says Chapman. “The degrading materials will almost certainly impact your quality of sleep at night.”

3. It’s noisy

If you hear creaking, popping, or squeaking each time you lay down or shift in bed, these might point to a decline in a mattress’s structural integrity—which, as mentioned, can have a major impact on sleep quality. According to Fair, this is particularly evident in hybrid or innerspring mattresses with coils or springs, which tend to make unwanted noise as they weaken over time.

4. It’s making you sick

“An older bed that’s had time to collect dust, bacteria, dead skin cells, allergens, and more can cause people to feel under the weather more often than usual,” says Fair. If you find that you wake up stuffy or with scratchy eyes, even though you frequently clean and deodorize your mattress, you might want to consider investing in a new one.

5. It’s more than seven years old

While not all mattresses need to be replaced after seven years, it’s a good indication of when you may need to think about buying a new one. As Alexandra Duma, DC, DACBSP, a New York-based sports chiropractor, previously told Well+Good: “No matter how great your mattress is, over time it will degrade in the quality of support it provides for your body.”

How to replace your mattress

When your mattress is near the end of its lifespan or it becomes a pain to sleep on, you’ll definitely need to replace it. “Replacing an old mattress is so important for avoiding aches, pain, loss of sleep, poor sleep quality, and the possibility of becoming sick.” says Fair, adding that, “an unsupportive mattress is a recipe for developing body sores or feeling generally uncomfortable on a daily basis.”

That said, buying a new mattress will often cost you a pretty penny. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay full price to get a quality mattress. Besides yearly President’s Day sales, the best time to buy a mattress at discounted prices are during holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day. Retailers also typically slash prices on mattresses on Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday, but buyers have to act fast as stock is usually limited and deals are often short-lived.

As you shop for a new mattress, you’ll ideally want to try it before you buy it. It can be hard to know whether you’ll like how it sleeps or if the mattress’s firmness level works best for you without having tried it in person. When buying a mattress online, it’s also important to look for one with a trial period and, better yet, a generous return policy if for any reason it doesn’t work out for you.

If buying a new mattress isn’t in the budget? A mattress topper can serve as a solution, albeit a temporary one. “Think of a mattress topper as a ‘bandaid’ in this situation,” says Fair, “they can hold you over by maintaining a supportive surface to sleep on until you have the time or money to get a new bed.” If you’re considering buying a mattress topper, she recommends one that’s durable and supportive, such as latex models. Keep in mind that “even with help from the best-quality mattress topper, an old, uncomfortable mattress is likely to still cause you backaches or sleeplessness,” says Chapman.

How to maximize the lifespan of your mattress

Indeed everyone will have to replace their mattresses at one point or another, but there are a few things that you can do to maximize the lifespan of the mattress you already own. The first and arguably most important thing you can do is rotate your mattress at least every few months. “For latex and foam mattresses, you can do this every six months or so, and for innerspring or hybrid beds, every two to five years,” says Fair. “Doing so prevents sagging or indentation from being localized to one area over years of use—in turn, helping to maintain the feel of your bed’s surface for longer.” Chapman adds: “This also helps minimize the risk of pain or discomfort when you sleep.”

Second, make sure your mattress itself receives proper support. According to Chapman: “It’s a good idea to make sure there is a solid platform under your mattress to ensure it wears evenly and the way it is intended to.” You might also want to consider investing in a mattress protector. “Using a mattress protector can help keep your bed clean and stain free,” says Fair. In addition, it safeguards your bed from regular wear and tear, thereby, helping extend its lifespan.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know when I need a new mattress?

“When you realize your bed is either on the decline, or completely unsupportive, I would recommend replacing it as soon as possible to avoid the development of aches, pains, or loss of sleep in general,” says Fair. Sagging or lumpiness are often signs that you need to replace your mattress, and so are permanent body impressions. If you wake up tired and achy in the mornings, it could also mean that it’s time to think about investing in a new bed.

How long should a decent mattress last?

On average, a mattress’s lifespan is anywhere from seven years or longer. While there’s no firm answer on how long a decent mattress should last, you’ll likely want it to last you for as long as possible. More often than not, a mattress made from quality materials will last longer than its counterparts—and among the most common mattress types available, latex mattresses have the longest lifespan.

Can a mattress last for 20 years?

It’s possible that a mattress can last 20 years, though it may be unlikely. The average mattress can last up to 10 years before its quality starts to decline. However, you can maximize its lifespan by implementing a few regular maintenance practices. Experts recommend rotating the bed once every few months and ensuring it is supported by a sturdy platform. Plus, investing in a mattress protector can keep it clean and helps safeguard against premature wear and tear.

This year’s Sleep Week deals are the stuff of dreams. From mattresses and  furniture, to eye masks and alarm clocks, it’s all heavily discounted for the occasion and worth bringing home to your bedrooms STAT. If you’re feeling groggy from losing an hour of sleep yesterday, fear not—these Sleep Week deals will have you back to sleeping like a baby in no time.

Mattresses and furniture

1. Avocado 

Make the switch to organic—mattresses, that is. Avocado’s certified organic mattresses are handcrafted with better-for-you materials that are better for the planet, too. They’re all up to $300 off on the brand’s website including all different sizes and mattress types. Use the code SLEEP at checkout. Shop now. 

2. Casper

Technically, Casper is throwing a Daylight Savings deal, where you can “make up for lost sleep with up to $1,250 off mattresses, bed frames, pillows and more.” Sleep bundles are up to 40 percent off now through March 14, most of which include a mattress, bed frame, and accessories. Our pick? The Best-Selling Bundle that saves you 30 percent on a whole new sleep-scape, including a mattress, foundation, and waterproof protector. Shop now. 

3. Leesa

Leesa is known for its award-winning mattresses, and they’re up to $700 off right now. We recommend the Legend Hybrid ($1,599), an ultra-luxe, sustainable hybrid mattress that features cooling layers of cotton and merino wool, dual-spring support, and a high-density foam layer for durability. Legendary, indeed. Shop now. 

4. Nectar

Be it a new mattress, pillows, sheets, or nightstand, the Nectar sale has got you covered. Everything is 40 percent off, no code, needed. If that’s overwhelming, keep it simple with a tried-and-true original—the Nectar Memory Foam Mattress ($629), which has more than 40,000 5-star reviews. Shop now. 

5. Nolah 

Side-sleepers: Nolah’s Original 10-Inch Mattress ($899) is known for dreamy support, pressure relief, and thermoregulation. All of the brand’s mattresses are on sale now with savings up to $700 off. Plus, the brand will throw in two free pillows with your purchase. Shop now. 

6. Saatva

Today through March 18, get a whopping $500 off on order $1,000 or more. No special code—you’ll just see the savings at checkout. The Saatva Classic Mattress (starting at $995) is the most popular mattress for the brand (as well as W+G readers), but another popular one among hot sleepers is the cooling Saatva Latex Hybrid (starting at $745). Shop now.

Bedding

7. Brooklinen

Yep, Brooklinen’s sheets really are as good as they say. Lucky for you, they’re 20 percent off for Sleep Week, alongside other best-selling pillows, throw blankets, and other accessories. Don’t sleep on the Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle ($218), which is more than $100 off and comes in just-dropped, limited-edition prints that are perfect for a spring refresh. Shop now. 

8. Cozy Earth 

If you’re a hot sleeper or just run warm all the time, Cozy Earth is your one-stop shop for cool clothing and bedding. From its Oprah-approved bamboo sheets, to its editor-beloved cooling loungewear, it’s all breathable and lightweight. Bonus: It’s all up to 30 percent off right now. Shop now. 

9. Marlow

Brooklinen’s sister brand, Marlow, makes an adjustable pillow that’s suitable for just about any type of sleeper that’s 20 percent off, too. Each Marlow Pillow ($52) is fully customizable, equipped with three loft profiles that can be zipped or unzipped to your liking—no stuffing in extra fill to get the job done. Dreamy, eh? Shop now. 

10. Mellanni

Mellanni is one of Amazon’s top-selling sheets brands for hotel-quality luxury. With more than 330,000 ratings, these Queen sheets are beloved for their supreme softness, cooling technology, and affordable price tag. Normally $50, they’re marked down to $35 and come in a variety of prints, colors, and sizes perfect for creating your dream bedscape. Shop now. 

11. Parachute

You can still catch the tail-end of Parachute’s epic Warehouse Sale tonight if you shop fast. The entire “Last Chance” section is up for grabs at 20 percent off with the code HAPPYHOME20, and the sales are truly dreamy. Think: Up to 60 percent off breezy linen sheets, chic robes, airy athleisure, and even furniture. Shop now. 

12. Sunday Citizen

If you’d rather take your time, Sunday Citizen is offering 20 percent off its Snug Crystal Weighted Blanket ($215) all month long. Each plush throw is filled with a blend of rose quartz, clear quartz, and amethyst to provide gentle pressure and is wrapped in the brand’s signature snug fabric. Choose from 10-, 15-, 20-, and 25-pound blankets. Shop now. 

Sleep accessories

13. Blissy

Fun fact: Silk is better for your skin and hair than traditional cotton or linen. Enter, Blissy, which makes all of its sleep accessories with luscious mulberry silk that are nearly half off for the remainder of the month. Shop pillowcases, eye masks, hair accessories, pajamas, and more for up to 50 percent off, plus free shipping. Shop now. 

14. Amazon Halo Rise Alarm Clock

Start your day off with a soothing morning routine from Amazon’s Halo Rise alarm clock, marked down from $140 to $100 for Sleep Week. It wakes you up naturally, using light to mimic a sunrise and also doubles as a sleep tracker, using no-contact technology to monitor breathing, movements, room temperature, and more. “Rise and shine” just got a whole new meaning. Shop now. 

15. Jall Alarm Clock

Or, get the budget-friendly Jall Alarm Clock ($30) for a fraction of the price. It’s a sunrise alarm clock, too, and includes seven alarm settings and color options. While it doesn’t double as a sleep tracker, it does also work as a radio and a bedside lamp. Shop now. 

16. Renpho Heated Eye Massager 

Elevate your nap time with Renpho’s Heated Eye Massager ($70) that’s 15 percent off on Amazon. The massaging mask heats up between 104-107 degrees Fahrenheit while oscillating pressure and percussion alleviate eye pain, strain, and overall fatigue. Perfect for naps, migraine relief, mid-day pick-me-ups, and more. Shop now. 

Training a plant is essentially guiding where a plant spreads it tendrils and leaves. It involves installing a guide object, typically a pole, to direct that spread and also to provide stability. Typically, the guide object is used to train a houseplant to grow upward. And often, that vertical mobility is what helps them reach their full potential.

According to Terry Huang, botanist and director of living collections at South Coast Botanic Garden in California, certain plant species that originate from tropical and subtropical environments (like philodendrons) require vertical growth to reach their full height and leaf-growth potential. That’s largely due to how such plants grow in their natural habitats. “They start off on the forest floor and scramble up,” he says. “Their leaves get bigger and more intricate-looking because they get more light, and they finish their life cycle at the top of the rainforest where there’s plenty of light and they’re doing their thing.”

While you likely don’t live in a rainforest, you can replicate a similar effect in your home if you want your plants to grow vertically rather than horizontally. Without putting a support in place to encourage a plant to climb up, plants will grow outward and their vines and tendrils will hang down. This is a perfectly healthy growth pattern for plants that naturally climb. For example, without training a monstera, “it’ll just kind of grow sideways and you’ll just have to re-pot it a bit more often,” Huang says.

The benefits of training your houseplants

Training a houseplant that naturally grows vertically to do just that is beneficial for its overall health. According to Danuelle Doswell and Mignon Hemsley, cofounders of the indoor plant company Grounded, replicating your plant’s natural habitat at home as much as possible helps keep it healthy and allows it to grow to its full strength and size. “The more you learn about where [the plants] come from, the more you’re able to re-create that in your space,” Doswell says.

Training plants that climb to grow upward is part of that, and the people who do it can typically expect their plants to grow stronger roots and larger, more intricate leaves.

The types of houseplants that benefit the most from training

Because many common houseplants are of a tropical origin, “at least 50 percent of your more common houseplants will need a support of some kind,” says Jim Salyards, horticulturist and director of horticulture at Filoli, an early 20th century preserved estate with more than 16 acres of gardens. This includes vining plants like monstera (Monstera deliciosa), pothos (Epipremnum aureum), philodendrons, and string of hearts (Ceropegia).  If you want to change the shape of your plant, training can be helpful, too.

He says plants with leaves that are arranged in a more rounded, rosette-like shape need this less; for example, Chinese money plants (Pilea Peperomioides) and spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) fall in this category. It’s not necessary for plants whose growths naturally hang either, like string of pearls (Cenecio rowleyanus).

When is the best time to train your plant?

Start training your plant when it begins to sprout new growths and when its existing growths are getting longer. This means that your plant is doing well, and it’s a good time to start directing it. “Your houseplant is happy and healthy and growing really well when it is sending out really long shoots,” Salyards says. You could also start as soon as you get your plant, but likely, it’s not necessary. “You need it to grow long enough to get it on the support,” he adds.

“Your houseplant is happy and healthy and growing really well when it is sending out really long shoots.” —Jim Salyards, horticulturalist and Director of Horticulture at Filoli

How to train your houseplant

Actually starting the process of training your houseplant is easy, the experts say.

First, pick which guide object you’ll use. Doswell and Hemsley suggest a moss pole, which is a sturdy stick covered in moss. These are stable and wide, so the plant has plenty to grab onto. The plant’s roots can also penetrate the moss and anchor the plant to it. Plus, the moss pole can also act as a self-watering mechanism for the plant. “You can spray the pole, and as long as you keep the moss moist, the plant can get water and nutrients from the moss pole as well,” Doswell says. Misting the moss pole also encourages the plant’s roots to latch onto it, which can help it grow vertically. If a moss pole doesn’t fit the look you’re going for, Hemsley also recommends a bamboo stick, which is skinnier, but also very sturdy.

Next, install the pole in the plant’s pot so it points straight up. Once the pole is in, secure the tendrils and shoots you’d like to direct against the pole using plant ties (some types are made of Velcro, and others are coated wires). Be careful not to affix it too tightly and crush the plant’s offshoots, but be sure that the tie is secure.

Regarding pole size, keep in mind that you don’t have to start with a towering pole, Doswell and Hemsley say. Rather, buy one that fits the plant’s existing shoots, with some extra room for it to grab as it grows. Then, be ready to add length as your plant needs it.

Once the training guides are in, don’t forget to perform the regular maintenance required to keep your plant healthy and at its best, like occasional pruning and repotting your plant if it outgrows its container. (Doswell and Hemlsey say you likely will need to repot your plant when you start training it or just after because of how strong it’ll become). Check your plant every month or so to make sure it’s growing in the direction you want it to and doing well. Finally, enjoy its guided growth, you responsible plant parent, you.

Personally, I’m a side sleeper all the way—and according to sleep studies, most Americans are too. Because side sleeping is easily one of the most popular sleep positions around, there are plenty of pillow options to pick from (a blessing and a curse if you’re easily overwhelmed by choice like me). To make finding the best pillow for side sleepers easy, we asked sleep experts for guidance.

Best pillows for side sleepers at a glance:

Best overall: Layla Kapok Pillow ($109)
Best memory foam: Coop Home Goods Memory Foam Pillow ($72)
Best for neck/back pain: UTTU Sandwich Pillow ($45)
Best body pillow: Milliard U Shaped Total Body Support Pillow ($43)
Best for shoulder pain: Cushion Lab Deep Sleep Pillow ($98)
Best value: DreamyBlue Premium Pillow ($36)
Best latex: Saatva Latex Pillow ($165)
Best cooling: Purple Harmony Pillow ($161)
Best down pillow: Parachute Down Side Sleeper Pillow ($159)
Best adjustable: Marlow Pillow ($65)

What kind of pillow should a side sleeper use?

Sleep experts agree that the best pillows for side sleepers are the ones that sufficiently fill that gap between your shoulder and the side of your head, and support neck and spinal alignment—otherwise you could risk neck and upper back pain come morning.

“Side sleepers should choose pillows that are firm enough to align their head and neck with their spine, yet cushioned enough to alleviate pressure points on their shoulders and necks,” says Susan Miller, a certified sleep technician RPSGT, at SleepMattressHQ.com. Miller goes on to say that latex or memory foam pillows are often the types that can hit that sweet spot of cushioned and supportive. “Foam or latex pillows typically offer the best support that side sleepers need while sleeping,” agrees Logan Foley, a sleep science coach and product expert at SleepFoundation.org.

While you may be tempted to stack pillows in search of more support (I myself am guilty of this), the experts agree that sleeping with more than one pillow isn’t a good idea. “Using two pillows is not recommended for side sleepers because it can cause the head to be positioned too high, which can cause neck and shoulder pain,” explains Miller. “Instead, use one pillow that provides the necessary support and sufficient cushioning.” If you really want to use two pillows, try putting the second pillow between your knees. “While it’s not necessary by any means, some side sleepers prefer to use two pillows—one for their head and one to place between their knees to maintain a neutral spine alignment,” says Bridget Chapman, a sleep expert and certified sleep science coach at Sleepopolis.

What should side sleepers look for when pillow shopping?

Loft

According to the experts, the single most important thing to look for when choosing a pillow for side sleepers is the loft, or height, of your pillow. Remember the gap between your shoulder and side of your head I mentioned earlier? A pillow with sufficient loft should fill that space comfortably. “Side sleepers should generally seek a pillow with a higher loft (4″ or more) to help them maintain a neutral spine alignment,” says Chapman. “Pillows with adjustable loft are something that side sleepers should keep an eye out for since they allow you to fine-tune the height of your pillow to optimize comfort and support,” explains Ryan Fiorenzi, a certified sleep coach and founder of StartSleeping.org.

Material & Fill

When it comes to material, sleep experts have several recommendations. “A good pillow material to look for when shopping for a side sleeper is shredded foam,” says Elisa Regulski, a certified sleep science coach and editor at Mattress Clarity. “Shredded foam will be plush enough to offer neck support, but is also responsive and will allow you to sink into it just enough to keep proper spinal alignment.” Latex and memory foam pillows were also repeat recommendations from sleep experts, because they offer support while still cradling your neck and shoulders to keep you comfy and properly aligned. “Many side sleepers prefer memory foam in both their pillow and their mattress to give them the contouring and pressure relief they need at the neck, shoulders, and hips,” Chapman adds.

Shape

Experts say the shape of your pillow is key to keeping your neck and head supported, and preventing pain that may come as a result of side sleeping. “If you’ve ever experienced neck pain and find the base of your neck unsupported as a side sleeper, you may want to look out for a cervical or contoured pillow,” advises Fiorenzi. That said, it’s important to remember that the best pillow shape for you will depend on your body type (read: the space between your shoulders and head), and your own personal preference.

Firmness

To keep the void between your shoulder and head filled, you’ll want to choose a pillow with adequate firmness and support that’ll keep its shape all night long (because who likes a flat pillow?). While the degree of firmness is largely up to personal preference, experts recommend staying within the firm category for optimal support. “Side sleepers should look for a pillow that provides support without being too firm,” says Miller. “Side sleepers are generally going to be most comfortable on a medium-firm pillow.”

Best overall

Layla, Kapok Pillow — $109.00

Available sizes: Queen-King

Miller says the Layla Kapok (pronounced “kay-pok”) Pillow ticks all of the boxes for side sleepers. The plush pillow is stuffed with a mix of shredded memory foam and natural kapok fibers (aka java cotton), which molds to your neck and head for maximum support and softness. It comes slightly overstuffed to ensure you get the best support, and you can adjust the loft by removing stuffing in order to achieve the perfect height. The pillow cover uses a viscose-polyester blend that’s uber soft (you might even consider ditching a pillowcase) and breathable, so you feel cool all night long.

Material / Fill: Shredded memory foam, natural Kapok fibers
Cover: 66% polyester, 30% viscose, 4% poly/lycra blend
Loft: Adjustable

Pros:

• Adjustable loft
• Conforms to your shape
• Comfortable and supportive
• Breathable material keeps you cool

Cons:

• Finding the right stuffing level requires some trial and error

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Best memory foam

Coop Home Goods, Original Loft Pillow — $72.00

Available sizes: Queen-King

The Original Loft Pillow by Coop Home Goods is made to accommodate all sleep styles, but experts say it’s a particularly great pillow for side sleepers. It’s fully adjustable and stuffed with the brand’s proprietary blend of cross-cut medium firm memory foam and microfiber—it even comes with half a pound of extra fill for added loft if you need! What’s more, the case is made of Coop’s signature Lulltra fabric, a viscose-rayon blend that’s soft to the touch and plenty breathable, so you needn’t worry about overheating in the middle of the night.

Material / Fill: Cross cut memory foam, microfiber
Cover: 60% polyester, 40% rayon
Loft: Adjustable

Pros:

• Adjustable loft
• Firm but malleable memory foam filling
• Great for all sleep positions
• Comes with an extra bag of filling
• Soft and breathable material stays cool

Cons:

• Doesn’t maintain its shape, according to reviews

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Best for neck/back pain

Uttu, Sandwich Pillow — $45.00

Available sizes: Queen-King

The Uttu Sandwich Pillow is made using a dynamic memory foam that contours to your neck and improves spinal alignment—making it a great pillow for side sleepers who deal with back and neck pain. The memory foam material boasts a five second rebound when squished, which means it’ll keep its shape throughout the night, and withstand the test of time. Plus, the pillow has a removable middle layer that can be easily adjusted to achieve four different heights, giving you the perfect loft. And Amazon shoppers love it too, earning it over 9,000 5-star reviews.

Material / Fill: Memory foam
Cover: 40% Bamboo Viscose, 60% Polyester
Loft: Adjustable

Pros:

• Firm yet responsive memory foam
• Easy to adjust (no loose filling)
• Helps improve alignment and relieve back/neck pain
• Breathable bamboo cover
• Contours to your neck and head

Cons:

• Might be too firm for some, according to reviews

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Best body pillow

Milliard, U Shaped Total Body Support Pillow — $43.00

Available sizes: One size

If you like sleeping with an extra pillow between your legs, a U-shaped body pillow like this one by Milliard gives side sleepers the best of both worlds. The long, memory foam pillow helps relieve pressure throughout the body for maximum comfort while you snooze, and spooning it like you would your usual leg pillow can help keep your whole body aligned. It’s covered in a velvety soft velour fabric that’s perfect for snuggling, and the supportive memory foam filling cradles you to sleep in pure comfort.

Material / Fill: Shredded memory foam
Cover: Velour
Loft: Adjustable

Pros:

• Soft but supportive memory foam filling
• Plush velour cover
• Supports full body alignment
• Helps relieve pressure throughout the body
• Great for pregnancy and maternity
• Filling can be added or removed for customizable comfort

Cons:

• Finding a case for it is tricky
• Foam filling may break up after a while, according to reviews

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Best for shoulder pain

Cushion Lab, Deep Sleep Pillow — $98.00

Available sizes: Standard

Designed with side sleepers in mind, Cushion Lab’s Deep Sleep Pillow features sculpted side bolsters that cradle your neck and head as you sleep and an ergonomic shoulder line that lets you snuggle close without adding pressure—alleviating pressure and shoulder pain, and enhancing spinal alignment for a good night’s sleep. Most importantly, the memory foam cushion is the perfect marriage of plush softness and firm support—it’s like you’re sleeping on a cloud. It even comes with the brand’s Fresh Face Pillowcase, a machine washable pillow case that reduces friction on your skin and hair, for reduced frizz and creasing by morning!

Material / Fill: Memory foam
Cover: 85% Cooling Nylon, 15% Spandex
Loft: 5.5” inches

Pros:

• Sculpted side bolsters help relieve pressure/shoulder pain
• Ergonomic shoulder line lets you snuggle close without strain
• Cloud-like memory foam
• Good for side and back sleepers
• Includes washable pillowcase

Cons:

• Not adjustable
• The sculpted shape might not agree with everyone

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Best value

DreamyBlue, Premium Pillow — $36.00

Available sizes: Queen-King

Perfect for side, back, and stomach sleepers, the DreamyBlue Premium Pillow is stuffed with easily removable shredded memory foam, giving you the freedom to customize your loft as needed for your best sleep yet. DreamyBlue’s shredded memory foam also gives the Premium Pillow the fluffy feel of down and the supportive firmness of pure memory foam, for balanced comfort. The bamboo-rayon blend cover is airy and breathable too, so you’ll stay cool throughout the night. It comes *highly* reviewed, with over 13,000 5-star ratings. And the best part? At $36 bucks, it’s the most affordable pillow on this list.

Material / Fill: Shredded memory foam
Cover: Bamboo, rayon
Loft: Adjustable

Pros:

• Adjustable loft
• Has the fluffiness of down and the support of memory foam
• Breathable bamboo cover
• Comes with an extra bag of filling
• Great for back, stomach, and side sleepers
• Affordable

Cons:

• Shredded filling doesn’t keep its shape as well, according to reviews

Shop Now

Best latex

Saatva, Latex Pillow — $165.00

Available sizes: Queen-King

The Saatva Latex Pillow delivers the head and neck support that every side sleeper needs. Designed with a latex core, it has a natural buoyancy that helps alleviate pressure, and is super durable—which means its supportive feel will last over time. What’s more, the core is surrounded by a removable, organic cotton pillow that adds loft and breathability for a comfortable and cool sleep. The cherry on top? The cotton sateen cover feels soft on skin, and is machine washable for easy maintenance.

Material / Fill: Natural latex core, cotton, microdenier fiber
Cover: Cotton sateen
Loft: Unknown

Pros:

• Latex core alleviates pressure
• Durable design
• Removable cotton pillow adds loft and softness
• Cotton sateen cover adds breathability
• Machine washable cover

Cons:

• Not adjustable
• Pricey

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Best cooling

Purple, Harmony Pillow — $161.00

Originally $179, now $161 

Available sizes: Standard-King

As if “Harmony Pillow” doesn’t sound dreamy enough, this Purple pillow is wrapped in a cooling mesh material that wicks away moisture and maximizes airflow—putting pillow flipping to rest, for good. Plus, it has the same cushioned—but firm—feel as Purple’s best-selling mattresses, so you know it’s good. The latex core takes the pressure off your head and neck, and supports you in any sleeping position—and it’s available in three different lofts, guaranteeing you’ll find the best one for you.

Material / Fill: Ventilated Talalay Latex with Polyester Knit Cover
Cover: 92% Nylon Fiber, 8% Spandex Fiber
Loft: Low, Medium, Tall

Pros:

• Mesh cover stays cool and wicks away moisture
• Durable latex core supports your head and neck
• Cushioned but firm feel
• Available in 3 heights

Cons:

• Not adjustable
• Doesn’t keep its shape, according to reviews

Shop Now

Best down

Parachute, Down Side Sleeper Pillow — $159.00

Available sizes: Standard-King

Stuffed with all natural European down, Parachute’s Side Sleeper Pillow boasts a medium density that’s equal parts plush and supportive. The 3.5” inch gusset helps lock in its shape, and minimize the strain on your neck and shoulders while you sleep. And it’s finished with a soft, cotton sateen cover that feels like luxurious hotel linens. In other words, if you’re a side sleeper that’s willing to invest—this Parachute pillow is well worth the coin.

Material / Fill: 85% Down, 15% Down and Feather Fibers
Cover: 100% Cotton Sateen
Loft: 3.5” inches

Pros:

• All natural European down fill
• 3.5″ gusset helps maintain its shape
• Plush cotton sateen cover
• Medium density offers support and cushion
• Reduces strain on neck and head

Cons:

• Pricey
• Not adjustable

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I rarely upgrade my bedding, but considering we spend a third of our lives sleeping, I thought I’d test out a new set of sheets this year to see if I could find a set that could check off all the boxes (those mainly being comfort, and durability, but if they possessed some kind of ability to help me fall asleep faster, they’d be awarded brownie points for sure). After hearing all the rave about the Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheets—which happen to be Oprah-approved—I decided to test them out myself see what all the hype was about. Keep scrolling to find out whether they’re worth the internet and celeb buzz.

Cozy Earth, Bamboo Sheet Set (Queen) — $295.00

Originally $369, now $295

Made of 100 percent viscose derived from bamboo, these featherlight sheets are breathable, naturally hypoallergenic, and super soft. They’re ideal for people with sensitive skin and eczema, and come in a reusable carrying tote that makes transport easy.

Sizes available: Twin to split king

Colors: 5

• Pros:
• Silky soft
• Temperature-regulating
• Easy to wash
• Pilling-resistant

Cons:

• Expensive
• Come in five colors only

Shop Now

What happened when I tried the Cozy Earth bamboo sheets

I tested these bed sheets on my cooling mattress for two weeks and can confirm: these are the softest sheets I’ve ever owned. Sheets that I’ve used in the past felt like sand paper, but not with these bamboo sheets. These lightweight ones are constructed of 100 percent viscose derived from bamboo, mimicking silk and giving them a lush and extra soft feel. After giving the sheets a go, I found that these sheets don’t rub against or irritate my sensitive and eczema-prone skin.

Since I have eczema, I find that heat-trapping sheets cause me to itch. However, bamboo sheets and pillow cases tend to be super breathable. “This type of fabric [viscose from bamboo] allows for better temperature regulation of skin, and can make for a reasonable option for those with atopic dermatitis or eczema,” says Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York. Naturally, bamboo sheets are hypoallergenic, anti-bacterial, and moisture-wicking, absorbing sweat—an irritant for people with eczema. As a hot sleeper, I don’t find myself sneezing up a storm in my bedroom, which can get dusty from time to time, or busting out in a sweat. Count on Cozy Earth to make soaked sheets a thing of the past.

As a girlie of aesthetics, I love how these sheets come in five neutral colors, from white to beige to grey. Unfortunately, these sheets don’t come in any bright or bold colors; however, you can decorate with ornate pillows or colorful comforters, if color is your thing. Since the viscose is weaved closely together, the sheets are pill-resistant and don’t nick even against abrasive or sharp surfaces. With the proper care, I think these sheets will hold up for the long run. Plus, they come packaged in a reusable white tote with durable handles, making the set easy to store or travel with.

What’s included?

Every sheet sheet set comes with a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillow cases while the king set comes with king-sized pillowcases.

Sizing

The sets retail for (at the time of publication) and are available in the following sizes:

• Twin / Twin XL ($255)
• Full ($279)
• Queen ($295)
• King ($327)
• California King ($335)
• Split King ($351)

How to care for your sheets

The best way to care for your sheets is by machine washing them in cold water. The brand recommends throwing them in the washer on a regular cycle with detergent. Fabric softener or bleach is not recommended. You can also freshen up your sheets by hanging them in sunlight for a few hours every four to six months, per the brand. One thing I did notice after sleeping on the sheets is that they crease easily, so hang drying them might help with the wrinkles.

Since sleeping on Cozy Earth’s bamboo sheets, I’ve noticed fewer occasions of itchy skin, sweaty nights, and disruptions to my sleep. You can snooze peacefully, too (fine, brownie points awarded). For a limited time, the bamboo sheets—which originally retail for $369 for a Queen—are being slashed to $295, a 20 percent savings.

The best silk pillowcases at a glance:

• Best overall: Blissy Mulberry Silk Pillowcase ($75)
• Runner-up: Quince 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase ($40)
• Best for breakage: Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase ($89)
• Best for shiny hair: Parachute Silk Pillowcase ($89)
• Best cooling: Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Pillowcase ($53)
• Most colorful: Lilysilk Silk Pillowcase ($39)
• Best set: Casper Silk Pillowcase and Sleep Mask Set ($70)
• Best for clearer skin: Night Silk Plus Pillowcase ($50)
• Best for fine lines and wrinkles: Herb + Flora Morpheus Pillowcase ($80)
• Best vegan silk alternative: Eucalypso Pillowcase Set ($45)
• Best in the wash: Lunya Washable Silk Pillowcase ($78)
• Best budget: Zimasilk Mulberry Silk Pillowcase ($24)

Why use a silk pillowcase?

Less breakage and frizz

If you’ve ever woken up with a gnarly case of bedhead, then you already know why silk pillowcases are so necessary. Unlike traditional cotton pillowcases that can pull on your strands while you toss and turn in your sleep, silk pillowcases have a smooth, soft texture that reduces friction on your hair. This means less tangles, less bedhead, and less breakage. “Silk pillowcases are beneficial for hair because the smooth silk fabric helps to prevent tension on the hair that can lead to breakage,” explains Gina Rivera, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites. Rivera explains that since they’re naturally less abrasive, silk pillowcases are great at retaining the hair’s natural oils, keeping strands softer and more hydrated for longer. “I also recommend using a silk pillowcase after getting chemical services such as hair color, highlights, and perms,” she says.

Less skin irritation and creasing

Silk pillowcases help reduce the friction between your pillow and your skin too, which means less sheet marks, less skin irritation, and (maybe) even less fine lines and wrinkles over time. “Silk pillowcases are touted to be hypoallergenic, meaning they are less likely to irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction,” explains Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, APRN, a family nurse practitioner who specializes in dermatology at Orentreich Medical Group in New York City. “If you have eczema or psoriasis, a silk pillowcase can possibly help your skin feel better.” Silk pillowcases also help diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles over time, and can combat acne and blemishes (though Dr. LoGergo notes that the acne benefits are purely anecdotal.)

Less product waste

Let’s face it—you put a lot of time and effort into your skin-care routine, but if you’re sleeping on anything but silk, your coveted skin-care products are getting soaked up by your pillowcase, not your skin. Silk absorbs way less moisture than other materials, which means the ingredients in all your serums, moisturizers, and oils are better absorbed by your skin (as they should be!) Sleeping on silk also ensures you’ll experience less dryness come morning, which is a huge plus.

Silk vs. satin

The biggest difference between silk and satin pillowcases is that silk is a natural fiber, while satin is a woven fabric. Because of this, silk is usually softer to the touch, and more expensive. However, experts say that satin does offer similar hair and skin benefits, with some caveats. “Satin is supposed to be non-absorbent, which means it can keep moisture on the skin and hair,” says Dr. LoGerfo.

Rivera agrees, saying both silk and satin are good for your hair, but silk’s superior lack of absorbency makes it particularly suited for those who like to sleep with masks or leave-in conditioners on their hair, or those who are more prone to breakage. “Silk tends to be less absorbent so the hair can retain product and moisture more efficiently,” she explains. “Satin is also a good choice as a standard pillowcase because it’s gentle on the hair and, like silk, it helps prevent tension, and reduce frizz and tangles that can lead to breakage.”

How to choose a silk pillowcase

Look at the momme weight

Just like thread count is key when shopping for bedsheets, you’ll want to consider the momme—the measuring unit for the weight and quality of silk—of your silk pillowcase before you buy. Generally, you’ll want to shop for pillowcases with a 19-25-momme (the higher, the better.) Go any lower, and you’ll likely find that the pillowcase feels thinner and is more likely to tear after a couple of uses.

Always check the care instructions

Even though silk pillowcases harbor less bacteria than traditional cotton, they’ll still need to be washed every so often, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into as far as maintenance is concerned. Most (but not all) silk pillowcases are machine washable on a delicate setting, but you should check the care instructions before buying so you know exactly what it’ll take to maintain your silk pillowcase’s softness.

Best overall

Blissy, Mulberry Silk Pillowcase — $75.00

Originally $100, now $75

Available sizes: Standard-King

This Blissy pillowcase ticks all of our silk-pillowcase boxes. It’s made of 22-momme, 100-percent Mulberry silk, is cool-to-the-touch, can be chucked in the wash for easy cleaning, and it comes in a ton of vibrant colors to match your bedding. What’s more, it has a whopping 15,000+ 5-star reviews, so you know it’s the real deal.

“I have never been able to go without washing my hair every day because of ‘bed head’, but that is no longer an issue,” wrote one Blissy fan in a 5-star review. “My hair looks as good when I wake up as it does when I go to bed! My hair is healthier, shinier, not as dry, and has less breakage. My skin and complexion is also improved with fewer breakouts, [it’s] not as dry, and I don’t wake up with sheet creases on my face.”

Colors: 44

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Runner-up

Quince, 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase — $40.00

Available sizes: Queen/Standard-King

Quince knows how to deliver luxury at an accessible price point, and the brand’s 100-percent mulberry silk pillowcase is no exception. Touting over 600 reviews, it does everything we want our silk pillowcases to do—minimize bedhead, smooth and protect skin, and reduce friction—for less than $50 bucks. It features a no-fuss zipper closure, and comes in a range of fun and neutral colors too. The only reason that it doesn’t get best overall is because it doesn’t have the amount of reviews the Blissy one has, and comes in less colors, too.

But it’s still amazing:  “After some time of using this as my first silk pillowcase, I can truly say that it has calmed both my skin and hair,” said one Quince shopper in a 5-star review. “It is light and smooth, and I’m so glad I came across this! The quality you get for the price you pay is totally worth it.”

Colors: 7

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Best for breakage

Slip, Pure Silk Pillowcase — $89.00

Available sizes: Queen-King

Rivera recommends Slip’s Pure Silk Pillowcases, which she says are a must for combating friction that can cause breakage and bedhead. Made using a high-grade, 22-momme mulberry silk, the Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase boasts a luxurious, smooth texture that glides effortlessly against strands instead of pulling and tangling throughout the night. This means less breakage and smoother hair in the morning.

“I was hesitant like everyone else, and it’s true you need this pillow case,” gushed one happy Slip customer. “My hair is no longer breaking or getting tangled. It also helps keep my head cool.”

Colors: 9

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Best for shiny hair

Parachute, Silk Pillowcase — $89.00

Available sizes: Standard-King

If you want to wake up to shinier hair, this Parachute Silk Pillowcase is the ticket, according to shoppers. Made of 25-momme mulberry silk—the highest quality on the market—Parachute’s silk pillowcase has an especially soft and smooth texture that feels amazing on skin and brings out the best in your mane. It comes in a classic white that goes with any bedscape. Plus the silk fibers stay cool, which means you won’t have to worry about overheating or sweating throughout the night.

“My hair absolutely loves it…I can see the difference—[it’s] shinier, less dull hair in the mornings,” wrote one Parachute customer in a 5-star review. “Also my skin seems to benefit. Now considering buying a few of these. The quality is absolutely there!”

Colors: White

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Best cooling

Brooklinen, Mulberry Silk Pillowcase — $53.00

Originally $59, now $53 

Available sizes: Standard-King

In addition to the soft, friction-less feel that’s gentle on skin and hair, Brooklinen’s Mulberry Silk Pillowcase is naturally cool to the touch, making it perfect for sleepers that run hot. Silk is typically thermoregulating, of course, but reviewers say (and there are over 1,000 of them) that Brooklinen’s take feels especially cool on the skin, so you’ll never spend the night flipping your pillow to cool down.

One Brooklinen shopper says it’s a must-have: “Luxurious and cooling…The only pillowcase I HAVE TO HAVE on my bed at all times. Can’t sleep without it!”

Colors: 6

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Most colorful

Lilysilk, 19 Momme Terse Envelope Silk Pillowcase — $39.00

Available sizes: Standard-King

If you want to experience the benefits of sleeping on silk and spruce up your bedding at the same time, Lilysilk has a great selection of stylish colors and patterns to choose from. There are light and dark neutrals, bold jewel tones, and a mix of watercolor, marble, and floral prints that are sure to make a statement. Each pillowcase is made of a 19-momme mulberry silk, and you can even get yours monogrammed for an extra $25.

“Love the feel and [the] color it is as vibrant as it looks online!” said one Lilysilk shopper.

Colors: 12

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Best set

Casper, Silk Pillowcase and Sleep Mask Set — $70.00

Originally $139, now $70 

Available sizes: Standard-King

For folks who want to double up on silk, this silk pillowcase and eye mask set from Casper is an instant add-to-cart. Made of 100-percent mulberry silk, this soft set feels as luxe on your skin and hair, as it looks on your bed. Plus, the eye mask totally blocks out the light to help eliminate distraction as you fall asleep.

Colors: 3

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Best for clearer skin

Night, Silk Plus Pillowcase — $50.00

Available sizes: Standard-King

One side of this Night Silk Plus Pillowcase is made of mulberry silk—which, as we’ve learned, helps skin retain nourishment for a softer, smoother feel—and the other side is made of rayon, which promises to wick away moisture and bring balance to oily and combination skin. So basically, this 2-in-1 pillowcase gives you the freedom to flip or flop depending on your skin’s needs. Pretty cool right?

“I love the feel of the Night pillowcases. I no longer wake up with deep fabric lines in my face, and I don’t find hair all over my pillow,” wrote one shopper in a 5-star review. “The material is so soft against my skin and very gentle with my hair. I’m very happy with these pillowcases. It’s a great way to get a little extra care while you sleep.”

Color: Champagne

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Best for fine lines and wrinkles

Herb + Flora, Morpheus Pillowcase — $80.00

Available sizes: Standard

If smoother looking skin is what you’re after, you might want to invest in this Herb+Flora pillowcase. Every fiber in the Morpheus silk pillowcase is woven with copper fibers (an essential mineral said to support skin-health), to help boost skin radiance and diminish the look of fine lines when used over time. And did we mention that it looks (and feels) as fancy as it sounds?

“I know it’s bad for wrinkles, but I’m a face sleeper. Can’t help it, I’ve tried,” wrote one Herb+Flora shopper in a 5-star review. “The thing about this pillowcase besides the comfort and aesthetic is obvious—when I wake up in the morning, I can tell my skin has absorbed my face product and not my bedding. Nothing worse than waking up to an oily pillowcase, [that] doesn’t happen with this one!!! 1000% recommend.”

Color: White

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Best vegan silk alternative

Eucalypso, Pillowcase Set — $45.00

Originally $59, now $45 

Available sizes: Standard-King

For folks looking for a vegan alternative to silk, these Eucalypso pillowcases feel just as soft on skin and hair. Made of 100-percent tencel lyocell (which is sustainably sourced from eucalyptus bark and touts hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties), they’re great for sensitive or acne prone skin. The cherry on top? They come in a set of two, and are available in a range of muted and modern shades.

“These are the best pillow cases I’ve ever used!” said one happy Eucalypso shopper in a 5-star review. “They’re ultra soft, stay cool all night, and are beautiful quality. Absolutely would get again.”

Colors: 7

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Best in the wash

Lunya, Washable Silk Good in Bed Pillowcase — $78.00

Available sizes: Queen

Lunya is known for its washable silk fabric that somehow maintains its velvety softness after countless washes—and the brand’s Washable Silk Pillowcase is no different. On top of all the aforementioned skin and hair benefits, Lunya silk positively screams luxury. And the best part is, that fancy feeling doesn’t wear off with time, unlike other silk pillowcases out there. Getting it clean is simple: toss it in your laundry machine on a cold, delicate cycle, then tumble dry it on low heat.

Color: White

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Best budget

Zimasilk, 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase — $24.00

Originally $40, now $24 

Available sizes: Standard, Queen, King

This mulberry silk pillowcase by Zimasilk gives you the luxury feeling of silk, without the luxury price tag. Made of a 19-momme, breathable mulberry silk, this budget-friendly silk pillowcase feels like velvet on skin and hair (which means smoother, bedhead-free tendrils and less tugging on the skin). Zimasilk boasts 31,000 (!!) 5-star ratings on Amazon, so you know it’s worth the hype. Reviewers recommend washing it on a delicate cycle and hang-drying to get the most bang for your buck.

“I’m in love with these pillow cases,” wrote one Amazon shopper in a 5-star review. “I purchased one for myself and another for my mom, and plan on purchasing a few more so that I always have clean ones to use while the dirty ones are being cleaned. While I’ve never tried any of the more costly brands for comparison, I am more than happy with these and see no reason to invest in a more expensive item.”

Colors: 24

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“Rough bedding can irritate sensitive skin and particularly those with eczema,” says Leah Ansell, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and professor of dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center. “It can cause abrasions to already sensitive skin, which can allow inflammation or infections to occur.” The good news is, the best bedding for eczema can work wonders on compromised skin.

What to look for in the best bed sheets for eczema

Since eczematic skin can be easily irritated, Dr. Ansell says to avoid scratchy fabrics like wool, flannel, and linen. Instead, opt for softer and gentler fabrics like 100 percent cotton, silk, or sateen sheets, particularly ones with a higher thread count. “This usually indicates softer sheets” that can prevent abrasion or rubbing, she adds. How you take care of your bedding matters, too. Per Dr. Ansell, it’s important to give your sheets a regular wash using fragrance-free detergent to soften your sheets and prevent further irritation. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to itch-free territory.

We asked a dermatologist to share their hot tips and recommendations for choosing eczema-friendly bedding. Here are the best bed sheets for eczema you’ll want to add to your lineup.

Sijo, Airy Weight Eucalyptus Sheet Set — $95.00

Sizes available: Twin to California king

The eucalyptus fibers in this Sijo Sheet Set harbor the perfect environment against heat, bacteria, and odors. Naturally, eucalyptus fibers are breathable, anti-microbial, and have moisture-wicking capabilities that keep sweat at bay. What’s more, the fibers render these sheets super duper soft and aren’t abrasive against eczema-prone skin. Available in six colors, from forest green to sky blue, this set is all you need for a restful snooze.

Colors: 6

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Cozy Earth, Bamboo Sheet Set — $255.00

Originally $319, now $255

Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Sheet Set looks like it could be straight out of a home decor catalog. Made of viscose-derived bamboo, these oversized sheets are extremely soft and breathable, making them ideal for people with sensitive skin and sweaty sleepers. Included in this kit are a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two oh-so-soft pillow cases that’ll have you hitting the hay as soon as your head touches the pillow.

Sizes available: Twin to split king

Colors: 5

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Eucalypso, Classic Sheet Set — $195.00

Originally $250, now $195

Make itchy skin a thing of the past with these ultra-soft, eucalyptus sheets. These Eucalypso sheets feel cool-to-the-touch and have thermo-regulating abilities. How, you might ask? Well, these sheets are spun from eucalyptus wood that give them its cooling superpowers. Anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic, these sheets will give your eczema a run for its money.

Sizes available: Twin to California king

Colors: 7

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Brooklinen, Luxe Core Sheet Set — $152.00

Originally $169, now $152

These sheets come recommended by Dr. Ansell for people with sensitive skin. “They are 480-count cotton sateen sheets,” making them more gentler and breathable on sensitive skin, she says. As the name implies, these sheets give five-star luxury hotel, so if you’re looking for buttery soft bedding, upgrade to these—you won’t be disappointed.

Sizes available: Twin to California king

Colors: 11

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Boll and Branch, Signature Hemmed Sheet Set — $226.00

Sizes available: Twin to split king

For luxury you can literally feel (and see), we recommend Boll and Branch. “These sheets are incredibly soft and are made of 100 percent organic cotton,” explains Dr. Ansell. They’re unlikely to irritate skin and just get softer with each wash. Buttery, breathable, and made of the highest quality cotton—seriously, what’s not to love about these sheets?

Colors: 9

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Purple, Soft Stretch Sheet Set — $125.00

Originally $139, now $125

Silky smooth, stretchy, and breathable—Purple’s Soft Stretch Sheets are what you’ll want in your bedding arsenal. These sheets are made of a blend of polyester, spandex, and bamboo viscose that make any bed feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud. So soft, it’s like these sheets were hand-woven by angels. It also features an elastic band that’s like a big hug for your mattress, making it easier to make the bed in the a.m.

Sizes available: Twin to split king

Colors: 6

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Charter Club, Sleep Luxe Sleep Set — $106.00

Originally $190, now $106

Charter Club’s Luxe Sleep Set ticks all of the boxes for eczema-friendly bedding. “These 100 percent cotton, 800-thread count sheets feel soft and smooth and get softer with each wash,” says Dr. Ansell. What’s more, these sheets are OEKO-TEX-certified, so you don’t have to worry about your sheets being derived from harmful chemicals. Irritation and redness, we don’t know them.

Sizes available: Twin to California king

Colors: 6

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Welcome to the world of skijoring, or, as one TikTokker puts it, “the wildest sport on six legs.” Skijoring means “to be driven forward” in Norwegian, according to historian Loren Zhimanskova, who—as a practitioner, fan, and community leader of the sport—has taken it upon herself to meticulously catalog skijoring’s origins. Today, it usually involves being “driven forward” by a horse or a dog, and skijoring competitions have become increasingly popular in the U.S. and Canada.

The practice of strapping boards of wood to your feet and getting pulled forward by dogs actually began as a mode of transportation thousands of years ago: It was first recorded by Persian historians in the mountains of Central Asia. Skijoring as a sport originated in the late 19th or early 20th century in Scandinavia, where athletes raced while getting pulled by reindeer. People in parts of Europe including France and Poland also practiced skijoring, but with horses. Horseback skijorers can either work with a partner who rides and reins the horse, or they can even rein the horse themselves. Yep, that means driving a horse while you’re on skis.

Skijoring made its way across the pond in the 20th century, taking root in the Northeast, and eventually gaining popularity in cowboy-friendly areas out west. When a skijor competition takes place, it has the feel of a “winter rodeo,” says Zhimanskova.

“It’s a great community,” says Zhimanskova. “People travel the circuit together.”

That circuit has gotten bigger of late. Zhimanskova runs digital hubs that advertise and keep track of all the races both in North America and internationally, and she helms a consortium of race leaders working to promote the sport. She says there are now around 30 North American races per year—a number that’s tripled over the last decade.

It’s easy to see why social media and photography have hastened the spread: The spectacle of skijoring is a blast to behold. But Zhimanskova thinks more people are participating, too, because there are multiple types of race days. Some are intense two-day competitions featuring obstacle courses and speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, while others are single-day, novice-friendly events.

Novice-friendly, that is, as long as you’re comfortable around horses and on skis. As cool as skijoring looks, you shouldn’t attempt the sport unless you’re familiar with the feeling of skiing, Zhimanskova advises. And even then, make sure to take it slow—trot before you gallop, friends.

The same goes for skijoring with dogs, says Filippo Ricotti, who runs the sport and utility dog gear company Neewa.

“You can catch some speed,” says Ricotti, so “you need to be able to ski comfortably for the safety of the dog and your own safety.”

Ricotti, who is based in Italy, has been skijoring for years in the Dolomites with huskies and a few other breeds. His company Neewa sells skijoring harnesses, leashes, belts, and dog boots.

Dogs won’t pull you with the same intensity as horses, so it’ll be more like cross-country skiing where you’re pulling much of your own weight, with a little assistance from Fido.

It’s best to get some expert guidance before skijoring with a horse for the first time—this is not something you should try on your own. But if you want to attempt skijoring with your dog, Ricotti says it’s doable for advanced skiers, as long as you take it slow and work up to it. Start out running with your dog—like, without snow. Then, you can try rollerblading. If all goes well when winter comes around, and you’re familiar with downhill and cross-country skiing, you can slowly give skijoring a try. Cross-country terrain is best. Make sure you have the right gear, and ensure you’ve got at least 10 feet of distance between you and your dog. But don’t subject your dog to pulling if you are more than three or four times your dog’s weight, which is what Ricotti advises is the maximum load.

Be prepared for a serious core, arm, and leg workout, as well as a major challenge for your agility and your balance, says Zhimanskova. Ricotti says skijoring is a great way for the dogs to get their energy out, and Zhimanskova says horses are into it, too.

“A lot of my friends that have horses say when they’re loading up their horses in the wintertime, the horses know they’re going to a skijoring event and they’re really excited, they get to see their buddies,” Zhimanskova says. “Just like they’re having fun in the summer months, they’re having fun in the winter months, too.”