Life Style

The Internet-Famous Stanley Tumbler Is Worth the Hype – and on Sale

I remember the first time I was introduced to Stanley - not a person, but the drinkware and gear brand that's not-so-quietly taken over social media. I was visiting Hutton Brickyards, a quaint retreat in upstate New York, when my coffee arrived in a giant Stanley thermos that I fell in love with. I was so enamored with the retro-inspired hammertone design that it even made an appearance in one of my few TikTok videos to date. (I'm working on posting more, OK?) If you've spent any time on X (formerly known as Twitter) or TikTok in recent months, then you've seen that the Stanley Tumbler has been the subject of some pretty heated discourse. Viral videos show fans running through Target to buy limited-edition colors, others document households with wall mounts stocked full of the drinkware, and then there are the claims the popular cups contain lead. (Spoiler alert: they don't.) All of the hype has led many - frankly, myself included - to ask earnestly: is the Stanley tumbler really worth all of the internet hype, or is it simply another TikTok fad? When the brand offered to send me the Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler ($20, originally $25) - I knew I couldn't say no. After all, I've seen it splashed all across my TikTok feed and countless times IRL. The bottle is famously massive, coming in at 40 ounces, and has racked up thousands of five-star reviews across the board, not to mention a very passionate fan base (emphasis on "very") that attests it's one of the best innovations to date. Curious about whether it would just become another water bottle in my collection or if it would actually change my life, I put it to the test. Check out my honest review of the Stanley Tumbler ahead. What Makes a Good Tumbler? In my book, the perfect tumbler is one that's durable and designed to hold up well over time, easy to travel with thanks its practical handle, leak-proof (because nobody wants spillage), and also stylish enough that it feels like it elevates your look outside of the house - rather than taking away from it. What I Like About the Stanley Tumbler What don't I like about this Stanley tumbler is the real question. I've had it for about a while now, and it's become my day-to-day companion, which is saying something because I'm the dehydrated one of the friend group. I'm low-key shocked to admit that it's earned a spot on my bedside table in case I wake up thirsty in the night, it spends all day on my desk throughout the day (filled with sparkling water from my apartment building), and I've even been bringing it to Orangetheory classes in the evening. Thanks to this water bottle, I'm confident I'm the most hydrated I've ever been. Despite the tumbler's massive size, it's still portable and practical thanks to its large handle. It even has a narrow base that can fit into your cup holder. (I'm not positive it fits into every cup holder in existence, but it fits in my Mini Cooper's just fine.) One thing you might not realize about this tumbler is that the straw isn't the only way to drink it. You can also twist the top in case you'd rather sip your beverage straight out of the tumbler (which I've done in very thirsty moments). I also love how you can spin the lid and cover the straw opening to prevent spills when you're on the go. Oh, and I can't forget to mention that it keeps drinks cold legitimately all day. The brand says it can do so for up to 11 hours, but I'm convinced it's kept mine colder even longer than that. Sometimes when I take a sip of it in the night, I'm surprised to find that it's still refreshing and not lukewarm like a normal glass of water would be. What's Worth Noting About the Stanley Tumbler One thing worth noting about the Stanley tumbler is that it's not entirely leakproof (I learned this the hard way when I flipped it upside down to test it), but that's not something that's promised by the brand. That might be important to keep in mind if it's a dealbreaker for you. Another thing? It's no stranger to selling out, so if you catch it in stock and want one, consider yourself lucky. Who Is the Stanley Tumbler Best For? This tumbler is best for those who want to stay hydrated without having to refill their water bottle over and over again throughout the day. It's also a brilliant gift idea for the person in your life who needs to drink more water or your zeitgeisty friend who knows all of the trends. I'm not sure I'd run through a Target mob in pursuit of one, but it's definitely incentivized me to drink more water throughout the day. And with all the product's unique colorways and designs, anyone can find a style that's perfectly suited to them. Additional Details It keeps beverages cold for up to 11 hours. This tumbler is dishwasher safe. It's BPA-free and made of 90 percent recycled 18/8 stainless steel. Where Is the Stanley Tumbler Available? In addition to the brand's website, the Stanley tumbler is sold on Amazon, and it just got restocked in plenty of fun colors. You can also find the viral tumbler at Dick's Sporting Goods and REI. Rating: Shop more of POPSUGAR's editor-curated Amazon Big Spring Sale picks. Marisa Petrarca is a contributor for POPSUGAR Commerce and has more than five years of experience writing and editing beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content.
Read MoreThe Internet-Famous Stanley Tumbler Is Worth the Hype – and on Sale

Peloton Bikes Are on Sale, and It Might Be Their Lowest Price Ever

If you've been debating buying a Peloton bike, Amazon's Big Spring Sale may be the perfect time to take the plunge since Peloton bikes are available for an incredible deal. It's been nearly 10 years since the original Peloton bike came out, and you can now snag one for much less than before. When it was first released, the original Peloton Bike retailed at $2,245, and the price has been slowly descending ever since. For one, Peloton equipment and apparel is now on Amazon, and for Amazon's Big Spring Sale, the Peloton Bike ($1,250, originally $1,445) and Peloton Bike+ ($2,100, originally $2,495) are on sale at a deep discount - seriously, you can save hundreds of dollars. This is a pretty big deal, since Peloton doesn't typically have sales on its equipment. Otherwise, if you're curious about the usual cost of the Peloton Bike or Bike+ or you want to consider other options, like rentals, keep reading for the full lowdown on how much a Peloton Bike costs these days. (Here's more on the difference between the Peloton Bike and Bike+, aside from the cost.) Note: All Bike or Bike+ purchases (not rentals) through Peloton offer financing (starting from 0 percent APR with $0 down), include delivery and setup, a 12-month limited warranty, and give you 30 days to change your mind. If you do, the brand will pick up the bike and give you a refund. How Much Is the Peloton Bike? If you buy a Peloton Bike through Peloton's website, you'll pay $1,445. This doesn't come with any extra gear, but it does include an updated seat post. In addition to buying the bike alone, you have the opportunity to buy a bundle or to rent a bike by month. Peloton Bike Rental: $89 per month, with a $150 one-time delivery and set-up fee (cycling shoes included) Peloton Bike Basic: $1,445 (bike only) Peloton Bike Starter Bundle: $1,660 (includes Bike, Peloton cycling shoes, light hand weights, bike mat, and water bottle) Peloton Bike Ultimate Bundle: $1,660 (includes Bike, Peloton cycling shoes, light hand weights, dumbbells bike mat, reversible workout mat, water bottle, three sweat towels, and heart rate band). How Much Is the Peloton Bike+? If you buy a Peloton Bike+ through Peloton's website, you'll pay $2,495 - no accessories included. Peloton offers rentals of the Bike+ as well as refurbished Bike+ devices. Peloton Bike+ Rental: $119 per month, with a $150 one-time delivery and set-up fee (cycling shoes included) Peloton Refurbished Bike+: $1,995 (bike only) Peloton Bike+ Basic: $2,495 (bike only) Peloton Bike+ Starter Bundle: $2,700 (includes Bike, Peloton cycling shoes, light hand weights, bike mat, and water bottle) Peloton Bike+ Ultimate Bundle: $2,900 (includes Bike, Peloton cycling shoes, light hand weights, dumbbells, bike mat, reversible workout mat, water bottle, three sweat towels, and heart rate band). Peloton Membership Costs No matter which Peloton stationary bike you buy, you'll need an All-Access Membership ($44 per month) to the brand's platform to stream classes on your bike's beautiful touchscreen. That membership gives you access to all the content on the Peloton app, including classes with Peloton's top instructors, as well as content exclusively for Peloton equipment. If you're renting, your membership cost is a surprising $0. If you rent either a Bike or Bike+, your monthly rental fee includes an All-Access Membership, so you don't need to pay anything extra. Shop more of POPSUGAR's editor-curated Amazon Big Spring Sale picks. Related: Our Favorite Butt-Sculpting Leggings Are Currently on Sale at Amazon Lauren Mazzo was the senior fitness editor at POPSUGAR. She is a certified personal trainer and fitness nutrition specialist through the American Council on Exercise. Prior to joining POPSUGAR, she worked for six years as a writer and editor for Shape Magazine covering health, fitness, nutrition, mental health, sex and relationships, beauty, and astrology. She graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Journalism and minors in Writing and Honors, with additional studies in gender, sex, and love. http://www.laurenmazzo.com
Read MorePeloton Bikes Are on Sale, and It Might Be Their Lowest Price Ever

This $11 Amazon Find Looks Like the Viral Belt Bag on Your Wish List

I own one of the uber-viral belt bags, and I'll admit: it's worth the hype. It holds just the right amount of stuff, can be worn as a crossbody or belt pack, and is perfect for walks, hikes, travel, and errands. (There's a reason we gave it a POPSUGAR Fitness Award!) Unfortunately, it often sells out completely, and at $38, it may not fit into everyone's athleisure budget. Luckily, there are several near-replicas of the super-popular belt bag on Amazon, and one of the top-rated choices costs about three times less than the original. It's the Telena Belt Bag ($11, originally $14), and it looks just like the real thing. It's even a part of Amazon's Big Spring Sale, so it's more discounted than usual. The bag has a lot of the same features, too. It has a main compartment and three mesh slots for holding valuables secure - including two that are about credit-card size and another that's big enough for your smartphone. The material is water-resistant, and the adjustable straps and bucket allow you to wear it as both a crossbody and a belt bag/fanny pack. It's available in 10 different colorways, from bright orange to trendy beige. Nearly 3,000 Amazon reviewers have given it five stars, praising it for being "stylish and practical," "high-quality," and roomy. As one reviewer writes: "So much can fit inside of the pouch- it's like a Mary Poppins bag and I'm always impressed with how much I can fit in it." Customers report using it for theme park outings, hikes, travel, and in lieu of a purse. One of the only downsides reviewers note is that the main zipper opens maybe a little too much. "My only very minor complaint is the zipper opens very wide so if you have something heavy like your phone in there just be careful when fully unzipping as something could fall out," one customer writes. It's true that nothing will ever really compare to the pricier original - the quality is just unmatched! - but if you're looking for a more affordable belt bag, this Amazon pick should do the trick. Grab one before it sells out, because it very well might. Shop more of POPSUGAR's editor-curated Amazon Big Spring Sale picks. Related: Our Favorite Butt-Sculpting Leggings Are Currently on Sale at Amazon Lauren Mazzo was the senior fitness editor at POPSUGAR. She is a certified personal trainer and fitness nutrition specialist through the American Council on Exercise. Prior to joining POPSUGAR, she worked for six years as a writer and editor for Shape Magazine covering health, fitness, nutrition, mental health, sex and relationships, beauty, and astrology. She graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Journalism and minors in Writing and Honors, with additional studies in gender, sex, and love. http://www.laurenmazzo.com
Read MoreThis $11 Amazon Find Looks Like the Viral Belt Bag on Your Wish List

Should You Bank Your Baby’s Cord Blood? Here’s What the Experts Say

Pregnancy can be a time of great joy and excitement, but it can also be a period of infinitely increased anxiety. Everywhere you look, you're inundated by information about how best to set your new baby up for lifelong health and happiness, and the sheer volume of intel can be overwhelming. One consideration that often comes up - especially in social media ads, if the algorithm is wise to your pregnancy - is whether or not to engage in a practice called "cord blood banking." Cord blood banking refers to the practice of saving and storing blood from the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. That blood contains stem cells that may be used to help treat certain conditions that your baby could develop down the road. That may seem like a huge perk - but cord blood banking is expensive, and some of the therapeutic uses are still theoretical. So is cord blood banking really worth it? It's a question many parents-to-be end up having as their due date looms. So we spoke to experts and put together this primer to help you decide whether or not cord blood banking is right for you and your baby. What Is Cord Blood? You're likely familiar with the umbilical cord, which connects the baby to the placenta in order to provide them with nutrition, antibodies, and oxygen. According to Joanne Kurtzberg, MD, a pediatric hematologist-oncologist at Duke University Medical Center and expert in cord blood therapies, the term "cord blood" refers to leftover blood in the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. This blood is "special" because it contains hematopoietic stem cells, which have the ability to turn into various types of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. These cells are crucial for the formation of blood and the immune system. "Cord blood contains blood stem cells which can be used as a donor for bone marrow (or hematopoietic cell) transplantation," Dr. Kurtzberg says. "Cord blood also contains other types of cells which may be used, in research protocols, to manufacture other therapies to treat cancer or other diseases." The bone marrow and blood of adults also contain these types of stem cells, but those found in cord blood are more desirable for therapeutic use because they're considered "immunologically naive," meaning they haven't been exposed to infections that may make them more likely to attack a transplant recipient's body. What Is Cord Blood Banking? Banking is the collection, processing, freezing, and storage of cord blood. After a baby is born and the cord has been cut, Dr. Kurtzberg says leftover blood from the umbilical cord and placenta can be collected, processed, and frozen away for later use in blood stem cell transplantation. There are two types of banks that collect and store cord blood. Public banks are nonprofits that take in cord blood by donation. The donated blood is then put on a national registry and made available for use by anyone in need. (If you later want to use cord blood for your child, you wouldn't be able to request their own cord blood if it was donated to a public bank.) More often, expectant parents hear about private banks, which are paid to collect individual cord blood for potential personal future use. Since cord blood must be collected within 10 to 15 minutes of a child's birth, banking has to be decided upon prior to giving birth; ideally, you'd begin talking about it with your doctor about three months before your due date, according to the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). You can ask your healthcare provider for bank recommendations, then contact the bank for a cord blood collection kit that will be used by your doctor, nurse, or midwife after delivery. How Much Does Cord Blood Banking Cost? Public banking is free. Private banking, on the other hand, can cost between $1,350 and $2,350 for collecting, testing, and registering the blood. Annual storage fees typically range from $100 to $175 dollars. Private cord blood banking is not typically covered by health insurance; however, if you have a family history of conditions that are treatable with cord blood therapies, you may be eligible for some coverage. What Conditions Can Cord Blood Treat? Cord blood transplants are approved for the treatment of a number of conditions. According to Dr. Kurtzberg, these include certain malignant cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma in children, and a condition called neuroblastoma. Cord blood can also treat certain nonmalignant conditions, including aplastic anemia, a disease where the bone marrow stops working, usually in babies and children born without a functioning immune system; hemoglobinopathies, such as sickle cell anemia or Beta Thalassemia; and certain inherited metabolic diseases in children, such as Hurler syndrome, Krabbe disease, metachromatic leukodystrophy, and adrenoleukodystrophy. In a cord blood transplant, patients are given high doses of chemotherapy or radiation therapy to wipe out their own bone marrow and immune system. "Then they get a transplant, which is an infusion of cells in donor cord blood, and those transplanted cells replace their bone marrow and their immune system," Dr. Kurtzberg says. These therapies have been around for a while - the first cord blood transplant took place in 1988 - so they're tried and tested, Dr. Kurtzberg says. The diseases these therapies treat, however, are generally considered rare, which means the odds of your child being diagnosed with one of them are relatively low. What's more, in many cases, your baby's own blood won't be an appropriate donor source even if they are diagnosed with a treatable condition. "For example, you most likely would not use your child's own blood to treat a blood cancer like leukemia or certain genetic diseases," Dr. Kurtzberg says. "This is because their cord blood contains leukemic cells in the first instance and the same genetic disease in the second case as the blood currently in their body, so if used for a transplant, it would not correct the disease the child is being transplanted for." In other words, the same problem currently found in your child's blood was also present in their cord blood, which disqualifies it for therapeutic use. You would instead need to use donor blood. This may eventually change, as Dr. Kurtzberg says in certain types of gene therapy, the genes in blood stem cells can be corrected to eliminate the issue in question before transplantation. "In those cases, a child's own cord blood could be the best source of cells, but that's still experimental," she says. And one child's cord blood could theoretically be used to treat their sibling or other relative "if the sibling and the sick child are full tissue type matches (HLA match) and if the sibling is healthy," Dr. Kurtzberg says. What Conditions Might Cord Blood Be Used For in the Future? Some of the buzzier, cutting-edge applications for cord blood are still in the process of being researched. "These conditions include cerebral palsy, babies with birth asphyxia, children with traumatic brain injuries, adults with stroke, children with hearing loss, children with type 1 diabetes, and children born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, or basically heart failure at birth," says Dr. Kurtzberg, who adds that you can find a full list of these studies at clinicaltrials.gov. While this research is exciting, and Dr. Kurtzberg herself is involved in a Phase III trial for the treatment of cerebral palsy, she offers an important caveat. "Although there are some interesting results from clinical trials, cord blood has not been approved as a treatment in the United States for any of these conditions, and for the most part, additional clinical trials are needed to confirm early results," she says. It's also unclear whether an individual's own cord blood will be able to be used for treatment, or if donor blood will suffice. Her study on the treatment of cerebral palsy, she says, is actually furthest along in the regulatory approval pathway of any study, and even this treatment is approximately five years away from potential approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). "The others are all in clinical trials at one level or another but are not proven therapies at this time," she says. How Long Is Banked Blood Viable? At present, Dr. Kurtzberg says experts don't know whether or not cord blood banked from a baby in 2024 will be viable for use when that baby is 70 years old; however, current data does show that cord blood that is frozen and stored properly under liquid nitrogen is good for at least 30 years. "There's no reason to think it won't be good longer, but the data we have now supports 30 years," she says. So, Is Cord Blood Banking Worth It? This is the million-dollar, or at least several-thousand-dollar, question - and it doesn't have a straightforward answer. As noted above, your child's own cord blood will not actually be useful to treat a number of the (already rare) conditions for which cord blood transplants have been approved. "I don't know what the exact odds of using banked blood are, but my understanding is that they're kind of negligible," says Leigh Turner, PhD, executive director of the Bioethics Program at the University of California, Irvine, who studies public health ethics and the ethics of cord blood clinics and banks. "When it comes to privately banked cord blood, the number of units used down the road to subsequently treat children who were the source of the umbilical donations is low." Private banking may make sense, however, in families in which one child has a disease that's treatable with cord blood, such as leukemia or sickle-cell anemia; if the new baby is healthy and a donor match for the sibling, the cord blood could be used in the older child's treatment. Even in these instances, however, research shows there is only a 25 percent chance siblings will be a donor match. If you're interested in the potential cord blood has to be used for conditions it's currently being researched for, like cerebral palsy, Dr. Turner is careful to reiterate that these applications have not yet been proven. He feels some cord blood bank marketing materials promoting these therapies can be misleading. "I think these businesses may also be creating a false sense of hope," he says. Dr. Kurtzberg also points out that there is a significant amount of publicly banked cord blood available to be utilized should it be needed by your child. "There are about a million publicly banked cord blood units that would be available to anyone in need of a donor," she says. And for what it's worth, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) actually recommends donating to a public bank, as units of donated blood are 30 times more likely to be used than privately banked blood. Donating to public banks is also an act of service, as those banks are in need of significant donor diversity in order to serve a greater number of patients. With that said, Dr. Kurtzberg and Dr. Turner both say that if you understand the limitations of cord blood therapies and you have the financial means, there's no harm to private banking if it will give you peace of mind. What to Look For in a Private Bank If you do decide to move forward with private cord blood banking, begin by checking to see which banks are accredited by the Association for the Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies and/or the Foundation for Accreditation of Cellular Therapies (FACT). The bank you choose should also be licensed by the FDA (or equivalent agency in another country). These steps can help ensure you find a reputable bank. From there, Dr. Kurtzberg says there are a few things to consider when choosing a specific bank. The first is how much blood that bank stores. This is important because if there is not enough blood stored, you may not have enough stem cells present in that blood to make it useful for treatment. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists notes that banks should collect at least 40mL of cord blood. The second thing to consider, she says, is the freezers and freezing methods used by the bank. "The cord blood should be frozen using controlled-rate freezing and stored in the vapor or liquid phase of liquid nitrogen," Dr. Kurtzberg says. Banks should provide both details up front, but if they don't, you can ask. The third thing Dr. Kurtzberg recommends thinking about is the stability of the business of the bank. "You don't want to bank cord blood and then the bank goes out of business in five years and you don't know what happened to that blood," she says. She suggests looking into how long the bank has been in business and whether it merged or was acquired by another bank at some point. "Parents can also ask the bank staff what their procedure would be if the bank had to close or change ownership," she says. And, of course, googling the name of a bank and checking out the reviews can go a long way toward making sure you find a bank you trust. A Final Word to Expectant Parents Ultimately, Dr. Kurtzberg wants to reassure parents-to-be that if they don't have the means to pay for private banking, they shouldn't feel like they're denying their child of something because, she reiterates, the public supply of cord blood can be accessed by anyone in need. "It's true you can only get the cord blood around the time of birth, so it is a one-time opportunity," she says. "But it's not an essential part of taking care of your child." Erin Bunch has more than 15 years of experience as a journalist and professional writer. Her words have appeared in GQ, The Hollywood Reporter, Well+Good, Women's Health, The Zoe Report, BRIDES, Harper's Bazaar, Los Angeles Magazine, and other outlets.
Read MoreShould You Bank Your Baby’s Cord Blood? Here’s What the Experts Say

This Top-Rated Robot Vacuum Is $600 Off at Amazon’s Big Spring Sale

I've long been a skeptic of the effectiveness of robot vacuums. As impressive as the devices seem, something about the idea of having a self-sufficient robot familiarizing itself with the layout of my apartment and cleaning it on its own never sat right with me. But when I moved into my new home - which, for context, is filled with hardwood floors galore - I found myself vacuuming so often that I finally began to understand the appeal of these smart gadgets. Desperate to find a solution to my weekly cleaning woes, I turned to Amazon and was immediately introduced to the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop ($1,000, originally $1,600) - which, according to reviewers, is truly one of the best smart vacuums that money can buy. Unlike other models, the tool has the capabilities of a vacuum and mop rolled into one, along with a self-emptying charging station that further helps to streamline the process of keeping your floors clean. The smart vacuum has quickly become a staple within my home, and because I'm not in the business of gatekeeping, I decided to break down everything to know about the product ahead - from its typical charge time to how it manages to navigate through even the trickiest corners of your space, without your constant oversight, and more. Better yet, the model is currently on sale at Amazon's Big Spring Sale, which features markdowns across top categories like home, tech, beauty, wellness, and more. Scoop up this bestseller while you still can and shop more of POPSUGAR's editor-curated Amazon Big Spring Sale picks. What I Like About the Roborock S8 Pro Robot Vacuum The better question is, what's not to like? When it's not in use, the robot vacuum can be stored (and charged!) in its base portal, which comes with the purchase of the vacuum. I appreciate that the charging portal is compact and sleek looking, so it doesn't feel like an eyesore in my home space, and it saves me from having to figure out where to store the vacuum itself. The smart device has three easy-to-click buttons on the top of it, including a power button that can kick-start the cleaning process and a home button that will prompt the vacuum to return to its base when the session is over. With a simple click, the vacuum heads out, moving around my apartment space with ease, navigating under tables, and squeezing into even the tightest corners to suck up (or mop up) as much dirt as possible. The device is equipped with a reactive 3D obstacle avoidance technology that can scan the layout of a space, quickly detect objects, and adjust its cleaning path accordingly to ensure it doesn't run into walls, furniture, or even knock over items like chairs or lamps. It's so convenient being able to turn it on while I'm eating dinner or taking a shower, and I know I can leave it to do all of the hard work without having to monitor it or worry that it might damage something in my home space. I also appreciate that unlike other smart vacuums, this model boasts up to 180 minutes of runtime - meaning that as long as it's fully charged, I never have to worry about it running out of battery while it's moving throughout my home, and I can ensure my floors get completely cleaned in a single session. Plus, the device only takes four hours to charge fully, so I can easily charge it throughout the night or while I'm working, and it will be ready to go again at a moment's notice. What's Worth Noting About the Roborock S8 Pro Robot Vacuum Best For? As advanced as it may be, this Roborock model definitely doesn't come cheap. With a whopping price tag of $1,600, this certainly isn't the kind of product you can buy on a whim or spontaneously add to your digital shopping cart - it requires a serious investment. Given all of its highly impressive smart capabilities and the fact that it combines the traits of a vacuum and mop into one model, it's well worth the splurge in my opinion - especially if you're someone who's in the market for a smart vacuum and want something that will completely transform the way you clean your home. That being said, as much as I love the tool, I often still find myself reaching for my 3-in-1 Bissell vacuum to tackle quick cleanups around my apartment space, as it gets the job done with the same efficiency and quickness - and that model only cost me a total of $30. Additionally, if you prefer quiet vacuums to loud ones, this model might not be the right buy for you. With so many unique capabilities packed into one compact frame, it makes sense why this vacuum is on the louder side. Personally, I haven't found it to be too disruptive or distracting while going about my day-to-day chores and activities. However, it's definitely not the kind of vacuum that can quietly work in the background while you're on a Zoom call, which is something to keep in mind if you're looking for a product that's truly unnoticeable. Who Is the Roborock S8 Pro Robot Vacuum Best For? If you're someone who values having a clean home space but often find yourself short on the necessary time to give it a thorough cleaning (because life), this robot vacuum is genuinely a life-changing investment. Again, the device comes equipped with a reactive 3D obstacle avoidance and infrared technology that can recognize objects in its pathway (like walls, furniture, etc.) and move around it on its own, so you can turn the vacuum on and let it freely clean your space. It also features smart capabilities that enable users to connect it to smart home systems like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, as well as app-enabled features that allow you to control and monitor the device completely from the Roborock app. It's truly the perfect solution from streamlining your life and making the upkeep of your home feel much more manageable. While I still find myself pulling out my vacuum or Swiffer mop on occasion to deal with quick cleanups and messes, this vacuum has cut down on the total time I spend deep-cleaning my apartment each month, which is a win for anyone that finds themselves struggling to keep up with a busy schedule. Additional Details The all-in-one home-cleaning device has the capabilities of both a vacuum and a mop. The smart gadget has a dual rubber brush system that enables it to suck up debris, hair, dust, and more from hardwood floors and carpets more quickly than other models. It's also equipped with a VibraRise 2.0 Mopping System, which provides a wider mopping zone and can clean up more concentrated messes like soda or food stains. The tool also has several different modes that you can set it to, including: auto emptying mode, mop washing and drying mode, suction and water flow adjustment, and more. Unlike other smart vacuums, this device can be fully charged within only four hours. Plus, users can get up to 180 minutes of runtime in one clean, providing ample time to tackle apartments, small home spaces, and more. Where Is the Roborock S8 Pro Robot Vacuum Available to Shop? This smart vacuum is available to shop at Amazon and Roborock ($1,600). Rating: Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on POPSUGAR Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.
Read MoreThis Top-Rated Robot Vacuum Is $600 Off at Amazon’s Big Spring Sale

Apple AirTags Give Me Peace of Mind While Traveling – and They’re Now on Sale

If you've scrolled social media recently, you've likely heard about all the turmoil going on at airports all across the globe. From staffing shortages to flight delays and cancellations, traveling this year has been turbulent, to say the least. I recently went on vacation in Europe, and though I'm typically a carry-on-only type of traveler (last summer I went around the US for three weeks with just a carry-on suitcase), there were too many events, destinations, and climates on this trip, so a checked bag was required. Though we didn't have any issues getting to Europe from the US, it was impossible not to notice the swarms of people and mountains of bags piled up at the airport while we waited at baggage claim. On the way home, I panicked, and ordered Apple AirTags ($83, originally $99) for my whole family. Because these track your whereabouts in real time, they made our experience getting home so much less stressful, and I'd recommend them to anyone traveling right now. Better yet, they're also currently on major sale for Amazon's Spring Sale Event. What I Like About Apple AirTags I thought these little devices were brilliant. Each AirTag is tiny; all four fit in the palm of my hand, as shown above. They took about 30 seconds to set up; all you need is your iPhone close by, and they pair automatically. I bought a four-pack because my family had four checked bags, and I named each one for the colored luggage tag on each bag, so I would know which was which. Using the Find My app that's installed on all iPhones, I was able to track our bags from check-in until takeoff, and again when we landed back in the States. I saw them all together in the European airport, and I was even able to track, based on an airport map, that they moved with us when we had to change planes due to an electrical issue. Sure, I was a little paranoid, but it made me feel that much better after hearing about almost everyone I knew losing their luggage. When we landed, I was able to see one of the Apple Airtags immediately at our airport, which gave me peace of mind knowing the others would follow shortly, which they did. They're affordable and easy to use; I'll be taking them with me on every trip. Image Source: Apple What's Worth Noting About Apple AirTags There is an important distinction to be made about Apple AirTags compared to other tracking devices; when something is far away, like for example, at the bottom of an airplane, the technology relies on the Find My Network from all kinds of other Apple devices to help pick it up. For a traveler, this means that if your item was left at an airport, it will likely pick up a signal, but if it's in cargo, where there theoretically aren't lots of other Apple devices turned on, it might not locate. Once it gets in better range, where there are more devices around it, it will pick up the location. Who Apple AirTags Are Best For These devices are best for people who travel a lot, or who are always misplacing things like their keys or wallet. They're also best for people with Apple devices, as they pair automatically with your iPhone. Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / India Yaffe Additional Details If you buy Apple AirTags from the Apple store, they can be delivered to your home or business for a small fee. I paid $8 extra and had them sent directly to my house; they arrived in less than two hours, and saved me so much stress. You can also name each AirTag anything you like, and use a corresponding emoji, so you'll always know which is which. Where Apple AirTags Are Available You can find Apple AirTags at the Apple website, as well as Walmart and Target. Rating: Shop more of POPSUGAR's editor-curated Amazon Big Spring Sale picks. India Yaffe is the former associate editor of POPSUGAR Commerce. Related: This Amazon Adapter Is a Must-Have for Travelers - and It's On Sale for Prime Day
Read MoreApple AirTags Give Me Peace of Mind While Traveling – and They’re Now on Sale

Apple AirTags Give Me Peace of Mind While Traveling – and They’re Now on Sale

If you've scrolled social media recently, you've likely heard about all the turmoil going on at airports all across the globe. From staffing shortages to flight delays and cancellations, traveling this year has been turbulent, to say the least. I recently went on vacation in Europe, and though I'm typically a carry-on-only type of traveler (last summer I went around the US for three weeks with just a carry-on suitcase), there were too many events, destinations, and climates on this trip, so a checked bag was required. Though we didn't have any issues getting to Europe from the US, it was impossible not to notice the swarms of people and mountains of bags piled up at the airport while we waited at baggage claim. On the way home, I panicked, and ordered Apple AirTags ($83, originally $99) for my whole family. Because these track your whereabouts in real time, they made our experience getting home so much less stressful, and I'd recommend them to anyone traveling right now. Better yet, they're also currently on major sale for Amazon's Spring Sale Event. What I Like About Apple AirTags I thought these little devices were brilliant. Each AirTag is tiny; all four fit in the palm of my hand, as shown above. They took about 30 seconds to set up; all you need is your iPhone close by, and they pair automatically. I bought a four-pack because my family had four checked bags, and I named each one for the colored luggage tag on each bag, so I would know which was which. Using the Find My app that's installed on all iPhones, I was able to track our bags from check-in until takeoff, and again when we landed back in the States. I saw them all together in the European airport, and I was even able to track, based on an airport map, that they moved with us when we had to change planes due to an electrical issue. Sure, I was a little paranoid, but it made me feel that much better after hearing about almost everyone I knew losing their luggage. When we landed, I was able to see one of the Apple Airtags immediately at our airport, which gave me peace of mind knowing the others would follow shortly, which they did. They're affordable and easy to use; I'll be taking them with me on every trip. Image Source: Apple What's Worth Noting About Apple AirTags There is an important distinction to be made about Apple AirTags compared to other tracking devices; when something is far away, like for example, at the bottom of an airplane, the technology relies on the Find My Network from all kinds of other Apple devices to help pick it up. For a traveler, this means that if your item was left at an airport, it will likely pick up a signal, but if it's in cargo, where there theoretically aren't lots of other Apple devices turned on, it might not locate. Once it gets in better range, where there are more devices around it, it will pick up the location. Who Apple AirTags Are Best For These devices are best for people who travel a lot, or who are always misplacing things like their keys or wallet. They're also best for people with Apple devices, as they pair automatically with your iPhone. Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / India Yaffe Additional Details If you buy Apple AirTags from the Apple store, they can be delivered to your home or business for a small fee. I paid $8 extra and had them sent directly to my house; they arrived in less than two hours, and saved me so much stress. You can also name each AirTag anything you like, and use a corresponding emoji, so you'll always know which is which. Where Apple AirTags Are Available You can find Apple AirTags at the Apple website, as well as Walmart and Target. Rating: Shop more of POPSUGAR's editor-curated Amazon Big Spring Sale picks. India Yaffe is the former associate editor of POPSUGAR Commerce. Related: This Amazon Adapter Is a Must-Have for Travelers - and It's On Sale for Prime Day
Read MoreApple AirTags Give Me Peace of Mind While Traveling – and They’re Now on Sale