• Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg faced a Congressional committee hearing on Wednesday, where lawmakers asked him about everything from user data scandals to housing discrimination.
• One line of questioning targeted Facebook's content moderation practices, which rely on contracted workers who have complained of PTSD and other psychological effects of policing the most horrific content uploaded by users: Murders, suicides, hate speech, and more.
• When asked if he would personally spend an hour each day moderating the worst offenders, Zuckerberg demurred. "I'm not sure that it would best serve our community for me to spend that much time on that, but I spend a lot of time looking at this content," he said.
  
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is a billionaire several times over thanks to his work at Facebook.

The tens of thousands of contractors that Facebook employs through a third-party service are not billionaires, and many are making as little as $30,000 per year to police the site for the prohibited, and typically horrific, content that gets uploaded every minute.

That much was revealed in a report from The Verge earlier this year, which highlighted the poor working conditions of those contractors as they removed child pornography, gruesome deaths, and other such content uploaded by users to Facebook. In addition to the difficult job they have, these moderators are said to suffer from difficult working conditions.

"According to one report I have, and this is straight out of an episode of 'Black Mirror,' these workers get nine minutes of supervised wellness time per day," Rep. Katie Porter said to Zuckerberg on Wednesday during a Congressional hearing. "That means nine minutes to cry in the stairwell while someone watches them."

Before Zuckerberg could push back, Porter asked, "Would you be willing to commit to spending one hour per day for the next year watching these videos and acting as a content monitor, and only accessing the same benefits available to your workers?"

Read more: Mark Zuckerberg calls reports of Facebook content moderators suffering PTSD after watching videos of people dying 'a little overdramatic'

Without answering the question, Zuckerberg pointed to the "good benefits" all content moderators employed by Facebook have. But Porter cut him off.

"Mr. Zuckerberg I'm looking for a yes or a no. Would you be willing to act as a content monitor? To have that life experience?," she said.

"I'm not sure that it would best serve our community for me to spend that much time," he said. "But I spend a lot of time looking at this content." Porter cut him off once again. "Are you saying you're not qualified to be a content moderator?" she asked.

"No Congresswoman, that's not what I'm saying," he responded. The Congresswoman had one more response: "Okay then you're saying you're not willing to do it."

SEE ALSO: Ohio congresswoman rips into Mark Zuckerberg, calling it 'appalling and disgusting' that he failed to answer questions about Facebook's civil rights and diversity problems

SEE ALSO: Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg should try spending one day at Facebook's nightmarish content moderation center in Tampa, Florida

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Jeff Bezos is worth over $160 billion — here's how the world's richest man makes and spends his money

• A good raincoat needs to be functional, but it also needs to look nice so that you'll actually want to wear it when bad weather hits.
• The North Face Laney II Trench, with its mix of classic trench coat vibes and functional rain jacket features, accomplishes just that.

Nothing says "I'm a put-together adult who does my taxes on time every year" like owning a dedicated jacket for rain. It takes real foresight to check the weather before you leave the house and decide to grab a raincoat instead of taking your chances on your beloved leather jacket that will dissolve at the mere hint of humidity.

Raincoats and rain jackets have a reputation for being either visually unappealing or about as functional as a sheet of tissue paper. But that doesn't have to be the case. There are stylish options that will keep you warm and dry without making a huge dent in your wallet.

When shopping, it's important to keep your lifestyle in mind. If you're the outdoorsy type, you probably don't want a cutesy clear rain slicker or anorak designed for city life. Likewise, if your idea of "being in nature" is walking down a tree-lined street from the office to the subway, you don't need something with lots of high-performance materials and features.

Or, you can always opt for a raincoat that blends the best of both worlds! No matter what, your new favorite topper is bound to be in our guide.

Here are the best women's rain jackets and raincoats in 2019:

• Best overall: The North Face Laney II Trench Raincoat
• Best for travel: Joules Right as Rain Packable Printed Raincoat
• Best for outdoors activities: Patagonia Torrentshell Jacket
• Best for work: Everlane City Anorak
• Best transparent jacket: Hunter Boots Original Smock Coat
• Here are also the best rain boots to buy.

Updated on 10/23/2019 by Remi Rosmarin: Updated prices, links, and formatting.

The best raincoat overall

The North Face Laney II Trench Raincoat is the ideal mix of classic trench coat and sporty rain gear. 

There's nothing like a rainstorm to put a damper on an outfit right? (Sorry.) You leave the house feeling pretty cute, but you're frazzled and soggy by the time you arrive at your destination. What you need is a raincoat that works for just about any occasion: The North Face Laney II Trench Raincoat. It's sportier than the average trench but still looks fashionable.

The jacket is made of the North Face's durable, waterproof HyVent fabric and it's "lightly insulated" to ensure you stay warm on chilly, windy days. It features an attractive silhouette with a hood, hidden zipper, and my personal favorite detail: adjustable tabs on the sides that cinch your waist in and create a loose hourglass shape. It's ideal for when you don't want to look like a paper bag just because it's raining.

With 316 reviews on Nordstrom, The North Face Laney II Trench Raincoat is a hit with shoppers. One five-star reviewer says the jacket "[i]s lightweight but actually very warm (would be too warm for summer rain, but just right for fall/spring)."

Another fan called it "perfect for layering on a rainy day" and added that "you can dress it up or down pretty easily."

Pros: Waterproof, lined, comes in four neutral colors, has a hood, cinches at the waist, interior "media pocket" to protect electronics

Cons: Will be too warm for spring and summer temperatures in many places

Buy The North Face Laney II Trench Raincoat at Backcountry for $144.97 (originally $179.95)

The best rain jacket for travel

Joules' Right as Rain Packable Hooded Raincoat won't take up a lot of room in your luggage and comes in a range of cute prints that won't ruin your vacation outfit.

You never realize how much stuff you use in a day until you're trying to distill your life down to the size of a carry-on. A rain jacket isn't always a vacation essential, but if you're traveling to a drizzly locale — Portland, Oregon? London, England? — it's not a bad idea to bring one along.

The Right as Rain Packable Hooded Raincoat by Joules is a great option. It's unlined and easy to fold down so it fits into even the smallest empty space in your luggage. Thanks to an array of cute prints from florals to dogs, you're almost guaranteed to find one that fits your style. You can finally kiss ruining your vacation Instagrams with an ugly raincoat goodbye.

This topper comes recommended by experts at Best Products, PopSugar, and CNN and it has a 4.5-star rating on Nordstrom. People love the fit (it features a waist-defining drawstring) and the fact that it's lightweight and easy to pack on-the-go.

Pros: Foldable for easy packing, cute patterns, under $100

Cons: Unlined so you'll need to layer in cold weather

Buy the Joules Right as Rain Packable Hooded Raincoat on Amazon from $45 and up

The best rain jacket for outdoors activities

Patagonia's Torrentshell Jacket is tough enough to withstand harsh weather conditions, but it's not bulky.

If you live for the great outdoors, you need outerwear that will have your back on all kinds of adventures — and in all weather. Patagonia's Torrentshell Jacket is an expert-approved rain jacket that will keep you dry on long hikes, without any added bulk to weigh you down.

The jacket is made of the brand's sturdy (and cleverly named) H2No fabric, which is both waterproof and breathable, two characteristics that aren't always compatible. The jacket has plenty of additional features that make it stand out. The neck area is lined with soft microfleece designed for both comfort and to "[protect] waterproof/breathable barrier," there's an oversized adjustable hood with a visor and handwarmer pockets that zipper closed.

The Wirecutter named the Patagonia Torrentshell its favorite raincoat for daily use, specifically because of the roomy hood. "Unlike cheaper jackets with hoods that don't fit your face, the Torrentshell's is cavernous, keeping precipitation off your nose, chin, and hair," says Wirecutter writer Eve O'Neill.

The publication also notes that "[t]he fit is generous, which makes this coat ideal for layering when it gets cold. And, if you work up a sweat, armpit zips let you vent heat," making this a great pick for varied temperatures or outdoor activities.

Pros: Sturdy fabric, breathable lining and zip vents at the armpits, large hood to keep you extra dry

Cons: You'll want to layer in really cold temperatures

Buy the Torrentshell Jacket at Patagonia from $90.03

The best raincoat for work

For those times when you really don't want to look like you're wearing a raincoat, check out The City Anorak by Everlane.

Think of The City Anorak from Everlane as your non-raincoat raincoat. It's a simple polyester anorak with a hood and two pockets that comes in three muted colors: black, surplus green, and navy.

You don't have to wait for a rainy day to wear this jacket, but you certainly could. While perhaps not ideal for a torrential downpour or freezing cold temps (it's not fully waterproof and is unlined), this is a great option for the everyday commuter who wants to stay mostly dry while heading to the office or an evening out with friends. It's the perfect "April showers" coat.

The style is just as cute as a regular jacket, with the added bonus of protecting your outfit from precipitation. And the best part? It's only $88. The City Anorak has a 4.5-star rating on Everlane based on 872 reviews. It's also a hit with experts, too — Best Products and PopSugar are both fans of the Everlane anorak.

Joanne Goddard from Cup of Jo told New York Magazine's The Strategist, "[the Everlane City Anorak] is my absolute favorite because it has a flattering silhouette, cozy hood, and comes in three colors."

Pros: Under $100, stylish silhouette, oversized hood, lightweight fabric good for transitional seasons

Cons: Unlined and not fully waterproof

Buy The City Anorak at Everlane for $88

Read our review of the ReNew Anorak

The best transparent rain jacket

The transparent Hunter Boots Original Smock Coat is adorable, durable, and waterproof.

See-through rain jackets are iconic, but they aren't always the most practical. Experts agree that the Hunter Boots Original Smock Coat is the exception.

I've wanted a transparent raincoat for basically as long as I can remember, but I've always been a little wary. They look cool, but would they actually do the job as well as their more opaque counterparts?

Enough people online have gushed about this version from Hunter Boots, called the Original Smock Coat, that I feel confident it won't disappoint. Buying a rain jacket from the brand that makes fan favorite wellies seems like a pretty safe bet.

The Original Smock Coat is made of waterproof vinyl and features a hood and drawcords at the waist and neck. Despite its transparent design, the jacket really is completely waterproof. It even has welded seams to make sure water doesn't seep into the coat from the outside.

There are a few color options, but my personal favorite is the clear white, which looks like a fashion-forward poncho.

The Original Smock Coat appears on a number of "best raincoat" roundups, most notably at Redbook, Best Products, and The Strategist. "I love that this raincoat is sheer, so you can still see your outfit underneath," Caroline Maguire of Shopbob told The Strategist.

Pros: Waterproof, sheer design, good hood, multiple colors

Cons: Expensive

Buy the Hunter Boots Original Smock Coat on Amazon for $69.10-$218.50 (price varies by size and color)

Check out the best umbrellas and rain boots you can buy

The best umbrellas you can buy

A rainy day can ruin your plans, your outfit, and your mood, but with a great umbrella in your hands, rain need not put a damper on the day.

You're sure to find an umbrella or two on our list that will help keep you dry during the next rainstorm. The only issue is whether or not you'll remember to keep one close by. 

Here are the best umbrellas you can buy:

• Best umbrella overall: Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella
• Best golf umbrella: G4Free Automatic Double Canopy Golf Umbrella
• Best heavy duty umbrella: BLUNT Metro Travel Umbrella
• Best ultra-compact umbrella: LifeTek FX1 Windproof Travel Umbrella

The best women's rain boots you can buy

Rain boots don't have to be ugly. We did the research and testing to find the best rain boots that are both good looking and functional.

Here are the best rain boots you can buy:

• Best rain boots overall: Sperry Top-Sider Saltwater Rope Emboss Neoprene Rain Boots
• Best ethically made rain boots: Everlane Rain Boots
• Best lightweight rain boots: Sam Edelman Tinsley Rain Boots
• Best rain boots for serious rainfall: Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots
• Best rain boots that aren't rubber: Timberland Women's Nellie Lace Up Utility Waterproof Boots
• Best rain boots for wider calves: UGG Sienna Boots
• Best luxury rain booties: Aquatalia Tilly Weatherproof Booties

• If you've been looking for the best undershirt for managing your sweaty pits, then the search is over.
• The American-made Thompson Tee features a unique and effective "sweat guard" design that makes it the best undershirt you can buy for protecting your nice shirts from unsightly perspiration.

If you regularly wear button-up shirts, then good undershirts are a must. Wearing an undershirt is one of the best ways to maintain and protect your nice shirts, particularly your dress shirts, from sweat and deodorant, which can discolor the fabric and wear it out over time. By creating a barrier between your sweat and the underarms of your button-up, undershirts also help to ward off the dreaded "wet pits" look.

Unfortunately, like many other everyday clothing items, a lot of guys treat undershirts as an after-thought. If you're looking for a better way to stay comfortable and protect your nice shirts, then you've found the right place. Before we get into our picks, however, here are some quick guidelines to follow when selecting an undershirt that's right for you:

• Keep it fitted. Your dress shirts should be trim, not baggy and blousy, and so it stands to reason that you don't want big, billowy undershirts, either. Many brands today are offering slimmer modern cuts for their clothing, and undershirts are no exception. Go with something more tailored or even opt for snug-fitting stretch undershirts which hug your torso like a glove.
• Avoid white. White is probably the most common color for undershirts. It's also probably the worst. We've all seen it: The guy wearing a white or blue dress shirt with his white undershirt sleeves shining through like the sun. This is because white is a high contrast color that shows up very easily under other materials. Play it safe and keep it gray. This low-contrast shade will blend in much more easily so you're not getting those unsightly "undershirt lines" under your dress shirt sleeves.
• Go with a V-neck. People have a lot of opinions about men sporting V-necks for casual wear, but for undershirts, it's pretty much a requirement – especially if you're going sans necktie, which you'll probably do fairly often. Having the top your undershirt peeking out behind your dress shirt collar screams "my mom made me wear a button-up shirt today," but a V-neck cut keeps it nicely out of view below the neckline. If you already have a bunch of crew-neck undershirts, relegate them to casual wear or toss 'em.

Keeping these guidelines in mind, we've done the research and smoked out the best undershirts for men that you can buy today. Undershirts are fairly straightforward pieces of clothing, but we've made sure that our top picks cover a range of different styles, fabrics, and price points so you can find the right one for your tastes and budget.

Here are the best men's undershirts you can buy:

• Best undershirt overall: Thompson Tee
• Best multipack of undershirts: David Archy
• Best undershirt for casual wear: J. Crew

Updated on 10/18/19 by Caitlin Petreycik. Updated prices, links, and formatting. 

The best men's undershirt overall

With soft and breathable natural fabric, a trim cut, an under-arm sweat guard, and all-American construction, the Thompson Tee V-neck is the last undershirt you'll ever need to buy.

Arguably the main reason to wear an undershirt is to prevent your sweaty pits from showing through your nice button-up shirt by putting a layer between your skin and your clothing. Managing sweat while looking nice is an ever-present challenge in the summer (especially in a suit), but even in the cooler months, your body can get pretty warm when you're indoors wearing long-sleeved shirts and suit jackets.

If this is a particularly big problem for you, then even a normal undershirt may not be enough. Enter the sweat guard from Thompson Tee. Its unique design is purpose-built to target the biggest problem area for perspiration, the under-arms, with a second layer that serves as a "sweat pad" to put some more material and distance between your skin and your nice shirt.

The trim cut is form-fitting and long enough to tuck, too, while the V-neck is suitably deep so it won't be peeking out from under your shirt collar.

Another thing we like about the Thompson Tee is that it's woven of soft combed cotton, with the under-arm "sweat pads" made of bamboo-derived rayon with a touch of spandex for stretch and flexibility. This is a plus, as natural fibers like cotton will almost always breathe better than synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon.

Even better, the Thompson Tee is 100 percent made in the United States. You'll pay for it, though. The Thompson Tee undershirt rings in at around $30 on Amazon, but it's worth it. If sweat is a problem and you're looking for the "holy grail" of undershirts, then this is probably the last one you'll ever need to buy.

Pros: Made in America, woven of soft combed cotton with a bamboo-derived rayon sweat guard, the unique design is highly effective at managing under-arm sweat, it's got a great form-fitting cut

Cons: It's fairly expensive

The best men's undershirt multi-pack

If our other picks cause sticker shock, these soft, lightweight, no-nonsense undershirts from David Archy are an excellent and super-affordable alternative.

One of the general rules of menswear is to avoid synthetic fabrics. While this is good advice, it mostly applies to larger, nicer outer garments such as shirts, slacks, business suits, sweaters, and so on. For clothing items like these, synthetics are typically used to cut costs rather than for any particular qualities.

Although synthetic fabrics have a bad rap in the menswear scene, they do confer some advantages for certain pieces of clothing. Synthetics are durable, they dry quickly, and they're useful for garments where you want some stretch such as socks or athletic wear.

Modal in particular is a semi-synthetic fabric well-known for its softness and elasticity. Modal is actually a form of rayon, which is made from cellulose in contrast to more common polymer-based synthetics like nylon. It's also more breathable, with these characteristics combining to make it the perfect candidate for undershirts like these ones from David Archy.

David Archy undershirts are made of a soft micro-modal fabric with a touch of elastane. Micro-modal is silkier than plain modal fibers — it's even softer to the touch than cotton — and offers moisture-wicking properties that manage sweat and let it dry quickly instead of soaking up moisture. It's thin and light without being transparent, although it's best to tumble dry these and then hang them up damp to air-dry rather than drying them with heat.

The V-neck is suitably deep and the David Archy shirts are slimmer than most other multi-pack undershirts from popular brands like Hanes, the cuts of which tend to be a bit boxier than most, but these undershirts don't have much of a taper in the body. You may want to consider sizing down if you're between sizes. The sleeves are also nice and slim-fitting so you don't get a bunch of material bunching up around your arms under your dress shirt.

Pros: Made of a breathable and soft micro-modal fabric, the cut is fitted and long enough to stay tucked, and they're a solid value 

Cons: The fit is nothing special, and the micro-modal shouldn't be put in a hot dryer cycle

The best men's undershirt that you can wear casually

J. Crew's knack for classic yet modern style, great quality, and nice materials makes this heather gray V-neck T-shirt perfect for doing double-duty as an undershirt and a casual tee.

Undershirts are typically specifically designed to be worn under a collared shirt, but they're still essentially just tees. This means that, so long as it's styled right, there's no reason you can't pop on an "undershirt" with a pair of jeans for a simple casual outfit — and if you're the type that doesn't like to own a mountain of clothes, then a few good tees that can do double-duty as undershirts are nice to have in your closet.

As one of the premier brands of casual men's style, it should come as no surprise that J. Crew made it into our list. If Brooks Brothers is the king of American preppy style, then J. Crew might be the king of American casual, with its wide lineup of clothes that perfectly thread the needle between modern and classic styling.

This heather gray V-neck tee lives up to J. Crew's simple-yet-stylish design ethos. It features a tailored cut that's not baggy or restricting. It's slim enough for an undershirt and it's made of soft combed cotton.

The V-neck is deep enough that you can safely undo a button on your collared shirt, but it's not cut too low to be suitable for casual wear. It's a no-nonsense, well-made, nicely-styled staple tee that'll get a lot of play in your rotation whether you're wearing it under a dress shirt or just pairing it with jeans or chinos.

The J. Crew heather grey V-neck T-shirt rings in at around $25, which may seem slightly pricey for a single undershirt. But given that this soft and versatile shirt can also serve as one of your everyday casual tees, it's not a bad value. J. Crew regularly runs sales and offers promo codes, too, so wait for a discount and order a couple to score them even cheaper.

Pros: It's made of soft and durable combed cotton, the fit is slim enough for both casual and undershirt wear without being restricting, the V-neck is sufficiently deep for wearing under a collared shirt without being too low to wear by itself, and it's a good value (especially when on sale)

Cons: It's cut shorter in the body than dedicated undershirts

Check out our other menswear buying guides

The best suits you can buy

For your go-to workhorse suit, you simply can't beat a single-breasted, two-button classic style charcoal gray suit. The Brooks Brothers 1818 charcoal suit combines historic American-made quality with iconic English flair, and it's easily the most versatile suit you'll ever wear.

Here are our top picks for the best suits:

• Best overall: Brooks Brothers 1818 charcoal suit
• Best linen suit: J Crew cotton-linen suit
• Best wool suit: Indochino windowpane suit
• Best retro suit: Charles Tyrwhitt double-breasted suit
• Best tuxedo: Indochino Hampton tuxedo

• Meghan Markle had a sweet moment on Tuesday night as she insisted on hugging the presenter who tried to greet her with a curtsy. 
• The Duchess of Sussex was attending the One Young World Summit in London, where she was greeted by founder Kate Robertson on stage at Royal Albert Hall. 
• Markle insisted on hugging Robertson, who she has known since joining the charity in 2014. 
• It was Markle's first public appearance since she and Prince Harry opened up about struggling with fame in the documentary "Harry & Meghan: An African Journey," which aired in the UK on Sunday. 
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

From the ongoing rumors of a rift in Prince Harry and Prince William's relationship to the intense attention on her own painful words about life as a royal, it has not been an easy week for Meghan Markle. 

But the Duchess of Sussex had a lighthearted moment on Tuesday night as she insisted on hugging a presenter who tried to greet her with a curtsy. 

Markle had just walked onto a stage in front of more than 2,000 people for the One Young World Summit's opening ceremony at Royal Albert Hall in London. 

A video posted to the official @sussexroyal Instagram account showed the moment Kate Robertson, one of the founders of the nonprofit, began to dip into a curtsy to greet the duchess.  

But Markle had already walked onstage with her arms outstretched, preparing to embrace Robertson, who she has known since joining the charity in 2014. 

The duchess appeared to shake her head "no" as Robertson began to curtsy, instead pulling her up to complete the hug. 

Read more:Meghan Markle got emotional in a rare candid interview where she said she's struggling to deal with the fame

It was a sweet moment for Markle, who was attending her first public appearance since her and Prince Harry's ITV documentary, "Harry & Meghan: An African Journey," aired in the UK on Sunday. 

Both the duchess and Prince Harry were incredibly candid in their interviews for the film, speaking at length about their struggles with the intense attention that has followed their relationship. 

Markle revealed that when she first began dating Prince Harry, some friends warned her to end the relationship. 

"My British friends said to me, 'I'm sure he's great, but you shouldn't do it, because the British tabloids will destroy your life,'" she recalled. 

"And I very naively — I'm an American and we don't have that there — said, 'What are you talking about? That doesn't make any sense! I'm not in tabloids!' I didn't get it." 

Markle also revealed that although she "really tried to adopt the British sensibility of a stiff upper lip," she has struggled with the ongoing scrutiny. 

"It's not enough to just survive something, right?" she said. "That's not the point of life. You've got to thrive, you've got to feel happy." 

Shortly after the documentary aired, it was reported that Queen Elizabeth II and Prince William were concerned for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. 

There were also rumors that Markle and Prince Harry might take a sabbatical, or even a permanent departure, from their royal roles. 

Read more:The Queen and Prince William are reportedly worried about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 

But Markle appeared to put that behind her, at least briefly, as she stepped out on Tuesday night. 

The duchess was all smiles and looked glamorous in a long purple $49 Aritzia dress that she previously wore while pregnant with baby Archie back in January. 

And the summit was the perfect place for Markle to step back into the spotlight after an especially difficult month. 

The duchess has been working with One Young World since 2014, two years before she started dating Prince Harry, when she was named a Counsellor at the 2014 Summit in Dublin and spoke to the young attendees about equality and women's rights. 

After she became the Duchess of Sussex, Markle was allowed to maintain her ties with the nonprofit, which has since partnered with the Queen's Commonwealth Trust. 

"It was very difficult for Meghan to close the chapter on her previous passions, so she's been excited to be able to join One Young World again this year in London," a friend told Vanity Fair this week. 

"Inspiring young people is so important to her and she's been able to tie her Vice-Presidency of the Queen's Commonwealth Trust into a really impactful program with One Young World, a charity that has been dear to her heart for more than five years."

• Read more:
• Meghan Markle says her friends warned her not to date Prince Harry because 'the British tabloids will destroy your life'
• Meghan Markle rewore a $49 dress from her pregnancy for her first public appearance since her emotional documentary aired
• How the royal family would change if Prince Harry and Meghan Markle gave up their titles and quit forever
• How Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and the rest of the royal family will celebrate Archie's first Halloween

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: This is the shortest route for a road trip across the US to see 50 national landmarks

• With a great string trimmer, you can cut crisp lines near fences, trees, and edge beds and obliterate weeds.
• We've included different string trimmers that run on plug-in power, batteries, or gasoline, so you can choose which is best for your needs.
• The DeWalt 20V Max Lithium Ion XR String Trimmeris our top pick because it's as powerful as many gas-powered weed and yard trimmers but it's also lightweight, thanks to its battery.

If you take a quick look into my backyard, you'll see a generally well-maintained property with healthy grass, flowers blooming in the spring, tomatoes and cucumbers aplenty in the summer, and a few ugly black scuff marks marring the bottom of one panel of our otherwise lovely white fence. Those marks were caused by yours truly when I pushed the lawnmower too close to the fence in an attempt to save time while mowing last July. What should I have done instead? Yeah, you guessed it: Used a trimmer. The great irony here? At the time I did not own just one lawn and weed trimmer ... I had two.

Over the years, I've used more than a half dozen different brands of string trimmers, and I'm known as a pretty good edger in some parts. A bit of haste last summer notwithstanding, I know the primary value of a trimmer is the precision it offers. With a reliable weed- and lawn-trimming tool in your hands, you can make short work of all sorts of weeds and can even eradicate brambles, thorns, ivy, and other tougher types of flora.

You can also use your trimmer to mow swaths of lawn with ease, cutting near fences, around tree trunks and bushes, and even near flowers and edible plants, removing only the grass you want without damaging any other plant life or property around your yard. As for those crisp edges you'll create along the sidewalk, driveway, patio, and beds, why, they'll be the talk of the block. With some practice, anyway — initially, you'll probably cut some pretty funny looking lines. I know I did.

Whether you are already an old hand with a trimmer and are looking for an even more powerful tool or you are shopping for your first-ever weed and lawn trimming device, we've got you covered. We've included different string trimmers that run on plug-in power, batteries, or gasoline, so you can choose which is best for your needs. One final bit of advice before you buy one of our picks: always wear safety glasses or some kind of protective eyewear when you use your string trimmer.

Here are the best string trimmer and weed wackers you can buy:

• Best string trimmer overall: DeWalt 20V Max Lithium Ion XR String Trimmer
• Best low-cost string trimmer: Black & Decker 2-N-1 Electric String Trimmer
• Best gas-powered string trimmer: Ryobi 2-Cycle Gas Straight Shaft String Trimmer
• Best battery-powered string trimmer: Greenworks 80V 16-Inch String Trimmer
• Best commercial-grade string trimmer: Husqvarna 17-Inch Straight Shaft String Trimmer

Updated on 10/23/2019 by Lisa Sabatini: Updated prices and links.

The best string trimmer overall

The DeWalt 20V Max Lithium Ion XR String Trimmer powers through thick, tough weeds and overgrown grass with as much force as many gasoline-fueled trimmers, but it has a battery and weighs less than nine pounds.

The sheer power of the DeWalt 20V Max Lithium Ion XR String Trimmer is reason enough to buy this tool, but the fact that you can count on it to last for years sure helps justify the rather high price. I've owned many DeWalt tools and they are still kicking to this day.

This trimmer is powered by a 20-volt, five-amp lithium-ion battery that packs plenty of punch, whirling the dual cutting lines around in a 13-inch swath that will easily clear grass, weeds, thorns, and more. The tool can be operated at a high-speed, full-power setting for cutting tougher materials or it can be run at a lower speed for lighter work and for better battery life. Yes, this trimmer costs four times more than other electric options, but it will outperform and outlast them, too.

With nearly 900 reviews posted on Amazon at the time of this review, the DeWalt 20V Max Lithium Ion XR String Trimmer has a four-star average rating with customers. One owner said he was "thoroughly impressed" with the trimmer's capabilities and battery life, while another reported it being "easy to handle" and "working perfectly" for his residential landscaping needs.

A WorkShopAddict review said he was "amazed by the run time" of this trimmer between battery charges, and called it "very light at 8.5 lbs."

Pros: Light but powerful, dual speed operation, lasts for years

Cons: Rather expensive option

The best low-cost string trimmer

The Black & Decker 2-N-1 Electric String Trimmer might cost less than you'd pay for a meal at a fancy restaurant, but it's perfect for most residential trimming needs.

I've used a Black & Decker trimmer for years, and every time I have light to moderate trimming or edging needs that are within the reach of an extension cord, it's the tool I choose. Truth be told, it's not this exact trimmer, but that's the case only because my eight-year-old tool device has yet to break down.

While this trimmer isn't the best choice for seriously overgrown yards or for clearing dense underbrush, for edging lawns, clearing common weeds, and cutting grass near flowers, trees, fences, or in those patches the mower can't reach, it's a fine choice. It's also a trimmer that's amazingly affordable.

A plug-in trimmer has one distinct disadvantage, which is, of course, the simple fact that you need to be connected via an extension cord to a power outlet. That means less freedom of motion and less convenience of use, as you can't use the tool where you can't plug it in.

However, the fact that you don't need to lug around a battery or a gasoline motor significantly reduces the weight of the tool, making the 5-pound Black & Decker 2-N-1 Electric String Trimmer a great choice for seniors, anyone with strength or mobility limited by injury or illness, or for anyone who just doesn't want to lug around a heavy trimmer. 

In a write-up from LivingHorticulturally, a reviewer called it a "featherweight tool" that is ideal for "trimming hard to reach areas" of a property that a mower can't access.

Pros: Great low price, lightweight and nimble, easily converts from trimmer to edger

Cons: Not suitable for tougher jobs

The best gas-powered string trimmer

The Ryobi 2-Cycle Gas Straight Shaft String Trimmer is quite powerful and relatively affordable, which are both things most Do-It-Yourselfers will appreciate in a tool.

The Ryobi 2-Cycle Gas Straight Shaft String Trimmer probably isn't the ideal trimming tool for a professional gardener or landscaper, but for the casual DIY property care guy or gal, it's an ideal choice. With a two-stroke, 25 cubic centimeter engine, this capable trimmer delivers more than enough power to slash through thick grass, pernicious weeds, and to cut edges down into turf, mulch, or packed soil.

A proprietary "zip start" carburetor makes firing up this tool quick and easy without a lot of repeated yanking on a starter line, and an easy-to-load head makes replacing broken trimmer line fast and simple, too. As for the line, it can accommodate a thick and durable 0.095-inch line thickness, whereas many similar tools max out at 0.08. This trimmer is pretty loud when operating, but it's also a reliable tool that's more than worth its price.

With nearly 1,200 reviews posted on Home Depot's website, the Ryobi 2-Cycle Gas Straight Shaft String Trimmer has a commendable 4.4-star average. A gentleman named Steve said his Ryobi trimmer "ran like a Swiss watch," never once giving him any complications. Another user said he was "very impressed with the power and usability" of the trimmer.

A review from TopTenReviews called the Ryobi 2-Cycle Gas Straight Shaft String Trimmer a "good choice for most yards" thanks to its "wide cutting path" and powerful motor.

Of course, there are downsides to a gas-powered trimmer. While it is powerful, you will have to purchase fuel and it makes a lot of noise. And because of emissions, it's not a choice for the environmentally conscious or people sensitive to pollution.

Pros: Good price for good tool, plenty of power for most jobs, wide cutting swath

Cons: Heavy at more than 12 pounds, fuel costs, pollutes

The best battery-powered trimmer

An almost unmatched 80-volt battery powers the Greenworks 80V 16-inch String Trimmer, but it's still priced to fit most budgets.

The Greenworks 80V 16-inch String Trimmer operates with power that equates to a 32 cubic centimeter gasoline combustion engine. That means it's super powerful for an electric tool. It also costs a good deal less than the other battery-powered trimmer on our list and is in fact right in the median price range for all the tools we're recommending. So why isn't this powerful lawn and weed trimming tool our top pick? Well, along with being super powerful, it's also way heavy.

At 16 pounds, the Greenworks 80V 16-inch String Trimmer will be outright too heavy for some people and will weigh enough to tire others out after extended use, which is indeed possible given its 45-minute run time per battery and 30-minute battery charging time. But when operated by folks with enough brawn to heft this tool, there won't be a blade of grass, a bramble, or a weed that doesn't tremble to hear its electric whine.

One customer loved that the "batteries last more than [he] expected" even with heavy use, while another said that thanks to the Greenworks 80V 16-inch String Trimmer, he had "no regrets about going over to the battery [powered] side" of lawn tools.

A writer from ProToolReviews said this trimmer "has the power to run 0.095-inch line" and was among "the quietest" powerful trimmers their team tested.

Pros: Exceptional power for battery trimmer, good price for good quality, broad trimming range

Cons: Very heavy tool

The best commercial-grade string trimmer

The Husqvarna 17-inch Straight Shaft String Trimmer is a commercial-grade trimmer at a homeowner's price point.

The Husqvarna 128LD 17-inch Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer isn't a steal, but given the power and durability of this tool, it's still a fair deal. That power comes from a 28CC two-stroke engine that can whip 0.095-inch line around at thousands of RPM. The fair deal aspect is bolstered by the fact that your Husqvarna 128LD 17-inch Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer will last for years and years even with regular use.

At just under 11 pounds, this trimmer isn't all that heavy, but it's not a featherweight, either. But given its capabilities, it's weight is actually pretty impressive. This trimmer cuts a 17-inch wide swath and its motor can be affixed to a pole saw, pruner, or sweeper attachment as well. So with a few accessory purchases, the base motor of the Husqvarna 128LD 17-Inch Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer becomes an all-in-one property maintenance dynamo.

More than 600 buyers have posted reviews on Amazon as of the time of this writing, and the Husqvarna 128LD 17-Inch Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer enjoys a 4.1-star average rating. A buyer named Michael loves that this gas trimmer "starts easily" and can "tackle everything thrown at it." Another reviewer says it's simply "the best trimmer [he] ever owned."

A product tester from Backyard Boss called the Husqvarna 128LD 17-Inch Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer a powerful tool "from a trusted brand" that has a "large easy grip handle" and plenty of reach thanks to its long shaft.

Pros: Powerful and durable, wide cutting swath, works with multiple accessories

Cons: Expensive, emissions

Check out our other gardening gear guides

The best electric lawn mowers you can buy

Electric lawn mowers are ideal if you have minimal storage space and don't want to deal with the hassle of storing gasoline and oil. Electric mowers tend to weigh much less than their gas-powered counterparts, so they can be easier to transport and use.

We picked our favorite electric lawn mowers based on a number of factors, including versatility, power, battery life, features, and overall performance. They're available at a variety of price points, so you should be able to find something that works for your budget and needs.

• Best electric lawn mower overall: EGO Power+ 20-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower
• Best electric mulching lawn mower: DeWalt 20-Inch 20V Cordless Lawn Mower
• Best corded electric lawn mower: Earthwise 20-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower
• Best budget electric lawn mower: Greenworks 20-Inch 12-Amp Corded Lawn Mower
• Best electric riding lawn mower: Ryobi 38-Inch Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower

The best gardening tools you can buy

For gardeners, having a good collection of gardening tools makes it easier and more enjoyable to spend time working the land. Here are the best tools for maintaining a garden or yard.

Here are the best gardening gloves you can buy 2019:

• Best pruners: Felco F-2 Classic Hand Pruner and Fiskars Pruning Snip
• Best gloves: Exemplary Gardens Rose Pruning Gloves
• Best thorn stripper: Barnel Thorn Stripper
• Best gardening hoe: Bond Culti-Hoe with Telescoping Handle
• Best shovel and spade: Fiskars Shovel and Fiskars Spade
• Best lopper and shears: Tabor Tools Bypass Loppers and Fiskars Pruning Shears
• Best pruning saw: Corona RazorTOOTH Pruning Saw
• Best coiled hose: Water Right Professional Coil Hose
• Best edge chopper and weeder: Garden Weasel Edge Chopperand Fiskars Weeder
• Best rake and leaf scoops: Gardenite Lawn Rake and ReLeaf Leaf Scoops

The best gardening gloves you can buy

If you spend a lot of time in the garden, you need a good pair of gardening gloves. We've poured over expert reviews to find the best ones.

To protect yourself from dirt, thorns, chemicals, and other irritants; you need a good pair of gardening gloves.

Here are the best gardening gloves you can buy 2019:

• Best overall: Atlas Showa NT370 Nitrle Gloves
• Best leather gloves: StoneBreaker Gardening Glove
• Best for comfort: Bionic Women's Relief Grip Gardening Gloves
• Best for rose gardening: Exemplary Gardens Rose Pruning Gloves
• Best for kids: Wells Lamont Kids Work Gloves with Safety Cuff
• Best for hand digging: Garden Genie Gloves
• Best for a snug fit: Foxglove Original Gloves

The best garden hoses you can buy

If you've got plants to water, a car to wash, or a sprinkler to connect so the kids can splash around this summer, then you're going to need a good garden hose.

Here are the best garden hoses you can buy in 2019:

• Best garden hose overall: Craftsman Premium Rubber Garden Hose
• Best lightweight garden hose: Water Right 400 Series Slim & Light Garden Hose
• Best coiled hose: Orbit 26380 50-Foot Coil Hose
• Best low-cost garden hose: Beaulife Steel Garden Hose
• Best irrigation hose: Melnor Flat Soaker Garden Hose

• Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez grilled Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg during his congressional testimony Wednesday, and he struggled to come up with responses to her questions.
• Congresswoman from New York asked Zuckerberg questions regarding fact-checking political advertisements on the site and who is approved to be a third-party fact checker.
• Other politicians have criticized Facebook's fact-checking policies when it comes to political ads, like 2020 presidential candidates Sen. Elizabeth Warren and former Vice President Joe Biden.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez grilled Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg during his congressional testimony Wednesday, and he struggled to come up with responses to her questions.

The congresswoman from New York asked Zuckerberg questions regarding fact-checking political advertisements on the site, which has faced criticisms from other politicians like 2020 presidential candidates Sen. Elizabeth Warren and former Vice President Joe Biden.

President Donald Trump reportedly spent $1.6 million on advertising on Facebook with misleading and debunked claims about former Vice President Joe Biden in relation to the whistleblower scandal in which both politicians are entangled. Facebook did take down one of Trump's ad, but only because he called Biden a "b---h," which violated the platform's policy on profanity.

The social media site confirmed earlier this month that these ads were allowed to run, and that in most instances political ads would not be subject to fact-checking.

"Posts and ads from politicians are generally not subjected to fact-checking," according to Facebook's policy. "In evaluating when this applies we ask our fact-checking partners to look at politicians at every level."

"There will be some instances where a false or partly false rating from our fact-checking partners will affect politicians," Facebook's policy continues. "When a politician shares a specific piece of content - i.e., a link to an article, video or photo created by someone else that has been previously debunked on Facebook - we will demote that content, display a warning and reject its inclusion in ads."

Read more:Facebook announced that it will not pull down or fact check posts made by politicians

Watch a clip of the testimony below:

SEE ALSO: Mark Zuckerberg personally made the decision that Facebook would keep running political ads, even though the ads were weaponized in 2016

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NOW WATCH: All the ways Amazon is taking over your house

• There's nothing worse than a dirty window, cloudy mirror, or dirt-spattered windshield. Everyone needs a good glass cleaner to keep those surfaces clean.
• We used more than a dozen different glass cleaners to find the best ones, including natural glass cleaners, ammonia-based cleaners, and cleaners for hard-water stains.
• Windex Original Glass Cleaner still reigns supreme because it cuts through grime, doesn't leave streaks, and doesn't cost much.

A thorough window cleaning is one of the more thankless tasks on the household chore list, but fortunately, it's one you only have to complete a couple of times per year. To prevent the build-up of stubborn hard water stains on windows, thorough cleaning in spring and fall should do the trick. As for the shower door, that's going to require much more frequent cleaning. So, too,- will mirrors that are regularly exposed to humidity. On close examination, it's amazing how dirty glass surfaces can get, really. Amazing ... and disheartening, unless you have the best glass cleaners at your disposal.

We've tested several glass cleaners over the years, and they all essentially perform the same task: They help you clean glass. Our choices are differentiated not by their efficacy as much as by the unique properties. One is designed to preserve all the helpful microscopic organisms that share your home's microbiome with you and your family, another features an all-natural corn-based solvent, and another is almost as cheap as the dirt it will help remove.

We're sure at least one of these glass cleaners will be a fit for your needs, and in fact, maybe you'll choose to use a couple. Keep in mind that proper glass cleaning technique can be as important as the glass cleaner you're using. If you are cleaning windows with paper towels or rags, make sure to switch out the dirty ones for clean ones regularly to avoid simply moving the dirt around on the window.

Ideally, window, shower door, auto glass, and even mirror cleaning involves a glass cleaner, a squeegee, and a couple of sponges. You should sponge on the cleaner, then use the squeegee to remove as much of the stuff as possible using a downward back and forth S-shaped pattern. Then get the corners and any patches you missed with a clean sponge. Now on to our top picks for the best glass cleaner you can buy.

Here are the best window cleaners you can buy:

• Best glass cleaner overall: Windex Original Glass Cleaner
• Best natural glass cleaner: Method Natural Glass and Surface Cleaner
• Best glass cleaner without ammonia: Glass Plus Glass Cleaner
• Best glass cleaner for hard-water stains: Bio Clean Hard Water Stain Remover
• Best health-conscious glass cleaner: Aunt Fannie's Glass and Window Vinegar Wash

Updated on 10/23/2019: Updated prices and links.

The best glass cleaner overall

Windex Original Glass Cleaner cuts through grit and grease with ease thanks to its time-tested active ingredient ammonia-D.

Windex Original Glass Cleaner is a classic example of the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" maxim. The stuff just works. It does exactly what it's supposed to, creating clear, streak-free glass that is cleaner-looking and largely free of harmful bacteria. People have been cleaning windows, shower stalls, glass shelves, and more using Windex for generations. 

Not only is Windex Original effective, it's also affordable. In fact, it's the second cheapest choice on our list. It's also a surprisingly versatile cleaner that's gentle enough for use on eyeglasses and even on many types of screen, like that of your TV or laptop. Don't use it on touchscreens, though, and for any sensitive application like these, it's best to spray the cleaner onto a cloth, not directly onto the surface in need of cleaning.

Insider Picks senior editor Malarie Gokey uses Windex to handle tough glass cleaning jobs, and it always works like a charm with just a few spritzes and minimal elbow grease.

Do note that while a highly effective cleaner, Windex's "Ammonia-D" formula isn't the safest substance known to humankind. Which is to say, don't get this stuff in your eyes, nose, or mouth, and wear gloves if you have to clean more than one mirror or a few panes of glass, as it's not great for your skin, either.

In a customer comment from Viewpoints, Windex Original Glass Cleaner was hailed as an effective cleaner on "anything that is glass," from windows to doors to mirrors to shelving and more. It was even described as working well "in the spring after windows have been left uncleaned [sic] all winter long."

Pros: Effective even on stubborn grime, low cost, trusted for years

Cons: Ammonia can be dangerous if mishandled

The best natural glass cleaner

Method Glass and Surface Cleaner is almost entirely made using ingredients sourced from plants, so it's safe to use around people, pets, and food.

Method Glass and Surface Cleaner is not 100% natural, but it uses mostly natural ingredients. The "chemicals" you'll find listed on the bottle include potassium citrate, which Method derives from corn sugars, and ethanol, derived from sugar beets.

Method Glass and Surface cleaner isn't misleading you about its multi-surface capabilities, either. This stuff works well on glass, but it's also great for other hard surfaces, including granite, quartz, and tile. It is equally effective whether used on windows, countertops, walls, and more. The fresh mint scent is pleasant and even invigorating, too. 

For eco-friendly folks, the bottles are made from 100% recycled plastic and are 100% recyclable. Guides editor Malarie Gokey also uses this Method cleaner to wipe down less stubborn stains that don't require the aid of Windex. It's also great for cleaning a number of tile surfaces in her home.

With more than 150 reviews posted on Target, Method Glass and Surface Cleaner has a commendable 4.3-star rating at the time of this writing. One satisfied buyer said, "I really like this glass cleaner. It works well. I don't see any streaks on my bathroom mirror after I'm done using it, and I haven't noticed a smell of any kind."

A writer from Good Housekeeping said Method did a fine "job cleaning glass" and "other test surfaces," but did note occasional streaking issues.  

Pros: Effective on myriad surfaces, safe and natural formula, pleasant scent

Cons: Leaves occasional streaks

The best glass cleaner without ammonia

Glass Plus Glass Cleaner is a versatile and effective cleaning product with many applications, plus, it's affordable.

As for efficacy, Glass Plus Glass Cleaner is more than adequate for most household and light commercial glass cleaning needs. As it's free of the harsh ammonia featured in other glass cleaners, it can be safely used on a wide variety of materials, including plastics, fiberglass, vinyl Plexiglas, and many more. You can even use this stuff on washable wallpaper without worrying about it corroding the surface.

While Glass Plus doesn't cut through stubborn grime, grease, or stains quite as effortlessly as certain harsher products, it's great for those light, frequent cleanings or for dealing with one-off messes, like a toddler's handprint or a countertop spill. And again, that price. You can use squirt after squirt of the stuff and not worry about breaking your household cleaning budget.

With more than 200 reviews on Amazon, Glass Plus Glass Cleaner has a solid 4.3-out-of-5-star rating. A product tester from WiseBread said Glass Plus is effective on a variety of "indoor and outdoor surfaces, like glass, mirrors, stove tops, and stainless steel and granite surfaces."

Pros: Very low price tag, works on myriad surfaces, ammonia-free formula

Cons: Not as effective as other options for stubborn grease or stains

The best glass cleaner for hard-water stains

Hard-water stains are notoriously difficult to remove, but Bio Clean Hard Water Stain Remover is a commercial-grade product that makes short work tough buildup.

Hard-water stains are those whitish-grayish spots, patches, and streaks that you probably have marring the surface of your shower doors, the side windows of your car, and likely the exterior panes of residential windows, too. These so-called stains are actually built-up mineral deposits of calcium, lime, and rust. When you try to clean a hard-water stain with a standard cleaning agent, it will often appear to be remedied right after the cleaning, but it will reveal itself again as soon as the surface dries. You can't just wipe them away, you need to break them apart.

And that's what Bio Clean Hard Water Stain Remover does: It breaks up rust and mineral deposits so they can be wiped away once and for all. Despite the fact that this is a powerful cleaner with a tough job to do, it's a remarkably safe product. In fact, it is made with ingredients that are non-toxic and eco-friendly, so you don't have to feel guilty as it swirls down the drain of the shower or into the gutter as you wash your car.

Also, it can remove that scaly buildup from much more than glass alone. Bio Clean Hard Water Stain Remover can clean tile, porcelain, steel, polished stone, and much more. It won't damage decorative fixtures or sensitive surfaces like plastics or high-shine metals.

More than 1,400 people have left reviews on Amazon about Bio Clean Hard Water Stain Remover, and it has a fine 4.3-star average rating. One user calls it "pure magic" and relates trying all sorts of products on his home's hard-water stains, never finding one effective until this "extremely highly recommended" cleaner.

Just note that for best results, you may have to attack stubborn stains several times, and there will be some scrubbing.

Pros: Breaks up stubborn mineral deposits, safe for use on multiple surfaces, eco-friendly formula

Cons: Multiple applications often required

The best health-conscious glass cleaner

Aunt Fannie's Glass and Window Vinegar Wash cuts through grease and grime, but it doesn't kill off all the helpful microorganisms with which we share our home.

You know that not all microscopic organisms are bad, right? In fact, many of the minuscule little creatures with which we share our homes, offices, and even our own bodies are beneficial to the point of being a necessary part of our microbiome. So you know what is bad? Killing them all off. If you use a harsh, chemical-heavy glass cleaner every time you clean your windows, counters, mirrors, and more, then you may be slaughtering billions of little critters that were actually playing an important role in your life.

So use Aunt Fannie's Glass and Window Vinegar Wash and leave that microbiome intact while still cutting through smudges, lifting dirt, and leaving no streaks behind. This cleaner can be applied directly to glass surfaces in liberal quantities, then wiped down with a sponge, squeegee, or cloth or paper towel. It will leave the glass looking crystal clean to the naked eye and still safe for microorganisms for whom a microscope would be required.

Also, as it's made using vinegar, a sugar-based surfactant, and natural essential oils, it's perfectly safe for use around all people, even infants and those with compromised immune systems, as well as around pets, plants, and foodstuffs.

I can tell you from plenty of firsthand experience with this very glass cleaner that this stuff works. You might need a few more spritzes of Aunt Fannie's Glass and Window Vinegar Wash than you would with Windex, but it works just fine when sprayed on thick.

A writer from UnboundWellness said Aunt Fannie's Glass and Window Vinegar Wash had a "pleasant smell" that was not "overpowering" and that it left the "windows streak free."

Pros: Protects microbiome organisms, free from harsh chemicals, streak-free finish

Cons: Not effective on stubborn stains or buildup

Check out our other guides to the best cleaning products for your home

The best bathroom cleaning products you can buy

Your bathroom always needs a good cleaning, and having the right tools on hand is essential if you want it to be squeaky clean. We've tested tons of cleaners to find the best bathroom cleaning products you can buy. 

Our bathroom cleaning product recommendations include:

• Best wipes: Clorox Disinfecting Wipes
• Best toilet cleaner: Clorox ToiletWand Disposable Toilet Cleaning System
• Best tub cleaner: The Bucko Soap Scum & Grime Cleaner
• Best scrub brush: OXO Good Grips All-Purpose Scrub Brush
• Best mold remover: Mold Armor Instant Mold & Mildew Stain Remover
• Best shower cleaner: Method Daily Shower Spray
• Best squeegee: OXO Good Grips All-Purpose Squeegee
• Best all-purpose cleaner: Puracy Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner
• Best cleaning cloths: Zwipes Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
• Best mops: Swiffer SteamBoost Steam Mop and Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop

The best dish soap you can buy

A top-quality dish soap has a pleasant scent if it has a scent at all, cleans the most stubborn pots and pans, and is eco- and hand-friendly. Puracy Natural Liquid Dish Soap is our top pick because it's effective on grease, safe for the environment, and gentle on your hands.

You might also like the Dawn Dish Soap Platinum Dishwashing Liquid, the Seventh Generation Dish Liquid, the Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, and the J.R. Watkins Liquid Dish Soap.

The best paper towels you can buy

Paper towels are one of the most underappreciated commodities of modern life. they help out with everything from kitchen cleaning to car washing to personal hygiene to baby care. You might not think about them often, but you'd miss them if they were gone. The Bounty Select-a-Size Paper Towels are our top pick because they're absorbent and tough, yet soft enough for delicate tasks.

You should also consider the Seventh Generation Unbleached Paper Towels, the Plenty Ultra Premium Paper Towels, and the Kleenex Hand Towels.

The best disinfecting cleaners you can buy

The world can be a germy place and as we interact with others, we share bacteria. Some bacteria are actually good for our body systems but other, viral strains like measles, flu, and colds can be dangerous. And, fungal infections like athlete's foot, while not life-threatening, are pretty uncomfortable.

To help combat against them, there are products available that do a great job of killing bacteria. Disinfecting cleaners come in many forms and you are sure to find one that fits your needs. After research and testing, these are our top picks to disinfect nearly every surface and fabric in your home.

• Best disinfecting cleaner for kitchen counters: Purell Professional Surface Disinfectant Spray
• Best disinfecting cleaner for laundry: Lysol Laundry Sanitizer Additive
• Best disinfecting spray for nonwashable goods: Lysol Disinfectant Spray
• Best disinfecting wipes: Clorox Ultra Clean Disinfecting Wipes
• Best disinfecting cleaner for toilet bowls: Method Antibacterial Toilet Cleaner

The best cleaning products for kitchen and laundry appliances you can buy

How can you demand that your appliances perform at their best if they are dirty? Expecting fresh, clean clothes from a smelly washer or sparkling plates from a dishwasher crusted with hard water minerals is a fool's errand. All you'll get is frustration and chronic disappointment.

Luckily, there are easy-to-use products available that can restore appliances back to their prime. Here are the best cleaning products you can buy for kitchen and laundry appliances.

• Best appliance cleaner overall: LemiShine Multi-Purpose Appliance Cleaner
• Best dishwasher cleaner: Finish In-Wash Dishwasher Cleaner
• Best garbage disposal cleaner: CLR Garbage Disposal Foaming Cleaner + Freshener
• Best washer cleaner: LemiShine Washing Machine Cleaner
• Best oven cleaner: Easy Off Professional Max Fume Free Oven Cleaner
• Best glass stovetop cleaner: Weiman Cooktop Cleaner Max

• Zac and Katie Ruiz, a New Mexico-based couple, have been living in a 300-square-foot tent with their children for two years.
• The tent, built in just eight weeks, features a kitchen, two beds, a dining area, and a composting toilet. The tent runs on solar power, and it has an outdoor shower.
• Zac told Insider that the tent has no central heating or air, so the family has to bundle up in jackets and sweatpants full time during the colder months.
• The Ruiz family also travels in a small RV for much of the year, exploring the country.
• Their home was featured in Brent Heavener's book "Tiny House." You can read more about it on Amazon, or follow the Ruiz family on Instagram.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories. 

Meet Zac and Katie Ruiz, a New Mexico-based couple who have been living in a 300-square-foot tent with their young children for two years.

Zac and Katie lived in an apartment in California during the early years of their marriage. As they started to have children, they realized they wouldn't be able to afford the lifestyle they wanted there because of the high cost of living, as Zac told Insider.

They decided to go to Katie's hometown in New Mexico when she became pregnant with their second child. After they'd been living in New Mexico for about a year, Katie's mom told them Katie had an acre of land to her name. 

Immediately, they wanted to move onto it so they could "break the cycle" of just working to pay for rent, Zac said.

The couple wanted to move onto the land as soon as possible, and a tent was the quickest and most affordable way to get there.

They couldn't afford to build or buy a home, and after doing some research, they decided a tent was the cheapest and most functional solution for their family.

"That's $1,500 a month we don't have to spend if we can get on this property," Zac said of their decision to live in a tent.

They bought a cheap camper to get on the property as quickly as possible, and after they had been on the land for about four months, they moved into the tent. 

The 300-square-foot tent, which features a main level and a raised loft, took about eight weeks to build.

The space only has what the family needs. You can see the sleeping area, kitchen, and dining area when you enter.

The tent also features a four-foot by eight-foot closet on the wall near the kitchen, and a four-foot by three-foot bathroom with a composting toilet on the other side of the tent.

"We evolved our mindset of working with less," Zac said of the minimalist approach. 

Katie and Zac's bed is in the middle of the tent.

The king-sized bed sits on a raised platform, giving them much-needed additional storage.

Artwork and greenery float on the wall behind the bed, making the space feel homey. 

The raised loft was designed as the Ruiz children's bedroom.

Although they have their own bed, the kids typically sleep with their parents, both for comfort and because of issues with temperature.

The tent has no central heating and air, so it can be below freezing in the winter. The family wears jackets and sweatpants inside during the cold months, and it definitely keeps them warmer to sleep together.

"Most people probably couldn't deal," Zac said of the irregular temperature in the tent. "I always joke, 'People like nature until nature kicks in.'"

Solar energy fuels the tent, though they don't require much electricity.

One set of panels is enough for the family. "Our daily power needs are pretty small," Zac explained.

The panels fuel LED lights, a television, a DVD player, their phone chargers, a small fridge, and an electric stovetop that they use to make a lot of their meals.

The glass wall in the front of the tent allows the family to see the property while they relax indoors, though they can cover the entrance with a curtain for privacy.

The glass wall provides natural light to the space.

LED bulbs bring additional light to the tent, and the decorative twinkly strings demonstrate they haven't sacrificed aesthetic appeal for space.

The small kitchen has a burner Zac uses for cooking. It takes up the most power of any electronic item they have in the tent.

The kitchen also features a small refrigerator, though it requires less power.

There's no running water anywhere in the tent, which can make cooking and cleaning difficult.

"Washing dishes isn't the easiest thing," Zac said."But it's still really doable. It maybe just takes a few minutes longer here and there." 

The tent is in a rural suburb, so the family can have access to city amenities and a slower, more natural life at the same time.

Although the tent looks isolated, it's in a city, which they say gives them access to grocery stores and other retailers they need. 

But because their neighborhood is more rural, they get the benefits of nature as well.

Zac said they see deer and other animals on their property frequently. 

The family uses the table for cooking, playing, and doing work.

Zac and Katie both work from home, so they use the table for their jobs frequently. 

Zac makes handcrafted lighting and decor, which is featured throughout the tent, and Katie sells a variety of essential oil products.

Zac said he doesn't see tent life as challenging, though it can be inconvenient at times. Only having a composting toilet and an outdoor shower can be challenging.

The outdoor shower gives the family some flexibility on bathing, but for the most part they "outsource" their showers.

"We do anything from pools when we go swimming to gyms," Zac said of how the family cleans themselves.

They'll also bathe at family and friends' homes. "We're like shower nomads," he joked.

Zac thinks the biggest benefit of tent life is time.

Zac said the tent has given him time. "Time to do whatever I want. Time to hang out with the boys, time to have hobbies and actually do them."

His advice to people thinking about downsizing is to just do it. "I don't think you're gonna regret it even if you come to a point where you don't want to do it anymore. I think you're gonna enjoy the experience."

The Ruiz family also travels frequently, living in an even smaller RV when they're on the road.

Zac estimates they spend about one third of their year on the road. They approach their road trips with the same up-for-anything attitude they do tent life.

"Having two kids in a small space isn't easy, but having two kids in a big house isn't easy either," as Zac puts it.

The family has been in the tent for two years now. "We're even more minimal than we were when we started," Zac said.

"Our main goal is just family and time and not working too much and just priorities in life," Zac told Insider.

Their home was recently featured in Brent Heavener's "Tiny House," a book of inspiration for those interested in tiny living.

Heavener told Insider that "Tiny homes aid in your pursuit of freedom. They're the tool."

Zac estimates the family will probably live in the tent for another two to three years.

They have loose plans to build a slightly larger cabin on the property, but it would still be small. 

"We realized we don't need anything big. If we could build a 600-square-foot home, that would be perfect."

You can learn more about the Ruiz family's tent adventures on their Instagram.

• Read more:
• Before-and-after photos show how a woman transforms vintage RVs into chic vans fit for glamping
• This luxurious tiny home was built out of a trailer for traveling, but looks like an upscale apartment
• 17 photos that show the ingenious ways tiny house owners store their belongings
• This $55,000 floating tiny home can be assembled in one day

This is a preview of a research report from Business Insider Intelligence. To learn more about Business Insider Intelligence, click here. Current subscribers can log in and read the report here.

• Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a healthcare delivery method that uses technology to monitor patient health outside of a traditional clinical setting.
• RPM devices are becoming smarter and more affordable.
• This is presenting device manufacturers that traditionally targeted hospitals and clinics with new potential revenue channels as they begin offering their services to consumers.

After holding out as the last industry yet to feel the rapid impact of digitization, healthcare’s digital transformation is finally underway.

One of the tools US health systems and hospitals are turning to improved outcomes and reduced costs is remote patient monitoring (RPM) technology. This type of patient care extends the reach of physicians, enables a constant relationship between patients and caregivers, and offers providers a continuous stream of real-time health data.

And now, RPM devices are becoming smarter and more affordable. That's presenting device manufacturers that traditionally targeted hospitals and clinics with new potential revenue channels as they begin offering their services to consumers.

What is remote patient monitoring (RPM)?

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a healthcare delivery method that uses technology to monitor patient health outside of a traditional clinical setting. RPM refers to the specific technology used to electronically transmit information between patients and physicians, and it is just one delivery system within the broader telehealth industry.

What are remote patient monitoring devices?

Common examples of remote patient monitoring devices include voice apps that remind diabetes patients to take their insulin, while allowing their physician to monitor the disease and, digital blood pressure cuffs that enable patients to remotely send physicians their blood pressure and pulse.

How does a remote patient monitoring system work?

Unlike other telehealth delivery methods, RPM services do not require interactive audio-video, nor must patients be located in rural areas. They simply require technology that collects and interprets physiologic data. Medicare reimburses RPM services just like in-person clinical services with no additional requirements regarding use or originating site of care.

Top remote patient monitoring companies

As providers increasingly turn to RPM technology to improve patient outcomes, limit costs, and cut down on using more expensive services, healthcare industry newcomers and legacy players alike are vying for a piece of this growing market.

Some of the top RPM solution providers include:

• Dexcom
• Honeywell Life Sciences
• Medtronic
• Philips Healthcare
• ResMed
• Senseonics

RPM market trends & statistics

Providers using RPM-enabled home healthcare and other telehealth delivery methods are already reducing hospital readmission penalties. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, for example, reduced the risk of hospital readmissions by 76% — and held patient satisfaction scores over 90% — by equipping patients with tablets and RPM equipment.

Seniors are driving positive ROI from RPM technology and home-based care, largely due to the cohort’s high incidence of multiple chronic diseases. A KLAS Research report surveying 25 healthcare organizations found 38% of healthcare organizations running RPM programs focused on chronic disease reported reduced admissions, while 17% cited cost reductions.

The next trend in RPM technology is miniaturization. Device makers are making their solutions smaller and less invasive while partnering with new players to expand their market share. For example, Dexcom, has partnered with Alphabet’s life sciences unit, Verily, on a new implantable diabetes sensor that transmits health data to monitoring devices or smartphones via Bluetooth.

More to Learn

The Digital Health Ecosystem report from Business Insider Intelligence discusses how medical device makers are turning to digital tech — including RPM — to navigate the market-wide shift emphasizing illness prevention over "sick care."

Some of the key takeaways from the report include how tech-focused entrants are acting as catalysts for change and threatening legacy players' bottom lines, as well as how key digital health solutions like EHRs, digital therapeutics, telehealth, AI, wearables, and blockchain are the foundation of the industry's digital awakening.

Interested in getting the full report? Here are two ways to access it:

1. Purchase & download the full report from our research store. >> Purchase & Download Now
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• The Financial Times newspaper has created a game that lets you try out being CEO of a tech startup.
• As founder and CEO, your mission is to "balance profit and purpose," using limited resources to keep investors and stakeholders happy. 
• The game draws from real life examples, like recently-ousted WeWork CEO Adam Neumann.

Have you ever looked at the decisions of CEOs like Adam Neumann or Elon Musk and thought you could do a better job? Well, here's your chance.

FT, the publisher of the daily business newspaper, created a game that makes you CEO and founder of tech startup FlexBird. Your job is to take the company public in an IPO and to guide the business to success. Along the way, you can choose how you allocate resources to growth and social issues, but make sure you keep stakeholders and investors happy!

You'll also have to deal with other events as they come up, like protests over government contracts and a recession. Do you have what it takes?

Here's what happened when I played.

SEE ALSO: Apple CEO Tim Cook took a chairman position at one of China's top business schools

The game starts by giving you the basics: you're the CEO of FlexBird, and you have to make it through the next 4 years.

You have to keep stakeholders and investors happy.

Before the IPO, you have a chance to set up what kind of company you will run.

You have 10 resources to allocate to 4 possible areas.

I spread my resources pretty evenly. I decided to focus on meeting growth targets and social responsibility, because it seemed like it had something for both groups I was trying to win over.

Let's see how my picks played out.

Growth targets didn't do so well, even though I gave 3 resources.

Social responsibility is off to a good start.

Seems like I didn't pay enough attention to environmental sustainability.

Long term growth is decent, and we're off!

Questions about a startup with government contracts sound familiar.

This could be inspired by many real-life startups. IT automation firm Chef declined to renew its contract with ICE in September. More than 1,200 students around the country pledged not to work with data company Palantir unless it stopped working with ICE.

The majority of players made the same choice as me and dropped the contract.

A trade war is not good news for me.

This year I only have 8 resources, so I gave 2 to each sector.

Short term growth isn't going so well.

Neither is environmental responsibility.

In a very gig-economy move, I hired freelancers to avoid paying for benefits.

And now I have echoes of WeWork, renting out space to other startups.

Now I have to decide whether I should fire the company barista. So many tough calls!

Most players agreed with me and fired the barista, and it worked!

FlexBird needs a little help, so we brought in investor Purposework Capital. Could this be our SoftBank?

SoftBank backed companies like WeWork and Uber, which have faced a failed IPO and a drop in valuation.

This time, I decided to focus more on growth and social responsibility.

Banning meat from company functions is definitely a Neumann reference.

The WeWork founder reportedly ate a giant lamb shank at a company dinner after banning meat.

Some of my earlier investment are paying off.

I didn't put many resources toward environmental responsibility, but I can at least let my employees join the global climate strike.

Investors didn't like it, but stakeholders did.

For my last year, I get to set the tone for my legacy.

I think I won. Investors aren't thrilled with me, but I ended with slightly higher than average investor approval, and more than double average stakeholder approval.

• A good stadium can make or break a sporting event, which is why the best arenas are so well known to fans around the world.
• But some formerly legendary arenas that once represented the peak of advancement have since slipped into oblivion and, in some cases, been demolished.
• Check out these stadiums' stunning transformations from relevance and fame to obscurity and dilapidation.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Sporting events are about so much more than what happens on the field or court, and that's why the best arenas are so well known to fans around the world.

But some formerly legendary arenas that once represented the peak of advancement have since slipped into oblivion. Legendary venues like the Pontiac Silverdome, once home to the Detroit Tigers and host of Super Bowl XVI, Wembley Stadium, which once hosted the Olympics and the World Cup, and the Houston Astrodome, the stadium that many Houston sports franchises called home, look very different than they did during their prime.

Check out these stadiums' stunning transformations from relevance and fame to oblivion and, in some cases, disintegration:

Foxboro Stadium

Foxboro Stadium was constructed for a mere $6.7 million and officially became home to the New England Patriots in 1971.

Source: AP

Many noteworthy Patriot games took place at the iconic stadium, but perhaps the most notable is the team's final showing at Foxboro.

Known now as the "Tuck Rule" game, the snowy 2001 AFC Divisional Playoff game between the Patriots and the Oakland Raiders hinged on an apparent fumble that was reversed due Tom Brady's arm "moving forward" at the time he lost the football. New England went on to win 16-13 in overtime.

Foxboro Stadium hosted some impressive sporting events outside of football as well. The arena was the site of multiple World Cup games, including the one in which Argentinian soccer legend Diego Maradona scored his final World Cup goal.

And beyond the world of sports, music icons from Madonna and Elton John to Metallica, Guns N' Roses, and Mick Jagger performed at Foxboro Stadium.

By the 1990s, Foxboro Stadium had become obsolete relative to newer, more high-tech stadiums across the country. After the completion of the 2001 postseason, Foxboro was demolished and replaced by Gillette Stadium.

Pontiac Silverdome

The Pontiac Silverdome was once one of the greatest arenas in professional sports.

After opening in 1975, the Pontiac Silverdome became the home of the Detroit Lions. It was the largest stadium in the NFL for 22 years.

Source: MLive.com

From 1978 to 1988, the Silverdome was also home to the NBA's Detroit Pistons.

Source: MLive.com

The arena played host to Super Bowl XVI in 1982.

The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 26-21 and celebrated by carrying head coach Bill Walsh off the field.

With the Lions' move to Ford Field in 2002, the Silverdome lost its major tenant and all of its former glory.

Source: MLive.com

The stadium — which once played host to the World Cup, the Pope, and Wrestlemania — officially closed in 2006.

Source: MLive.com

The city sold the abandoned stadium to a Toronto-based Triple Investment Group for $583,000 (less than 1% of the original cost to build the facility) in 2009. The arena reopened in 2010.

Source: MLive.com

Just three years later, disaster struck when a winter storm caused the roof of the arena to cave in, leaving the entire venue in tatters.

After the new owners failed to sell the dome for $30 million, the city demolished the once-great arena in 2017.

Wembley Stadium

One of the most legendary stadiums in all of Europe, Wembley Stadium opened in London in 1923.

The arena was home to the 1948 Summer Olympics.

The stadium was also where captain Bobby Moore and the England squad defeated Germany to win its first and only World Cup in 1966.

And Queen, The Who, U2, David Bowie, and others performed at Wembley Stadium during the legendary Live Aid benefit concert in 1985.

The stadium was crumbling by the time it closed in 2000, and it was demolished three years later.

The new Wembley Stadium opened in its place in 2007.

Tiger Stadium

Tiger Stadium — another beloved Detroit-area arena — fell from grace at the turn of the century.

Located in the Corktown neighborhood of Detroit, the stadium first opened in 1912 as Navin Field.

Source: ESPN

Primarly known as home to the Detroit Tigers from 1912 to 1999, Tiger Stadium was also home to the Detroit Lions for 34 years.

Source: ESPN, Detroit Athletic Co.

The stadium hosted the 1941, 1951 and 1971 MLB All-Star Games.

It was also where New York Yankees legend Lou Gehrig famously benched himself during what would be the final game of his career due to his progressive ALS — a disease now known by his name.

Source: SBNation

By the mid-1990s, Tiger Stadium had grown outdated, so the team began constructing a new stadium in 1997. The Tigers played their final season in the much-beloved ballpark two years later.

Source: MLB.com

After efforts to preserve the stadium were rejected by the city, Tiger Stadium was demolished in a years-long process.

Source: ESPN

The demolition was completed in 2009.

Source: ESPN

Now all that remains is the original field.

Houston Astrodome

The Houston Astrodrome — the world's first dome stadium — was so famous and legendary that it was dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World."

The dome was home to the MLB's Houston Astros from its opening in 1965 to 1999.

Source: Ballparksofbaseball.com

It was also home to the NFL's Houston Oilers — now the Tennessee Titans — and, more briefly, the NBA's Houston Rockets.

Source: Ballparksofbaseball.com

Though the stadium was known for hosting baseball, basketball, and football games, many legendary events outside of those sports took place inside the dome.

Tennis great Billie Jean King famously defeated Bobby Riggs in the battle of the sexes at the Astrodome in 1973.

And three-time World Heavyweight Boxing Champion Muhammad Ali knocked out Cleveland Williams there in 1966.

Even Elvis Presley performed at the Astrodome. He gave a series of performances there in 1970.

Source: Chron.com

The Astrodome was closed after being cited for code violations in 2008.

Source: Chron.com

And ever since, the interior has deteriorated.

The turnstiles were quite literally bent out of shape.

And the once bright-red seats became dirty and tattered.

Still, many people felt connected to the once-legendary arena, and plans to refurbish the Astrodome cropped up soon after it closed.

In 2013, Houston voters opted against allocating $217 million to turn the stadium into a giant convention center and exhibition space.

Source: ABC13

In 2018, the Harris County commissioners finally approved a $105 million project to renovate the Astrodome into more than 500,000 square feet of rentable space.

Source: Houston Business Journal

Washington Coliseum

The Washington Coliseum — otherwise known as Uline Arena — was home to professional basketball teams of multiple leagues, including the Washington Capitols of the NBA.

But the arena was more famous for hosting events outside of the sports world.

Eleanor Roosevelt once hosted a party for President Franklin D. Roosevelt at the famed venue.

Malcolm X once gave a speech there.

And, most famously, The Beatles performed their first-ever North American concert there.

They played for 8,092 adoring fans at a sold-out Washington Coliseum on February 11, 1964, just two days after their famous appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show.

Source: Ultimateclassicrock.com

After a riot broke out during a 1967 performance by The Temptations forced the venue to stop hosting concerts, things went downhill for the Coliseum. For a time, the arena acted as a jail. It was also once a trash transfer station. By 2011, it had become a parking garage and has since been transformed into office spaces.

Source: DC Curbed

An REI store now sits in the Coliseum's former location. They've preserved a few original seats from the famous arena as a wall decoration.

Source: Greater Greater Washington

Miami Marine Stadium

Miami Marine Stadium was constructed on Virginia Key in 1963.

Source: Miami Herald

It was intended to host crowds during powerboat races, but became famous after hosting concerts and events with the likes of Richard Nixon and Sammy Davis Jr.

In September 1992, just a month after Hurricane Andrew ravaged Florida, the structure was deemed unsafe and subsequently closed down.

Source: Miami Herald

The stadium was slated to be demolished by the city as graffiti built up on its walls.

Source: Miami Herald

But famous artists Gloria Estefan, Jimmy Buffett, and others teamed up to try to save the historic site.

And as of 2018, the City of Miami committed $42 million to clean up the stadium and establish a park around it.

Source: The Chronicle

Candlestick Park

Candlestick Park was first proposed as the stadium for the MLB's New York Giants, who were planning to move to the West Coast.

Source: Stadiums of Pro Football

Construction of the 45,000-seat stadium began in August 1958.

Source: Stadiums of Pro Football

And, when all was said and done, the ball park cost $15 million to complete.

Source: Stadiums of Pro Football

The newly-minted San Francisco Giants played their first game there in April 1960.

The Oakland Raiders — then a part of the American Football League — played part of the 1960 and 1961 season at Candlestick Park.

The San Francisco 49ers moved in from Kezar Stadium for the 1971 season and made Candlestick Park their home stadium for more than 40 years.

Source: Stadiums of Pro Football

Over the years, the arena was home to five Super Bowl Champion teams and multiple Hall of Fame players, including wide receiver Jerry Rice and quarterbacks Joe Montana and Steve Young.

Source: Stadiums of Pro Football

The Giants moved out of Candlestick Park after the 1999 MLB season. At the time of their final home game, it was unclear whether the team would relocate to Florida or to a different stadium in the Bay Area. They chose the latter.

The 49ers stayed at "The Stick" for another 13 years, playing their final home game there in December 2013.

Source: Stadiums of Pro Football

Paul McCartney played one last show at the once-modern arena in front of a crowd of 49,000 on August 14, 2014.

Source: Business Insider

Construction crews began the stadium's demolition less than a year later.

Source: Business Insider

Rather than using wrecking balls or dynamite, construction crews demolished the stadium piece by piece.

Source: Business Insider

And soon enough, the stadium was gone. The plot of land was meant to become a shopping mall, but work was suspended midway through 2018.

Source: NAI Northern California

Arsenal Stadium

Known colloquially as Highbury thanks to its location in Highbury, London, Arsenal Stadium was home to Arsenal Football Club from 1913 to 2006.

But the stadium was far more than just the "Home of Football." It hosted some cricket and baseball games as well as Henry Cooper and Muhammad Ali's fight for the 1966 World Heavyweight boxing title.

The stadium was on its last legs when it finally closed in 2006. The lot has since been converted into an apartment complex, while the soccer club has moved to Emirates Stadium in Holloway, London.

Now check out college football fans' favorite stadiums:

The 25 best college football stadiums according to fans

• There are several musicians that you cannot pass on if you have the chance to see them live.
• While tickets can be pricey, their performances and songs are definitely worth every penny. 
• From Beyoncé to Elton John, these are the artists whose next tours you need to be on the lookout for. 

• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Whether you're a fan of artists like Beyoncé or John Mayer, if you haven't had the chance to see them perform live, you're probably missing out on something big. Tickets might be pricey for some, but it'll be more than worth it once you've seen what they have to offer. 

Although there are way too many artists to count that put on a good show, here are 35 that you should consider seeing once before it's too late.

The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are an iconic English rock band that have been around for over fifty years. Their stage presence is electrifying and their shows are a can't-miss for any rock and roll fan. The band just wrapped up their No Filter Tour this past summer, but there might be another opportunity to see Mick Jagger's moves sometime soon. 

Mary J. Blige

Looking for a performer that's guaranteed to take you on a roller coaster of emotions? Then look no further and head to Mary J. Blige's next concert. She's known for her powerful performances that get fans on their feet only to have them feeling emotional just a song later.

Bruno Mars

Perhaps one of the best performers that this era of music has birthed, you will surely get what you paid for (and much more) once you see Bruno Mars take the stage. His dance moves are captivating, and he always has a band of backup dancers and brass instruments grooving behind him. 

Beyoncé

Regardless if you're part of the Beyhive or not, seeing Queen Bey perform at least once in your life should be on your bucket list. The multi-talented songstress delivers non-stop energy. She headlined the Coachella Music and Arts Festival in 2018, then went on to release "Homecoming," a documentary film showcasing the entire behind-the-scenes process of the making of her performance. The movie showed the months of dedication and planning that she devotes to her live performances, making her an absolute must-see. 

Justin Timberlake

Whether on a joint tour with another big act or making everyone melt on his own, Justin Timberlake's performances are ones for the book. And, if there's ever an opportunity, you should also nab tickets to see him perform with former boy band group, *NSYNC.

Elton John

It doesn't matter what year you were born, seeing Sir Elton John's in concert will change your life. Luckily, he is currently on tour in the US, Australia, New Zealand, and all across Europe for literally the next year. You have no excuse not to see him live. 

Adele

This diva rarely tours because of her damaged vocal chords, so it's best to snap up tickets when you can. You will love hearing Adele's sultry voice belt out hits like "Rolling in the Deep" and "Someone Like You." And yes, it sounds exactly like it does on the record. 

Miguel

Though Miguel may not be on your list of performers to see once in your life at first thought, after you've heard him deliver soulful renditions of his recorded material, you'll see why it should be. Not to mention, he's perhaps one of the most underrated artists out there. You can catch him finishing up his tour in Texas, Nevada, California, and South Africa. 

Sam Smith

Like Adele, Sam Smith's impeccable vocal performances are ones that you should witness live at least once. He rose to fame after being featured on the Disclosure song, "Latch," and has since released two solo studio albums. Even without the gimmicks, you're guaranteed to leave without dry eyes just from the power of his voice.

Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen is an iconic American singer who guarantees a great performance, whether he's solo or backing the E Street Band. His album "Born to Run" launched his music career, and he's sold more than 135 million records since. 

Lenny Kravitz

It's been almost 30 years since Lenny Kravitz released his debut album,"Let Love Rule." Though you may not have thought about seeing him perform live before, seeing his talent in person will make you realize what having true stage presence means.

Red Hot Chili Peppers

The Red Hot Chili Peppers were formed in Los Angeles and have been producing head-banging music for almost forty years. Infamous for their stage outfits and wild crowds, they currently only have a few tour dates, so you snatch tickets while you still can. 

T-Pain

If you thought T-Pain's use of autotune disqualified him from delivering supreme vocals on stage, you are definitely wrong. Giving concert-goers a hype and memorable experience, the Tallahassee hero continues to woo the crowd to this day. He is currently touring smaller venues and even attracts younger audiences who weren't around when he rose to fame.

Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish is only 17-years-old and already making waves in the music industry. She gained popularity after the releease of her single "Ocean Eyes" on SoundCloud in 2016. Her brother Finneas helps produce her music and sometimes accompanies her on stage, making this brother-sister duo a can't-miss. Their Where Do We Go World Tour is continuing well into 2020, but it's selling out quickly. 

Janet Jackson

Since bursting onto the music scene 33 years ago, Janet Jackson has paved the way for many R&B and pop artists. She's currently wrapping up a tour if you're itching to hear No. 1 hits like "Nasty" and "What Have You Done for Me Lately" live. 

Jazmine Sullivan

She may have taken a hiatus from 2010-2015, but powerhouse vocalist Jazmine Sullivan is one artist that you must see perform live at least once in your life. Underrated excellence in vocal form, the singer never misses a note when performing on stage.

HAIM

If you love live instruments and excellent harmonies, head over to a HAIM concert. Radiating true chemistry and energy, the three sisters show off their vocals and great style on stage.

Jennifer Lopez

Even if you haven't listened to J.Lo as of late, classic songs like "If You Had My Love" and  "Jenny From the Block" will resurrect the true fan in you and make you want to nab a ticket. She always wows on stage with flawless dance moves and eye-catching costumes, making her entire performance a real masterpiece. 

Maroon 5

If Maroon 5 hasn't made it to your bucket list of performers to see live, what are you waiting for? Once you finally see them on stage, you'll wonder why you waited so long to make it happen. The iconic band is not touring much right now, but you can catch them playing in Las Vegas on New Year's Eve for an incredible show to ring in the new year. 

Eminem

A hip-hop legend and industry great, Eminem still knows how to put on a good show. The next time he embarks on a tour, be sure to grab your ticket. There's no telling how many more times you'll see him take over a stage.

Rihanna

Regardless if you're a fan of her vocals or not, her ability to dominate any room she walks into – or stage she walks on – is enough to make you want to cop a ticket. She won over thousands of new fans with her Savage x Fenty fashion show, proving just how creative her mind is. While she is not currently touring and fans are begging for new music, keep an eye out to catch this queen live. 

Kanye West

Despite your personal feelings for Kanye West, one thing you can never question is his talent. He's been bringing his Sunday Services on the road as of late, surprising fans with last-minute announcements. He recently popped up at Howard University's homecoming to perform, so keep an eye on social media to see this king in person. 

Jay-Z

Hip-hop royalty and respected businessman Jay-Z has been dominating stages since his arrival on the scene in the 90s and it's only gotten better over the years. He last toured with wife Beyoncé, for their 'On the Run 2' tour in 2018.

John Mayer

Were you a fan of the "Continuum" album? How about the most recently released "The Search for Everything?" Well, if you haven't seen John Mayer perform any of his material live, you have no idea what you're missing out on. Also, if you are a fan of The Grateful Dead, you can now catch Dead and Company on tour around the country, backed by John Mayer. 

Lady Gaga

Guaranteed to give you a show that you'll always remember, Lady Gaga should be on your list of artists to see live once in your life. You can take a look at her legendary awards show performances as an indicator. Gaga is currently performing a residency in Las Vegas, Nevada, wowing crowds almost every night. 

Lil Wayne

It's been almost 20 years since Lil Wayne released his debut album, "The Block Is Hot," and his career has gotten even hotter. While he's delivering applaud-worthy projects, nothing compares to seeing him perform hits like "Lollipop,""A Milli," and "Go DJ" in person.

Travis Scott

Travis Scott is an American rapper and producer who stepped into the limelight with his first single "Antidote." He catapulted to worldwide fame with his third album, "Astroworld." His live shows are known for huge moshpits and he often brings fans on stage and encourages them to jump headfirst into the crowd. He's not touring much right now, but you can catch him in early November at the Astroworld Festival in Houston, Texas. 

Coldplay

Coldplay is a British rock band lead by Chris Martin. The band recently announced they'll be working on a new album, which may promise a new tour in the future. Martin's vocals are mind-blowing, and Coldplay's live shows are known to feature amazing lights and visuals that are accompanied by passionate lyrics. 

The Strokes

The Strokes are a classic American rock band from New York City, and their unique and upbeat sound has won them millions of fans around the world. They have headlined countless festivals and always deliver for fans. You can watch them on New Year's Eve in New York City, or track their tour to find them in 2020. 

Chance the Rapper

Chance the Rapper rose to fame after releasing his first mixtape, "10 Day," on a sharing site called DatPiff. He went on to release his second mixtape, "Acid Rap" in 2013. His live shows are known to be both wild and intimate, and he's preparing for a huge US tour in 2020, so get your tickets now. 

Foo Fighters

Dave Grohl formed the Foo Fighters in 1994, and they've been one of the most popular rock bands since. Their live shows attract an audience of all ages and will absolutely wow you with their passion and high energy levels. While they are not currently touring, they often headline festivals around the country.

Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift is known for her intimate songs, which have garnered her millions of super-fans. While not loved by everyone, Swift's live shows may convert you. Often accompanied by talented backup dancers, brightly colored stage decor, and wild costume changes, Swift puts a lot of her creativity into her performances. The 29-year-old sensation is already selling tickets for her European Summer 2020 tour.

Billy Joel

Billy Joel, or the "Piano Man," has been playing soul-filled live shows for decades. He never fails to wow the audience, and he usually plays all across the US, so you have no excuses. 

Tame Impala

Tame Impala is an Australian group known for their psychedelic music. They rose to international fame and have gone on to headline the 2019 Coachella Music and Arts Festival and play "Saturday Night Live." Their live shows are known for dramatic visual effects, and their hypnotizing beats will win you over.

Drake

Drake is a Canadian rapper who first won fans over on the television show "Degrassi." He released his first studio album "Thank Me Later" in 2010 and has been an unstoppable force ever since. His latest album, "Compilation Package," was released in August 2019 and is a collection of older songs he never released. 

• Read more:
• Lil Wayne walked off the stage during his tour with Blink 182 and threatened to quit because of small crowd sizes
• Musician Jack White says he has never owned a cell phone and thinks they're an 'addiction'
• Ariana Grande channeled her inner Cher from 'Clueless' in one of 6 outfits from her new tour
• I went to the opening concert of the BTS World Tour, and it was beyond anything I've seen before — and then I got kicked out

• High-quality popcorn makers produce delicious popcorn within minutes, have a high yield with few unpopped kernels, and are easy to clean up.
• The Lekue Microwave Popcorn Popper is our top pick because it is simple to use, has a compact design, and costs less than $20.

If you've ever worked in an office environment, you've been tantalized by the smell of microwave popcorn. There's always someone who pops a bag for an afternoon snack. Even at home, many of us simply prefer the convenience of throwing a bag in the microwave, punching in a few numbers, and waiting for the popping to slow.

However, from the cost to the potential for contracting "popcorn lung," microwave popcorn is inferior to the from-scratch alternatives for several reasons, and it's only marginally more convenient. If you are a frequent popcorn eater, we recommend investing in a popcorn maker.

Unless you buy a commercial unit, you'll have a hard time finding a popper that costs more than $50. One of the most popular makers for kicking the microwave bag habit is fittingly the microwave popcorn popper. These poppers usually cost less than $20, are made of silicone, are incredibly easy to use (just put your ingredients in the bowl and put it in the microwave), and fold up for compact storage. Their biggest downfall is that they only make about 12 cups of popcorn at a time.

Air poppers continue to be a favorite option because they don't use oil. However, we didn't include any of these in our guide because it's hard to create a flavor-packed snack without oil. And, seasoning tends not to stick after popping. Plus, each of the models we looked at had a laundry list of buyer complaints.

Stovetop and electric popcorn makers both use metal stirrers and oil to evenly heat kernels. With stovetop models, you control the stirrers with a crank. This task is automated with the electric version. These poppers tend to cost a bit more, but they also produce more popcorn per batch.

When making popcorn at home, it's all about the seasoning and oils. Coconut oil is your best bet for tasty popcorn, but you might also consider canola oil if you are looking for a cheaper alternative. Avoid olive oil, which burns quickly, and vegetable oil, which can increase your levels of bad cholesterol.

In our research, we found the best seasoning for your popcorn is Flavacol. Go light with it because Flavacol tends to be a bit strong. If you want to spice things up, buy a good Cajun seasoning at your local market. My favorite combination in my microwave popper is coconut oil, Cajun seasoning, and a little salt. When feeling adventurous, I open it up to the entire spice rack. What happens when you invite dill to the table? Well, I wouldn't recommend that one to anyone but the biggest dill fans.

While researching the best popcorn makers, we examined thousands of expert and buyer reviews and ratings of dozens of models. Our guide features poppers that have demonstrated their user-friendliness, durability, and ability to pop fluffy, delicious popcorn.

Here are the best popcorn makers you can buy:

• Best popcorn maker overall: Lekue Microwave Popcorn Popper
• Best stovetop popper: Whirley Pop Stainless Steel Stovetop Popcorn Popper
• Best electric popcorn machine: West Bend Stir Crazy Electric Popcorn Popper Machine
• Best affordable popcorn maker: Nordic Ware Microwave Popcorn Popper
• Best high-end popcorn maker: Great Northern Pop Pup Retro Style Popcorn Machine

Updated on 10/24/2019 by Remi Rosmarin: Updated prices, links, and formatting. 

The best popcorn maker overall

The Lekue Microwave Popcorn Popper takes up very little space and produces small batches of popcorn with minimal unpopped kernels or mess.

At about the size of a cake pan when collapsed upon itself, the Lekue Microwave Popcorn Popperis the most compact option in our guide, which makes it ideal for apartment dwellers.

It also works quite simply: Fill the bowl to the line with popcorn kernels, drizzle a little oil (or no oil at all), add seasoning of your choice, put the lid on, and pop the bowl in the microwave for two to three minutes.

The bowl is made of BPA-free platinum silicone, which is known for its nonstick properties that allow for easy cleanup. The popper comes with a variety of recipes that were developed by the Alicia Foundation and inspired by various film genres.

The Lekue Microwave Popcorn Popper is the top popcorn maker according to Your Best Digs. The reviewer found that after popping 4 ounces of unpopped kernels for 2.5 minutes, there were only 10 unpopped kernels left. He also appreciated the simple setup and cleanup. However, he didn't like how small the batches were. The reviewer at Cookistry recommends this popper because it produces nice, fluffy popcorn with its simple venting.

More than 1,000 Amazon buyers have left five-star reviews of the Lekue Microwave Popcorn Popper. People report that they were able to produce batches in under two minutes using higher-watt microwaves. Whether using the dishwasher or just swirling around some hot water and soap, several buyers report that cleanup is effortless. There are also many reports that this popper leaves few unpopped kernels.

One buyer appreciates that the bowl collapses to 2.25 inches high, but she warns that you need to stop the microwave as soon as the popping slows to prevent burning.

Pros: Easy to use, compact storage, effortless cleanup, minimal unpopped kernels, cost-effective

Cons: Small, potential for burnt popcorn

Buy the Lekue Microwave Popcorn Popper on Amazon for $19.99

The best stovetop popcorn maker

If you consider yourself to be a bit of a popcorn connoisseur, pick up the Whirley Pop Stainless Steel Stovetop Popcorn Popper to make fast, delicious batches.

The Whirley Pop Stainless Steel Stovetop Popcorn Popper is unique in that it uses a combination of your stove and physical cranking to produce excellent popcorn.

You simply add oil and kernels to the pot and turn the crank to agitate the unpopped kernels. Once it becomes too hard to turn to the crank, you know the popcorn is ready. This kit comes with kernels, buttery salt, and popping oil. Wabash Valley Farms backs the popper up with a 25-year warranty.

New York Magazine recommends the Whirley Pop Stainless Steel Stovetop Popcorn Popper because it produces fluffy, light, "fully-realized" popcorn. The reviewer also noted that it is easy to clean by wiping it down with a paper towel after each use. Serious Eats recommends purchasing the aluminum version over the stainless steel because the thinner, more-conductive pan will pop the popcorn faster and reduce the chance of burnt popcorn. 

The Whirley Pop Stainless Steel Stovetop Popcorn Popper has more than 4,400 positive reviews on Amazon. The most helpful reviewer is a serious popcorn lover who had tried just about every home-use popper and one commercial brand. He found this stainless-steel popper worked great on his induction cooktop and produced perfect popcorn while cleaning up easily.

This seems to be the consensus among other self-described "popcorn lovers." The biggest complaint is that the gears may start to catch over time.

Pros: Produces high-quality popcorn, doesn't require electricity, durable construction, 25-year warranty

Cons: Requires a stove and cranking, reports of the gears catching, pricey

Buy the Whirley Pop Stainless Steel Stovetop Popcorn Popper on Amazon for $38.99

The best electric popcorn machine

With the West Bend Stir Crazy Electric Hot Oil Popcorn Popper Machine, all you need is to do is add popcorn and oil then plug in the unit, and you'll have a large batch of popcorn in four minutes.

The West Bend Stir Crazy Electric Hot Oil Popcorn Popper Machineis different from the poppers in the previous slides because it doesn't require another appliance, like a microwave or stove, to use. You just plug it into your wall outlet and let it do the rest.

The Stir Crazy stirs the unpopped kernels with an agitator in the base to keep the popcorn from burning. Also, it produces up to 27 cups of popcorn at a time. When it's done popping, you flip the unit over and use the top as a bowl. The base also fits in the top for easy storage.

Top Ten Reviews tested the West Bend popper and found that 1.25 teaspoons of unpopped kernels remained after adding a cup of kernels to the machine. That works out to about 2.6% waste. However, the reviewer still recommends this unit because there was not burnt popcorn, and it produced a higher capacity of popcorn than any other model they tested. 

More than 1,500 Amazon buyers have left four- or five-star reviews of the West Bend popper. C. G. King, the most helpful reviewer, compares this Stir Crazy model to previous ones and prefers this because it has a smaller footprint and is easier to turn over once finished popping. They also liked that there were few unpopped kernels.

Another buyer noted that you have to make sure you put enough oil in the unit for it to work, but once it does, the flavor is superior to microwave bag popcorn. People recommend using coconut oil or sunflower oil and avoiding vegetable oil.

Pros: High yield, minimal waste, excellent flavor, doesn't require the use of other appliances

Cons: Requires oil

Buy the West Bend 82505 Stir Crazy Electric Hot Oil Popcorn Popper Machine on Amazon for $29.99

The best affordable popcorn maker

The Nordic Ware Microwave Popcorn Popper provides a simple, affordable way to make small batches of popcorn.

The Nordic Ware Microwave Popcorn Popper works similarly to our top pick but is made of different materials. Nordic Ware notes that the bowl is made of an unbreakable, melamine- and BPA-free proprietary material that is similar to white clay.

The curing process makes the bowl oven safe to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. And, the lid is made of plastic. With or without oil, after 4 minutes in the microwave, the bowl produces 12 cups of popped corn.

The Nordic Ware Microwave Popcorn Popper came out on top in Cook's Illustrated's tests of the best microwave popcorn poppers. The reviewer was impressed with how simple it was to use and clean. However, they did note that the bowl gets hot so it may not be the best serving bowl. Good Housekeeping found that the Nordic Ware performed well in most of their tests, except the bowl stained badly after just a couple uses.

About 85% of the people who reviewed the Nordic Ware Microwave Popcorn Popper on Amazon gave it a positive rating. The most helpful review links to a YouTube tutorial on how to make theater-style popcorn using this popper. The buyer found the tutorial incredibly helpful and noted that the bowl was easy to clean.

Another buyer only gave it four stars because she believed she received a used unit, and it started to show burn marks after just one use. However, this was not a common problem.

Pros: Easy to use and clean, affordable, serves multiple purposes

Cons: Complaints of the bowl staining, only makes 12 cups of popcorn

Buy the Nordic Ware Microwave Popcorn Popper on Amazon from $12

The best high-end popcorn maker

If you want a popper that makes you feel like you're in the movie theater, consider the Great Northern Pop Pup Retro Style Popcorn Machine.

If you went to a movie theater and the concession stand was using any of the popcorn makers in the previous slides, you'd probably turn around and leave. When going for the movie theater feel in your home theater, you need a popcorn machine like the Great Northern Pop Pup Retro Style Popcorn Machine. This popcorn maker gives you the commercial experience at a relatively affordable price and without taking up a lot of space.

You simply add up to 2.5 ounces of kernels and oil to the kettle (the popper includes a measuring spoon and cup) and plug in the machine. The kettle stirs the kernels until they pop to facilitate the popping process and to keep burning to a minimum. You can eat right out of the slide-out popcorn serving tray. The popcorn maker also has a 10-watt bulb that keeps the popcorn somewhat warm.

Leelalicious recommends the Great Northern Pop Pup Retro Style Popcorn Machine because it has the benefits of a larger commercial popper while fitting on your kitchen countertop. They found it can produce up to 16 cups of popped corn in a single batch, and the warming light did a good job of keeping the popcorn fresh. 

The Great Northern Pop Pup Retro Style Popcorn Machine received four or five stars from approximately 70% of the Amazon buyers who reviewed it. A. Comte, the most helpful reviewer, appreciates that the popper fits on her counter, where space is limited. She noted that while the amount of popcorn it makes in a single batch isn't much, it's easy and fun to make second or third batches.

The main complaints are that it can be hard to clean, fitting the kettle into place requires a bit of force, and pouring in the ingredients can be cumbersome.

Pros: Attractive look, easy to use, cooks batches quickly, fits on most countertops

Cons: Expensive, hard to clean

Buy the Great Northern Pop Pup Retro Style Popcorn Machine on Amazon for $54.90

• School lunches are very often mediocre, and for office workers, it costs a lot of money to buy food every day. So why not pack your lunch in a great lunch box?
• We've rounded up the very best lunch boxes for preschool, elementary school, middle school, high school, and professional life.

Whether your child is heading back to school, you are going back to school, or you've just grown tired of buying your lunch from the food truck outside your workplace each day, there's no denying that a new lunch box makes the midday meal just a little bit tastier.

After all, you have to tote your sandwich and beverage in something, so why not make that something a reusable lunch box that looks good on the lunchroom table and keeps your sandwich from getting smashed, rather than wasting money and resources on use-them-and-toss-them paper bags?

Here at Business Insider, we take our lunch breaks seriously. That's why we set out to find the best lunch boxes available for every age from pre-school right through adulthood. Honestly, any of these picks could be good for any person, no matter their age. 

We visited the top consumer websites to check out the research, and listened to buyer feedback on what owners love — and don't love — about their purchases. So if you're ready to eat, forget about that crumpled paper sack, and read on. Here are the five lunch boxes that we most recommend.

Here are the best lunch boxes you can buy:

• Best for preschool: Bentgo Kids Bento Box
• Best for elementary school: PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag
• Best for middle school: L.L. Bean Flip-Top Lunch Box
• Best for high school: L.L. Bean Insulated Lunch Box
• Best for outdoor workers: Ramaka Solutions Insulated Lunch Bag
• Best for office workers: PackIt lunch bags

Updated on 10/24/2019 by Connie Chen: Updated prices and links. 

SEE ALSO: The best water bottles you can buy

The best lunch box for preschoolers

The Bentgo Kids Bento Box is divided into perfectly sized compartments for your child's preschool-sized appetite and comes in three bright colors.

The first day of pre-school is a day of tears across the country, but it's not usually the little ones who are crying. Instead, they are the bittersweet tears of moms watching their babies spreading their wings in preparation for the inexorable flight out of the nest. These little birds are just as likely to forget their lunch boxes on the playground as they are to bring them home, so it's a good idea to choose a box in one of the bright colors most favored by this age group. It's harder to overlook something colorful.

The Bentgo Kids Bento Box delivers: It comes in three happy colors, including purple, blue, and green that are bright enough to be remembered. But best of all, this pre-school and daycare-friendly lunch box performs a trick that is very important to many youngsters: it keeps foods separate in their own compartments, so different foods don't "touch."

The sturdy plastic box is made without BPA, vinyl, lead, or PVC. It has rubber edges, so it won't crack if dropped, and the two clasps are easy for little hands to open and close. The inner tray lifts out and is microwave and dishwasher safe. It's also portioned into five compartments that are just the right size for the appetites of the pre-school crowd.

This preschool-perfect lunch box is a hit on Amazon, where it has more than 5,600 reviews and an average of 4.1 stars. Parents love that the box is leak-proof and easy for preschoolers to carry and open. However, many commented that the compartments are much smaller than they expected, so be aware that this lunch box is truly intended for very young kids or those with small appetites.

Pros: Sized right for kids in preschool and first grade, bright colors, compartments, easy to wash, durable

Con: Compartments are small, so your child's appetite will likely outgrow the box by first grade

The best lunch box for elementary school

The PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag keeps your elementary kid's lunch cold for hours, and it comes in more than 40 different fun designs.

For the majority of kids, the elementary-school years are good ones. Toddlerhood is firmly in the rearview window, the pangs and perils of puberty are still far ahead, and for most children in this age group, it's all about family, friends, and fun.

When it comes to a lunch box, elementary school children generally gravitate toward bright colors, favorite animated characters, popular movie themes, cutesy animals, or wacky-but-fun designs. There's still a fair chance your kid will forget to bring the lunch box home, but when it's as colorful as the PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag, it's a lot less likely to be left behind on the school bus.

There's no need for separate gel packs or ice packs in this lunch bag. Its patented cooling technology is built right into the bag, so just pop it into the freezer overnight, and in the morning, it's chilled enough to keep lunch fresh for hours. Of course, you don't have to freeze the Packit lunch box. If you prefer, just pack lunch the night before and store it in the fridge until it's time to head out the door.

The soft PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag is made of poly canvas, with a food-safe, water-resistant lining. It zips shut at the top and also has a Velcro tab for extra security. Plus, a buckle handle makes it easy to clip onto handlebars or a backpack. When lunchtime is over, the bag folds up to easily fit in a locker or backpack.

With more than 25 colors and designs to choose from, your child is sure to find a Packit Freezable bag he or she loves. Camouflage, bright geometrics, polka dots, tie-dye, treasure maps, owls, and many more designs are available. These lunch bags are fun.

The PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag is Good Housekeeping's overall favorite. There are more than 4,400 customer reviews of the bag, with an average of 4.1 (out of 5) stars. Parents appreciate the way the bag stays cold for hours and holds plenty of food for your hungry elementary-age child. On the downside, many buyers commented that the Velcro tab quickly wore out, although the bag still closes with the zipper.  

Pros: Many child-appealing designs and colors, stays cold a long time, buckle handle.

Cons: Velcro tab doesn't hold up to regular use.

The best lunch box for middle school

The L.L. Bean Flip-Top Lunch Box hits the sweet spot between grown-up style and kid-friendly design.

Ah, middle school. The in-between years are the hardest. Preteens are filled with yearnings to look, feel, and act more grown-up. And yet at the same time, they long to stay in the ease and comfort of childhood. You can't easily solve all of the angst that comes with junior high, but you can at least make lunchtime a little bit brighter with a lunch box that both reflects the desired maturity of its carrier and yet retains the memory of the little-kid years they've so recently left behind.

The L.L. Bean Flip-Top Lunch Box hits that sweet spot for this age group. It's available in a wide range of bright solids and equally bright and fun prints, yet it has a simple, "grown-up" design that proclaims the owner is no longer a little kid.

The rugged outer fabric is strong enough to take just about anything your child dishes out. The inner insulation keeps food cold for hours, is easy to clean, and resists leaks and stains. There's a handy mesh pocket on the top of the lunch box (the part that flips open) to hold sandwiches, chips, utensils, snacks, or ice pack, and there's plenty of room in the lower section for drinks, fruit, sandwiches, or plastic containers of food. An adjustable shoulder strap makes the bag easy to carry.

It's not one of Wirecutter's picks, but it does recommend the L.L. Bean Flip-Top Lunch Box if you're looking for something larger. The site's only quibble is that it won't fit inside other bags, like a backpack.

Pros: Lots of great colors and designs, durable and classic design

Cons: None to speak of

The best lunch box for high school

The L.L. Bean Insulated Lunch Box has a sturdy construction, comes in teen-friendly colors, and it boasts two mesh pockets.

High school is a busy time. The class load — and accompanying homework — is high, the pressure is on to figure out a life plan, hormones kick into overload, and for many kids, there's also a part-time job, an intensive sport team schedule, or an overly-busy social life to attend to. To top it all off, many teens feel immense amounts of pressure to fit in and yet show individuality. It can be confusing, for sure.

But one thing that is generally blessedly simple during these four hectic years is the preferred lunch box. To-the-point, colorful, and absolutely not babyish, the L.L. Bean Insulated Lunch Box is a winner.

This well-designed lunch box sports an outer mesh pocket for utensils or small snacks, an inner mesh pocket on the box's lid for sandwiches, chips, or other goodies that might otherwise be easily smashed, and a roomy lower section that's big enough for drinks, plastic food containers, fruit, sandwiches, or whatever else your kiddo enjoys at lunchtime.

The box comes in a wide range of solid colors that will appeal to teens and an even larger selection of prints. Some of the prints are too childish for high school, but several are very suited to the older age group.

The L.L. Bean Insulated Lunch Box is the top pick of Wirecutter, which loves how sturdy this lunch box is even though it's on the smaller size.

Good Housekeeping also likes this lunch box, praising its smooth plastic interior that easily wipes clean and resists staining.

Pros: Great selection of colors, two mesh pockets, classic design

Cons: If your child is extra-hungry, this lunch box might not be big enough

The best lunch box for outdoor workers

If you like to pack a big lunch or you need to carry food for the whole day, the Ramaka Solutions Insulated Lunch Bag is a great choice.

Maybe you're in college, maybe you're just starting your first job, or maybe you've been on the job for years. Whatever your situation, you want a lunch box that gets the job done with a touch of panache, yet won't draw negative attention in the lunchroom. Well, you've met your match with the Ramaka Solutions Insulated Lunch Bag.

This is the LBLB (little black lunch box) of the noon-day meal. It's just about perfect for every lunch need. Not to say that it only comes in black, because it's also available in blue, gray, red, and purple. But what makes this bag so great is that not only is it roomy enough to hold a large lunch plus a few snacks for your morning and afternoon breaks, it's also well designed and easy to carry.

There's a padded, adjustable shoulder strap, two large mesh side pockets that hold 20-ounce water bottles, an inside zipped mesh pocket for utensils or small snacks, and a large outer zipped pocket for even more snacks, small plastic food containers, fruit, or veggies. Plus, the interior is very roomy. Go ahead and pack in a few plastic food containers, drinks, and pieces of fruit — it'll fit.

Amazon buyers like this lunch box. It has more than 1,000 reviews and an average of 4.1 stars. Customers praise the Ramaka Solutions Insulated Lunch Bag for its hefty size. Many say they use the outer pockets to hold keys, phone, wallet, and similar items. Buyers also love how well it is insulated. One owner says, "This bag is like a mini-refrigerator. It keeps my food cold even in the hottest weather."

Of course, there are always naysayers to every product, although surprisingly, the characteristic many customers like most about the Ramaka Solutions bag — its large size — is the very thing others complain about, saying it is just too big (there's actually an even bigger version). Undoubtedly, this is a lunch box for those with hefty appetites, or who like to bring a full day's worth of food, instead of relying on the lunchroom or vending machine for snacks. If you prefer something smaller, you might be better pleased with the L.L. Bean Insulated Lunch Box listed above.

Pros: Big, roomy lunch box with multiple compartments, several colors to choose from, well insulated.

Cons: If you only pack a small lunch, this might be too big for your needs

The best lunch bags for office workers

PackIt makes lots of lunch bags, and they're all great, but we like the new Traveler and Hamptons styles for people on the go who want to keep their food cold.

PackIt's lunch bags are unique because you can freeze them and they'll keep your food cold for hours. The company has lots of cute designs and shapes available, so you're sure to find one you like.

We tested the Traveler and Hamptons styles recently for summertime picnics, and they worked perfectly. Our food stayed cold for hours even though it was 90 degrees Fahrenheit outside.

The Traveler is good for everyday scenarios where you want a smaller lunch bag that holds the essentials, while the Hamptons bag is great for when you need to carry more food with you or a small group of people.

Pros: Cute designs, affordable, keep food cold, good amount of storage, designed for travel

Cons: Nothing major from our testing, although a few buyers complained about sealing and construction

Shop all PackIt lunch bags

• White House counselor Kellyanne Conway went off on a reporter during a seven-minute phone call for mentioning her husband in an article.
• Conway's husband, George Conway, has been a highly public critic of President Donald Trump, who has responded in kind over Twitter.
• Conway lambasted the Washington Examiner reporter Caitlin Yilek for mentioning the tension brought on by her husband's opposition to her boss.
• Conway apparently thought her husband's anti-Trump stance was not relevant and threatened to dig up personal information on the reporter.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

White House counselor Kellyanne Conway lambasted a reporter for mentioning her husband, George Conway, in a recent article during a phone call that lasted about seven minutes.

Kellyanne Conway also threatened to dig up personal information on the reporter.

A recording of the call was released by the Washington Examiner on Thursday afternoon. In a statement, Washington Examiner Editor in Chief Hugo Gurdon defended releasing the recording based on what he characterized as Kellyanne Conway's "abusing, bullying and threatening" a reporter. Kellyanne Conway thought the conversation was off the record.

The article at the center off the call, written by the Washington Examiner's Caitlin Yilek, was based off of a Bloomberg report suggesting President Donald Trump was considering making Kellyanne Conway his White House chief of staff. Trump has denied such reports.

Yilek's article also referenced the fact that George Conway has repeatedly criticized Trump, and the president has gone after him because of it. 

"I just am wondering why in God's earth you would need to mention anything about George Conway's tweets in an article that talks about me as possibly being chief of staff," Kellyanne Conway said during the phone call. "Other than it looks to me like there's no original reporting here, you just read Twitter and other people's stuff, which I guess is why you don't pick up the phone when people call from the White House because if it's not on Twitter, or it's not on cable TV, it's not real."

"I know it's just for clicks, but you're going to have to give me, like, a journalistic reason here, especially if you admit that you just are repeating what another news source said and the president disputed that anyway. So, it's sort of, like, doubly embarrassing. There's no original reporting," Kellyanne Conway added. "If you're going to call yourself a reporter, let's see some reporting. There's no original reporting, and then, it's just lazy."

Yilek defended her reporting, saying that mentioning George Conway was relevant context.

The top White House aide's husband has continuously ripped into Trump via Twitter, as well as in a number of op-eds for publications such as The Washington Post. In a July op-ed for The Post, for example, George Conway referred to Trump as a "racist president."

'If you're going to cover my personal life, then we're welcome to do the same around here'

During the phone call, Yilek offered to put Kellyanne Conway in touch with her editors. But Conway was apparently not satisfied with this and suggested that the reporter was trying to "rely on the men in your life."

"Let me tell you something, from a powerful woman. Don't pull the crap where you're trying to undercut another woman based on who she's married to. He gets his power through me, if you haven't noticed. Not the other way around," Conway said.

Conway accused Yilek of attempting to characterize her feelings on the highly public spat between her husband and the president, and asked why she felt compelled to do that.

"You can answer that question without your editors. You don't have to rely upon the men in your life and pretend somehow by way of reporting that I rely on the men in my life, which clearly isn't the case," Conway said. 

The White House counselor toward the end of the call threatened to find personal information on Yilek: "Listen, if you're going to cover my personal life, then we're welcome to do the same around here. If it has nothing to do with my job, which it doesn't, that's obvious, then we're either going to expect you to cover everybody's personal life, or we're going to start covering them over here."

Conway has been asked about her husband's sharp criticism of Trump in the past, and at one point, she suggested to The Washington Post that her husband's tweets against the president were "disrespectful" to her.

"I feel there's a part of him that thinks I chose Donald Trump over him," Conway told The Post in August 2018. "Which is ridiculous. One is my work and one is my marriage."

Less than an hour after the Washington Examiner released a recording of Conway's call with Yilek, her husband tweeted: "I've learned a lot about narcissism over the past couple of years that I didn't know previously. In fact, I didn't know it had a label, although I had seen it without knowing it."

SEE ALSO: A history of the times Kellyanne Conway's husband has roasted Trump

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Here's a full reading of the phone call memo between Trump and Ukraine

• Only 33 songs in history have gone 10x platinum, which is known as a diamond certification.
• Lil Nas X's"Old Town Road" is the most recent single to be certified diamond by the RIAA.
• Eminem and Katy Perry each have three diamond singles. Ed Sheeran and Lady Gaga each have two.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

There have been legions of summer bops, one-hit wonders, career-making anthems, and headline-making singles. There are songs you feel like you can't escape and songs you hear on every radio station.

But just a handful of those have been played so much, they've gone platinum multiple times — and even fewer have gone platinum 10 times over.

The latter is known as a diamond certification, the highest honor bestowed by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). It's awarded sparingly — if a song has moved at least 10 million equivalent units by combining sales and streaming numbers.

Only 33 songs in history have crossed that threshold. Keep scrolling for the complete list in chronological order.

1. "Something About The Way You Look Tonight / Candle in the Wind" by Elton John

"Something About the Way You Look Tonight / Candle in the Wind," a double A-side single, was the first-ever song to be certified diamond on October 9, 1997.

2. "Baby" by Justin Bieber featuring Ludacris

"Baby" was certified diamond on May 9, 2013.

3. "Not Afraid" by Eminem

"Not Afraid" was certified diamond on June 10, 2014.

4. "Bad Romance" by Lady Gaga

"Bad Romance" was certified diamond on May 29, 2015.

5. "Radioactive" by Imagine Dragons

"Radioactive" was certified diamond on July 6, 2015.

6. "Thrift Shop" by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis featuring Wanz

"Thrift Shop" was certified diamond on November 19, 2015.

7. "Poker Face" by Lady Gaga

"Poker Face" was certified diamond on November 30, 2015.

8. "Call Me Maybe" by Carly Rae Jepsen

"Call Me Maybe" was certified diamond on September 28, 2016.

9. "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars

"Uptown Funk" was certified diamond on October 18, 2016.

10. "Roar" by Katy Perry

"Roar" was certified diamond on June 22, 2017.

11. "Royals" by Lorde

"Royals" was certified diamond on December 8, 2017.

12. "All About That Bass" by Meghan Trainor

"All About That Bass" was certified diamond on January 23, 2018.

13. "Despacito" by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee featuring Justin Bieber

"Despacito" was certified diamond on January 27, 2018.

14. "Firework" by Katy Perry

"Firework" was certified diamond on February 13, 2018.

15. "Lose Yourself" by Eminem

"Lose Yourself" was certified diamond on February 28, 2018.

16. "Love the Way You Lie" by Eminem featuring Rihanna

"Love the Way You Lie" was certified diamond on February 28, 2018.

17. "Blurred Lines" by Robin Thicke featuring Pharrell and T.I.

"Blurred Lines" was certified diamond on June 6, 2018.

18. "I Gotta Feeling" by The Black Eyed Peas

"I Gotta Feeling" was certified diamond on June 6, 2018.

19. "Party Rock Anthem" by LMFAO featuring Lauren Bennett and GoonRock

"Party Rock Anthem" was certified diamond on June 6, 2018.

20. "Counting Stars" by OneRepublic

"Counting Stars" was certified diamond on August 20, 2018.

21. "Closer" by The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey

"Closer" was certified diamond on September 17, 2018.

22. "Cruise" by Florida Georgia Line

"Cruise" was certified diamond on October 10, 2018.

23. "Dark Horse" by Katy Perry featuring Juicy J

"Dark Horse" was certified diamond on December 12, 2018.

24. "Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars

"Just the Way You Are" was certified diamond on January 11, 2019.

25. "Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran

"Shape of You" was certified diamond on January 24, 2019.

26. "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran

"Thinking Out Loud" was certified diamond on February 8, 2019.

27. "We Are Young" by Fun. featuring Janelle Monáe

"We Are Young" was certified diamond on June 13, 2019.

28. "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz

"I'm Yours" was certified diamond on June 24, 2019.

29. "The Hills" by The Weeknd

"The Hills" was certified diamond on June 28, 2019.

30. "See You Again" by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth

"See You Again" was certified diamond on September 24, 2019.

31. "God's Plan" by Drake

"God's Plan" was certified diamond on September 25, 2019.

32. "Congratulations" by Post Malone featuring Quavo

"Congratulations" was certified diamond on October 8, 2019.

33. "Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus

"Old Town Road" is the fastest song in history to be certified diamond. It received the honor on October 22, 2019, less than one year after its original release.

• Amazon's shipping costs soared 46% in the third quarter to $9.6 billion. 
• Shipping costs are skyrocketing after Amazon said in April that it would speed up its free delivery promise from two days to one day for Prime members.
• Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos suggested Thursday that one-day delivery is better for the environment. "Although it's counterintuitive, the fastest delivery speeds generate the least carbon emissions because these products ship from fulfillment centers very close to the customer — it simply becomes impractical to use air or long ground routes," he said.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Amazon's shipping costs are ballooning as it speeds up delivery.

The company reported Thursday that global shipping costs in the third quarter soared 46% over last year to $9.6 billion. This follows year-over-year cost growth of 36% in the second quarter and 21% in the first quarter.

Shipping costs are skyrocketing after Amazon said in April that it would speed up its free-delivery promise from two days to one day for members of its Prime program.

In a statement on Thursday's earnings report, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos highlighted the company's one-day delivery promise and suggested that speedier delivery is beneficial to the environment.

"Customers love the transition of Prime from two days to one day — they've already ordered billions of items with free one-day delivery this year," Bezos said. "It's a big investment, and it's the right long-term decision for customers. And although it's counterintuitive, the fastest delivery speeds generate the least carbon emissions because these products ship from fulfillment centers very close to the customer — it simply becomes impractical to use air or long ground routes."

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NOW WATCH: At its peak, Forever 21 made $4.4 billion in revenue. Here's what led to the brand's downfall and bankruptcy.

• Though your cat does most of their grooming themselves, it's still a good idea to have a high-quality cat brush on hand.
• We did the research and testing to find the best cat brushes and grooming tools you can buy.
• The Furminator Deshedding Tool is our top pick because it reaches into your cat's undercoat to remove hairs before they fall.

The average cat spends anywhere from 15% to 50% of his day grooming himself. While this may seem excessive to you, it is completely normal for your cat and it is very important that he does it. In addition to removing dirt, dust, and dander from his coat, grooming also distributes your cat's saliva over his fur to create a protective layer that aids in thermoregulation. Grooming also helps to stimulate the production of natural oils in your cat's skin, which keeps his skin lubricated and his coat healthy.

Even though your cat does most of his grooming himself, you should still brush him at least once a week. Regular brushing helps to prevent mats and tangles, plus it will reduce the amount of fur your cat sheds. The more frequently you brush your cat, the better — especially if your cat has a long or thick coat. There are different types of cat grooming tools for different purposes and for different coat types, so you'll need to choose the one that best suits your cat.

After reading the reviews and testing some of the top cat grooming tools ourselves, we've chosen the FURminator deShedding Tool for cats as our top pick. Below you'll find our favorite cat grooming tools in four other categories.

Here are the best cat brushes you can buy:

• Best cat brush overall: FURminator Deshedding Tool for Cats
• Best slicker brush for cats: Safari Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
• Best curry brush for cats: Kong Zoom Groom
• Best de-matting comb for cats with long hair: GoPets Dematting Comb
• Best full cat-grooming kit: Catit Grooming Kit

Updated on 10/24/2019 by Lisa Sabatini: Updated prices, formatting, and links. Added related guides.

SEE ALSO: The best elevated pet feeders you can buy

The best cat brush overall

The FURminator Deshedding Tool reaches deep into your cat's undercoat to capture loose hair before it falls.

Cats are fastidiously clean animals, so they spend a decent portion of their day grooming. While constant grooming helps keep their coat clean and soft, it does come with one negative side effect: hairballs.

While hairballs may be unavoidable, there is a simple way to help reduce their frequency. Brushing your cat with a deshedding tool can help remove loose hairs from your cat's undercoat so he doesn't accidentally ingest them during grooming. It also comes with the added benefit of reduced shedding, so less clean-up for you! Our top pick for the best grooming tool for cats is the FURminator Deshedding Tool.

The FURminator Deshedding Tool is the last deshedding tool you'll ever need to buy. It features a stainless steel dehhedding edge that gets deep into your cat's undercoat to remove loose hairs, reducing shedding by up to 90%. Not only is it highly effective in removing hair, but it has an eject button that makes the hair fall from the brush into the trash easily. 

The brush has an ergonomic handle for comfort and ease of use, plus, it comes in two versions: one for short-hair cats and one for long-hair cats.

We tested the Furminator on our cats, and we were amazed by how effective it is in removing loose hair. In our review, Steven John explained what makes it so great: "Unlike most cat brushes, the FURminator can reach down into the undercoat and remove loose hairs there, thus capturing much more of the hair that was destined for your floor or couch."

A detailed review from Ask the Cat Doctor confirms that this tool removes a shocking amount of hair — more than double the amount removed by other cat brushes. All About Cats gives the short hair FURminator deShedding Tool its award for the best budget cat brush, commenting that the size is perfect for cats and the self-cleaning mechanism makes it easy to use.

With more than 7,400 reviews on Amazon and a 4.7-star average rating, it is easy to see that the FURminator Deshedding Tool is a popular choice among cat owners. Cat owners love the sturdy construction and the FURejector button, though some people commented that their cats disliked the brush.

Pros: Quality construction, ergonomic handle for comfort, stainless-steel shedding edge, reduces shedding by 90%, self-cleaning FURejector button, for long or short hair

Cons: Some cats disliked the teeth, may irritate cats with sensitive skin, more expensive than other options on the market

Buy the FURminator Deshedding Tool for Cats on Amazon for $12.12 and up

The best slicker brush for cats

With fine, needle-like pins to get deep into your cat's undercoat, the Safari Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is a highly effective grooming tool that self-cleans.

A slicker brush has a wide head with very thin teeth so it can remove dirt and dander from your cat's coat as well as dead or loose hairs. These brushes typically work best for medium- to long-haired cats and, when used regularly, this kind of brush can help to prevent matting. Our top pick for this type pf brush is the Safari Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush.

The Safari Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is designed to remove loose fur and reduce shedding in cats with all coat types. With a rubberized comfort grip handle and a curved head, this slicker brush gets deep into your cat's undercoat to remove loose hairs before they can be shed. When the tool fills up with fur, simply use the self-cleaning feature to retract the pins and remove the accumulated fur.

In our own testing, we found that it worked well on both short-hair and long-hair cats, though one test cat with very fine fur disliked the needle-like pins against her skin.

Kitty Catter gives the Safari Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush an A+ rating for its self-cleaning feature and the fact that the pins are set in a curved head to reduce pull and maximize hair removal. The Cat Digest likes the comfort grip handle and the fact that it works well on cats with all coat types.

With more than 1,300 reviews on Amazon and a solid 4.6-star rating, the Safari Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is a top choice among cat owners. Not only is it affordable, but it is well made and easy to use. 

Pros: Quality construction, fine stainless-steel pins, curved head for thorough grooming, easily removes loose hairs, self-cleaning feature, ergonomic handle for comfort, removes mats and small tangles

Cons: Some cats dislike the feeling of pins against their skin, may not work as well on short-haired cats, fine pins may bend easily, some users found it to be too large

Buy the Safari Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush on Amazon for $10.84

Buy the Safari Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush on Chewy for $10.84

The best curry brush for cats

The KONG Zoom Groom is a curry comb that massages your cat while it picks up loose hairs, dirt, and dander.

Though it may not look like a traditional cat grooming tool, a curry comb is a great option to have in your arsenal. These tools are typically made from soft rubber with flexible teeth and designed to remove dirt, dander, and loose hairs from your cat's coat. In addition to removing hair, curry combs give your cat a gentle massage, which helps stimulate the production of natural oils in your cat's skin that helps keep his coat shiny and smooth. Our top pick for the best curry comb for cats is the KONG Zoom Groom.

The KONG Zoom Groom features a cute cat-shaped design and is made from soft but durable rubber. It fits comfortably in your hand and is loaded up with flexible needles designed to reach deep into your cat's coat, drawing out loose hairs like a magnet while giving him a gentle massage. The KONG Zoom Groom is a great option for cats who dislike other brushes and it helps stimulate healthy circulation and oil production in your cat's skin.

In testing this product ourselves, we found that our cats enjoyed the massaging action of the KONG Zoom Groom, though it was a little messy because the rubber teeth don't collect hair as well as more closely set wire pins.

A review by Cat Overdose comments that the KONG Zoom Groom is the ideal combination of cute and effective. The reviewer praises the comb's sturdy, durable design as well as its affordable price. A more detailed review from Love Meow notes that the comb untangled hair easily and the teeth were soft enough for use in sensitive areas like a cat's stomach and face.

With over 1,400 reviews on Amazon and a 4.3-star average rating, the KONG Zoom Groom is one of the top cat curry combs. Cat owners love the design and the gentle massaging action, though there are many comments that the comb doesn't trap hair as well as cat brushes with pins or metal teeth.

Pros: Made from durable materials, lightweight and comfortable to use, cute cat-shaped design, flexible rubber teeth, removes loose hair and massages skin, good for sensitive areas, affordable price

Cons: Doesn't collect hair as well as some brushes, limited efficacy in removing large mats or tangles

Buy the Kong Cat ZoomGroom on Amazon for $4.95

Buy the KONG Cat ZoomGroom on Chewy for $3.99

The best de-matting comb for cats with long hair

The GoPets Dematting Comb gently works through mats and tangles while also removing loose hair to reduce shedding in cats with all coats.

All cats are prone to mats and tangles, but these problems are more common in cats with medium to long coats. While frequent brushing is important to reduce shedding, some cats need additional attention to work through mats and tangles. A dematting comb is a grooming tool designed just for this purpose. It features curved, widely spaced teeth that gently work through the mat. For professional quality and dual-sided grooming action, the GoPets Dematting Comb is our top pick for long-hair cats.

Made from professional-grade materials with a dual-sided head, the GoPets Dematting Comb is perfect for cats with all coat types and lengths. One side features 12 widely-spaced teeth for working through tough mats and tangles while the other has 23 teeth spaced closely together for general grooming and deshedding. This tool features an ergonomic comfort grip handle and it is guaranteed safe and gentle.

Petsho says that the GoPets Dematting Comb is perfect for pets of all sizes with all coat types. The reviewer notes the ergonomic design and ease of use as well as its ability to gently remove tangles. The Cat Digest notes the convenience of the dual-sided comb with a larger head for use on long-haired cats as well as a smaller head to work through tough mats.

The GoPets Dematting Comb has more than 3,300 reviews on Amazon and a 4.4-star average rating. Cat owners love the comfort grip handle and the dual-sided comb, though there are some comments that the blunted teeth don't dig as deep into the undercoat as sharper teeth. In testing the product ourselves, we didn't find this to be a problem and we can confirm that the dual-sided comb works well for all coat types.

Pros: Professional quality, two-sided for use with all coat types and lengths, ergonomic grip handle for comfort, blunted teeth for gentle grooming, gets deep into the undercoat, works through tangles and mats, helps reduce shedding

Cons: May pull with very matted or tangled hair, fur may stick to the gel grip handle, blunted teeth may not get as deep into the coat as sharper teeth, fairly expensive compared to other models

Buy the GoPets Dematting Comb on Amazon for $25

The best full cat grooming kit

The Catit Grooming Kit includes all the tools you need to groom your cat, no matter the type or length of his coat.

Grooming your cat can be messy work, especially if he has a long coat or if it's been a while since you last brushed him. When you need to do some heavy-duty grooming, it pays to have an assortment of tools on hand to handle hairy messes, tackle tangles, and manage mats.

Why pay extra to purchase your grooming tools separately when you can buy an all-in-one grooming kit tailored to your cat's coat type? Our top pick for the best cat grooming kit is the Catit Grooming Kit which comes in a shorthair and long-hair version, each complete with five high-quality cat grooming tools.

For an all-in-one cat grooming solution, we recommend the Catit Grooming Kit. Complete with five grooming tools packed in a convenient storage canister, this kit comes with everything you could possibly need. Catit has a kit for long-hair cats and short-hair cats.

In testing the grooming kiton our cats, we found the tools are of excellent quality and the hair collection bin is large enough for a multi-cat household.  

A detailed review from Fully Feline confirms that the tools are sturdy and well made. The reviewer says the rubber grips are comfortable and the handles are perfectly sized, even for people with small hands. A review from Sweet Purrfections goes into detail about each of the tools, noting the quality of the design and their ease of use. 

Although it only has 30 reviews on Amazon, the Catit Grooming Kit has a 4.8-star average rating and carries an Amazon's Choice award. Though there are some complaints about the price, cat owners love the quality of the tools. 

Pros: Two versions for short and long hair, comes with 5 grooming tools, grooming comb to detangle hair, pin brush to remove dirt and small tangles, slicker brush to remove loose hair, slicker brush to smooth coat, rubber palm brush to massage skin, high-quality nail clippers, ergonomic grips, comes with storage unit that doubles as a hair collection container

Cons: Tools cannot be purchased separately, more expensive than other options

Buy the Catit Grooming Kit on Amazon for $39.99

Check out our other great cat gear guides

The best indoor cat entertainment products

Indoor-only cats tend to need extra entertainment and incentive to stay physically active. Here are the best products to keep your indoor cat entertained:

• Best cat complex: CatastrophiCreations Cat Mod Garden Complex
• Best cat window perch: K& H Kitty Sill Deluxe with Removable Bolster
• Best cat playground for outside: Outback Jack Kitty Compound

The best cat litter you can buy

Cats are picky about the litter in their boxes, so it's important to choose a formula that's healthy for your cat and easy to clean. Because there are so many different types of cat litter out there, it can be a challenge to make the right choice. Here are the best cat litters you can buy:

• Best cat litter overall: Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra-Premium Clumping Litter 
• Best clumping cat litter: World's Best Cat Litter Clumping Formula
• Best newspaper cat litter: Purina Yesterday's News Unscented Litter
• The best natural cat litter: Ökocat Natural Wood Cat Litter
• The best multi-cat litter: World's Best Cat Litter Multiple Cat Clumping Formula

The best cat harness and leash

Most cats won't let you get a harness anywhere near them, but some do like a stroll in the park. For those special cats, you need a cat harness and leash. There are several types of cat harnesses available, from basic to vest-style. Here are the best cat harnesses and leash you can buy:

• Best cat harness overall: Kitty Holster Cat Harness
• Best budget cat harness: PupTeck Adjustable Cat Harness
• Best cat harness for indoors: PetSafe Come With Me Kitty Harness
• Best cat harness for large cats: Best Pet Supplies Voyager All-Weather Harness
• Best cat leash: Flexi Vario Cord Leash

The best cat food

Cats need lots of protein and fat in their diets to be healthy, so it's important that you feed them the best cat food. Whether you're shopping for wet cat food or dry cat food, we've researched many cat food brands to give you high-quality options. Here are our top picks:

• Best cat food overall: Ziwi Peak wet cat food
• Best dry cat food: Acana dry cat food
• Best wet cat food: Nature's Variety Instinct wet cat food
• Best grain-free cat food: Wellness grain-free cat food
• Best organic cat food: Castor & Pollux organic cat food

The best medicated cat shampoo

Shampoo for cats is easy to find online, but the sheer volume of options can make it difficult to choose. Lucky for you, we've done the research to bring you our top picks for the best medicated shampoo for cats. 

• Best cat shampoo overall: Douxo Chlorhexidine PS Shampoo for Dogs & Cats
• Best cat shampoo for skin allergies: Earthbath All Natural Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo 
• Best cat shampoo for bacterial skin infections: PetMD Benzoyl Peroxide Medicated Shampoo
• Best cat shampoo for fungal infections: Curaseb Chlorhexidine Medicated Shampoo
• Best cat shampoo for fleas and ticks: Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor

• Depending on which state you live in, what you can do on a date will vary greatly.
• Not only can date activities differ by region and state, but so can the average cost of a date, the number of nearby singles, and how each state ranks according to dating opportunities, romance, and fun. 
• The cost of an average date ranges from $96.52 (in Mississippi) to $107.09 (in Washington), while New York earned the highest "fun" ranking among all the states — and Delaware earned the lowest.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Depending on which state you live in, your idea of a perfect date can vary greatly.

While some states have bustling cities specializing in gourmet meals and out-of-this-world cocktails, other US states are best known for nature trails and hiking that couples of all ages can enjoy.

Insider analyzed different sources to determine what dating looks like in every state. The findings encompass date ideas; the average cost of a date in each state, according to 24/7 Wall St; the percentage of single-person households in each state, according to Statista; and how each state ranked for dating opportunities, romance, and fun, according to WalletHub.

24/7 Wall St based its average date cost on the average prices of dinner, drinks, and a movie in each state, while WalletHub analyzed metrics such as the share of single adults, the gender balance of singles, online dating opportunities, restaurants per capita, and the number of attractions.

Here's what dating is like in every state.

ALABAMA: Popular dates in Alabama revolve around being outside — Little River Canyon National Preserve, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, and Dauphin Island are perfect for an adventurous Southern date.

Cost per date: $98.98

Percentage of single-person households: 29.9%

Dating opportunities ranking (when compared with all other states): 36/50

Romance and fun ranking (when compared with all other states): 46/50

ALASKA: Cozy up by a fire enjoying a glass of wine, or step outside and take in the natural beauty of Alaska, from the Northern Lights to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.

Cost per date: $104.01

Percentage of single-person households: 26%

Dating opportunities ranking: 26

Romance and fun ranking: 48

ARIZONA: Arizona is home to wonderful art museums, botanical gardens, and awe-inspiring hiking trails perfect for a first date.

Cost per date: $99.29

Percentage of single-person households: 27%

Dating opportunities ranking: 11

Romance and fun ranking: 17

ARKANSAS: For outdoorsy couples, consider going kayaking, spending time in nature, wandering forest trails, or going apple-picking during the fall.

Cost per date: $97.34

Percentage of single-person households: 28.2%

Dating opportunities ranking: 48

Romance and fun ranking: 47

CALIFORNIA: For a classic California date, bring dinner and a bottle of Napa Valley wine to the beach and enjoy your drinks and bites by the sea. California was ranked the top spot for dating opportunities, and No. 2 for romance and fun.

Cost per date: $106.16

Percentage of single-person households: 24%

Dating opportunities ranking: 1

Romance and fun ranking: 2

COLORADO: Enjoy a romantic hike along one of Colorado's many mountain trails, then finish the date with a mug of coffee in a cozy café.

Cost per date: $102.16

Percentage of single-person households: 28.1%

Dating opportunities ranking: 25

Romance and fun ranking: 19

CONNECTICUT: Enjoy a nice dinner out at Max Downtown in Hartford, stroll around the boutiques in West Hartford, or enjoy a relaxing picnic by one of the state's many ponds or lakes.

Cost per date: $106.67

Percentage of single-person households: 29.1%

Dating opportunities ranking: 15

Romance and fun ranking: 20

DELAWARE: Delaware was ranked last for romance and fun, but singles shouldn't be discouraged: There's plenty to do.

Popular date spots include picnicking at White Clay Creek State Park, a food tour at New Castle Farmers Market, happy hour at Trolley Square Oyster House, or dinner by the fireplace at the historic Dilworthtown Inn.

Cost per date: $101.44

Percentage of single-person households: 28.9%

Dating opportunities ranking: 27

Romance and fun ranking: 50

FLORIDA: Sip cocktails and enjoy the thriving nightlife scene in Miami, visit one of the state's many beaches, or visit Walt Disney World in Orlando to truly impress your date.

Cost per date: $101.03

Percentage of single-person households: 29%

Dating opportunities ranking: 3

Romance and fun ranking: 3

GEORGIA: Georgia offers a host of opportunities for fun and adventurous dates. Enjoy the beautiful weather by going on a nature walk, or simply have a barbecue cookout in your own backyard.

Cost per date: $99.39

Percentage of single-person households: 27.5%

Dating opportunities ranking: 14

Romance and fun ranking: 14

HAWAII: One of the most naturally beautiful states in the country, Hawaii offers amazing vistas, waterfalls, surfing, and delicious cuisine you and your date will love.

Cost per date: $114.16

Percentage of single-person households: 24.5%

Dating opportunities ranking: 20

Romance and fun ranking: 45

IDAHO: Get a little fresh air by walking the Snake River Canyon Trail, visit a local farmers market, or sip coffee while wandering through nature.

Cost per date: $101.03

Percentage of single-person households: 25.4%

Dating opportunities ranking: 44

Romance and fun ranking: 39

ILLINOIS: For couples located in Chicago, popular date spots include a performance in the Theater District, live comedy shows at Second City, or a fancy dinner at one of the city's premier restaurants.

Cost per date: $100.83

Percentage of single-person households: 29.6%

Dating opportunities ranking: 4

Romance and fun ranking: 6

INDIANA: Meet some animals at the Exotic Feline Rescue Center, take your date out to a ballgame at Victory Field, or go out for a classic dinner and a movie.

Cost per date: $98.67

Percentage of single-person households: 28.9%

Dating opportunities ranking: 31

Romance and fun ranking: 25

IOWA: Daters living in Iowa should consider visiting the Maquoketa Caves State Park, the Noce Jazz Club in Des Moines, or taking a wine tour.

Cost per date: $97.44

Percentage of single-person households: 29.6%

Dating opportunities ranking: 40

Romance and fun ranking: 21

KANSAS: While Kansas ranked low for dating opportunities, fun, and romance, the state is nevertheless naturally beautiful and dating costs are low compared to other states.

Cost per date: $98.16

Percentage of single-person households: 29.2%

Dating opportunities ranking: 43

Romance and fun ranking: 40

KENTUCKY: Dating opportunities in Kentucky are considered very low. However, people looking to meet someone new might find success in Louisville's up-and-coming music and food scene.

Cost per date: $97.03

Percentage of single-person households: 28.1%

Dating opportunities ranking: 46

Romance and fun ranking: 27

LOUISIANA: New Orleans is a wonderful date spot, from the delicious food to the exciting nightlife. However, Louisiana as a whole also has plenty of fun date ideas like visiting a crawfish farm or catching a show at the Strand Theater in Shreveport.

Cost per date: $99.29

Percentage of single-person households: 30.6%

Dating opportunities ranking: 23

Romance and fun ranking: 30

MAINE: Stroll through a quaint seaside town snacking on saltwater taffy or, if you really want to impress, treat your date to a traditional lobster dinner.

Cost per date: $101.14

Percentage of single-person households: 30.8%

Dating opportunities ranking: 34

Romance and fun ranking: 22

MARYLAND: For a romantic evening, stroll along the waterfront in Baltimore. For a more lighthearted day-date, head to Six Flags America in Upper Marlboro or take a ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad.

Cost per date: $106.26

Percentage of single-person households: 27.3%

Dating opportunities ranking: 12

Romance and fun ranking: 34

MASSACHUSETTS: Boston has a wonderful nightlife scene with tons of bars serving up cocktails and regional seafood. If you live outside the city, consider hiking through fall foliage or visiting the national seashore.

Cost per date: $104.42

Percentage of single-person households: 29%

Dating opportunities ranking: 5

Romance and fun ranking: 9

MICHIGAN: Step outside your comfort zone by going snowshoeing in rural Michigan during the winter — or just relax by Lake Michigan in the summer.

Cost per date: $99.91

Percentage of single-person households: 29.6%

Dating opportunities ranking: 10

Romance and fun ranking: 13

MINNESOTA: Perhaps an underrated state for dating, Minnesota was ranked in the top 15 states for romance and fun.

Cost per date: $103.91

Percentage of single-person households: 28.7%

Dating opportunities ranking: 24

Romance and fun ranking: 12

MISSISSIPPI: Mississippi ranks second to last for romance and fun. However, what the state lacks in nightlife or date spots, it makes up for in natural beauty.

Cost per date: $96.52

Percentage of single-person households: 29.6%

Dating opportunities ranking: 35

Romance and fun ranking: 49

MISSOURI: In this Midwestern state, daters can go thrift shopping then do classic dinner, drinks, and a film at the Moxie Cinema.

Cost per date: $97.96

Percentage of single-person households: 29.7%

Dating opportunities ranking: 30

Romance and fun ranking: 16

MONTANA: Enjoy the best of Montana's beautiful scenery by taking a horseback ride with your date.

Cost per date: $101.96

Percentage of single-person households: 30%

Dating opportunities ranking: 41

Romance and fun ranking: 24

NEBRASKA: Dating opportunities in this Midwestern state are low but good date ideas for singles could include coffee, dinner and a movie, or taking a pottery class.

Cost per date: $97.65

Percentage of single-person households: 29.6%

Dating opportunities ranking: 42

Romance and fun ranking: 31

NEVADA: Dating opportunities are relatively high in Nevada — who knows, maybe your date in Las Vegas will turn into a Little White Chapel wedding.

Cost per date: $98.37

Percentage of single-person households: 29.4%

Dating opportunities ranking: 17

Romance and fun ranking: 33

NEW HAMPSHIRE: New Hampshire is perfect for hiking through nature or fall foliage before curling up with a cup of something warm in one of the state's cozy coffee shops.

Cost per date: $103.50

Percentage of single-person households: 27.6%

Dating opportunities ranking: 32

Romance and fun ranking: 32

NEW JERSEY: The Jersey Shore in the middle of summer is perfect for couples. Test yourself on one of the thrill-seeking fair rides, eat delicious fried food, or walk along the boardwalk.

Cost per date: $104.62

Percentage of single-person households: 26%

Dating opportunities ranking: 8

Romance and fun ranking: 23

NEW MEXICO: Eat the best Mexican cuisine north of the border at one of Mexico City's best restaurants, go dancing, or enjoy the beautiful warm weather by soaking in one of the state's hot springs.

Cost per date: $99.49

Percentage of single-person households: 31.1%

Dating opportunities ranking: 29

Romance and fun ranking: 42

NEW YORK: New York City is jam-packed with incredible restaurants, shows, and sights, making it no surprise that New York ranked second for dating opportunities and first for romance and fun.

Cost per date: $111.60

Percentage of single-person households: 29.9%

Dating opportunities ranking: 2

Romance and fun ranking: 1

NORTH CAROLINA: Enjoy the beautiful temperate weather by taking a hike, wandering through boutiques in Asheville, or visiting the beach.

Cost per date: $99.08

Percentage of single-person households: 28.5%

Dating opportunities ranking: 21

Romance and fun ranking: 15

NORTH DAKOTA: This Midwestern state ranked last for dating opportunities — but you can never go wrong with a dinner cruise on the Lewis and Clark Riverboat or a romantic dinner at Mezzaluna in Fargo.

Cost per date: $97.24

Percentage of single-person households: 32%

Dating opportunities ranking: 50

Romance and fun ranking: 43

OHIO: Cleveland has an abundance of gourmet restaurants, lounges, and cocktail bars. However, even if you live in rural Ohio, there's still plenty to do.

How about visiting Old Man's Cave at Hocking Hills State Park, the Columbus Zoo Wildlights around the holidays, or Vinoklet Winery in Cincinnati?

Cost per date: $98.26

Percentage of single-person households: 31.1%

Dating opportunities ranking: 9

Romance and fun ranking: 7

OKLAHOMA: Take a ride along the Oklahoma River Cruise, visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, or visit the animals at the Oklahoma City Zoo in a state where 28% of households are single.

Cost per date: $98.26

Percentage of single-person households: 28%

Dating opportunities ranking: 39

Romance and fun ranking: 37

OREGON: Couples in the vicinity of Portland, Oregon, should check out the many thrift stores, coffee shops, and craft breweries in the city.

Cost per date: $101.65

Percentage of single-person households: 27.3%

Dating opportunities ranking: 19

Romance and fun ranking: 10

PENNSYLVANIA: Go sightseeing in Philadelphia or Pittsburgh, or explore one of the beautiful state parks.

Cost per date: $101.96

Percentage of single-person households: 29.9%

Dating opportunities ranking: 7

Romance and fun ranking: 4

RHODE ISLAND: In the nation's smallest state, go out for a night on the town in Providence, Rhode Island, or walk along one of the beaches.

Cost per date: $100.93

Percentage of single-person households: 31.5%

Dating opportunities ranking: 22

Romance and fun ranking: 38

SOUTH CAROLINA: Stroll through the historic streets of Charleston or hike in upstate South Carolina to see beautiful willow trees or waterfalls.

Cost per date: $99.39

Percentage of single-person households: 29%

Dating opportunities ranking: 38

Romance and fun ranking: 28

SOUTH DAKOTA: South Dakota ranked second to last for dating opportunities, despite having one of the lowest dating costs. Perhaps in this state, dinner, drinks, and a movie is the way to go.

Cost per date: $97.14

Percentage of single-person households: 29.2%

Dating opportunities ranking: 49

Romance and fun ranking: 29

TENNESSEE: Get your honky-tonk on in Nashville or cook up some Southern barbecue in your own backyard — whatever you choose, your Tennessee date is sure to be a blast.

Cost per date: $98.88

Percentage of single-person households: 28%

Dating opportunities ranking: 33

Romance and fun ranking: 18

TEXAS: Have a backyard barbecue, go thrift shopping in Houston or have a fancy night out in Austin, which has also been voted the best place in America to live.

Cost per date: $99.60

Percentage of single-person households: 25.5%

Dating opportunities ranking: 6

Romance and fun ranking: 5

UTAH: Utah has beautiful hiking and camping spots for adventurous couples who enjoy spending time in the outdoors.

Cost per date: $99.08

Percentage of single-person households: 19.4%

Dating opportunities ranking: 37

Romance and fun ranking: 36

VERMONT: One of the more expensive states for dating, Vermont has beautiful fall foliage, hiking trails, cozy restaurants, and breweries.

Cost per date: $101.03

Percentage of single-person households: 31.3%

Dating opportunities ranking: 28

Romance and fun ranking: 35

VIRGINIA: They say that Virginia is for lovers. From sipping wine and eating charcuterie at one of the state's many vineyards to visiting historic landmarks, Virginia has plenty of date spots to offer.

Cost per date: $102.37

Percentage of single-person households: 27.5%

Dating opportunities ranking: 18

Romance and fun ranking: 26

WASHINGTON: The rainy weather in Washington is perfect for grabbing a beer at a local bar, going to dinner and a movie, or snuggling up on the couch to watch a film at home.

Cost per date: $107.09

Percentage of single-person households: 26.2%

Dating opportunities ranking: 13

Romance and fun ranking: 11

WEST VIRGINIA: Get outside and visit one of West Virginia's gorgeous state parks for an adventurous date.

Cost per date: $97.03

Percentage of single-person households: 31.1%

Dating opportunities ranking: 47

Romance and fun ranking: 44

WISCONSIN: This Midwestern state is known for its dairy products, so consider attending a cheese tour with your date.

Cost per date: $98.26

Percentage of single-person households: 29.5%

Dating opportunities ranking: 16

Romance and fun ranking: 8

WYOMING: To battle the cold Wyoming winters, consider a spa day, ice skating, or bowling.

Cost per date: $101.75

Percentage of single-person households: 29.1%

Dating opportunities ranking: 45

Romance and fun ranking: 41

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• The alt-milk wars have been going on for quite some time now, but only within the past couple of years has oat milk joined the battle over shelf space. 
• Walk down the dairy aisle of your local supermarket and you'll probably see a number of "milk" drinks that aren't actually dairy at all — like soy "milk," various kinds of nut "milk," and other plant-based options — right next to the old fashioned cow milk. 
• There are plenty of reasons why someone may choose a dairy-free option over the dairy-based classics — like allergies or other medically-backed dietary restrictions — but there are also people who like the health benefits of one more than the other or try to choose the option that is best for the environment. 
• We conducted a blind taste test of seven different types of milk — including dairy and non-dairy varieties — to see which ultimately tastes the best. They were: organic whole milk, lactose-free 2% milk, organic 1% milk, skim milk, soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk.
• After drinking them all straight-up, splashed into coffee, infused with Fruit Loops, fried into French toast, and steamed by a barista, we couldn't actually pick one overall winner, though we did pick one for each round of tasting.
• But we were able to pick an overall loser, which, to our complete surprise, was oat milk, the alt-milk beloved by millennials.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

There are so many different dairy milk and dairy milk alternative options on the shelves today that we decided to put seven of them to the test — or more specifically, a taste test.

Of course, we couldn't just judge based on how they taste when sipping straight from the carton — although, that wouldn't be an unrealistic way to judge ...

... so we picked five popular ways of consuming milk that each give their own experience. We tried them as just a stand-alone cup of milk, in a bowl of cereal, mixed with coffee ...

... fried into French toast ...

... and steamed.

Each milk drink was assigned a number: 1. organic whole milk, 2. lactose-free 2% milk, 3. organic 1% milk, 4. skim milk, 5. soy milk, 6. almond milk, and 7. oat milk.

All of our willing participants went into the tasting blind — which means they only knew which number they were tasting, not which varietal of drink.

We started off with the plain cup of milk. Ranking criteria for this category included color, smell, viscosity, taste, and willingness to drink it again.

When it came to simply enjoying a glass of milk, the whole milk and the lactose-free 2% milk were the winners.

Most tasters said the color on both of these cow milk options was near "beautiful" and the viscosity of them was average — it wasn't so thick that it was gross, and it wasn't so thin that it was watery.

While both milks ranked highly in several tasting categories, the organic whole milk reigned supreme. It had an appetizing color, a tolerable smell, and a "true milk taste." All five tasters said they would drink it again.

When it came to the 2% lactose-free milk, tasters thought it was full-fat dairy milk. They said it looked even "creamier" than the whole milk. While two people said it didn't really have a smell ...

... others disagreed. Two tasters said it smelled sour, with one writing its odor was "reminiscent of the point in a carton's lifespan in which you're unsure if you should drink it or not." Another compared the smell to "stinky cheese."

As opposed to the whole milk's unanimous "yes," only three out of five tasters said they would drink the lactose-free milk again.

Milk drink No. 3 was a 1% milkfat, organic dairy milk, which did fairly well with tasters.

Tasters thought the color on this one was fairly neutral with one person writing, "Typical milk color with a watery light yellow undertone."

When it came to the smell and viscosity, most people thought the drink was average, with virtually no smell and average viscosity.

Interestingly, one person wrote that they thought the 1% milk had a "thicker, fuller milk taste," while another person wrote that it seemed "creamier" than the whole and 2% milks.

Milk No. 4 was an enriched fat-free, or skim, milk.

The skim milk gave a good first impression — tasters said it had "a beautiful ivory color to it"— but most tasters said it smelled pretty bad.

Two tasters said it smelled rotten or near rotten. One wrote, "It's like four-days-in-the-fridge too long."

But one taster actually liked the smell. They wrote, "Smells like Cookies 'n' Cream Hershey's bar. Love it!" This person was also the only taster to say they would drink milk No. 4 again — everyone else gave it a hard no.

Milk No. 5 was a dairy alternative: soy milk.

One taster wrote that the color looked like "milk that was poured onto a dirty sidewalk and scooped back into the carton. It looks like what you'd expect from a nut milk."

But when it came to the odor, all tasters agreed that the soy milk had a pleasant and sweet smell reminiscent of cotton candy or vanilla ice cream.

However, after tasting it, most people said they wouldn't drink it again. They wrote that they were "Surprised by the taste" in the worst way: "So bad. So thick. I'm gagging. Tastes like there is cardboard in my milk."

Next up was the Almond Breeze almond milk. It left a pretty bad first impression with tasters when they examined the color.

All tasters agreed there was a strange color here. One thought it looked purple, while another described it as having a "gray, dull tint." But when it came to smell, it was a unanimous two-thumbs-up — no one thought it had a distinct smell.

After giving it a try, most tasters thought it was on the thicker side — only one said they would drink it again and ranked it their favorite so far. The almond milk's taste got mixed reviews — one taster wrote that they "could see this being good in coffee but not on its own," while another predicted it "would taint any cup of coffee."

Before the tasting, we predicted that the oat milk drink would be the best overall, mostly due to the hype it's generated on the internet. But it was actually the worst.

On a scale of 1 (labeled "Ew") to 5 (labeled "Beautiful"), every taster ranked the oat milk drink as "Ew." Comments ranged from "If the last one's color scared me, this one was perhaps even more unappealing."

Tasters wrote that it had a tint of green in the coloring that made it look like "you rinsed lettuce with it, put it in a salad spinner, and was subjected to drinking it." They also said it looked gray, as if "someone mixed putty with cement and some water" to make it.

On a scale ranging from 1 (labeled "Rotten") to 5 (labeled "Yummy") Oatly's stench raked in mostly rotten ratings — two people gave it a neutral score. While two tasters said there was no distinct smell, there were three very offended noses in the room: "It smelled like an old arts and crafts drawer with notes of paste and Play-Doh."

Thoughts on viscosity ranged from "somewhat watery" to "basically heavy cream," but overall, the taste was unanimously unpleasant. Participants said it reminded them of "something you're not supposed to taste. Like putty or something."

Others said it left "a weird taste in my mouth" and made them "self-conscious about my after-milk breath."

After tasting and examining all the cups of straight-up milk and alt-milk, we decided to see how each tasted in coffee, a common use for milk.

The top-ranking milk drink for coffee wound up being one of the alt-milks — and incidentally, one of the lowest-ranking drinks for consuming plain: the almond milk.

Tasters described it as having a tolerable — even enjoyable — amount of sweetness. Some said it tasted like ice cream or a coffee float and said they could see themselves drinking it every day.

The worst cup of coffee we tasted was the one featuring the oat milk. While there are loads of online arguments that disagree ...

Source: Man Repeller, Vox, The New York Times, TIME

... our tasters said, "it's so close to being really good but something about it just isn't." We thought it tasted "horrid," like paste, and that the alt-milk masked the coffee flavor to the point where "it doesn't even taste like a cup of coffee anymore."

One taster wrote: "It tastes unnatural, unpleasant, and something I'd never want to be subjected to again. It's a confusing, thick, and murky drink that does coffee — no matter how bad it may be — a disservice."

Next, it was time to try the cereal. We used Fruit Loops because of their distinct, fruity flavor, their ability to affect the flavor of the milk they're sitting in, and — of course — because they're fun to look at!

It was a close call, but ultimately the lactose-free milk and the soy milk tied for the winner of this category. While the lactose-free milk seemed to take on the flavor of the cereal best, the soy milk was the most delightfully sweet option.

But, some tasters noted the soy milk's inability to keep its texture: "It had a light viscosity, creating a weird runny contrast with the cereal and milk." Another said it looked gross.

The lactose-free milk didn't seem to have that problem: "It has a thick enough consistency to hold its own with the cereal, but it also creates the ideal cereal-milk combination."

Although we thought the oat milk was less horrendous after eating it with Fruit Loops, the smell, taste, and color were all still strong enough to be a turnoff.

We tasted some French toast next. The breakfast food was made that morning, so it was decently fresh.

There was no unanimous winner or loser for this round. It was pretty difficult to tell the difference between the dishes, so if you're making French toast this weekend, it doesn't seem to matter what type of milk or dairy substitute you use from a taste standpoint.

After all the drinking and eating, the four tasters who went into the tasting blind worked together to guess the order in which they tasted the milk and alt-milk — they numbered them from left to right. Tasters thought the skim milk was the first milk they tried and the lactose-free milk was the last.

Even though we got some colleagues to weigh-in on the ranking, there was still one more important test that the milk drinks had to pass: We had to try the foam.

If you're a coffee-drinker whose habits include more than just drip coffee with milk, you understand that the type of milk used for your foamy treat is a decision that can have cappuccino-ruining consequences. And if you're a pour-it-and-get-on-with-your-day customer, well, now you know the severity of the situation.

We went to our local barista and ordered steamed milk in the five different varieties they had on offer: whole, skim, almond, soy, and oat.

Each of these steamed milk and alt-milk options had very distinct pros and cons. The first thing we noticed was how each drink reacted to being steamed in the first place — sometimes the foam head would separate completely from the hot milk underneath like the oat and soy milks ...

... and sometimes it was a beautifully smooth transition from one layer to the next, like with the whole milk.

As cappuccino aficionados, we decided that from here-on-out, we're ordering our favorite afternoon snack and nightcap with whole milk only. The way it flowed from layer to layer, kept the creamy integrity of the milk itself, and created a 1/2-inch-thick foam head with barely-there bubbles was truly stunning.

If you're opposed to whole milk, and you enjoy the taste of almond milk, that is the next best option. It really keeps the integrity of the almond milk taste and features a 1/2-inch-thick froth on top — it's more of a bubbly froth than the whole milk's airy foam.

If you don't like the taste of almond milk, then skim would be the next-best choice. It had a foam head closer to 1/4 of an inch thick and had a more noticeable transition when sipping through the top layer to the bottom, more liquid layer.

The steamed soy milk separated into two distinct layers the fastest, but the taste was quite mild. The top layer was super frothy with tiny bubbles and closer to 1 inch thick — the thickest of all five. This was a no-go for us because of the separation, but if you want as mild of a taste as possible this is a fine, non-dairy option.

Lastly, again, is the oat milk. It had the same flavor steamed as it did cold, and the 1/2-inch-thick head nearly stands alone from the hot milk layer underneath. The foam is made of bubbles slightly larger than those in the whole and skim milks, which makes for a slightly more stiff and airy residue.

While we all expected to love oat milk solely because of the hype — just look at Oatly's epic-ly cleaver branding ...

... and we do appreciate that alt-milk companies like Oatly are trying to "help the food industry become more accountable for its actions" ...

Source: Oatly

... after tasting oat milk five different ways, we determined that it is without a doubt the loser in this lineup.

At the end of the day, we determined the best milk for steaming is whole milk, the best for coffee is almond milk, the winning choices for cereal are soy and lactose-free 2% milk, and the best for drinking straight is whole milk.