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Cosabella makes the only bralette I've tried that suits my petite, large-chested frame — here's why it's worth $66

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

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  • The Cosabella Never Say Never Curvy Sweetie Bralette ($65.50) is the only bralette I've tried that suits my petite, large-chested frame. 
  • It's comfortable and relatively supportive, especially considering the lightweight lace material it's made of and the pullover, hook-free design. 
  • Available in 25 colors and six sizes, there are a ton of options built for just about any wardrobe. 

Like most people, I'm rife with insecurity about different aspects of my body, personality, and so on. But the biggest acceptance battle I've had to fight throughout my life has to do with my chest. It's relatively substantial while the rest of me is … not.

I'm 4-foot-11, but I wear a 30G bra.

I've never loved having a large chest, but the feeling was especially acute when I'd spot those flimsy little bralettes with triangle cups fanned out in a rainbow of colors by the register at every mall store from Free People to Aerie. Every time I'd cave and take one of them into the dressing room, only to end up very nearly in tears.

Over the years I've tried several promising undergarments billed as bralettes for busty people. Still, something was usually off about them. The cups would cut into me at weird angles, creating visible lumps beneath certain tops, or the closures would more closely resemble an actual bra, making the bra less suitable to pair with backless tops or dresses with spaghetti straps. But then I came across the Cosabella Never Say Never Curvy Sweetie Bralette.

This is a real bralette, with no hooks or wires and an easy pull-on silhouette, only it's designed specifically for bodies built like mine (i.e. small rib cage,large cup size). Unlike similar styles made for smaller chests, the Cosabella bralette has adjustable straps, which are helpful for me and my short shoulder span. Mesh lining, an elegant sweetheart neckline, and hidden elastic around the band and the tops of the cups subtly shape your chest and provide the added support those of us with larger chests need.

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Read more: The best bralettes for a large bust

I own the bralette in black (goes with everything!), but there are 24 other colors available, ranging from Pink Lily to Tourmaline. The sizes currently run from petite to extra-large; Cosabella's size chart says the extra large is meant for 38-40 G-H busts.

Of course, this bra doesn't work under every kind of top or dress. Some of my clothing items are better served by the more pronounced lift and structure provided by an underwire bra, even if it's less cozy. But the Cosabella bralette has been a true game changer in my wardrobe. It's comfy enough to wear while lounging around at home and looks pretty underneath a light, airy top on a hot summer day.

Despite the minor drawbacks, the Never Say Never Curvy Sweetie Bralette is worth the $65.50 price tag. It's cozy and sexy, but also much more supportive and attractive under clothing than similar styles I've tried.

Pros: Supportive, adjustable straps, elastic band, wireless

Cons: Expensive, size range could be expanded

Buy the Never Say Never Curvy Sweetie Bralette for $65.50 at Cosabella

SEE ALSO: The best bras you can buy

DON'T MISS: Spanx has become synonymous with shapewear, but its bras are the company's hidden gems — here's why we love them

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55 clever and practical gifts for dad under $50

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

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Whether you're looking to rag on Dad or show him all the love and kindness in the world (which are really one in the same, right?), we've got affordable Father's Day gift ideas under $50 for every sort of dad, from the hapless car-key-losing fool to the history buff and the masterful (and not-so-masterful) home chef.

Whatever it is that Dad's into, something below is bound to make him smile, laugh, cry, or, hopefully, all of the above. You've been a pain and a nuisance all along — why change now?

If you're looking for more Father's Day gift ideas for 2019, we have you covered:

SEE ALSO: All of Insider Picks' Father's Day gift ideas for 2019, in one place

A sleek, eco-friendly lunch box

GreenLunch Bento 3-in-1 Bento Lunch Box, available at Amazon, $29.90

Don't send dad off to work (or school, as the case may be) with a brown bag. If you think it's embarrassing for you, it's definitely embarrassing for him.



A copper waiter's key

Wine Waiters Corkscrew, available at Williams Sonoma, $34.95

A nice piece for the bar to replace that ratty old plastic thing he stole from Holiday Inn before you were born and life was good.



A 3-month Amazon Prime membership

Amazon Prime membership, available at Amazon, 3 months for $39

He'll pick up on it. Just get him started.



An Amazon smart plug

Amazon Smart Plug, available at Amazon, $24.99

If the thought of talking to Alexa blew his mind, wait till he starts using these.



A coffee table book-ode to American whiskey

"The Art of American Whiskey," available at Amazon, $15.76

Whether or not dad's a drinker, there's some deep-seated American history in Rothbaum's collection that no one can deny.



An Anthony Bourdain cookbook illustrated by Ralph Steadman

"Appetites: A Cookbook," available on Amazon, $21.64

Because, according to both Jacques Pepin and this book's late author, no grown man should ever go without knowing how to cook an omelet. 



An avocado tree starter set

Avocado Tree Starter Kit, available at Uncommon Goods, $20

Setting these up will be almost as enjoyable as the fruits of his labor. And while it may take a while to yield, everybody wins with this gift.



The story of Bacardi, and the fight for Cuba

Bacardi: The Long Fight for Cuba, available at Amazon, $14.59

History and rum. What more intrigue does a dad need?



A folding bamboo laptop desk

Homfa Bamboo Laptop Desk with Tilting Top Drawer, available at Amazon, $29.99

Or a breakfast-in-bed tray, as he likes.



A set of beard oils

Grave Before Shave Beard Oil 4 Pack, available at Amazon, $39.99

Stop letting dad go out with that scraggly Jeremiah Johnson beard and get him some beard oil and balm to shape it up a little.



A chiller to keep his beer cold

Chillsner, available at UncommonGoods, $16.95

The stainless steel Chillsner fits easily into the bottle and keeps beverages refreshingly crisp.



Bottle locks to keep you out of the liquor cabinet

Tantalus Bottle Locks, available at Amazon, six for $99.90

So you can stop getting blamed for your younger siblings' delinquency. Then again, you might be shooting yourself in the foot with this one.



A carry-on cocktail kit to take the edge off the flight

The Carry On Cocktail Kit: The Old Fashioned, available at w&p, $24

Dad's sick of the same old scotch and soda he drinks on his red eyes. Help him change it up a bit.



A pillow just for naps

Casper Nap Pillow, available at Casper, $35

What's more precious to dad than his naps? Well, besides you...



A lava pizza stone

Italian Lava Pizza Stone, available at Williams Sonoma, $39.99

If he's using a baking sheet — or worse, nothing but tin foil — to make pizzas, there's no need to discuss it: It's time for a change.



A chambray and leather apron

Chambray Grey Apron, available at Crate & Barrel, $29.95

No more bacon grease stains on his favorite football jersey.



A comb for life

Chicago Comb Model No. 1, available at Amazon, $39

This will likely outlast his hair, but when it does, he'll look at it as a fond memory of his long-lost locks — of which, he'll dare not let you forget, you singlehandedly stripped him during your formative years.



A cooler cup

Hydro Flask 12 oz Insulated Cooler Cup, available at Hydro Flask, $24.95

One part beer koozie (fits a 12-oz., longneck, or tallboy), one part coffee mug, this will keep his beverage plenty hot or cold, wherever he may roam.



Cufflinks from recycled circuit boards

Reclaimed Circuit Board Cufflinks, available at Uncommon Goods, $49.95

For his inner computer nerd, whether he'll admit it's there or not.



An Amazon Echo Dot

Amazon Echo Dot, available at Amazon, $49.99

Richer and louder than ever before, the Echo Dot is maturing with a softer look and feel, just like — no, on second thought, he might not humor that one.



All-natural foot and shoe powder

Foot Sense Foot and Shoe Powder, available at Amazon, $13.78

A not-so-subtle gift for the whole family, but if there's ever a time to let dad know that his feet stink to high heaven, it's the holiday season.



A custom graphic map of his favorite city

Custom Map Poster, available at Grafomap, starting at $49

You can make one of your dad's hometown, his college town, his favorite travel destination, or the place where he got engaged or married — you're only limited by your imagination. 



A guitar pick punch

Pick Punch, available at Uncommon Goods, $25

If dad doesn't already play the guitar, it's time. There is no instrument more "dad" than the ax. But, just as he loses his keys, he'll constantly find himself in want of a pick. Make no mistake, this little tool will save him a few bucks over the years. Old gift cards and credit cards are fair game, but beware: so is your fake ID.



A handmade wooden back massager

Handmade Wooden Rope Back Massager, available at Uncommon Goods, $24

Dad could always use a massage, but this is for those times when no one is in the mood to give him one.



A Himalayan salt stone

Charcoal Companion Himalayan Salt Plate with Recipe Book, available at Amazon, $30

Heavy salting and charring might not be the best thing for dear old dad's body, but it is simply rhapsodic to his soul.



Himalayan salt tequila glasses

Himalayan Salt Tequila Glasses, available at Uncommon Goods, four for $28

More salt? Yes, we know. But if dad is anything of a tequila drinker, we're sure there's no better vessel from which to send (or sip) it down his gullet than these hand-carved salt glasses.



A kit to make his own hot sauce

Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit, available at Uncommon Goods, $35

Help dad ditch the Cholula and sriracha and tap into his creative side. Even if you've never seen it, it's there. We promise.



A hot toddy spice kit

Hot Toddy Kit, available at Uncommon Goods, $38

If he's being a Grinch or a Scrooge, nothing will put him in the holiday spirit faster (just don't forget to add the booze).



An exfoliating coffee scrub

Brooklyn Botany Arabica Coffee Scrub, available at Amazon, $14.49

Whether or not your father's blackheads are shaping into braille, this scrub will leave his skin soft and smooth. As for that stubbly five o'clock shadow? Have a look at one of our shaving kits.



A shaving kit with a badger hair brush and a thick ceramic soap mug

GBS Premium Men's Wet Grooming Shaving Set, available at Amazon, $28.45

Banish the electric razor from your house by reminding your dad how lovely it is to shave with a real razor, a fine brush, and thick, frothy soap from a mug.

Also, check out our buying guide to the best shaving supplies here.



An assortment of liquor and beer nuts

Beer & Bourbon Nuts, available at Uncommon Goods, $30

Because no dad should ever be left with beer or bourbon and no nuts.



All-American seasonings and rubs

Mount Rubsmore, available at Man Crates, $29.99

If dad's a grilling fiend, he'll love this. Check out other options from Man Crates here.



A classic French shellfish shucking tool

Opinel Shucking Tool #9, available at Amazon, $19.98

There may be no other single gizmo that will make dad feel more like a man than a shucking tool. A classic design that hasn't changed in, like, forever, Opinel has been making knives of all shapes and sizes for almost 130 years. This shucking tool is an all-in-one that can handle oysters and clams. 

For an oyster-specific knife, my personal favorite from spending a few months behind an oyster bar is the Dexter New Haven Blade that's available on Amazon for $12.



Adjustable silicone bands for organizing

Packbands Adjustable Straps, available at eBay, three-pack for $19.95

A solution to anything and everything from tools and loose wires to poorly packed suitcases.



A pizza stone

Heritage Black Ceramic Pizza Stone and Pizza Cutter Wheel, available at Amazon, $34.97

For making delicious homemade pizza — or, more realistically, reviving delivery leftovers. 



A faux succulent Bluetooth speaker

Succulent Speaker, available at Amazon, $19.97

No matter how black his thumb, there is no way he can kill this thing (at least, we hope).



A folding multitool for his inner chef

A Chef's Portable Multi-Tool, available at Uncommon Goods, $32

His campfire meals can only improve with this thing along for the trip.



A refreshing aftershave

Proraso After Shave Lotion, available at Amazon, $14

Help dad feel fresh and clean. He's getting old. Also, check out our buying guide to the best shaving supplies here.



A cheese making kit

DIY Mozzarella/Ricotta Cheese-Making Kit, available at Williams Sonoma, $25.95

Dad deserves artisanal mozzarella and ricotta made with love, even if he has to make it himself.



A cool way to enjoy whiskey

Corkcicle Whiskey Wedge, available at Amazon, $17.95

Skip the whiskey stones this year and get this eye-catching conversation starter instead. 



An illustrated book on sushi

"Sushi: Jiro Gastronomy," available at Amazon, $10.10

Inspiration for dad in the kitchen, or maybe just sushi smut. 



A key finder

Tile Mate Key Finder, available at Target, $24.95

A compact key tracker for your hapless car-key-losing fool of a dad is honestly a really thoughtful and practical gift.



A money clip full of tools

SmartRSQ 37-in-1 Wallet Multitool Card, available at Amazon, $19.99

If dad's a tool guy, he can't possibly not appreciate having one of these on him at all times. If he isn't, and if he never even uses the thing, it'll at the very least make him feel like he's MacGuyver.



Bison-down trail socks

United By Blue Bison Wool Socks, available at United By Blue, $38

Socks might seem boring to you now, but wait till you're a dad. Socks like these will be worth their weight in gold.



A nearly indestructible fishing rod

Ugly Stik Elite Fishing Rod, available at Amazon, $49.95

If dad's the kind of guy who breaks things (aren't all dads?), this is the fishing rod for him.



A set of Waterford whisky glasses

Marquis by Waterford Double Old Fashioned Glasses, available at Amazon, four for $39.99

Your dad's a classy guy, and even if he's not, he should be drinking from crystal — if not platinum — by now, if for no other reason than all the years he's had to put up with you.



A pair of durable stainless steel pint glasses that keep drinks cold for hours

YETI Rambler Stackable Stainless Steel Pint Glasses, available at YETI, 2 for $49.99

More things he can't possibly break or kill.



A sandalwood-scented starter shaving set

The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Starter Kit, available at The Art of Shaving, $30

In case you've been looking for a way to let dad know that it's time to shave that patchy, salt-and-pepper-colored thing that is growing on his face.



An outdoor fondue set

Fondue for Two, available at Uncommon Goods, $30

For "rugged" weekends in the great outdoors.



A huge custom cardboard cutout of your lovely face

3-Foot Cardboard Face Cutout, available at Amazon, $44.99

Lest he forgets his one and only pride and joy.

 



A hair-growth supplement with biotin

Good Guy Hair Growth Supplement with Biotin, available at Amazon, $13.57

You've cost him enough hair as it is. Help him save whatever he's got left, and appease his sweet tooth along the way.



A shiitake mushroom log kit

Shiitake Mushroom Log Kit, $30

Protein on a log? What's not to love? A harvest every six weeks for up to three years means you'll probably be reaping the benefits at some point, too. Consider this an investment piece, just like you.



A book to make your awesome dad even more awesome

This Is The Book to Give Your Dad: Everything an Awesome Father Wants to Know, available at Amazon, $13.52

Not that he needs it.



A life-proof wet/dry electric shaver and trimmer

Wahl LifeProof Wet/Dry Electric Shaver, available at Amazon, $36.28

Whether Dad's often running late and trying to cop a quick electric trim or shave with a wet face, or he's just downright rough on things, he should get some mileage out of this one.



Coasters made from reclaimed records

Upcycled Record Coasters, available at Uncommon Goods, $18

Remind him that vinyl will never go out of style, and neither will he.



It can be hard to find affordable wireless headphones that actually sound good — but this $100 pair fits the bill and then some

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

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  • I don't like dealing with complicated tech or specs.
  • But I do really like these simple, affordable wireless headphones by RHA that cost $99.95 on Amazon.
  • They sound just as good as my in-ear Bose SoundSports, and come with volume controls and a built-in microphone, too.
  • One year update: I still use these headphones every day for my commute and workouts. They've held up extremely well, continue to pair seamlessly via Bluetooth, and the sound quality still impresses me every time I use them.

I am pretty bad with tech. It's not that I don't know how to use it, it's just that I'm impatient; I hate setting up new gadgets, and I feel intimidated by all the language used to describe them. You'll never get me exited by talking about LED zones or OLED displays or any kinds of bits or bytes because I honestly have no idea what any of that means. 

So when I find a tech product that's affordable, relatively uncomplicated, and easy to incorporate into everyday use, I feel the need to share it. Such is the case with this pair of $99 MA650 headphones from RHA

This is the first wireless pair I've owned, and they've been extremely kind to me so far. It wasn't until I started using them that I realized how much of a pain it was to be physically tethered to my computer all day. (However, if you do appreciate wired headphones, RHA recently came out with a $60 wired version of these with an Apple-compatible Lightning connector that can be pre-ordered now.)

The setup for the MA650 is super easy, only requiring you to charge the headphones, turn them on, and discover them via Bluetooth on whatever device you're using. Once paired, you shouldn't have an issue connecting them. A year later and I haven't experienced a single Bluetooth-related issue.

The battery lasts a full 12 hours of use, which is pretty solid for wireless headphones, and there's a built-in voice notification for when it's running low and needs to be charged. Each pair also comes with a set of eight earbud styles you can swap around depending on the size and shape you prefer, which is something my tiny ears appreciate very much. 

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The flexible, sweat-proof rubber build is super comfortable, and the built-in remote and microphones work like a dream. The only annoyance is that it strains my eyes a bit to see the controls since they're pretty close to my face, but the more I use the headphones and get a feel for where all the buttons are, the less I need to look at it to make sure I'm pressing the right thing. 

RHA offers two versions of their wireless headphones: the MA650 ($100) and the MA750 ($165). I've been using the MA650, but the advantage to the MA750 is the added feature of digital assistant control (which I don't particularly need for an additional $65). Also, I'm sure there's some sort of sound quality difference, but I haven't tested the MA750s so I can't speak knowledgeably about it. 

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The pair I usually use is the Bose in-ear SoundSports, which costs $99 and has excellent quality audio. The wireless MA650 is at a similar level, but the noise-isolating capacity gives it a leg up. Sometimes I have no idea that one of my coworkers is trying to talk to me until they frantically wave their hands around to get my attention — which, depending on how much you like your coworkers, could be both a pro and a con (for the record, I love my coworkers, and I try to keep the volume pretty low now so I'm never completely sealed in my own world). 

All in all, I'm just here to tell you that I really like these headphones. They're affordable, high-quality, wireless, and extremely comfortable. The sound competes with my Bose pair, and though not completely mind-blowing, it's pretty solid for small in-ear buds. If you're not super tech-savvy, or even if you're just looking for a good pair of wireless headphones, these are my personal recommendation. 

RHA MA650 Wireless Headphones, available on Amazon, $99.95

SEE ALSO: I no longer have to worry about my Wi-Fi speeds now that I have this blazing-fast $155 router

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Alexis Ohanian said he's joining 'natural hair' Facebook groups to figure out how to do his daughter's hair

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Alexis Ohanian and Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr

  • Serena Williams' husband Alexis Ohanian said he's joining "natural hair" Facebook groups.
  • He joked that he hopes they "don't auto-reject" him when they see his profile photo, because really he wants to "keep getting better at" doing his daughter's hair.
  • Ohanian and Williams have a 1-year-old daughter together called Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr.
  • And judging from Ohanian Jr.'s official Instagram account, Ohanian Sr. is clearly doing a great job.
  • Visit Business Insider's home page for more stories.

Alexis Ohanian has said that he's joining "natural hair" Facebook groups to figure out how to do his daughter's hair.

Ohanian, who cofounded Reddit and venture capital firm Initialized Capital, is the husband of 23-time Grand Slam tennis champion Serena Williams.

She gave birth to their daughter Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr. in 2017. It has been clear ever since that they are both smitten with their 1-year-old girl — Ohanian even said all of the words from Disney movie "Frozen" are stuck in his head because he's seen it 3,000 times.

Read more: Alexis Ohanian says he keeps a spreadsheet of everything he owns while Serena Williams, his wife, 'has no idea where all of her trophies are'

Alexis Olympia has already made appearances on Williams' Instagram account holding an adorable miniature racket bag, throwing a tennis racket around, and even getting used to the feel of a court.

As Ohanian Jr. gets older, her hair gets longer, and Ohanian Sr. wants to help her style it, so he told his Twitter followers he's joining dedicated Facebook groups and even watching YouTube videos to help him master how to do just that.

"Just applied to join four private Natural Hair Facebook groups," he said recently. "I hope they don't auto-reject my application when they see my profile photo. I told them it was to keep getting better at doing my daughter's hair."

In a later post, he said: "Daddy daughter Youtube accounts are the best."

Read more: Serena Williams inspires her Reddit co-founder husband's career in tech — and he says his marriage is 'a front row seat to greatness'

Judging by his daughter's Instagram, an account that has more than 500,000 followers, it looks like he's doing a great job.

Caption this

A post shared by Alexis Olympia Ohanian, Jr. (@olympiaohanian) on May 14, 2019 at 5:59am PDT on

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NOW WATCH: What it's like to go into sudden death with Tiger Woods

13 real-estate agents reveal the strangest and most extreme requests they've ever received from clients

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Business Insider asked real-estate agents around the country about what it's really like working in the industry, what they wish they could tell their clients, and the weirdest requests they've ever received from clients.

One agent said they were asked to show a home and conduct almost the entire sale process over FaceTime. Another was asked to install a listening device in a client's home so they could hear the prospective buyers' comments.

Many of the agents' strangest requests had to do with pets, from being asked to walk a client's dog before each showing to bringing a buyer's parrot through the house to make sure it was "comfortable" in the home.

Here are 13 of some of the strangest and most extreme requests real-estate agents have ever gotten from clients.

SEE ALSO: 10 things real-estate agents wish they could tell you — but won't

DON'T MISS: 11 things that make a home unsellable, according to real-estate agents

1. One client asked an agent to spy on prospective buyers.

Terry Hamilton (not pictured), who sells homes in Missouri and Kansas for an average $265,000, said one of the strangest requests he ever got was when a client asked him "to install a listening device in their home so we could hear the prospective buyer's comments."



2. One agent was asked to walk a client's dog every time he showed their home.

Boris Fabrikant of Compass, who sells homes with an average price of $1.5 million in Manhattan, says a client once asked him, "Can you walk my dog before each showing?"



3. One foreign buyer wanted to buy a home over FaceTime — and he did.

"The most extreme request I received was from a foreign buyer who asked me to FaceTime him for a showing from abroad," said Jared Barnett of Compass, who sells homes from $2 million to $5 million in New York City. "He ended up purchasing the $4 million apartment all cash without stepping foot into the home until the day of the closing!"

 



4. One client asked to use every bathroom in a home before buying it.

Kelly Robinson of Compass, who sells Manhattan and Brooklyn homes at an average of $3 million, said a client once told her: "I need to do my business in every bathroom before buying the home."



5. A seller wanted the buyer to take their pet along with the home.

Karen Benvenuto of Compass, who sells $1 million to $3 million homes in the Hamptons, said she once encountered "a seller that wanted the buyer to adopt their pet as part of the transaction."



6. The agent had to clean out a shed in a foot of snow because the homeowner forgot to do it.

Once, "a homeowner forgot to clean out the shed for the walk-through (left out of state) and there was about a foot of snow and we wheelbarrowed (in heeled boots) all the debris from the shed all the way in the backyard to the front yard to be picked up for garbage on the day of the closing," Lina Lopes of Douglas Elliman, who sells homes with an average price of $350,000 in Suffolk County, Long Island, told Business Insider.



7. A client asked agents to walk their parrot through the house to make sure it was "comfortable" there.

Richard Steinberg and Payton Smith of the Douglas Elliman Steinberg Team, who sells $10 million homes on average in Palm Beach and throughout South Florida, said the strangest request they've gotten "would have to be walking their parrot through the house to make sure it was comfortable!"



8. One buyer asked the agent to spray a hose on each home they looked at to see how it would sound in the rain.

"I was taking a buyer out in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and they were very adamant about finding a place of 'tranquility; quiet'... including from the rain," Jason Tsalkas, an agent at Compass who sells homes primarily in Brooklyn for between $650,000 and $2 million, told Business Insider. 

"So, for every place we saw, they asked me to turn on the hose from the outdoor space and spray the windows and outer-linings of the house as if it were raining to test the sound," Tsalkas said. "For the record, we found a place for them."

 



9. One buyer needed to be near a subway station with an elevator — and it was nearly impossible to find.

"Not so much strange as it was just something I hadn't thought about: I once I had a client insist on being close to a subway station with an elevator," Colin Turek of Compass, who sells homes in New York City between $800,000 and $2 million, told Business Insider.

"She had a bad back and accessibility was critical. Through the process of working with her, I realized that MOST stations do not have elevators and present other accessibility issues. The city needs to address this!"

 



10. A newlywed couple left behind a huge mess for their agent to clean up when they went on their honeymoon.

Maggie Ross of Compass, who sells homes in Brooklyn at an average $2 million, said her most extreme "request" was having to clean up after some newlyweds.

"I was once asked to host an open house in a small apartment after the wedding of the couple — who left for their honeymoon with a room full of half-smoked joints, beer bottles, and the wedding dress on the floor," Ross said. "Thankfully, I arrived early!"

 



11. One client refused to look at potential homes that were nearly homeless shelters or public housing.

"I am lucky, my strangest request to date was a buyer who wanted me to identify every public housing and homeless shelter in the neighborhood so that she could eliminate any nearby properties," Adam Feinberg, an agent at Anchor NYC who sells homes with an average price of $725,000, told Business Insider. "This is NYC — almost every neighborhood has these."

When Feinberg told her that he couldn't do that as it would violate fair housing laws and recommended she walk the neighborhood instead, she wished him luck and he never heard from her again.



12. A client insisted on going to view a house in a snowstorm.

Mitzie Newman, a North Carolina-based agent who sells homes with an average price of $135,000, told Business Insider that a client wanted to "to go view a home in a snowstorm (in NC!), because God told her it was the one."



13. An agent had to clean out one client's closet.

Eric Goldie of Compass, who handles sales in New York City for $1 million to $5 million on average, told Business Insider he once had to clean out a client's entire closet for them.

"From throwing out old luggage to folding their underwear," Goldie said. "It was one of the most humbling experiences of my career."



'What is the Amazon Fire TV Stick?': Everything you need to know about Amazon's flash drive-shaped streaming device

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The Amazon Fire TV Stick is a streaming video player sold by Amazon. Similar in many ways to the Roku Streaming Stick, the Fire TV stick is the entry-level product in Amazon's streaming media player family, priced at about $40.

The Fire TV Stick is shaped like an oversized USB flash drive and plugs directly into a TV's HDMI video input. Rather than storing files, though, it is a full-featured streaming player, able to turn any television with an HDMI port into a Smart TV.

What you can do with the Amazon Fire TV Stick

Amazon Fire TV Stick, $39.99.

Amazon says that the Fire TV Stick adds "tens of thousands" of channels to your TV. That includes all the streaming services you are most familiar with, including Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Netflix, and HBO Now, along with network TV apps, sports, and, of course, thousands of less common niche channels you may not be familiar with.

The stick comes with a remote control that has a built-in microphone for voice control. Because this is an Amazon product, you might expect that it has Alexa support, and you would be right – you can give commands to the Fire TV Stick using Alexa skills, and control all the home automation products (like the Ring doorbell, Philips Hue lights, and ecobee thermostat, among others) just as if you were talking to an Amazon Echo speaker.

What Amazon Fire TV Sticks cost

The Fire TV family includes the Fire TV Stick ($39.99) and the Fire TV Stick 4K ($49.99). The 4K version costs a little more and is identical to the Fire TV Stick except that it (as the name implies) works with 4K video. The original Fire TV Stick sends standard 1080p high definition video instead.

Amazon also sells the Fire TV Cube. Priced at $119.99, this media player includes a built-in speaker and a microphone that listens for voice commands from across the room – you don't need to talk into a remote control. While the two versions of the Fire TV Stick require Wi-Fi, the Cube is able to connect to Ethernet for faster, more reliable internet access. (It's possible to connect the Fire TV sticks to Ethernet with an optional Ethernet adapter.)

How to set up an Amazon Fire TV Stick

Setting up an Amazon Fire Stick is little more than a three step process.

You simply need to plug the Fire TV stick into its supplied power adapter and then plug the stick into your TV's HDMI video input. Then, turn on your TV and make sure it's set to the correct HDMI input.

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Finally, using the remote control, step through the welcome and setup instructions on the TV screen.  You'll need to enter your Wi-Fi password and log into your Amazon account.

After that, setup is largely complete; you'll just need to add and log into any streaming channels you use (like Netflix, Hulu, and so on).

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best streaming sticks and boxes you can buy

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: This startup turns 100 non-recyclable plastic bags into a high-end Bluetooth speaker

The youngest heirs and heiresses poised to inherit billions from their parents

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Bloomberg

From preschool toddlers to high-ranking executives, the heirs of some of the wealthiest are poised to inherit massive fortunes.

Many of the young heirs of famous billionaires, including the children of the richest people in tech and the richest people in business, will receive large inheritances, if they haven't already. Meanwhile, other billionaires have promised to give some, most, or, in Warren Buffett's case, all, of their wealth away.

Read more: 16 heirs to some of America's best-known brands who are poised to inherit millions

We looked at the 35 richest people and families using real-time data from Forbes' billionaire index. We listed those who have children under the age of 40 and ordered the list of heirs by their parent's wealth, beginning with Jeff Bezos — the richest person alive.

For the purposes of this list, we looked only at the billionaires' direct descendants and excluded grandkids. Notably, this methodology means that some high-profile billionaires' grandchildren — including François Pinault's grandson of the same name, Françoise Bettencourt Meyers' grandson who was called "The Prince of L'Oréal," and the Walton grandchildren — are not in the round-up.

Keep reading for a look at some of the wealthiest heirs.

SEE ALSO: 13 times the heirs to massive fortunes disappeared under mysterious or disturbing circumstances

READ MORE: Meet the Mars family, heirs to the Snickers and M&M's candy empire, who spent years avoiding the limelight and are America’s third-wealthiest family 'dynasty'

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the richest person, has four children with his former wife, MacKenzie Bezos.

In April, the couple announced they had finalized the terms of their divorce. The two have three sons and one adopted daughter together. Jeff Bezos has a net worth of $156.7 billion. Following the divorce, MacKenzie Bezos' net worth totals $36.7 billion, thanks to 25% of the former couple's Amazon stock.



Bill and Melinda Gates have three children together: Jennifer, Rory, and Phoebe. Their eldest is 23 years old.

Since founding Microsoft, Gates has accumulated a massive fortune of $96.5 billion. Now known for their philanthropy efforts, the Gates family is ranked No. 2 among the richest people. Previous reporting from Business Insider's Tanza Loudenback said that the couple's eldest daughter, Jennifer, attended Stanford University. An accomplished equestrian, she is now 23 years old.

Rory, the couple's only son, turned in 18 in 2017. His younger sister Phoebe, still in high school, attends the private Lakeside High School in Seattle.

Bill and Melinda Gates — along with the billionaire Warren Buffett — are responsible for the launch of the Giving Pledge, a pledge signed by some of the richest people who promise to give away the majority of their wealth. According to Business Insider's Áine Cain and Allana Akhtar, "Each of the Gates' kids will inherit about $10 million of their parents' $98.1 billion fortune, while much of the rest will go to charitable causes."



Bernard Arnault, the richest person in Europe, has five children. Three of his heirs are under the age of 30.

All but one of Arnault's five children are involved in his luxury-goods empire, LVMH. Arnault has two children in their 40s from his first marriage, along with three younger sons from his second marriage.

His younger sons are Alexandre, Frederic, and Jean. According to previous reporting from Business Insider's Katie Warren, Alexandre (age 27) is the CEO of LVMH's Rimowa luggage label, while Frederic (age 24) is a director at TAG Heuer — LVMH's largest watch brand. Bernard's youngest son, Jean, is the only heir not yet involved in the company.



The retail mogul Amancio Ortega also has two older children from his first marriage; his youngest daughter, Marta — his only child from his second marriage — is in her mid-30s.

Once the richest person, Ortega is now ranked sixth with a net worth of $62.7 billion from his clothing conglomerate, Inditex. Known as the Zara heiress, his 35-year-old daughter Marta is involved in her father's flagship company.

According to The Telegraph, "Marta acts as a senior creative consultant on all Zara Woman collections, and evidently has first pick of the new clothes before they hit stores."

Marta recently received a lot of attention from the press for her high-profile wedding, which was dubbed the "wedding of the year" by Spanish publications.



Oracle founder Larry Ellison has two children: a 33-year-old daughter and a 36-year-old son.

Ranked No. 7 on Forbes' billionaire list, Ellison's net worth exceeds $62 billion. Business Insider's Hillary Hoffower previously reported that both of his children already inherited millions of stock shares from their father's NetSuite and Oracle companies. In addition, Business Insider's Tanza Loudenback reported, "Ellison gifted his daughter Megan a multi-million dollar inheritance on her 25th birthday in 2011, which she used to found a production company, Annapurna Pictures."

Both children have become successful filmmakers: Megan Ellison was praised as one of Time's 100 most influential people in 2014 for her work on independent projects such as "Zero Dark Thirty," "Her," and "American Hustle," while David Ellison has been involved in major action movies including "Star Trek Beyond."

Larry Ellison has also signed the Giving Pledge. Previously reporting from Business Insider's Madeline Stone and Biz Carson said, "Larry Ellison has committed to giving away 95% of his wealth to charitable causes, especially to his medical foundation."



Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has two toddler daughters with his wife, Priscilla Chan.

Zuckerberg and Chan have two daughters together. The couple's first daughter, Maxima, was born in 2015; their second daughter, August, was born two years later in 2017. Zuckerberg's net worth totals $62.3 billion, making him the eighth-richest person.

Zuckerberg and Chan have both signed the Giving Pledge. Business Insider's Biz Carson previously reported that the couple plans to give away 99% of their Facebook shares to their joint Chan Zuckerberg Initiative.



Michael Bloomberg has two daughters, 36 and 40 years old, with his former wife, Susan Brown.

Bloomberg, the founder of Bloomberg and former New York City mayor, is the ninth-richest person, behind Zuckerberg. His net worth totals $55.5 billion, and because he signed the Giving Pledge, just a small part of his massive fortune will be passed on to his two daughters, Georgina and Emma.

Georgina was featured in the 2003 documentary "Born Rich."



Larry Page has two children, who are approximately 8 and 10 years old, with his wife, Lucy.

Google cofounder Page's children were born in 2009 and 2011. Business Insider's Rachel Premack previously reported, "Page is so private that we don't even know if the younger child is a boy or a girl. The older child is a boy."

Page founded Google in 1998 with fellow Stanford grad Sergey Brin. Another signer of the Giving Pledge, he is ranked No. 10 on Forbes' billionaire list and has a net worth of over $50 billion.



Mukesh Ambani is the richest person in Asia and has three children, all of whom are in their 20s, with his wife, Nita.

Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries, has a net worth of $50 billion.

All three of his children, Anant (age 23) and twins Isha and Akash (age 27), are involved with the company. Isha married the 33-year-old real-estate and pharmaceutical heir Anand Piramal in December 2018, which involved many extravagant events, including an engagement party on Lake Como, private performances from John Legend and Beyoncé, and a ceremony with 600 A-list guests. 



Like his Google cofounder, Sergey Brin has two children in elementary school. Brin was previously married to Anne Wojcicki, the CEO of 23andMe.

Brin and Wojcicki married in 2007 and divorced in 2015. The former couple has two children together. Their son, Benji Wojin, was born in 2008; their daughter, Chloe Wojin, was born in 2011.

The children are set to inherit a large fortune. Wojcicki's net worth is approximately $440 million; Brin's net worth totals $53 billion, making him the 14th-richest person.



Steve Ballmer has three sons with his wife, Connie.

Now retired, the wealthy Microsoft exec married his wife, Connie, in 1990. Together, the couple has three sons. Ranked No. 19 on Forbes' list of billionaires, Ballmer has a net worth of approximately $48 billion.

Ballmer served as Microsoft's CEO from 2000 to 2014. He owns the Los Angeles Clippers.



The tech mogul Michael Dell has four children with his wife, Susan — their eldest daughter is around 26 years old.

Since founding Dell Technologies, Dell's net worth has grown to $41.7 billion. Michael and Susan Dell have four children: a son named Zachary and three daughters named Alexa, Juliette, and Kira. All four were raised in the family's home — nicknamed "The Castle" — in Austin, Texas.

The couple's eldest child, Alexa, is in her mid-20s and engaged to the millionaire real-estate mogul Arshia Harrison Refoua. She works as an adviser to the Bumble dating app and has a massive Instagram following.



David Thomson — the heir to the Thomson-Reuters fortune — has six children from four marriages.

Ranked No. 27 on Forbes' billionaire list, Thomson's net worth is $32.5 billion.

He inherited his fortune from his grandfather, who founded the media and publishing company. The family is Canada's richest family. One of his daughters was cited as one of "Toronto's richest kids on Instagram."



Wang Jianlin, one of the richest men in China, has a son in his early 30s.

Jianlin's son, Wang Sicong, is the only heir to his $22.6 billion fortune. Previous reporting from the South China Morning Post said that while he has already inherited some of his family's wealth and works as an investor, he is not interested in leading his father's company.



15 astounding facts about Monaco, the tiny French Riviera city-state where 32% of the population is made up of millionaires

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monaco

Monaco, a sovereign city-state on the French Riviera, is known as a "Billionaires' Playground." The tiny city-state is famous for its lavish wealth, casinos, and glamorous events such as the Monaco Yacht Show and the Monaco Grand Prix.

With an area of just 0.78 square miles and a population of 38,300, Monaco is one of the densest countries in the world.

Here are 15 mind-blowing facts about Monaco, from the number of millionaires who live there to the number of police officers per resident.

SEE ALSO: What it's like living in Monaco, the glamorous city-state on the French Riviera that's home to a glitzy annual yacht show and where an estimated 1 in 3 people is a millionaire

DON'T MISS: Inside the ultra-luxurious Monaco hotel where celebrities, millionaires, and the yachting elite stay in rooms that cost up to $41,000 per night

1. With an area of just 0.78 square miles and a population of 38,300, Monaco is one of the densest countries in the world.

The tiny city-state is bordered by France and Italy.



2. Monaco is smaller than Central Park in New York City.

Central Park is about 840 acres or 1.31 square miles in size, making Monaco roughly 60% of the size of the world-famous park. 



3. Monaco is home to 12,261 millionaires in less than one square mile.

The number of millionaires increased by 12% between 2013 and 2018, according to the 2019 Knight Frank Wealth Report.



4. Almost one in three people who live there is a millionaire.

Business Insider compared the number of millionaires to the number of residents and calculated that more than 32% of the population are millionaires.



5. The average home in Monaco costs $4,560 per square foot.

That's higher than some of the most expensive housing markets in the world, such as New York City and Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, the average price pre square foot is $2,859, while in Manhattan, real estate costs an average of $1,773 per square foot, according to NeighborhoodX. 

For a small one-bedroom apartment in Monaco, buyers can expect to pay at least $1.6 million, Alexander Kraft, chairman and CEO of Sotheby's International Realty France–Monaco, told Mansion Global. 

Most "normal" apartments in the city-state cost between $2.2 million and $22.3 million, Kraft said, with the higher end penthouses going for more than $55 million.

And prices are only going up— they've jumped more than 18% since 2017, according to Bloomberg.



6. In 2017, the average home price in Monaco for a resale — not even new construction — was €4.5 million, or more than $5 million.

In the seaside Larvotto district, one of Monaco's most populous neighborhoods, the average resale price was more than $16 million.



7. Monaco has one police officer for every 100 residents.

Monaco claims to be one of the most high-security cities in the world, with a 24-hour video surveillance system that covers the entire town.



8. Citizens of Monaco, a city famous for its casinos, are forbidden by law from gambling.

The gambling ban for residents leaves all the gambling up to tourists and foreign residents.



9. Monaco's GDP per capita is $165,420— the second highest in the world.

Monaco is beat only by Liechtenstein. Tucked in between Switzerland and Austria, the German-speaking principality has a per capita GDP of $166,021, according to United Nations data.

Liechtenstein is about 80 times larger in area than Monaco.



10. Monaco is one of only four countries in the world with a GDP per capita higher than $100,000.

The other three are Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, and Bermuda.



11. More than 75% of Monaco's residents are foreign-born.

Only about 9,259 of Monaco's 38,300 residents were born there, according to the principality's official statistics.



12. Monaco has the highest average life expectancy in the world at 85.8 years.

Monaco's life expectancy edges out that of San Marino (85 years), Hong Kong (85 years), and Japan (84 years), according to World Bank data.



13. Monaco has a poverty rate of zero.

According to the CIA World Factbook, no portion of Monaco's population lives below the poverty line.



14. Monaco is home to one of the world's most expensive streets, which was once the priciest in the world ...

In 2008, the Wealth Bulletin, a Dow Jones site, named Avenue Princesse Grace the most expensive street in the world, with an average price of $17,750 per square foot.

The street is still one of the most expensive addresses in Monte Carlo, Monaco's most glamorous neighborhood, Edward de Mallet Morgan, a Knight Frank partner who specializes in the high-end residential real estate market worldwide, recently told Mansion Global.



15. ... and it's named for an American Hollywood legend who was also a princess.

Avenue Princesse Grace was named after Grace Kelly, the American Hollywood actress who married Prince Rainier III and took the title Princess of Monaco. After her marriage, the princess gave up acting to focus on charitable and cultural endeavors.

She died in a car accident in Monaco at the age of 52, almost 30 years after she became the Princess of Monaco.




32 of the hottest toys for kids of all ages, according to Amazon's Summer Toy List

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Osmo Genius Kit for Fire Tablet

  • School is almost out for summer, and that means your kids are going to start sitting around the house all day instead of going out and about.
  • We've rounded up a list of 32 toys from Amazon's Summer Toy List that are designed to encourage them to get outside, keep their minds active, and get together with a group of friends.
  • From shape puzzles and play kitchens to lawn games and sports equipment, they'll continually exercise their bodies and minds while home for the summer.
  • Many of the recommended toys are Prime eligible, so if you don't have a Prime membership yet, now's a good time to get one— especially as Prime Day 2019 is expected to feature tons of great deals this July.

School will soon be out for summer, and that means your kids are going to be spending more time at home and less time out and about. Throughout the summer, they're going to need toys that encourage them to get outside, keep their minds active, and get together with a group of friends. 

We've rounded up 32 of the best summer toys for children, according to Amazon's Summer Toy List. These toys are designed to keep their minds and bodies mobile through their time off from school. From shape puzzles and play kitchens to lawn games and sports equipment, you won't be asking them to get up and do something again.

With a wide spread of options that are great for children aged from birth through their early teens, these toys will help your kids have a summer they'll remember.

Here are 32 of the top summer toys according to Amazon:

A piano to teach your baby the magic of music

Baby Einstein Magic Touch Piano (12 months+), available on Amazon for $24.99

Dance to the music with your little one as they learn to match colors by following the sheet music or creating their own song. Maybe they'll be the next Taylor Swift.



A fitness tracker that helps you monitor their chore responsibilities

Garmin vívofit jr, Kids Fitness/Activity Tracker (4 to 9 years), available on Amazon for $55.69

Turn daily activity into a fun competition with this kid-friendly fitness tracker. The display can help them monitor their steps, sleep, assigned chores, and daily activity, while the parental app can help you monitor their daily activities and give them a gentle nudge on their chores.



Bring the basketball court to the pool

Swimline Cool Jam Pro Poolside Basketball (8 to 13 years), available on Amazon for $158.99

When ball is life the court can be anywhere. The multi-height adjustable hoop and regulation-size ball will ensure they'll be making free throws like Steph Curry all summer long.



An interactive toy to help with development

Melissa & Doug First Bead Maze (12 months+), available on Amazon for $13.99

Your child will stay engaged with this classic toy. Made from bright colors and various shapes, this beaded maze can help develop sensory skills, motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. 



A kit that can teach them to code

Elegoo Uno Project Super Starter Kit with Tutorial (14 years+), available on Amazon for $35

The easy-to-follow computer software will help them learn basic coding skills that can be uploaded to the physical switchboard. They can work towards programming a light show, setting a digital clock, or starting a motor. These skills can help them win the science fair once school starts again.





A car only a toddler can drive

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe Dino (18 months to 5 years or 50 lbs), available on Amazon for $59.99

Zip around the driveway with your child in this Dino mini-car via the parent-push handle. When they get a little older, you can remove the floorboard insert and let them power their "vehicle" themselves. 



A swing set for the backyard

Swing-N-Slide PB 8360 Ranger Wooden Swing Set (3 months to 10 years), available on Amazon for $342.01

Bring the park to your backyard with this swing and trapeze set. Each swing can hold up to 115 pounds and meets the ASTM safety standards for residential use.



A kid-friendly kitchen

KidKraft Uptown Kitchen Toy (36 months to 12 years), available on Amazon for $160.29

Their imagination can take off with this kitchen set that includes a replica refrigerator, freezer, oven, cabinet, microwave, and cordless phone. Warning: You might be left wondering where all your pots and pans have gone. 



A game the kids can play outside

Premium Ladder Ball Toss (14 years+), available on Amazon for $39.99

For tweens and teens, this lawn game is a great alternative to games that keep them locked up inside. Play it in the backyard or pack it in its carrying bag to take to the park, the fun can go anywhere.





Create crystals in their at-home laboratory

National Geographic Mega Crystal Growing Lab (8 to 13 years), available on Amazon for $29.99

Make science fun with this National Geographic crystal growing kit. Whether they are into chemistry or magic, they'll be excited to see how big they can get their crystal to grow!



A robot that can do it all

Mibro Really Rad Robots (5 to 15 years), available on Amazon for $26.51

Keep your child occupied for days with this friendly robot pal. Using the remote control, your child can speak through the robot, send it on spy missions to transmit nearby sounds, carry lightweight items, or play soccer with it. With so many functions, it will challenge your child to get creative with what Mibro can do.



A bouncy trampoline for toddlers to get out their energy

Little Tikes 3' Trampoline (3 to 6 years), available on Amazon for $53.13

Toddlers have lots of energy they need to exert throughout the day. Let them bounce their zoomies out on this 3-foot personal trampoline equipped with stability bar.



A soap-making kit

Klutz Make Your Own Soap Craft & Science Kit (6 years+), available on Amazon for $17.96

Decorate the guest bathroom with one-of-a-kind soap. Kids can create 10 different soaps from molds that include glitter, stickers, colors, and a delightful coconut papaya fragrance. You'll be proud and they'll be clean. 



A golf club set to help them go pro

Wilson Golf Profile JGI Junior Complete Golf Set with Bag (14 years+), available on Amazon for $123.58

Before the best of the best go pro, they start out with a set of junior clubs. Great for the driving range or the course, this set comes with six basic club sizes and a carrying bag to go with it. 



These car-pals made for the smallest of hands

Disney Baby Go Grippers Collection Push Cars (12 months+), available on Amazon for $23.49

Once your baby starts crawling, you'll never be able to stop them from moving around. They can now zoom around the living room with the help of these hand-sized Disney gripper push cars.



A pool floaty with a shaded canopy

SwimWays Baby Spring Float Activity Center with Canopy (9 to 24 months), available on Amazon for $31.69

Enjoy some (safe) fun in the sun with this interactive baby float. It comes with a removable canopy that offers sun protection equivalent to SPF 50 on the brightest of days. 



Turn their rock collection into a gem collection

National Geographic Hobby Rock Tumbler Kit (8 years+), available on Amazon for $59.99

They can take any old rock from the backyard and make it shine with this easy-to-use stone polisher. It also comes with an information guide and nine types of gemstones from around the world for the young geologist in them.



An interactive educational game that works in both the virtual and real world

Osmo Genius Kit for Fire Tablet (6 to 10 years), available on Amazon for $99.99

Transform your Fire tablet into a learning tool with this attachment that allows your child to play educational games in both the virtual world and the real world. From reading and math to art and problem solving, this system blends core learning subjects and playtime together.



A t-ball set that they can play with three ways

Little Tikes 3-in-1 Triple Splash T-Ball Set (24 months to 10 years), available on Amazon for $24.99

Get them ready for the big leagues with this three-in-one T-ball launcher. Either adjust the tee, self-launch the ball, or attach a hose for a water-powered pitch — each way can help them advance to a new level in the game.



Get them their first car

Rollplay W461-P 12V Chevy Silverado Truck Ride On Toy (3 years+), available on Amazon for $394.91

Their first car doesn't need to cost tens of thousands of dollars when you can get them this two-seater Chevy Silverado. Watch them cruise around at speeds up to 5 mph in their luxury, battery-powered vehicle.  



Become a wizard like Harry Potter by programming your wand

Kano Harry Potter Coding Kit (6 years+), available on Amazon for $77.50

Learn magic (or basic coding skills), to activate the wand like Harry Potter. Kids can work through more than 70 coding challenges that will allow their wand to virtually make feathers fly, goblets multiply, or create fire.  



A colorful toy that teaches hand-eye coordination

Melissa & Doug First Shapes Jumbo Knob Puzzle (12 months+), available on Amazon for $9.99

Give your kids their first puzzle with this 5-piece set. It will help them learn basic shapes like an oval, triangle, circle, square, and rectangle. Before you know it, they'll be tackling 1,000 piece puzzles.



A day at the beach without the traffic

Kinetic Sand Beach Sand Kingdom Playset (36 months to 5 years), available on Amazon for $17.99

Bring the beach home with this 6-pound kinetic sand sandcastle set. Build the strongest fortress then use the included tools to cut, dig, and rake your kinetic sand.



Figurines to gear up for the premiere of Toy Story 4

Toy Story Disney Pixar 4 Figures (3 years+), available on Amazon for $9.89 to $12.99

Gear up for the release of "Toy Story 4" with these character figurines of the most popular toys. Andy doesn't mind sharing Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Slinky, or introducing you to his new friends: Forky and Duke and Gabby Gabby.



Turn barbecues into a competition with this lawn game

Triumph 2-in-1 Three-Hole Bags and Washer Toss Combo (8 to 13 years), available on Amazon for $24.30

Lawn games are great for any summer party, and the whole family can get involved! Play bean bag toss or washer toss by aiming for the colored holes worth various points. 



Hold a concert in your home with this karaoke machine

Singing Machine SML385UW Bluetooth Karaoke System (8 to 13 years), available on Amazon for $69.99

Get the whole family involved or turn a sleepover into a concert with this karaoke machine. Play your favorite '90s music from old CDs or stream the hit of the summer via Bluetooth to put on the show of the century.



A magnetic fishing game that helps them count

Melissa & Doug Catch & Count Wooden Fishing Game (3 to 5 years), available on Amazon for $19.99

Now your kids can go fishing whenever they want with this magnetic fishing game that includes two rods and 10 fish. While they're playing, they won't even realize they're honing their hand-eye coordination and math skills.



A sewing kit that lets them create a pillow-friend

Klutz Sew Your Own Furry Llama Pillow Sewing & Craft Kit (10 months to 13 years), available on Amazon for $18.11

Bring to life a furry llama friend with this sewing kit. It includes pre-cut patterns and a variety of accessories so kids can create something totally unique to them. 



A go kart to race down the driveway

Hauck Lightning Pedal Go Kart (4 to 7 years), available on Amazon for $87.32

The driveway can be their racetrack on this self-pedal Go Kart. The side skid break can help them control their speed or safely stop the kart.



A gaming system they can use at home or on-the-go

Nintendo Switch (8 years+), available on Amazon for $299

Dock the Switch in the console for TV and multi-player fun or take it on-the-go. Wherever they are, they can play their favorite video games.



Construct a catapult using this kit

National Geographic Da Vinci's DIY Science & Engineering Construction Kit (12 years+), available on Amazon for $29.99

With this kit, kids can build their very own ballista, bombard, and catapult based off of Da Vinci's engineering drawings. Once complete, let their imagination take them to battle or compete in a competition of distance and strength.



A class racing game with Mario and Luigi

Super Mario Party for Nintendo Switch (6 years+), available on Amazon for $59.99

Get the party started with this twist on the classic four-player game. Your child can put their skills to the test in 80 brand new mini-games and tracks. 



Save up to 50% at Nordstrom, Outdoor Voices, and Levi's — plus 5 other sales happening now

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

We rounded up the eight best sales and deals happening online today, with savings at Nordstrom, Boll & Branch, Columbia, and Greats. For even more deals and savings across the web, check out Business Insider Coupons.

Boll & Branch

1. Save up to $580 on mattresses at Boll & Branch

Last year Boll & Branch introduced its first mattress, but it doesn't use traditional memory foam. Instead, the Boll & Branch Mattress uses a five-layer system of naturally derived materials that are designed to be comfortable, cooling, long-lasting, and overall better for the environment.  In celebration of Memorial Day, you can save 20% on all mattresses, which is up to a $580 savings. 

Shop the Boll & Branch sale now

Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale

2. Save up to 50% sitewide at Nordstrom

Twice a year, Nordstrom holds its Half Yearly sale with massive discounts across the site —  and it's happening now. Until June 2, you can save up to 50% on thousands of item including clothes, shoes, home goods, electronics, watches, handbags, and more. For more deals and savings at Nordstrom, visit Business Insider Coupons here

Shop the Nordstrom sale now

Outdoor Voices

3. Save up to 39% on Outdoor Voices Sport Kits

Popular athleisure and athletics brand Outdoor Voices just launched new kits that help you save on gear you need for the sports you love. For two days only, you can get Outdoor Voices' Sport Kits for $85 each — an up-to 39% savings. Each kit is made up of a top and a bottom for your selected sport. The selection includes women's apparel for running, hiking, or spinning, and men's apparel for training. 

Shop the Outdoor Voices Sport Kit now

Greats

4. Save 20% sitewide at Greats

Founded in Brooklyn and manufactured in Italy, Greats is a premium yet affordable sneaker startup that makes classic and minimalistic footwear. To kick off summer, the brand is having a sitewide sale. Now through May 27, you can save 20% on everything by using the promo code "SUNNY20" at checkout. 

Shop the Greats sale now

Columbia

5. Save 25% on outdoor gear at Columbia

This Memorial Day, Columbia is having a sale to help you prepare for adventuring outdoors this summer. Now through May 27, you can save 25% on select gear and apparel for men, women, and kids. For more deals and savings at Columbia, visit Business Insider Coupons here

Shop the Columbia sale now

levis jeans 16

6. Save 30% sitewide at Levi's

Levi's is definitely one of the most reliable brands for quality, long-lasting denim. Now through May 28, you can save 30% sitewide on its popular denim by using the promo code "FUNSUN" at checkout. To potentially save more at Levi's, visit Business Insider Coupons here.

Shop the Levi's sale now

Gap

7. Save 50% sitewide, plus an extra 20% at Gap

From business casual essentials like chinos and button-ups to warm weather pieces like bathing suits and sundresses, Gap has everything you need for work and weekends. While they regularly have sales, a really good one is happening right now. Until May 23, you can 50% sitewide, plus you can get an extra 20% off by using the promo code "WARMUP" at checkout. For more deals and savings at Gap, visit Business Insider Coupons here.

Shop the Gap sale now.

casper mattress military discount

8. Save 10% on any order with a mattress at Casper

Casper, the leading mattress-in-a-box startup, is giving customers a nice discount. Now through May 27, you can save 10% on any order that includes a mattress by using the promo code " MEMORIAL19" at checkout. To go along with your mattress, Casper also offers sheets, blankets, and pillows, bed frames, and nightstands. To potentially save even more at Casper, visit Business Insider Coupons here.

Shop the Casper sale now.

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2 years after angry Silicon Valley locals chanted 'build a wall' to keep the homeless out, Mountain View is reportedly cracking down on a growing RV camp outside Google's HQ (GOOG, GOOGL)

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  • Staggering rent prices in Mountain View, California have forced some residents out of apartments or houses and into more temporary dwellings, like vans or RVs.
  • Resentment from local homeowners has risen as the number of vehicles lining the streets continues to grow, and a "crackdown" on the city's homelessness has begun, according to a recent report
  • The most immediate concern for those living in the motor homes and trailers was a recent vote by the Mountain View city council banning vehicles taller than 6 or 7 feet tall from parking overnight on public roads.
  • As reported by Bloomberg, some of these residents whose future living situations are now limbo work at Silicon Valley's largest companies, like Google and Lyft. 
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

In Mountain View, California — where Google and several Silicon Valley tech companies call home — staggering rent prices have forced some residents out of apartments or houses and into more temporary dwellings, like vans or RVs.

Meanwhile, resentment from local homeowners has risen as the number of vehicles lining the streets continues to grow, and a "crackdown" on the city's homeless has begun, according to a recent Bloomberg report

The most immediate concern for those living in the motor homes and trailers was a recent vote by the Mountain View city council in March, which bans vehicles taller than 6 or 7 feet tall from parking overnight on public roads. According to the Mountain View Voice, that ban won't go into effect before late 2020 to help the city and its residents prepare. Still, concerns amongst the RV-dwellers is reaching new heights and major questions of where they will go remain unanswered. 

Read more:What life is really like in the most expensive place in the US, where the typical home costs $1 million and it feels like everyone works in tech

As reported by Bloomberg, some of these residents whose future living situations are now in limbo work at some of Silicon Valley's largest companies. One person interviewed is a security guard at Google who didn't want to spend almost her entire paycheck on the $2,500 per month it would cost to rent an apartment. Instead, she chose to rent an RV for $800.

Another was a Lyft driver who lives in an RV with his wife. Together they make around $100,000 per year, but after doing the math on what an apartment would cost in the area, decided they would rather be able to save for their future than spend it all on rent.

Major tech companies, like Google, often get the blame for putting increased demand on the housing market, and thus causing rent prices to skyrocket. Google specifically has donated millions towards homelessness initiatives in the Mountain View area, according to Bloomberg, including a local apartment development that offers affordable housing options. The 67 units in the project, however, will only put a small dent in the housing crisis local residents are facing. 

The issue also worsens when angry Silicon Valley residents are brought into the equation. According to Bloomberg, two years ago at a city hall meeting in nearby San Jose, those who opposed building more affordable housing chanted "build a wall," in reference to keeping the homeless out of their town. 

Read the full Bloomberg report here.

Do you work at Google? Got a tip? Contact this reporter via Signal or WhatsApp at +1 (209) 730-3387 using a non-work phone, email at nbastone@businessinsider.com, Telegram at nickbastone, or Twitter DM at @nickbastone.

 

SEE ALSO: Disappointing photos show what living in San Francisco on a tech salary really looks like

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NOW WATCH: Now that Google and Nintendo offer digital video games, GameStop could have the same fate as Blockbuster

Casper recently added springs to its all-foam mattress — here’s how it’s different and what sleeping on it feels like

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Casper Hybrid Mattress

  • A high-quality online mattress should offer supportive and comfortable options for a wide array of sleeping styles with a reasonable money-back trial period, since you still need to sleep on the bed to truly see if it's the right one for you. 
  • Casper has been creating quality beds since 2014, and I like the new Hybrid mattress, which includes memory foam and springs.
  • It provided the right amount of pressure relief when I slept on my side, didn't trap heat, and the reinforced edge support kept me from falling off when my wife decided to commandeer my side of the bed.
  • Though it's on the pricey side (currently starting at $850 on Casper.com), the mattress is backed by a 10-year limited warranty and you can try it risk-free for 100 nights. I'd recommend the mattress for people who sleep on their sides or backs, and who sleep hot, like me. 

Online companies continue to grab more of the market share from the brick-and-mortar establishments in the mattress industry. One of the leaders in the e-commerce space is Casper.

I recently had the opportunity to test the company's new Hybrid, a 2.0 version of its original memory foam mattress with inner springs and reinforced edge support. Below are my thoughts on the bed as well as comparisons to the all-foam Mattress.

Read more: Casper quietly updated its most popular mattress — here's what's new and what sleeping on it feels like

Design

The new Casper Hybrid is unique because it features four memory foam layers found in the flagship mattress as well as innerspring coils that are individually wrapped to minimize motion transfer for a 12-inch thickness. 

The foam is made without the use of ozone-depleting chemicals and is CertiPUR-US certified, which is something you'll want to look for since you're sleeping on the bed at least six hours a night. There's also a zip-off cover that's easy to clean and remove.

The Casper Hybrid is available in Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King; my wife and I tested the Queen. You cancheck out the Casper website for specs of each size; the weight of each mattress is particularly helpful since you might have to carry the box up a flight of stairs or move it between rooms. 

In case you wanted to try out Casper mattresses before you buy, there's a brick-and-mortar store in every major city nationwidewhere you can schedule a 30-minute sleep trial. Casper mattresses are also sold in more than 1,000 Target stores across the country.

Set-up process

By choosing in-home setup at checkout, you can have someone else take care of the setup. Casper sends someone to your home to set up your mattress, foundation, and bed frame, if you have one. The service also includes removal of the packaging along with your old mattress and foundation. It's a flat $149 for the cost of this service for any area, even in Lansing, Michigan where I'm based.

I decided to set up the mattress without help, which was made easier with the included unboxing instructions and took about five minutes. Once I broke the vacuum seal of the mattress, I could hear the pop-pop-pop of the springs expanding in their pockets.

I had a little bit of trouble moving the mattress around because it's heavier than your average mattress — the Queen weighs 106 pounds. Fortunately, I had my wife there to help. I strongly, strongly recommend having a friend or partner to help you with the unboxing process, or you can always choose the in-home setup option.

I didn't sleep on the Casper Hybrid right away. Instead, I waited a couple of nights to let it air out since memory foam usually has an initial odor to it. After that initial waiting period, the odor went away.

The Casper Hybrid is designed to work on all standard bases. I just slept with the mattress on a low-pile carpeted floor since I was in the process of testing multiple mattresses and wanted to keep as many factors consistent as possible.

Read more: I switched to a Casper adjustable bed frame — and it relieved both my swollen legs and nighttime indigestion

What makes it stand out

If you want to know if a mattress is right for you, the only way you can know for sure is to sleep on it for at least a couple of weeks — this is why a risk-free trial is important. Thankfully, Casper lets you try out its mattresses for 100 nights.

If the mattress isn't right for you, you can call the company and it'll have a local recycling center or charity pick it up; Casper won't take a mattress and put it back on the (online) selling floor. The full refund should hit your account within two weeks, though the time frame would depend on your credit card's processing windows as well. Casper doesn't take out any shipping or restocking fees from the refund either way.

I'm a hot sleeper, but I never overheated while sleeping on the Casper Hybrid. Granted, I was testing the mattress mid-spring and temperatures were still quite cool at night, but I could tell that the bed did an excellent job of dissipating heat instead of trapping it.

The edge support of the Casper Hybrid is good, but not amazing. There is a fair amount of give as you lay on the very edge, but I never felt like I was going to fall off when my wife slowly invaded my side of the bed. The edge support is good enough for couples sharing a bed, but you may want to sit on a chair in the mornings when putting on your socks rather than the side of the bed.

CasperHybrid Material VP

I'm a side sleeper with stomach sleeping tendencies, and this mattress is ideal for me. The Casper Hybrid is less firm than the industry average which has the right amount of give to keep my spine aligned. And I never woke up with lower-back pain, which is a common ailment for my sports-battered body. The softness of the mattress does require me to add an extra low-pile pillow for more head support though.

Like other Casper mattresses, the Hybrid is covered by a limited 10-year warranty. If the mattress develops major indentations, deterioration, has manufacturing defects, or physical flaws, the brand will fix or replace your mattress entirely. The warranty is in effect as long as you use a supportive foundation, handle the mattress properly, and the problems arise through normal usage.

Read more: The best mattresses you can buy

Cons to consider

Unlike the all-foam Mattress, the Hybrid does not do a good job of dampening motion transfer.

To test this, I placed a soda can in the center of the mattress. Then I dropped a 20-pound weight from four feet above the mattress so that it landed 12 inches from the soda can. Each time I tested, the soda can fell over.

I could also feel my wife shifting positions throughout the night. Full disclosure — my wife is tall and likes to sprawl, but for mattresses I've tried that have passed the motion transfer test above, her tossing and turning was not an issue. To me, this suggests that the Hybrid may not be ideal for light sleepers who share a bed with others. Instead, you might want to consider the regular all-foam Casper mattress, which performed well in my motion transfer tests.

The bottom line

Overall, I really like the Casper Hybrid mattress. Though the motion transfer properties could be better (especially for the high price), the softer feel offers comfort and support as I sleep on my side. The edge support keeps me on the bed even when my wife is crowding my space. And the foam does an excellent job of dissipating the heat I put off in the night.

  • So should you buy the Casper Hybrid? Maybe. Since the Casper Hybrid is softer than your average mattress, it's ideal for people who sleep on their sides. Too-soft mattresses can cause back problems in heavy individuals, but at 6-feet tall and 250 pounds, I'm decidedly overweight and was fine. I would also say this mattress is ideal if you're a side sleeper who tends to sleep hot — especially if you (luckily) don't share a bed with anyone.  
  • Which size should you get? There are two factors to consider when choosing a mattress size — the size of your bedroom and how big or heavy you and/or your partner are. If you're smaller and plan on sleeping alone, the Twin may be good enough for you. Otherwise, if you're tall or bigger and sleep alone, consider the Twin XL and Full respectively. If you share a bed with another person or just like to have plenty of room to move around, go with a Queen, King, or Cal King. Queen is good enough for a couple. But, for bigger people like my wife and I, we tend to prefer a King or California King. For comparison, the Cal King is longer than a King but the King is wider.
  • What model should you choose? As mentioned, Casper offers five mattress sizes and three styles, all in foam or hybrid options. I've also tried the standard all-foam Casper, which is firmer and has better motion transfer dampening than the Hybrid. This makes it a great pick for stomach and back sleepers, especially if you share a bed with others. 

If you're on a budget, the Casper Essential (starting at $450) mattress may be your best bet, since it's the least expensive offering. There are three layers of premium foam that total to 11-inches thick. This might be a good option for a guest room or youngsters.

The Wave is Casper's premium offering, starting at $1,375. The 13-inch-thick mattress has five layers of foam, including supportive gel pods that help align your spin and support your hips and core. If you have a little extra to spend, this mattress suits a broad array of sleepers.

Regardless of which mattress you choose, you can rest easy knowing that you can always return it within the first 100 nights if you find it's not right for you.

  • Pros: 12-inches thick with four breathable foam layers and supportive coils, great for side sleepers, good edge support, 100-night risk-free trial
  • Cons: Expensive, failed motion transfer test, hard to lift and rotate because of mattress weight, edge support is good but not amazing

Buy the Casper Hybrid mattress from Casper for $850 (Twin) to (King and Cal. King)

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NOW WATCH: Here's what can happen if you hold your pee too long

How to change your account username on a Mac computer, if you bought a pre-owned Mac or otherwise need a name change

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2016 macbook pro

  • To change your Mac account's username, you'll need an additional admin account on your Mac. If you don't have one, you'll have to create one before changing your username.
  • First, you must rename the home folder that contains all of your Mac's data.
  • Then, you can change your Mac account username in System Preferences, as well as the name you see on the login page.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Whether you've just gotten married and adapted a new last name, you've decided to coin your computer account something other than your usual moniker, or you've purchased a pre-owned laptop that hasn't been wiped, changing your Mac account's username is a relatively simple process once you know how to do it.

But in order to completely change the username on your Mac, you'll have to rename both your home folder (where all your user data is saved) and your account.

Note that this new username can't have any spaces in it — it has to be in the form of one word, like "christinekopaczewski," for example.

Here's how to get started:

How to set up another admin account on a Mac

Before you can start, you'll need to make sure you have another admin account on your Mac. If you do, then you can skip to the "How to rename the home folder on a Mac" section below. If you don't have another admin account on your Mac, you'll have to set one up before starting the user name change process.

If you have other users on your Mac, but you're the only admin, you'll have to give another account admin privileges (you can always remove them later).

1. Log into your account.

2. Open the Apple menu and go to "System Preferences." It may also be pinned to your menu bar (it's the grey gear).

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3. Click on "Users & Groups."

4. Click the lock in the bottom left corner and enter your password.

5. In the box on the left of the window, select the user that you want to set as an admin. It'll be listed under "Other Users."

6. Tick the box to "Allow user to administer this computer."

changing mac username 2

If you're the only user on your Mac, then you'll need to create a new admin account.

1. Follow the above instructions to get to the "Users & Groups" window.

2. Click the lock in the bottom left corner and enter your password.

3. Click the + in the bottom left corner (above the lock).

4. In the drop-down box, at the top of the pop up, select "Administrator."

changing mac username 3

6. Give the new user a name (for example, Admin), a name for the home folder and a password. Then click "Create User."

Now you're ready to start changing the user name on your Mac.

How to rename the home folder on your Mac

1. Completely log out of your account by going to the Apple menu and clicking "Log Out Your User Name..."

2. Log into another admin account on your Mac.

3. From the desktop, click "Go" on the top menu bar.

4. Click "Go to Folder."

5. A pop-up window will appear. Enter /Users and click "Go."

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6. A window will appear showing the home folders of all of the users. Right click (or Ctrl+Click) on the folder with your user name on it (the one you want to rename) and click "Rename."

7. Change the name of the folder to whatever you want your new username to be, without using any spaces. So, if your name is "Christine Kopaczewski" (doubtful, since it's mine!) you would name your folder "christinekopaczewski" with no spaces.

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8. A pop-up window will ask you to enter your admin account password in order to make the change. Enter the password and click "OK."

How to rename the account username on your Mac

1. While still logged into the other admin account, go to the Apple menu and click on "System Preferences."

2. Open "Users & Groups."

3. Click the lock in the bottom left corner and enter your password.

4. There'll be a list of users on the left (above the lock). Right click (or Ctrl+Click) on the user you want to rename and choose "Advanced Options."

5. Change the "Account Name" to whatever you named your home folder, for me this is "christinekopaczewski."

6. Change the address in the "Home directory" field to match the location of your home folder, for example "/Users/christinekopaczewski."

7. Change the "Full Name" field to be your full name.

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8. Click "OK" and then restart your Mac to make the changes.

9. Once the Mac has restarted, log into the account you just changed and verify that all of your old folders and files are visible and linked correctly.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best laptops you can buy

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The REI anniversary sale is like Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined for people who love the outdoors — here are 10 deals to jump on now

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Yeti Rambler

  • REI sells just about everything you could want for outdoor adventures and right now, it's holding a great anniversary sale.
  • Many items are reduced by up to 50% without needing a separate discount code, and members can use "ANNV19" to get 20% off one full-price item and 20% off one outlet item.
  • We've listed 10 deals on some of our favorite tried-and-tested outdoor gear and have a list of 20 other amazing deals here, but there are thousands more to be found on rei.com

The REI anniversary sale is like Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined for people who like to spend their free time outside.

Not only are thousands of products currently discounted, but members can also take 20% of any one full-priced item and one outlet item. It's a great time to stock up on goodies for summer adventures, replace that punctured sleeping bag, pull the trigger on the bike you've been eyeing all spring, or just grab a cooler for beach days.

Have no fear though, the sale lasts until May 27 and is accessible in store and online.  

Here are 10 heavily reduced items from the REI anniversary sale: 

Rab Nebula Pro Insulated Jacket

Rab Nebula Pro Insulated Jacket, $191.73 (originally $275)

I've worn a Rab jacket everywhere from Alaska to Arizona. But don't be fooled by the understated design of these reliable down jackets — they're packed thoughtful design details.

The Nebula uses synthetic down to keep you warm, relies on quality YKK zippers, and has draw cords to stop cold air sneaking in between you and your jacket. If you go out in the cold, this is a great choice — especially if you don't care for the Day-Glo shades of many other outdoor jackets. 



Garmin inReach Mini 2-Way Satellite Communicator

Garmin inReach Mini 2 Way Satellite Communicator, $299.99 (originally $350)

This might be the best sports tech product I've come across in years — something the size of a matchbox has never made me feel so secure.

I've used the inReach Mini to text my wife from a glacier in Alaska, trace a route through waist-deep snow in the High Sierra, and relied on it for backup on long bike trips in the desert. The device provides mapping, SOS calls, and two-way communication from anywhere on Earth, meaning that you can tell rescuers what kind of help you need or just tell your partner how nice the views are in the Mongolian desert. It's a must have for big adventure trips.



Black Diamond FreeWire Quickdraw Quickpack

Black Diamond FreeWire Quickdraw Quickpack, $59.89 (originally $79.95)

It's rare to find a good quickdraw set for under $10 a piece. These Black Diamond quickdraws have a polyester dogbone and wiregate carabiner that clips reliably. You might find cheaper quickdraws, but I can't think of anything else in this price range that I would trust with my life.



Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 1 Tent

Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 1 Tent, $279.73 (originally $349.95)

Big Agnes is my go-to brand for lightweight tents.

This UL 1 comes in at under 2 lbs, offers enough space for large campers, pitches quickly, and unlike superlight trail shelters, is freestanding so it doesn't rely on stakes for structure and has a separate rainfly.

This is a great choice for solo backpackers looking to log big trail miles this summer.

 



ENO DoubleNest Hammock

ENO DoubleNest Hammock, $52.39 (originally $69.95)

Eno's Doublenest is the undisputed king of camping hammocks. I have slept in one on rock faces in Northern California and in pine forests along the Pacific Crest Trail, and also in the park on a lazy Sunday.

This hammock is great for your backyard or the backcountry, and pitches easily and packs down into a softball-sized bag. Read our full review of it here.



Big Agnes King Solomon 15 Double Sleeping Bag

Big Agnes King Solomon Double Sleeping Bag, $322.39 (originally $429.95)

I have spent more nights in this bag than any other one so far this spring. My wife and I use it in our truck top tent and, even when I'm traveling alone, it's become a go-to thanks to its warm 650 fill-power, spacious interior, and integrated pad sleeve.

The bag isn't much heavier than two comparable single bags, and for me, there's nothing better than sharing the outdoors with someone you love.



YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle - 26 fl. oz.

Yeti Rambler, $29.99 (originally $40)

The Yeti Rambler keeps water cold for hours without getting clammy or sweaty, delivering reliable and durable performance wherever you take it. Available in a color that matches your personality, or as a neutral base for your sticker collection, the Yeti Rambler looks as good at the office as it does in the Sierras. 



Osprey Katari 7 Hydration Pack - 2.5 Liters

Osprey Katari 7 Hydration Pack - 2.5 Liters, $56.19 (originally $75)

This is my pack of choice for long gravel races and trail runs. 

It carries a lot of liquid in a small package, doesn't bounce around, and has just enough space for your essentials. I'll be rocking one at the 200 mile Dirty Kanza gravel race this year, but they're also great for less extreme adventures where you want to stay hydrated and don't need much more than an outer layer and a few snacks in your pack. 

The bag is advertised as a men's bag, but it's definitely not — both men and women can use it.



Thermarest NeoAir All Season SV Sleeping Pad

Thermarest NeoAir All Season SV Sleeping Pad, $127.73 (originally $159.95)

Sleeping pads can be hard to pick, but this one has become one of my favorites. It features mid-level insulation and a speed valve to accelerate inflation, and the pad feels more comfortable in use than any other I have tried.

At a packed size of 4.5 x 9 inches, it's hardly considered bulky and has become my go-to for backpacking trips.  



Cannondale 700 Synapse Carbon Disc SE Apex 1

Cannondale 700 Synapse Carbon Disc SE Apex 1, $1,999.73 (originally 2,499.99)

Cannondale's Synapse is a highly versatile bike, and this SE build takes advantage of that.

Big tires make roads more comfortable and give you the option of riding on less rocky gravel and dirt roads. The simple single chainring setup is great for beginners and offers low maintenance, high performance, and great value.

The frame is still race ready thanks to some clever geometry tweaks and a vibration-absorbing seat-post. In short, if you've been wanting to buy a drop bar bike, you won't find a better value or more versatile option.



Here's how much an iPhone XS costs in 25 different countries

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If you're planning a trip to Rio next month, keep your phone safe — or it'll cost you.

Deutsche Bank released its annual "Mapping the World's Prices" report, which breaks down cost differences around the globe for things like monthly rent, hotel rentals, gas prices, haircuts, and more.

Nearly all countries in the Deutsche Bank survey sold iPhone XS's for more than the US price, except for Nigeria (for reasons they "can't quite explain.") Brazil had the highest price at $2,050, 64% more expensive than in the US.

Read more:The 25 most expensive cities around the world to rent a two-bedroom apartment

In America, the iPhone XS costs about $1,251. Apple released the iPhone XS, an upgrade to its iPhone X, last fall. The new phone runs faster, contains more storage, and has a better battery life than its previous version.

Here are the 25 most expensive places to purchase an iPhone XS, marked in US dollars.

SEE ALSO: The 25 most expensive cities around the world to rent a two-bedroom apartment

25. Austria: An iPhone XS costs $1,469

Relative to US price: 117%

Relative to iPhone 8: 155%



24. Mexico: An iPhone XS costs $1,477

Relative to US price: 118%

Relative to iPhone 8: 152%



23. France: An iPhone XS costs $1,479

Relative to US price: 118%

Relative to iPhone 8: 155%



22. Spain: An iPhone XS costs $1,480

Relative to US price: 118%

Relative to iPhone 8: 155%



21. Netherlands: An iPhone XS costs $1,480

Relative to US price: 118%

Relative to iPhone 8: 155%



20. Belgium: An iPhone XS costs $1,480

Relative to US price: 118%

Relative to iPhone 8: 155%



19. United Kingdom: An iPhone XS costs $1,483

Relative to US price: 119%

Relative to iPhone 8: 153%



18. Philippines: An iPhone XS costs $1,484

Relative to US price: 119%

Relative to iPhone 8: 158%



17. Poland: An iPhone XS costs $1,487

Relative to US price: 119%

Relative to iPhone 8: 154%



16. Czech Republic: An iPhone XS costs $1,492

Relative to US price: 119%

Relative to iPhone 8: 153%



15. Ireland: An iPhone XS costs $1,502

Relative to US price: 120%

Relative to iPhone 8: 153%



14. Portugal: An iPhone XS costs $1,502

Relative to US price: 120%

Relative to iPhone 8: 152%



13. Finland: An iPhone XS costs $1,502

Relative to US price: 120%

Relative to iPhone 8: 153%



12. Italy: An iPhone XS costs $1,514

Relative to US price: 121%

Relative to iPhone 8: 153%



11. Denmark: An iPhone XS costs $1,529

Relative to US price: 122%

Relative to iPhone 8: 153%



10. Norway: An iPhone XS costs $1,533

Relative to US price: 123%

Relative to iPhone 8: 155%



9. Egypt: An iPhone XS costs $1,537

Relative to US price: 123%

Relative to iPhone 8: 141%



8. Sweden: An iPhone XS costs $1,541

Relative to US price: 123%

Relative to iPhone 8: 155%



7. Bangladesh: An iPhone XS costs $1,545

Relative to US price: 124%

Relative to iPhone 8: 130%



6. Russia: An iPhone XS costs $1,586

Relative to US price: 127%

Relative to iPhone 8: 155%



5. Greece: An iPhone XS costs $1,591

Relative to US price: 127%

Relative to iPhone 8: 124%



4. India: An iPhone XS costs $1,635

Relative to US price: 131%

Relative to iPhone 8: 141%



3. Argentina: An iPhone XS costs $1,776

Relative to US price: 142%

Relative to iPhone 8: 180%



2. Turkey: An iPhone XS costs $1,880

Relative to US price: 150%

Relative to iPhone 8: 158%



1. Brazil: An iPhone XS costs $2,050

Relative to US price: 164% 

Relative to iPhone 8: 169%




How to unlock your Mac computer with an Apple Watch using the 'Auto Unlock' feature

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how to unlock mac with apple watch

You probably purchased your Apple Watch for its activity tracking, or to easily use Apple Pay. But its advancements are growing year by year.

Did you know that you can now unlock your Mac with your Apple Watch? Apple's recent "Auto Unlock" feature allows you to unlock your Mac just by sitting down in front of it with the watch on your wrist, if you have compatible devices. Pretty cool, right?

If you want to try the new function for yourself, make sure you can answer "yes" to the following questions. Then, read on to learn all about "Auto Unlock."

How to tell if you can use 'Auto Unlock'

Are your devices compatible?

  • Your Mac must be running macOS Sierra or later and have been manufactured in 2013 or later.
  • If you have an original Apple Watch, or a Series 1 or 2, it must be running watchOS 3 or later.
  • Apple Watch 3 requires watchOS 4, and the compatible Mac must be running High Sierra.
  • Apple Watch 4 ships with watchOS 5 and also requires High Sierra on your Mac.

Are they signed in to the same iCloud account?

Make sure your Mac and your Apple Watch are signed in to the same iCloud account. You'll also need to have two-factor authentication set up on your iCloud account (this is different from two-step authentication). This requires your iPhone to be running iOS 9 or later.

Do both devices have a passcode?

Ensure both devices have a passcode set up. If you don't use Apple Pay, you may not have set one up for your Apple Watch. You can set a passcode using the Watch app on your companion iPhone.

Are you wearing your Apple Watch?

Make sure your Apple Watch is on your wrist and that it is unlocked. Your Mac will then be able to detect the device and turn on "Auto Unlock."

How to turn on 'Auto Unlock' and unlock your Mac with an Apple Watch

Now that you know you have two compatible devices prepared, turning on "Auto Unlock" is a painless process:

1. Log in to your Mac.

2. Open to the Apple menu in the top left corner of your display.

3. Click "System Preferences." It may also be pinned to your menu bar (it's a grey gear).

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4. Open "Security & Privacy."

5. Click on the "General" tab at the top of the window.

6. Click the lock in the bottom left corner, enter your admin password and click "OK."

7. Tick the box that has the description "Allow your Apple Watch to unlock your Mac." Note: if you don't see this option, it's because your Mac isn't detecting your Apple Watch. Go through the preparation questions above.

how to unlock mac with apple watch

8. You will now be able to unlock your Mac just by wearing your Apple Watch near your Mac. 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: How to change your account username on a Mac computer, if you bought a pre-owned Mac or otherwise need a name change

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: I tried $600 smart glasses and learned why they haven't replaced smartphones yet

How to properly clean any iPhone model without damaging your device

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how to clean iphone

  • If your iPhone comes into contact with liquid, dirt, dust, grease, chemicals, or other substances, time is of the essence in cleaning it.
  • Apple does not recommend the use of any cleaning products, which may cause your phone more damage than they do good.
  • iPhone 7 and later models are water- and dust-resistant, so in most cases a spill or splash won't cause much damage, but you should still dry your phone quickly.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Your iPhone is probably not your cleanest possession. In and out of your purse or pocket, set down on tables and desks all over town, constantly handled by you and likely by others — our smartphones are constantly exposed to germs, dust and dirt. And that's not even considering that cup of coffee, glass of water, beer, or other beverage that's just waiting to spill, or the condiments waiting to drip on it.

Periodically cleaning your iPhone is a good idea both from a health standpoint and an appearances standpoint (it's nice to have a phone that doesn't look... soiled). And if you spill something on your phone, cleaning it soon is critical to ensure it keeps on working.

While all models of iPhone from the 7 forward are water- and dust-resistant, they can still be damaged by liquids and little particles, especially as the seal at the port where the lightning cable connects wears down over time.

Read more:How to tell if your iPhone is waterproof or water-resistant, and to what extent

To clean your iPhone, use a soft, lint-free cloth (a clean t-shirt will do in a pinch) slightly moistened with water, and that's it. No glass cleaner, baby wipes, soap, or anything. If you feel you must disinfect the phone, use a solution of 50:50 water and isopropyl alcohol, and apply it lightly using the dampened cloth.

Here's how to clean an iPhone, provided it's a 7 or later, whether for a quick spill cleanup, or to remove the built up smudges and grime.

How to clean an iPhone 7 or later

1. Remove your phone case.

2. Turn the phone off and disconnect any attached cables. 

3. Gently moisten your lint-free cloth with water.

how to clean iphone

4. Wipe lightly at the phone, applying minimal downward pressure.

5. Dry the phone with another clean cloth as soon as you are done.

And that's it. If you feel your phone needs a deeper cleaning, or if something is stuck in the port, it's probably best to check out our article, "How to properly clean your iPhone's charging port when it won't charge," or perhaps head to an Apple Store.

How to clean an iPhone 6 or earlier

If you have an older, non-water-resistant iPhone, take extra care around the additional port where headphones attach — and keep excess moisture away from them if at all possible, cleaning with a relatively dry cloth. Otherwise, follow the instructions above. On older models, you can use a small amount of rubbing alcohol around the tray where your SIM card is inserted. And that trusty, lint-free cloth, of course.

SEE ALSO: The best iPhone for every type of person and budget

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: I've used iPhones for nearly a decade and switched to the Samsung Galaxy S10. Now I understand Android loyalty in a way I never understood before.

This sustainable LA distillery has the world's largest portfolio of organic spirits, and yes, it translates to better flavor

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Greenbar Distillery 1 (1)

  • Greenbar Distillery is a carbon-negative alcohol brand based out of LA that plants one tree for every bottle sold.
  • A standard two-ounce cocktail made with Greenbar liquor helps remove enough carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to make the average American carbon-negative for the day.
  • The company only uses certified organic ingredients, has lightweight bottles and recycled labels made from 100% post-consumer waste, and has planted over 780,000 trees.
  • You can order Greenbar Distillery liquor from shops in your area through Drizly. And, if you're in LA, you can take a tour of the distillery for 50% off with this Groupon

When Litty Mathew and Melkon Khosrovian's distillery was accidentally delivered organic ingredients more than a decade ago, they didn't realize it would change everything about how their company operated.

The flavors tasted richer and more vivid. Recipes had to be rejiggered. 

"When plants aren't given artificial crutches to help them grow quickly, they have to be strong on their own. An orange, for example, has to keep the Southern Fire Ant away by creating more oil. This translates to more aromatic fruit. That was the light bulb moment: organic = better flavor," Mathew told Business Insider. 

Overnight, Mathew and Khosrovian decided to use only organic products to make their spirits. And, within a year, their fledgling organic liquor brand, Greenbar Distillery, had overtaken sales from the original.

Today, Greenbar boasts the largest portfolio of organic spirits in the world. Its liquor is also carbon-negative, and the company plants a tree for every bottle bought — which today amounts to more than 780,000 trees.

For Greenbar, organics gave the company the best taste. It was a simple decision. Learning from the growers and farmers how important organic practices were for keeping land, water, and air clean, they decided to make all the eco-friendly choices they could. Also a simple decision. Only after commissioning studies a year later would they realize those steps amounted to carbon-negative alcohol.

Since the average American produces 55 kilograms of carbon dioxide every day, and a standard two-ounce Greenbar cocktail removes 62 kilograms of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, one cocktail effectively makes the drinker carbon-negative for the day. 

To minimize waste, Greenbar bottles are lighter than the industry norm. Labels are made out of 100% post-consumer-waste recycled paper with water-soluble inks, and frosting and metallics that cause unnecessary environmental harm during production are nixed. Instead of PVC plastic, the bottles reusable and recyclable cork is secured with PET. 

Behind the scenes, non-profit forestry programs also strengthen the communities wherein the tree-planting occurs. "They address deforestation at the root cause — poverty." Mathew told Business Insider. "Rather than spraying seeds from above, the non-profit trains farmers to plant higher-value, fair-trade crops like coffee and cacao. These crops need shade trees, which is what companies like us pay to plant. Now the farmers have a reason to protect the forest for the same exact reason they were slashing and burning it before — to make more money and better feed their families. This helps people live better lives while also creating a better world."

And if ordering carbon-negative liquor online sends off oxymoron warning bells in your head, it's worth noting that companies like Drizly typically source the alcohol from the shelves of your local stores. And when asked about the impact of cross-country shipping on the liquor's overall carbon footprint, Mathew and Khosrovian said they factor the full life cycle of spirits (including its journey to customers anywhere in the US) in that math. 

We tested some of Greenbar's liquors to see if organic really does make for better taste. Our verdict is that, whether it's the organic ingredients or not, Greenbar liquor is pretty delicious — and particularly well suited to upgraded summer cocktails. 

Shop all Greenbar Distillery products at Drizly. Scroll for three top sellers we tried:

Tru Garden Vodka

Greenbar Distillery Tru Garden Vodka, $16.99 - $39.99

Greenbar Distillery's Tru Garden Vodka gets its name from the fresh ingredients used to make it. Tasting faintly of celery, dill, and coriander, it delivers fresh complexity to seasonal cocktails and Bloody Marys. 

What we thought: If you're a gin drinker who thinks they hate vodka, drink this vodka — it's nothing like sharp, stinging kind that probably turned you off it in the first place. The Tru Garden vodka is herbaceous and bright with an intense aroma of citrus, whole coriander, and celery leaves. Its herbal notes would pair perfectly with an acidic, lemony Bloody Mary, but it would lend itself equally to a more savory cocktail with my personal favorite duo, shrub and seltzer. — Sally Kaplan, Insider Picks editor



Slow Hand Six Woods Whiskey

Greenbar Distillery Slow Hand Six Woods Whiskey, available on Drizly, $39.99 - $77.99

Greenbar says this is the first whiskey matured with six kinds of wood (white oak, grape vine, hickory, mulberry, red oak, and maple) which translates to tasting notes of butterscotch, plum, currant, clove, and black tea in your glass. 

What we thought: Slow Hand is spice-forward with sweet undertones like butterscotch and brown sugar that fade into warm wood. Though warm, it's also not hot like a rye. It's smooth, approachable, and an easy drinking whiskey that can be served neat (as I enjoyed it) or in an Old Fashioned or Gold Rush. — Mara Leighton, Insider Picks reporter



Grand Poppy Amaro

Greenbar Distillery Grand Poppy Amaro, available on Drizly, $25.99 - $46.99

Grand Poppy is an intense, bittersweet liqueur that's meant to serve up all the complexities of southern California flora in one bottle: farm-fresh citrus, coastal herbs and berries, and the California poppy flower. Pair it with sparkling wine, soda, or silver tequila, vodka, or whiskey for a cocktail. 

What we thought: Greenbar Distillery's Grand Poppy Amaro is a pleasant compromise between a drier Amaro, like Fernet-Branca, and a vague sweetness that conjures an aromatized wine like Lillet or an herbal liqueur like Strega. I really like that it's organic and has a dry finish. Chances are good that you might find me sipping this in a rocks glass this summer. — Owen Burke, Insider Picks buying guides reporter

Shop all Greenbar Distillery liquor on Drizly here



31 fun and meaningful Father's Day gifts that new dads will love

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Insider Picks writes about products and services to help you navigate when shopping online. Insider, Inc. receives a commission from our affiliate partners when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

baby footprint print

A new dad's first Father's Day is one he won't forget. You don't really know what it takes to be a parent until you actually become one, so it's a great time to celebrate all he's accomplished so far as a new father. 

He's probably loving this new role, but he's also probably looking for some much needed rest and relaxation, which is why, in addition to the gifts that will support him as a father, we included some picks that simply treat and reward him. 

Make a new dad's first Father's Day thoughtful and memorable with these 31 gifts. 

Looking for more Father's Day gift ideas? Find them all here

SEE ALSO: All of Insider Picks' Father's Day gift ideas for 2019, in one place

Light and comfortable sneakers

Gift the Allbirds Tree Runners, $95

Gift Smallbirds Wool Runners, $55

Allbirds are the comfortable shoes that will make him forget he's on his feet all day. The eucalyptus fiber Tree Runners are lightweight and cool, which is ideal for the summer ahead. While you're at it, get the Smallbirds version since their kid will be up and running in no time. 



An Instant Pot

Gift the Instant Pot DUO60 (6-Qt), $89.99

He can whip up dinner for the whole family with little effort and even less cleanup afterwards. The Instant Pot is an investment that will give back over and over again as it makes meats, stews, soup, rice, casseroles, and even dessert. 



A new set of sheets for him and baby

Gift the Brooklinen Classic Core Sheet Set, from $110

Gift the Brooklinen Crib Sheet Set, from $52

Sleeping restfully for both him and the baby will come easy when swaddled up in Brooklinen's soft, comfortable sheets. Both types of sheets come in cute colors and prints. 



Super soft lounge pants

Gift the Tommy John Second Skin Lounge Pants, $64

He won't ever want to take these soft, stretchy, and light micromodal pants off once he tries them on. They're amazingly comfortable and will keep their shape and softness through many washes. 



A play kit of curated toys

Gift a Lovevery Play Kit Subscription, from $36/month

Created by early-childhood-development experts, Lovevery curates age-appropriate toy kits that are delivered every two months. The included guides show parents when and how each toy should be introduced, and how the toys help with specific developmental stages. 

 



A water bottle that glows to remind him to drink water

Gift the Hidrate Spark 2.0 Smart Water Bottle, $61.99

This smart water bottle integrates with Fitbit, Apple Watch, and other activity trackers and makes sure he's hydrated throughout the day. It's a cool and easy way to ensure he's getting enough water and staying healthy. 



A sports jersey for the baby

Gift an NBA Baby Jersey, $39.99

Get the baby into the fandom early. They'll look adorable as they cheer on Dad's favorite team. 



A security system to keep his home safe

Gift the Arlo Pro 2 Home Security System, $315.99

Not that home security wasn't important before, but it's even more crucial now with a little one in the house. This easy-to-use system features 1080p and night-vision cameras and works with Alexa to keep tabs on everything going on in and outside his house. He can highlight specific zones of the house; listen and talk through the cameras from his smartphone; and back up all the recordings to refer back to later. 



A diaper backpack

Gift the Quiksilver Diaper Backpack, $65

You can't even tell this is a diaper bag from the outside. The main compartment is spacious while the exterior zip and bottle pockets hold the essentials he needs to grab quickly. 



Tile trackers

Gift the Tile Mate and Slim Combo 4-Pack, 37.90

He'll be so busy getting used to new dad life that he might lose track of things like his keys and wallet. The slim tracker will barely make a dent in his bag or pocket, and he just needs to use the corresponding app to keep tabs on his belongings. 



A shaving set

Give a Dollar Shave Club Complete Shave Gift Set, $50

The box comes with a gentle prep scrub, smooth shave butter, hydrating post shave cream, a razor handle, and four stainless steel, four-blade cartridges. There's also a $15 gift card he can use as credit towards a membership. 



A long-distance touch lamp

Gift a set of two Filimin Long-Distance Touch Lamps, $170

A new dad's life is busy and tiring, so he might not always be available to talk and catch up. When you want to let him know you're thinking of him and vice versa without actually saying anything, just tap the lamp to make the other one light up. 

 



A pair of blue-light glasses

Gift a pair of MVMT Everscroll Glasses

All those late nights spent Googling new-parenting questions will eventually take a toll on his eyes. He can reduce eye fatigue and pain by wearing blue-light glasses as he scrolls through new-dad forums. 



An interactive photo journal

Gift the Artifact Uprising Baby Book | The Story of You, from $120

This thoughtful photo book helps him capture visual moments alongside written memories and thoughts, providing a fuller picture of the baby's first year and beyond. It features a premium fabric cover with foil stamped title. 



A funny book about fatherhood

Gift Man vs. Baby: The Chaos and Comedy of Real-Life Parenting, $9.48

New parenthood is a stressful and confusing time, but author Matt Coyne takes it all into stride and infuses his experience with self-deprecating humor. 



A custom print of his baby's footprints

Gift the Gold Baby Footprint 5"x 7" Print, from $15

This gold foil print is a beautiful and thoughtful piece of decor that will only become more precious as his baby grows up. 



Matching Papa Bear and Baby Bear shirts

Gift the Papa Bear and Baby Bear Matching Set, from $52

Help him step out in adorable style with a soft baby bodysuit and matching t-shirt. 



Personalized vitamin packs

Gift Care/of Personalized Vitamins, from $5/month

Give the gift of the most personalized vitamin experience he's tried yet. Care/of helps him figure out what vitamins he needs to take, packages them up conveniently into individual packs, and even writes his name on each pack. 



A cold brew maker

Gift the Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker, $18.99

A strong, refreshing cold brew is easy to prepare with this affordable maker, which makes one quart of coffee concentrate. Whether he needs an extra boost of energy or just loves drinking cold brew, he'll appreciate the delicious beverages and money saved using the coffee maker. 



Candy and games he probably loved as a kid

Gift the Man Crates Great Indoors Crate, $79.99

Bring him a delight of the outdoors — drinking hot chocolate by a campfire — without leaving the baby behind. You can choose from six national parks for the coaster design. 



Adorable leather baby moccasins

Gift Freshly Picked baby moccasins, from $45

These 100% genuine cowhide leather moccasins have a soft sole to help children who are starting to walk. They're easy to put on, will actually stay on his kid's feet, and come in many stylish prints and colors. 



A new game to introduce at game night with his friends

Gift Beeropoly, $35

From a rhyming competition to asking him to show his best dance moves, this fun and active game is for all the competitive dads out there. 

 



A trusted service to find a good babysitter

Gift a UrbanSitter gift card, $25-$200

At some point, Dad will desperately need a night to himself but might have trouble finding a sitter. Nationwide service UrbanSitter is home to over 150,000 trusted babysitters and gathers mutual connections and recommendations from their community of fellow parents. A $34.95 one-month access pass (or $99.95 annual membership) allows parents to browse, interview, and book a sitter that meets their needs.



A blanket that makes his baby look like a burrito

Gift the Tortilla Baby Blanket, $48

Once his baby's all bundled up in this soft tortilla blanket, he won't ever want to unwrap her. 



Skincare products made from all-natural ingredients

Gift an Oars + Alps Oarsman Kit, $122

Packed with Oars + Alps bestsellers like the Face + Eye Cream, Wake Up Eye Stick, and Blue Charcoal Exfoliating Bar Soap, the kit keeps his skin nourished and glowing. The brand's most prized ingredient is Alpine Caribou Moss, which reduces the effects of aging and outdoor stressors.

 



A cozy cashmere sweater

Gift the Naadam Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater, $75

For only $75, you can buy him a soft, 100% cashmere sweater that doesn't pill — seriously. We were more than impressed with the value of Naadam's sweater, and he will be, too. 



A custom pair of headphones

Gift a custom pair of Bose QuietComfort 35 Wireless Headphones II, $399.95

To escape from the noise and distractions of the outside world, a pair of noise-cancelling headphones are a must. The ear caps, ear cups, outer headband, inner headband, and spacers of this set are all customizable, totaling up to more than 5 million unique combinations. 



A convenient and reliable grocery delivery service

Gift a FreshDirect gift card, $20-$250

FreshDirect delivers fresh groceries, from pantry staples to gourmet treats, to their door, letting them bypass all the struggles of shopping in real life. We know from experience that its produce quality is excellent, and its delivery slots are frequent and affordable.



A large, low-maintenance succulent

Gift the Bouqs Co. Hayworth Succulent, $60

Will he really want yet another thing to take care of? Don't worry — succulents mainly need light, not water, so he won't have to pay too much attention to it. This one comes in a large, sturdy concrete planter. 

 



A personal egg pan

Gift the Field Company #4 Cast Iron Skillet, $75

The smallest version of this Internet-famous cast iron skillet is perfect for whipping up personal dishes like eggs or snacks and apps to tide him over before dinner. 



A moisture-wicking, performance dress shirt

Gift the Rhone Commuter Dress Shirt, $118

The last thing he wants to do while juggling a busy schedule is deal with sweat stains and wrinkly shirts. Rhone's new dress shirts are super stretchy and lightweight, plus they're wrinkle-resistant and moisture-wicking. After wearing, he can just throw it in the washing machine instead of making a trip to the dry cleaners. 



The best gardening kits for kids you can buy

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  • Gardening kits for children teach important lessons about how plants grow while encouraging kids to care for their gardens responsibly.
  • Our top pick, the Creativity for Kids Magic Bean Garden, includes a fast-growing plant and combines arts and crafts with gardening.

If you're looking for a fun gift or a way to keep kids entertained this summer, gardening kits for children combine education with entertainment. There are countless gardening kids designed to bring the fun of gardening indoors, making them suitable choices even if you live in an apartment or have no access to a yard. They get kids involved with gardening on a basic level, often combining gardening with arts and crafts. Plus, when plants require frequent watering, they teach kids about responsibility and caring for a living thing.

The gardening kits in this list are some of the best available. They include all of the supplies that you need (except water), and some incorporate fun arts and crafts activities so that your children can customize their gardens and put their art skills to work. All of these kits also include the required seeds, and fast-growing plants have been selected so that even younger children will quickly see the results of their gardening — some of these options are suitable for children as young as 5.

Depending on your children's ages, some (or a lot of) supervision may be needed both during set-up and when it comes to caring for the garden. All of these kits can receive the light they need when placed in a sunny window, and care is relatively low-maintenance. They're all designed with kids in mind, and even if the plants die on the first try, most of these kits include enough seeds so that you can replant and try again.

During this age of computer screens and technology, these gardening kits can be a welcome return to nature. They can be a great summer learning activity and may be ideal birthday gifts too.

Here are our top picks for the best gardening kits for kids in 2019:

Keep scrolling to read more about our top picks.

The best overall

Combining crafts and gardening, the Creativity for Kids Magic Bean Garden is suitable for kids ages 5 and up.

Whether your child's a fan of the Jack and the Beanstalk fairy tale or loves arts and crafts, the Creativity for Kids Magic Bean Garden combines crafting, gardening, and a little bit of enchantment. Designed for ages 5 and up, the fun starts with painting the flower pot. Five brightly colored paint and a paintbrush are included, so your child can express his or her artistic talents. Next, fill the planter with the included potting mix, and plant the beans. The kit includes three "magic" beans, and it's recommended that you plant one or two at a time.

The beans themselves are Sword beans, also known as Canavalia beans. Each seed is engraved with a message, and once the beans sprout you can see these surprise messages on the pods. You can expect to see growth within 3 to 10 days, and the pods grow between 10 and 18 inches long, resembling swords. Once the plants are established, you can transplant them to a larger pot, teaching your child about gardening in the process.

The Creativity for Kids Magic Bean Garden has a 4.5 out of 5-star Amazon rating, based on 42 reviews. One customer and her son were impressed with their bean plant's growth: "I was not expecting such a beautiful plant to grow from these beans! It took ours a pretty long time to sprout, but once they appeared they took off like crazy! Absolutely gorgeous healthy leaves- we will be repotting it soon to see how big it will get. A really fun and awesome experiment to do with my son!"

Pros: Kit incorporates painting with gardening, beans sprout to reveal special messages on their pods, can transplant bean plants to allow for further growth

Cons: Only three beans are included

Buy the Creativity for Kids Magic Bean Garden on Amazon for $15



The best for education

Through guided experiments, the Thames & Kosmos Kids First Botany Experimental Greenhouse Kit teaches children about nature, gardening, and how plants grow.

When it comes to hands-on learning, the Thames & Kosmos Kids First Botany Experimental Greenhouse Kit allows children to be active participants in the learning process. This kit gets kids to conduct experiments within greenhouse domes that come with thermometers and ventilation. As children grow beans, cress, and zinnia flowers, they'll learn about how plants grow and discover the different needs of each type of plant.

A 48-page, full-color manual guides children through 30 different experiments and provides detailed instruction on planting and caring for different types of plants. Children will learn many valuable skills, such as how to make leaf and bark rubbings and how to force budded branches to grow in winter. Rather than planting seeds and waiting for them to grow, the kit keeps kids involved with plenty of activities and learning opportunities. The kit is suitable for kids ages 5 through 10.

The Thames & Kosmos Kids First Botany Experimental Greenhouse Kit has a 3.9 out of 5-star Amazon rating, based on 37 reviews. One reviewer wrote, "My son loves this. It's so much more than botany. The booklet is thick and filled with experiments. The supplies are copious and unexpectedly abundant. The experiments require upkeep, and the system is set up for success with lots of nice visual reminder components. Breeds responsibility, and rewards it with success."

Another customer also had a positive experience with the kit: "My 7-year-old son and I had a great time with this! It came with everything we needed to get us started. He enjoyed getting to watch and track the growth of all the plants."

Pros: Manual includes 30 experiments, unique greenhouse dome design allows for individualized experiments, keeps kids active, comes with supplies to grow beans, cress, and zinnia flowers

Cons: Requires frequent watering and monitoring, requires some adult supervision

Buy the Thames & Kosmos Kids First Botany Experimental Greenhouse Kit on Amazon for $27.99



The best for ongoing entertainment

The Zombie Plant Grow Kit from TickleMe Plant offers ongoing entertainment with its plant that seems to play dead at your touch.

Looking for something a little different as a gift for a zombie-loving kid? The Zombie Plant Grow Kit is a gardening kit with a twist. Rather than grow flowers or vegetables, this kit contains "zombie seeds" that grow into a plant (Mimosa pudica) that "plays dead" at the slightest touch. Just a brush of the mature plant's leaves will cause it to fold up and almost recoil from your touch, appearing to die before your eyes. With time, the plant will gradually unfurl again, returning to "life" until someone touches it and it curls up again.

This kit arrives in a coffin-like box and includes everything you need to grow a small army of zombie plants. Six growing pellets take the mess out of gardening, and there are plenty of zombie plant seeds to get you started. You can grow the plants indoors year-round and transplant them to pots to allow them to reach larger sizes.

The Zombie Plant Grow Kit has a 3.8 out of 5-star Amazon rating, based on 163 reviews. One customer wrote, "Overall great product. Followed the instructions on the book and the majority of the seeds germinated. Some seeds even germinated during the soaking period. I have been growing these on next to my work desk and have a small set up with a grow light and a timer. The plants have been growing at a steady pace and provide entertainment to myself and my coworkers who walk by and touch a branch or two to watch it close."

Another customer wrote, "Our family has enjoyed growing the zombie plant kit. My young daughter loves watching the leaves close when she touches them. They came up quickly and have been transferred to a bigger pot."

Pros: Fun packaging, kit includes everything you need to grow the plants

Cons: Some zombie-themed décor for the garden itself would complete the package

Buy the Zombie Plant Grow Kit on Amazon for $18.95



The best fairy garden

The Creativity for Kids Enchanted Fairy Garden Craft Kit combines gardening with arts and crafts to keep kids active in the experience.

With the Creativity for Kids Enchanted Fairy Garden Craft Kit, children can create, paint, and decorate a fairy garden all their own. The kit blends together arts and crafts with indoor gardening, as children start out by painting the 11-inch-diameter potting dish, resin fairy house, and resin toadstools. Then, kids can plant the wheatgrass and bean mixture seeds using the included potting soil. Included gravel, glass stones, fabric flower bouquets, pixie dust, and gems give kids plenty of creative freedom in how they decorate their fairy garden. Once the scene is set, kids can decide on the perfect place for Hannah, the included fairy figurine.

This product goes beyond many other gardening kits in terms of the overall activity it offers kids. From painting the dish and accessories to setting up — and redesigning — the scene, kids are more involved in play with this kit than with more traditional gardening kits. The grass grows within one to two weeks, so the "complete" garden will be visible promptly. While the garden consists mostly of grass, adding in some flower seeds that have relatively shallow root structures would add a little more color and variety to the scene.

The Creativity for Kids Enchanted Fairy Garden Craft Kit has a 4.3 out of 5-star Amazon rating, based on nearly 700 reviews. This customer found that kids of all ages enjoyed this kit: "Bought for a 6-year-old, 10-year old, and 16-year old sisters for a craft project. I even made one with them. They enjoyed it and so did I. The decorations are adorable. All items were intact in the boxes. It took us about 3 hours to complete."

Another customer wrote: "This fairy planter really grew great! My 8-year-old daughter loves it. We bought DIY planters but the seeds never grew out … Comes with a lot of seeds. You don't need to use whole bag."

Pros: Kit incorporates gardening with arts and crafts, includes many items that allow kids to decorate their fairy garden

Cons: Seeds are mostly grass, no drainage in the potting dish

Buy the Creativity for Kids Enchanted Fairy Garden Craft Kit on Amazon for $20.86



The best terrarium

The Creativity for Kids Grow 'n Glow Terrarium includes enough materials for two life cycles and is easy to use.

The value of the Creativity for Kids Grow 'n Glow Terrarium kit lies in its ease of use. The kit has everything you need to create a terrarium, and the hard work has already been done for you. The plastic mason-style jar won't break if a child drops it on the floor, and the decorative lid already has fun shapes cut out of it for ventilation. The supplies are colorful and fun, and with plenty of stickers (both garden stickers and fun glow-in-the-dark options), your child can assemble the terrarium in one setting.

This kit includes enough materials for two life cycles, so if your child doesn't master the daily watering on the first try, they'll get another chance at it by rebuilding the terrarium. The mixture of chia and wheat grass seeds grow quickly, but they'll only thrive with daily watering with the included mister, a process through which your child can observe the visible results of caring for a living plant. Garden figurines, decorative sand, and river stones allow your child to express their creative side as they create their own mini ecosystem.

The Creativity for Kids Grow 'n Glow Terrarium kit has a 4.1 out of 5-star Amazon rating, based on more than 1,500 reviews. One customer's 8-year-old son loved the terrarium: "He put it all together the day he got it and has been so diligent about watering it every day. He'll do that before he does anything else when he wakes up in the morning!"

Pros: Includes all needed supplies, enough supplies are included for two grow cycles, seeds sprout quickly

Cons: Requires daily watering

Buy the Creativity for Kids Grow 'n Glow Terrarium on Amazon for $12.99



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