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Inside Trump's controversial luxury golf resort in Ireland, where Pence spent US tax dollars and sparked outrage

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trump golf ireland

  • US Vice President Mike Pence was widely criticized for staying at the Trump International Golf Links and Hotel in Doonbeg, Ireland, this week.
  • Critics including Sen. Ted Lieu of California questioned the ethics of the vice president staying at a resort owned by President Donald Trump.
  • Lieu tweeted that Pence's actions were tantamount to "funneling taxpayer money" to Trump.
  • Doonbeg is approximately "an hour's drive plus a 40-minute flight" away from Dublin, where Pence was due to meet with Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, according to CNN.
  • White House officials confirmed that the visit of Pence's entourage was paid for by US tax dollars, Reuters reported.
  • But the latest fracas involving Pence isn't the first time the tiny coastal town of Doonbeg has been embroiled in a Trump-related controversy. 
  • Varadkar was once criticized for lobbying on the US president's behalf in an effort to block a nearby wind farm.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.
Vice President Mike Pence found himself in the rough on Monday, when criticism erupted over the ethics of his visit to US President Donald Trump's Irish golf resort. 

As part of his trip to meet with Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Pence and his entourage lodged at Trump International Golf Links and Hotel in Doonbeg, Ireland. The hotel did not respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

The resort is on the opposite side of the country from Dublin, with CNN reporting that the location required Pence to make "an hour's drive plus a 40-minute flight" to get to his destination.

Read more: After Trump tweeted out an image from a secret intelligence briefing to mock Iran, a top Iranian official trolled the president with a 'good morning' selfie

A Pence representative told Reuters that the president suggested that his second-in-command stay at the resort.

"It wasn't like a 'you must,'" Pence's chief of staff, Marc Short, told reporters. "It wasn't like a 'you have to.'" 

Short also confirmed that the visit was taxpayer-funded, adding that the vice president paid for the stay of his mother and his sister, who accompanied him.

This isn't the first time Pence has shown a preference for Trump properties. The Daily Beast reported that Pence's political team had poured $224,000 into stays at hotels owned by the president since 2017. But this latest visit has prompted a fresh backlash from Trump critics including Sen. Ted Lieu of California, who tweeted that Pence was "funneling taxpayer money" to the president.

It's also not the first time the president's Irish golf resort has attracted widespread scrutiny.

Here's a look inside Ireland's Trump International Golf Links and Hotel, which has faced questions over its funding and a debacle involving a wind farm:

SEE ALSO: The richest man in the Middle East has been released from house arrest in Saudi Arabia — see the luxurious Ritz Carlton where he was held captive for months

DON'T MISS: A 5-star Trump hotel in Panama is at the center of a major ownership dispute that could be bad news for the president — take a look inside the luxurious property

SEE ALSO: Irish pub owners defend Trump sons after several reports allege that they skipped out on their tab

While the vice president is at the center of this latest controversy, his connection to the small community of Doonbeg in County Clare goes back further than 2019.

Source: The Irish Times



Pence's great-grandmother hailed from Doonbeg, according to the Irish Times.

Source: The Irish Times



The then-Indiana governor and his family visited the coastal town in 2013, about a year before Trump purchased the golf resort.

Source: The Irish Times



The following year, Trump shelled out $29.2 million for the property.

Source: "Proof of Conspiracy: How Trump's International Collusion Is Threatening American Democracy"



In the book "Proof of Conspiracy: How Trump's International Collusion Is Threatening American Democracy," the professor and attorney Seth Abramson wrote that the president might have overpaid for the property to the tune of $13.2 million.

Source: "Proof of Conspiracy: How Trump's International Collusion Is Threatening American Democracy"



Theories have swirled around Trump's foray into Ireland ever since.

Source: Irish Times



The Irish Times reported that Glenn Simpson, the former Wall Street Journal reporter who founded the opposition-research firm Fusion GPS, testified under oath that he investigated the rumor that Russian mob money seeded the Doonbeg golf resort.

Source: Irish Times



According to Simpson, financial statements don't explicitly "show Russian involvement."

Source: Irish Times



"What they do show is enormous amounts of capital flowing into these projects from unknown sources ... but it's hundreds of millions of dollars," Simpson said, according to the Irish Times.

Source: Irish Times



One thing that is clear is that Trump's Irish golf course is a money hole.

Source: Irish Times



Abramson also wrote that Trump plunked down $164 million to keep Doonbeg and his Turnberry golf resort in Scotland afloat from 2014 to 2018.

Source: "Proof of Conspiracy: How Trump's International Collusion Is Threatening American Democracy"



The Irish Times reported that the Trump Organization lost 2.2 million euros on the Irish resort in 2016.

Source: Irish Times



The resort's website describes it as a "5 star destination" that caters to "golf enthusiasts, families, and surfers."

Source: Trump Hotels



The lodge has 218 hotel suites and a spa. The Irish Times reported that the operation had a workforce of 300.

Source: The Trump Factor: Unlocking the Secrets Behind the Trump Empire, Irish Times



At Trump's Doonbeg property, guest rooms start at 238 euros a night, or about $260.

Source: Trump Hotels



The most expensive "signature suite" that Business Insider found on the hotel's website cost 922 euros a night.

Source: Trump Hotels



Guests have a handful of Trump-owned dining options within the hotel, including afternoon tea, room service, Trump's Bar and Restaurant, and the Oceanview Restaurant.

Source: The Trump Factor: Unlocking the Secrets Behind the Trump Empire, Trump Hotels



The resort's focal point is its 18-hole golf course along the Atlantic Ocean.

Source: Trump Hotels



The Australian golf pro and course designer Greg Norman was the creative force behind the original golf course at Doonbeg, which opened in 2002.

Source: "Commander in Cheat: How Golf Explains Trump,""The Trump Factor: Unlocking the Secrets Behind the Trump Empire"



Norman reportedly built the course "by-hand," meaning with minimal interference to the area's natural landscape.

Source: "Commander in Cheat: How Golf Explains Trump"



According to "Commander in Cheat," a book by the sportswriter Rick Reilly, Trump redid the course after purchasing the land.

Source: "Commander in Cheat: How Golf Explains Trump"



To protect from climate-change-induced erosion, the resort petitioned in 2017 to erect seawalls. Trump has consistently disputed the scientific consensus that humans influence climate change.

Source: Business Insider, New York Times



Suspicions around funding and Pence's recent stay aren't the only political scuffles the Doonbeg estate has been caught up in.

Source: BBC



In 2018, Trump described lobbying Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to block the construction of renewable-energy turbines.

Source: "Leo: A Very Modern Taoiseach"



Trump reportedly feared that the turbines would hurt his business at Doonbeg, according to Varadkar's recounting of the interaction.

Source: "Leo: A Very Modern Taoiseach"



The taoiseach said he reached out to Ireland's state tourism agency relaying Trump's concerns.

Source: "Leo: A Very Modern Taoiseach"



The wind farm wasn't built, but Varadkar said the request to build the structures along the coast "would have been refused anyway."

Source: "Leo: A Very Modern Taoiseach"




I tried the $245 BlanQuil Chill, a cooling weighted blanket — it's worth the price for hot sleepers like me

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Blanquill chill

  • I need the weight of blankets to fall asleep, but I often wake up sweaty in the middle of the night. The BlanQuil Chill Cooling Weighted Blanket has allowed me to strike a balance and sleep comfortably.
  • The BlanQuil Chill ($245) uses eco-friendly glass micro-beads for weight and cutting-edge cooling fabric that absorbs body heat.
  • At $229.95, the price may seem steep, but it solves such a unique problem that I found it to be worth it.

I love sleep. But sleep doesn't always come easily for me. I sleep hot, and I often wake up sweaty and uncomfortable in the middle of the night. Other people may just throw the blankets off to get some relief from the heat, but it's not so simple for me. I can't sleep at all without piles and piles of blankets. The weight and warmth helps me settle in, so I started looking into weighted blankets to see if I could mimic that feeling without all the bulk. My editor gave me the chance to try this cool-to-the-touch weighted blanket from BlanQuil, and now I can't sleep without it.

Weighted blankets have garnered a reputation as an invaluable sleep aid for those who struggle with insomnia. Many with sensory processing disorders, ADHD, and autism also swear by weighted blankets as a tool to feel grounded, safe, and comfortable as they fall asleep.

As someone who has anxiety, my mind will often race at night, and I'll end up tossing and turning for ages and having lots of restless nights. So even in the dead of summer, I've got sheets, blankets, and quilts galore, and I wrap myself up like a burrito. The combination of these two factors make getting a good night's sleep difficult in the warmer months, but the weighted BlanQuil Chill has been a godsend, allowing me to fall asleep quicker and stay cooler throughout the night.

Weighted blankets are often filled with plastic pellets, chains, or another heavy material — BlanQuil uses eco-friendly glass micro-beads. The calming cocoon effect they create is thanks to something called deep pressure stimulation. It essentially feels like a full-body hug, and causes the brain to release of serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that help us feel relaxed, calm, and happy. Some research suggests deep pressure touch can also activate the brain's limbic system, which helps us process emotions and fear. Basically, there's a ton of science that says feeling like you're being given a gentle hug is really good for you.

The BlanQuil Chill combines BlanQuil's outstanding reputation for weighted blankets with a cooling cover that wicks away sweat and moisture and absorbs body heat. How the cooling fabric works remains a bit of a mystery to me, but there's no doubt it feels surprisingly cool to the touch. My partner sleeps with one leg outside of the covers, and she appreciates how refreshing the surface of the BlanQuil is against her leg when she's feeling too warm, kind of like holding an ice cube to your neck when you've come back from a run. Plus, the cover is  completely removable and washable, so you don't have to worry about spills or sweat buildup.

BlanQuil offers a 15-pound and a 20-pound version — they suggest going for one that's between 8-15% of your body weight.

I've been sleeping with the 15-pound one for the past six months, and I've noticed a huge difference in my quality of sleep. I fall asleep faster, I toss and turn less, and most importantly, I'm less sweaty when I wake up in the morning. 

Blanquill Chill 3

In the winter months, the cooling fabric was actually a bit too strong, and I had to use it on top of my existing blankets otherwise it felt too cold against my skin. But in the summer, I've found it to be most effective just on top of my top sheet. (Yes, I'm one of the few millennials that still uses a top sheet.) I've found the BlanQuil actually stays cooler this way, since it's not in direct contact with my skin, sucking up all my body heat until it's no longer effective.

After a while, the chilling fabric will adjust to your body temperature, so it works best in combination with some kind of fan or air conditioning circulating the air in the room to keep it refreshed.

It reminds me of how you have to hold something glow in the dark up to a bright light to "charge" it. The coolness needs to be "charged," otherwise you could end up a bit sweaty once you fall asleep.

The one downside is that it tends to slip off the bed if you toss and turn in the middle of the night. The cooling fabric has a wonderfully silky texture, but that causes it to have no real grip on the sheets, and once it starts to fall off the bed, the weight of the blanket takes it down. If you're a hot sleeper who doesn't rely on the weight to stay asleep, this may actually be a blessing in disguise freeing you from the blanket once it starts to warm up from your body heat.

BlanQuil also sells their Micro-Plush covers separately for $99, allowing you to turn your BlanQuil Chill into a warm, cozy, and velvety weighted blanket in the winter months. And, this may even solve the slipping-off-the-bed dilemma. 

The bottom line

The blanket is pricey at $245, butmost weighted blankets are. The cooling capacity of this one makes it worth the price for hot sleepers who need some nighttime relief.

Shop the BlanQuil Chill Cooling Weighted Blanket for $244.95 at Amazon

SEE ALSO: I thought it was impossible to find high-quality linen bedding that would fit my deep mattress — until I tried this little-known company's sheets

Join the conversation about this story »

How to add interests on your LinkedIn profile page, and view or add the interests of your LinkedIn connections

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linkedin computer

  • You can add interests on LinkedIn to help colleagues and potential employers learn more about the things you like. 
  • You can also view the interests of your LinkedIn connections, or anyone on LinkedIn, and directly add those interests to your profile from their page. 
  • Interests on LinkedIn can often be companies, individuals, or groups you have worked with in the past or would potentially like to work with in the future.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

LinkedIn is the social network for professionals, allowing you to connect with colleagues and potential employers and even apply for jobs within the site itself. 

By creating a resume of sorts that serves as your profile page, you're able to highlight your achievements, talents, education, and work history to anyone who might want to see it. 

You can also add interests to your LinkedIn profile, and doing so might be worth your while. 

Interests on LinkedIn consist of "news sources, Influencers, companies, schools, and groups" you're following on the site. This is useful because it lets other users know what you're curious about and can even help you form new connections with people who follow the same things as you. 

If you want to know how to add interests to your LinkedIn profile, here's how to do it. 

How to add interests on LinkedIn

1. Go to https://www.linkedin.com and log in using your username and password.

2. Using the search bar at the top of your screen, locate a person, company, or topic you're interested in and click to be taken to their profile page. 

follow_1

3. On the person or company's profile page, click the Follow button. The company, person, or topic will now be listed in your Interests section. 

How to view and add the interests of your LinkedIn connections

It's also possible to see the interests of your connections, or any profile on LinkedIn. 

To do so, go to the profile page of the person whose interests you want to view. Scroll down to their Interests section to see the companies, topics, and people they follow. 

Where applicable, click "See all" if there are too many to display on the main profile page. 

follow_2

Then, a window will appear where you can add interests by directly clicking the Follow button. If you're already following one of their interests, a check mark will appear next to the group or company's name. 

Screen Shot 2019 09 03 at 2.44.26 PM

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best budget laptops you can buy

Join the conversation about this story »

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How to turn off notifications on your iPhone for individual apps, or adjust the types of notifications you receive

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iphone notifications

  • You can turn off notifications on your iPhone in a few different ways. 
  • In Settings, you can turn off all notifications for individual apps, or adjust the kinds of notifications you receive from different apps. 
  • You can also turn off all iPhone notifications for a certain period of time with Do Not Disturb mode. 
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

A few months ago, my family was planning a trip to France. I got a language learning app on my iPhone and dutifully brushed up on my French, reaching a level where I was competent enough to greet people, handle basic topics like directions and ordering food, and to apologize for my horrid accent.

After the trip, I had no need (or free time) to further my language studies, so I stopped using the app. But the app continued to send me notifications multiple times a day, mostly trying to guilt me into returning to the unused application. 

The solution? I turned all notifications from the app off, leaving it installed for later use but preventing it from bugging me.

With every app you have on your iPhone, you can turn notifications off or limit how they will appear, so you can customize your iPhone experience to be helpful and informative – and not annoying and invasive.

In addition, if you ever want a break from all notifications for a certain period of time, just pull up your iPhone's control center (or pull it down from the top right on an iPhone X or later) and tap the moon icon to set a "Do Not Disturb" period. 

But the best way to manage your iPhone notifications is spending the time to customize the information that each app delivers. 

Here's how to do it. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPhone Xs (From $999.99 at Best Buy)

How to turn off notifications on your iPhone

1. Launch the "Settings" app on your phone, then scroll to and tap "Notifications."

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2. Scroll down to the app with notifications you want to limit, then tap it.

IMG_5423.PNG

3. To curtail all notifications, toggle the button beside "Allow Notifications" to off.

IMG_5428.PNG

4. To merely limit the app's notifications, set where it can deliver a notification (Lock Screen, Notification Center, and Banners) and toggle Sounds and Badges on or off.

For more information on how to turn off all notifications for a certain period of time, read our article, "How to use Do Not Disturb on iPhone manually, or schedule it to activate at a specific time each day." 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

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

Join the conversation about this story »

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YouTube stars Logan Paul and KSI will fight head-to-head, again, in a boxing match without headgear on November 9 in LA

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ksi logan paul fight 2

Logan Paul and KSI, two of YouTube's biggest personalities, will face off in the boxing ring again in November for a much-hyped rematch.

The follow-up fight will take place November 9 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, a 21,000-capacity arena home to the Los Angeles Lakers. Details of the rematch were revealed Tuesday afternoon on social media.

The November 9 fight follows a previous match between the two that took place in August 2018 and ended in a draw. But the match was a success in drawing crowds: 18,000 fans watched the fight on-site in a United Kingdom arena, and nearly 800,000 people tuned in online to stream the event. That boxing match generated $11 million in revenue, according to estimates from Business Insider.

Read more:KSI and Logan Paul probably generated up to $11 million with their YouTube boxing match

Paul and KSI have been immensely hyping up the rematch ever since the previous one did not result in a winner. The rematch was initially scheduled for February, and it's not clear why it was pushed back all the way to November. Medium publication FFWD reports that there were 10 months of negotiations about rights and brand deals leading up to this rematch.

This time around, the match between Paul and KSI is being promoted by Matchroom Boxing and will stream exclusively on DAZN, a livestreaming app for sports. But it remains to be seen how DAZN fairs in trying to stem the surge of free streams that are bound to pop up online during the match. An estimated 1 million people watched the 2018 match via illegal streams on websites like Twitch.

Additionally, this time around, the Paul-KSI can be classified as a "professional" match rather than an amateur one, because both men are licensed by the California State Athletic Commission, FFWD reports. That also means that Paul and KSI won't be wearing headgear for this boxing match.

Tickets are not yet on sale, but are expected to be available soon on the Staples Center website.

SEE ALSO: How Logan Paul went from making videos in his backyard to becoming a 24-year-old millionaire and one of the most controversial stars on YouTube

Join the conversation about this story »

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Google has started rolling out Android 10 — here are the 10 best new features and updates to look out for (GOOG, GOOGL)

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  • The latest version of Android, Android 10, is rolling out to GooglePixel phone users starting Tuesday.
  • Android 10 brings several tweaks rather than major overhauls. With that said, some things can be considered overhauls that come with big impacts, like the new privacy settings.
  • Few Android phones from other phone makers are getting the Android 10 update as early as Tuesday, and it's not clear when phones from companies like Samsung, LG, and OnePlus will be getting the Android 10 update. 
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Google began rolling out the Android 10 version of its Android mobile operating system on Tuesday to Pixel devices, including the original Pixel, Pixel 2, and Pixel 3 phones. 

As with the past few versions of Android, there are some new features and updates that may not be immediately obvious. You could even miss them if you don't know what to look for. 

That would be a shame, since some of these new features are pretty helpful. To help you get the most out of Android 10, Business Insider has compiled a list of features to look out when you get the update.

Check it out:

SEE ALSO: Google's next major Android update is launching Tuesday — here's how to get it

10. Smart Reply gives you useful shortcuts to apps that might be relevant to notifications.

 



9. New swipe gestures!

To go back in Android 10, you'll need to swipe right from the left edge of the screen instead of pressing the back button, which has been a staple of the Android OS for years.

You can also swipe left or right on the bottom of the screen to flick through your recently opened apps. 

To go back home with the new gestures option, you just swipe up from the bottom of the screen. 



8. Live Caption will add handy text captions to your videos, as well as to podcasts and audio messages, without needing an internet connection.

 



7. A new app called Sound Amplifier can boost the sound you want to hear and filter out background noise. Quick — and odd — disclaimer: It works only with wired headphones.



6. Photos can be saved in the HEIF format, which means they use up less space and look just as good as the old JPEG format.



5. Privacy becomes easier on Android 10.

Privacy is getting its own spot in the Android 10 settings, where all the privacy settings like app permissions, account activity, and personal data will be found in one place. 

That's a major improvement to the privacy settings in Android 9, where privacy settings are dispersed through different settings and you have to find app privacy settings within each app. 

 



4. You get more control over which apps get permission to access your location data.

With Android 10 you can customize how the apps on your phone access your location data: all the time; only when you use the app; or never. And Android 10 will even remind you if you gave apps access to your location all the time, in case you decide you want to change that. 



3. Android 10 phones will receive security updates like an app update in the Google Play store, making it faster and easier for people to get the latest security updates.



2. With a new "Focus Mode," you can temporarily pause apps that might distract you when you're trying to get something else done.

 



1. Android 10 has the option for a system-wide dark mode, which is more comfortable for your eyes and easier on your battery.

 



51 creative and affordable gifts for her that are all under $50

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phone stand

  • If you're looking for an affordable gift for her, look no further than this list of over 50 options under $50.
  • Whether for the holidays, a birthday, or just because, she'll love any of these thoughtful picks.

Gift-giving isn't always easy, though it seems like it would be. Just buy them something that aligns with their interests, right? Eh, it's not always so simple. If she's interested in tech, there are a million options to choose from. Same goes for beauty products, kitchen gadgets, books, subscriptions, and so on.

So, then, whom to trust for recommendations? 

Considering that our jobs as product reviewers include discovering, testing out, and knowing where to shop for everything from new tech gadgets to skin-care products to useful kitchen accessories, I'd say we're pretty good resources for all things gift-related.

Whether you're looking for the perfect gift for your sister, mom, partner, or otherwise, we've put together a list of over 50 great gifts under $50 that we think she'll love, no matter the occasion. And in case you're shopping for a last-minute gift, most of these items are available with expedited shipping, and some should arrive within a few days' time.

A clever attachment that holds her AirPods

Elago AirPods Wrist Fit Adapter, available on Amazon, $8.49

The frustrating thing about using AirPods is figuring out where to store them. This small attachment goes around any watch's wristband and features two grippy holes that hold each Airpod.



A perfume subscription

Scentbird subscription, three months for $44

If she loves to switch up her scents, Scentbird is an affordable service that lets her choose a month's supply of perfume from thousands of well-known and new fragrances. With a three-month subscription, she can switch it up each month or stick to the ones she knows and loves.



A Kindle case that looks like her favorite book

KleverCase Kindle Paperwhite Case, available on Amazon, $18

You'll find many classic book covers cleverly printed onto Kindle cases, along with one that looks like an unmarked leather-bound book. All she has to do is pop it on her e-reader.



A subscription to Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime gift subscription, three months, $39

Amazon Prime opens up a whole new world of access, be it to fast two-day shipping or any of the other 27-plus perks you'll get with a membership. If you know she doesn't have one yet, this is a smart gift — but in the case she does, she'll get to use the $39 on anything she wants or needs from the site.



A massager to melt away tension

Zyllion Shiatsu Massager, available on Amazon, $44.95

This shiatsu massager is, to date, one of the best things I've ever bought. It kneads away tension and stress in the back and shoulders, and can even be used on sore leg muscles after a workout. She'll be thanking you for years to come.



An all-purpose tote with a detachable wristlet

Street Level Reversible Faux Leather Tote and Wristlet, available at Nordstrom, $49

Your first thought may be that a plain tote is sort of a boring gift — but hear us out! This one is reversible and features a detachable wristlet, which basically means you're getting three different bags for under $50. It's a utilitarian gift with a fashion-friendly twist.



A highly coveted candle

Diptyque Baies Candle, available at Nordstrom, from $36

Diptyque candles are about as chic and beloved as they come among candle lovers. The Baies scent is the company's signature, with warming and sophisticated notes of rose and blackcurrant. This candle is best gifted to partners or very good friends. 



A relaxing Himalayan salt lamp

Himalayan Glow Large Salt Lamp, available on Amazon, $19.97

There's nothing quite as calming as the warm glow of a pink salt lamp. This sits on my list of all-time best gifts I've ever received — turning it on each night creates a relaxing vibe in my living room and helps me let go of the day's stress.



An inexpensive accessory for her phone

PopSockets, available on Amazon, from $9.98 for plain and $14.99 for diamond (pictured)

PopSocket Grips are an inexpensive but extremely useful gift she'll be happy to have. She can pop them on the back of her phone, Kindle, iPad, or any other device to create a comfortable grip that allows her to hold her device one-handed.



A monthly book subscription

Book of the Month, three months, starting at $44.99

Each month, this service curates five book choices — some of them early release — from which she'll choose her favorite. The service will send the book directly to her, and she can also skip a month if she's behind on her reading.



A kit to make her favorite drink at home

Bubble Tea Kit, available at Uncommon Goods, $35

If she's a bubble tea fiend, she'll be happy to know that it's actually not that hard to make at home. This kit provides everything she'll need, including a wide straw, boba pearls, and loose-leaf teas.



An Alexa-enabled smart plug

Alexa-Enabled Smart Plug, available on Amazon, $24.99

Among Amazon's much-anticipated new releases was this voice-controlled smart plug, which allows her to control lights, chargers, and whatever else she wants through Alexa simply by plugging her devices into these outlets. She can also just use the Alexa app to turn the outlets on and off if she doesn't have an Echo or want to use her voice.



Socks that'll definitely make her giggle

Bob Ross Happy Little Tree Socks, available on Amazon, $12

These happy little tree socks will definitely brighten her day, especially if she's old enough to remember Bob Ross. 


A classic cast-iron skillet

Lodge 10.25-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, available on Amazon, $13.25

If she loves to cook and doesn't already have one, a cast iron skillet is a must-have in the kitchen. In the case that she does already have one, add to her collection with a reversible cast iron griddle and grill pan instead.



A letter board she can leave notes or cute phrases on

Felt Like Sharing Felt Letter Board, available on Amazon, $26.99

Sporting events, holidays, parties — there are a ton of occasions during which these come in handy, but she'll love being able to play around with it day to day at home with her favorite lyrics, phrases, or even messages to roommates. Choose from tons of felt colors (I'm partial to the light blue; it's the one I use at home!). 



A pretty place to keep her phone

Bedside Smartphone Vase, available at Uncommon Goods, $32

This bedside vase is a fun way to spruce up her night stand, whether with fresh or faux flowers. It also works beautifully in the kitchen if she likes to follow recipes using her phone.



A comfy tee that goes with everything

Long-Sleeve Box-Cut Tee, available at Everlane, $28

Skip the boring pajamas — get her something she'll want to wear every day. This cozy long-sleeve T-shirt from Everlane is as great for running errands as it is for wearing to work, depending on how she styles it. It also comes in a few other color options. 



A spiritual and spatial cleansing kit for the home

The Ritual Lavender Amethyst Incense Bundle, available at Urban Outfitters, $18

Burning sage can create a calming environment at home. This kit is an especially sweet gift for someone who's just moved into a new apartment or house, or just that one friend who's really into energy and spirituality. It includes a sage smudge stick with dried lavender, an amethyst crystal.



Tassel earrings to liven up any outfit

BaubleBar Granita Beaded Tassel Earrings, available at Nordstrom, $38

This popular pair of tassel earrings are beloved for their many color options and ability to elevate even the most basic jeans and T-shirt look.



A wine saver for open bottles

Vacu Vin Wine Saver, available on Amazon, $14.95

Sometimes you just can't finish the bottle of wine. That's when the Vacu Vin comes in. It's a simple, small gadget that removes the oxygen from your open bottle and gives it an airtight seal to preserve the freshness and prevent oxidation.



A custom phone case with photos of you together

Custom Phone Case, available at Casetify, from $29

Upload all your favorite photos together (or choose any other sort of theme) to create the ultimate personalized gift. You can choose pretty much any model of phone, and organize the photos in a ton of different layouts.



A cold brew maker

Takeya Patented Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker, available on Amazon, $16.99

Caffeine lovers who can't get enough of their favorite drink tend to spend a lot of money at coffee shops to get their fix. Make it easier for her to drink cold brew at home with this simple-to-use brewing pitcher. Read a full review here from one of our reporters who swears by this one.



A popular cookbook she's probably seen on Instagram

Dining In: Highly Cookable Recipes, available on Amazon, $22.39

Whether she's new to the kitchen or it's her favorite room in the house, Alison Roman's fan-favorite cookbook will guide her through tons of easy-to-make recipes with thoughtful and fascinating new twists.



A portable external battery

Anker PowerCore 10,000mAh External Battery, available on Amazon, $29.99

A good external battery is one of those practical gifts she probably needs but won't buy herself. Treat her to a good one that holds enough juice to charge her iPhone three times, or her Galaxy twice over.



A compact set of gardening accessories

Gardener's Tool Seat, available at Uncommon Goods, $36

Whether she has a plot at a community garden in the city or her very own vegetable garden in her backyard, this compact set of tools and a comfy stool are easy for her to carry around and store (plus they detach).



A puzzle of her heroines

Nevertheless She Persisted Puzzle, available at Uncommon Goods, $18

This puzzle features illustrations of both prominent and lesser-known women who have shaped and changed the course of history.



A candle that reminds her of home

Homesick Candles, available at Uncommon Goods, $30

If she lives far away from her home state, this Homesick candle is the perfect way to keep her feeling connected. Each state's candle is scented based on the local signatures and common scents of the region. Read a full review from one of our editors who loves these candles.



A flexible herb garden for the home

Mason Jar Indoor Herb Garden, available at Uncommon Goods, $20

These mason jar planters can be set up in so many ways — from the window sill to the kitchen counter. They're great for anyone who loves cooking with fresh herbs, especially if they live in cold climates where their outdoor herb gardens don't grow for half the year.



A way for her to share and pass down memories and traditions

My Life Story So Far, available at Uncommon Goods, $30

This book is sort of like a guided journal for her to record her memories, accomplishments, and experiences. No matter her age, it's something she'll undoubtedly enjoy keeping track of and sharing with others.



A natural travel skincare kit

Herbivore Hydrate and Glow Natural Skincare Mini Collection, available at Sephora, $39

If she's into natural beauty, chances are she already loves Herbivore's products. This mini skincare collection has all the essentials she'll need at home or on the road.



A tablet for easy entertainment

Fire 7 Tablet with Alexa, available on Amazon, $34.99

Great for traveling or lounging at home, the Amazon Fire 7 Tablet is an affordable way to stay connected to all her favorite apps, games, and streaming services on a larger screen than what her phone has to offer.



A plush, cozy throw

Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw, available at Nordstrom, $39.95

There's nothing quite like wrapping yourself up in a warm, snuggly blanket on a cold night in. This plush throw comes in a ton of colors to match any decor.



A fashion-friendly belt bag

Steve Madden Quilted Belt Bag, available at Nordstrom, $45

Belt bags (aka fanny packs) are making a comeback, and we're not mad about it. They're convenient, practical, and a simple way to add a stylish pop to any outfit.



An excellent cookbook for entertainers

Platters and Boards: Beautiful, Casual Spreads for Every Occasion, available on Amazon, $18.17

If having people over is more of a pleasure than a chore for her, she'll adore this cookbook full of clever recipe ideas for casual entertaining.



A map to keep track of her travels

Scratch Map, available at Uncommon Goods, $26-$40

Help her track her adventures with a scratch-off world map — or supplement a bigger surprise by scratching off the location you plan to take her to if you have a trip on the rise.



A smart way for her to stay organized while traveling

Travel Cord Roll, available at Uncommon Goods, $20

Frequent travelers need a way to keep all their cords and cables organized. This leather roll-up organizer has eight slots for cords and headphones plus a pouch where your charger base can fit.



A wireless and waterproof speaker

VicTsing Wireless Waterproof Speaker, available on Amazon, $17.99

A favorite of Amazon shoppers, this water-resistant, portable Bluetooth speaker works for everything from her daily shower concert to a trip to the beach. If you need any extra convincing, it's rated nearly four-and-a-half stars out of five from almost 7,000 shoppers.



A wintry candle in a reusable blown glass vessel

Lafco Feu de Bois candle, available on Amazon, $31.33

Lafco candles are some of the most intentionally designed and developed that you'll ever come across — from the hand-blown glass that makes up the reusable container, to the soy wax base that took the founder and his team years to perfect. Every scent Lafco makes is phenomenal, but the Feu de Bois (which smells warm and wintry like a burning fire) is a seasonal favorite. I highly recommend this one for in-laws and parents you'd like to impress.



A simple knitting kit for beginners

Braille Beanie Knitting Kit, available at We Are Knitters, $49

Whether she's new to knitting or a long-time pro, this crafty beanie kit has everything she needs — from the yarn, to the needles, and of course, the instructions.



A clever way to collect accomplishments and hopes

Birthstone Wishing Balls, available at Uncommon Goods, $32

These wishing balls come with a strip of paper for every week in the year on which she can write everything from her hopes and dreams to the things she's proud of accomplishing over the past seven days. You don't have to go for her birthstone — you could easily just choose her favorite color.



A comfy neck pillow for trains and planes

Trtl Neck Pillow, available on Amazon, $29.99

If she travels a lot (or has bad travel anxiety), the gift of comfort is one she'll undoubtedly appreciate. This is the one our travel writer swears by — you can read his review here.



A guide full of inspiration for her future adventures

The Bucket List, available at Anthropologie ($35) and Amazon ($23.64)

This worldwide bucket list won't cure her wanderlust, but it'll definitely provide her inspiration and fodder for planning her travels.



A set of tinted lip balms

Fresh Sugar Tinted Lip Treatment, available at Nordstrom, $24

If her beauty preferences tend to be more on the natural side, it's likely she loves a good tinted lip balm. Fresh makes some of the best — the color options are universally flattering and the easy, and the formula is smooth, hydrating, and buttery.



A dainty pair of hoops that are anything but average

Shooting Star Open Hoop Earrings, available at Maison Miru, $39

It seems like everyone on our team has a pair of these open hoops. Their horseshoe shape is just different enough to set them apart, while a tiny, twinkly cubic zirconia catches the light just enough to add a bit of sparkle.



A customizable box of candy for adults

Four-Piece Candy Bento Box, available at Sugarfina, $34

Satisfy her sweet tooth with a custom box of candy. Sugarfina's candies are distinctly "adult" — but she'll still feel like a kid when she digs into a box of rosé gummies.



An armband that holds her phone on runs or at the gym

Tribe Water-Resistant Arm Band, available on Amazon, $9.98

If she loves to run or spends a lot of time at the gym, this top-rated arm band will definitely be a lifesaver for her. Just make sure you know what model phone she carries as you may have to check different brands for different phone sizes. 



A makeup and skincare subscription

Birchbox three month gift subscription, $45

Birchbox is a skincare and makeup subscription that sends tons of beauty samples for her to test out and play around with. If she loves any of them, she can easily buy the full-sized version through the service. You can opt to give a longer subscription if you'd like. 



A picture frame for Instax Mini photos

Polaroid Cube Picture Frame, available at Urban Outfitters, $12

This cube picture frame is meant to hold photos from a Polaroid camera, but even if neither of you have one, it would still be a sweet gift to print out some photos of you together in the proper dimensions. 



The newest Amazon Echo Dot

Echo Dot, available on Amazon, $29.99

Give her home a smart tech upgrade with a new Echo Dot. It's outfitted with Alexa, who can answer questions about the weather or traffic, play music, and even tell you the news.



A convenient yoga mat carrier

Manduka Go Play Yoga Mat Bag, available on Amazon, from $32

If she's a fitness enthusiast who frequents local yoga classes, a carrying strap will make her life much easier (especially if she walks or takes the subway to her class). Pair this gift with a grippy, cushioned yoga mat starting at $40.



An adjustable rolling pin

Joseph Joseph Adjustable Rolling Pin, available on Amazon, $22.42

Anyone who loves to bake will appreciate this adjustable rolling pin that allows for more precision in the thickness of dough. All she'll have to do is remove or add the different sized rings and let them guide her.



33 gifts anyone who just moved into a new apartment will appreciate not having to buy themselves

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sodastream

  • If you're gifting someone who just moved into their first apartment, we recommend giving them something they wouldn't otherwise want to spend their own money on.
  • That means going for the little luxuries like a really nice room spray, or something they could really use like a robot vacuum
  • No matter what you choose, they'll appreciate any of the 33 new-apartment gifts below.

The best part of moving in to your first apartment or home is getting to create a space that's all yours. Finding the perfect decor and picking out furniture is the exciting part, but after that comes all the expenses no recent grad or young professional wants to bare. A laundry hamper, pots and pans, bedding — these are just some of the distinctly un-fun, adult purchases they'll reluctantly need to make.

Though you might be tempted to buy them some new decor for the walls, we recommend getting them some combination of the necessities they wish they didn't have to spend their own money on, and the little luxuries that can make life infinitely better. Read on to see our picks for what they'll really want this holiday season.

A gift card to buy the best set of sheets they’ve ever slept on

Brooklinen Gift Card, from $50

Our senior editor calls Brooklinen's sheets one of the best purchases she's ever made, and many of us at Insider Picks feel the same way. They'll be able to choose from quite a few weaves/materials as well as a huge selection of fun prints and colors. A basic full set costs around $130, for reference.



A personalized trinket tray for all their odds and ends

Wood and Marble Valet Tray, available at Mark & Graham, $59

Catch-all trays are the kind of gift that may seem underwhelming until they realize how useful they are. That was certainly the case when I was gifted one after college. Now I have a few of them around my apartment — one for keys and sunglasses by the door, one for my rings and jewelry by the bed, and another in the living room for lip balm, candle matches, and other small items. This one is customizable with their initials as an extra sweet touch.



A robot vacuum that makes quick work of chores

Eufy RoboVac 11S, available on Amazon, $219.99

Vacuuming is one of the great time-sucks in life — literally. Give them back their Sunday afternoons with the gift of a robot vacuum that'll take the work out of cleaning the house. On a personal note, I can't recommend this one enough. You can read a more thorough review of it here.



Stemless wine glasses that won’t spill or break as easily

Riedel O Stemless Wine Glasses, available on Amazon, 4 for $43.93

When my partner and I moved in together years ago, her mom bought us a nice set of tall, thin-stemmed wine glasses — likely because I had once served her Cabernet in a mason jar. Though I like using those to entertain occasionally, I prefer these stemless glasses that are much more casual and much less breakable (...kind of like a mason jar). 



A single-serve blender for smoothies and small batches

Nutribullet Blender, available on Amazon, $89

They're likely not going to need a full-sized blender for any reason other than making large batches of frozen margaritas. Gift them a personal-sized blender for making healthy smoothies at home — and if they want to make a few frosty cocktails, they'll just have to put in a little extra work. 



A Dutch oven they’ll have for the rest of their life

Le Creuset 5.5-Quart Dutch Oven, available on Amazon, from $349.95

A Le Creuset Dutch oven is one of those coveted kitchen items that most people don't get until their weddings, if ever. It's a special gift I only recommend giving to someone who really loves to cook. If you want to get them something a little less expensive but equally as useful, go for an eight- or nine-inch cast-iron skillet



A coffee maker for one

Keurig K-Mini Plus, available at Amazon, $95.89

A Keurig will have them out the door in a flash with a coffee in-hand — a priceless gift, if you ask me. Pair it with some cheap reusable pods if they're the eco-conscious type. 



Wall hooks that work in an room

Loop Wall Hooks (set of 3), available at West Elm, $24

If they're living the big city life in a small city apartment, they'll appreciate any extra storage they can get. These wall hooks can be hung up by the door to hold coats, keys, and bags, or they could go in the bedroom to store additional items that won't fit in the closet.



A neutral bath mat to match any type of decor

Winky Eye Bath Mat, available at Urban Outfitters, $24

Bath mats are one of those necessities that no one likes to spend their own money on. Gift them a basic neutral option that's got just enough cheekiness without clashing with their decor. If you know what their space looks like and want to get them something more adventurous, check outmore bath mat designs here.



A cleverly designed pillow to keep them cool at night

The Hybrid Pillow, available at Leesa, $92

Leesa's Hybrid Pillow is adjustable and reversible. One side features a cooling layer while the other has a quilted design that keeps the pillow fluffy and the fill even. Between the two sides is a thin slip pillow that they can add or take out for more or less support. You can read our full review here



A friendly welcome mat

Calloway Mills Welcome Mat, available on Amazon, $19.40

Likewise, a welcome mat is another home basic they're going to need but aren't going to want to purchase. This simple one is fun enough without bordering on tacky. 



Candles that really make it feel like home

Otherland Candles, $36 each or 3 for $89

Otherland's candles have the most beautiful packaging and intriguing scents (think: sandalwood and amber, or champagne and saffron). This is one gift you'll love giving as much as they'll love getting, and it'll add a sweet touch to their space. 



A jumbo pack of removable hooks that won’t damage the wall

Command Hooks 9-Pack, available on Amazon, $8.99

You can never have enough Command Hooks — especially if you're a renter who can't nail anything into the wall. This multi-pack makes a great stocking stuffer.



A place to put their booze

Deco Handle Tray, available at West Elm, $39.99-$59.99

Whether they have a proper bar cart or not, one simple way to add sophistication to a space is to store liquor and/or barware on a pretty tray. This neutral option is great for anyone who entertains a lot — they can use it as a serving platter or to hold their at-home mini bar.



A utensil holder for easy access to cooking tools

Textured Utensil Holder, available at West Elm, $29

Unless they absolutely love to cook, a utensil crock probably won't be the first thing on their mind when they move into a new space, so this is a smart and useful kitchen gift they'll appreciate.



An exceptionally cool cocktail shaker for the person who loves to travel

Airplane Cocktail Shaker, available at Williams Sonoma, $79.95

Sure, you could find cheaper or simple bar tool kits or cocktail shakers out there, but this one is just too cool to pass up. If you know someone who loves travel, or just loves to play around with fun gadgets, you won't regret giving them this cocktail shaker. The propellers aren't quite functional, but they do spin when you shake the canister! 

If this one isn't quite their style, check out some of the other ones we love here at a variety of price points



A cozy throw to snuggle up with

Knotted Throw, available at Crane & Canopy, $89

This is the blanket we fight over getting to use in my house — it's cozy, warm, breathable, and supremely soft. You'll find it in a few different colors at Crane & Canopy.



A curated set of pots and pans that won’t fall apart

Potluck Cookware Set, $160

Help them get their kitchen fully stocked with the right tools. Potluck makes cookware comparable to brands like All-Clad and Calphalon, but at direct-to-consumer prices that won't break the bank. Shop from a selection of well-curated bundles that fit all of their cooking needs. You can read a more in-depth review here



A really nice speaker

Google Home Max, available at Walmart, $269

The experience of listening to music on the Google Home Max is absolutely unparalleled, which makes the high price tag easier to justify (assuming you can bare to part with it). If you've got a substantial budget, this is the way to go for anyone who loves listening to music at home.



An over-the-door hook that can function in the bathroom or closet for extra storage

Yamazaki Minimal Over-the-Door Hook, available at Urban Outfitters, $18

An over-the-door hook is the ultimate closet or bathroom storage hack. They can use this one to hang everything from towels and robes to purses and jewelry.



A new down duvet that works for every season

The Down Duvet, available at Casper, from $290

Casper makes two equally excellent comforters, but this one is the more basic option. Its stitched compartments keep the ethically sourced down from spreading through the blanket, and the organic cotton shell is gentle and cooling. 



A set of hand towels for the bathroom

The Classic Hand Towels, available at Crane & Canopy, $16

Hand towels are a necessity made all the more fun when embroidered or monogrammed. Crane & Canopy offers a variety of colors and styles for a personalized touch.



A beautiful set of coasters they’ll actually want to use

Onyx Marble Coaster Set of 4, available at West Elm, $39

Hopefully it's a lesson they won't ever have to learn the hard way: always use a coaster. If you get them this beautiful set, they'll actually want to. 



A laundry basket that blends with any decor

Round Weave Laundry Baskets, available at West Elm, $47.20-$63.20

A laundry basket is another much-appreciated gift they'll be thankful for not having to buy themselves. The lining of this one is removable, and if they already have a laundry basket, they can use it to store extra sets of sheets and towels. 



A really good chef’s knife

Wüsthof Gourmet Hollow-Edge Santoku Knife, available at Williams Sonoma, from $64.95-84.95

It's not the only knife they'll ever need, but it's the best place to start. Get them one really good chef's knife to start their collection, and if you really want them take care of it, get them a sharpener as well. This one is good for beginners



A streaming stick that turns their plain TV into a smart TV

Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, available on Amazon, $29.99

If they're looking to cut the cost of cable out of their lives, a streaming stick is the way to go. It turns a regular TV into a smart TV by making all their favorite media apps like Netflix and Hulu available through a voice-controlled remote.



A beautiful set of dinnerware

Year & Day Dinnerware, from $26

Most people's first apartments (and the next few after that, if we're being honest) feature cabinets full of mismatched plates, glasses, and mugs they've collected over their time in college. Get them a new set of dishes, glasses, or flatware from Year & Day, one of our favorite new startups out there. If you're not ready to commit, you can read a full review of their dinnerware here



A salt lamp to give their space a warm glow

Himalayan Glow Salt Lamp, available on Amazon, $19.97

I swear by my salt lamp for creating a relaxing vibe at home. This one was gifted to me two years ago and I still use it every day. 



A signature scent for their new home

Diptyque Figuier Room Spray, available at Nordstrom, $68

Room spray is a fun twist on the classic gift of scented candles — and you can't go wrong with anything from Diptyque. During the winter, there's nothing more gorgeous than the iconic warm and woodsy Figuier (fig tree) scent, which you'll find concentrated in this beautiful mist.



A shower caddy that will follow them through multiple apartments to come

Simple Human Tension Shower Caddy, available on Amazon, $139.99

This shower caddy is one of the most useful things in my apartment. It uses an adjustable tension rod to hold itself into place and it can fit everything from a weirdly shaped bathtub ledge to a full floor-to-ceiling walk-in shower. It's a little pricey, but Simplehuman is known for making quality home products that rarely if ever need to be replaced. I've had mine for over three years and it hasn't rusted at all (you can read my full review of it here).



A smart device that can answer almost any question and play music

Echo Dot 3rd Generation, available at Amazon, $29.99

You can't go wrong when it comes to gifting the Echo Dot. It's a small speaker with major power, and Alexa can answer all their questions bout the weather, traffic, and more. They'll also be able to play music, games, and control other smart devices around the home. 



A cost-effective investment in their seltzer habit

SodaStream Fizzi Sparkling Water Maker, available on Amazon, $149.95 (with refills), or SodaStream, $89.99 (without)

If La Croix sparkling water is their main source of hydration, they'll love having a SodaStream around to make seltzer on demand. They can flavor it with drops meant to taste just like the real thing or create their own infusions — either way, they'll save a lot of money over time. 

Note: The more expensive of the two options comes with two soda bottles and two CO2 cylinders, while the less expensive one only comes with one bottle and one CO2 filter. 



A storage ottoman to save them space

Cole Classics Square Storage Ottoman, available at Target, $67.99

Every extra ounce of storage space matters in a small apartment, which is why this storage ottoman makes a perfect (and decor-neutral) gift. The lid lifts to reveal enough space for throw blankets and a pair of slippers. 




The best camping stoves you can buy

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  • A reliable camp stove is a great way to enjoy a warm meal and a hot cup of coffee when you're out in the field. It can also be must-have for purifying water and safely cooking food.
  • The MSR PocketRocket Deluxe is our top pick because it's compact, easy to use, and has a built-in igniter.

There really is nothing like a hot cup of coffee on a cold mountain morning, except maybe a hot meal on a cold mountain evening. Or some fresh fish cooked up minutes after it was pulled from the stream. Or a mug of hot cocoa sipped by the campfire as snowflakes dance beneath the winter stars. (You get the picture.)

With a good camp stove, you can enjoy a bit of creature comfort even when you're a multi-day hike away from the comforts of home. In our woodland wanderings, we've used three or four stoves of our own and cooked and/or boiled water using easily a dozen stoves owned by fellow mountaineers. We've used camp stoves to cook up multiple course meals during leisurely afternoons at well-established campsites and we've used them to melt snow and ice just so we had enough water to drink in order to rehydrate after an exhausting climb. Mostly, though, like all campers, we've used them to boil water.

In fact, it's worth noting that, more than any other use, a camp stove will be used to boil water, not for actual cooking. This is so both for purifying water and because so many ready-made camp meals simply require the addition of heated H2O. So along with that camp stove, make sure you also get a decent pot for boiling.

Any decent stove will produce plenty of heat and will resist the elements, but beyond that, there are all sorts of differences between various brands and models that make a given unit ideal for one user but a poor choice for others. In discussing the six camp stoves on this list, we'll cover not only each option's inherent qualities but will also talk through why each model is well suited to specific activities, as well as why a given stove may be a poor choice for other scenarios.

Each of these camp stoves is unique in several ways, but a few factors must be universally considered with backpacking stoves. These are weight, fuel source, and boil time, which is tantamount to considering BTU output. Beyond that, go ahead and let personal preference help inform your choice of the best camp stove. After all, you're the chef who'll be using it out there in the field.

Note: These camping stoves do not include fuel tanks, as they are shown in the photos.

Here are the best camp stoves you can buy:

Updated on 09/032019 by Les Shu: Updated prices, links, and formatting. Added MSR PocketRocket Deluxe, Jetboil Flash, and MSR Whisperlite International.

The best camp stove overall

The MSR PocketRocket Deluxe is a compact and lightweight stove that fits inside a coffee mug but has a convenient auto igniter and simmering capability.

You shouldn't need to carry an extra piece of gear to make a spark, yet, many camping stoves still rely on matches or a lighter to light the flame. Not with the MSR PocketRocket Deluxe, which has a built-in automatic piezo igniter that's cased in steel for reliability.

Despite its small size and weight, the PocketRocket Deluxe is no slouch. It can boil a liter of water in less than four minutes. The burner is adjustable, so you can lower the heat for a simmer — something that's hard to achieve with a one-setting burner. There's also a built-in pressure regulator to ensure you get reliable and fast cooking until the gas canister is depleted.

As long as you place the stove (with gas canister attached) on a level surface, it will support anything from a frying pan to a small cup. Like all lightweight backpacking stoves, the PocketRocket Deluxe will only run on self-sealing isobutane fuel canisters. If you're flying to a destination, simply do what I do: Since you can't bring a gas canister onto a plane or have it shipped, I stop by a local outdoors retailer after I've arrived, to pick one up (you can also get advice on where to camp, hike, and climb, if you aren't familiar with an area).

I've used this stove extensively, as well as other PocketRocket variants. I like the simplicity of the design, and with the deluxe version, I now have the convenience of a push-start igniter; the igniter adds an extra 10 grams when compared to the standard PocketRocket, but it's totally worth it. What I also like is MSR's warranty: Even after years of abuse, MSR stands by its products and offers extremely economical repair or replacement options.

Compared to our previous overall pick, the Snow Peak LiteMax Titanium, the PocketRocket Deluxe is heavier. But the LiteMax Titanium is pricier, isn't as stable, and lacks MSR's warranty.

Whether I'm camping in my car or on a complicated thru-hiking trip, the PocketRocket Deluxe's excellent durability and the convenience of the built-in igniter make it one item I now bring along. Outdoor Gear Lab gave the stove its Editors' Choice award, although it thought the igniter was not reliable. — James Stout

Pros: Lightweight and compact, self-igniting, simmers well

Cons: Not the best in high-wind without a screen



The best budget camp stove

The Coleman Bottle Top Propane Stove acts like a standard stovetop burner, and it's powerful, rugged, and well priced.

You know how the razor companies get you by selling the handles cheap but then pricing the blade cartridges at astronomical rates? It can be like that with camp stove fuel, too. But the best field stove in the world is just a paperweight without fuel, so buy it you will, regardless of the price. With the Coleman Bottle Top Propane Stove, those canisters of propane fuel are surprisingly low-priced — you can often get a two-pack of the 16-ounce fuel cylinder for less than 10 bucks. One such tank will burn for two hours at full blast and as long as eight or nine hours on a low setting. So if you want to make campsite risotto, go for it. Oh, and the stove itself is affordable, too.

Flame control is remarkably easy with this stove, just twist that large plastic knob all the way open for a roaring 10,000-BTU output or dial it back for hours of simmering. And thanks to the deep bowl shape and generous wind baffles, this stove will maintain a consistent burn in all but the most powerful gusts of wind. The burner is large and stable enough to accommodate an 8-inch pan or pot, so you really can almost treat it like a standard stovetop.

I used one of these stoves for several years and still keep one on hand in case the stove in my house ever has a problem or for some sort of apocalyptic nightmare during which I still wanted to cook pasta. But you'll probably never see me bringing this stove along for another hike or climb. Why? Weight and size. This stove weighs more than two pounds, with the canister adding another three pounds or more when filled. That's heavier than some tents and sleeping pads combined. So while I highly recommend this stove for car campers or emergency preparedness, it's a poor choice for climbers or trekkers.

That said, the Coleman Bottle Top Propane Stove currently enjoys a 4.6 out of 5-star rating on Amazon. If there's one thing many people singled out about their Coleman stove, it's reliability. One customer who bought her stove years before Amazon even existed, wrote, "I purchased this [stove] in 1992 and use it regularly while camping today." Anne's Travels blog says the Coleman stove is "great for a large pot" and "fuel efficient." — Steven John

Pros: Low price point, long burn time, easy flame output adjustment

Cons: Very heavy and bulky



The best high-powered camp stove

The Mr. Steak 1-Burner Infrared Portable Grill cranks out 14,000 BTUs and can heat up to an astounding 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you're pushing for the mountain summit of Denali or the Eiger, then it's probably best to leave the Mr. Steak 1-Burner Infrared Portable Grill back at base camp. At around 30 pounds and measuring 25 by 16 by 16 inches, this is most definitely a car camping grill. But with that size comes 165 square inches of cooking space, below which an immensely powerful ceramic infrared burner can heat up to as much as 1,000 degrees. Not that you will need that much heat most of the time, but hey, it's there for you.

The Mr. Steak 1-Burner Infrared Portable Grill works with a standard one-pound propane cylinder (the squat green ones, like the ones the Coleman stove uses) and has an electronic ignition system. When you're not using the grill, you can fold its legs up for easier storage or transport, and when you are using it, you'll appreciate the cool-to-the-touch silicone cover on the handle and a latch that can hold the cover open while you're flipping burgers.

An Amazon customer who owns a Mr. Steak grill says he "never would have thought [he] could personally grill steakhouse-quality steak on a lightweight, portable grill like this one," adding that it is "super easy to transport" (unless you're scaling Everest). Another customer calls the grill "the best of the best." 

And having owned one, I can attest to both customers' comments. — Steven John

Pros: Amazing heat output, large cook surface, electric ignition system

Cons: Expensive, not suitable for hauling on foot



The best high-tech camp stove

The BioLite CampStove 2 can cook your meal and charge your phone and GoPro camera at the same time thanks to an ingenious built-in generator fueled by heat.

When you're out there in the wilderness, you shouldn't be staring at your phone; you should be looking at the stars, the mountains, or the valleys and such. That said, keeping a charged phone is important for safety — and for selfies. Keeping a rechargeable flashlight fully powered is always a good idea, and those GoPro camera batteries always seem to need recharging, don't they?

Maintaining battery life in all those devices when in the field means carrying battery packs, using a solar charger, or firing up something you're probably traveling with: your stove.

The BioLite CampStove 2 is a wood-burning stove that has a built-in generator capable of producing 3 watts of electricity while the fire is hot. That's enough power to charge small devices, illuminate a Biolite lamp, or to charge the unit's internal battery for later use when the fire isn't burning.

Besides providing power, it's also a damn good stove. With a decent fire built up, the BioLite CampStove 2 can bring a liter of water to boil in less than five minutes and produces plentiful heat for cooking. In fact, there are compact fans inside the burn chamber that you can set at four different speeds to increase or decrease the intensity of the heat.

That's right: This is a wood-burning, electricity-producing stove that effectively has adjustable heat settings. How badass is that?

A reviewer from GearChase put the BioLite CampStove 2 through the motions and found it easy to cook "with fuel found easily around a campsite" thanks to the high heat output. He also found the "build quality very durable."

The Insider Picks team is a fan of BioLite's gear, having tested a few of the products and visited its design studio. Check out our review of the BioLite FirePit. — Steven John

Pros: Charges small devices, built-in fans regulate heat, works with myriad accessories

Cons: Getting initial fire burning can be frustrating



The best stove for fast boiling

The Jetboil Flash gets a lot of water really hot, really fast. If you primarily rely on your stove to make hot drinks and rehydrate meals, this is the stove for you.

When I get back from a long day on the trail, I want the most food in the shortest amount of time. This means pouring hot water onto couscous or a dehydrated meal. If it's the mornings, then it's coffee posthaste. For these moments, I rely on the Jetboil Flash. Using a cleverly-designed pot that's attached to a large burner — it looks (and sound) like a jet engine — the Flash can boil 16 ounces of water in less than two minutes. It is so fast that the first time I used it, it began boiling over while I was still prepping my meal.

This is a product designed with backpackers in mind. The whole thing packs down into the provided pot and even has space for a small fuel canister. Not only does this mean it takes up very little space, it also makes it hard to lose or forget a part of the stove.

If you want to sear, sauté, and simmer, the Jetboil Flash isn't for you. Although there are accessories that will let you use a frying pan, this is really a stove for heating your water fast, which is all most backpackers need. — James Stout

Pros: Boils water quickly, contains all the parts inside the pot, push-button ignition

Cons: Can be hard to clean, can't be used with other pots or pans easily



The best stove for world travel

The Whisperlite International from MSR can go anywhere and burn almost anything. If you're traveling to remote locations, this is the reliable and rebuildable stove to take with you.

Isobutane is great for cooking fast with a steady flame and comes packaged in convenient canisters. Unfortunately, you can't fly with it, which could be an issue if you're going to some remote area where there isn't a camping store nearby. In this type of situation, the MSR Whisperlite International is a better alternative. Not only can the stove burn white gas, kerosene, or unleaded gas, it is also incredibly robust.

I own a Whisperlite that I've entirely rebuilt (under the supervision of a qualified technician, so don't worry if you come camping with me) and could easily fix in the field, even on long expeditions. MSR not only offers refurbishment of their stoves, they also include many of the tools and spare parts in the package, meaning that you could be taking the Whisperlite International on adventures for years to come.

This reliability combines with MSR's clever "shaker jet" design, which prevents the fuel jet from getting clogged by using a needle inside the jet — cleaning it out when the stove is shaken. All of this makes the Whisperlite International the go-to choice for big expeditions.

With some practice, you'll be able to quickly light the Whisperlite International (you do need to bring a lighter). Advanced users can regulate the flame enough to simmer water if required. I'll admit that most of my uses have been limited to heating water and making oatmeal and coffee, but more adventurous cooks will be happy with the Whisperlite, especially when the alternative is going stove-less or using a wood or alcohol stove with pitiful heat output. — James Stout

Pros: Compatible with various types of fuel, excellent longevity

Cons: Not the lightest stove



Check out our other great camping gear guides

The best tents you can buy for your next adventure

With a good tent, you can always feel at home, even when you're actually miles from civilization and a few thousand feet up in the mountains. The Mountainsmith Morrison EVO 2 Person tent is our top choice for best tent, thanks to its great price, ease of setup, and ability to keep you warm and dry even in bad weather.

You should also consider the Flytop Outdoor Backpacking 2 Person Tent, the ALPS Mountaineering Tasmanian 3 Person Tent, and the Coleman Evanston Screened 6 Person Tent. One of these options will surely suit you and your fellow outdoor enthusiasts.


The best camping cookware you can buy

A great set of camping cookware brings the comfort of the kitchen to the campsite. The Gear4U Camping Cookware Mess Kit is our top pick because it contains 13 useful items that tuck together into one compact package weighing just 1.3 pounds. Here are all of our favorites:


The best backpacking tents you can buy

Sacrificing weight while backpacking is common, but you don't have to sacrifice comfort, too.

Ultimately, the type of tent you pick to join you on the long haul depends on the type of trip you intend to take. Short trips can err on the side of a heavier tent while longer, multi-day trips may call for an ultralight option. No matter the scenario, tent makers like Big Agnes, MSR, and even REI have a sea of available options designed specifically to keep you cozy while catching some shut-eye.

Here are our top picks for the best backpacking tents:


The best sleeping bags you can buy

A sleeping bag is more than a matter of comfort. In extreme circumstances, having the right sleeping bag can be a matter of life and death. But that's no reason not to find one that's nice and cozy, too.

Here are the best sleeping bags you can buy:



Why the Chase Freedom Unlimited is the best credit card for college students

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Chase Freedom Unlimited

  • College is an ideal time to start building a credit history, which is vital later on when it's time to open utility accounts, apply for car loans and mortgages, and even apply to rent an apartment.
  • For those without credit history, the best way to start is to be added to a parent's account, or open a secured credit card.
  • After that, the smartest move is to open a "real" credit card, like the Chase Freedom Unlimited.

Credit card debt can be brutal and punishing — as the total amount of credit card debt in the US jumped to nearly $4.1 trillion this year, there's no question that it's something you generally want to avoid, especially if you're younger and less financially stable.

This is a message that younger generations seem to have received loud and clear. Data suggests that millennials have been wary of cards, although a recent study shows that they may be starting to embrace them.

While that might seem like bad news, it's actually a positive for the millennial generation, and as Generation Z reaches adulthood, it's vital that they follow suit — responsibly, of course.

Why college students should care about their credit profile

Virtually every American has a credit profile, which is a history of their use of credit, including accounts held, past borrowing, and payment history. Banks that issue loans and credit cards use the information in your credit profile to determine how trustworthy you are, and how likely it is that you'll pay back whatever you may owe in the future.

Your credit score, meanwhile, is a numerical representation of all of the raw information in your credit profile. It's made up of a few components, including your history of on-time payments, how much outstanding revolving debt you have proportionate to your total credit line, and the average length or age of your credit history.

Having a solid credit score isn't just important for mortgages and loans, though. Most landlords will run a credit check before approving your application to rent an apartment. Similarly, companies like utility providers and cell phone carriers check your credit score to make sure you've displayed responsible payment behavior in the past. 

Read more:How to build credit to increase your credit report

Why college students should build credit with a card

The responsible use of credit cards is an essential part of establishing a healthy credit history, which is crucial for securing major consumer loans and mortgages. I've known people five, six, and seven years out of college who've had trouble opening utility accounts, or signing up for a now-needed credit card, because they had no credit history. That created a ton of headaches that would have been easier if they had started building credit during school.

Once you have a credit card, the key is to simply use it exactly as if it were a debit card.

A lot of the fear of credit cards comes from a misunderstanding of how they work. Just because you use one doesn't mean you're taking on debt — you can (and should) pay more than the minimum required payment each month. If you pay the full statement amount — or the full balance — before the due date each time, you won't be charged any interest. Plus, you'll be able to earn rewards or take advantage of various protections and benefits.

How college students can build credit with a card

For college students, there are three good ways to start building credit.

1. Become an authorized user on a parent's account

When you're added as an authorized user on a parent or other loved one's account, you'll get a card with your name on it, but connected to their account. A lot of parents might want to do this so that you have a card to use in case of an emergency, but there's a second benefit. 

Even if you never make a charge on the card, the entirety of that single account's history will be added to your credit profile. Of course, it's important that the account you're added to doesn't have any negative marks, so that you only have positive data points. 

When I left for college, my mom added me to her oldest account, an Amex card. When I checked my credit report a few years later using Credit Sesame, I saw her entire account history on my profile as if it were mine — it showed "my" account as being older than I was!

Read more:How to build credit with a credit card

2. Open a secured credit card

If you've never been added to a parent's account, or you aren't able to be added, you still have an option — get a secured credit card.

A secured credit card is one where you put down a deposit — for example, $200 — and then you get a card with a credit limit of the same amount. You can pay the card on time and prove that you're responsible, and eventually upgrade it to an unsecured credit card and get your deposit back.

You can usually get a secured card from the primary bank you use for your checking account. Alternatively, Discover offers a solid option that even earns cash back.

Read more:The best credit cards for college students with little to no credit history

3. Open a "real" credit card

Although being an authorized user on an account or having a secured credit card can help build your early credit, you should still open a "real" credit card as soon as you have that early history established. You can open a student credit card through wherever you bank, but a better option is to open a solid cash-back or rewards card.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is an ideal option.

Why the Chase Freedom Unlimited is ideal for college students

The Freedom Unlimited earns 3% back on all purchases in your first year up to $20,000 spent, then 1.5% back on all other purchases going forward. It has no annual fee, and it features an introductory 0% APR for the first 15 months, so if you want to break the rule and carry a balance for a few months (for instance, if you need to replace an aging laptop but it's a bit too pricey right now) without paying interest, this provides a great opportunity (after the introductory APR offer, a variable APR of 16.99% to 25.74% applies — so you should definitely pay off the balance by then).

While there are a few cards out there that offer 2% cash back, the real appeal of the Freedom Unlimited is that while the card is marketed as "cash back," it actually earns Chase's Ultimate Rewards (UR) points that you can redeem for cash (1 point = $0.01).

Down the line, when you're ready to upgrade to a card that earns better rewards, you could consider opening the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card so you can start enjoying free travel by using your points. You can pool your points from the two cards, and get a bonus when purchasing travel through Chase, or transfer them to travel partners like British Airways and Hyatt.

Click here to learn more about the Chase Freedom Unlimited from our partner The Points Guy.

SEE ALSO: All our credit card reviews — from cash-back to travel rewards to business cards — in one place

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15 celebrity-owned liquor brands, ranked by the price of a bottle

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casamigos

What do George Clooney, David Beckham, Ryan Reynolds, and Angelina Jolie have in common — apart from being incredibly famous?

They're all making money from your liquor cabinet.

The number of celebrity liquor brands has gone through the roof in recent years — and with Clooney's tequila company selling for $1 billion in 2017, it's easy to see why.

Read more:Stars like George Clooney, Ryan Reynolds, and Bob Dylan have struck gold with liquor launches, and countless celebrities are following suit

Endorsements and side businesses are some of the easiest ways for celebrities to diversify their revenue streams and earn passive income — and you may be surprised to find how many celebrities choose to make their business ventures in the liquor industry.

Business Insider compiled a list of brands you may not have known were owned by celebrities, and ranked them by the average the price of a bottle, from cheapest to most expensive.

Scroll down to see which celebrity tipples will deliver the most bang for your buck.

SEE ALSO: 13 alcohol brands you didn't realize were owned by celebrities

15. Drew Barrymore, Barrymore Wines — $22-$28

Price source: Barrymore Wines.

Barrymore partnered with the Carmel Road winemaker Kris Kato to create Barrymore Wines.

"I am passionate about wine," Barrymore says on the brand's website. "There is so much to discover and experience and my travels help me do that."



14. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, Miraval Rosé — £19.95 ($24)

Price source: Berry Bros & Rudd.

While they were together, Jolie and Pitt produced the award-winning Château Miraval rosé wine.

The pair bought Château Miraval in Provence in 2008 for a reported €40 million. They even got married on the estate in August 2014.

A source told People in February 2018 that nothing had changed with the company, despite the couples split in 2016.

Jolie and Pitt intend to keep the property "as an investment for their children," the source said.



13. Channing Tatum, Born and Bred Vodka — $30

Price source: Universal Package Store.

Tatum partnered with Grand Teton Distillery to create Born and Bred Vodka in 2017.

"Now, I'm a stripper that became an actor that I guess is working in vodka," Tatum told Bon Appetit. "Nothing surprises me anymore."



12. Ryan Reynolds, Aviation Gin — $33

Price source: ReserveBar.

Last year, Reynolds announced that he had become the official owner and chairman of Aviation Gin, owned by Davos Brands — and it all came about after he tried the gin for the first time, declared it the "best-tasting gin in the world," and decided to invest.

Aviation, which was founded in Portland, Oregon, is one of the world's best-rated gins, according to data from Wine Enthusiast, a drinks magazine.

It claims to have a "much smoother, easier drinking flavor than typical London Dry gins."



11. Justin Timberlake, Sauza 901 Tequila — $34

Price source: ReserveBar.

In 2014, Timberlake partnered with Sauza Liquors to relaunch his own tequila.

"We're not interested in going out and doing a talking-head routine," said Bill Newlands, who was president of Beam North America at the time.

"We believe in finding a founder. Yes, he happens to be a celebrity and that has a lot of value," Newlands added, "but he has a lot of passion for this."



10. P. Diddy, Ciroc Vodka — $39

Price source: ReserveBar.

Sean "Diddy" Combs changed the fortunes of Ciroc vodka. When Diddy partnered with the brand in the late 2000s, "Ciroc was just a middling vodka brand being shilled by no-name former NFL players," Zack O'Malley Greenburg, the author of "3 Kings: Diddy, Dr. Dre, Jay-Z, and Hip-Hop's Multibillion-Dollar Rise," told Business Insider.

"Diddy came on and he applied his typical marketing panache and his shock-and-awe salesmanship," Greenburg said. "Within only a few years, Ciroc was number two in the premium vodka category, to only Grey Goose doing about 2 million cases a year."



9. Drake, Virginia Black Whiskey — $40

Price source: ReserveBar.

Along with the former financier Brent Hocking and the drinks firm Promixo Spirits, Drake launched Virginia Black whiskey in June 2016.

The idea for the brand was based on the "style, fashion, and music of the '70s," where "nightlife was truly nightlife," Hocking said.

Hocking said Drake was fully involved in the "creative process" and added that the partnership was "authentic."



=7. Nick Jonas, Villa One Tequila — $45

Price source: Sip Whiskey.

Nick Jonas is the latest star to lend his name to a liquor brand. The singer and actor recently launched Villa One Tequila with fashion designer John Varvatos, with whom he came up with the idea while they were on vacation in Mexico.

"When we brought our friends together over tequila in Mexico, we learned that we share the same values — enjoying time with friends and family, old and new, one glass at a time," Jonas said in a statement given to Insider.

Villa One Tequila is currently available in silver, reposado, and anejo varieties.



=7. George Clooney, Casamigos Tequila — $45

Price source: ReserveBar.

Casamigos Tequila was founded by Clooney along with two friends, the bar and restaurant mogul Rande Gerber and the Discovery Land Company CEO Mike Meldman.

Clooney and Gerber were spending time at their homes in Cabo, Mexico, when they came up with the idea for a tequila.

Casamigos was sold to Diageo in 2017 for $1 billion.

Clooney, Gerber, and Meldman have remained involved with company since its acquisition.



6. David Beckham, Haig Club Whisky — $47

Source: Master of Malt.

David Beckham helped launched Haig Club whisky in 2014 with an ad campaign that exuded style and luxury.

They've since launched a cheaper expression in the form of Haig Club Clubman, which is encouraged to be drunk with cola.

In a statement, Haig Club said: "This alliance is co-operative at every level and a true hands-on approach in which all partners play a role in everything from business plan development to in-market activation. The partnership is one that generates a real diversity of ideas, bringing a modern twist to a traditional category."



5. Bob Dylan, Heaven's Door Spirits — $50-$80

Price source: Forbes.

The Nobel Prize-winning Dylan recently launched a range of whiskies in collaboration with Marc Bushala — the liquor entrepreneur behind Angel's Envy bourbon, which was sold to Bacardi for $125 million.

The Heaven's Door range includes a rye, a seven-year-old bourbon, and a double-barreled whiskey.



4. Marilyn Manson, Absinthe Mansinthe — $52.50

Price source: Absinthes.com.

Manson owns the absinthe brand Mansinthe.

The label artwork is a self-portrait watercolor painting done by Manson titled "When I Get Old."

While the drink matches the singer's scandalous personality, it had good reception — it was even the Gold Medal Winner at the 2008 San Francisco World Spirit Competition.



3. Kyle Maclachlan, Pursued By Bear Wine — $60

Price source: Pursued by Bear.

Pursed by Bear is a range of wines from the actor and grape-lover MacLachlan, in collaboration with Dunham Cellars in Walla Walla, Washington.

It launched with a Cabernet Sauvignon in 2005 and has limited production.



2. Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, Dos Hombres mezcal — $62

Price source: ReserveBar.

The "Breaking Bad" actors recently announced the launch of Dos Hombres, an "artesanal mezcal" that's designed to be shared.

Paul and Cranston came up with the idea in a New York sushi bar, according to the brand's Instagram account. The pair said they formed a special bond while filming the famous AMC series, and needed a project to stay in each other's company beyond the silver screen.

"We started Dos Hombres to create a Mezcal that we thought was perfect," reads a statement on the website signed by Paul and Cranston. "A unique blend of the finest Espadin agave, hand-selected from the hillsides of a small village in Oaxaca, Mexico."



1. Jay-Z, Armand de Brignac Champagne — $326

Price source: Wine Chateau.

Jay-Z's origin in the liquor industry stems from a feud with Cristal Champagne. When the director of the company that makes Cristal was asked about what he thought of all the rappers drinking their Champagne and including it in their lyrics, he said: "What can we do? We can't forbid people from buying it."

"Jay-Z heard about his comments, he removed it from his 40/40 Club, and more importantly, he started issuing this sort of directive to his fans not to drink it either," Zack O'Malley Greenburg, the author of "3 Kings: Diddy, Dr. Dre, Jay-Z, and Hip-Hop's Multibillion-Dollar Rise," told Business Insider.

"Instead of rapping about Cristal, he put his money where is mouth was, he ended up investing in — and eventually taking over — French Champagne brand called Armand de Brignac, AKA Ace of Spades," Greenburg said.



Planned Parenthood is expanding its birth control app to all 50 states in the wake of Trump's massive funding cut

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planned parenthood defunding abortion

  • Planned Parenthood announced plans to expand its telehealth app "Planned Parenthood Direct" which offers birth control home delivery, prescriptions for UTI treatments, and other health and educational services for people in the US. 
  • The app currently operates in 27 states and D.C., and will be live in all 50 states by the end of 2020. 
  • The expansion of the telehealth app comes in the wake of President Trump's "gag rule" policy which prohibits family planning clinics that provide abortion services or referrals from receiving $286 million in federal funding. 
  • Since Planned Parenthood decided not to comply with this new policy, the organization lost $60 million in federal funding, possibly affecting 1.5 million people in the US. 
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Planned Parenthood is making plans to help more people get access to birth control and other medical treatments, as the organization faces challenges on a number of fronts.

The organization is expanding its "Planned Parenthood Direct" telehealth app to the entire US by the end of next year. The app is currently available in 27 states and D.C., and offers services like birth control delivery and treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs).

"Planned Parenthood is continually looking for new ways to reach people with the care they need," Alexis McGill Johnson, acting president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, said in a statement. "As politicians across the country try to restrict or block access to critical reproductive and sexual health care, the Planned Parenthood Direct app is just one part of the work we do to ensure that more people can get the care they need."

Planned Parenthood gets massive federal funding cut 

About two weeks ago, Planned Parenthood had to forfeit $60 million in federal funding after withdrawing from a key program that funds family planning over new abortion-related restrictions. The organization is also looking for permanent leadership, after President Dr. Leana Wen was ousted by the board, after less than a year on the job. 

Planned Parenthood withdrew from the federal program, called Title X, after the Trump Administration issued a regulation, known as the "gag rule," that prohibits family planning clinics that receive such funding from providing privately funded abortions or referring patients to abortion services.

Title X was established in 1970 and is a federal program that helps low-income and uninsured Americans access to family planning and reproductive care by giving grants to healthcare providers. 

The organization could not comply with the rule, and therefore lost funding which could affect over 1.5 million people in the US, many of whom are uninsured and rely on Title X and Planned Parenthood's services. 

"We will not let this administration deter us from our mission," McGill Johnson said in a press conference call. "We are committed to breaking down barriers by leveraging tech with the most trusted care of our providers. We will fill the gaps of access to healthcare for people regardless of their zip code or income."

The telehealth app offers access to health services across the US 

Planned Parenthood Direct graphic

The app started as a pilot project in 2014, beginning in three densely populated states, California, Texas, and Flordia, proving to be successful. The app allows users to get prescription birth control pills delivered to their door, get UTI treatment sent to a nearby pharmacy, learn about different methods of birth control, and make an appointment at a Planned Parenthood health center.

The cost for birth control is about $20 per pack, the organization said. UTI visits cost about $15 to $25, while the cost of a prescription to treat the infection can range from about $4 to $60, depending on a patient's insurance and which medicine they take.

Other health clinics have also withdrawn from Title X. Maine Family Planning, which runs 18 reproductive health clinic sites throughout the state, exited the program, giving up $2 million in funding or around 30% of its budget Business Insider reported

Other startups and methods to increase access to health services and education 

The purpose of expanding the app, which is free and can be downloaded on a smartphone, is to provide greater access to services like birth control. A number of other for-profit birth control startups have a similar mission.

"Millions of women live in contraception deserts," Joel Wishkovsky, the CEO and cofounder of the birth control delivery startup Simple Health, recently told Business Insider. "Oftentimes, so many of these people are struggling with cost and can't afford the copay, or exam fees. We go into the heart of these contraception deserts to give them access to the healthcare they need."  

Earlier this year, Planned Parenthood launched a sexual and reproductive health chatbot, called Roo, which provides people with answers to any of their questions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The organization also has a program called Chat/Text, which offers people live conversations with trained educators via instant messages or text. 

Join the conversation about this story »

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How to add widgets on your iPhone to quickly access information from your favorite apps in 'Today View'

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iPhone XS Max

  • You can add widgets on an iPhone to display compact versions of your apps on the Today View screen, which will show you summary information without having to open the app.
  • To add a widget to your iPhone, tap the Edit button at the bottom of the Today View screen and move widgets from the bottom of the screen to the top using the plus buttons. 
  • You can rearrange and remove widgets to thoroughly customize your Today View to your liking. 
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Widgets – small versions of larger apps that live on the Today View screen – are a popular way to customize your iPhone

Some widgets, like the Weather app, simply display a compact summary of what you could find by opening the app. 

Other apps are interactive. For example, the Shazam widget lets you find out what song you're hearing over the speakers in the coffee shop with a tap, while the Shortcuts widget launches your favorite shortcuts. 

You probably have dozens of widgets on your iPhone waiting to be added to the Today View screen. Here's how to do it. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPhone Xs (From $999.99 at Best Buy)

How to add widgets on an iPhone

Not all apps have their own widgets, but when they do, you don't have to do anything special to download or install them – widgets are installed on your phone along with the apps they belong to. 

But widgets won't appear on the Today View screen automatically. You can add them from the bottom of the screen.

1. Go to your Today View screen. You can get there by swiping to the right from the Home page, from the Notification center, or even from the Lock screen. 

widget 1

2. Scroll to the bottom and tap "Edit." You might need to unlock your phone.

widget 2

3. In the More Widgets section, you'll find widgets for many of the apps installed on your phone. Find a widget you want to add and tap the plus sign. It'll immediately appear at the top of the page. 

widget 3

4. After you've added all the widgets you want to the Today View screen, you can rearrange them using the drag bars on the right side of the screen. 

5. To remove a widget, tap the minus sign on the left side of the screen. 

6. When you're finished, tap "Done."

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best iPhone accessories from cases to lightning cables

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How to block someone on LinkedIn or unblock them, using your computer or the mobile app

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linkedin inmail

  • You can block someone on LinkedIn by navigating to their profile and simply pressing the block button.
  • You can block up to 1,000 people on LinkedIn, and if you unblock someone, you'll have to wait 48 hours to re-block them.
  • The person you block won't receive a notification saying that they've been blocked, unless you've shared a LinkedIn Recruiter account.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

LinkedIn can be a great place to connect with professional contacts, both known and unknown, and thereby expand your network. 

However, when you accept invitations from people you don't know or don't want to hear from, things can get uncomfortable — fast. That's when blocking becomes a good option.

On LinkedIn, blocking a person means that you will no longer be connected (if you are), and you won't be able to message each other, or view each other's profiles or updates. You can block up to 1,000 people on the platform.

In most cases, the other person won't get a notification about being blocked. The only exception is if you're currently sharing or have previously shared a LinkedIn Recruiter account with this person. So you probably don't have to worry about backlash or hurt feelings when you block someone on the site.

Here's how to block on LinkedIn, whether on desktop, or using the iPhone or Android mobile app.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPhone Xs (From $999.99 at Best Buy)

Google Pixel 3 (From $799.99 at Best Buy)

How to block someone on LinkedIn

The process is the same whether you're using the desktop or mobile version of the site:

1. Go to the profile of the person you want to block.

2. Click (or tap) the "More…" button. This will be located to the right of their name on desktop, and below their name on mobile.

3. In the menu that appears, select "Report or Block."

1 HOW TO BLOCK SOMEONE LINKEDIN

4. Choose "Block [Name]."

3 HOW TO BLOCK SOMEONE LINKEDIN

5. Select "Block" to confirm your choice.

You can also unblock a person if you change your mind. 

How to unblock someone on LinkedIn

Desktop

1. Click the "Me" icon in the top toolbar. 

2. Choose "Settings and Privacy." 

3. Under the Privacy tab, select "Blocking and Hiding" on the left sidebar. 

4. Next, click "Change," located next to "Blocking." 

5. Finally, click "Unblock" next to the name of the person you want to unblock.

Mobile

1. Navigate to your profile page.

2. Tap the gear icon in the top-right of the screen.

3. At the top of the Settings screen will be four tabs. Select "Privacy."

4. Scroll down until you find "Who you're blocking" and tap it.

IMG_3818

5. Tap "Unblock."

6. Confirm that you want to unblock this person by entering your password.

If for some reason you want to block this person again, keep in mind that you'll have to wait 48 hours after unblocking to reblock them.

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

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How to buy and read Kindle books on your iPhone

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Woman surprised using iPhone

  • Because the Kindle app is available for the iPhone, you can use your phone to buy and read Kindle books.
  • You can't buy Kindle books on your iPhone using the Kindle or Amazon apps, though. You'll need to log into Amazon using the Safari app on your phone (or a browser on your computer).
  • Once you buy a Kindle book using a web browser, the book immediately appears in your Kindle library on every device.  
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

The iPhone is a great ebook reader — perhaps even better than a standalone Kindle reader — because it runs a wide variety of ebook apps, putting millions of electronic books at your fingertips. 

But if you want to read Kindle books on your iPhone, you need to buy the books and get them installed on your iPhone first. This isn't quite as straightforward as it might seem, because you can't purchase books using the iPhone Kindle app, or even the Amazon app. 

Instead, you need to buy your Kindle books in a web browser. You can do that in a browser on your computer, or using the Safari app on your iPhone. It doesn't matter where you buy the book, since it'll be available in every Kindle app and device that's signed into the Amazon account you used to buy the book. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

Amazon Kindle (From $89.99 at Amazon)

iPhone Xs (From $999.99 at Best Buy)

How to buy Kindle books on the iPhone

1. Open the Safari app and navigate to Amazon.com.

2. If you're not already logged in, sign into Amazon using your account information. 

kindle 1

3. Find the Kindle title that you want to buy. Be sure that you choose the Kindle format. You can choose your iPhone in the "Deliver to" dropdown menu, but that's not required — the book will be available on every Kindle app and device logged into your Amazon account. 

kindle 2

4. Complete the purchase.

5. Now open the Kindle app. If a book is open, close it and go to the Library view. 

6. You should see the book in the "All" tab. To read the book, tap its cover to download it to your phone. 

kindle 3

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

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Allbirds collaborated with Just Water on limited-edition shoes and 100% of the proceeds support Amazon wildfire relief

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  • Allbirds has collaborated with Just Water, a sustainable food and beverage brand, on two limited-edition styles.
  • Both brands focus on using natural, sustainable materials in their products, which are showcased in the shoes. 
  • One hundred percent of proceeds from each sale will go to the Amazon Forest Fund to support wildfire relief. 

For brands, a B Corp title is more than just a label — it's a commitment to creating a better business by prioritizing a purpose (whether it be social, environmental, or otherwise) greater than profit alone. It's only natural, then, that these companies often use their platforms to respond to broader issues.

Allbirds is one of our favorite B Corps — not only does it have a great mission as a brand dedicated to sustainability in fashion, it also makes really comfortable shoes. In the wake of the devastating wildfires in the Amazon, Allbirds paired up with Just Water, an environmentally responsible bottled-water brand (founded by Will and Jaden Smith), to launch two limited-edition styles. The collaboration boasts two fun colorways on the classic Tree Toppers and Tree Runners, and 100% of the proceeds from the collaboration will go to the Amazon Forest Fund (started by Allbirds investor Leonardo DiCaprio) to support wildfire relief. 

The styles 

The Allbirds and Just Water styles celebrate the similarities between the shoe and water brand. You'll find limited-edition colorways of the Tree Topper and Tree Runner, in both men's and women's sizes. 

allbirds

The Just Runners cost $95, while the Just Toppers are $115. Both feature Just Water's signature blue in the accents.

Both the toppers and runners come with a three-piece lace kit, with colors inspired by Just Water's infused water flavors. Additionally, you'll find a small water droplet on the back tabs of each shoe, a sweet nod to Just Water's role in the collaboration. 

These limited-edition styles won't cost you any more than a regular pair would, but they will go towards a great cause. If you want to make a purchase you can feel good about, we'd recommend checking these out now. 

Shop the Allbirds x Just Water collection here

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Target says these will be the 28 toys every kid wants this holiday season (TGT)

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target toys

Target is looking to hit a bullseye with its toy selection this holiday season.

The national retailer just published its latest "Bullseye's Top Toys" list, its annual roundup of the top-rated toys for the upcoming holiday season. These 28 products include action figures, board games, hover boards, and gaming tech. Some items feature deals exclusive to Target, while others appear to reflect the company's recent team-up with Disney.

Read more: Walmart says these will be the 48 toys every kid wants this holiday season

"Coupled with our expanded fulfillment options, including our popular same-day services, we're making it easier than ever for families and gift-givers to choose Target this holiday season," Target senior vice president of merchandising Christina Hennington said in a statement posted on the retailer's website.

Here's a look at the most anticipated toys at Target:

SEE ALSO: 7 mind-blowing facts about Target's business

DON'T MISS: Target is resurrecting its collaborations with Lilly Pulitzer, Zac Posen, Hunter, and other designers, and it's taking precautions to avoid the massive frenzies that plagued past events

SEE ALSO: Target is doubling down on same-day delivery as Walmart and Amazon spar over one-day delivery

L.O.L. Surprise! Amazing Surprise

This toy will be available for pre-order on Target's website on September 20.



Ryan's World Treasure Chest

Price: $79.99Target exclusive



Animal Planet Extreme T-Rex Adventure Playset

Price$39.99Target exclusive



PAW Patrol Super Mighty Pups Lookout Tower

Price$99.99



PJ Masks PJ Seeker

Price: $54.99



Our Generation Movie Theater Playset

Price$149.99Target exclusive



Barbie Malibu House

Price$99.99



Jetson Strike Hoverboard

Price$149.99Target exclusive



Viro Rides Vega 2-in-1 Scooter

Price$299.99Target exclusive



Hot Wheels Colossal Crash Trackset

Price$99.99



Beyblade Burst Turbo Championship Clash Battle Set

Price$79.99Target exclusive



Marvel Avengers: Endgame Titan Hero Series

Price$9.99 to $23.99Target exclusive



Monster Jam Mega Grave Digger RC

Price$99.99



Fortnite Jumbo Loot Llama Piñata

Price$70.99



Fisher-Price Linkimals

Price$26.99



LeapFrog RockIt Twist

Price$49.99



Nintendo Switch

Price$199.99



Really Rad Robots Turbo Bot

Price$49.99



Owleez

Price$49.99



Cry Babies Interactive Baby Doll

Price$49.99Target exclusive



Little Live My Real Rescue Pink Scruff-a-Luv

Price$39.99Target exclusive



Buffalo Games Classic Pinball Board Game

Price$29.99Target exclusive



Pictionary Air

Price$19.99



Capsule Chix Ultimix Pack

Price$49.99



Poopsie Rainbow Surprise Slime Kit

Price$69.99



Cool Maker Go Glam Nail Stamper Kit

Price$24.99



Snapstar Pop Royalty: Echo’s Debut on the Pink Carpet

Price$24.99Target exclusive



How to change your Fitbit Charge 2 band for different looks, whether you're going to work, a social event, or the gym

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Fitbit Charge 2_lunch_0201_CMYK

  • You can change your Fitbit Charge 2 band to create different looks that will be better suited for certain activities. 
  • The classic Fitbit Charge 2 band is made of an elastomer material that resists damage from moisture and is ideal for use during exercise, while a leather Charge 2 band can dress up the tracker for work or social events.
  • It will only take you a minute to change your Fitbit Charge 2 band, so you can change the look of your tracker as often as you'd like.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Without a wristband, a Fitbit Charge 2 won't do you much good. As clever as that little tracker may be, unless it is strapped to your wrist, it can't monitor your heart rate, track your steps, and analyze the quality of your sleep. 

Fortunately, the Charge 2 comes with a wristband, and even better, you can easily change out the band to better fit your personal sense of style or suit the occasion at hand.

When you're exercising or traveling, the Charge 2 Classic band makes the most sense; made from a durable elastomer material that won't be damaged by sweat, rain, spills or other daily hazards, it's a casual and durable choice. 

On the other hand, the Charge 2 can also be connected to a genuine leather band that dresses up the tracker and makes it suitable for use with business casual attire or even with a coat and tie.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

Fitbit Charge 2 (From $177.61 at Walmart)

How to change your Fitbit Charge 2 band

1. Hold the tracker with both hands, and then use a thumb to depress one of the metal latches on the back of the band that is clipped onto the tracker itself.

Screen Shot 2019 09 04 at 9.26.34 AM

2. Repeat with the other thumb on the other half of the band. If the latches do not immediately disconnect, wiggle them lightly.

3. Hold one side of the replacement band slightly above the peg sticking off the side of the tracker, then slide it down until it clicks. Repeat with the other half of the band.

Screen Shot 2019 09 04 at 9.26.40 AM

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best Fitbit you can buy

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

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  • The dishwasher and oven are among the appliance workhorses in a home that need to be cleaned regularly. What are the best cleaners for your appliances?
  • Lemi Shine Multi-Purpose Appliance Cleaner can tackle the crud and odor in your washing machine, dishwasher, and garbage disposal.

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

Luckily, there are easy-to-use products available that can restore appliances back to their prime. Many of them use natural ingredients and are not toxic to the environment or your lungs. Just a seasonal cleaning will usually remove the build-up and flush away odors, allowing the appliances to do their jobs well. Of course, if your household has some big messes, you may need to clean the appliances more often.

Along with my own housekeeping, I've been testing cleaning products for decades as a home economist for companies and publications. You can be assured that I'm always looking for the most effective, easiest to use, and best value in products. After cleaning for a living, the last thing I want to do is work harder when I get home.

Here are the best cleaning products you can buy for kitchen and laundry appliances:

Updated on 09/04/2019 by Les Shu: Updated prices, links, and formatting.

The best appliance cleaner overall

If you are looking for one product that can take care of odors and soil build-up in your dishwasher, garbage disposal, and washing machine, Lemi Shine Multi-Purpose Appliance Cleaner is your best bet.

Even with all of the water and detergents that pass through the dishwasher, garbage disposal, and washing machine, they can still accumulate a layer of residue that traps soil, odor-causing bacteria, and minerals from hard water. When all this gunk clings to the inside of the appliance, it cannot perform optimally and causes problems.

LemiShine has developed a formula, based on crystallized citric extracts, that works to cut through that residue. By adding an envelope of the powder to an appliance and running a cycle with hot water, you will quickly have cleaner dishes and laundry, and odor-free garbage disposal.

A Target shopper says, "I was looking for a product to remove the ... crud in my dishwasher left by our terrible water here in Indianapolis. I chose Lemi Shine because of its safety factor. It worked wonders! So I used it in my disposal and washing machine, too!"

While LemiShine offers individual appliance cleaners, the Multi-Purpose is the best value because of the versatility and price. I keep some on hand for quick and thorough cleanings anytime I see or sniff a problem.

Pros: Non-toxic, uses natural ingredients, fresh scent, pre-measured individual packets, simple to use, suitable for multiple appliances

Cons: Does not clean the outside of the appliances



The best dishwasher cleaner

Easy to use and a top performer, Finish In-Wash Dishwasher Cleaner can be used while you wash a load of dishes. No extra cycle needed.

Stop and think of what lurks on your dishes when you stick them into the dishwasher — grease, bacteria, and crusty food. A good detergent and the volume of hot water swirling in the dishwasher cut through all of that gunk, leaving the dishes clean. But where does the messy stuff go?

Most of it gets flushed away, but some clings to the sides, seals, and components of the dishwasher. Eventually, the build-up becomes too much and redeposits on your dishes. No one needs that.

That's where Finish In-Wash Dishwasher Cleanercomes in to cut through the limescale, grease, and fatty deposits that you can see but also those in the hidden parts of the dishwasher. All that crud can clog pumps, drains, and pipes, which reduce the performance of your machine.

Every three months or so, I simply place one of the tablets in the bottom of the dishwasher tub when I'm ready to run a full wash cycle. There are no wrappers to remove or a need to empty the dishwasher of dirty dishes. Since Finish Quantum Max Powerball Tablets is rated as one of the best dishwasher detergents, using the Finish In-Wash Dishwasher Cleaner was the next natural step.

According to one Amazon shopper, "This worked really well for me. Dishwasher kept leaving food deposits in glasses on the upper rack until I tried these. You don't have to empty dishwasher to use it either, unlike other cleaners I've tried."

Pros: Can be used in a dishwasher loaded with dirty dishes, no wrapper to remove, effectively removes grease deposits, limescale, and odors

Cons: Excellent choice for regular cleaning, but may not remove years of heavy build-up



The best garbage disposal cleaner

The fun-to-watch foaming action of CLR Garbage Disposal Foaming Cleaner and Freshener leaves the disposal free of greasy residue and odors.

Maybe it's because I always loved the vinegar and baking soda volcanoes at the science fair, but watching the foaming action of CLR Garbage Disposal Foaming Cleaner and Freshener makes me happy. Happy because I know that the foam is helping to dislodge bits of food and grease that is causing my garbage disposal to smell quite funky.
 
The individual, premeasured packet contains citric acid and sodium bicarbonate, along with some other ingredients to help cut through the gunk and leave a fresh clean scent. It is so easy to use but you should follow the directions to allow the ingredients time to be effective. The cleaning time is around seven minutes, and there's no need to scrub — just watch the science experiment happen.
 
One Amazon shopper writes, "I love these for cleaning the yucky disposal lines. I use them weekly and keep things fresh smelling and cleaner."
 
I use CLR Garbage Disposal Foaming Cleaner and Freshener when I get a whiff of something foul. It should be noted that these packets will not remove a severe clog or jam in the disposal.
 
Pros: Non-toxic ingredients, simple to use, effectively removes odors and residue from disposal

Cons: Does not remove clogs or jams in the disposal



The best washing machine cleaner

If your laundry isn't smelling as fresh as you'd like, Lemi Shine Washing Machine Cleaner will remove funky odors from the washer that are transferring to your towels and clothes.

Washing machines of the past used nearly 50 gallons of hot water throughout the appliance. With that much water, soil, detergent, fabric softener residue, and bacteria were flushed away.

Today's high-efficiency washing machines use around 14 gallons of water and hold larger loads, and we use more cold and warm water to protect synthetic fabrics. That leaves lots of opportunity for body soil, product residue, and bacteria to cling to the inside of the washer drum and the rubber seals that protect it from leaking.

All that gunk can redeposit on your clothes, making them less than clean and fresh. That's why you need to clean your washer and the best cleaner is Lemi Shine Washing Machine Cleaner. Using non-toxic citric acids, the powder strips away the build-up, and you even get a handy wipe to use after each cleaning cycle to capture any residue on the seals and to wipe down the outside of the washer where drips and soil can accumulate.

I love the fresh scent. One Targer shopper writes, "I originally purchased this product because of the cute packaging but soon realized it was a great cleaner for my machine. Great price!"

Pros: Effectively removes body soil, bacteria, and detergent residue from the washing machine drum, includes wipes for hard-to-reach areas like door seals and the outside of the appliance, non-toxic, and pleasant citrus scent

Cons: Not widely available in all mass-market stores



The best oven cleaner

Spills happen but Easy-Off Professional Max Fume Free Oven Cleaner will take care of the worst messes without burning your lungs or making you scrub forever.

I'm a pie baker who can't seem to remember not to overload the pie plate with filling. Sure enough, the pie bubbles over onto the oven floor. Fortunately, I know that clean-up can be simple with Easy-Off Professional Max Fume Free Oven Cleaner. Until I found this product, I dreaded cleaning the oven because of the fumes. No more.

The key to using this product is having a cold oven. Just spray on the cleaner and wait at least 40 minutes (longer is even better). The grease and spills will wipe away easily. Safe to use in electric and gas ovens and oven racks — even ovens that proclaim to be self-cleaning — Easy-Off Fume Free is an excellent product.

Buyers on Amazon agree. With more than 800 reviews, the average rating is 4.5 stars. One shopper says, "Can use for everyday spot cleaning with only have to let sit for couple hours for minor things. Used on broiler pan that would not scrub clean with even steel wool, no need to scrub ever again now!"

Pros: Fume-free formula, removes heavy, baked-on stains, safe for electric and gas ovens

Cons: Does not work quickly, requires at least 40 minutes to work effectively



The best ceramic cooktop cleaner

Smooth ceramic cooktops are prone to scratching. So how do you get rid of cooked-on spills safely? Weiman Cooktop Cleaner Max can tackle the stains and leave your cooktop scratch-free.

After years of the standard enamel and stainless cooktops that could stand up to scrubbing from a steel wool pad, I ended up with a smooth ceramic cooktop. It looks sleek and conducts heat well, but removing the overflow from a boiling pot is a challenge, until I found Weiman Cooktop Cleaner Max.

The micro-bead technology gives just the right amount of abrasive power to remove burned-on food and grease but doesn't scratch the surface. After cleaning and rinsing, there are no streaks or watermarks left behind. The lemon-scented paste formula is applied with a cleaning pad that is included and stores conveniently on the top of the container.

On Amazon, 75% of reviewers gave it 4 or 5 stars. One shopper writes, "I just recently bought a house. Along with buying a house I bought a new glass top stove. After about three uses of the stove it looked horrible. I didn't even want it in my kitchen. I tried many cleaners and nothing brought up the burned water mark's [sic] on my stove. As a last resort I bought this. Amazing! Looks like a new stove."

Pros: Removes the worst burned-on messes and grease effectively, does not scratch ceramic surfaces, comes with a scrubbing pad

Cons: Does not remove scratches, not readily found in all mass-market stores



How to restart your Fitbit Alta in 3 simple steps to fix issues with the device

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fitbit alta

  • You can restart your Fitbit Alta when it won't work properly to help make the device fully functional again.
  • Unlike other Fitbit trackers, you can't reset the Alta to its factory settings. Restarting your Fitbit Alta won't erase your data, so if you want to wipe your data, you'll have to disconnect it from your Fitbit account.
  • Restarting a Fitbit Alta requires using an official Fitbit charger, so if you need to replace the power cable, make sure you don't buy a third-party brand.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Your Fitbit Alta should seamlessly pair with your phone and computer. If your Alta is having pairing issues, it's running sluggishly, or the screen isn't displaying properly, then a restart is the best way to get the Alta working properly again.

Restarting a Fitbit Alta won't erase your data. In fact, it's impossible to wipe information off the tracker, except by linking it to a new Fitbit account. So don't worry about losing any data when you restart your Alta.

And note that to restart a Fitbit Alta, you need to have an official Fitbit Alta charging cable. Only official Alta chargers have the button you use to reset the device.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

Fitbit Alta (From $71.70 at Amazon)

How to restart the Fitbit Alta

1. Clip the Alta's charger onto the device using the pair of clamps, and make sure the battery icon appears on screen, meaning it's charging.

2. Press the button on the charging cable (found near the USB plug) three times, pausing for about a second between pushes, and make sure to complete all three presses within eight seconds.

Screen Shot 2019 09 04 at 10.53.54 AM

3. You should see the Fitbit logo appear on the screen and feel a gentle vibration. Once you do, disconnect the Alta from the charger.

Once you see the logo and feel the vibration, it means your Alta has restarted.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best Fitbits you can buy

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: The incredible story behind Slack, the app that's taken over offices everywhere

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