• Trick-or-treating has a long and winding history, beginning as a tradition during a Celtic holiday in medieval Europe.
• The modern version of the Halloween tradition began to take shape after it was brought to the US in the 19th century. 
• Read on for the history of trick-or-treating and other Halloween traditions. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

It's that time of year again — when neighborhood kids will go door to door dressed as pirates, ghouls, and superheroes in pursuit of sweets from generous neighbors and shopkeepers.

Nowadays, kids won't necessarily perform any tricks for their treats, but this wasn't always the case.

Halloween has a long and storied history that began in Europe around 2,000 years ago. The earliest versions of the holiday were largely about honoring the souls of the recently deceased and fending off ghosts with not-so-friendly intentions. 

Read more:15 mind-blowing facts about Halloween candy consumption in the US

The holiday took many twists and turns over the years before evolving into the candy- and costume-filled spectacle that more than 160 million Americans take part in today. 

Here's a look at the long and fascinating timeline of trick-or-treating.

SEE ALSO: 15 mind-blowing facts about Halloween candy consumption in the US

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The first trick-or-treaters were poor children in medieval Europe, who would go door-to-door begging for food and money during the Celtic holiday Samhain — celebrated on October 31. In exchange, they would offer to pray for the souls of their neighbors' recently departed loved ones.

This tradition was called "souling." It took place during Samhain, the night before the Celtic New Year, when it was believed that the dead roamed the Earth — and only community prayer could save their souls. 

Source:Today I Found Out 

By the 19th century, the Catholic​ Church had co-opted Samhain and the Celtic New Year, rechristening them 'All Hallow's Eve' and 'All Souls' Day.'

During this era of pre-Halloween, trick-or-treaters got a little more adventurous. Instead of just promising prayer, they started singing songs, telling jokes, or staging doorstep performances for their treats. The tradition came to be known as mumming.

Source:Time, The History Channel

Single young women would perform tricks of their own on All Hallow's Eve, in hopes that they would discover the identities of their future husbands — and ideally be married by the following year.

These tricks involved throwing apple peels or cracking eggs into a bowl in hopes that their future husband's initials would appear. One even had them looking in the mirror in a candlelit room to see a reflection of their beloved's face. 

Source:The History Channel, Mental Floss

Candy didn't get introduced to the trick-or-treating rotation until about the 1920s, but neighbors did hand out a different kind of sweet to 19th-century beggars — a round pastry called a 'soul cake.'

It was made with nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, and raisins, and stamped with a cross on top that symbolized a soul being saved from Purgatory. The earliest soul cakes were placed outside homes to prevent mischievous spirits from playing tricks on All Souls' Day, but eventually, the sweet buns were baked for real-life trick-or-treaters. 

Source:The History Channel, NPR

The 19th century also introduced the offering of nuts and fruits to trick-or-treaters — especially apples. It started with the ​ancient Roman harvest festival of Pomona, named after the goddess of fruitful abundance, which took place on November 1.

Pomona was associated with apples, and apples were in turn considered a symbol of love and fertility. The significance of this fruit likely evolved into the modern-day Halloween tradition of bobbing for apples. 

Source:PBS, The History Channel

Halloween costumes have their origins in a medieval tradition called 'guising,' or disguising oneself as a ghost to blend in with the nefarious spirits who emerged during Samhain.

Ancient Celts would hide behind masks or paint their faces black and wear old clothing so the ghosts wouldn't recognize and taunt them. Later, when the holiday morphed into All Hallow's Eve, people began dressing up as angels, saints, and devils as they roamed the neighborhood bargaining for treats. 

Source:The History Channel 

By the late 19th century, immigrants flooding America from Europe — especially from Ireland during the Irish Potato Famine — brought their All Hallow's Eve traditions with them, and modern-day Halloween started to take shape.

Some American colonists had been celebrating Guy Fawkes Day around the same time of year, but souling and guising quickly took its place. The mass commercialization of Halloween, however, didn't take hold for another 50 years or so.

Source:The History Channel

Much to the dismay of communities throughout the US, mischief truly took over Halloween by the 20th century. And it devolved into full-blown vandalism and crime around the time of the Great Depression.

In the 1920s, souling was replaced with pranking, and the shenanigans only got worse the following decade, when the Great Depression hit. Youth-fueled mischief devolved into flat-out vandalism and violence, as overturned cars, trashed houses, and even harassment and assault became common.

Source:The History Channel

Amid the mayhem, parents and community leaders demanded a call to action. They insisted the more superstitious and scary aspects of the holiday be replaced with more wholesome traditions in order to curb the crime.

This gave rise to organized community get-togethers, activities, and parades in the 1920s, which later morphed into Halloween parties in the 1950s.

Source: The History Channel

One theory holds that modern-day trick-or-treating emerged as a way to bring order to the chaos and keep citizens safe on October 31.

Parents borrowed from the tradition of souling and now offered up their homes as welcoming places for millions of young baby boomers to receive snacks — a sort of friendly bribe in exchange for good behavior and no more trouble-making.

Source:The History Channel, PBS

As the sugar rations of the Great Depression were lifted, candy companies started cashing in on the new Halloween tradition.

At first, costumed kids went door to door for things like coins, toys, nuts, and fruit. But by the 1950s, candy manufacturers saw an opportunity to seize upon the youth-centric holiday and took it. Halloween candy campaigns emerged in full force, parents saw a cost-effective treat that was easy to distribute, and the rest is history.

Source: The Atlantic

The vandalism issue also ushered in the concept of haunted houses.

Although it seems contradictory — as houses decorated with cobwebs and ghouls are just the kind of spooky stuff parents were trying to ban — they felt it was another effective way to distract restless young men during the Great Depression. Families would go all-out with horrifying Halloween decor and booby traps, then invite trick-or-treaters in for a dose of contained mischief.

Source: Smithsonian Magazine, The History Channel

As Halloween parties became more ubiquitous, Halloween treats also evolved into festive baked desserts that were more elaborate than their soul-cake predecessors.

Halloween cookie cutters grew popular for making biscuits shaped like witches and pumpkins. Cupcakes became another holiday favorite and would often be topped with icing in orange and black, which represented harvest and death and were fast becoming Halloween's official colors.

Source:PBS

While holiday baking gets more sophisticated as time goes on, mass-produced candy still rules the trick-or-treating industry.

It's estimated that more than 160 million Americans will buy Halloween candy this year for neighborhood kids — and spend a whopping $2.6 billion on it. Some of the most popular modern-day Halloween candy includes Reese's peanut butter cups, M&Ms, and Milk Duds. Soul cakes? Never heard of 'em.

Source: The Candy Industry, The Balance 

Halloween costumes have also seen a fascinating evolution. The most basic medieval and 19th-century DIY disguises consisted of ghosts, angels, and saints, but by the end of the century, it was all about pop culture.

Mass-produced costumes started to emerge in the early 20th century, when modern-day Halloween really took root. Characters from cartoons, books, and other pop culture mediums were in high demand — and by the time World War II ended, they became much more affordable.

Source:Insider, The Balance

Fast-forward to the present day, and Americans spend a staggering $3.2 billion on Halloween costumes.

While pop culture costumes are still a mainstay, the more traditionally spooky get-ups are still statistically the most coveted across the country. Witches, pirates, vampires, zombies, and ghosts reign supreme, but superheroes are consistently popular choices — especially the Avengers.

Source:Business Insider

Today, commercialism has fully taken over Halloween. In fact, companies use the holiday — which lands one month prior to Black Friday — as the earliest indicator of how profitable they'll be for the holiday season.

In 2018, consumers spent a frightful $9 billion on Halloween, all told.

Source:Business Insider

• If you don't know your Google password, it's easy to recover your account and reset your password. 
• You can also change your Google password at any time, although you'll need to know your current password to do it. 
• It's a good idea to change your Google password every few months to protect from security vulnerabilities. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

There are countless reasons why you might want to change your Google password, from a potential security breach to a newfound need for privacy.

Even if you don't have a specific reason in mind, it's always a wise decision to change your password every few months in order to keep your account secure.

If you forgot your password entirely, you'll likely need to recover it. This process differs slightly from changing your password, and it can be helpful if you don't remember most of your Google account information. 

Here's how to recover your Google password, or change it to a new one. 

How to recover your Google password

If you've recently purchased a new device and don't remember your Google password, you'll need to recover it. 

1. First, go to the web address for account recovery, which is: accounts.google.com/signin/recovery.

2. Once there, you'll be prompted to enter the email address associated with the account you'd like to recover.

3. You'll then be prompted to enter the last password you remember, or if you click on "Try another way" in blue at the bottom left, you can enter answers to your security questions. 

4. Next, you'll reach a screen titled "Account Recovery." Here, you'll request a verification code via phone number or another email address associated with your account.

5. Once you enter the verification code you received, you'll be able to reset your password.

If you don't have a cell phone number or another email address associated with your account, there will be other ways to verify the account by answering security questions, such as when you started your account.

How to change your Google password

1. First, go to your Google account, which you can find at myaccount.google.com.

2. On the left-hand side of the page, click on the tab that says "Security."

3. Then, under "Signing in to Google," you'll see a tab that says "Password," with information on the last time you changed your password next to it.

4. Click on "Password."

5. You'll be prompted to enter your current password. Once you've entered your current password, you'll be taken to a new screen.

6. Here, you will enter your new password and then re-enter it to confirm.

7. Once you've selected your new password, click "Change Password." 

Keep in mind that changing your Google password here means you'll likely need to change it in other areas, too.

Write your new password down so you'll remember it if you're prompted to input it in Gmail, Google Home, or any other devices where you're logged in to Google.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

• How to change your Gmail password on your iPhone using the Gmail app

• How to recover your Google account if you've been hacked, or forgot your email or password

• How to change your default Google account

• How to set up and customize Google Alerts to stay updated on the topics that matter most to you

SEE ALSO: The best laptops you can buy

Join the conversation about this story »

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• Walmart stores are warning shoppers of a "national supply shortage" of dish soap that could last until Dec. 1. 
• A sign posted in a Virginia Walmart store states: "Dish soap is experiencing a national supply shortage, impacting product availability for our customers. These shortages will remain until Dec. 1. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you."
• Walmart and dish-soap makers Procter & Gamble and Colgate-Palmolive did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Walmart stores have posted signs warning shoppers of a "national supply shortage" of dish soap that could last weeks. 

At a Walmart store in Richmond, Virginia, on Tuesday, a sign posted in the soap aisle stated, "Dish soap is experiencing a national supply shortage, impacting product availability for our customers. These shortages will remain until Dec. 1. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you."

The shelves around the sign appeared to be fully stocked with soap, however, despite the ominous warnings of a shortage.

Social media posts indicate that identical signs have been spotted in recent days at other Walmart stores, as well. Three people told Business Insider that they saw the signs at stores in West Virginia, New York, and Pennsylvania.

The reason for the apparent shortages is unclear. Walmart did not respond to requests for comment on the signs.

Business Insider also contacted major dish-soap makers Procter & Gamble and Colgate-Palmolive. P&G makes Dawn and Gain dish soaps, and Colgate-Palmolive makes Palmolive and Ajax soaps. 

The companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Here's what some people are reporting on social media:

SEE ALSO: A chicken recall that hit Kroger, Walmart, and Giant has expanded to at least 83 retailers after products tested positive for listeria contamination. Here's the full list.

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: This animated map shows where Starbucks, Dunkin', and McDonald's coffee comes from

• A 40,000-square-foot Bel-Air estate, known as Casa Encantada, has hit the market with an asking price of $225 million, making it the most expensive property currently listed for sale in America, according to The Los Angeles Times.
• The estate traces its roots back to the 1930s and was once owned by hotel magnate Conrad Hilton.
• The property was later sold to Dole Food CEO and Chairman David Murdock for $12.5 million; Murdock then sold the home to financier David Winnick in 2000 for $94 million. 
• At each of the last two times it was on the market, Casa Encantada was the highest-priced residential property in the US, reports the Times — and if bought for its current asking price, the home will bypass the Spelling Manor to become the most expensive home ever sold in California. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Bel-Air estate Casa Encantada might soon become the most expensive home ever sold in California, reports the Los Angeles Times. 

The 40,000-square-foot property has hit the market with an asking price of $225 million – making it the highest-priced home currently on the market anywhere in the country, per the Times.

Read more: Take a look inside the 100-square-mile Texas ranch that T. Boone Pickens, the oil magnate who just died at 91, listed for $250 million in 2017

Currently owned by financier Gary Winnick, the estate traces its roots back to the 1930s, when it was built for the widow of a glass bottle manufacturer. Since then, it has had many owners. In 1950, it was purchased by hotel magnate Conrad Hilton for $250,000 (or about $2.4 million today), then sold in 1979 to billionaire David Murdock, the chairman and CEO of Dole Foods, for $12.4 million, the Times reports. 

In 2000, Winnick bought the home from Murdock for a reported $94 million and soon led a project to restore the property to its former glory. 

While a PR representative for the estate told Business Insider that interior photos of the property in its current state aren't being released, you can keep reading for a look back at the home's original 1930s glory and to learn more about its history.

SEE ALSO: The most expensive listing in San Francisco just received a $4.5 million price cut, but it's still on track to shatter the city's real-estate record — take a look inside the gorgeous complex

DON'T MISS: Inside one of the oldest and most expensive mansions in Charleston, which is selling for $15 million and was once owned by Abraham Lincoln's granddaughter

Located in Bel-Air, the estate (called Casa Encantada or "House of Enchantment") is nearly 40,000 square feet. According to Los Angeles Magazine, the land was initially bought in 1934 for $100,000 by Hilda Boldt Weber, the widow of a glass manufacturer. Weber then commissioned architect James Dolena to build her the massive estate.

Dolena was considered a "master" of Georgian architecture, taking influence and inspiration from the Art Deco movement as well as Moderne styles, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Source: Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine

The interior was designed by Peterson Studios and TH Robsjon-Gibbions, who created custom furniture and fabrics for the home, the Los Angeles Times reports. It was finished in 1937, costing over $2 million – or about $35 million today.

Source: Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine

Weber was a nurse who married a Midwestern glass bottle manufacturer after nursing him back to health. The death of her husband left her very wealthy, and she spared no expense in building this massive estate.

Source:Washington Post, Curbed LA

Though she always aspired to join high society, historians say she was never truly accepted by her Bel-Air peers and instead spent much of her time gambling away her fortune.

Source:Curbed LA, Los Angeles Times

As time went on, the lavish property she had built became too much for her to handle. Weber eventually died by suicide after offloading the home, according to "Unreal Estate" by Michael Gross, a book about the histories behind the biggest mansions in Los Angeles.

Source:Curbed LA, Los Angeles Times

The Washington Post reports that Weber sold the property in 1949 for $225,000 (or about $2.4 million today) to Conrad Hilton, who, at the time, was still building his now-ubiquitous hotel empire. He owned the home for 30 years, until his 1979 death.

Source: Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine

The Hilton family then sold the property to billionaire Dole Foods CEO and Chairman, David Murdock, for $12.4 million. At the time, the deal was a record for the US market.

Source: Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine

In 2000, Murdock sold the home to financier Gary Winnick for a reported $94 million — another record-breaker. Winnick then commissioned architect Peter Marino to help restore the property. The project took nearly two years (and millions of dollars) to complete.

Winnick is best known as the founder and chairman of Global Crossing, the company which installed fiber-optic highways across the ocean floor, thereby connecting four continents and 27 countries, according to the Times.

Source: Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine, The Real Deal

Though the listing agents will not be publicly releasing interior shots of the home in its current condition, the Los Angeles Times reports that Winnick has restored the estate's classic detailing.

According to the Times, the house has wood-paneled walls in addition to moldings embellished with geometric patterns. The property also features wrought ironwork and terrace balconies.

Source: Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine

The property has a guest house, a pool house, and a managers quarters. There is also a basketball court, a tennis court, greenhouses, a rose garden, and koi ponds.

In addition, the entrance has 18-foot ceilings and a bar made of sterling silver. 

Source: Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine

Per the Los Angeles Times, mountain and ocean views can be seen from nearly all of the the mansion's 60-rooms, some of which include a professional screening room, a reception hall, and grand formal rooms.

Source: Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine

If sold for the current asking price, Casa Encantada will bypass the Spelling manor in Holmby Hills— which recently sold for $119.75 million — to become the highest priced home ever sold in California, according to Fortune Magazine.

Source:Fortune

Read more: Former Spelling mansion sells for nearly $120 million

• Your bed is not only the highlight of your bedroom, it's also the only furniture you spend 33% of your life on.
• The Zinus Upholstered Square Stitched Platform Bed Frame is our top pick because it's well-crafted with impressive strength and an attractive design.

Your bed frame can make or break the overall look and feel of your bedroom. Certain bed frames make the room feel more cozy, while others add a bold and modern style that complements your taste. Your mattress certainly matters in terms of comfort, but from a design aspect, your bed frame is the foundation of your bedroom.

Beyond design, bed frames serve additional purposes. Most elevate, or at least dictate, your sleeping position, ideally making it easier to get in and out of bed. Sometimes they make room for additional storage below your sleeping area or in the headboard. Bed frames also extend the life of your mattress by providing support and preventing weak, sagging spots.

The mattress-on-floor look instantly diminishes any style in your sleeping space and it's not ideal for you or your mattress. Mattresses need support to stay firm and stable, and, just like humans, mattresses, no matter what their make or model, need space to breathe.  

Buying a bed frame may seem simple — just match frame size with mattress size — but there are more buying options than you might realize, which can make the shopping process seem overwhelming. That's why we've compiled this guide to the best bed frames.

Here are the best bed frames you can buy:

• Best overall: Zinus Upholstered Square Stitched Platform Bed Frame 
• Best cheap frame: Zinus 14 Inch SmartBase Platform Bed Frame
• Best sturdy frame: Zinus Sonoma Metal & Wood Platform Bed
• Best high-tech frame: Reverie 9T Adjustable Bed Base
• Best simple frame: Casper foundation and frame
• Best faux leather frame: DHP Dakota Faux Leather Platform Bed
• Best canopy frame: DHP Rosedale Metal Canopy Bed Frame
• Best platform frame: Murray Platform Bed with Wooden Box Frame

Updated on 10/22/2019 by Caitlin Petreycik: Updated prices, links, and formatting. Added related guides. 

SEE ALSO: The best mattress you can buy

The best bed frame overall

The Zinus Upholstered Square Stitched Platform Bed Frame is completely squeakless and it has a classic, timeless look.

The Zinus Upholstered Square Stitched Platform Bed Frame is naturally simple with a classic design that we can't see going out of style anytime soon. The soft square-stitched dark gray upholstery adds a soft-to-the-touch design aesthetic to the already handsome piece. It's an all-around high quality, timelessly designed bed frame.

As a cost saver, the headboard, frame, and ten wood slats that support the mattress are included in the price. You also have the option to purchase a matching footboard for less than $20 extra. The footboard is more of a personal preference that may help your bed look more neat and tidy by allowing you to tuck in all your bedding. All purchased parts, including the frame, legs, and wooden slats conveniently fit into the headframe and are shipped that way as well. Check it out in this reviewer's handy unboxing video review.

It's available in twin, full, queen, and king sizes, and as an added perk, the king size frame stands 14 inches off the ground, providing extra storage space. In other sizes, the frame is 8 inches off the ground.

The Zinus Upholstered Square Stitched Platform Bed Frame is featured on MattressPicks in the article 5 Best Zinus Bed Frame Reviews 2017, where it boasts a 5 out of 5-star rating. On Amazon, the bed frame holds a 4.6-star rating based on more than 3,000 reviews.

Reviewers often comment that the bed frame is worth the money. This reviewer writes, "You can't find a bed like this for under $200 dollars at your local furniture store." Other reviewers like that it's sturdy, easy to set up, and noticeably quiet. Another reviewer remarks, "I actually had a 5.0 earthquake after the first week and rode it out on the bed."

Overall, the Zinus is a bed frame that can blend quietly into the background of a loud bedroom or hold its own as the centerpiece of an otherwise neutral room. The sturdiness and easy setup are two major plusses for this category of products in particular, and the strong mattress support and soft upholstery complement each other, creating an overall high-quality bed frame we can't help but recommend.  

Pros: Very sturdy, helps your mattress last longer, easy assembly, reasonable price, footboard option, adaptable style

Cons: Middle of the bed support may not be the best, shipping issues result in damaged parts a bit too often

The best cheap bed frame

Space is valuable, especially in small apartments, and this Zinus 14-inch SmartBase Platform Bed Frame lets you make the most of it at an affordable price.

If you don't have bedroom space to waste, then a bed frame that provides plenty of under bed storage is the way to go. This Zinus 14-inch SmartBase Platform Bed Frame does just that, as it is raised 14 inches off the ground with 13 inches of clearance, so you can easily store medium to large plastic bins filled with the items you don't need access to daily right under the bed.

It's available in all regular mattress sizes and can be purchased in your choice of a standard bed frame, a bed frame with a skirt, or in a deluxe edition, which has an upgraded design for reinforced stability with t-shape leg construction and a locking system.

The most popular choice is the standard bed frame, which features a strong, durable steel frame and a unique folding design that makes it easy to move around as needed. Unlike some other models, it's easy to assemble. As this reviewer explains, "It comes in 2 separate pieces that are very light once you get them out of the box."

The steel bed frame eliminates the need for a box spring and can support spring, memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses. We like that it's a rather standard 14-inch height, but if you want even more under bed storage, Zinus also has this very similar but not as popular 18-inch bed frame model.

There are no bells and whistles to this bed frame, so you can achieve a super minimalist style, or add a headboard of your choice to jazz it up a bit. It's even pretty basic compared to other bed frames designed to provide under bed storage, and we think that's actually a good thing.

While other so-called storage bed frames often have drawers that can be pulled out from the sides or have a compartment under the bed that you can only access by lifting up your mattress, the Zinus 14-inch SmartBase Platform Bed Frame simply provides free space, so you are not as limited by the size of drawers or under bed compartments.

Amazon reviewers mainly applaud the bed frame for its great value, the fact that it's easy to assemble and disassemble as needed, and how quiet it is. 

Some reviewers do mention that certain mattresses, especially memory foam models, slide off of it easily. One reviewer said she wishes "it came with something to stop the bed from moving off of it." Many reviewers such as this one, don't complain but do recommend buying a bed skirt to hide the under bed storage.

Pros: Tons of under bed storage, easy to assemble and disassemble, frame keeps things quiet, super affordable price point

Cons: Some mattresses may slip, no clear indication of how much weight it can hold

The best sturdy bed frame

The Zinus Sonoma Metal & Wood Platform Bed looks cool with its real wood headboard and sturdy dark metal frame, plus, it's really affordable.

When I moved into my new apartment a year ago, I decided it was time for a new bed frame. Luckily, as the person who edited this guide when it first published, I knew where to look — Amazon. I went to Zinus first because the company makes our top pick in this guide. I looked through the company's many bed frames to find one that suits my style, and I came across the Sonoma.

It combines a dark steel frame with a slatted real wood headboard to create a cool modern look. I love the light, natural wood finish of the three planks that make up the headboard. The wooden boards look great and feel silky smooth to the touch. I was impressed with the quality of the frame's construction.

The dark metal frame is sturdy and inconspicuous. It has supports in the middle, too, so you don't have to worry about a lack of support in the middle of the frame. We have a king-size mattress from Ikea and it fits perfectly on the frame. The wood slats underneath the mattress give great support and amazingly, they don't squeak. 

The only downside is that it's hard to put together because the instructions aren't super clear.

Zinus offers a five-year warranty on this bed frame, too, so if I do have trouble with it down the road, I can contact Zinus. I'm not the only one who loves this bed frame, either. Around 82% of reviewers on Amazon gave it a 5-star rating.

The only complaints center around defective parts and receiving the wrong headboard style. If you do get defective parts, contact Zinus or Amazon immediately for a replacement. Several buyers had a tough time reaching Zinus, but the company has responded to them directly on Amazon. Several buyers had their complaints resolved after contacting Zinus or Amazon. — Malarie Gokey

Pros: Cool design, real wood headboard, strong metal frame, affordable

Cons: Occasional shipping issues reported

The best high-tech bed frame

The Reverie adjustable base is a high-tech sleep machine that will not only meet your comfort needs, but also give you a massage, charge your devices, and more.

When is your bed more than a bed? When it's as capable of multitasking as you are. Once you've slept in a Reverie 9T Adjustable Foundation, it's likely that you'll never leave it again. That's because you can adjust the Reverie to just about any position you'd like.

While I wouldn't recommend turning your bedroom into your home office, the Reverie makes it easy to spend just about all day in one place, but in multiple positions. Trust me, I've (almost) done it.

Thanks to its remote-controlled adjustability, you can elevate your head, feet, or both to an optimal position for sleeping, watching tv, reading, or eliminating snoring. The remote control comes with presets for Flat, Anti-Snore, and Zero Gravity, which involves elevating your legs way up in a position that I find ideal for relaxation. 

You'll also have two other programmable positions that you can set with whatever your unique preferences may be. The frame also features lumbar support, which can be adjusted by degrees to best suit your needs.

When it comes to appearances, the foundation is extremely attractive. It boasts a sleek design, and the gray upholstered foundation goes well with the slighter darker gray wood on the lower half. If you're into minimalist or contemporary decor, this is actually an extremely aesthetically pleasing bed.

One of my favorite aspects of the Reverie is that it features quiet, 3D Wave massage therapy that comes in four waves and an impressive 10 intensities. Most other beds that offer built-in massage only offer two or three waves, and around five intensities. While it's not quite like having an in-house masseuse, it's pretty darn close.

As for the additional tech elements of the bed, the Reverie boasts a unique charging pad that can charge compatible smartphones wirelessly, all while simultaneously charging the accompanying remote via the built-in USB port. You can also program your bed via a companion smartphone app, and as an added bonus, there's an under the bed LED nightlight for your midnight bathroom breaks.

And should anything go wrong with your bed, it does come with a 20-year limited warranty. — Lulu Chang

Pros: Frame can be adjusted to just about any position, great massage capabilities, charge your devices wirelessly or with USB port

Cons: Expensive

The best simple bed frame

The Casper frame and foundation isn't anything fancy, but it does the job and arrives at your doorstep hassle-free.

If you're just looking for a bed frame to get the job done, you need look no further than the Casper foundation and frame combination. In my search for a trusty, easy to receive, and most importantly, easy to set up bed frame, I found just about none better than Casper.

While known best for being the original bed in a box brand, Casper offers much more than just mattresses. Its foundation and frame combination also comes in a box and is compatible not only with Casper's own mattresses but just about anything else you throw on top of it, too.

Made with solid wood, Casper says that it "rigorously tested" its foundation for durability, and thus far, I can say that this is quite apparent. While other foundations I've slept on have seemed a bit saggy, leading to less than comfortable mattresses, the Casper foundation is solid. This is due partly to the fact that Casper carefully spaced out the slats in its foundation. They're all four inches apart, which provides great support and prevents the aforementioned sagging issue. Best of all, the foundation can be assembled and disassembled in just minutes without the use of tools.

While you can use the foundation without the frame, you should probably invest in the affordable metal setup as well. The frame is constructed with 100% recycled steel, and again, provides an additional layer of support beneath your foundation. Like the foundation, it's extremely easy to set up and requires no extra tools. Really, when I received the whole set, I was able to sleep on my newly assembled bed within 15 minutes. The most difficult part was probably dragging the long boxes up the stairs.

Aesthetically, this frame and foundation set are perfectly adequate. Easily dressed up with a nice headboard, the setup won't draw any attention to itself. At the end of the day, if you're looking for a simple bed frame that will come to your doorstep hassle-free, this is the way to go. — Lulu Chang

Pros: Very easy to set up, affordable, sturdy, made with durable materials

Cons: Some customers noted that the frame arrived damaged (though Casper's customer service team will take care of this for you)

The best bed frame with a leather look

No matter what mattress you choose, with this DHP Dakota Faux Leather Tufted Upholstered Platform Bed it will feel like you're laying in luxury.

If your heart is set on a bed frame that has that standout, elegant leather look, but you simply can't justify spending thousands of dollars, this DHP Dakota Faux Leather Tufted Upholstered Platform Bed could be the solution. We love that there are so many purchase options available. You can buy it in twin, full, and queen sizes and in black, brown, or white faux leather.

The "contemporary chic" bed frame comes with a padded faux leather upholstered headboard and side rails, giving it a plush look. Sturdy metal side rails add stability and durability, while the platform bed frame is supported with 24 wooden bed slats to provide more than adequate comfort without the need for a box spring.

The faux leather is easy to clean, and the manufacturer says the bed works well with memory foam mattresses and coil mattresses but doesn't explicitly state other mattresses won't do.

The faux leather is detailed with button tufts and padding that give it a stylish, yet understated design so it can scale up even the plainest of bedrooms.

Amazon reviewers go back and forth about the assembly process, with some saying it's on the easy side — one reviewer says it took about one to two hours — and others claiming it's more difficult, such as this buyer whose review is entitled "not fun to assemble." However, most reviewers are impressed with the look, low price, and support this frame offers.

Pros: Price, design, comes with headboard, easy to clean

Cons: May not be as sturdy as one would like, assembly can be a hassle

The best bed frame with a canopy

The DHP Rosedale Metal Canopy Bed Frame adds a hint of romance and old-fashioned style to your bedroom.

The DHP Rosedale Metal Canopy Bed Frame really lets you add your own unique style to make your entire bed setup, not to mention bedroom, feel extremely personalized and one of a kind. You can drape the canopy with your favorite curtains, upholstery, lights, and much more and change up the design with the seasons, or, because the bed frame is so easy on the eyes, you could simply use it as is.

It's a four-poster canopied bed frame with sleek, yet modern X-shaped square accents in the headboard and footboard. It's crafted out of sturdy metal and has multiple support bars underneath it to hold your mattress in place, yet a box spring is probably a safe add-on to ensure you get the most life out of your mattress.

It's worth noting that in the questions and answers section, one commenter explained that a box spring made the bed squeak when used more "actively," to say it delicately, and as such, the commenter suggested to go without the box spring.

Amazon reviewers across the board say the bed is solid and sturdy, although some do complain that assembly is a hassle, such as this reviewer who uploaded a Snapchat video to her review showcasing the bed setup.

Overall, reviewers mostly say they are impressed with the quality of the product for the price, such as this buyer who also uploaded photos and stated, "it feels super expensive and good quality."

Pros: Sturdy and durable, easy to personalize, you can change up the style quickly and easily

Cons: Assembly can be a drag, you likely need to purchase a box spring as well

The best platform bed frame

The Murray Platform Bed with Wooden Box Frame is perfect if your bedroom can't accommodate a huge, dramatic bed setup.

If you don't need your bed to be such a focal point of the room, this Murray Platform Bed with Wooden Box Frame will do the job of supporting your mattress, while staying out of the way. It's made out of solid environmentally-friendly plantation hardwood and is completed with a 7-step finish in either mahogany or black.

The minimalist design allows it to blend in easily with a variety of room styles and the wooden frame gives it a warm and homey feeling. It's intended to be used without a headboard, giving you a clean, uncluttered look.

The bed frame has side rails, cross slats, and a center rail that work together to provide full-body support for you and your mattress. It's an ideal choice if you have certain room accents that limit what type of bed setup you can fit, such as rooms with low windows that may be blocked by a higher bed frame, or for those who just prefer to be closer to the ground, where the air is cooler.

Also note that the assembled height of the frame is only 11 inches, so if you have a thin mattress, it may fall deeper into the bed than you expect, which is what happened to this reviewer. For thicker mattresses, the depth with be a non-issue. You don't need a box spring, either.

For the most part, Amazon reviewers comment that the bed frame is supportive and sturdy. Some reviewers warn that the legs easily break off, but the majority say this bed frame has lasted a while and they are pleased with their purchase.

Pros: Accommodates oddly designed rooms, solid price point, easy to assemble

Cons: Works best with a thicker mattress, may not support as much weight as other models, legs may not be super durable

How to pick the right bed frame

How to pick the right bed frame

• Size matters: First get the sizing right. You want a bed frame that blends into the room naturally, not one that overwhelms the room by taking up too much space. Also, note that bed frame sizes are not completely standardized. They can differ depending on the country they are made in or by the manufacturer, either of which may have their own standards and use their own terminology for sizing.
• Get a good mattress: Once you have an idea of how much space you have to work with, get the mattress size correct. Your mattress can be as large as your room allows, but the main goal is that it can hold your body comfortably, without any limbs hanging off the sides. You don't want one that makes you feel like Will Ferrell in the movie Elf. If you're buying a mattress for two people, you should both be able to lie down, side by side, and have your arms behind your head with your elbows out, without touching each other.  From there, you can match the mattress size to the bed frame size. Check out the best mattresses you can buy here.
• Check the pricing: Bed frame pricing is all over the place. Pricing is usually dependent upon the material of the frame, with leather-covered and wooden frames being the most expensive and metal frames the least.
• Figure out what style you want: Because your bed setup is the highlight of the room, the design of your bed frame certainly plays a role in your choice. It's up to your personal preferences, other design elements in the room, and the available space you have to work with. 

Bed frame types

There are various types of bed frames available, but one trick to narrow down your options is to decide if you want a platform or box spring bed. With many platform bed frames, you won't need a box spring. For more firmness, opt for a platform bed without a box spring, which will provide a harder and more supportive foundation. Here are the different types of bed frames:

• Platform bed frames without a box spring are usually lower to the ground, which may make them harder to get in and out of, especially if you experience back pain or other complications. On the plus side, because platform bed frames are lower, they provide a cooler sleep environment. Also, cutting the box spring out of your total bed buying costs will make your bed much cheaper.
• Box spring bed frames will lift your mattress higher off the ground, making your bed easier to get in and out of. Box springs usually do help extend the life of your mattress by preventing sagging. Box spring bed frames are the go-to pick for the traditionalist, but the box spring itself will not last forever. Over time, box springs lose support and do not provide as many mattress-saving benefits. To get the most out of a box spring, simply turn it frequently, so the heaviest weight is not constantly placed in the same area.
• Headboards andfootboards are sometimes included with the bed frame for added style. These can be made out of metal or wood, and they're sometimes covered in fabric or leather. 
• Specialty bed frames come in a few different forms, including sleigh beds, four-poster beds, canopy beds, daybeds, and so on. These bed frames add more style and drama to your bedroom.

Wood, upholstered, and metal bed frames

If durability is a top priority, then a metal frame is your best bet. With good care, metal bed frames will look nearly new for years and don't get as much damage from bugs, cracks, and so forth as wooden bed frames. However, wooden bed frames are still considered highly durable and are usually a good value for the cost. They're pretty low maintenance and may even be easier to care for than metal frames, which can fall victim to rust.  

With wooden frames, you have the option of hardwood or softwood, which, by the way, have nothing to do with the actual 'hardness' or 'softness' of the wood. You can also find bed frames that are covered in fabric, genuine leather, or faux leather for added style.

Check out our great bedding guides

The best sheets 

Few would deny that at the end of a long, hard day, sliding into a comfortable bed outfitted with soft, smooth sheets that pamper your skin is one of life's greatest pleasures. After reviewing dozens of contenders, these are our top picks for the best bed sheets you can buy: 

• Best sheets overall: L.L. Bean 280-thread-count Pima Cotton Percale Sheets 
• Best sateen cotton sheets: Brooklinen Luxe Sheets
• Best linen sheets: MagicLinen
• Best Supima sheets: Casper Cool Supima
• Best sheets with patterns and colors: Crane & Canopy Sheet Sets
• Best flannel sheets: Pinzon Velvet Flannel Sheets
• Best organic cotton sheets: Boll & Branch Signature Soft Hemmed Sheet Set
• Best modal sheets: Pure Beech Modal Sateen Sheets
• Best microfiber sheets: Brooklyn Bedding Microfiber Sheets
• Best budget sheets: Room Essentials Jersey Sheet Set

The best pillows

A good pillow means a good night's sleep. We reviewed dozens of pillows to narrow down the choices to the ones you'll love best. Here are the best pillows you can buy: 

• Best budget pillow: Le'vista Hotel Collection Pillow
• Best down pillow: Royal Hotel Goose Down Pillow
• Best buckwheat hull pillow: Zen Chi Buckwheat Hull Pillow
• Best memory foam pillow: Sleep Innovations Cool Contour Memory Foam Pillow
• Best bolster pillow: Half-Moon Bolster Pillow
• Best gel pillow: Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow
• Best body pillow: Snuggle-Pedic Ultra-Luxury Full Body Pillow

The best duvet covers 

Cozy and comfortable, stylish and versatile, and available in a huge range of fashionable colors, designs, and fabrics, there's a duvet cover for every taste. Sometimes, however, too much choice makes it nearly impossible to make a decision. That's where we step in. Here are the best duvet covers you can buy: 

• Best duvet cover overall: Brooklinen Classic Duvet Cover
• Best affordable duvet cover: HC Collection Duvet Cover Set
• Best zip-up duvet cover: Crane & Canopy's Nova Duvet Cover
• Best high-quality duvet cover: Casper Cool Supima

• With the right stroller, you and your young one are ready for anything, from a quick trip to the store to a week-long overseas vacation.
• Depending on your family's activities, you may need two strollers per child.
• The Nuna DEMI Grow is our top choice because it is highly adaptable, is nimble and rugged, and folds down small for a full-sized stroller.

I have two kids (ages 5 1/2 and 1 1/2, at time of publication), and with them, I switch between six or seven different strollers and tested even more than that since my kids were born. So, through my research and hands-on testing, I've gained a lot of insight and experience into buying strollers.

But my stroller research started way before the first kid arrived. While expecting our first child, my wife and I did exhaustive stroller research and consulting other parents and experts. Not only can strollers be expensive, but you also want to ensure they keep their little passengers safe.

In addition, we also went to stores and tested multiple strollers before selecting one. Or, to be accurate, before selecting two: You will find that having two strollers for one child is almost a necessity. And with two kids, you may end up with four or more. 

Here's why you may want multiple strollers: I recommend getting one larger, rugged stroller for daily walks around the neighborhood, and one smaller, compact stroller for when you need to travel light (flying to Europe or taking the train to New York City) or easily fit into the trunk of a car. 

As for longevity, it depends on how often you use it and what type of situations you put it through. A gently used stroller could be reused or passed on, while one that's been through the roughest environments may not make it past the five-year mark. Whatever your needs or use-cases may be, here are the best strollers to consider. And, after our recommendations, we provide more info on how to buy a stroller.

Here are our top picks for the best stroller you can buy in 2019:

• Best stroller overall: Nuna DEMI Grow Stroller
• Best stroller for multi-kid families: UPPAbaby Vista
• Best affordable stroller: Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller
• Best rugged umbrella stroller: Ergobaby Metro
• Best jogging stroller: Chicco Tre

Updated on 10/22/2019 by Lisa Sabatini: Updated links and prices.

SEE ALSO: The best umbrella strollers you can buy

The best stroller overall

The Nuna DEMI Grow Stroller is lightweight yet sturdy, it folds down with ease, and can accommodate two kids at once.

When my wife and I had our first kid (he's now five-and-a-half), we bought two products: one of the safest car seats we could find and we bought one of the best strollers we could find. And both were great, more or less. The car seat was soft and supportive for our son, and it gave us peace of mind. But it was savagely heavy. The stroller was responsive and rugged and had great storage space underneath, but it was big and bulky even when collapsed. Worst of all? The car seat and stroller weren't compatible, so every time we needed to transition our baby from car to stroller or vice-versa, we had to unbuckle him, scoop him up, and strap him back in, which basically guaranteed hysterical crying. 

So when our daughter came along, we went with a different approach. We have been thrilled with the Nuna DEMI Grow Stroller, which we have been using since she was born  (she's now more than 16 months old). The stroller is agile and light, turning on a dime even with one hand on the handlebar, yet it rolls over bumps and rough road easily, absorbing much of the shaking. The storage basket below is ample enough for a moderate grocery shopping and the hood provides plenty of sun coverage for our daughter. 

But there are two main reasons why the DEMI Grow is a game-changer. First, it works with the Nuna PIPA Lite car seat, so we never had to rouse a sleeping baby to switch from car to stroller. Second, the DEMI Grow is so lightweight that my wife can easily lift it into the trunk of an SUV, and it folds down small enough to fit in a slender coat closet at home. 

Along with the car seat configuration, the DEMI Grow can also accommodate an infant seat or a toddler seat, and it can even be used with two children at the same time in an over/under configuration. We've never tried that arrangement because we have a different stroller for our older kid.

The Little Baby Gear blog called the DEMI Grow "simple and functional." It found the stroller easy to fold up or deploy, and that it has a dozen "seating configuration options."

Pros: Lightweight and nimble, multiple configuration options, quick and easy compact folding

Cons: Pricey option, especially with added options

The best low-cost stroller

The Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller is lightweight, easy to steer, and keeps kids secure with a five-point safety harness, for a super affordable price.

You could be forgiven for finding the sub-one-hundred price tag of the Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller a bit unnerving. Could something that inexpensive actually be safe enough to transport your priceless child? Based on feedback from reviewers and thousands of customers, the answer is yes. Also, there are legally mandated safety standards that strollers must adhere to, of course.

This umbrella stroller manages to be very affordable but reasonably well-made, and quite comfortable for younger children thanks to its reclining seat, padding, and sunshade. It also manages to fold down nearly flat and to weigh in at around 13 pounds, making the stroller compact and light enough for any able-bodied adult to lift with ease.

If you need to carry your stroller onto the subway or tuck it into the trunk of a car regularly, then this small, light stroller is a great choice. If you need a stroller that can handle rougher terrain, like grass, dirt, gravel, and so forth, then this one is the absolute wrong choice, though. Its wheels are small and the tires are narrow, easily bogging down on uneven ground. That said, this is a city stroller first and foremost, and thanks not only to its minute weight and folded size, but also thanks to its large storage basket.

With more than 3,400 reviews, the Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller has a 4.4-star rating on Amazon. The Bump called it "super light and easy to fold" but did note that it can tip if you hang a heavy bag on the handles. The reviewer for FirstTimeParentGuide.com noted the "decent storage underneath" and the "durable aluminum frame."

Pros: Great low price point, lightweight and compact, good storage underneath

Cons: Wheels too small for rough terrain, kids outgrow it quickly

The best stroller for multi-kid families

The UPPAbaby Vista stroller converts in multiple ways and can be used with a newborn, infant, or toddler. It can even transport three kids at once with various attachments.

Navigating through life with multiple kids is no easy feat, so give yourself every advantage possible and at least make navigating the sidewalk, hardware store, or museum that much easier with an UPPAbaby Vista stroller. This thing was designed with multiple kids in mind, and with the right attachments, it can handle three children at once: two in seats, and one perched on an added kickboard.

Unlike many strollers that can tote two kids in an over/under configuration, the Vista is suitable for use with twins, as it can simultaneously support two bassinets, two car seats, or two regular stroller seats. And as for all the gear you'll need to bring along to help you care for those kids, the storage basket can support up to 30 pounds.

This is a full-sized stroller and with two seats in place, it weighs upwards of 50 pounds, so it's likely too heavy if you live on a third-floor walk-up or you have any strength issues. But that weight translates to a smooth, steady ride and a capability to support kids well into preschool age. This stroller could last your family through several kids, so you'd get more than your money's worth. Which is good, because it's the most expensive strollers on the list.

One notable complaint among Amazon shoppers has to do with the Vista's weight and its lack of a good handle for carrying it when it's not in use; don't overlook how frustrating it can be to handle a heavy stroller as you try to get it in the trunk, into the house, or checked with an airline.

Pros: Broadly adaptable, suitable for three kids of varied ages, large storage basket

Cons: Expensive, heavy and hard to carry when folded

The best rugged lightweight stroller

The Ergobaby Metro stroller pops open with one hand in two seconds and folds down just as easily, and at just 14 pounds it's easy to carry.

Earlier this summer, we put our Ergobaby Metro to the ultimate test: overseas travel. For an entire week, this compact, lightweight stroller was our only stroller. We used it to push our toddler along sidewalks, cobblestone streets, and even a few short hiking paths (we had a baby backpack for the long hauls) in the French Alps. The stroller performed amazingly well for a piece of hardware compact enough to fit in a backpack when not in use, not to mention the fact that it easily fit in the overhead bin on our flights, too.

The Metro is expensive, but for families who mostly stick to paved surfaces, the Metro could serve as their only stroller. And it's a great choice for use in a smaller home where free space is at a premium. It has a decent storage area under the seat, perfect for bringing along diapers and wipes and such, or for holding picnic provisions or a few grocery items. The seat has an adjustable footrest and is rated to support most kids from infancy through their fourth birthday.

While the Metro lacks an adjustable handle like many compact folding umbrella strollers (making it a bit awkward for taller parents like me to steer), it handles deftly and deals with bumps and cracks in the walkway better than many similar-sized strollers I've tested. The Metro also has a feature most umbrella strollers lack: an adjustable, reclining seat that makes on-the-go naps much more successful. (I pushed my sleeping toddler around Paris for more than an hour in this stroller, complete with carrying her up and down stairs and on and off the subway, a testament to its comfort and light weight.)

One Amazon customer said she loved "the maneuverability," explaining that it "can literally turn 360 degrees with a single finger." Another appreciated how it "folds easily and is not a hassle to carry around." But one common complaint was about the footrest, which adjusts to multiple angles but can be annoying to operate.

Pros: Lightweight and compact, extra fast folding and deployment, adjustable reclining seat

Cons: Frustrating footrest mechanism

The best jogging stroller

The Chicco TRE Jogging Stroller has multiple features designed for maximum safety and comfort, both for the baby on board and the mom or dad jogging along behind it.

The Chicco TRE Jogging Stroller was clearly designed by people who have some pretty extensive experience with strollers. Instead of a foot-operated brake, the parking brake for the TRE is on the handlebar, so there's no risk of you accidentally stepping on the brake mid-stride, which is good because a sudden lock-up could well send you right over the top of the stroller.

The handlebar brake is also pressure-sensitive, which works like the brakes on a bike, allowing you to regulate speed or to ease down to a stop. Also close at hand is a front-wheel swivel lock that stops the front wheel from turning, helping you enjoy a faster, smoother ride on straightaways. The adjustable handlebar also has a safety strap you loop over your wrist, ensuring the stroller won't roll away.

The large seat can comfortably accommodate a child as heavy as 55 pounds, while even infants can use the stroller with a car seat adapter added. Adjustable suspension allows for a steady ride while running on good terrain or a softer ride over bumpy conditions. And when not in use, the TRE folds down small enough to fit in just about any trunk.

Storkified blog loved how the Chicco TRE was comfortable for the kid thanks to "pneumatic wheels … that soften the ride" and the "adjustable FlexCore suspension attached to each rear wheel."

Pros: Multiple safety features, adjustable suspension, water-resistant materials

Cons: Only works with Chicco KeyFit car seats

How to choose a stroller

As for choosing the right stroller(s), start with the basics. How large is your child? For how long will she need extra support and padding around her head and neck? Should be lying flat in a bassinet? Can she feed herself from a tray yet? And so forth. Start by thinking about your child's size, needs, and abilities, in other words.

Next, consider the types of activities you see yourself and your child sharing. If you're an avid runner, then a jogging stroller is a great idea. If you're always on and off trains or subways, then an extra lightweight and compact folding stroller is a necessity. If you plan to bring your child with you on all your errands, look for extra storage capacity beneath the stroller. And if you'll be in and out of your car all the time, make sure your stroller and car seats are compatible.

Finally, try to see the fact that you probably need two strollers as an opportunity, not a burden — though it is an opportunity requiring more outlay of cash. While an umbrella stroller is great for afternoons in the city, it's useless for jogging on a path. Likewise, a jogging stroller is ideal for a morning trot through the suburbs, but a poor choice for navigating the narrow aisles of a store or for carrying onto the subway. If storage space or budget constrains you to one stroller, then just make sure you find one that's adaptable.

For the record, you're not going to see any tandem/double strollers listed here. That's not because I don't like double strollers or because lots of great ones exist, but is simply because many brands that make a fine single stroller also offer double/tandem units. If you're partial to a brand or sold by some of the points here, check out their multi-kid options.

Check out our other great baby gear guides

The best umbrella strollers you can buy

Umbrella strollers are lightweight and easy to fold up, making them ideal for travel or when space is tight. Here are the best ones you can buy:

• Best umbrella stroller overall: Maclaren Triumph Stroller
• Best budget umbrella stroller: Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience Stroller
• Best travel umbrella stroller: GB Pockit Lightweight Stroller
• Best umbrella stroller for multiple babies: Delta Children LX Side by Side Tandem Umbrella Stroller
• Best splurge umbrella stroller: BabyZen YoYo Stroller

The best organic and eco-friendly disposable diapers you can buy

Disposable diapers don't have to be harmful to your baby's skin or damaging to the environment. Organic and eco-friendly diapers offer convenience while keeping your baby healthy and being less harmful to the planet. These are the best organic and eco-friendly disposable diapers you can buy:

• Best eco-friendly diapers overall: Naty
• Best supersoft eco-friendly diapers: Bambo Nature
• Best eco-friendly diapers for bundling: Honest Co.
• Best eco-friendly diapers for giving back: Andy Pandy
• Best budget-conscious eco-friendly diapers: Thrive Market Baby Diapers

The best changing pads you can buy

As you probably guessed, a changing pad is a handy product for changing your baby's diaper. But it can also keep your baby safe and prevent them from accidentally rolling over. These are the best changing pads you can buy:

• The best changing pad overall: Summer Infant Contour Changing Pad
• The best portable changing pad: Skip Hop Pronto Signature Portable Changing Pad
• The best 4-sided changing pad: LA Baby Waterproof 4-Sided Cocoon Style Changing Pad
• The best organic changing pad: Naturepedic 4-Sided Contoured Changing Pad With Organic Cotton
• The best easy-to-clean changing pad: Keekaroo Peanut Changer

The best breast pumps you can buy

If you're a nursing mom who plans to spend more than a couple hours away from your baby, pumping is a necessary evil: It keeps your milk supply up and ensures your kiddo has enough to eat. The Medela Pump In Style Advanced is a great option for moms who want to get their pumping done quickly and easily. Plus, we have four additional recommendations:

• Best breast pump overall: Medela Pump In Style Advanced
• Best closed-system breast pump: Spectra Baby USA S1
• Best breast pump for multitaskers: Freemie Freedom
• Best breast pump for travel: Yunbaby Portable Breast Pump
• Best manual breast pump: Philips Avent Manual Comfort Breast Pump

The best car seats

Car seats are one of the most critical pieces of gear parents with young kids need, but they're also one of the most overwhelming items to buy. We've cut through the confusion to find the best ones for kids of all ages:

• Best infant car seat: Chicco KeyFit 30
• Best budget infant car seat: Graco SnugRide Click Connect 30
• Best lightweight infant car seat: Nuna PIPA Lite LX
• Best convertible car seat: Chicco NextFit Zip
• Best budget convertible car seat: Evenflo Triumph LX
• Best harness to booster seat: Britax Frontier ClickTight
• Best budget harness to booster seat: Evenflo Maestro
• Best booster seat: Graco Affix Booster Seat
• Best budget booster seat: Harmony Youth Booster

• Shower time should be relaxing, and your choice of shower head plays a huge role in making your shower more soothing.
• Some people love a rain-style shower, while others want a strong, pulsing jet to massage sore muscles.
• That's why the Moen S6320 Two-Function Rain Shower Head is the best you can buy. It can switch between both types of shower styles, depending on your mood.

The rush of prepping for work or school can almost make you feel relieved to jump in a car and sit in rush-hour traffic, listening to two DJs tell bad jokes and play weird sound effects. But before fighting through the commute, it's time for rushing around, looking for the right outfit, figuring out which overnight emails you were expected to answer before 4 a.m., and wrestling with which flavor packet to plug into the coffee maker. There is one time when you can actually relax – in the shower.

Sure, you might have to shorten your shower after you hit the snooze alarm three times, but the shower stall is still your sanctuary where no one can bother you, even if it's only for a few minutes.

To ensure that your shower is as relaxing as it can be, you will need to make some choices about the kind of shower head you want to use. You might be surprised at how many shower head options are available.

Modern shower heads work differently than older shower heads, so there are quite a few advantages to purchasing a new shower head. An older shower head's interior often was a cavity that filled with water, forcing the water through the tiny nozzles, meaning the individual nozzles had very little water pressure. A newer shower head has individual channels that feel the nozzles, increasing the ability to deliver water pressure.

With all of the different options and features in shower heads, you can pick exactly the type of shower you'd like to have, including rain-style, pulsing jets, or steady spray. 

• Full body: Full body shower installations include nozzles throughout the vertical length of the shower stall, rather than just one nozzle at the top of the stall. Although these are really nice designs for a shower, they're a bit beyond the scope of this list because of the special installation and high expense required.
• Handheld: Some shower heads fit inside a clamp near the upper pipe, but then disconnect so they can be held in your hand at the end of a flexible hose, allowing you to direct the water spray for more efficient cleaning, as Kitchen Bath Guides explains.
• High pressure: Some shower heads include high-pressure jets. By turning a ring, these shower heads often provide different spray patterns as well as massage settings.
• Rainfall: Some showers offer big shower heads that release a lot of water, almost like rainfall. They usually don't offer the water pressure or pulsing options of other shower head designs.
• Specialty: Newer shower heads have some interesting specialty features. Some include a built-in wireless speaker inside the shower head, allowing you to sync your smartphone to the speaker to play music or audio. Some include LED lighting that makes it fun to shower.

Finally, Consumer Reports says you must pay attention to the type of installation required for the shower head you pick. Some shower heads will simply screw onto the water pipe that sticks out of the bathroom wall, which most people can handle themselves. Other shower heads require you to tear up drywall to install some components. Understand that you may need to hire a plumber to complete the job, so think about this added cost when purchasing a shower head.

Here are the best shower heads you can buy in 2019:

• Best overall: Moen Two-Function Rain Shower Head 
• Best rain shower head: WaterPoint 8-inch Rain Shower Head
• Best high-pressure shower head: Speakman Signature High Pressure Shower Head
• Best low-flow shower head: High Sierra Low Flow Shower Head
• Best handheld showerhead: ShowerMaxx Detachable Handheld Shower Head
• Best budget shower head: Delta Single Function Shower Head
• Best LED shower head: DreamSpa Color Changing LED Shower Head
• Best combination shower head: Hydroluxe 24 Function  3-way 2 in 1 Combo Shower Head

Updated on 10/22/2019 by Caitlin Petreycik: Updated prices, links, and formatting.

SEE ALSO: The best shower curtains you can buy

The best shower head overall

Unlike most rain-style shower heads, the Moen S6320 Velocity Two-Function Rain 8-inch Shower Head also offers a surprisingly powerful jet spray.

Most rain-style shower heads don't offer any other type of water delivery. However, the Moen S6320 Velocity Two-Function Rain 8-inch Shower Head is able to deliver both rain and jet spray styles in one shower head.

The shower head is a great size, and the Moen S6320 also offers immersion technology, which allows for a concentrated jet spray.

A Great Shower says the rain-style shower is amazing and highlights how the shower head uses 100 nozzles to create its signature effect. However, the advantage of this shower head is that it can also act as a high-pressure jet spray when you want to switch things up. 

Of course, it is an expensive shower head, costing more than $100 on Amazon. However, when you take into account that it originally cost $252.90 when Moen introduced this model, it's a substantial discount. It also has a lifetime warranty.

Pros: Versatile shower head, 100 nozzles for rain-style shower, jet-style setting provides surprising water pressure level, four finishes available

Cons: Longevity is questionable, price is high

The best budget shower head

The Delta 75152 Single Function Shower Head's extremely low price point and good water flow make it a good choice for those on a tight budget.

There's nothing that particularly stands out about the Delta 75152 Single Function Shower Head, but it does provide a good all-around performance level at a really low price point. According to the Green Energy Helps review, the Delta 75152 can deliver water flow of between 1.85 GPM and 2.5 GPM, which is a good level for most people.

The Beyond Shower review says the 75152 shower head is easy to install. One Amazon customer was disappointed in the all-plastic design of the Delta shower head, which ended up causing some leaks immediately after installation, but it seems to be a rare occurrence.

Pros: Extremely low price, good water flow level, extremely easy to install, two jet spray settings, two water flow settings, includes H2Okinetic water droplet technology

Cons: All-plastic construction materials affect longevity, some customers reported immediate leaks

The best rain-style shower head

The low-priced WaterPoint 8-inch Rain Shower Head delivers an impressive amount of water pressure and water volume for a rain shower.

If you've hesitated to purchase a rain-style shower head in the past because of concerns over high water usage, the WaterPoint 8-inch Rain Shower Head contains a flow restrictor that limits the shower head to 2.5 gallons of water per minute. You can remove the restrictor if you'd like more water flow. Depending on how you use the shower, removing the flow restrictor may actually help you spend less time in the shower.

Of the customers who left reviews on Amazon, 90% are largely satisfied by their purchase (4 and 5 stars), giving the shower head a 4.5-star rating. Perhaps the best thing about the WaterPoint Shower Head is its low price, which makes it another great budget option.

Pros: Delivers a large volume of water, very low price, good water pressure for rain-style shower head, large 8-inch diameter, restrictor inside cuts water usage to 2.5 gallons per minute

Cons: Air intake yields noisy shower head, some plastic in construction

The best high-pressure shower head

If you prefer a massaging jet of water during your showers, the Speakman S-2252 Signature Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head is a great option.

If you're someone who doesn't like gentle rain-style shower heads, the Speakman S-2252 Signature Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head will be more your style. And, if you've stayed at hotels, you've most likely encountered a similar Speakman shower head already.

This high-pressure shower head delivers either 2 or 2.5 gallons of water per minute, using six adjustable jets that produce 48 individual sprays. Even those with low water pressure at home will receive high-quality results with the Speakman Anystream model. It delivers just the right amount of pressure – enough to massage some tired shoulder and back muscles.

The Shower Remedy's review says the self-cleaning nozzles in the Speakman shower head are a great feature. Best Shower Heads highlighted the S-2252's longevity, thanks to its brass construction.

On Amazon, one buyer liked the water pressure the Speakman S-2252 delivered and said it's easy to remove the water restrictor from the shower head for even greater water flow. However, another Amazon customer didn't like that the shower head has no jets in the center, which left a cold spot in the jet spray.

Pros: High-pressure jet spray even in households with low water pressure, adjustable jet sprays, self-cleaning nozzles, six finishes available, both 2.5 and 2 gallons per minute water flow shower heads available

Cons: Higher-than-average price, no center jet

The best high-efficiency shower head

If you're truly interested in cutting your water usage, the High Sierra All Metal Low Flow Shower Head is a great choice, limiting water flow to 1.5 GPM.

Most shower heads offer a water flow setting of 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). Some even conserve more water, reducing the flow to 2 GPM. But if you're truly serious about saving water — and saving money on your water and water heating bills in the process — the High Sierra All Metal Low Flow Shower Head is the answer. This High Sierra shower head reduces water use to an impressive 1.5 GPM.

Tririg's reviewer found the High Sierra delivers just the right amount of water pressure. One Amazon customer agreed, saying the difference between the spray generated by an older 2.5 GPM shower head and the High Sierra 1.5 GMP shower head was not noticeable, despite the lower flow.

The Shower Champ highlighted the construction, which is primarily metal as well as a high-quality plastic in the spray restrictor area, to ensure longevity.

However, low-flow shower heads aren't for everyone. If you like a luxurious shower experience, you won't want a low-flow model like this one.

Pros: Delivers good water pressure, saves money on your water bill, four colors available, great price point, primarily metal construction

Cons: Smaller water stream, extremely small shower head nozzle area

The best handheld shower head

If you need some flexibility in your shower head, the 6.5-foot stainless steel hose on the ShowerMaxx 6-Spray Detachable Handheld Shower Head delivers.

The ShowerMaxx 6-Spray Detachable Handheld Shower Head can double as both a fixed shower head and a handheld one that you can use to direct water where you need it most.

As an added benefit, the ShowerMaxx handheld shower head offers six different spray settings along with a 4.92-foot stainless steel hose that stretches to more than 6.5 feet, which is great if you have pets that need to be bathed frequently. It also has a 4.5-inch diameter shower head to offer plenty of water coverage with a 2.5 GPM water flow. You can remove the water restrictor ring for more water flow, too (at the risk of higher water bills).

However, one Amazon customer was disappointed with the mostly plastic materials in the ShowerMaxx head's construction.

Pros: Good price point, hose stretches to more than 6.5 feet, plenty of water coverage for most people, easy-to-use handheld unit for bathing pets and children

Cons: Mostly plastic construction, difficult to install

The best LED shower head

The DreamSpa AquaFan 12-inch LED Shower Head has an LED light that changes color to indicate the temperature range of the water.

The DreamSpa AquaFan 12-Inch LED Shower Head isn't just for emitting mood lighting. The LED light provides a smart purpose: helping you see exactly what the water temperature is before you step into the shower stall. No longer do you have to suffer through stepping into an icy stream or hot lava flow of shower water!

The LED light is blue when the water temperature is below 95 degrees, green when it's below 109 degrees, red when it's below 122 degrees, and flashing red when the water is above 122 degrees.

There's also a tiny screen that displays the exact water temperature. No batteries are needed to run the LED, as it runs completely from water pressure and should last about 100,000 hours.

However, a few Amazon reviewers mentioned that the DreamSpa AquaFan shower head emits a whining noise when in operation, so be warned.

Pros: Lights indicate water temperature, 12-inch shower head provides rain-style water flow, good water flow, no batteries required

Cons: Shower head emits a whining noise, price is a little above average

The best combination shower head

You don't have to choose between a mounted and handheld shower head when you have the 3-way 2-in-1 combo from Hydroluxe.

While there are plenty of convertible shower heads that combine the ease of a mounted shower head with the flexibility of a handheld unit, there aren't quite as many options that actually offer you both at the same time. But the Hydroluxe Full-Chrome 24 Function Ultra-Luxury 3-way 2 in 1 Combo does just that.

A top seller on Amazon, this shower head allows you to choose from a total of 24 full and combined water flow patterns, turning your daily shower into a veritable choose your own adventure.

On the main shower head, you'll find a little knob that will allow you to direct water to one or the other head, or if you're ready to get pampered, to both. Of course, you can continue to adjust the knob throughout your shower, offering yourself different water and setting combinations.

The heads each come with five settings, which include Power Rain, Massage, Stay-Warm Mist, and Water-Saving Economy Rain, as well as a Pause function. And thanks to this shower unit's large four-inch face, you'll be getting powerful jets of water throughout your shower — and better still, from two heads.

Perhaps my favorite thing about this particular Hydroluxe offering is how easy it is to install. While some other shower heads purport to be DIY but are, in fact, meant only for expert installation, I found that the Hydroluxe lived up to its easy installation promise.

Indeed, that seems to be a common opinion on Amazon, where most reviewers noted that they were able to install the shower head in less than five minutes. And thanks to the included tape, you won't have to worry about leaks or other drippage.

Despite the relatively low price of this shower head, the water pressure is still quite decent, particularly if you take the step of removing the flow control device. If you do elect to have water coming out of both heads simultaneously, you may experience a drop in pressure, though this is to be expected. — Lulu Chang

Pros: Easy installation, great value for the price, two-for-one design makes for a luxurious shower

Cons: Plastic construction

Check out our other guides for bathroom decor

The best shower curtain hooks you can buy

Shower curtain hooks are pretty basic, but subtle differences between them make certain hooks stand out above the rest.

Shower curtain hooks come in several varieties, but most are made of stainless steel or plastic. Some are classic circular rings and others are more elaborate hooks that let the curtain drop down farther from the rod. Here are the best shower curtain hooks you can buy:

• Best shower curtain hooks overall: Maytex Metal Double Roller Glide Shower Curtain Ring
• Best rolling shower curtain hooks: Amazer Rust-Resistant Stainless Steel Shower Curtain Rings
• Best decorative shower curtain hooks: InterDesign Axis Shower Curtain Hooks with Ball Detail
• Best wide shower curtain hooks: Amazer Wide Shower Curtain Hooks

The best bath mats you can buy

Bath mats soak up any water from your wet feet, ensuring you don't slip when you leave the shower or tub.

We searched the web for user reviews and top-ranked selections in the bath mat category to bring you this Insider Picks guide to finding the perfect bath mat. Here are the best bath mats you can buy: 

• Best bath mat overall: West Elm Luxe Fibersoft Bath Mat
• Best microfiber bath mat: Vdomus Non-slip Microfiber Shag Bathroom Mat
• Best memory foam bath mat: Magnificent Large Non-Slip Memory Foam Bath Mat
• Best affordable cotton bath mat: Luxury Cotton Hotel-Spa Tub-Shower Bath Mat Set
• Best bamboo bath mat: InterDesign Bamboo Floor Mat

The best bath towels you can buy

You step out of the shower, and happily reach for your favorite scratchy, thin, unabsorbent, and too-small bath towel: NOT. No one wants to end their clean routine on an unhappy note like that. It's a pleasure to dry off with a thick, thirsty, soft, and big-enough-to-cover-everywhere-that-counts bath towel.

That's why we've hunted down the best bath towels for your drying pleasure. Whether you like them overly large, made of organic cotton, in a waffle-weave, or just thick, soft, and luxurious; we've got your new favorite bath towel in our guide. Here are the best towels you can buy:

• Best towel overall: Fieldcrest Spa Towel
• Best big towel: Utopia Bath Sheet
• Best lightweight towel: Crane & Canopy Fouta Towel
• Best waffle weave towel: Waffle Towel from Parachute
• Best organic cotton towel: Organic Bath Towel from Boll & Branch
• Best colorful towels: Wamsutta's Hygro Duet Bath Towels
• Best textured towel with a fun pattern: West Elm's Dashed Lines Sculpted Towels

• High-quality dinnerware sets are resistant to scratching and chipping, can go in the dishwasher and microwave, and are appealing to the eye.
• The Gibson Home Casa Stella Dinnerware Set is our top pick because it's cost-effective, durable, and there are several attractive styles and designs to choose from.

The right dinnerware set has a profound impact on how you enjoy a meal. If the plates are mixed and matched across place settings, the food may seem similarly disjointed. However, a sophisticated, uniform table setting suggests an attention to detail that diners will also recognize in the dishes you serve. Consequently, a top-quality dinnerware set is a must for any home chef who takes pride in entertaining guests or preparing delicious meals for their family.

The main considerations when shopping for dinnerware are durability and aesthetic appeal. Bone china, porcelain, and china are the most popular materials. Named after the country where porcelain making originated, china is an all-encompassing term for vitreous ceramic dinnerware. China is brittle, glassy, and does not absorb water well. Porcelain is a subset of china made from quartz, feldspar, and clay and heated in a kiln. Bone china gets its name from the calcified bone included in its composition. This makes it lightweight and surprisingly strong. It's also usually more expensive.

As far as appearances go, beautiful designs may seem like an attractive alternative. But, you should remember that you will likely use your dinnerware for decades to come. Designs that seem hip today may appear dated in 10 years. Therefore, consider all-white dinnerware or styles that have been popular for generations.

While researching the best dinnerware, we poured through hundreds of expert and buyer reviews and ratings of countless sets. Our guide features sets that have a history of durability, are excellent for everyday use, and have a timeless look.

Here are the best dinnerware sets you can buy:

• Best dinnerware set overall: Gibson Home Casa Stella Dinnerware Set
• Best all-white dinnerware set: Nevaeh White by Fitz and Floyd Rim Dinnerware
• Best vitrified ceramic dinnerware set: Fiesta Dinnerware Place Setting
• Best heavy-duty dinnerware set: Brasserie All-White Dinnerware Place Settings
• Best affordable dinnerware set: AmazonBasics Dinnerware Set

Updated on 10/22/2019 by Connie Chen: Updated prices and links.

The best dinnerware set overall

If you are looking for a cost-effective and durable dinnerware set with colorful designs, the Gibson Home Casa Stella Dinnerware Set is your best bet.

What makes the Gibson Home Casa Stella Dinnerware Setspecial is that it's made of durable stoneware and comes in a variety of colors and designs. The stoneware is dishwasher and microwave safe, though the plate can get quite hot when microwaved so handle with care. The set comes with four 4-piece place settings. Each setting includes a dinner plate, dessert plate, mug, and bowl.

You can choose from 10 different styles, including Red, Casa Estebana, Lewisville Teal, and Madame Floral. Red is the most affordable and popular style, and each piece actually features several different colors in addition to red. The shapes of the pieces vary drastically between styles. For example, the Madame Floral plates and bowls are square shaped, which can add a contemporary look to your dining room.

Best Products, God of Smile, and No Place Called Home all recommend the Gibson Home Casa Stella Dinnerware Set. The reviewer at Best Products found the colors to be particularly vibrant and mentioned that this casual set worked best for quick weeknight family meals.

About 83% of the Amazon buyers who reviewed the Gibson Home Casa Stella Dinnerware Set gave it four or five stars. One of the most common comments from buyers is that the plates are heavy duty and can stand up to the clumsiest of families without chipping.

Others note that all of the pieces seem to have a functional size: not too small, not too big. People also found the colors to be pretty and vibrant. However, there were a couple of complaints about the pieces having slightly different coloration within the same set.

Pros: Durable, affordable, colorful designs

Cons: Reports of inconsistent coloration

The best all-white dinnerware set

The Nevaeh White by Fitz and Floyd Rim Dinnerware Collection is ideal for buyers looking for a bone china set that is elegant for formal use but not too fancy for daily use.

The Nevaeh White by Fitz and Floyd Rim Dinnerware Collectionis the only set in our guide made of high-quality bone china. Why does this matter? The 50% bone ash makeup of this set makes it more pliable, lighter, and thinner. It's also less likely to chip than standard porcelain. The bright white hue of the pieces evokes cleanliness.

The four-piece set comes with a 16-ounce coffee mug, 6-inch cereal/soup bowl, 8.25-inch salad plate, and a 10.25-inch dinner plate. All of the pieces are dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also purchase all of the pieces individually in a variety of styles. If you want to round out your table setting with matching serving pieces, the Nevaeh White collection offers platters, serving bowls, salt and pepper shakers, and more.

The Fitz and Floyd Nevaeh Dinnerware Collection is the top pick in The Wirecutter's look at the best dinnerware sets. The reviewer appreciated that this versatile set worked for everyday use as well as formal dinner parties. In his scratch tests, the reviewer was not able to scratch the pieces with knives and forks. He also noted that the cereal bowls were the right depth and width, and the teacups didn't wobble in the saucers. However, he did note that the plates exhibited some minor pitting on the surface of the glaze.

More than 250 buyers have left five-star reviews of the Nevaeh White Rim Dinnerware Collection on the Bed Bath & Beyond website. Karen801 purchased this set to replace stoneware dishes that tended to chip easily. She found this dinnerware to be much lighter, more durable, and it took up less space in her cupboard.

Others echo these sentiments. One buyer commented on how easy it is to clean the pieces. The most helpful critical complaint was from someone who had their coffee mug crack along the bottom and leak coffee. This does not appear to be a common problem.

Pros: Durable, scratch-resistant, lightweight

Cons: Experienced minor pitting in some tests

The best vitrified ceramic dinnerware set

If you are looking for durable, visually-appealing dinnerware and have a little extra money to spend, consider purchasing the Fiesta Dinnerware Place Setting.

The Fiesta Dinnerware Place Setting, more commonly known as "Fiestaware," has an almost cult following. I know this because I grew up in the cult. I remember when my mother first brought the colorful dish sets into our home. I didn't know what the big deal was. But, she was happy, and I had something to eat on.

Decades later as I visit my mom's house, the dinnerware is still going strong with nary a chip. Fiesta is so confident in the chip resistance of its vitrified ceramic pieces that it offers a five-year chip resistance warranty. Vitrified ceramic has very low porosity, which makes for a stronger material.

Fiestaware is best known for its Art Deco styling and concentric circles in a range of colors. Though there may only be a couple dozen colors available at a time, Fiesta has produced countless colors since the dinnerware was first introduced in 1936. Some of the most popular colors currently are Ivory, Tangerine, Daffodil, and Turquoise. Fiesta even offers an online app called Colorama for seeing if the colors you are interested in go well together.

House Tipster has been obsessed with Fiestaware for decades. The reviewer appreciates the vivid, fade-resistant colors. She displays them on open cabinets and exposed shelves. She found that the different colors tended to mix-and-match quite well, but if you find a particular color that you especially like, she recommends buying up all the pieces you want because Fiesta is known to discontinue certain colors.

The Spruce Eats put Fiestaware as their top overall dinnerware set. The reviewer noted that the pieces are incredibly crack and chip resistant. The Wirecutter was much more critical of the dinnerware. The reviewer did not like how flat the bowl bottoms are and found the pieces to be too casual and heavy for formal use.

Approximately 78% of the buyers who rated the Fiestaware on Amazon gave it five stars. Kim Davies, the most helpful reviewer, gave the set four stars because the ivory dinnerware she ordered ended up looking more like a pale yellow. Though, other than that, she was happy.

Many of the other buyers appreciated that all of the pieces are made in the United States and are lead- and cadmium-free. Lead and cadmium have been shown to have negative health consequences.

Pros: Lead- and cadmium-free, chip-resistant, available in countless colors

Cons: Expensive, heavy

The best heavy-duty dinnerware set

The Brasserie All-White Dinnerware Place Settings complement any décor and are durable enough to go under the broiler. 

What sets the Brasserie All-White Dinnerware Place Settings apart from other dinnerware in our guide is that this set is made of high-fired porcelain. High-fired porcelain can handle your oven's broiler, which is a great feature for adding a crispy finish to certain dishes. The pieces are heavier and larger than standard dishware and therefore sturdier.

The dinner plate is 11.25 inches in diameter, the salad plate and soup bowl are 9 inches in diameter, the mug in the 16-piece set has a 13-ounce capacity, and the cup in the 20-piece set has an 11-ounce capacity. Williams Sonoma also offers all of the pieces individually.

The reviewer at The Wirecutter praised the Williams Sonoma Brasserie All-White Dinnerware because of its durability. He noted that the pieces are substantially thicker and heavier than the other items he recommends. However, he liked that the plates could go under the broiler. Though he found the price to be a bit steep, the reviewer appreciated the bright white hue, the even glaze, and the absence of pitting. Remodelista and Houzz also recommend this set.

The Brasserie All-White Dinnerware Place Settings have an average rating of approximately 4.6 stars based on 22 reviews on the Williams Sonoma website. One buyer has used their 20-piece set on a daily basis for more than two decades and has not broken any pieces. The reviewer highly recommends the set because the pieces stand up to abuse and work with any décor.

Another buyer who has had her set for just as long has experienced five broken pieces of the 12+ place settings she started with. She mentioned that she's starting to experience a loss of glaze after 20 years of regular use.

Pros: Incredible durability, broiler-safe, bright white hue

Cons: Expensive

The best affordable dinnerware set

If you are looking for cost-effective dinnerware and can live with minor imperfections, the AmazonBasics Dinnerware Set is for you.

At the time of this writing, our top pick, the Gibson Home Casa Stella Dinnerware Set, was actually about 64 cents cheaper for a 16-piece set than the AmazonBasics Dinnerware Set. So, why is this set our budget pick? The lower price for the Casa Stella set is based on the least expensive style: Red. The other styles cost up to three times as much. Also, the design of the Casa Stella set may not be for all tastes. On the other hand, the AmazonBasics set is a white that works with any interior.

The AmazonBasics Dinnerware Set is BPA-free and made of AB-grade porcelain. It is dishwasher, freezer, oven, and microwave safe so you can use the pieces for a variety of purposes. Each set comes with four 4-piece place settings: 10.5-inch dinner plate, 7.5-inch salad/dessert plate, 5.5-by-2.75-inch bowls, and 4-inch tall mugs with handles. Amazon backs this set with a one-year warranty.

The Spruce Eats recommends the AmazonBasics Dinnerware Set as a good budget option because of the pieces' durability and resistance to scratching and chipping. However, the writer notes that the white finish has more of a gray tinge to it. A Best Pro and Jane's Kitchen also recommend this set.

About 81% of the buyers who reviewed the AmazonBasics Dinnerware Set on Amazon gave it a positive rating. The most helpful review comes from Desmond L. who gave the set three stars. He found the pieces were a great value, had a good weight, and were attractive. Yet, he said the salad and dinner plates came warped and didn't line up properly. This seems to be a common sentiment.

Buyers are happy with what they got for the price, but they note imperfections. Another buyer pointed out that the white was somewhat gray.

Pros: Inexpensive, durable, one-year warranty

Cons: Dishes may come slightly warped, more of a grayish white color

Check out our other buying guides to complete your table setting

The best drinking glasses you can buy

High-quality drinking glasses can handle hot and cold liquids, are resistant to breaking when dropped, and don't spill easily. The Libbey Polaris Drinking Glasses are our top pick because they are inexpensive, feature a weighted base, and have an attractive design. Here are our picks for the best drinking glasses you can buy:

• Best drinking glasses overall:Libbey Polaris Drinking Glasses
• Best plastic drinking glasses: Tervis Tumblers
• Best colorful drinking glasses: Vibrant Splash Highball Glasses
• Best stackable drinking glasses:Bormioli Rocco Rock Bar Stackable Glasses
• Best drinking glass design:Duralex Picardie Clear Tumblers

The best flatware and silverware you can buy

High-quality flatware is appealing to the eye, durable, requires minimal maintenance, and makes eating enjoyable. The Villeroy & Boch New Wave Flatware is our top pick because it's made of heavy-duty 18/10 stainless steel, has a distinct look, and is quite easy to eat with. Here are our picks for the best flatware sets you can buy:

• Best flatware overall: Villeroy & Boch New Wave Flatware
• Best affordable flatware: Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set
• Best high-end flatware: Aero Flatware Place Setting
• Best simple flatware: 20-Piece Pattern 127 Flatware Set
• Best traditional flatware: Oneida Louisiana Flatware Set

The best dining tables you can buy

A top-quality dining table accents your interior décor, can withstand years of daily use, and provides comfortable seating with minimal waste of space. The Origami Drop Leaf Rectangular Dining Table is our top pick because it's made of durable acacia wood and the leaves fold effortlessly when you don't need the extra space. Here are our picks for the best dining tables you can buy:

• Best dining table overall: Origami Drop Leaf Rectangular Dining Table
• Best budget drop leaf dining table: Threshold 40-inch Square Drop Leaf Rustic Dining Table
• Best budget dining table: Coaster Home Furnishings Country Farmhouse Dining Table
• Best glass dining table: Brace Dining Table
• Best dining table for small spaces: Round Weathered Gray Wood Jozy Drop Leaf Table

• If you happen to find certain rare Pokémon or baseball cards in your attic, you could potentially be thousands of dollars richer.
• From your old Game Boy to Beanie Babies and American Girl dolls, there's a decent amount of money to be made from your '90s relics. 
• Here are 35 things from the '90s that are worth a fortune today.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

You might want to check out your old baseball cards or sift through those boxes in your attic, because many toys, books, and collectibles from the '90s could be worth a fortune today.

Read more:A family feud over a $400 million trust fund, a massive fortune that left one heiress with an inferiority complex, and a sprawling media empire. Meet the Disney family.

While some American Girl dolls or My Little Pony toys can be worth hundreds of dollars, a specific "Harry Potter" first edition could be worth around $55,000. 

Here are 35 things from the '90s that are worth a fortune today.

SEE ALSO: Here's how much 10 of your favorite childhood toys are actually worth today

A "Harry Potter" first edition could be worth more than $50,000.

Original "Harry Potter" books from the 1990s could earn you a galleon or two. Hardcover first editions of "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" that contain the print line "10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1" are worth up to $55,000. Though that sum is specifically for the British version of the book, American editions can also make you a nice sum of cash. "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" — the American version — can be worth up to $6,500 if it has the print line "1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2 8 9/9 0/0 01 02" located on the copyright page.

McDonald's Happy Meal toys could be worth a nice bit of money.

McDonald's Happy Meals have been beloved by children of all ages across generations — mainly for the small plastic toy found in each and every smiling red box. However, old McDonald's Happy Meal toys might just make you smile even wider as an adult. Happy Meal Changeables toys have sold for between $20 to $140, depending on the condition and completeness of the set. One of the most valuable Happy Meal toys, "Inspector Gadget" from 1995, could fetch you around $350. 

Collectible Barbie dolls are some of the most valuable '90s toys.

There are a number of collectible Barbie dolls from the '90s that could earn you a nice chunk of change. This "Barbie Loves Elvis" collector's doll set from 1997 is currently being sold for $149 on eBay. A "Jeweled Splendor" Barbie usually goes for around $150, while a Pink Splendor Barbie has sold for a whopping $1,000. 

Barbie accessories and playsets can also make you a fortune.

Barbie might be valuable, but some of her houses and other accessories could also make you money. Vintage Barbie items like the Barbie McDonald's drive-through playset, Barbie "So Much To Do! Bedroom" set, and Barbie "Magic Moves Barbeque" accessories could earn you more than $100 each. 

Beanie Babies are extremely collectible, and some are valued at tens of thousands of dollars.

Everyone who grew up in the 1990s probably owned a Ty Beanie Baby at one point or another. In today's age, you may or may not be surprised to learn that some Beanie Babies could seriously pay off. A rare "Valentino" Beanie Baby is currently being sold for $14,000 on eBay but could be valued at close to $43,000. A "Princess Diana" commemorative Beanie Baby from 1997 has sold for $10,000. Countless other editions have also sold for thousands over the years, including "Claude the Crab," "Gobbles the Turkey," and "Peace the Bear."

An original Furby could make you hundreds of dollars.

An original Furby might creep you out — does anyone else remember them suddenly speaking out of nowhere? — but they could also make you rich. According to Today, a limited-edition "Special Furby Angel" recently sold for $800, while a rare "Kids Cuisine" Furby unopened in its original box sold for $520. Here's hoping you can find one of these fuzzy creatures in your attic.

Rare Pokémon cards can sell for around $50,000.

Pokémon cards can potentially be worth thousands of dollars, depending on the card and condition. An extremely rare "Pikachu Illustrator" card sold for $54,970 in 2017, while a seller asked a whopping $100,000 for the same card, but in authenticated, perfect condition. A "Charizard" card from 1999 could also be worth more than $11,000. 

Original Sky Dancers from Japan go for around $200.

Original Japanese models of the famous 1990s Sky Dancers toys are priced at around $200. 

Action figure collections can make you a nice bit of cash.

While many '90s action figures don't tend to go for extremely high price tags when sold individually, complete sets of action figures can fetch around $20 to $60. 

Rare copies of Super Mario Bros. 3 could potentially sell for around $30,000.

An extremely rare copy of Super Mario Bros. 3 for Nintendo has been sold for a whopping $30,000. While most copies of the game sell for around $15 or $30, this particular edition was priced much higher due to the fact it was sold as an original game, rather than as a bundle with the Nintendo Entertainment System, as most editions of the game were. 

Magic: The Gathering card sets can sell for thousands of dollars.

Brace yourself, because you may want to go back and look at some of your Magic: The Gathering cards. A complete set known as the "Power Nine" could be worth up to $27,000. 

Read more:These 9 Magic: The Gathering cards are worth a staggering $27,000 — here's why

Yu-Gi-Oh! cards can also sell for thousands, depending on the card's rarity.

While one rare Yu-Gi-Oh! card, the "Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon," has been listed for a whopping $400,000, other cards have sold for more than $700. A "Minerva, The Exalted Lightsworn" card has been sold for $1,900, while a "Black Luster Soldier" card awarded during the 1999 Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship in Japan reportedly fetched $2 million. The card is printed on stainless steel rather than traditional card stock and is extremely rare. 

Polly Pocket dolls and accessories can go for hundreds of dollars.

Some Polly Pocket sets have sold for a couple hundred dollars, including a bouncy castle playset and "Fairylight Wonderland," which sold on eBay for $455.

Hot Wheels models have sold for $3,500.

Released in 1995, the Collector Number 271 is considered to be the rarest model Hot Wheels car from the '90s and has been priced at around $3,500. Buyers beware, however — only seven in existence have ever been authenticated. 

A Spice Girls doll set from 1997 is currently listed at an asking price of $150.

Spice Girls memorabilia like the original Spice Girls dolls or Polaroid camera could make you rich. A Spice Girls doll set from 1997 is currently listed at an asking price of $150, while the Spice Girls "Spice Cam" camera is being sold for $148. 

One penny could be worth $20,000.

While most coins from the '90s are virtually worthless — or simply worth their market value — a 1992 Close AM penny in like-new condition could be worth around $20,000, while one in used condition could sell for $2,000 or $3,000. Simply look at your penny from 1992 and see if the right foot of the "A" in "AMERICA" is touching the left foot of the "M."

This stamp set could get you around $100.

This set of stamps by Caricaturist Al Hirschfeld from the late 1990s is being sold for more than $100 online. 

Disney VHS tapes aren't as valuable as people think but once added up, they could get you a nice chunk of change.

Rumors have circulated over the past few years of "Black Diamond" Disney VHS sets fetching thousands of dollars, and some tapes have even been listed for tens of thousands. However, even though one copy of "Beauty and the Beast" sold for $9,000 in 2016, experts say that most Disney VHS tapes are worth around $5 to $25.

Transformers action figures can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

While most Transformers action figures from the 1990s can fetch around $20-$40 each, large collections like this one could sell for roughly $350. Rare collectible Transformers can certainly make you rich, however. A mint condition "Omega Supreme" still in its original box is reportedly worth around $2,000.

Baseball cards can sell for hundreds of dollars, but one is reportedly worth $7,000.

You've probably wondered what some of your old baseball cards are worth. A number 156 Ken Griffey card from 1990 is worth anywhere from $150 to $250, while a near-mint George Bush baseball card from 1990 is worth about $7,000. This Frank Thomas 1990 card could also make you a pretty penny, to the tune of $300. 

Comic books like "The Uncanny X-Men" #266 comic book could be worth up to $475.

While not many comic books from the 1990s hold as much value as earlier editions, this "The Uncanny X-Men" #266 comic book could be worth up to $475.

Garbage Pail Kids collectible card collections can sell for thousands.

Depending on how rare your card is, Garbage Pail Kids cards and collections can potentially fetch you thousands of dollars. One huge collection of the cards has been listed on eBay for roughly $3,250.

American Girl dolls and accessories from the '90s could be worth hundreds today — especially if the dolls are in their original outfits and in good condition.

While the current American Girl dolls can go for around $100, the now-discontinued dolls can be worth a lot, especially if they come with their original outfits and accessories. According to USA Today, a set of American Girl dolls, including Samantha, Molly, and Addy, each with multiple outfits and furniture, was listed for a whopping $11,500. While this is definitely out of the ordinary, a mint-condition Pleasant Company American Girl doll in its original "Meet" outfit could score you around $300. 

Nintendo Game Boy consoles are reportedly worth around $384.

Dig up your old Game Boy, because it could be worth some money. According to PriceCharting, an original Game Boy system could be worth around $384. 

Cabbage Patch Kids dolls are more valuable if they're from the '80s, but '90s versions could fetch around $20 or $30.

Cabbage Patch Kids from the late '70s and early '80s are much more valuable, but some versions from the '90s have fetched around $20 or $30 each. 

Power Ranger action figures are extremely valuable to collectors.

Depending on the action figure, Power Rangers collectors will shell out a decent amount of money to get their hands on your old toy. A "White Tigerzord" Power Ranger from 1994 is currently being listed for $45, while other models and collections could go for around $100 to $300. 

Unopened Lego sets could be worth hundreds of dollars.

Lego bricks have been beloved by children for generations, but the '90s saw a surge in the building blocks' popularity. Unopened Lego sets from the '90s could be worth around $130. 

Vinyl records including Nirvana's "Bleach" re-release and a White Stripes single have fetched thousands at auction.

While records from the 1970s and earlier are generally considered to be the most likely to get you rich today, there are a couple of '90s records that could be worth a lot of cash. A marbled copy of Nirvana's "Bleach" re-release from 1992 could go for $1,500, while a rare early White Stripes single from 1998 was sold at auction for $18,000. 

Tamagotchi toys can be worth a lot of money.

While many Tamagotchi toys are practically worthless, some rare editions like the "Tamagotchi Ocean," "Yasashii Blue," or a white and red first-generation Tamagotchi could be worth hundreds of dollars. 

Your Baby All Gone doll from 1996 could be worth $80.

The popular Baby All Gone, which could be fed and changed, is currently worth around $80 on eBay. Your baby doll might be all gone, but isn't the money worth it?

A '90s-era Easy-Bake Oven can reportedly sell for up to $300.

Easy-Bake Ovens were one the hottest — no pun intended — toy among children in the 1990s. The toy can reportedly sell for up to $300 today, and we've found one version from 1994 going for around $50 on eBay. 

A Tickle Me Elmo doll could sell for around $60.

When Tickle Me Elmo hit the market in 1996, kids everywhere fell in love. A Tickle Me Elmo doll in its original box can be worth around $60 today.

Some of the rarest My Little Pony dolls could be worth thousands.

While individual My Little Pony dolls from the 1990s can go for around $20 to $40, sets could be worth as much as $100. Rare versions of the dolls from the late '80s, however, have sold for as much as $1,500. 

Coca-Cola products and apparel usually sell for at least $35 to $60.

Coca-Cola products from any era tend to hold value, and items from the 1990s are no exception. Apparel and merchandise from the '90s could hold a value of at least $35 to $60 on eBay.

Disney memorabilia and toys from the '90s, also known as the Disney Renaissance, could sell for hundreds of dollars.

Your old Disney toys could make you rich. "Toy Story" toys tend to hold a lot of value — a pair of Woody and Buzz toys is currently being listed for $300, while a Wheezy penguin doll is being sold for $278. The '90s are commonly known as the Disney Renaissance, when popular films like "The Little Mermaid" and multiple Disney princess movies broke onto the scene. Therefore, it's no wonder collectors want to get their hands on these toys. 

• Read more:
• How to make money on the side, no matter how busy you are
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• Macy's, Inc. has announced that they will stop selling fur products that are not ethically sourced by the end of fiscal year 2020.
• The ban includes every brand and subsidiary owned by Macy's Inc., including their namesake retail chain and Bloomingdale's department stores, which the company owns.
• The term "unethically sourced" stems from the fact that often, animals popular only for their fur and not commonly used for food — such as foxes, rabbits, and minks — are put through "cruel" conditions for their fur, the New York Times reports. 
• As result, Macy's, Inc.'s new fur policy will be in compliance with the Fur Free Alliance guidelines, which allow "ethically sourced" fur products from animals ethically raised for food, such as sheep and cattle, per CNN.
• The company is just the latest to move away from "unethically sourced" fur, following Gucci and the state of California. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Macy's, Inc. — and all of its stores, subsidiaries, vendors, suppliers, and private brands — will be fur-free by the end of fiscal year 2020.

In a press statement released on their website, the company announced a new policy that complies with the guidelines set by animal rights organization Fur Free Alliance, which bans the use of all animal furs except "fur that is a by-product of domestic farming to feed our society." 

"We curate our assortment based on the wants and needs of our customers. Our customer is migrating away from natural fur and we are aligning with this trend. With the rise of new fabric technology, alternatives like faux fur and other fabric innovations make this a seamless transition for our customers," the retail company wrote on its website.

Read more: Macy's will test free same-day delivery in select markets for online orders over $75 — here's where you can get it

The fur ban is effective immediately in Macy's private brands

The company's other brands and subsidiaries will be fur free by the end of fiscal year 2020. This also means that the company will be shuttering all Macy's Fur Vault and Bloomingdale's Maximillian locations, which store and otherwise service customers' furs.

"We remain committed to providing great fashion and value to our customers, and we will continue to offer high-quality and fashionable faux fur alternatives," said Jeff Gennette, chairman and chief executive officer of Macy's, Inc., in the company's press release.

Macy's, Inc. is just the latest entity in the retail sector to step away from selling fur, following luxury brands Gucci, Chanel, and Burberry. The state of California also enacted a ban on the sale and manufacture of new animal fur products starting in 2023.

"We applaud Macy's, Inc.'s forward-thinking and principled decision to end the sale of fur by the end of fiscal 2020," Kitty Block, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States, said in a statement for the same press release. "This announcement is consistent with the views of countless consumers in the marketplace, and other retailers should follow. With so many designers, major cities and now a state taking a stand against the sale of fur, we're that much closer to ending this unnecessary and inhumane practice."

SEE ALSO: Nordstrom is opening a massive NYC flagship store complete with 7 stories of shopping and 7 places for shoppers to eat. Take a look inside.

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• Fender has launched Fender Songs, its latest digital product.
• Fender Songs joins Fender Play, Fender Tune, and Fender Tone to form a suite of online music tools.
• Fender CEO Andy Mooney called Fender Songs the 73-year-old company's "next logical" step as it seeks to grow its business.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

The Fender Musical Instruments Corporation has been around for over 70 years. But in the past few, it's entered a lively new phase of business, under the leadership of CEO Andy Mooney.

Fender's iconic electric guitars have been played by legends ranging from Jimi Hendrix to Eric Clapton to Buddy Guy to Bruce Springsteen. The instrument, however, isn't exactly a breeze to learn.

Mooney came to the company in 2015 after successful runs at Nike and the Walt Disney Company and immediately confronted this challenge. In a nutshell, Mooney determined that if Fender could encourage just 10% more beginners to stick with guitar, the industry could grow substantially (the 90% of first-timers that give up never become the longtime customers who spend a lifetime buying equipment).

But Mooney also determined that potential customers were spending four times as much on instruction as gear — and that Fender had an untapped opportunity in women, who made up 50% of new guitar buyers.

Read more:I spent a few months using Fender's online guitar-learning tool — and I was surprised by how much I learned

This suggested a digital strategy to Mooney and his team, one they're now pursued aggressively with on subscription-based online learning system called Fender Play, launched in 2017 and now with 110,000 paying subscribers, Mooney said in an interview with Business Insider.

A way to learn lyrics and chords — and play songs!

On Tuesday, Fender unveiled another online tool, Fender Songs. 

"Fender Songs can be downloaded exclusively for iPhone and iPod touch in the App Store with plans for iPad and other platforms in the future," Fender said in a statement.

"Users can sign up at $4.99 per month or a 12-month subscription for $41.99 per year and get 10 percent off guitars, amps and gear on Fender.com and at participating retailers (with a 7-day free trial for both). Fender Songs will improve the player experience at all skill levels by allowing instant access to chords and lyrics to millions of songs, so that users may forge deeper connections with their favorite artists and songs as they continue their musical journey."

Fender Play sought to professionalize the world of online, video-based instruction — which, as anyone who has ever tracked down a tutorial on YouTube knows, can be highly variable in quality. I tested it out a few years back and thought it was generally excellent.

Fender Songs takes matters to the next level. Online, it's easy to find sites that combine a video performance of a song with a walkthrough of that song's chords, enabling someone to play along. But again, quality varies. By creating an app that carries the Fender brand, the company intends to further professionalize this type of ad-hoc song learning.

The next logical Fender product

"People want to play songs!" Mooney said. That night sound like an obvious insight, but in practice, guitar instruction can get bogged down in technique, as any beginner who has been confronted with all the scales in the major keys can attest. Most popular songs, however, are based on simple, repeated chords structures. Figure that out, and in a matter of minutes you can enjoy your guitar rather than struggle with it.

Fender developed an algorithm that can take a streamed song and identify its chords with high accuracy. Millions of song are available, and Fender has made deals with numerous major music publishers to be sure that artists are compensated for their songs. The idea is that a subscriber could learn a song at his or her own pace, following a chord progression and lyrics. They could also record their progress. The app is designed to work with guitars, ukuleles, and pianos or keyboards.

For Mooney, Fender Songs joins Fender Play and two other apps, Fender Tune and Fender Tone (the latter designed to work with Fender's modeling amplifiers), to form a suite of digital tools.

"Fender Songs is next logical product," he said. 

But what about selling more Fender guitars and amps?

"Increased engagement should lead to increased sales," he said. "It's good for the hardware side of the business. And we've picked up the pace of product innovation."

SEE ALSO: I spent a few months using Fender's online guitar-learning tool — and I was surprised by how much I learned

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: This musical device could turn air guitar players into rock stars

• Credit Suisse just released its annual Global Wealth Report, revealing which countries the most millionaires call home.
• The US consistently tops the list. There are almost 47 million people in the world in the millionaire club, and roughly 40% of them reside in the US.
• See the ranked list of countries with the highest number of millionaires, coupled with the country's population and median wealth per person for reference.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Minting a million-dollar fortune isn't the remarkable feat it used to be.

It remains a marker of immense wealth, but the club is growing ever more crowded, with nearly 47 million people across the globe now laying claim to fortunes in excess of $1 million, according to estimates by Credit Suisse in its most recent Global Wealth Databook. 

The report shows that US alone claims 18.6 million adults with a net worth above $1 million — that's nearly 40% of all the world's millionaires and more than the next eight countries combined. In 2018, the US also welcomed 675,000 newcomers to the millionaire club, which accounts for more than half the global total of new millionaires. Notably, however, China, the country with the second-highest millionaire count, surpassed the US to become the country with the most people in the top 10% of global wealth distribution.

Read more:For the first time ever, there are more ultra-wealthy people in China than the US — and America's growing wealth gap may be partially to blame

The millionaire population isn't necessarily an indicator of overall wealth within a country, though. Despite having the most millionaires by a gaping margin, the report indicates that the median wealth for adults in the US is $65,904. The median wealth for adults in China is $20,942. Of the 18 countries with more than 300,000 millionaires, that's a lower median wealth figure than all but India ($3,042).

Below, Business Insider has ranked the 18 countries with the most millionaires — that's all fortunes above $1 million, including the billionaires — based on Credit Suisse's annual wealth report. We've also included the country's population and median wealth for comparison purposes. The countries are listed in ascending order of number of millionaires.

SEE ALSO: These 10 countries have minted the most new millionaires in 2019

DON'T MISS: The richest American 37 years ago wouldn't even make it onto the Forbes billionaires list today

18. Austria

Number of millionaires: 313,000

Adult population: 7.09 million

Median wealth per adult: $94,070

17. Sweden

Number of millionaires: 374,000

Adult population: 7.72 million

Median wealth per adult: $41,582

16. Hong Kong SAR

Number of millionaires: 516,000

Adult population: 6.27 million

Median wealth per adult: $146,887

15. Taiwan

Number of millionaires: 528,000

Adult population: 19.3 million

Median wealth per adult: $70,191

14. South Korea

Number of millionaires: 741,000

Adult population: 42 million

Median wealth per adult: $72,198

13. India

Number of millionaires: 759,000

Adult population: 866 million

Median wealth per adult: $3,042

12. Switzerland

Number of millionaires: 810,000

Adult population: 7 million

Median wealth per adult: $227,891

11. The Netherlands

Number of millionaires: 832,000

Adult population: 13.33 million

Median wealth per adult: $31,057

10. Spain

Number of millionaires: 979,000

Adult population: 37.45 million

Median wealth per adult: $95,360

9. Australia

Number of millionaires: 1,180,000

Adult population: 19 million

Median wealth per adult: $181,361

8. Canada

Number of millionaires: 1,322,000

Adult population: 29 million

Median wealth per adult: $107,004

7. Italy

Number of millionaires: 1,496,000

Adult population: 48.5 million

Median wealth per adult: $91,889

6. France

Number of millionaires: 2,071,000

Adult population: 49.72 million

Median wealth per adult: $101,942

5. Germany

Number of millionaires: 2,187,000

Adult population: 68 million

Median wealth per adult: $35,313

4. United Kingdom

Number of millionaires: 2,460,000

Adult population: 51 million

Median wealth per adult: $97,452

3. Japan

Number of millionaires: 3,025,000

Adult population: 105 million

Median wealth per adult: $110,408

2. China

Number of millionaires: 4,447,000

Adult population: 1.09 billion

Median wealth per adult: $20,942

1. United States

Number of millionaires: 18,614,000

Adult population: 245 million

Median wealth per adult: $65,904

• A recent study by GoBankingRates found the 17 best suburbs where a typical monthly mortgage is less than $1,000.
• The study calculated the average monthly mortgage payment in each suburb by factoring in a 30-year fixed mortgage rate of 3.64%, a 20% down payment, and local county effective property tax rates.
• The chosen suburbs were also measured on factors including safety, cost of living, and quality of local school districts.
• Elsmere, Delaware, in the Wilmington metro area, was the top-ranked, with an average monthly mortgage payment of $570.
• According to RentCafe's recent apartment market report, using data sourced from Yardi Matrix, the national average rent was $1,471 in September 2019.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

American suburbs are growing increasingly popular. 

In fact, around 175 million Americans live in the country's suburbs— that's more than half the country's total population, which is around 329 million.

Factors like good public schools, low crime rates, and affordable housing costs can make certain suburbs more desirable than others. A recent study by personal finance platform GoBankingRates found the 17 best US suburbs where the average monthly mortgage is less than $1,000.

For comparison purposes, the national average rent (per RentCafe's recent apartment market report, using data sourced from Yardi Matrix) reached $1,471 in September.

Read more: The most expensive suburb in every US state

To gather a list of the top 95 US suburbs, GoBankingRates sourced from a previous study that found the best suburbs in every state. These suburbs were measured on factors including median home prices, necessary living expenses that don't include housing costs, crime rates, and school district scores, which were sourced from the ranking and review site Niche.

For the current study, limiting the list to only those top-ranked suburbs that also have mortgages under $1,000 a month, GoBankingRates calculated the average monthly mortgage payment in each suburb by factoring in a 30-year fixed mortgage rate of 3.64%, a 20% down payment, and local county effective property tax rates.

Keep reading for a list of the 17 best suburbs where the average monthly mortgage is less than $1,000, ranked in order of decreasing mortgage costs.

SEE ALSO: The 15 best US cities to buy waterfront property in — without breaking the bank

DON'T MISS: 31 US cities where it's cheaper to buy a house than to rent a place

17. Plum, Pennsylvania, sits about 19 miles east of Pittsburgh.

Metro area: Pittsburgh

Monthly mortgage payment: $997

Population:27,390

16. La Vergne, Tennessee, was voted the No. 1 best place to raise a family in Rutherford County by the ranking and review site Niche.

Metro area: Nashville

Monthly mortgage payment: $951

Population: 34,905

Source: Niche

15. Altamonte Springs, Florida, is around 40 minutes away by car from Walt Disney World, according to Google Maps.

Metro area: Orlando

Monthly mortgage payment: $940

Population: 43,084

14. Lexington, South Carolina, has the third-lowest county property tax rate on this list. According to the study, residents enjoy a rate of just 0.541%.

Metro area: Columbia

Monthly mortgage payment: $932

Population: 20,653

13. Mayfield Heights, Ohio, was given an A-plus on Niche for its public school district.

Metro area: Cleveland

Monthly mortgage payment: $917

Population: 18,841

Source: Niche

12. Fairfield, Ohio, has a median household income of $62,198, according to Niche.

Metro area: Cincinnati

Monthly mortgage payment: $876

Population: 42,589

Source: Niche

11. Maryland Heights, Missouri, boasts a median home value of $155,700 which is $29,000 less than the national value of $184,700, according to Niche.

Metro area: St. Louis

Monthly mortgage payment: $840

Population: 27,246

Source:Niche

10. Cabot, Arkansas, is around just 30 minutes away by car from Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas.

Metro area: Little Rock

Monthly mortgage payment: $805

Population: 25,732

9. Claremore, Oklahoma, ranked No. 3 on Niche's list of the best places to live in Rogers County.

Metro area: Tulsa

Monthly mortgage payment: $799

Population: 18,777

Source: Niche

8. Socorro, Texas, has a median home value of $88,700, which is nearly $100,000 less than the national value of $184,700, according to Niche.

Metro area: El Paso

Monthly mortgage payment: $792

Population: 33,587

Source: Niche

7. Lebanon, Indiana, has a household income of $47,234 and a median home value of $113,800, according to Niche.

Metro area: Indianapolis

Monthly mortgage payment: $791

Population: 15,710

Source: Niche

6. El Reno, Oklahoma, was ranked No. 2 on Niche's list of the most diverse suburbs in Oklahoma.

Metro area: Oklahoma City

Monthly mortgage payment: $672

Population: 18,378

Source: Niche

5. Millbrook, Alabama, has the lowest county property tax rate of any suburb on this list. According to the study, homeowners in Millbrook pay just 0.298% in taxes on their property.

Metro area: Montgomery

Monthly mortgage payment: $665

Population: 14,994

4. New Haven, Indiana, was ranked No. 15 on Niche's list of suburbs with the lowest cost of living in Indiana.

Metro area: Fort Wayne

Monthly mortgage payment: $662

Population: 15,895

Source: Niche

3. Pearl, Mississippi was ranked No. 7 on Niche's list of the best suburbs to raise a family in Mississippi.

Metro area: Jackson

Monthly mortgage payment: $658

Population: 26,468

Source: Niche

2. Baker, Louisiana, has a median household income of $44,509 and a median home value of $126,000, per Niche.

Metro area: Baton Rouge 

Monthly mortgage payment: $647

Population: 13,694

Source: Niche

1. Elsmere, Delaware, has the lowest average monthly mortgage on this list and is home to around 6,000 people.

Metro area: Wilmington

Monthly mortgage payment: $570

Population: 6,097

• You can add friends on your Apple Watch to compare workout progress using the Activity app on the iPhone.
• There are several other apps on the Apple Watch in which you can stay in touch with friends. You can add and manage friends on each app separately.
• To use the Walkie-Talkie app, you'll need to invite friends from within the app.  
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

As an extension of your iPhone, your Apple Watch can be something of a social hub on your wrist. 

There are several ways to stay in touch with friends on the watch, including making phone calls, using the "push to talk" walkie-talkie, and sharing workout activity results. 

To make use of all these features, though, you need to make sure you can access your friends on your phone.  

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

Apple Watch Series 5 (From $399.99 at Best Buy)

iPhone 11 (From $699.99 at Best Buy)

How to add friends on the Apple Watch Phone app 

Good news — you generally don't have to do anything to add friends on the Apple Watch's Phone app because the watch mirrors the same Favorites and Contacts that you already have stored on your iPhone. 

As soon as you pair your watch to your phone (for instructions, see "How to pair an Apple Watch with your iPhone"), your contact information should appear automatically. 

How to add friends on the Apple Watch Walkie-Talkie app 

While far from essential, the Walkie-Talkie app is a delightful addition to the Apple Watch. It lets you push-to-talk to have quick, impromptu conversations using internet data, without actually placing a cellular call.

To use the app though, you need to invite your Apple Watch-owning friends. 

1. Start the Walkie-Talkie app on your Apple Watch. To do that, press the Digital Crown and tap the app, which has a yellow background. 

2. Scroll to the bottom and tap "Add Friends."

3. Find the person you want to invite to the app from your list of contacts. After accepting the invitation, they will appear in the app automatically.

Read more:How to use the Walkie-Talkie app on an Apple Watch to quickly chat with your contacts

How to add friends on the Apple Watch Activity app using your iPhone 

1. Open the Activity app on your iPhone.

2. Tap "Sharing" at the bottom of the screen to switch to the Sharing tab. 

3. Tap the plus sign at the top right of the screen. 

4. In your list of contacts, find the friend you want to invite to the Activity app and tap on the entry. You can add multiple people to the invitation.

5. When you're done, tap "Send."

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

• The 5 best games you can play on an Apple Watch

• 'Why isn't my Apple Watch charging?': How to troubleshoot Apple Watch charging issues in 3 ways

• How to delete messages from your Apple Watch, even if your iPhone isn't nearby

• The water drop icon on your Apple Watch means that Water Lock is enabled — here's how to turn it off

SEE ALSO: The best Wear OS smartwatches you can buy

Join the conversation about this story »

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• You can remove your Apple ID from an Apple Watch by removing its Activation Lock, which will erase your information and unpair it from your iPhone. 
• You'll need to remove your Apple ID from an Apple Watch if you are giving the watch away, so your personal information is wiped and a new user can sign in. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

If you are selling or giving away your Apple Watch, you'll need to remove the Activation Lock before someone else can begin to use it. 

This removes your Apple ID and other personal information, and unpairs it from your iPhone, which allows the watch to be configured by a new user. 

Here's how to do it. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

Apple Watch Series 5 (From $399.99 at Best Buy)

iPhone 11 (From $699.99 at Best Buy)

How to remove your Apple ID from an Apple Watch

1. Make sure that your iPhone and Apple Watch are in range of one another and then start the Watch app on your iPhone. 

2. On the My Watch tab, tap the watch at the top of the screen.

3. Tap the "i" to the right of the watch entry at the top of the screen.

4. Tap "Unpair Apple Watch" and confirm you really want to do it. If you have a cellular model, you will also need to choose whether to keep or remove your cellular plan. 

5. When requested, enter your Apple ID password to complete the process.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

• How to backup an Apple Watch and restore its data after you unpair it from an iPhone

• How to reset your Apple Watch and unpair it from an iPhone

• How to update your Apple Watch and get the device's latest features

• How to tell if your Apple Watch is waterproof or water-resistant, and to what extent

SEE ALSO: The Apple Watch Series 5 is available now from Best Buy, Apple, and more for $399 and up

Join the conversation about this story »

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• In early October, Italian designer Antonio Vietri debuted what might be the world's most expensive shoe— the "Moon Star Shoes," worth nearly $20 million, reported Sophie Prideaux for The National.
• The Moon Star Shoes are fashioned out of a solid gold heel, 30 carats of diamonds, and a piece of an Argentinian meteorite circa 1576, Prideaux wrote.
• Footwear has become the most powerful category in the online luxury market, says a report from The NPD Group.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Are you willing to put your money where your feet are?

Earlier in October, Italian designer Antonio Vietri debuted the world's most expensive shoe — the "Moon Star Shoes," valued at Dhs73 million (or about $19.9 million), reported Sophie Prideaux for The National, an English-language UAE news site.

They were showcased on a yacht in Dubai, no less, as part of MIDE (Made in Italy, Designed in Emirates) Fashion Week. Consisting of a solid gold heel, 30 carats of diamonds, and a bit of an Argentinian meteorite circa 1576, the shoes may be record-breaking, Prideaux wrote.

Harper's Bazaar Arabia reported that Vietri is known for crafting the "world's first 24k gold shoes" in 2017, which were delivered via helicopter to buyers. According to Forbes Italia, the shoes are a tribute to Dubai's Burj Khalifa,  which is the tallest building in the world.

"The most expensive shoes in the world are mine. And the record came to [the] city of Turin. I love my city," the designer wrote on Instagram on October 14.

Vietri didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Read more: From Converse to Air Jordans, sneakers have been a status symbol for decades — but millennials are redefining what that means in 3 major ways

Money for a pair of Christian Louboutins— the classic status symbol brand that ranges in price from the high-hundreds to mid-thousands — looks like chump change compared to the Moon Star Shoes.

But there's something to be said for ultra-expensive footwear

Expensive shoes have surpassed luxury handbags as the latest status symbol, Business Insider's Mary Hanbury previously reported. Consumers are spending more money on expensive shoes than luxury handbags — $794 on one pair on average, Hanbury wrote, citing a report by The NPD Group.

As a result, footwear has become the most powerful category in the online luxury market. But there's no doubt that this pair of heels takes things to a whole new level.

There's no word yet on how comfortable they are.

SEE ALSO: 9 unlikely items that have become luxury status symbols among the elite

DON'T MISS: A rise in discreet wealth is creating a new type of status symbol, and the elite are spending their money on 5 key lifestyle choices to keep up with it

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Why Louboutin shoes are so expensive

• There are several methods to get your PS4 out of Safe Mode if it's stuck in a loop.
• You can troubleshoot your PS4 using Safe Mode's internal menu, for instance, or try power cycling.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. 

The PlayStation 4's Safe Mode is a great option for troubleshooting problems you might have with your console. 

However, sometimes your PS4 might enter a "Safe Mode loop" that makes it difficult to get out of Safe Mode and resume playing.

In these cases, there are a few things you can try to get your PS4 out of Safe Mode. Most of these involve the Safe Mode menu, which appears when you first boot your console into Safe Mode.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

PlayStation 4 (From $299.99 at Best Buy)

SEE ALSO: 8 affordable PlayStation 4 accessories that'll help you make the most of your console

How to get a PS4 out of Safe Mode

When your PS4 boots up in Safe Mode, you will be taken to a screen with seven options.

Some of these options are related to your PS4's overall settings, such as resolution, but several of them can help get your PS4 out of Safe Mode.

Here are four troubleshooting methods you can use. 

Restart your PS4

First, try restarting your PS4 using option 1 in the Safe Mode menu. 

Select this option and press X.

Make sure there are no power issues

If the first method fails, check to make sure all of the cables, including your USB and HDMI connections, are working properly. If one of the cables or connections is broken or failing, try replacing it.

If the cables and connections are working fine, try power cycling your PS4, as explained in our article, "'Why won't my PS4 turn on?': How to troubleshoot your PS4 if it won't turn on, using 4 different methods."

Rebuild corrupted files

If the second method fails, the problem might be caused by a corrupted file. 

Select option 5 on the Safe Mode menu, "Rebuild Database," and press X. This will build a new database for your PS4 without affecting any save data. 

Update your PS4's software

If the third method fails, try updating your PS4's system software from the Safe Mode menu. 

Select option 3 on the menu, "Update System Software," and press X. Then, select "Update Using Internet" and press X. From there, follow the instructions on the screen.

If nothing else works, select option 7, "Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)," and press X. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

• How to update your PS4 console in 2 different ways, to access its latest features and security improvements

• How to connect your PS4 controller to a Mac computer wirelessly to play digitally downloaded games

• How to sign into your Playstation Network account on a PS4, and set up two-step verification for added security

• How to properly clean a PS4 console, on both the exterior and interior

• If your iPhone won't connect to Bluetooth, there are a number of ways to fix it. 
• You should first make sure Bluetooth is turned on and try connecting your device in the Bluetooth settings. 
• If your iPhone still won't connect to Bluetooth, you can try deleting other devices from Bluetooth settings, updating your iOS software, resetting your network settings, or restarting your iPhone entirely. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Bluetooth is one of the great innovations with a smartphone — a quick network that allows you to connect your iPhone to everything from TV, to a computer, to your car's stereo. 

However, if it isn't working for one reason or another, Bluetooth is worthless. 

Here are a few ways to troubleshoot your iPhone'sBluetooth connection. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPhone 11 (From $699.99 at Best Buy)

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

Why your iPhone won't connect to Bluetooth, and how to fix it

The first step when encountering Bluetooth issues is to ensure your iPhone is transmitting its Bluetooth signal properly. 

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap on Bluetooth.

3. Make sure the button next to Bluetooth is toggled green. If not, tap on the button next to Bluetooth so it turns green. 

Make sure your device is connected to Bluetooth

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap on Bluetooth.

3. When the Bluetooth menu is opened, you should get a list of all the devices you've connected with before. If the particular device you want to connect to is not shown, make sure the device is set for pairing so it shows up in the list.

4. Tap on the device so it moves from "Other Devices" to "My Devices."

5. Then tap on the device so it changes from "Not Connected" to "Connected."

Delete other devices from Bluetooth

Sometimes Bluetooth can have an issue connecting with too many devices, or you can't tell which device is the one you want, and you have to delete others.

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap on Bluetooth.

3. Tap on other devices to disconnect. If it's a device you will never use again, tap on the "i" button and then select Forget This Device.

Update your software to the most recent iOS

Sometimes items, including Bluetooth, won't function properly on your iPhone if your iOS is out of date.

1. Open Settings.

2. Scroll down to and tap on General.

3. The second item should be Software Update. Tap on this to update. If there is a red circle in it, there is an update waiting.

4. Tap on it to update to the most recent iOS.

Reset your network settings

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap on General.

3. Scroll down to the bottom and tap on Reset.

4. Tap on "Reset Network Settings." 

Restart your iPhone

Sometimes your iPhone simply needs to be turned off and on again to fix issues. 

If the above steps don't work, you should try turning your iPhone off and on again to refresh the software. Try connecting to Bluetooth again after you've done this.

For more information, read our article, "How to restart and force-restart any iPhone model." 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

• How to pair an iPhone with your car in 3 different ways, including through Apple's advanced CarPlay app

• How to connect Beats wireless headphones and Powerbeats earbuds to your iPhone

• How to change the name of a Bluetooth device on your iPhone

• 'Why is my iPhone so quiet?': 4 ways to make your iPhone louder, from changing its settings to sticking it in a bowl

• No suit is complete without a great necktie.
• For your staple tie, it's hard to beat black, and this luxurious silk tie from Turnbull and Asser hits every mark. Its high-quality bias-cut Italian silk looks wonderful, drapes beautifully, and works with any type of knot. 

The venerable necktie is perhaps the most timeless of men's accessories. Ties are both loved and hated, and they've been saddled with undeserved connotations of stuffy work environments and restrictive dress codes. Yet the 21st century has seen a great return to tradition in the world of menswear. In the age of "business casual," no longer is the suit-and-tie a symbol of conformity or of office drudgery. Now, wearing a nice tie one of the surest ways for the well-dressed man to stand apart from the sea of pleated khakis and baggy blue button-up shirts.

It should come as no surprise, then, that the necktie — just like many other elements of traditional menswear — is undergoing something of a renaissance at the moment. Perhaps due to (and not in spite of) more casual modern dress codes, more men are opting to wear a tie because they want to instead of begrudgingly putting one on because they have to. And maybe this is the way it should have been all along.

If you're reading this, then you're probably hoping to learn what constitutes a good tie, plan to start or expand your own neckwear rotation, or both. It's a good possibility that you've already got a few cheap neckties sitting in a drawer or your closet and it's time to upgrade.

We've made it easier for you to get started by picking out our five favorite neckties that we think every many should own. If you wanted, you could just grab this handful of essentials and pretty much be set. Although once you've entered the big, beautiful world of fine men's neckwear, it's not likely you'll want to stop at five.

Here are the best ties you can buy:

• The best tie overall: Turnbull and Asser black silk tie
• The best semi-formal tie: Brooks Brothers silk repp tie
• The best casual knit tie: Charles Tyrwhitt knit tie
• The best tie for spring and summer: Bonobos linen tie
• The best tie for fall and winter: American Woolen Company tie

SEE ALSO: The best dress shoes for men that you can buy online

The best tie overall

The Turnbull and Asser tie is our top pick because it's a classic and versatile style with a silky, matte finish that instantly elevates any formal look.

Let's be honest: You probably already have a black tie, but it's probably some cheap polyester thing you grabbed at a department store years ago. It's probably machine-stitched, shiny, and the exact type of tie that makes you think ties are merely a necessary evil. Trust us, it's time for an upgrade.

This hand-made tie from the renowned English menswear brand Turnbull and Asser is a classic. It has a lovely woven twill surface that lends the tie an attractive visual texture and sets it apart from the ocean of cheap, satin-look black neckties many guys are wearing.

Known for its luxurious dress shirts, Turnbull and Asser brings that same royal pedigree to its neckwear, making its ties in England of fine silk woven exclusively in Suffolk. The silk is hand-stitched, and you can see it because of the hidden loop stitch on the backside. It is thickly woven with a twill surface texture that gives it a unique look and great hand-feel.

The thicker fabric and conservative width (3.75 inches at its widest point) allow this timeless tie to work well with most suits, face shapes, and knots. The wider Windsor and half-Windsor knots are my recommendations for this one.

Feel free to pair the Turnbull and Asser necktie with any suit you'd feel comfortable wearing with black dress shoes. A black tie won't go well with certain casual suit shades like tan or olive, but it's a great no-nonsense accessory to pair with the charcoal, light- and mid-gray, and dark navy jackets you're likely to be wearing in most business or formal environments.

James Bond often favored simple woven black ties in the Ian Fleming novels, and if something like this is good enough for 007, it's good enough for us.

Pros: It's hand-stitched in Kent of Suffolk-made silk, the conservative width is ideal for almost any occasion or work environment, and the thicker twill weave gives the tie great body with an appealing visual texture

Cons: It won't pair well with some casual suit colors, and it's fairly expensive

The best semi-formal tie

This American-made silk repp necktie from Brooks Brothers pairs a subdued burgundy color with bold stripes that make it the perfect accessory for almost any suit.

You really only need one good black tie in your neckwear rotation, so once you've got that staple nailed down, it's time to move into more colorful territory. For a good semi-formal jack-of-all-trades tie, dark solids and subtle patterns are what you want. Imagine something that Don Draper might wear with one of his ever-present mid-gray suits. You've got a lot of options, but our pick is a tried-and-true striped repp necktie from Brooks Brothers.

This tie features a bold pattern that is commonly referred to as "repp" or "rep" to describe the fabric's diagonal weave. This kind of tie has been around for more than a century and remains especially popular in Anglophone countries like England and the United States, because of their use of traditional colors that represent British and American Ivy League schools.

Today, the striped repp tie is heavily associated with 20th century American prep and few brands represent this style ethos as well as Brooks Brothers. Like many Brooks Brothers neckties, this one is made in the United States of fine bias-cut English silk. It hits the slim-to-medium spot on the width spectrum at 2.6 inches, keeping it reasonably conservative but not too stuffy and making it a highly flexible option for most suits, dress shirts, face shapes, and knot types.

I personally recommend a half-windsor knot for this one, as it goes nicely with the tie's "middle-ground" width without being as in-your-face as a full windsor. The Brooks Brothers repp tie is easily the most versatile piece of neckwear on our roundup as well, so feel free to pair it with just about any casual or semi-formal suit ensemble and wear it proudly year-round.

Pros: It's made in America of English-woven silk, the repp fabric has great body and texture without being shiny, it has a conservative bold striped pattern with a versatile medium cut, it's an excellent value, and it's easily the most versatile tie a man can own

Cons: The American Ivy League style is distinctly preppy may not suit everyone's tastes

The best casual knit tie

For a more casual tie, it's hard to beat a slim-cut knit, and the Charles Tyrwhitt tie is the perfect choice for adding some traditional masculine flair to a less formal outfit.

Moving away from formal and semi-formal neckwear brings us towards more laid-back styles, particularly the knit tie, which is a fantastic choice for casual wear. Whether you're adding a necktie to a business casual outfit for the office or pairing it with a smart-looking jacket for an evening out, a slim-cut silk or cotton knit tie is an essential piece of kit to have in your wardrobe.

Knit ties have become very common in recent years, but they're hardly new. Just like the timeless black necktie, Fleming's Bond was a big fan of knits. Knit fabrics are a stylish yet subtle way to spruce up an otherwise conservative solid-colored necktie thanks to the appealing visual texture of the surface. Pretty much all tiemakers offer knits today, but our pick is this attention-grabbing example from Charles Tyrwhitt, another English company known for its shirts.

Cotton isn't as costly as silk, but the quality and cut of the cloth still matters – even with a casual tie, there's no excuse for thin floppy fabric that is over-prone to wrinkling and distorting. Another thing to be wary of with knit ties is a weave that's too loose. You don't want a fabric that's woven so that it leaves your shirt readily visible underneath, but the Charles Tyrwhitt knit necktie features a thick weave for a solid hand-feel and a great look. The tie also offers a nice drape thanks to its substantial body.

Charles Tyrwhitt offers its ties in a variety of widths. The 2.5-inch size is suitably modern and slim without looking anemic, so there's no danger of it going out of style as those super-narrow ties are sure to. The slim-but-not-skinny cut also lets this necktie play nicely with a wider range of jackets, shirts, and face shapes.

Slim ties like this one work best with a four-in-hand knot, but the chunkier knit fabric offers sufficient thickness and body to work well with a half-windsor.

Pros: The chunkier knit texture looks and feels great, the thicker fabric gives the tie an excellent body and drape

Cons: The tie's casual style doesn't lend itself as well to more conservative suits

The best tie for spring and summer

Linen is just the sort of airy fabric you want for summer. This stylish American-made Bonobos pastel necktie will pair well with casual and light-colored suits.

While silk remains the most popular material for ties, it isn't particularly breathable around your neck in those sultry summer months. Enter, linen. This wonderful fabric is airy, light, and breathable. Plus, it has many of the draping properties of silk and cotton.

Linen ties work very well with lighter shades like pastels and chambrays, which in turn pair beautifully with those popular lighter-colored summer suits. Our other picks have been pretty conservative so far but the Bonobos linen necktie is perfect for heralding the warmer seasons with a much-needed splash of springy color.

Bonobos makes its ties in the United States, and this one is hand-stitched from fine Italian linen. The matte texture and light weight of linen give this necktie a visual character and hand-feel all its own. The pink and blue plaid is the perfect complement to a light-colored cotton, linen, or tropical wool summer suit in light gray, tan, cream, and other cool shades.

A linen tie like this is definitely a more casual choice due to its lighter color and the draping properties of the material, so my advice is to keep the width medium to slim but well out of "skinny" territory. The Bonobos linen necktie hits the mark perfectly at exactly three inches wide.

With a lighter fabric like this, a little extra width also allows you to form a more substantial knot, such as a half-Windsor, without being restricted to the standard four-in-hand.

Pros: The cotton/linen fabric is airy and breathable while offering sufficient weight for a proper knot and drape, the light raspberry pastel color is perfect for summer suits, and it's hand-stitched in America of Italian-made fabric

Cons: The lighter pastel color and linen fabric won't pair as well with darker suits

The best tie for fall and winter

The American Woolen Company tie is the perfect accessory when autumn rolls in and you want to keep the chills out. 

In style terms, there's really no reason you can't wear your staple silk and cotton neckties during fall and winter. But because the colder, wetter weather is the perfect excuse to bust out the tweed suits and darker earth tones, it can't hurt to have a few wool ties in your rotation. Wool ties and jackets are a match made in menswear heaven.

Wool neckties are often associated with tweed, herringbone, corduroy, and other such menswear elements that find their heritage in the English countryside. These regional styles have proliferated globally in recent years, due in no small part to the internet and online retail, with this rustic country aesthetic is becoming increasingly popular in the United States.

Wool provides some extra warmth in the cooler months but is actually quite breathable, and the warmer earth tones and unique texture of wool are also perfect for the season. Our pick for a great wool tie for fall and winter is this charcoal plaid piece from American Woolen Company

Hailing from the United States, this necktie is hand-stitched by American Trench in New York using 100% wool fabrics sourced by American Woolen Company in Connecticut. Some high-end ties are made from cashmere, but this is a delicate fabric that can be a hassle to clean and care for, so we don't recommend it for your first wool tie. The American Woolen Company necktie, by contrast, won't pill, wrinkle, or tear as easily as cashmere, yet still features a nice soft hand.

Match this charcoal tie with pretty much any suit you'd feel comfortable wearing with a plaid tie and black shoes. Weaves like herringbone and tweed also complement a wool tie beautifully because the thicker fabrics of the jacket and tie create an interesting visual texture.

Care for it just as you would your other neckwear, and the American Woolen Company tie will be your cold-weather companion for years to come.

Pros: The thick American-spun wool provides substantial body and a nice drape, it's hand-stitched in the United States, it offers extra warmth while remaining breathable, it's more durable (and less expensive) than cashmere, the fabric's visual texture and earth tones are perfect for cool-weather suits, and it's an unbeatable value

Cons: Wool is a slightly more delicate fabric than silk

Things to look for in a high-quality tie

Your preferred style of tie is largely subjective, but quality is not, and there are a few construction details you need to nail down when shopping for a tie:

• Fabric: The first consideration is your choice of fabric. The most commonly used neckwear material is silk, owing to its attractive appearance, flexibility, and durability. Most quality tie silk comes from Italy and England. Cotton and wool are also popular choices, particularly for knit and grenadine ties, with these chunkier weaves lending extra visual texture and a thicker body to the fabric. Linen and cotton (and blends of these) are perfect for lightweight warm weather neckties as well.
• Bias cut: Quality ties should always be cut "on the bias," meaning that the tie-maker cuts the fabric diagonally so that the threads are woven at a 45-degree angle relative to the edge of the cloth. This is more costly, as it requires more material to be used, but the result is a necktie that drapes nicely and won't become distorted sideways. A bias cut tie should only ever stretch or flex downwards when pulled. This "pull test" is a quick way to determine if a fabric has been cut on the bias.
• Stitching: The best neckties are hand-stitched, whereas most cheap store-bought ties are stitched on a machine. Hand-stitching ensures that the thread holding the shell together is not too tight. This allows the tie to flex and move properly without tearing. Machine stitching will not move or hold up as well. Good tie-makers also use good materials for their stitches — usually silk or special bonded nylon — and a hand-stitched tie will almost always feature a single horizontal stitch, called a "bar tack," on the back of the tie.
• Thickness: The material that forms the shell of the tie is typically folded over an interlining three times and then stitched together. An increasing number of ties boast larger fold counts, but this is not a marker of higher quality. In fact, it could mean that the material used is cheap and that the tie lacks an interlining, meaning it will not drape or form a knot as nicely. Wool or cotton interlinings are preferred, whereas cheaper ties generally use inferior polyester interlinings.

This is a very short crash-course through the larger world of quality tie-making, but it's a sufficient launching point for you to begin leveling up your suit game.

One final thing worth mentioning is necktie care. It's pointless to buy quality ties and not know how to store and clean them properly. This guide recommends cedar tie racks for closet storage rather than rolling and placing them in a drawer, which can cause the fabric to warp.

If your tie gets dirty, blot the fabric, do not scrub or soak it. Failing that, take it to a professional cleaner. Finally, never iron your ties. If they get wrinkly, hang them up and let the wrinkles work themselves out. Wrinkles are generally caused by tying the knot too tightly, so avoid that as well.

• Toaster ovens serve as a miniature version of the traditional oven, and they offer an array of functions, including broiling, roasting, toasting, and convection cooking.
• Even if you have a large kitchen, a toaster oven is useful for the heavy-cooking holidays, such as Thanksgiving when you need to cook and warm several dishes at different temperatures at the same time.
• The Cuisinart Chef's Convection Toaster Oven is the best toaster oven you can buy because it's easy to use, heats quickly, bakes evenly, and comes with all the accessories you need, including a pizza stone.

Living in environmentally-conscious times, it may feel like a waste heating up a full-size oven just to make a small meal. And, if you have a small kitchen, a traditional oven may not be an option. This is where toaster ovens can help you save on space and utility bills.

Even if you have a large kitchen, a toaster oven is useful for the heavy-cooking holidays, such as Thanksgiving when you need to cook and warm several dishes at different temperatures at the same time. Because, despite the word "toaster" in its name, these are really full-fledged countertop ovens.

There are almost as many heating options available as there are brands. When buying a toaster oven, you also want to consider how much space you will have. Most models will fit between your counter and the bottom of your cabinets. If space is at a premium in your dwelling, be sure to pay special attention to the dimensions of the toaster ovens you are interested in.

We examined the ratings and reviews of hundreds of top users and experts to see which toaster ovens offer the best value for your money, do what they say they can do, and perform consistently. Read on to learn all about our top picks.

Here are the best toaster ovens you can buy:

• Best toaster oven overall: Cuisinart Chef's Convection Toaster Oven
• Best small toaster oven: Breville Mini Smart Oven
• Best convection toaster oven: Calphalon Quartz Heat Countertop Oven
• Best budget toaster oven: Oster Digital Convection Toaster Oven
• Best infrared toaster oven: Panasonic Flash Xpress Toaster Oven
• Best toaster oven for cooking: Breville Compact Smart Oven

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

The best toaster oven overall

The Cuisinart Chef's Convection Toaster Oven bakes evenly, is easy to use, and comes with all the pans you need to get baking.

Cuisinart's Chef's Convection Toaster Oven is the best toaster oven we've tested. Not only is it easy to use, it also bakes evenly, has plenty of settings, and comes with helpful accessories like a pizza stone, two baking racks, and two baking pans.

With its 0.95-cubic-foot capacity, the oven can hold a 13-inch pizza, a 9-by-13-inch baking pan, a whole chicken, and nine slices of bread. Even though it holds a lot, the toaster oven itself isn't terribly huge. It measures 21 by 17 by 11 inches in size, plus, it looks good in any kitchen, thanks to its brushed stainless steel finish.

The Chef's Toaster Oven has 15 cooking functions, including several helpful pre-sets for foods you'll make a lot like toast, pizza, and sandwiches. It also has a speed convection setting for when you want to get cooking really fast. The 1800 watt oven heats up very quickly and Cuisinart's Exact Heat sensor ensures that the temperature is accurate.

We never had to wait very long for it to reach baking temperatures of 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and it toasts bread perfectly in a matter of minutes. We used the toaster oven to bake pain aux raisin, cuernitos, homemade pizza, and cinnamon rolls. We also warmed up French onion soup, broiled fish, and cooked meals in it for a month to really put it through the test, and it passed with flying colors.

The interior light makes it easy to see what's going on inside behind the big glass door, so you can monitor the progress of your toast, pizza, croissants, or what have you. We found the light particularly helpful when we were still learning the oven's settings.

The baking rack automatically slides out when you open the door, making it easy to pull out your hot baked goods. The interior was easy to clean, too, because of the pull-out crumb tray. All these little features add up to make a great toaster oven that's easy to use. 

We're not the only ones that recommend the Chef's Convection Toaster Oven. The Wirecutter recommends this oven as the best large toaster oven. Good Housekeeping tested an older model of this oven and gave it high marks. Techlicious also gave an older version of this oven a great review.

Buyers on Bed Bath & Beyond as well as Amazon rate it highly, and it's won an Amazon's Choice Award. There have been some reports of the door failing over time, some say the labels rub off the buttons, and others complain that it gets hot to the touch.

However, Cuisinart does warn that the sides will heat up and you should remove any meltable objects from the top and sides before you begin baking. The oven comes with a three-year warranty, too, so if you do run into any problems, contact Cuisinart for a replacement. — Malarie Gokey

Pros: Comes with pizza stone and pans, easy to use, bakes evenly, lots of settings

Cons: A bit pricey takes up counter space

The best small toaster oven

The Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Oven with Element IQ has the power of a traditional oven with faster pre-heat times and a smaller footprint in your kitchen.

The main feature that sets the Breville Mini Smart Oven apart is its use of Element IQ variable power distribution. It works like this: Food is cooked more quickly and evenly using the power of four individual quartz heating elements. This distributes heat throughout the appliance where it is needed. The oven adjusts the wattage of the heating elements up to 1,800 watts for flexible cooking based on the heating menu options you choose. The pre-set menu options include toast, bake, broil, roast, cookies, reheat, pizza, and bagel.

With dimensions of 16 by 13 by 9 inches, the Breville Mini Smart Oven is the smallest toaster oven Breville makes, and it can fit four slices of toast or an 11-inch pizza inside. Among the many features that make the unit easy to clean are the removable pull-out crumb tray. You should change it often to ensure the device doesn't malfunction, as most toaster ovens are designed to stop functioning when crumbs build up to an unsafe level.

Expert reviews of the Breville Mini Smart Oven were almost all positive. Compact Appliance rated it highly for its basic functions as well as the sleek, stainless steel design. The reviewer found the "Smart" term in the name of the device to be a bit misleading because there is no special Wi-Fi functionality. Amy Says Cook performed an in-depth review and found this toaster oven preheats quickly and allows for total cooking control. Time 4 Toast, which exclusively reviews toaster ovens, recommended this model despite the high price because of the Element IQ technology.

The Breville Mini Smart Oven has more than 1,600 5-star reviews on Amazon. Buyers report that this toaster oven is durable and performs just as well if not better than traditional ovens. The biggest complaints are that the buzzer is extremely loud and that the handle to the oven door sticks out too far.

Pros: Durable, easy to clean, broad array of cooking functions

Cons: No convection feature, loud

The best convection toaster oven

The Calphalon Quartz Heat Countertop Oven heats quickly and evenly, has an easy-to-read screen, and comes with a nice range of accessories.

Whether you live in a small space that doesn't allow for a traditional oven, or you're in need of a countertop oven that can help you handle the frenzy of holiday cooking, the Calphalon Quartz Heat Countertop oven is an option well worth considering. This oven features a quartz heating element that allows for more even heating and cooking.

I put this countertop oven to the test to see if it lived up to the promise of fast, precise cooking. During the Thanksgiving holiday, I put it through the paces, and I was pleased with the results. It preheated quickly, and everything we cooked — including a corn casserole and roasted cherry tomatoes — came out perfectly.

The best part is that we had another oven to use for cooking sides while our main oven was busy cooking the turkey for dinner. If you enjoy entertaining, or simply need additional oven space, a countertop oven is a great thing to have in your arsenal of kitchen appliances.

I would also recommend this for those who have a smaller living space or kitchen that may not support a full-sized oven. It can handle all the jobs a traditional oven can, plus it doubles as a toaster. Along with the toast function, ten other cooking functions are available: Bagel, Pizza, Bake, Broil, Roast, Defrost, Reheat, Warm, Cookies, and Dehydrate. It also has a turbo convection setting to crisp up food.

Its larger capacity allows it to cook larger dishes than smaller toaster ovens, but you'll want to measure your countertop space to ensure a good fit. We had no issue fitting this onto our countertop, and while we likely won't leave it out all the time, it does blend in well with the rest of our appliances thanks to the sleek, dark stainless steel design.

In addition to having a wide range of cooking functions and a bright, easy to read LCD screen, this countertop oven features a light so you can easily check on your culinary masterpiece — or your piece of toast. Either way, it's another useful feature to help ensure the cooking process goes smoothly.

I also liked that the oven comes with all the accessories you need to get started, including a wire rack, a baking sheet, a 12-inch pizza pan, and a dehydrator rack. The oven itself is easy to use thanks to the clearly labeled knobs and LCD screen that shows you the temperature setting, cooking function, and time if you choose to use the timer.

I'm not the only one who had great results using the Calphalon Quartz Heat Countertop Oven. This appliance has received highly rated reviews on Amazon and is considered an Amazon's Choice product. Some reviewers do complain about the high price, and others wish the power cord was a bit longer. Overall though, most love how quickly it heats, how well it cooks, and the multiple settings available. — Kylie Joyner

Pros: Preheats quickly, features quartz element for even heating, easy to read LCD display, 11 different cooking functions, comes with cooking accessories

Cons: On the expensive side, short power cord

The best budget toaster oven

Even if you are on a tight budget, you can take advantage of the roominess of the Oster Large Capacity Digital Convection Toaster Oven.

The Oster Toaster Oven is the only toaster oven that costs less than $100 to make our list. What sets it apart is the smooth electronic control panel that operates much like a built-in microwave oven. With dimensions of 19.5 by 14 by 11 inches, it does take up a fair amount of counter space, but it also fits a 9 by 13-inch casserole dish or baking pan. You can use this model to toast six bread slices or bake a 12-inch pizza.

The cooking functions included in the Oster oven include defrost, toast, convection bake, warm, pizza, bake, and broil, which runs at any temperature for proper melting and browning.

The Oster Toaster Oven was reviewed by a number of experts. Good Housekeeping liked it because of the consistent and even toasting as well as the convection cooking abilities. However, the reviewers found it cooked slowly and emitted excessive heat. Top Ten Reviews noted that this Oster model has an outstanding touchpad that is ideal for people who have trouble turning knobs. And, the Best Toaster Oven Reviews liked that the oven features an interior light and large capacity.

At the time of writing, the Oster oven had more 2,500 5-star reviews on Amazon. Buyers enjoy this unit because it holds an accurate temperature and runs quietly. Others found it had completely replaced their full-sized oven. The only complaint we could find is that there may have been a manufacturing defect at some point since some buyers found the handle got extremely hot and required a potholder to open.

Pros: Easy-to-clean, dishwasher safe accessories, completely digital touchpad

Cons: Takes up a lot of space

The best infrared toaster oven

If you want to evenly cook small meals in a hurry using infrared heating technology, the Panasonic NB-G110P Flash Xpress Toaster Oven will not disappoint.

The Panasonic NB-G110P Flash Xpress is unique because it uses double infrared heating. Unlike other toaster ovens that need to pre-heat for a few minutes, infrared heating elements bring the oven to temperature immediately. The infrared baking element penetrates inside the food, while the front element efficiently cooks the outside. This model has five shades of browning to pick from and six pre-programmed auto-cook modes, including frozen waffles, frozen hash browns, frozen pizza, reheating rolls, toast, and quick reheat.

The Flash Xpress comes with a square inner tray, baking tray, and removable crumb tray. And, it has an interior light so you can monitor the progress of your meal. The interior is large enough to accommodate four pieces of bread or pizzas up to 9-inches in diameter.

CNET performed an in-depth test of the Panasonic NB-G110P Flash Xpress. The reviewer liked that it employs infrared heating, which allows it to cook faster than other models, and the presets functioned like they should. Consumer Search also gave it high marks for achieving convection-quality cooking without using convection and cited a field test that put it on par with other convection toaster ovens. Amy Says Cook recommended the Panasonic toaster oven for retired people, singles, college students, and couples without kids for toasting, heating leftovers, and cooking frozen foods. Each of the reviews mentioned that the unit seemed inordinately small.

The Panasonic Flash Xpress has more than 2,800 reviews on Amazon, and 83% of them are four stars or higher. Users found that it does a good job of cooking what it can cook. For instance, the toaster oven was not designed for baking cakes or pies, and it apparently will not bake a chicken. But, it does an excellent job of reheating leftover pizza without burning it. Also, buyers report that cleaning it up is simple.

Pros: Uses infrared heating technology for even cooking

Cons: Quite small and has limited functionality

The best toaster oven for cooking anything

The Breville BOV650XL the Compact Smart Oven Stainless Steel has a lot of the same features as our top pick, only it is much roomier and can do more than just toasting.

At around $180, the Breville Compact Smart Oven and the Cuisinart toaster oven are the two most expensive options on our list. This model is similar to the Breville BOV450XL. It uses Element IQ technology for even heating, has eight preset programs, features 1,800 watts of power, and has a pull-out crumb tray. The BOV650XL has an interior that is 33% larger, coming in at 0.6 cubic feet versus 0.45 cubic feet. It can also handle a 12-inch pizza, versus the 11-inch pizza you can make with the BOV450XL.

The Breville Compact Smart Oven is further down our list because we liked the compact design of the Mini Oven better. If you want a larger Breville toaster oven, you might consider the company's largest option, the BOV800XL, which holds six slices of bread, a 13-inch pizza, and will still fit under most cabinets because it's 16.25 inches high.

Good Housekeeping, Consumer Search, and The Best Toaster Oven Reviews all give the Breville Compact Smart Oven fairly positive reviews. Good Housekeeping puts a lot of emphasis on the toasting abilities of toaster ovens, and the reviewers found this model toasts consistently and quickly and liked that it had seven toast settings. Consumer Search liked the smart heating elements and one-touch cooking. And, The Best Toaster Oven Reviews found it was a good compact alternative to the BOV800XL, Breville's largest toaster oven model.

About two-thirds of the reviewers on Amazon gave the Breville BOV650XL five stars. Amazon Buyers give this appliance high marks for its even heating and toasting abilities. Buyers had mixed reviews when it comes to other heating functions of the device. Some were impressed with how it baked, broiled, and roasted. Others found this oven to be overpriced for how well it baked.

Insider Picks Guides Editor has a different opinion, however. In his experience with countertop ovens, he finds the Breville Compact Smart Oven to be the best overall and is worth the price. He has an older version of the BOV800XL, which he purchased more than five years ago, yet it's still going strong. Since he added it to his kitchen, he has stopped using his regular conventional oven, making everything from salmon and banana nut bread to pizza and even a whole small chicken. The temperature is close to accurate and food cooks evenly. He finds it to be a versatile oven that happens to make great toast. It does everything that our overall pick can, but Breville's build quality and customer service are top-notch.

Pros: Great at toasting bread, comes with a heavy-duty broiling pan, can cook a variety of foods, broiler function

Cons: Expensive, hard to clean

Check out our other buying guides for small appliances

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• Best overall: Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine 
• Best machine under $100: De'Longhi EC155 15 BAR Pump Espresso Maker
• Best pod machine: Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Maker
• Best machine if money is no object: Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
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When selecting a blender for your kitchen, you're going to want one that's powerful enough to do whatever job you need, whether it's creating a simple smoothie or crushing ice. Here are our picks for the best blenders you can buy:

• Best blender overall: Calphalon Auto-Speed Blender
• Best budget blender: KitchenAid 5-Speed Blender
• Best blender for $100: Ninja Professional Blender BL660
• Best commercial-grade blender: Vitamix 750
• Best vacuum blender: Breville Super Q Blender and Vac Q attachment
• Best personal blender: Breville Boss to Go Sport

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• Best juicer overall: Hurom HP Slow Juicer
• Best budget juicer: Hamilton Beach 67650A Juicer
• Best centrifugal juicer: Breville JE98XL Juice Fountain Plus
• Best high-end juicer: Hurom's H-AI Slow Juicer
• Best citrus juicer: Hurom Citrus Juicer