Quantcast
Channel: Business Insider
Viewing all 115236 articles
Browse latest View live

How to copy and paste text on a PS4 in 2 different ways

0
0

ps4 controller

The PlayStation 4 is not only a gaming console, but it also offers a social feature allowing you to communicate with your online friends through text chat. 

While a controller is not as convenient to use when texting like a touchscreen or even a keyboard, Sony has programmed the DualShock 4 controller to function somewhat like a mouse and keyboard or touchscreen, allowing users to copy and paste their text into a text box. 

You can also connect a keyboard and mouse to your PS4 to help you type more smoothly. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

PlayStation 4 (From $299.99 at Best Buy)

DualShock 4 Wireless Controller (From $64.99 at Best Buy)

HORI Programmable KeyPad and Mouse Controller (From $136.54 at Amazon)

How to copy and paste on a PS4

1. Boot up your PS4 gaming console. 

2. Open up something on the console that uses text, then place the cursor at the start of the text you want to copy, and then press the Options button (...) on the text box under the Space bar.

Copy_and_paste_on_PS4_Image_1

3. Choose "Select" or "Select All." If you choose "Select," the next step you will need to do is move the cursor to the end of the text you want to copy, and then press the cross (X) button on your DualShock 4 controller. 

Copy_and_paste_on_PS4_image_2

4. Then select "Copy."

5. Click on the "Options" (....) again in the text box then select "Paste" to move the text you copied.

6. Select "Paste" and the text you copied should appear in the text box.

 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

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

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Apple just released iOS 13.2 with 60 new emoji and emoji variations. Here's how everyday people submit their own emoji.


I spent a night in a swanky hotel-apartment hybrid rented out by Sonder, the $1 billion startup disrupting the hospitality industry. Here are 6 ways it was different from a typical Airbnb stay.

0
0

sonder apartment nyc

Sonder is a $1 billion hospitality startup that claims to offer the best parts of hotels and private-home stays in its apartment rentals.

It's one of several new hybrid companies like Lyric and Blueground that combine elements of hotels and apartment rentals. Though it's been compared to Airbnb, Sonder leases and manages its own rentals, which are licensed as hotels. Airbnb, on the other hand, is mainly made up of individuals renting out their homes.

Sonder's 9,000 rental apartments can be found in cities such as New York, San Diego, Austin, Miami, New Orleans, London, Dubai, and Washington, DC.

I recently stayed in one of Sonder's apartments in New York City. Here's how it was different from staying in a typical Airbnb.

SEE ALSO: A new hospitality company claims to combine the best parts of hotels and apartments. I spent the night in one of their NYC units — here's why I think it's going to change the way people travel.

DON'T MISS: How to book an apartment on Sonder, the $1 billion company that combines hotel service with the feel of a private home

1. The check-in process was more straightforward and secure than I've experienced in many Airbnbs.

While checking in to someone's home on Airbnb can sometimes entail fiddling with a lockbox or coordinating a time with the host, I didn't have to specify a time to check in to my Sonder apartment.

The process also seemed quite secure. When I arrived, a Sonder concierge by the elevators checked my name on a list and checked my ID and that of my companion.

Each time I left the building and came back — such as when I went out to dinner and stepped out to grab bagels the next morning — the Sonder concierge checked both of our IDs before letting us into the Sonder elevator.

However, not everyone has had a consistently secure experience in the building. Days before my stay, a group of armed robbers broke into a Sonder apartment in the same building — despite the ID check and Sonder's "no parties" rule. Sonder did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the incident.



2. My Sonder rental had its own separate elevator bank.

One of the best features of the Sonder I stayed in was that it had separate elevators so that short-term guests don't have to bother permanent residents.

But residents of the building I stayed in told a CBS New York reporter, Reena Roy, after the recent robbery that despite the separate elevator banks, there was sometimes a disconnect when it comes to enforcement.



3. I didn't feel like I was staying in someone's home.

For me, this was a plus. While I appreciate Airbnbs that feel homey, it can be kind of weird to see family photos on the wall or a stranger's clothes hanging in the closet.

But the Sonder still felt cozy and more personal than staying in a hotel, especially with small touches like Brooklyn-made chocolate bars and a handwritten note with suggestions for places to check out in the neighborhood.



4. The apartment was cleaned to the standards of a hotel.

I've stayed in Airbnbs that had funky smells in the carpet or bedding and subpar cleanliness. But my Sonder apartment was spotless.

The bathroom, with its neatly folded, pristine white towels and designer toiletries, felt especially hotel-like.



5. I had access to Sonder-specific amenities such as a lounge, a game room, and a movie theater.

While most hotels offer some form of a fitness center and a business center, in Airbnbs I've stayed at in apartment buildings I have not been given access to the building's amenities for residents.

But in my Sonder, I had access to amenities set aside specifically for Sonder guests, including a lounge, a game room, a movie theater, and a coworking space, as well as the New York Sports Club fitness center next door.



6. My Sonder's building had an "essentials closet" where I could grab things like extra toilet paper, olive oil, or anything else I needed.

The building I stayed in had an "essentials closet" on the floor below me, where guests could come and grab anything from extra laundry pods, toilet paper, and towels to mini bottles of olive oil — all free of charge.

Sonder apartments aren't cleaned and restocked every day like hotel rooms are, but this seemed like a straightforward way to let guests grab whatever they need, whenever they need it.

After my stay in a Sonder apartment, it was clear to me that the things that differentiate it from Airbnbs are the things that add to its appeal.



2 tech firms are using 3D printing to offer more affordable and efficient healthcare for all, from cheaper prosthetics to better neonatal care

0
0

FILE - This Feb. 16, 2017 file photo shows newborn babies in the nursery of a postpartum recovery center in upstate New York. According to a government report released Wednesday, May 15, 2019, U.S. birth rates reached record lows for women in their teens and 20s, leading to the fewest babies in 32 years. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

  • 3D printing has the ability to turn the manufacturing and healthcare worlds on their heads.
  • Companies pioneering 3D printing in medicine say that it saves significant time and money compared to traditional ways of making life-changing devices.
  • For example, Colorado-based Toughware Prosthetics, which has been creating affordable and accessible prosthetics for amputees for almost two decades, partnered with 3D-printing company Markforged to speed up the process for building prosthetics and decreased costs significantly.
  • Minneapolis-headquartered Protolabs also recently partnered with MedStar Health to develop a 3D-printed gravity feed syringe holder that can alleviate some of the work of nurses.
  • This article is part of our ongoing series on Better Capitalism.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Proponents of 3D printing say that it's a game changer. The technology has revolutionized industries as diverse as toy makers, tool manufacturers, and even food producers. Now, its latest frontier could likely be healthcare.

In contrast to traditional 'subtractive manufacturing' techniques — where an object is made by removing parts from a piece of raw material (think carving a wooden object or forging metal by pouring it into a mold) — 3D printing consists of manufacturers incrementally adding material layer by layer.   

Here's how two companies are leveraging this process to substantially improve upon current healthcare methods.  

Making prosthetics more accessible in the developing world

Bradley Veatch, the president and CEO of Colorado-based Toughware Prosthetics, has been creating affordable and accessible prosthetics for amputees for almost two decades. While technology enabled him to engineer high-functioning prosthetics, he ran into the same problem over and over again. "I had this device that was so expensive that there were probably 10 people in the United States that could afford the thing," Veatch said.

Toughware prosthetics

According to a 2011 report by the World Health Organization and World Bank, more than one billion people — that's 15% of the world's population — experience some form of disability, with one-fifth experiencing significant disabilities. Veatch's experiences taught him that this population needs more durable and accessible options. He moved into creating prosthetics for people in developing countries who rely heavily on physical activity in their daily lives.

Since 2017, Veatch has partnered with Massachusetts firm Markforged, which makes metal and carbon fibre 3D printers. He bought his first 3D printer to overcome the issue of individually manufacturing complex parts, which would often take up to six weeks. 

"I'm actually able to get a lot more done in a much more concentrated timeframe. I can produce an engineering design print and then begin running tests, sometimes even the same day. I can print what I need, when I need it, and continue with my iterative design process," he said.

3D printing keeps costs down for Toughware. One prototype bracket — part of the initial design for a piece which holds two objects together — was going to cost Veatch $65 to be machined out of aluminum, but cost only a few dollars when printed using his carbon fiber 3D printer.

"It was strong and just what I was looking for in the application — and it only took five hours to print," he explained.

Working with nurses to improve neonatal care and manufacture rapid solutions

In July of 2019, Minneapolis-headquartered Protolabs started partnering with neonatal intensive care unit nurses and biomedical engineers at MedStar Health to develop a 3D-printed gravity feed syringe holder to use at each incubator station caring for a premature baby.

Protolabs syringe blueprint

"Depending on the number of newborns, and how often they feed, nurses can spend hours each day holding a syringe above an incubator while milk or liquid formula drains into the baby via a stomach tube," said Protolabs' spokesperson Rachel Hunt.

After speaking with the experts who care for neonatal babies every day, the Protolabs team offered 3D-printing guidance. From there, the biomedical engineers were able to quickly vet and test their ideas within days, allowing them to quickly pivot or expand on solutions. 

Protolabs syringe holder

For this project, the end result was a compact device that can hold four different sizes of syringes. Each syringe holder was rapidly manufactured and returned to the hospital within the week. In terms of medical design, Hunt said that this is only the beginning.  

"Designers needing answers they can only get by having parts in hand can have them within a day. From a clinical standpoint, patient specific, customized devices benefit from the low volume production and complex geometries that 3D printing is able to manufacture," she added.

As for the future, Protolabs is looking to pioneer readily accessible lightweight parts for aerospace, complex geometries for patient-specific medical devices, and automotive parts printed as one assembly.

Protolabs syringe holder

There have been concerns that 3D printing could be used by bad actors, such as a person printing their own gun to get around licensing restrictions. But this generation of emerging tech companies is aiming to show that 3D printing is a force that can be used for good in solving some of society's greatest challenges — particularly when it comes to the care of our most vulnerable.

SEE ALSO: How $132 billion brewery giant AB InBev is using AI to fight corruption and spot business fraud around the globe

Join the conversation about this story »

How to log out of your Snapchat account using the app or desktop website

0
0

snapchat app iphone

Snapchat is a popular app that allows you to share pictures and short video clips with friends. Because it's designed to be used often like any other social media app, it keeps you logged in, even when the app is closed.

That said, it's easy to log out of Snapchat. This includes the actual iPhone and Android app, as well as the desktop website that lets you download your snapcode, purchase geofilters, and change your password.

Logging out of one device doesn't log you out of the other.

Here's how to log out of Snapchat, both on your phone and on the computer.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPhone 11 (From $699.99 at Best Buy)

Samsung Galaxy S10 (From $899.99 at Best Buy)

How to log out of Snapchat using the mobile app

1. Open the Snapchat app on your iPhone or Android phone.

2. Tap the icon in the top-left corner. If you've recently posted a story, it will be an image of what's on your story. If you have a Bitmoji connected, it'll be your Bitmoji. If you don't have either of those, it'll just be a generic icon of a person.

How to log out of Snapchat   1

3. Tap the Settings icon in the top-right corner. It looks like a gear.

How to log out of Snapchat   2

4. In the Settings list, scroll all the way down to the bottom and tap "Log Out."

How to log out of Snapchat   3

5. A dialog box will pop up asking if you're sure you want to log out. Tap the "Log Out" button.

How to log out of Snapchat on your computer

1. On the Account Management homepage of Snapchat's desktop site, click on the three bars in the top-right corner of the screen.

How to log out of Snapchat   5

2. A "Log Out" button will appear at the top of the page. Click on it — it'll log you out and return you to the login page.

How to log out of Snapchat   6

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

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

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: 8 weird robots NASA wants to send to space

21 things you should do the next time you book a hotel if you want to score the best deals

0
0

luxury hotel

  • Staying at a nice hotel doesn't have to break the bank.
  • Business Insider spoke to experts to find out simple strategies you can use to find the best hotel prices for your next trip.
  • The tips include booking at newly opened hotels, checking in near the end of the day, and bundling your flight and hotel.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

You don't have to overpay for a hotel room — there are tricks and tips you can use to find the best room rates so you can enjoy your trip guilt-free.

Business Insider spoke to industry professionals to get their best tips for booking a room, including Jeanette Pavini, a savings expert at Coupons.com, Josh Belkin, the vice president of Hotels.com's global brand, Cheryl Rosner, the founder of Stayful, and Ivy Chou, the former content and marketing director of DealsPlus.com.

Keep reading for their advice on when to book a hotel room and how to find hidden discounts to save money on your next vacation.

SEE ALSO: If you have the Amex Platinum or Business Platinum, you're eligible for premium-airfare discounts with more than 20 airlines

DON'T MISS: The 17 best hotels in the world, according to travelers

1. Look into business hotels.

According to Pavini, a savings expert at Coupons.com, business hotels can provide great deals, especially when traveling within Europe.

The reason is that business can often be slow during summer months and on weekends at hotels that cater to business travelers, which can lead to lower prices.



2. Ask for a corner room.

Pavini also recommends opting for a corner room, since you'll typically get more square footage for the same price.

If you're looking to upgrade to a corner room, Pavini suggests that you be discreet and avoid asking at times when there are several guests waiting to be assisted at the front desk.



3. Check in near the end of the day.

If you're hoping to snag an upgrade, checking in toward the end of the day might be your answer.

According to Pavini, since hotels have a better sense of occupancy by that point, they are more likely to offer upgrades that are still available.



4. Instead of calling the 800 reservation numbers, call the hotel directly.

The reason Pavini suggests doing this is because, often, people who are working directly at the property have a greater ability to upgrade you.

If you stay at a hotel regularly, keeping a friendly relationship with it and booking directly can also increase your perks.



5. Book within the cancellation period.

According to Rosner, the founder of Stayful, when it comes to hotels, sometimes waiting until the last minute can help you snag a better price tag.

Typically, a hotel's cancellation falls anywhere between 24 to 48 hours in advance, at which point rooms become available at lower rates.



6. Bundle your hotel and flight booking.

Belkin, the global vice president Hotels.com, recommends trying to bundle a flight purchase and hotel booking, as it can often lead to savings for both simultaneously.



7. Sign up for a hotel's loyalty programs.

"One of the best ways to receive free upgrades is to sign up for a loyalty program and stick to it," Pavini said.

Marriott's loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy, includes a best-rate guarantee for guests, free Wi-Fi on each trip, and access to exclusive events and experiences, among other things. Many programs also include free nights or free items with bookings.



8. Or opt to sign up for loyalty programs through booking websites.

While hotels directly offer loyalty programs, third-party booking sites do as well.

For example, loyalty members with Hotels.com can book 10 nights and get one for free. The 10 nights can be mixed and matched in different locations.



9. Sign up for alerts on price drops.

When you don't have the time to keep a close eye on prices, sign up for alerts through websites like Hotels.com and Kayak.

They'll take care of the work for you, emailing you when the prices start to drop while ensuring that they don't flood your inbox.



10. Check to see where prices are increasing and decreasing.

If you're not set on a particular destination, take a look at Hotels.com's Hotel Price Index, which provides information on where hotel prices are increasing and decreasing.

The results are based on bookings made on the website and prices paid by customers per room per night, including taxes and fees.



11. Tap into apps.

Apps can help you unlock a world of discounts.

Apps like Hotel Tonight can get you top-notch last-minute discounts on rooms, while loyalty members can access a secret prices section within the Hotels.com app to get rooms for $200 and under during peak times, like weekends.



12. Book a room at a new property.

Pavini also recommends booking a room at a newly opened hotel, since this can sometimes lead to lower rates. The hotel will be looking to increase business and get the word out, which can often lead to the ability to snag upgrades, according to Pavini.



13. Use coupon codes.

Coupons might not be the first thing you think about when looking to book a room, but websites like Coupons.com and DealsPlus.com have entire sections of coupon codes for travelers.

These include discounts on hotel stays in various destinations and on flights.



14. Mention when it's a special occasion.

Whether it's your birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or first time at a hotel, it never hurts to mention that you're there celebrating a special time.

Sometimes, it can lead to upgrades or amenity kits that help make your stay all the more special.



15. Follow the rule of opposites.

Rosner recommends going with "the opposites" — booking when the majority would not book.

Rosner mentioned that hotels in business districts can offer great deals during the weekend, while resort areas should be booked midweek for the best savings.



16. Look for reciprocal opportunities for earning points.

Hotels work with various companies to offer guests the chance to earn points.

For example, Starwood Preferred Guests can earn points when using Uber during their stay, and Marriott guests can earn points for shopping for flowers, gifts, and wines on select websites.



17. Refer your friends.

Hotels like referrals that bring in new business, and often reward guests for it.

Marriott will give guests up to 50,000 bonus points for referrals, and 10,000 bonus points for free for referred friends.

Similarly, websites like Stayful offer $25 off each time you refer a friend.



18. Book a secret hotel.

Secret hotel rooms are essentially rooms that are being sold at a reduced price from hotels that don't want the rooms left empty.

You won't know which hotel you're booking the room in upfront, but savings can often be as much as 20% to 50% off the original listed price.

Examples include LastMinute.com's Top Secret Hotels section and Hotwire's secret rates.



19. See what perks your credit card offers.

Chou suggests checking what your credit card can provide, in addition to enrolling in hotel rewards programs. Most credit cards like Discover and Capital One Venture offer travelers everything from cashback to bonus points or miles.



20. Use membership programs and special offers.

According to Chou, members of programs like AAA, AARP, ADP, and even the American Bar Association can access special discounts.

This can include 25% off bookings, free activity vouchers, and up to $100 off Disneyland Resort hotels.



21. Follow up if there are any problems with your stay.

Often, issues like noisy neighbors or a messy room can ruin your hotel experience. If this happens, Pavini urges you to speak up. "It could be an upgrade for the rest of your stay, a credit to your account, or drink vouchers for the bar," he told Business Insider.

Talia Avakian contributed to an earlier version of this article.



How to reopen a closed tab in Safari on a Mac computer in 2 different ways

0
0

macbook pro wwdc

It's easy to accidentally close a tab in Safari on your Mac

But fear not: You can also reopen your closed tabs very easily in Safari. 

Here are two ways you can do this.

Check out the products mentioned in this article: 

MacBook Pro (From $1,299.99 at Best Buy)

How to reopen a closed tab on a Mac in Safari using keyboard shortcuts

You can use the keyboard shortcut Shift + Command + T to reopen your last closed tab. This works no matter what you have open in your browser.

You can also reopen a closed tab with the keyboard shortcut Command + Z. This makes the last closed tab reappear in the same spot where it last was among your open tabs. 

A caveat about Command + Z, however: This can also undo your last action in a document or spreadsheet. If you use this command while you're in a Google doc, for instance, it will undo the last edit you made and not reopen a tab in your browser. Click into a regular web page before you use the Command + Z option. If you mistakenly click on Command + Z in a doc, Command + Y will redo your last edit.

How to reopen a closed tab on a Mac in Safari using menu options

Some people prefer menu navigation over keyboard shortcuts. It's easy to access the command to reopen the last tab from the Safari menu.

1. For this example, we started with two tabs open.

2. After closing one tab, click on History in the Safari menu at the top of your screen (not the top of the browser window).

2 How to reopen a closed tab in Safari on Mac

3. Select Reopen Last Closed Tab from the drop-down menu. Once you click on this, your last-closed tab will reappear in the same position it was in before you closed it. Notice that this menu also gives you the keyboard shortcut, in case you need it. 

3 How to reopen a closed tab in Safari on Mac

The History menu also gives you a handy list of your recently closed tabs right in the menu, with the last-closed tab at the top. You can choose the tab you want to reopen from the menu. You can also select Recently Closed from the menu, for a longer list, or look at tabs you viewed on a different day by selecting one of the date options at the bottom of the History menu.

 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best MacBooks you can buy

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Apple just revealed its AirPods Pro for $249, which feature noise cancellation. Here's everything that was wrong with the $159 pair of the wireless headphones.

How to turn off your location on Facebook while using an Android device

0
0

Facebook app

Many apps will use your personal data — including your phone contacts or location — to help improve your experience using the app itself. 

Facebook is no exception to this, and uses your information to influence ads, tags in posts, and more. However, it's perfectly reasonable to not want Facebook or other apps to use your information in such a way — especially your location. 

Here's how to disable location sharing with Facebook on an Android device. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

Samsung Galaxy S10 (From $899.99 at Best Buy)

How to turn off your location on Facebook for Android

1. Open the Facebook app on your Android device and sign in if prompted.

2. Tap on the button that resembles three horizontal lines, located on the top left of the screen, to open the navigation menu.

3. Tap on "Settings & Privacy." A drop-down menu will appear. Tap "Settings" on the drop-down menu.

12 13_How_to_turn_off_location_on_Facebook_Android_ _1

4. In the Settings menu, scroll until you find the sub header "Location" and tap it.

5. Tap "Location Access."

6. On the next screen, there will be two main points of interest: "Location Services" and "Background Location." If you just want to turn off your Background Location, but not all of your Location Services, simply tap the blue slider next to "Background Location" so that it turns white and gray.

12 13_How_to_turn_off_location_on_Facebook_Android_ _2

7. If you want to turn off your location for all of Facebook's app settings, tap on "Location Services" to open Facebook's app info screen.

8. Scroll down until you find "Permissions," then tap it.

9. Tap the green slider next to "Location" so that it turns white and gray.

12 13_How_to_turn_off_location_on_Facebook_Android_ _3

Your location should now be fully disabled for your Facebook account.

 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best budget smartphones

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Apple just released iOS 13.2 with 60 new emoji and emoji variations. Here's how everyday people submit their own emoji.

The best weighted blankets

0
0
  • Weighted blankets provide an evenly distributed amount of pressure and steady sensory input that help ease anxiety and stress, allowing you to sleep better.
  • Our top pick is the Gravity Blanket because it is a premium-grade, therapeutic weighted blanket that helps improve sleep and reduce anxiety.

If you've spent countless sleepless nights tossing and turning, it might be time to try a weighted blanket. These cozy therapeutic blankets may look and feel like a normal comforter, but instead of being filled with lightweight down feathers or cotton, they are stuffed with anywhere from 5 to 25 pounds of glass beads or plastic pellets.

The constant pressure provided by the weights helps produce a hug-like sensation that stimulates the production of serotonin and dopamine, the naturally occurring chemicals our bodies use to feel calm, relaxed, and happy. Your body then converts these chemicals into melatonin, which makes you sleepy.

Studies have shown the soothing effect caused by weighted blankets can help both children and adults who suffer from anxiety, depression, insomnia, autism, and ADHD. But they are just as useful for anyone who just wants to fall asleep faster and sleep better throughout the night.

The benefits of a weighted blanket are not limited to sleeping at nighttime either. You can snuggle up in the blanket any time you are feeling anxious or stressed throughout the day or when you just need to feel the comfort of a hug.

Here at Insider Picks, we take our sleep seriously. That's why we've done the research and trawled through hundreds of buyer and expert reviews to find the best weighted blankets you can buy. Whether you are in the market for a hypoallergenic option or one that keeps you cool throughout the night, these weighted blankets will help you sleep soundly.

Here are the best weighted blankets you can buy:

Updated on 12/17/2019 by Caitlin Petreycik: Updated links, formatting, and prices.

The best weighted blanket overall

The Gravity Blanket uses deep touch pressure stimulation to help you relax and sleep better.

What started out as a Kickstarter campaign has quickly become one of the most popular weighted blankets available. The Gravity Blanket is a high-quality therapeutic blanket that comes in three different weights, ranging from 15 to 25 pounds. It measures at 72 by 48 inches making it the perfect size to ground one person at a time.

The blanket features gridded stitching that ensures the blanket's internal weighted beads are distributed evenly throughout each use. Each blanket also comes with a super-soft, removable micro-fiber duvet cover that comes in three colors: galaxy blue, moon ivory, and space gray. Both the blanket and duvet cover are machine washable and super cozy.

Business Insider tech reporter Avery Hartmans is a huge fan of the weighted blanket, saying it helped her have "some of the best naps of my life." She said that it helped her fall asleep instantly every time she used it before adding, "the Gravity Blanket helps me feel calm, relaxed — and very, very sleepy."

Pros: Helps you fall asleep fast, super soft, removable duvet, machine-washable, three different weights to choose from

Cons: Expensive



The best cooling weighted blanket

The YnM Cooling Weighted Blanket is a high-quality weighted blanket that will keep you cool throughout the night.

Many weighted blankets are made with fuzzy fleece or microfiber fabrics that are very cozy but can cause you to overheat throughout the night. The YnM Cooling Weighted Blanket is made from a breathable, moisture-wicking 300-thread-count bamboo viscose fabric that will keep you cool all night long, making it the perfect option for people who get hot while they sleep.

The inside of the soft blanket is filled with thinner polyfill and premium glass beads. There are different weights to choose from. The blanket is machine washable and comes with a three-year warranty for free mending if unexpected damage occurs to your blanket.

While the YnM Cooling Weighted Blanket comes in a more breathable fabric, the rest of the blanket works the same way as the brand's original option that was tested by Insider Picks reporter, Mara Leighton. Mara had this to say about the blanket, "It has markedly improved the quality of my sleep, and it's something that has made me genuinely excited to climb into bed after a long day."

A few reviewers mentioned that they wished there was more of a variety of colors. The cooling version only comes in gray or teal, while the brand's original weighted blanket has 10 different colors to choose from.

Pros: Affordable, keeps you cool at night, moisture-wicking and breathable, good weight distribution

Cons: Pellets shift in their pockets, could use more color options

Read our full review of the YnM Weighted Blanket



The best hypoallergenic weighted blanket

If you have allergies or sensitivities towards certain fabrics and materials, opt for the hypoallergenic Good Knight Weighted Blanket.

The Good Knight Weighted Blanket is a quality-made hypoallergenic weighted blanket. It is made from 100% premium cotton and is weighed down with tiny, non-toxic, poly-pellets. You can also buy your blanket a separate duvet cover, which is made from 100% premium cotton as well.

The blanket comes in three different weights — 15, 17, and 20 pounds — and they all measure 60 by 80 inches. It comes in a sleek dark gray color that complements practically everything. Customer reviews note the blanket's soft, cozy material and strong stitching.

Pros: Hypoallergenic, made with 100% premium cotton and non-toxic pellets, soft and comfortable, helps you sleep faster

Cons: Duvet cover sold separately



The best dual-sided weighted blanket

The Calmforter Weighted Blanket is a super-soft weighted blanket that has different colors and textures on either side.

If you like to switch up the look of a room often, opt for the Calmforter Weighted Blanket. The therapeutic blanket comes with a removable fabric cover that features different colors on either side. The outer cover is soft and fuzzy, while the opposite side features unique SensaCool dot embellishments for sensory stimulation.

The blanket uses a weighting system filled with CloudSoft Polyfill, Stardust Minibeads, and 100% glass beads. It comes in both a 12-pound and 15-pound version. Both measure 60 by 80 inches. There are seven color options to choose from including blue/green, purple/gray, and brown/cream.

A buyer reviews did note that the inner weighted blanket can shift around if you don't secure it properly to the outer cover, so they suggested making sure the inner ties connecting the two are completely secure before using it.

Pros: Two colorways, super soft, helps you fall asleep quickly, has a textured side for sensory stimulation

Cons: Inner layer can shift if not properly secured



The best weighted blanket for kids

If your children are having trouble sleeping, try the Quility Premium Kids Weighted Blanket.

The ideal weight of a weighted blanket should be around 10% of your body weight plus one or two pounds. Since most weighted blankets start at 12 pounds and go up to 25 pounds, they are typically too heavy for children to use. But the Quility Premium Kids Weighted Blanket comes in four different weights ranging from 5 to 12 pounds, making it perfect for children (there are also heavier options for teens and adults).

The blankets are made with 100% breathable natural cotton and are filled with glass beads that stay evenly distributed in small pockets. Each blanket comes with a soft, removable duvet cover that is machine washable. The blanket's dimensions depend on which weight you choose and the measurements range from 36 by 48 inches to 60 by 80 inches.

A handful of customer reviews mentioned that the removable cover stained other items in the laundry. So be sure to clean it on its own, at least the first time you wash it.

Pros: Ideal weight for children, super soft removable cover, helps kids fall asleep faster and stay asleep, four different weights to choose from

Cons: Need to wash it on its own



Four more great weighted blankets we tested and recommend

My wife and I tried this 20-pound weighted blanket — it put me to sleep in minutes and helped ease her anxiety

A high-quality weighted blanket applies uniform pressure all over your body like a nice hug, doesn't bunch up, and helps soothe anxiety.

I like the Quility Premium Weighted Blanket because the weight is well distributed, the materials are breathable and keep me from overheating, and it helps me to fall asleep quickly.

When it came to coping with her anxiety, my wife said, "This blanket is everything." It helps her to stop fidgeting at night so she can sleep. She still has some nights where sleep is rough, but they are less frequent and pronounced when she uses the weighted blanket.

Based on how much it has helped my wife, I would strongly recommend this blanket to anyone looking for another weapon to add to their anxiety-fighting arsenal.

Buy the Quility Premium Weighted Blanket on Amazon starting at $43.09


This beautifully woven weighted blanket helped me sleep better at night — and it relieved my partner's restlessness

Who knew that the secret to a good night's sleep lay in gaining 20 pounds on my bed? No, that doesn't mean lounging in your pajamas while eating buckets full of cookie dough (though that sounds like it might do the trick, too). Instead, it means discovering the blanket that's been missing in your life.

Bearaby is a brand-new sleep brand with a flagship product called the Napper, a weighted blanket that has become the security blanket I never knew I needed. Available in six colors starting at $249, this elegant, cozy, cuddle-simulator may just be the best thing that's ever happened to my sleep cycle.

Buy The Napper Weighted Blanket starting at $249 from Bearaby (prices vary based on weight)


I slept under a 15-pound weighted blanket for a week — and it was the best sleep I've had in ages

Weighted blankets use deep-touch therapy — similar to the comfort created by swaddling babies — to create deeper, more restful sleep and ease anxiety, stress, and other health concerns naturally.

I've been sleeping under BlanQuil's 15 lb Weighted Blanket ($169) for more than a week, and I've had seven-plus nights of consistently great sleep. The BlanQuil comes in 15 - 20 lbs and the general rule of thumb is to order whatever is 10% of your body weight.

If you're in the market for better sleep, this is definitely worth taking a look at.

Buy the BlanQuil Quilted Weighted Blanket on Amazon for $169 - $249 (price varies by weight)


I've been sleeping with this weighted blanket for 6 months, and I've noticed a huge change in the quality of my sleep

No one should have to suffer through sleepless nights. If you're a light or anxious sleeper who wants to find an alternative to sleep medication, the weighted blanket is worth a shot. It worked for me.

I purchased the highly rated ZonLi weighted blanket on Amazon last December. It's well-priced and comes in a variety of sizes and weights. Right away I noticed a huge change in the quality of my sleep.

Buy the ZonLi Cool Weighted Blanket on Amazon (price vary by size and weight)



Check our other bedding buying guides

The best pillows for your bed

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.

While ultimately, there is no "best for everyone" pillow — personal preference plays a huge part in determining the pillow you'll like the most — we checked out all the top recommendations from consumer buying websites, listened to what pillow buyers had to say, and even tried out some of the pillows ourselves to bring you the five picks most likely to send you off to the land of Nod comfortably. Here are our top picks for the best pillows: 


The best duvet covers you can buy

Your cozy down-filled duvet needs a stylish cover to keep it clean and add some spice to your bedroom's décor.

We've rounded up the duvet covers likeliest to suit your style, your budget, and your needs. Here are the best duvet covers you can buy: 


The best mattresses you can buy

A great mattress can be the difference between a good night's sleep that results in a productive day or a horrible night that makes you feel like you didn't sleep at all. Here are our top picks for the best mattress you can buy:


The best mattress toppers you can buy

Although a mattress topper isn't a must-have for your bed, it's one of the easiest ways to up your sleep quality and comfort. We researched dozens of mattress toppers and determined that these are our favorites:


The best bed frames you can buy

Your bed is not only the highlight of your bedroom, it's the only piece of furniture you spend 33% of your life on. Here are our top picks for the best bed frame: 

 




The best men's slippers

0
0
  • With a fine pair of slippers on his feet, a man can relax around the house in comfort or step outside to grab the paper or some logs for the fire.
  • We considered insulation, materials, tread design, and more as we chose the best slippers.
  • The UGG Ascot Slippers are our top pick because they're warm, supportive, and long-lasting.

I've had the same pair of UGG slippers for six years now, and despite the fact that I wear them around the house almost daily during the winter (I even wore them away from home for a while, before I accepted the fact that slippers really don't belong beyond the property line), they remain in superlative condition. 

Before finding the UGG slippers, I had a pair of traditional backless clog-style slippers. I can't recall the brand, but I do remember quite clearly how nice it was to be able to step into them with ease. While you need to use your hands or spend a good twenty seconds of wiggling to get your feet into the UGGs and other similar shoe-like slippers, the clog variety slides right on. They also fall off much more easily, expose more of your foot to cold air, and offer minimal protection against the snow, ice, gravel, flora, and other such things you might encounter if you step outside.

The point, as you surely gather, is that a pair of slippers that might be perfect for one gentleman might be a poor pick for another man. In an era of slippers heated via microwave or USB connection and novelty slippers approximating the look of everything from a dinosaur's foot to Chewbacca's face, it can be hard to cut through the clutter and consider just a few fine options for warm, cozy leisure footwear. That's why we're here.

The five slippers in our guide all have at least two things in common: They will keep your feet warm and comfortable. Beyond that, each pair offers its own perks, no gimmicks involved.

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

Updated on 12/17/2019 by Jen Gushue: Updated "affordable slippers" picks, links, and formatting.

SEE ALSO: The best men's bathrobes

The best men's slippers overall

Thanks to a thick suede exterior and durable rubbers soles, a pair of UGG Men's Ascot Slippers will last you for years even if you wear them like a pair of normal shoes, and they're lined with soft, warm sheep's wool.

I've owned a pair of UGG Ascot slippers for six years. Years ago, I researched the men's slippers thoroughly before giving them a shot, and my frequent use has confirmed how durable and comfortable they really are.

It's hard to tell whether this is more of a shoe with a few slipper-like attributes or a slipper with some shoe-like qualities. They offer every bit as much heel impact absorption, arch support, bridge and toe protection, and even traction as many casual pairs of shoes I own. They also stay on the foot as well as many lace-up shoes, despite the fact that they slip on.

To be honest, though, "slip-on" is something of a misnomer here. Until these slippers are well broken in, you'll have to pull them on using both hands, and even after that, you still have to work your foot around some to get them on.

Thanks to the support and protection mentioned above and due to the durability and water resistance of the thick leather exterior of these slippers, one can be forgiven for wearing them out in public like a shoe. The Ascots are at their best, though, when reserved for wearing around the house and during short excursions onto the porch or driveway or down the hall at your apartment building or dorm.

They are about as warm and cozy as any footwear you're likely to find and feel great when worn with or without socks. And when they are limited to indoor and moderate outdoor use, I can tell you with firsthand certainty that these slippers will last for years and years.

Pros: Amazing durability, comfortable and supportive, suitable for wearing like regular shoe

Cons: Hard to put on until broken in



The best slippers for warmth

The Sorel Manawan Slippers encase your entire foot up to the ankle in a warm, soft lining made of wool and faux fur. 

The Sorel Manawan Slippers have an appearance similar to that of a traditional moccasin. Its exterior is made from soft, flexible leather that helps the slipper gently embrace the contours of your foot.

The sole is made from a pliant strip of rubber that offers modest protection should you step outside in these slippers. The excellent comfortable padding is great on interior surfaces like hardwood, tile, or laminate. The slippers have a rise that reaches above the ankle, offering more coverage and warmth than the average slipper, with scoops carved out that mitigate any pressure put on the actual anklebone.

It's what's on the inside that really counts here, though. The Manawan slippers have a thick lining made up of a blend of wool and artificial fur. This liner creates maximum warmth retention, yet it still allows your feet to breathe, reducing the chance of sweat that can lead to foot odor. A removable EVA insole adds support and comfort and further enhances the insulation.

While the rubber sole can absorb moderate impacts, it offers very little in the way of traction, so these slippers are best worn indoors only, and certainly not in icy conditions should you venture outside in them.

Best Choice Reviews notes how these slippers "come up higher than most slipper styles to offer warmth all the way up to the ankle." A ToolsofMen.com article featured the Manawan slippers, noting their "fine materials" that create "comfort and warmth around [the] entire foot."

Pros: Extra warm thanks to quality lining, removable insole adds comfort

Cons: Minimal traction on sole



The best indoor/outdoor slippers

The Slippers International Tamarac Cody Sheepskin Slippers slip on and off with ease and are perfect for all-day wear during lazy days spent inside, but their thick rubber sole provides plenty of traction and protection for trips to the mailbox.

When you slip on the Slippers International Tamarac Cody Sheepskin Slippers, you'll notice a few things right away. First, you'll find that your feet feel great thanks to the memory foam cushioning of the footbed. Second, you'll notice that your feet are nice and warm thanks to the shearling lining within the slipper. And third, you'll find that you have sufficient traction and impact absorption for stable, comfortable walking over all sorts of surfaces, both indoors and outside.

The Tamarac Cody slippers are easy to pull on using the loop connected to the back of the collar, and they stay securely in place thanks to elastic goring wedges set where the tongue meets the upper. The soles don't have an aggressive tread pattern such as you might find on trail runners or hiking boots, but the varied texture of the rubber grips onto tile, concrete, hardwood, and other flat terrain you will commonly encounter within and nearby a residence.

If you dislike cold feet and hate the idea of changing out of your slippers into shoes every time you need to head outside for a few minutes, then these slippers are a great solution.

Fur Slipper Reviews called these slippers "well-designed" and highlighted their "tread for indoor and outdoor use," adding that they "provide ample warmth"

Pros: Sole suitable for outdoor use, comfortable memory foam footbed, snug and secure fit

Cons: Sizes run small and no half sizes available



The best affordable slippers

The J.Crew Factory Faux-Shearling Moccasins offer all the warmth and protection of some of the more expensive slippers on the market at a fraction of the cost.

If budget is your main concern when buying a good pair of slippers, you can rest assured that the J.Crew Factory Faux-Shealing Moccasins have your back when it cold outside. J.Crew Factory is J.Crew's outlet store, which often sells highly affordable merchandise that may be more simply styled or basic than its parent store offers. The quality, however, often stays true to the reputation of the brand. These slippers are no exception.

The faux-shearling liner will keep your feet cozy and dry, while the textured rubber sole will ensure you won't slip on tile floors or during your quick trip to take the trash out.

Our favorites have a tartan pattern on a cotton upper. The cotton construction offers a bit more breathability than some of the other picks on our list, but it also leaves you more vulnerable to moisture seeping through to your feet.

If you prefer a more classic suede construction, J.Crew Factory offers both a black and a brown option. While you won't get the breathability that the cotton version offers, you'll be better protected from the elements. Opt for these if you live in a snowier environment and find yourself outside in your slippers often.

Pros: Very affordable, cozy faux-shearling lining keeps your feet warm and cozy

Cons: The slippers run a half-size small.



The best moccasin-style slippers

Minnetonka's Sheepskin Moose Slippers are toasty and warm, thanks to genuine sheepskin inside and real moose leather on the outside.

Minnetonka started as a roadside gift shop in 1946 and became a worldwide fashion must-have during the 1980s Urban Cowboy trend thanks to its Thunderbird Moc. Since then, the company has become famous for its slippers and moccasins. The Sheepskin Moose Slippers were a big hit with Insider Picks guides reporter Owen Burke.

"I've casually eyed Minnetonka's slippers over the years, but having lived in tropical and sub-tropical climates for the last decade or so, have had little need for slippers. Coming to New York changed that in a flash. As the season's changing and mornings suddenly have a little bite to them, slippers are a must for easing into the day, particularly if you're like me — which is to say, not lavishly lush in the pockets — and you don't have heated floors.

Wearing the Sheepskin Moose Slipper is a delight. The (genuine) sheepskin lining seems to hold up better than other slippers I've had, and I'm a big fan of the cross-stitching and black dye. The rubber sole does enable you to wander outside into modest terrain, but I might recommend against it.

These slippers, on the whole, are indoor shoes, and it'd be a shame to tarnish them on one measly trip through mucky brown snow and grit just to retrieve the morning paper or walk Spot (your dog)," he writes in our group review.

Pros: Genuine leather, warm sheepskin, classic moccasin design

Cons: Indoor only



Japan is developing 50 luxury hotels to cash in on the 40 million visitors it expects next year, and it signals that the country's hotel boom is finally hitting its stride

0
0

Tokyo

  • The number of visitors to Japan has increased significantly in the past few years and is expected to reach 40 million in 2020, the Economist reported.
  • The upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games have placed Japan in the spotlight as a major travel destination.
  • Earlier this month, Japan announced that it would invest in opening 50 new luxury hotels across the country.
  • Japan is looking to cash in on an increasing number of well-to-do travelers, according to travel research site Skift.
  • While new hotels are slated to open in the future, Tokyo is currently facing a 14,000-room per day hotel shortage during the Olympics.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Tourism to Japan has increased exponentially in recent years.

The country was host to 31 million international tourists in 2019. That's nearly five times more than it was in 2011 — and it's expected to reach 40 million in 2020, the Economist reported. The 2020 Tokyo Olympics alone is expected to draw 10 million tourists.

Many of Japan's visitors will be "well-off" financially, The Economist noted. Skift's Raini Hamdi similarly observed that Japan is becoming more popular among "well-heeled" travelers.

However, the country hasn't seen tourist spending increase in proportion to the number of visitors.

"The government wants to address an 'imbalance' of Japan welcoming more foreign arrivals but not necessarily more spending," Hamdi reported for Skift in July.

It's time for Japan to cash in on its tourism boom

Earlier this month, Japan's government announced a new initiative to cash in on luxury tourists. Japan will develop 50 "world-class" hotels through a series of investments and loans, according to Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga.

Japan currently has 32 five-star hotels, the Wall Street Journal notes, citing data from CBRE Hotels. For comparison, Thailand has 112, France 127 and Italy 187. The US has a staggering 793. 

The announcement comes on the heels of what the Wall Street Journal calls a "luxury hotel boom" in Japan. Luxury hotel brands like Four Seasons and Marriott International have announced plans to open hotels in the country, and existing luxury hotels are renovating to keep up with the times. The Okura Tokyo Hotel opened in September after a $1 billion renovation with rooms costing as much $28,000 per night.

"Compared to other cities like New York and Paris, Tokyo still has very few luxury hotels," Miwako Date, chief executive of real-estate company Mori Trust Co. told the Wall Street Journal.

One reason for this is that mass tourism hasn't been a priority of Japan's.

"For decades the government pushed industrial growth, so the country's cities filled up with drab business hotels that catered to armies of salarymen. Property developers dominated the real-estate market and clung to most of the prime city-centre spots," the Economist wrote.

While Japan's plan to build 50 new luxury hotels signals its commitment to broaden — and capitalize on — its tourism market, these new hotels won't debut in time to solve the existing scarcity of hotel rooms. 

Currently, Tokyo is facing a shortage of 14,000 hotel rooms during each day of the Olympic Games, Business Insider's Katie Warren previously reported

To alleviate the demand for housing during the Olympics, luxury cruise ships will serve as floating hotels, and a new Airbnb partnership with the International Olympic Committee will also create "hundreds of thousands of new Airbnb hosts," Warren noted.

SEE ALSO: Tokyo will be short an estimated 14,000 hotel rooms each day of the 2020 Olympics, and the city is scrambling to find alternatives for the flood of visitors

READ NOW: A luxury travel company exec says Japan, Slovenia, and Antarctica will be the hottest travel destinations of 2020

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Traditional Japanese swords can take over 18 months to create — here's what makes them so special

The family behind OxyContin pocketed $10.7 billion from Purdue Pharma. Meet the Sacklers, who built their $13 billion fortune off the controversial opioid.

0
0

oxycontin

The pharmaceutical company behind OxyContin spent the past decade in crisis as lawsuits over its role in the opioid crisis piled up, but the billionaire family that owns it only got richer.

The Sacklers pulled $10.7 billion out of Purdue Pharma and moved it into a network of trusts and holding companies across the globe, The New York Times' Jan Hoffman and Danny Hakim reported Monday. The Sacklers are already one of the wealthiest families in the US, with Forbes estimating that 20 relatives had a combined net worth of $13 billion as of 2016.

The source of the family's wealth is OxyContin, the prescription painkiller made by Purdue Pharma that many say has fueled the US opioid crisis. Purdue Pharma filed for bankruptcy in September as part of a tentative settlement agreement in thousands of lawsuits over what accusers say is misleading marketing of the controversial painkiller. The settlement requires the owners of Purdue Pharma — members of the Sackler family — to pay out $3 billion of their own fortune in cash over the next seven years.

Here's a look at the secretive and controversial family.

SEE ALSO: Nonprofits, museums, and hedge funds: Here are the groups that have cut ties with the Sackler family over the opioid crisis

DON'T MISS: Meet Bernard and Lisa Selz, the wealthy New York City couple who have donated millions to the anti-vax movement

The Sackler family is one of the richest families in the US.

In 2016, Forbes estimated their net worth at a "conservative" $14 billion, beating out famously wealthy families such as the Mellons and the Rockefellers. More recent estimates put the figure at $13 billion. They own Purdue Pharma, a pharmaceutical company in Connecticut.



The vast majority of the Sackler fortune comes from a well-known prescription painkiller that Purdue Pharma launched in 1996, OxyContin.

By 2001, sales of the drug made up about 80% of Purdue Pharma's revenue.



OxyContin is seen as partly to blame for the opioid crisis sweeping the US.

More than 130 people in the US die each day after overdosing on opioids, including prescription pain relievers, heroin, and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse.

A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report in July indicated that overdose deaths actually dropped 5% from 2017 to 2018, the first year-to-year decline since 1990.



Purdue Pharma, which generates $3 billion in annual sales, has faced thousands of lawsuits over what accusers say is misleading marketing about the risks of addiction when taking OxyContin.

The Sackler family still completely owns the company, and the multibillion-dollar fortune is shared among 20 or so family members. As The New York Times has reported, the exact number of the family's fortune is unknown as Purdue Pharma is a private company.



On September 11, the New York Times reported that the owners of Purdue Pharma — including members of the Sackler family — reached a tentative settlement agreement.

The settlement requires the Sacklers to pay $3 billion of their own fortune in cash over the next seven years, The Times reported. 



Just a few days later on September 15, Purdue Pharma had filed for bankruptcy. The Chapter 11 filing came as part of a tentative settlement of more than 2,000 lawsuits against the pharmaceutical company for between $10 billion and $12 billion.

The proposed settlement includes the Sackler family giving up ownership of the company and turning it into a for-profit "public benefit trust" that would provide $4 billion in drugs — some of which are used to save people from overdoses — to cities, counties, and states, according to NBC News.

The deal would also include $3 billion in cash from the Sackler family, Bloomberg reported.

In a statement released on September 16, the Sackler family said:

"It is our hope the bankruptcy reorganization process that is now underway will end our ownership of Purdue and ensure its assets are dedicated for the public benefit ... We are hopeful that in time, those parties who are not yet supportive will ultimately shift their focus to the critical resources that the settlement provides to people and problems that need them."

Despite the tentative settlement, Purdue Pharma continues to deny any wrongdoing. In a statement to Business Insider, the company said: "While Purdue Pharma is prepared to defend itself vigorously in the opioid litigation, the company has made clear that it sees little good coming from years of wasteful litigation and appeals."

The company declined to comment on any further details of the proposed settlement to Business Insider.



In the midst of the court proceedings, members of the family reportedly finalized a deal that earned them about $60 million from the sale of 17 ski resorts in the Northeast and Midwest, The Washington Post reported.

"Many of the ski areas in the transaction sit in places that have been hit hard by prescription narcotic abuse over the past 20 years, including those in New Hampshire, as well as hills in Vermont, the Catskills in New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania," Christopher Rowland reported for the Post.

The deal included the sale of Attitash Mountain Ski Area and Wildcat Mountain Resort, both in New Hampshire.

Members of the Sackler family bought stock in Peak Resorts Inc., the company that sold the ski resorts, in 2015, according to the Post.

Representatives for the Sackler family and for Purdue Pharma did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment regarding the deal. 



But that payout pales in comparison to the $10.7 billion the family moved from Purdue Pharma to a worldwide network of trusts and holding companies between 2008 and 2017, according to an audit commissioned by Purdue.

The value of the transfers increased dramatically after Purdue came under scrutiny for its marketing tactics, according to the report. The Sacklers disbursed $1.32 billion from Purdue between 1995 and 2007, which was considered OxyContin's heyday.

The money transfers were an apparent attempt to shield the money from lawsuits, The New York Times' Jan Hoffman and Danny Hakim reported.

"These distribution numbers were known at the time the proposed settlement was agreed to by two dozen attorneys general and thousands of local governments," the family's attorney, Daniel S. Connolly, said in a statement to Business Insider. "They have been public for months, and this filing reflects the fact that more than half was paid in taxes and reinvested in businesses that will be sold as part of the proposed settlement. The Sackler family hopes to reach a productive resolution where they contribute Purdue for the public benefit and provide at least $3 billion of additional money to help communities and people who need help now, which makes more sense for everyone than continuing litigation that only squander resources."

In a lengthy statement about the report provided to Business Insider, a representative of Purdue Pharma said the company spent months compiling the report as a part of a larger effort to increase transparency. "Purdue is providing this exceedingly rare level of transparency to help ensure that all claimants, including attorneys general and the communities they represent, can support the settlement structure that would transfer more than $10 billion of value to the American public to address the opioid epidemic and save lives," the statement reads, in part.

 



The Sacklers are far from a tight-knit family.

The Guardian described them in 2018 as "a sprawling and now feuding transatlantic dynasty." According to a 2017 article from The New Yorker, there are 15 Sackler children in the generation following the founders of Purdue.

While some Sacklers previously served as board members of Purdue Pharma, others — notably those descended from the eldest brother, Arthur M. Sackler, who died before OxyContin was invented — have distanced themselves from the company and condemned the OxyContin-based wealth, according to The Guardian. On September 18, a representative for Purdue Pharma told Business Insider that no Sackler family members have served on Purdue Pharma's board since January 2019.



The pharmaceutical empire began when the brothers Mortimer and Raymond Sackler took over a small pharmaceutical company in New York City's Greenwich Village called Purdue Frederick as cochairmen.

It later became Purdue Pharma.



Arthur, the oldest Sackler brother, worked in pharmaceutical marketing and became one of the world's leading collectors of Asian art.

He died in 1987 at age 73, before OxyContin was invented. His descendants split off from the rest of the family years ago and are "mere multimillionaires," according to Esquire.



Arthur's four children, Elizabeth Sackler, Carol Master, Arthur Felix Sackler, and Denise Marica, have said they have not made any money from OxyContin.

Elizabeth, a board member of the Brooklyn Museum, where she endowed the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art, has called the OxyContin-based wealth of her family members "morally abhorrent."

A 2018 investigation by The Atlantic found a court document that showed a nearly $20 million payment to Arthur M. Sackler's estate in 1997 from the Purdue family of companies, suggesting his descendants did benefit in some way from OxyContin.

In an email to Business Insider, Janet Wootten, a spokeswoman for Jillian Sackler, widow of Arthur M. Sackler, denied that Jillian, Arthur, or their heirs have financially profited from the sale of OxyContin.



Mortimer Sackler, the middle son who was one of Purdue Pharma's chief executives, died in 2010 at age 93. He was survived by his third wife, Theresa Sackler, and seven children, three of whom were board members of Purdue Pharma, according to The Guardian. A rep for Purdue Pharma told Business Insider that no Sackler family members have served on Purdue's board since January 2019.

Theresa is heavily involved in philanthropic work. In 2011, she received the Prince of Wales Medal for Art Philanthropy.



One of those former board members is his son, also named Mortimer.

The other two are the daughters Kathe Sackler, who is also the founder and president of the Acorn Foundation for the Arts & Sciences, and Ilene Sackler Lefcourt, the director of the Sackler Lefcourt Center for Child Development.



The elder Mortimer's other four children — Samantha Sophia, Michael, Marissa, and Sophie — are apparently not involved in the company.

Marissa Sackler, who considers herself a "social entrepreneur," is the founder of Beespace, a nonprofit that supports organizations such as the Malala Fund.

Sophie Sackler is married to a British cricket player, with whom she lives in a $40 million house in London, according to The New Yorker.



Raymond Sackler, Purdue Pharma's other former chief executive, died in 2017 at age 97. He had two children: Jonathan and Richard.

Both were board members at Purdue Pharma, The Guardian reported in February 2018.

Richard's son and Raymond's grandson, David, was also a board member.



Richard Sackler reportedly lives in a six-bedroom home in Austin, Texas.

The home in the Westlake neighborhood of Austin comes with a pool and views of Lake Austin.



His son, David Sackler, paid cash for a $22.5 million home in Los Angeles in 2018, according to Curbed.

The 10,000-square-foot estate sits on four acres in the Bel Air neighborhood, according to Curbed, and includes a tennis court and a pool.



David is married to Joss Sackler, the founder of a private social club and clothing company for women.

Joss is the founder of LBV, a private social club that charges $2,500 a year in dues to be a core member. The club also recently launched its own fashion line.



Raymond's granddaughter, Madeleine Sackler, is an award-winning filmmaker.

In response to criticism related to her family background, she said she had "never worked at the company or had any influence in it."



"The Sacklers have hidden their connection to their product," Keith Humphreys, a psychiatry professor at Stanford University who has written extensively about the opioid crisis, told Esquire.

"They don't call it 'Sackler Pharma,'" Humphreys said. "They don't call their pills 'Sackler pills.' And when they're questioned, they say, 'Well, it's a privately held firm, we're a family, we like to keep our privacy, you understand.'"



But the family is well-known for their philanthropic endeavors, with their names visibly emblazoned on hospital wings and museum galleries.

In a 2017 New Yorker article about the Sacklers titled "The Family That Built an Empire of Pain," Patrick Radden Keefe noted the Sacklers were well-known for their philanthropy.

The Sacklers reportedly donated $3.5 million to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City in 1974 to create the Sackler Wing, where the Ancient Egyptian Temple of Dendur sits.

On May 15, 2019, however, the Met announced it would stop taking gifts from the Sacklers.

Many other institutions including nonprofits, museums, and universities have recently cut ties with the Sackler family over the opioid crisis.



There's a Sackler Center at the Guggenheim in New York City, as well as a Sackler Educational Lab at the American Museum of Natural History.

Source: Esquire



The family's influence on art extends beyond New York City. There's a Sackler Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC.

According to Esquire, at Yale University, there's a Raymond and Beverly Sackler Institute for Biological, Physical and Engineering Sciences and a Richard Sackler and Jonathan Sackler Professorship of Internal Medicine.

And in London, there's the Serpentine Sackler Gallery.



There's even a type of rose named after a Sackler.

Some have suggested the Sacklers should instead put their money toward helping those affected by opioid addiction, The New Yorker's Patrick Radden Keefe reported.



How to change the notification sound on your iPad for built-in apps and alerts

0
0

ipad using man

  • To change the notification sound on your iPad, navigate to the Sounds tab in the Settings app. 
  • You can change the notification sounds for email and text alerts, as well as Calendar alerts, Reminders, and AirDrop. 
  • You can also purchase new sounds in the Tone Store if you want to further customize the notification sounds on your iPad
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

If you've set up Mail and iMessage on your iPad, you may be getting frequent notifications for texts and emails. 

In addition, notifications might be coming in for Calendar alerts, Reminders, and more. And if you don't like hearing those classic notification sounds, it's a good idea to change them — or customize each notification sound so you know what the alert is when it rings. 

Luckily, it's quite easy to change the notification sounds on your iPad. Here's how to do it. 

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPad (From $329.99 at Best Buy)

How to change the notification sound on an iPad

1. Open Settings.

2. Scroll down and tap Sounds.

3. Tap Text Tone to change your text message notification sound — simply scroll through alert tones and choose your sound. 

How_to_change_notification_sound_on_iPad 1

4. Go back to Sounds and tap on New Mail. This will change the notification sound for any incoming email. 

5. You can go back to Sounds and choose every other notification alert for which you want to change the sound — these include Sent Mail, Calendar Alerts, Reminder Alerts, and AirDrop.

How_to_change_notification_sound_on_iPad 3

If you really want to customize your notifications sounds, you can tap on the Tone Store and purchase new tones, from songs to clips and quotations.

 

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

SEE ALSO: The best iPads you can buy

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: People are still debating the pink or grey sneaker, 2 years after it went viral. Here's the real color explained.

The 57 best products and services we discovered in 2019

0
0

2 Best Products Tried in 2019 4x3

At Insider Picks, every review we publish reflects our real experience with a great product, but each year there are always a few outstanding ones we think are worth highlighting again.

After testing countless products and services this year, we thought about the best of the best and came up with the following list of our 2019 favorites. 

Because we're a group of product reviewers with diverse needs and interests, you'll find everything from beauty, home, kitchen, and clothing, to tech and entertainment recommendations. We've also included the original reviews if you'd like to read up on each product or service in more detail. 

Learn more about the 57 best products we tried in 2019: 

1. The 'lite' version of the Nintendo Switch

Nintendo Switch Lite, available at Best Buy, $199.99

The latest Switch console from Nintendo strips a ton of key features from the core concept of the device, like detachable controllers and TV play, but it focuses on the way I've played with Switch 90% of the time anyway: in my hands on the trains to and from work. As a husband and a father with a 90-minute commute both ways, this is about the only way I'm able to get my game time in these days — at least until my son is old enough to join my gaming escapades.

It helps that Switch has become the ultimate retro gaming console, which is excellent for my nostalgia-starved gaming tastes. —Joe Osborne, senior tech editor

Read our review:I spent a week with Nintendo's new, $200 version of its wildly popular Nintendo Switch — and I'm convinced it's going to be a killer gift option this holiday

 



2. A beautiful smartwatch

Withings Steel HR, available at Withings, $179.95

I've tried just about every smartwatch and smart analog watch there is over the past few 5 or 6 years. Withings' hybrid watches have always been among my favorites. I've been wearing the Steel HR all year long because it looks so much like a traditional watch, but it buzzes to alert me to notifications and it has a heart rate monitor to track my exercise.

It has a subtle, small display that blends right in with the black watch face. I can see the time, my stats, and notifications on the screen so I don't have to check my phone if it's not important. —Malarie Gokey, senior editor

Read our review:Withings' Steel HR combines the classic look of an analog watch with the features of a smartwatch



3. The earbuds that people either love or hate

Apple AirPods, available at Best Buy, $144.99

I wasn't an early adopter of Apple AirPods, but after receiving them as a gift at the beginning of 2019, I instantly became a fan. Even though I have plenty of other headphones that I could use, AirPods are the only ones I want to use because they're so convenient.

They effortlessly pair to my iPhone, they're comfortable and secure in my ears, and the charging case gives them a long battery life. I use them for listening to music, podcasts, and talking on the phone. They're great for commutes, in the office, and in the gym. I can say that I've used them every single day since getting them.—Amir Ismael, reporter

Read our guide:The best iPhone accessories from cases to lightning cables

 



4. A weighted blanket that doesn't overheat

Cooling Blanket, available at Gravity, $259

Weighted blankets are one of my favorite discoveries of the last decade. I used to think the quality of my sleep was mostly beyond my control (barring exercise and a good mattress and the typical rules of thumb), but these have markedly improved the quality of my sleep. I've tried and liked options as cheap as $70, but Gravity's white cooling version blends in the best with my bedding, and keeps me a bit cooler underneath it during the summer. —Mara Leighton, reporter 

Read our review:I tried the new $250 Gravity Blanket, a weighted blanket that's designed to have a cooling effect, and it kept me from overheating at night

Read our guide: The best weighted blankets you can buy



5. Stretchy and sculpting leggings

High-Waist Airlift Capri, available at Alo Yoga, $104

I know these leggings are pricey, but I've recently adopted a "fewer, better" mentality that has helped me justify the cost. These are my perfect pair of leggings: They're compressive but not restrictive, jet black and not at all see-through, and they have a waistband that doesn't dig in but doesn't ride down when you're bent like a pretzel during yoga practice.  —Sally Kaplan, editor 



6. A large blanket that's easy to bring to the beach

Grand Trunk Parasheet Beach Blanket, available at Amazon, $23.97

As a native Michigander, I thought I was giving up my summer days at the beach when I moved to New York City, until I discovered how easy it was to take the subway to Brighton Beach from my apartment in Brooklyn. The Parasheet Beach Blanket from Grand Trunk makes the commute even easier because the 7-feet-by-7-feet blanket can be stuffed into its amazingly compact carrying case, which weighs less than a pound. Plus, the material repels the sand so it doesn't track any unwanted mess into your bag when you're packing up and heading home. —Danny Bakst, senior content producer 

Read our review:This $30 beach blanket lays flat and doesn't fly away — here's why I'll never go to the beach or park without it

 



7. A deep fryer that won't take up that much space

Cuisinart Mini Deep Fryer, available at Bed Bath & Beyond, $49.99

I have a deep love for fish and chips, and once my partner and I started playing around with making the perfect beer batter for the fish, we ended up getting this mini deep fryer. Most deep fryers are absolutely massive and take up a ton of valuable counter space, but this one is compact enough that we can keep it on our kitchen counter all the time. We've made fish and chips, onion rings, and even donuts in it to great success. —Malarie Gokey, senior editor

 



8. A set of Japanese skin-care essentials

Tatcha Bestsellers Set, available at Sephora, $60

Tatcha is a Japanese skin-care brand that makes gentle products with concentrated formulas. This bundle includes a bevy of Tatcha's "holy grail" skin-care products at a reasonable price. Not all of the products are new to 2019, but my experience with this skin-care regimen was. After just two weeks, I saw noticeable results using the four products. My skin was uncharacteristically soft, hydrated, and glowing; and I was able to leave the house sans makeup. I haven't looked back since. —Dominique McIntee, editorial fellow

Read our review: This Japanese skincare brand makes some of the best products I've ever used — here are the ones to buy for clear, glowing skin

 

 



9. The nonstick pan you should use for every breakfast

10-inch Nonstick Skillet, available at Sardel, $90

Everyone needs a 10-inch nonstick skillet in their kitchen arsenal for cooking eggs and pancakes, and Sardel's $90 one is worth every penny. I've never made more evenly cooked scrambled eggs in my life, and the egg remnants glide off this pan with little more than a stream of hot water and the single swipe of a soapy sponge. The heat distribution is excellent; the edges of the pan cook at the same rate as the middle. It's a marvel of engineering. —Ellen Hoffman, director of content strategy

Read our review: Cookware startup Sardel is one to watch — here's what we thought after putting its pots and pans to the test



10. Tile trackers

Tile Pro 2-Pack, available at Tile, $34.99

I've been attaching the Tile trackers to important belongings like my keys, wallet, and Airpods since 2018, but they really did their job in 2019. I lost my Airpods case somewhere on my college campus this spring and used the Tile app on my phone to track them down (somehow the case hadn't been taken) and when my phone was stolen when I was in London this year, I was able to track it on Tile's website.

2019 was a great year for me misplacing all my important possessions, but Tile really helped me out and for that I am, and will continue to be, extremely grateful. —Ciannah Gin, editorial fellow

Read our review: I can't even tell when this $27 security tracker is in my wallet — but I'm more at ease knowing it's there to prevent me from losing it



11. An all-in-one hairbrush

Drybar Brush Crush, available at Nordstrom, $145

If you're like me and have been looking to cut down on styling time without needing to juggle multiple tools, then this is a great option. The best part is that it takes me maybe 20 to 25 minutes in total, leaving my hair the smoothest it's ever looked, but with plenty of volume and movement. —Francesca Rea, content producer 

Read our review: Drybar's new brush is like a flatiron and paddle brush in one — it only takes me 25 minutes to straighten my hair now instead of 50



12. Heat-safe silicone lids with a variety of uses

Five Two Airtight Silicone Lids, available at Food52, $40

These silicone lids might truly be the most useful thing I came across this year. They can cover and seal mixing bowls in the fridge when you don't have a clean container to transfer leftovers into; they can act as lids on pots and pans in the oven; they can be popped on top of cookware to keep your food warm as you wait to serve it ... I could go on, but I'll spare you. They come in a pack of five sizes and are even dishwasher safe. —Sally Kaplan, editor 



13. A smart lamp that doubles as a speaker

GE Lighting C, available at Amazon, $149.99

I received this lamp as a gift, and it's easily been the best addition to my bedroom in 2019.

The Sol Smart Light lets you control the lamp using both an app on your phone and Amazon's voice assistant, Alexa. I'm admittedly lazy, so being able to turn a light on and off from my bed just by speaking out loud has been a huge gamechanger. Because of the Alexa capabilities, the Sol Smart Light can double as a speaker, which makes it all the more useful. —Emily Hein, content production fellow

 



14. Tough yet lightweight waders

Middle Fork Packable Waders, available at Patagonia, $349

River Salt Wading Boots, available at Patagonia, $449

Patagonia's Middle Fork Packable fishing waders are about the weight of a rain jacket. Sure, I still have to pack (or wear) boots, but the Danner x Patagonia boots that go along with them are comfortable enough to wear on the plane if need be. 

Moreover, these waders are as tough as anything. I was bushwhacking, sliding down banks, and catching them on anything and everything, just trying to tear them. No such luck. Yes, they're a pretty penny and probably about twice what I've paid for waders in the past, but I'll place my bets on these things lasting a good long while. —Owen Burke, senior reporter 

Read our review: Patagonia and Danner teamed up on a packable fly-fishing wader and boot set that only weighs 5 pounds — here's how it stacks up after 6 months of heavy use



15. Elegant sandals you can wear all day

The City Sandal, available at Margaux, $275

These are the most comfortable sandals I've ever worn. They were comfortable right out of the box and I wore them during my 10+ hour wedding day without getting any blisters or soreness the next day. I normally wear two-inch heels so I was worried about the 2.5-inch height on such a big day, but they were really supportive in the heel and just the right width in the toebox that I didn't even notice the difference. Knowing that these were so comfortable, I plan on getting a pair of Margaux's boots next year. —Jada Wong, editor 

Read our review: I wore these $265 heels right out of the box for my wedding — they didn't hurt even after 10 hours



16. An interesting book about the inception and growth of Netflix

"That Will Never Work: The Birth of Netflix and the Amazing Life of an Idea" by Marc Randolph, available at Amazon, $17.59 (hardcover)

It is somewhat ironic that this book was written by the man who arguably bears most of the responsibility for the world's steady decline in reading. But Marc Randolph, the co-founder of Netflix and its first CEO, really is an "open book," sharing his personal journeys and struggles as he launched the behemoth DVD-rental-turned-streaming-service.

I enjoyed this book so much that I passed it along to a good friend who then shared it with his father who then shared it with a coworker.

The insights shared are pure gems: failures, rejections, demotions. But all in all, a fascinating exposé that I recommend to anyone interested in a solid business book. —Shalom Goodman, SEO strategist



17. An affordable and stylish set of workout clothes

JoyLab High Neck Sports Bra, available at Target, $19.99

JoyLab Seamless 3/4 Leggings, available at Target, $29.99

I have trouble feeling confident in workout clothes, so for a while, I stuck to old T-shirts and leggings. I loved this sports bra as soon as I saw it, so I figured I'd try it on, and it quickly became my favorite.

Although it's not the most supportive sports bra I own, the mesh top, high neckline, and overall length give me much more coverage than a regular sports bra does, allowing me to feel confident enough to wear it without a workout top. I bought the leggings soon after, and I've worn them to nearly every workout class I've been to since. I never thought I'd be able to rock a workout set, so I'm certainly grateful to have found this one. —Emily Hein, content production fellow



18. A thick and supportive mattress

Mint Mattress (Queen), $846, available at Tuft & Needle

The biggest selling point of Tuft & Needle's newest mattress is that it combines the contouring comfort and pressure relief of memory foam with the breathability and bounciness of latex. It's thick (12-inches tall) and medium-firm, with a soft, cozy, and textured top layer. Suffice to say, it's very comfortable, and I love coming home to collapse into and fall asleep in this mattress. 

It features "open cell foam technology," which allows air to flow freely through the mattress and improves breathability, so I don't overheat like I would on a memory foam mattress. And the brand's signature Adaptive Foam, which can also be found in my favorite beanbag chair, contours to my body regardless of my sleep position. —Connie Chen, senior reporter

Read our review: Tuft & Needle's newest mattress is a more supportive and breathable upgrade from its original — I've been sleeping on it for 4 months and never want to get out of bed



19. Breathable underwear

Women's Cool Cotton Lace Waist Brief, available at Tommy John, $26

Upon joining the Insider Picks team, I started to acquire products from companies and brands our team loves and recommends. I can confidently say that I have thoroughly enjoyed everything from super-soft sweaters to meal kit delivery services and acetone-free nail polish remover to non-irritating laundry powder.

However, the most life-changing product I've tried that the Insider Picks team loves and highly recommends is Tommy John's women's underwear. I've never worn or felt anything as soft as this underwear and immediately do laundry the moment I realize that all my Tommy John underwear is in my laundry basket.

I recently purchased matching pants and a top to sleep in and, even though my insomnia has been alleviated with Brooklinen bedding and a white noise sound machine, these pajamas are the cherry on top. —Ciannah Gin, editorial fellow



20. Convenient and eco-friendly silicone snack bags

Stasher Silicone Food Storage Bags, available at Amazon, from $9.99

I've been trying to stop using so many single-use plastic products for food storage, and when I read about Stasher's silicone food storage bags in our roundup of the best products from Outdoor Retailer's Summer Market, I knew I had to try some. Now, I use Stasher bags to store all kinds of foods: onions, garlic, cheese, crackers, and more. The bags are thick, durable, seal easily, and keep food fresher for longer. You can also use them for sous vide cooking, but I haven't tried that yet. —Malarie Gokey, senior editor

Read our review: The best new gear we saw at Outdoor Retailer's 2019 summer market



21. A GoPro camera with a built-in mounting system

GoPro Hero 8, available at Best Buy, $399.99

The Hero8 Black is the action camera grown up. It's small, but it shoots video and photos comparable to larger cameras, and it's more rugged and fun to use than a smartphone. Among its many improvements include image stabilization, audio capture, menu navigation, and shooting modes, but the biggest change is the built-in mounting system. The 4K video is some of the best I've ever shot with a camera.

Equally great is the new Hero Max 360-degree camera, which can capture footage all around you. —Les Shu, guides editor



22. Water-resistant wool sneakers

Wool Runner-Up Mizzles, available at Allbirds, $135

Of all the technological leaps and bounds that have occurred over the past year, none have given me more clout than my pair of water-resistant Wool Runner-Up Mizzles from Allbirds. There's nothing quite like the chorus of "oohs" and "ahs" that emit from my coworkers when they witness beads of water gracefully bouncing off the wool exterior of my eco-friendly Allbirds.

The shoes are technologically impressive, surprisingly snug, and fashionably versatile enough that nobody bats an eye when my Dad and I walk into a room wearing the exact same pair of shoes. —Danny Bakst, senior content producer 

Read our review: Allbirds now makes water-resistant shoes — here's your first look, plus our verdict



23. Dansko pumps

Dansko Pennie Waterproof Pump, available at Nordstrom, $159.99

I unironically love Dansko clogs and shoes. They are the hill I would die on — they are comfortable, they are beautiful, and they are durable. Contrary to popular belief, Dansko makes more than just clogs — the brand makes excellent shoes, heels, and boots, too!

I have about half a dozen Danskos, including these lovely waterproof pumps. They have a comfy 2.75-inch heel that's perfectly walkable. The leather is sturdy, soft, and water-resistant. I wear them to work often with dresses and tights or pants that are a tad too long for me. —Malarie Gokey, senior editor



24. A subscription to the most popular streaming service right now

Disney+ Subscription, from $6.99/month 

I didn't have cable television growing up, so I didn't get to watch as many Disney shows or movies as I would have liked to. The moment Disney Plus was announced, I knew my time had come to make up for all that I missed.

As a Verizon customer, I got one year of Disney Plus for free and for the past few weeks, all I've really been doing is watching anything and everything on this streaming service — from original series like "Encore" and "High School Musical" (although I'm still unsure how I feel about these) to "The Mandalorian" where I expect to cry every episode because Baby Yoda is so adorable that I become overwhelmed by his cuteness. —Ciannah Gin, editorial fellow

Read our review: Disney Plus: Everything you need to know about Disney's new ad-free streaming service



25. A versatile everyday backpack

UTO Oxford Backpack Purse, available at Amazon, $29.99

I was loyal to tote bags for so long, but carrying all of my things around on one shoulder was starting to affect my posture. This backpack was the perfect solution: It's super lightweight, easily fits my 13-inch laptop, and it's incredibly durable.

The simple black design makes it appropriate for nearly any occasion — it's currently my work bag, but it holds up while traveling, too. The various compartments and two cup holders (one of which I use for an umbrella) allow it to effortlessly fit everything I need to get through the day. —Emily Hein, content production fellow



26. An overnight bag full of clever features for travel

O.G. 2 Large Overnight Travel Bag, available at Lo & Sons, $338

The O.G. Overnight Bag is my go-to personal item on flights. Its suitcase-handle sleeve is a game-changer and inside are some even cooler features, like a padded laptop sleeve, a separate shoe compartment, and tons of pockets for organizing all my odds and ends.

It also comes with a messenger strap for easy and comfortable carrying across your body or over your shoulder, and it's made of a durable and water-resistant nylon, so there's no need to worry about it being ruined by coffee spills or bad weather.

Similarly, the Edgemont Convertible Backpack Tote is my ideal work-to-gym bag; it fits all the essentials for both purposes, but still manages to feel fairly light and very comfortable on my back or shoulder. —Ellen Hoffman, director of content strategy

 



27. A watch with a unique way of telling time

Bradley x Dezeen Watch, available at Eone Watch, $285

Eone is a watch brand with the goal of making watches both fashionable and accessible for everyone. The founder, Hyungsoo Kim, learned from a blind friend that there were very few options for those living with visual impairment, and even fewer of them were fashionable. It was either talking watches (too loud) or tactile ones (impracticably fragile).

Eone has just about reinvented the watch, far as I'm concerned. All you have at work here are two magnets controlling two stainless steel bearing balls held in place by a recessed track, with one running around the circumference of the matte-titanium watch face telling the hour and the other, within the watch face, denoting the minute within. The hours are marked by small pronounced steel ticks that make up the dial.

Apart from the artfulness of it, this watch has also made me immensely more grateful for my vision. We could all stand to wear a little more humility and gratitude in our day to day lives, and Eone has helped me do just that. —Owen Burke, senior reporter 

Read our review: This watch is for people who are blind or living with low vision — it's also a well-made work of art in its own right



28. A duffel backpack you can bring as your carry-on

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L in Cali Hiero, available at Amazon, $99

I love this bag for its waterproof material and because it can be used in three different ways: as a backpack, shoulder bag, or carry-on. Even better is that it can be folded into itself for storage. —Les Shu, guides editor



29. A Rent the Runway Unlimited membership

Rent the Runway Unlimited, $159/month

I've made the most of my monthly membership this year, getting beautiful and stylish outfits for fancy functions, work, festivals, and travels. I like to keep my closet fresh, but it's wasteful and costly to buy new pieces. Thanks to the design of RTR Unlimited, which lets you rent out four pieces at a time and exchange each of them as frequently as you'd like during the month, I've been able to satisfy my desire for new things without feeling guilty about adding to the world's textile waste problem. —Connie Chen, senior reporter 

I think I've only bought a handful of new pieces of clothing ever since I started using Rent the Runway Unlimited eight months ago. Even though the monthly fee is pricey at $160, I've definitely saved a ton of money now that my shopping habits are more like rental habits; the only thing I buy now are shoes since they're not on RTR. I love using my commute to Favorite pieces I'd want to rent in the future, so whenever a rental spot opens up, I can pick from my list in a few minutes.—Jada Wong, editor 

Read our review: We used Rent the Runway Unlimited to rent $4,862 worth of designer clothes in a week — here's how the subscription plan works and why we're so willing to pay the $160 monthly fee

Read our review:21 of our favorite styles from Rent the Runway for work, weekends, weddings, and everything in between



30. A luxurious sheet set

Luxury Suite Sheet Set, available at Gryphon, $149.99 (Queen)

I never really gave bedding much thought until I was sent a set from Gryphon to test. These feel like I'm sleeping in a nice hotel bed every night; they're super soft and silky even though they're not actually silk. They wrinkle easier than other bedding I have, but my eyes are already shut by the time I hit the pillow anyway so it doesn't really matter. —Jada Wong, editor 

Read our review: The $140 sheets that showed me why it's worth paying more for bedding



31. A $500 Dyson vacuum

Dyson V11 Torque Drive Vacuum, $500, available at Amazon

The floor of our apartment, which houses four people with long hair and a cat, collects dust, hair, and food crumbs like no other. Dyson's cordless stick vacuum makes it easy to clean up our dirty floors because it's thorough, efficient, and powerful.

The LCD screen at the top of a handle is a new feature that lets me know how much time is left before I have to plug the vacuum back in to charge. Dyson says the screen was added to help reduce "run time anxiety," which is apparently common among its current users. On Auto mode, the V11 adapts to and deep cleans a variety of floor types with a balanced amount of suction power. Eco mode is made for lighter, longer cleans, while Boost mode provides up to five minutes of super powerful, intensive cleaning. —Connie Chen, senior reporter 

Read our review: I tried Dyson's most powerful cordless vacuum yet — here's why the $700 price tag makes sense



32. An ebook reader with advanced features

New Kindle Oasis, available at Amazon, $249.99

I've been a fan of the Kindle Oasis since the first version launched a few years ago, and the latest Oasis takes reading to a whole new level.

On paper, the new Oasis may seem to be nearly identical to the previous one, but the new model has an adjustable screen that lets you set the color temperature and filter out blue light. It's a gamechanger for reading at night — my eyes are less tired and I can fall asleep reading because the blue light isn't tricking my mind into thinking it's daytime and I should be awake. —Malarie Gokey, senior editor

Read our review:The best Kindles and ebook readers



33. A large, crisp monitor

BenQ PD3220U 32-inch 4K UHD IPS Monitor, available at Amazon, $1,199.99

If there's one thing on my desk that makes my colleagues jealous, it's this 32-inch display from BenQ. Not only is the size impressive, but it has amazing color reproduction, making it ideal for photo and video editing. While not great for gaming, the 5ms response time is suitable for most people. It's Thunderbolt-ready, so it's a great companion to my MacBook Pro. —Les Shu, guides editor



34. A saucepan with an ergonomic handle

2-Quart Saucepan, available at Sardel, $85

I used to work in professional kitchens, and one of the banes of my existence was trying to lift, shake, and carry heavy pots or pans that had poorly shaped handles. Sardel's five-fly stainless steel pots and pans use a rounded ergonimic handle that makes them so much more comfortable to hold and move.

They're also relatively affordable when compared to the classics like All-Clad, but I think they'll hold up just as well. At least, they have so far. —Sally Kaplan, editor 

 

 



35. A recycled cashmere sweater

ReCashmere Vintage Crew, available at Everlane, $95

I love Everlane's cashmere sweaters, and its new ReCashmere line is just as good as its Grade-A pieces. I wear the ReCashmere Vintage Crew in Heathered Aqua quite often now that it's cold outside. The light blue color is unique and nearly matches the lightest part of my eyes. It's soft, comfy, and warm. I also like that it's a tad cropped — many sweaters are overlong on my petite frame. —Malarie Gokey, senior editor

Read our review:We tried Everlane's recycled cashmere sweaters — they're more sustainably produced and just as comfortable as the originals



36. Workout leggings from Patagonia

Women's Centered Crops, available at Patagonia, $69

I'm a big Patagonia fan and have been for years. The brand consistently delivers high-quality and well-made clothing and gear, so each item you buy should last a long time. My quilted Snap-T Pullover is a few years old, but it wears its age really well despite countless washings.

The hallmarks of Patagonia construction are all also present in the design of the Centered Crops. They're so comfy for just lounging around! But they're also great for working out since they're made of a thick-ish polyester/spandex knit fabric that offers plenty of stretch, wicks moisture, and resists odor. I usually re-wear my workout clothes a few times before washing them (in an effort to conserve water where I can), and these leggings make for less smelly gym sessions. —Ellen Hoffman, director of content strategy

Read our review: 3 women tried Patagonia's sustainable workout leggings — here are our reviews of everything from fit to function



37. A concealer that offers full coverage

Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer, available at Ulta, $27

Thanks to Tik Tok, I lead a nocturnal lifestyle, as many can tell by my gray under-eye circles. I've dabbled in a slew of products in the past year alone to brighten my under-eye area up, but the Facetune app has been my best bet. 

Thanks to Tarte's Shape Tape concealer, which feels more like a thick foundation that blends easily, I think I've found the answer. It covers everything, from stubborn pimples to blemishes, and yes, noticeable eye circles, and the coverage actually lasts. With an array of shade ranges to choose from, it's widely accessible, too. I'd be remiss if I didn't mention its steep $27 price-tag — that being said, it's a worthwhile investment compared to low-quality dupes. —Dominique McIntee, editorial fellow



38. The newest iPhone

iPhone 11 Pro, available at Best Buy, $999.99

I am one of those people who upgrades to the new iPhone every year. It is my biggest vice and the only truly expensive thing I spend money on. Because I always trade in my old phone, I usually get a good deal and end only paying half the price before upgrading again.

The iPhone 11 Pro is well worth it: I love the new three-lens camera. I can take excellent closeups with the 2X zoom, attractive wide-angle shots with the extra-wide angle lens, and much better low-light photos thanks to Night Mode. It's also fast, has longer battery life, and is just generally a joy to use. —Malarie Gokey, senior editor

Read our review: The best iPhone for every type of person and budget



39. A pair of comfortable jeans

Outerknown Selvedge S.E.A. Jeans, available at Outerknown, $168

There are two primary factors that make up a good pair of jeans: material and fit. Outerknown's Selvedge S.E.A. Jeans became my favorite pair of jeans this year because they execute both factors perfectly.

The jeans have the weight and rigidity you'd expect from any well-made selvedge, but they're made sustainably. Outerknown uses 100% organic cotton and has them produced in Saitex, the industry-leading factory in sustainable denim. At $168, they're a bit pricey, but considering I wear them all the time, they're worth it. —Amir Ismael, reporter

Outerknown is my new favorite clothing brand. First of all, the clothes are consistently soft and comfortable across the board, and founders Kelly Slater and John Moore have worked magic to make such soft fabric so durable. I haven't been kind to any of my clothes this year, but Outerknown's S.E.A. Jeans and Blanket Shirts are among the few that haven't given up so much as a thread.

I'm a big fan of its Transitional Shirts and the S.E.A. Jeans, but my favorite pieces from Outerknown have been the Blanket Shirts. These are Outerknown's iteration of a "work shirt" or "shacket," as you please, but they maintain their softness and don't pill like many other higher-end rivals. —Owen Burke, senior reporter 

Read our review: We reviewed pro surfer Kelly Slater's sustainable clothing brand — here's what the pieces look and feel like in person



40. A hairdryer that can dry thick hair quickly and without damage

Bio Ionic 10x Ultralight Speed Dryer, available at Sephora, $295

I really hate drying my hair. It's difficult for me to hold up clunky, heavy hair dryers for more than fifteen minutes, which is how long it usually takes to dry my whole head.

This Bioionic hairdryer is super light — it weighs less than one pound — and takes me less than five minutes to completely dry my hair. I used to air dry my hair 95% of the time, but there's been some research done showing how air drying your hair might damage it more than hair dryers, so I'm glad I have a fast, super light hairdryer to help me out. —Ciannah Gin, editorial fellow

Read our review: I found a hair dryer that dries super fast and weighs less than a pound, and it's made my morning routine so much easier



41. A small camera you can wear around your neck

Insta360 Go, available at Amazon, $199.99

the Insta360 Go is a tiny water-resistant camera that attaches to clothing or dangles like a necklace. It's ideal for those times when you can't hold a camera in your hands, like when you're playing with your kids or engaged in a sporting activity. It doesn't shoot 4K but in normal lighting, the stabilized video quality is still good. There are fun shooting modes and an automated feature that takes the work out of video editing, and it connects directly to phones for easy image transfers. —Les Shu, guides editor

Read our review:The 20 best new products we saw at IFA 2019



42. A grill that can quickly cook pretty much anything

Otto Wilde OFB Grill, available at Williams Sonoma, $1,195.95

The $1,200 Otto Wilde OFB Grill is my new favorite cooking appliance, although it's admittedly very expensive. It gets up to about 1600 degrees Fahrenheit, which has allowed me to sear everything from scallops to steak, and it has outdone every pizza joint in the borough of Brooklyn (*dodges rotten tomato*), all within a tiny corner of my backyard. Cooking most things takes a matter of two to five minutes, and cleanup is super fast and easy thanks to the drip tray (tip: always remember to fill it with water). —Owen Burke, senior reporter 



43. The best hydration pack to carry on strenuous hikes

10 L Hydration Pack, available at Hydro Flask, $165

Blurb: I used the 10 L Hydro Pack to hike more than seven miles through the Rocky Mountains. I was highly impressed with how my water remained cold throughout the whole day. In addition, the back panel kept my back cool and comfortable all day. —Francesca Rea, content producer 

Read our review: This Hydro Flask hydration pack kept my water cool for over 4 hours on a recent hike — it even had room for my small essentials



44. An efficient photo scanner

Epson FastFoto FF-680W Photo and Document Scanning System, available at Amazon, $499.99

Scanning photos is a chore, but the FastFoto FF-680W makes it look like child's play. As its name suggests, it's fast: Just load a stack of photos and the scanner goes through them in no time. Once scanned, you can use the included software to edit them; imagine bringing old, faded photos back to life. —Les Shu, guides editor



45. A bra made with a silky, smooth fabric

Second Skin Lightly Lined Demi Bra, available at Tommy John, $78

I first heard about the brand from one of my husband's favorite podcasts "Pod Save America," and when I got the opportunity to try it here, I was not disappointed. The Second Skin fabric feels softer than air and the bra is so well constructed that I barely have to adjust throughout the day. With other bras, I'm constantly pulling up the straps every five minutes. —Jada Wong, editor 

Read our review: Underwear startup Tommy John now makes ultra-comfortable bras — here's what each style is like to wear

 



46. A sous vide cooker that can help you cook like a pro

Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker Pro, available at Amazon, $298.92

"Sous vide" cooking may sound like a complicated technique you're better off not attempting unless you've attended Le Cordon Bleu, but it happens to be a relatively low-maintenance method that yields delicious results, especially with the help of the Anova Precision Cooker Pro. All you need is the sous vide device, a pot (or some sort of water-bearing vessel), and a large Ziploc bag to get cooking. You place the sous vide in a pot of water, then pop in a Ziploc bag holding some chicken, steak, or veggies (you can make all sorts of things with this technique), and set the device to cook your dish low and slow. Because there's no flame involved, you can turn this on and let it be for hours — running out of the house to do errands is no problem. 

The learning curve is low. The first time I tried it, I put some chicken in a bag, threw in some seasoning, put the bag in the water, turned on the sous vide. I left it alone for about an hour and a half, and in the end was greeted with some of my best culinary work: juicy, tender pieces of white meat. I truly felt like I had hacked the system. If you too are looking to make delicious meals with ease, this is well worth the splurge. —Remi Rosmarin, reporter

Read our review:This $399 sous vide helps amateur cooks like me make restaurant-quality meals with little effort — here's why it's worth the expense



47. A comfortable and supportive swimsuit

Aerie Bathing Suits, available at American Eagle, from $24.95

Aerie uses unretouched photos of women modeling its swimsuits and lingerie, which has been empowering and exciting to see on a national stage. After struggling with my own body image and not seeing myself reflected in most swimwear ads, I decided to give the brand's Longline Scoop Bikini Top and high-waisted bottoms a chance; and the duo has quickly become a favorite. Aerie really delivered on a quality swim line, and I know these pieces will last me through more than just a season or two.

The material is stretchy and snug, the bottoms are form-fitting but not taut, and the top offers supportive coverage. In terms of size, color, print, and silhouettes, the options are endless. I am forever loyal now and eager to shop the brand's new styles when the time comes. Turns out that bathing suit shopping can be fun. —Dominique McIntee, editorial fellow

Read our guide: The best women's swimsuits you can buy

 



48. A thong with the right amount of support

Air Invisible High Rise Thong, available at Tommy John, $28

I recently went wedding dress shopping, and I wore the nude pair of these undies for the occasion. They're ultra-thin, super lightweight, and you can't see any lines because the waistline is seamless. They're also high-waisted, so they're perfect under pencil skirts, tighter dresses, or thin pants. Honestly, Tommy John's underwear just can't be beat. —Sally Kaplan, editor 



49. A cozy oversized hoodie made with organic cotton

Solstice Cozy Hoodie, available at Outerknown, $138

Please pardon the fact that I had a fever in the picture above. I needed to get a photo to my coworker for our review of Outerknown's clothing, but this was all I could muster as I was on my way to the doctor — the things we do for content! Anyway, this sweatshirt is easily my most favorite clothing item of 2019. The terrycloth material is lightweight but warm, and the oversized fit couldn't be more perfect. I mean, it's the sweatshirt I opted to wear for the week I was home sick with a fever and advil-induced stomach ulcers, so I think that says something. —Sally Kaplan, editor 



50. Thin and flattering leggings

TechSweat 3/4 Leggings, available at Outdoor Voices, $85

TechSweat Two-Tone Kneecap, available at Outdoor Voices, $36

While I haven't been a fan of everything Outdoor Voices makes, the TechSweat material hits it out of the park for me. The TechSweat leggings are breathable and lightweight, and I wear them for everything from jogs to strength training. They're on the thinner side and not ultra-compressive, so I'd look elsewhere if you want thick leggings. 

The waistband is a little stiffer than the rest of the legging and stays put through a range of activities and motions. It also has a secure back pocket where I stash my key or ID while running. I own both of the styles mentioned above — since the Kneecap leggings are cropped, I reserve them for outdoor activity during warmer seasons, but I do love how flattering the design looks on my legs. —Connie Chen, senior reporter

Read our review: 5 women tried Outdoor Voices' TechSweat leggings — we unanimously agreed that they're some of the best we've ever worn



51. A fun and easy-to-fly drone

Parrot Anaifi FPV, available at B&H, $799

Parrot's drones aren't as advanced as DJI's, but I found the Anafi FPV easy to fly and it has enough fun features to satisfy most users. It's capable of shooting 4K video, and it's incredibly lightweight. With a headset, you can fly the drone with a first-person view. Although I wish it had obstacle detection, I appreciate the drone's ability to automatically track and follow a subject. —Les Shu, guides editor



52. A plant-based cleanser

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting Cleansing Gel, available at Sephora, $38

I got turned on to this cleanser by asking the only pore-less human I'd ever seen how she'd accomplished the feat, and it does not disappoint. It uses alpha and beta hydroxy acids to encourage the skin's natural shedding and support new cell growth. It's vegan, plant-based, and despite being fragrance-free, it somehow smells amazing. I try a lot of skincare products throughout the year, but this one is what I'm most excited about in 2019. —Mara Leighton, reporter

Read our review: I've washed my face with this $38 cleanser twice a day for the last 6 months — and my skin has never looked better



53. An attractive wireless charger made with leather

Catch:2 Wireless Charger, available at Courant, $150

This is the prettiest charging pad I've come across. I have the Dusty Rose color and absolutely love it. Instead of cheap-looking plastic, it's made with chic pebbled leather, and it provides enough traction so my phone doesn't shift across it when charging. It can charge two devices at the same time so it helps streamline my space. I also have the Carry, a portable battery pack that can wirelessly quick-charge my phone when I need it. —Jada Wong, editor 

 



54. A modular leather couch

Nomad Leather King Sectional, available at Burrow, $3,295

When my husband and I were buying a couch, we wanted one that would grow with us. That's why we loved Burrow's build-your-own modular couches. You can choose the number of seats you'd need and add an ottoman or chaise to customize and future-proof your investment. Even though we had to put the couch together ourselves, the customer service reps were quick to respond and super helpful when we ran into some issues. —Jada Wong, editor 

Read our review: This Burrow couch is made with full-grain leather that will last for years — here's what it feels like and why it's worth $3,800



55. A chic platform bed you'll always be excited to climb into

Modern Platform Bed, available at The Inside, $1,399

The Inside is a furniture company that makes fun, chic patterns and prints as affordable as a standard beige option. Each piece is made to order, and there's a nice selection of affordable pieces with prints from names like Clare V and Scalamandre.

Of every piece of furniture I've gotten as an adult, this one is my all-time favorite. It's unique, personable, and makes my room feel a bit more special. My advice for newcomers would be to order a swatch to check the color in person first (the images are often 3D rendered to cut more costs from the process) — or start with a pillow. —Mara Leighton, reporter

 

 



56. A furniture resale service

Pre-owned furniture at Kaiyo, prices vary

For the last few years, I've tried to prioritize shopping secondhand. Kaiyo is a furniture service that will pick up furniture you want to sell and actually handle the process of selling it (photographing, billing, coordinating a drop-off). I bought a wide dresser for a few hundred dollars. —Mara Leighton, reporter



57. A memorable and educational cooking class

Cooking classes, team building, and more at Cozymeal, prices vary

Cozymeal lets you find and book cooking classes ($65-$125 usually) with professionals in your city. You learn something new, it's intimate (perfect for a date or an anniversary gift), and it feels slightly more explorative and unique than going through a restaurant and joining a big group class. And the meal I had in Fresh Pasta 101 was one of the best in 2019. —Mara Leighton, reporter

Read our review: This website makes it easy to book fun cooking classes in your area — we learned to make pasta from a professional chef



Here's how to use your FSA dollars before you lose them at the end of the year — and get a discount on supplies you'd need to buy anyway

0
0

5bfee78c110d4c56e7795044

  • The pre-tax money you contribute to your FSA must be used on eligible healthcare products and services, which can be as mundane as Advil and as unexpected as Felix Gray or Warby Parker glasses or an at-home Zeel massage.
  • FSA dollars work on a use-it-or-lose-it provision. If you don't use your FSA money by December 31 of each year (or March 15 of the new year for many), you lose it. 
  • FSAstore.com makes it easy to spend that money before it's gone. They have over 4,000 items that are guaranteed to be covered by your FSA.
  • Through February 2020, use our code "20BINSIDER" to get $20 off orders of $250 or more. Get $50 off orders of $500 or more with the code "50BINSIDER" or $75 off $750 purchases with the code "75BINSIDER" at checkout.

It's time to use or lose your FSA dollars. Read on to learn more about what that means, and how you can avoid letting your money go to waste. 

What is FSA?

Many employers offer access to Flexible Spending Accounts, which let you put away pre-tax dollars for eligible healthcare products and services (think everything from surgery and medical bills to thermometers and first-aid kits).

Storing money in an FSA account is a great deal, provided that you spend it; FSA operates on a use-it-or-lose-it provision. You must spend the money in your FSA account by the end of the year or risk losing it for good. Many employers offer either more flexibility with a two-and-a-half-month grace period (until March 15, 2019, rather than December 31, 2019) or let you roll $500 into the next year. They can't offer both.

FSA Store estimates that more than $400 million is forfeited every year in FSA funds because employees either miss or forget their spending deadlines (based on estimates using data from the 2017 FSA and HSA Consumer Research conducted by VISA). It's your money — and it's pre-tax. It doesn't make sense not to use it. 

You can use FSA dollars to pay for medical expenses that aren't covered by a health plan, like co-pays, deductibles, dental and vision care, or dependent daycare, though eligible expenses can vary based on the plan. But if it's nearing the end of the year and you haven't used your money to help meet your deductible or pay medical expenses, you have the option of spending it on supplies like over-the-counter medication.

What can you buy with your FSA money?

The nitty-gritty details depend on the plan your employer has in place, but you can skip the burden of research by shopping the selection at the FSA store. They do the homework for you and curate more than 4,000 products that are guaranteed to be covered. If they're somehow not, you get your money back. 

Here are a few items on FSAstore.com that you can buy with your pre-tax money before you lose it: sunscreen, first aid kits, vitamins, condoms, high-tech healthcare (at-home defibrillator, nausea relief bands, vibrating shoe insoles, ovulation predictors), and travel pillows with orthopedic neck support. View all categories here.

And since the new Affordable Care Act required over-the-counter medications (like Advil and Benadryl) to come with a prescription from a doctor for FSA reimbursement, FSAstore created a Prescription Process that will contact your doctor for you, so you can get the information you need to complete the purchase. 

You can also buy things like Warby Parker or Felix Gray glasses with your FSA and HSA dollars as long as your FSA or HSA card is affiliated with a major credit card, or even book an at-home Zeel massage with it. 

How to save even more money with Business Insider's exclusive offer:

Through the end of February 2020, use our code "20BINSIDER" to get $20 off orders of $250 or more. Get $50 off orders of $500 or more with the code "50BINSIDER" or $75 off $750 purchases with the code "75BINSIDER" at checkout. (Cannot be combined with other offers).

Shop thousands of FSA-eligible items here for before you lose those dollars for good.

Join the conversation about this story »

The best first aid kits

0
0

 

  • While you never want to need a first aid kit, should that need arise, you'll be glad you planned ahead and kept some high-quality medical supplies on hand.
  • The First Aid Only All-Purpose First Aid Kit is our top choice because it's compact, carefully curated, and affordable, too.

I very much like being prepared. I keep a stocked first aid kit in my car, in my home, at the ready for travel, and packed and ready to go with my hiking gear. I also have a few bandages tucked into my wallet.

As a frequent camper and hiker, I know that having a first aid kit is not simply a good idea, but an absolute necessity. When you're a three-day hike from the nearest hospital, you'd better be able to count on your own supplies in the event of injury or illness.

When I first started heading out into the mountains, I carried a homemade first aid kit tucked into an old Altoids tin. It had all the basics, like bandages, antiseptic wipes, medical tape, anti-itch and burn relief gels, and so forth. But there were a few problems: The ointments and gels would almost invariably dry out over time, the tape and bandages would grow brittle and lose their adhesion, and every time I used this or that component, I had to be sure to later re-stock it, and it was often hard to keep track of what I needed on an ad hoc basis.

When I switched to a professionally assembled kit, I spent a few more dollars but got a lot more peace of mind.

How to choose the right first aid kit for you

A good first aid kit isn't a mobile trauma center, but it will provide the basic supplies you need to mitigate the ill effects of an accident, injury, or sudden illness. Remember, it's first aid, not final, comprehensive aid. When choosing a first aid kit, you need to think about who might depend on it (in terms of the sheer number of people and the age and disposition of the user), where it will be stored and/or carried, and in what situations the likely users might endure an injury or illness.

Any first aid kit worth considering will have the supplies needed to treat minor cuts, punctures, burns, and other such common injuries. Beyond that, the suitability of a given kit depends on careful consideration of factors ranging from weight to packaging to redundancy of the supplies included.

Choose the first aid kit that best suits the people and the situations in which they'll be, and then hope you never have to use it. With those tips in mind, read on to see which of our top picks is best for your needs.

Here are the best first aid kits you can buy in 2019:

Updated on 12/17/2019 by Jen Gushue: Updated links and prices. 

The best first aid kit overall

The First Aid Only All-Purpose First Aid Kit comes with all the basic medical supplies you need for quick diagnostics and the treatments of many maladies. 

The First Aid Only All-Purpose First Aid Kit packs 299 doctor-recommended supplies into a soft-sided case measuring just 9.25 by 7.5 inches on its sides and about three inches deep. It's about the size of a hardcover book, but within this kit, you will find the tools needed to assess and treat everything from a scraped finger to a heavily bleeding gash, and from a mild headache to a high fever.

This First Aid Only kit comes with comprehensive wound cleaning and closure supplies, including multiple butterfly strips, gauze rolls and pads, and several types of bandages, not to mention the various alcohol, antiseptic, and antibiotic wipes and ointments. It's the perfect triage kit for all sorts of common injuries.

The kit also comes with an array of supplies invaluable to the person administering first aid, such as sterile vinyl gloves, a single-use thermometer, tweezers, and nickel-plated scissors. And for all that, this first aid kit still costs less than a nice meal — and certainly less than a trip to the emergency room.

The plastic partition pockets keep everything well-sorted and easy to find in a snap, so you won't be fumbling for the right gear when time is of the essence.

WebMD suggests you should replace your first aid kit once a year and replace any missing or expired items. At its affordable cost, you could replace the entire kit once a year without breaking the bank, maintaining a nice peace of mind in your home or workplace.

Pros: Compact but comprehensive, great low price, well organized

Cons: Limited shelf life, included tape is not as adhesive as it could be



The best first aid kit for the office

The Be Smart Get Prepared 250 Piece First Aid Kit is OSHA and ANSI compliant and covers the first aid needs of up to 50 people, making it perfect for the office.

The Be Smart Get Prepared Kit is a large, comprehensive first aid kit designed to meet the needs of several dozen people. It's a great choice for businesses, retail locations, schools, churches, and even for the home, though it's not a good choice for travel due to its bulky hard case.

The case helps keep the components organized and protected, it's not watertight or resistant to moisture or temperature fluctuations which can affect some of the components, so it needs to be stored in a temperate indoor environment.

The Be Smart Get Prepared 250 Piece First Aid Kit has all the wound care components you would expect, from alcohol prep pads to antiseptic towelettes to multiple bandages in varied sizes.

What sets this kit apart from the others in terms of suitability for use in the office or at a school are the medicines it comes with. Many of these medicines — like pain and anti-inflammatory tablets and antacids — you will likely have ready access to at home, but not at work, school, or on other such locations.

It also includes cold packs, another handy feature for use when ice might not be nearby.

A writer with SurvivalBlog.com appreciated how the kit was "organized in compartments ... inside the sturdy plastic case," while a description from Survival Safety Supplies noted its "comprehensive selection of first aid items."

Pros: Great choice for the workplace, comes with a selection of medicines, hard plastic shell protects components

Cons: Case is bulky and not water-resistant, latch is prone to failure



The best first aid kit for the car

With the TripWorthy Compact Travel First Aid Kit in your car, truck, or boat, you'll be ready to face minor medical emergencies even when you're miles from home.

While I wouldn't recommend the Trip Worthy Compact Travel First Aid Kit for the hiker or the mountaineer, it's the perfect choice when traveling by car, boat, or even by bike or canoe. There are plenty of completely waterproof first aid kits designed expressly for use on the water, but as they tend to be bulkier, I'm recommending this one for the boat and/or the car — just try to keep it dry.

The kit is a bit too big for a trekker's backpack, but it's the perfect size for stashing in the trunk, under the seat, or in a bicycle's panniers.

It features six different types of adhesive bandages, gauze pads, butterfly strips, wraps, and tape, so covering a wound up will be easy. Cleaning out minor wounds won't be an issue either, thanks to the wipes and ointments that come tucked away in this compact kit.

The TripWorthy Compact Travel First Aid Kit comes with a compass, an emergency blanket, a poncho, a rescue whistle, and a glow stick, all of which can help make the difference in a survival situation you endure while far from the comforts — and the supplies — of home. That moleskin blister pad won't hurt, either.

I do wish the kit had any itch relief ointments and burn gels included, but you can always add those later. I also found, due to the compact nature of the kit, that its contents were packed very tightly to save space. This could lead to some fumbling when trying to find what you're looking for.

Pros: Comes with great survival gear, compact but comprehensive, features multiple bandage types

Cons: Packed tightly making it hard to quickly locate items



The best first aid kit for disaster preparedness

If you are cut off from emergency services following a natural disaster or in times of civil unrest, you'll be glad you have the Lightning X First Responder First Aid Kit.

Whether you foresee a time when there won't be anyone on the other end of the line when you dial 9-1-1 or if you just really like to be prepared for any potential accident or illness, keeping the Lightning X First Responder First Aid Kit at home is the way to go. Yes, this kit is overkill for most households, but it's also pretty much the last kit you'd ever need to buy (not counting the items that merit periodic replacement, like alcohol wipes).

Anyone in need of first aid or preparing to administer it will appreciate the many bandages, the rolls and pads of gauze, the antiseptic wipes, the ointments, the tapes, and more. The person with some actual medical training will appreciate the stethoscope, the sphygmomanometer, the airway kit, and other more advanced medical tools. In the right hands, this kit is essentially a mobile trauma center, but in any hands, it's got all your basic and intermediate first aid needs covered.

This comprehensive first aid kit comes loaded in a lightweight, ergonomic backpack with padded straps and reflective stripes, so should you need to take it on the go, you'll be comfortable and highly visible. While it's a great choice for the well-prepared home, this kit was designed for emergency response professionals to use in the field, after all.

Pros: Comprehensive supplies, features advanced medical gear, comes with backpack

Cons: Pricier than other options, many components not needed for basic first aid



The best first aid kit on a budget

The Coleman All Purpose Mini First Aid Kit costs less than a fancy cup of coffee, but it can help you treat all sorts of minor scrapes, scratches, bug bites, and more.

If you need to treat a compound fracture, you're probably going to need a more advanced medical kit than this one. But more often than not, the damage we endure is more along the lines of minor cuts and scrapes, burns and bites, and the occasional puncture wound. For those everyday injuries, the Coleman All Purpose Mini First Aid Kit is the ideal choice.

It costs so little that there's really no excuse not to buy one, and given the diminutive size of this kit, you can (and should) bring one along whenever your travels might lead you away from ready access to medical treatment.

Into a charming little tin, Coleman has packed several antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, sting relief wipes, and a total of sixteen bandages in five different size and shape varieties. There is also a razor blade you might use to cut away clothing or trim medical tape and gauze (not included) and a pair of safety pins that you probably won't use.

A video reviewer with Abel Adventures appreciated the small size and light weight of the Coleman kit, noted that it's made in the United States, and said it was certainly worth the little he paid for it.

Pros: Very affordable, lightweight and compact, perfect for travel

Cons: Not at all comprehensive



Check out our guide to the best emergency kits you can have at the ready

The best emergency kits you can buy

An emergency kit is something you should have around, in case an unexpected dangerous event happens. You can make your own, or purchase a preassembled kit that has everything you may need. We've rounded up the best emergency kits you can find preassenbled.




Disney+ now has gift subscriptions for the holidays — here's how to buy one for the Disney fan in your life

0
0

disney plus gift

  • If you're looking for a convenient last-minute gift, Disney now offers a gift subscription for one year of Disney+
  • The annual subscription costs $69.99 and is sent in the form of an email voucher code. The gift can only be redeemed by new Disney+ subscribers. 
  • The popular new streaming subscription features unlimited, ad-free access to thousands of movies and series (including original, exclusive programming), and the ability to stream on up to four devices simultaneously and add up to seven profiles. 
  • Pair the gift subscription with a Disney, Marvel, or Star Wars gift to delight the Disney fan in your life. 

More than 10 million people signed up for Disney's new streaming service, Disney+, during its first day of launch in November. But if you know someone who still hasn't subscribed, you can help them tune into all the Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars content they've been craving. 

Disney now offers a gift subscription for one year of Disney+. It costs $69.99 and is sent as an email subscription card to your recipient. Learn more about the gift subscription below. 

Here's how to gift a Disney+ annual subscription:

  1. Visit this page to purchase the gift
  2. You'll enter your information, your recipient's name and email, and what date you'd like the email to be delivered. 
  3. Your recipient will visit DisneyPlus.com/redeememail, select the offer, and manually enter the code printed on the email. 
  4. The $69.99 fee will be credited to your account whenever your recipient redeems the subscription. 

Restrictions of the Disney+ gift subscription:

  1. The gift subscription can only be redeemed by new Disney+ subscribers. 
  2. The redemption code is one-time use only and non-transferable. 

Once they've activated the subscription, your recipient will get:

  • Unlimited, ad-free access to thousands of movies and series from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and 20th Century Fox. This includes original programming exclusive to the Disney+ platform. 
  • Unlimited downloads to they can watch anywhere, anytime.
  • The ability to stream on up to four devices simultaneously and add up to seven profiles.

Since the subscription offer is delivered right to their email, it makes an excellent last-minute gift for anyone who loves watching Disney movies and shows. It may not be a physical gift, but it is an entertainment experience worth trying. 

SEE ALSO: If you've ordered a Christmas present that won't arrive on time, this clever hack ensures they'll still have a gift to open

Shop more Disney gifts:

  1. The best holiday toys from Disney
  2. Cool gifts for 'Star Wars' fans of all ages
  3. Fun Disney gifts that grown-up fans will love
  4. The gifts every Disney dad will love
  5. Unique gifts Marvel fans will love
  6. Baby Yoda gifts for 'The Mandalorian' fans


Send your recipient all the best shows and movies to watch on Disney Plus:

  1. All the new movies you can watch on Disney Plus — from the live-action 'Lady and the Tramp' to holiday comedy 'Noelle'
  2. All the new shows you can watch on Disney Plus — from 'The Mandalorian' to new Pixar shorts
  3. All the kids' movies you can stream on Disney Plus — from 'Snow White' to 'Frozen'
  4. All the new kids' shows you can watch on Disney Plus — from 'Vampirina' to the new reboot of 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars'
  5. All the Marvel movies and shows you can stream on Disney Plus — from 'Iron Man' to the new 'Loki'
  6. Every single Star Wars movie will be available on Disney Plus
  7. All the Pixar films and shorts you can stream on Disney Plus — from 'Toy Story' to 'Inside Out'


Read everything else you should know about Disney Plus:

  1. Disney Plus: Everything you need to know about Disney's new ad-free streaming service
  2. How to get a free week of Disney Plus
  3. Disney Plus costs $7 a month on its own, but you can bundle it with Hulu and ESPN+ for an extra $6
  4. How to get the Disney Plus bundle with ESPN Plus and the ad-free version of Hulu
  5. How to use the Disney Plus app to download and watch movies and shows offline


32 unique gifts that both dogs and their humans will love

0
0

k9 sports bag

  • It's a no-brainer to give a dog owner something that has to do with dogs. 
  • It's more difficult to find a unique dog-related gift that they (or their dog) don't already have. We found 32 useful, thoughtful, and funny gifts that they'll both love. 
  • Looking for more gift ideas for everyone in your life? Check out the Insider Picks 2019 holiday gift guide

When it comes to gifting the dog owner in your life, you know that few things would make them happier than something that either speaks to them as a dog fanatic or directly benefits their pups. Sure, you could get them the usual, tried-and-true calendar of cute dog photos or a fun chew toy and call it a day, or you can go the more unconventional route. 

With these unique gifts, you can ensure their dog is always hydrated, comfortable, and entertained. Meanwhile, there are also a few gifts in here for the owners themselves, to remind them of their utter devotion to the world's greatest animal.

The 5 best gifts for dogs and dog owners: 

  1. A blueprint of a specific dog breed, $185
  2. A toy that makes bath time more enjoyable, $11
  3. An activity monitor and GPS tracker, $50
  4. A Casper dog mattress to match the owner's Casper human mattress, from $125
  5. Baking molds to make bone-shaped treats, $16

Next time you want to gift a dog parent, check out these 32 gift ideas first:

A blueprint of a specific dog breed

Dog Blueprint, $185, available at UncommonGoods

These detailed, mid-century blueprints include "design specs" and information about the breed origins and temperament. There are over 100 dog breeds are available to choose from. 



A hoodie with a pouch to hold your dog

Roodie Pet Pouch Hoodie, $99, available at Amazon

Comfy for both them and their small dog, the hoodie is made from cotton and polyester and lets them carry their pup around like a little kangaroo. 



A Casper dog mattress to match the owner's Casper human mattress

Dog Mattress, starting at $125, available at Casper

The only dog bed that could rival a human's mattress is Casper's memory foam model. It was made after 110 prototypes and 460 hours of lab testing, so rest assured both man and man's best friend can sleep easy tonight. 



A camera that keeps tabs on the dog and can also toss treats to it

Furbo Treat-Tossing Dog Camera, $149, available at Amazon

If they're ever at work or on vacation and wonder what their pet is up to at that exact moment, they'll want this dog camera. With the free Furbo app, they can monitor their pet with a 160º wide-angle view, communicate with him through the two-day voice chat, and throw treats to him to show they miss him. 

 



A dog DNA test

Embark Dog DNA Test Kit, starting at $129, available at Embark

If they're not sure of their dog's origins, they can use this test to figure out the exact breed. It's also helpful for learning about potential health risks, sensitivities to medication, and other important factors that will help their dog live his best life



A sleek and durable kit of walk essentials

Harness Walk Kit, $98

Wild One makes accessories that immediately stand out at the dog park because they don't look cheap or come in garish colors. The harness, leash, and poop bag carrier in this basic "Walk Kit" are made from soft, comfortable, and durable materials so both dog and owner can enjoy many strolls and runs down the line. 



A handy grooming tool

Aquapaw Pet Bathing Tool, $24.95, available at Amazon

Neither owner nor dog will ever dread bath time again with the introduction of this well-designed tool. The sprayer-scrubber combo fits in their palm so they have full control of the water and can scrub at the same time, speeding up the chore they usually hate. 



Glasses decorated with dog illustrations

Hair of the Dog Double Old Fashioned Glasses (Set of 4), $56, available at Nordstrom

This one pulls double duty for a whiskey lover and a dog lover. The beautiful glasses feature descriptions of each dog. Delilah, for example, is a "persistent blanket stealer" and "expects pancakes by noon." 



A water bottle that easily turns into a water bowl

Dog Bowl Water Bottle, $20, available at UncommonGoods

It's important to keep their dog hydrated while on the go. Just squeeze the bottle to fill the attached dish to their desired height, and their dog can easily drink up. It's leak-proof and any excess water will drain back into the bottle. 



An 'Isle of Dogs'-inspired pin

NERDPINS I Love Dogs Pin, $10, available at Etsy

Fans of both dogs and the Wes Anderson film will love this small enamel pin. 

 



An activity monitor and GPS tracker

Whistle 3 GPS Pet Tracker & Activity Monitor, $49.98, available at Amazon

A fit, healthy dog is a happy dog. Not only does the Whistle track his activity and rest, but it also tracks his location so they don't have to worry when he runs astray. They'll get a text or email notification when he moves out of a designated area, so they can catch him before he gets too far. 



A helpful way to remember whether they fed the dog

The Original - Did You Feed the Dog?, $9.95, available at Amazon

It can be difficult keeping track of whether the dog has been fed yet when they live in a large, busy household. The slider, which they can mount on the wall in front of their dog's food bowls, is a simple way to communicate whether or not the chore has been completed. 



A plastic launcher that helps them play fetch for hours

Canine Hardware Chuckit! Launcher, $8.52, available at Amazon

It's okay to admit it. Picking up the ball and throwing it long distances over and over again gets tiring. However, since their dog seems to have endless energy and doesn't want to stop playing catch anytime soon, they can cheat a little with this light and flexible accessory that grabs the ball and releases it as they swing. 



A stroller that's easy to enter and exit

Pet Gear Excursion No Zip Pet Stroller, $239.70, available at Amazon

The dog can be loaded into the front or back of the stroller, making it especially easy for older or injured pets to enter and exit the vehicle. She can still get outside and enjoy fresh air without straining herself with this spacious, durable stroller. 



A dog leash and key holder

SportHooks Dog Leash & Key Holder, $15.99, available at Chewy

An organized leash and key set-up means they won't have to waste a minute of precious daylight untangling leashes or tracking down keys and can quickly get out the door for their daily dog walk. 

 



A fun book about dog behavior

How to Speak Dog: A Guide to Decoding Dog Language, $9.67, available at Amazon

They probably won't be able to actually bark at and communicate with their dog, but they can better understand what their dog is trying to tell them through its body language and behavior. The Nat Geo book reminds everyone in a delightful yet informative way that the dog-owner relationship is a two-way street.

 



Baking molds

Le Dogue 2-Pack Silicone Dog Paw and Bone Molds With Recipe Booklet, $15.99, available at Amazon

If their dog has food sensitivities (or is simply really picky), the owner might be more comfortable making treats at home. They can bake healthy, delicious dog biscuits or freeze fruit treats for the summer and get creative with different recipes. 

Note: May arrive after Christmas



Magnets that look like a dog is stuck in their fridge

Dog Tail Magnet, $17, available at Amazon

These cute and quirky magnets are sure to surprise guests and make any dog owner smile. 

Note: May arrive after Christmas



A backpack to carry their dog

K9 Sport Sack, $69.95, available at Amazon

This backpack is perfect for adventurous dogs who like to join their owners as they bike, hike, and even rock-climb or zip-line. With fully ventilated sides and a safety ring to hook up a collar, it's vet-approved and comes in four different sizes. 

Note: May arrive after Christmas



Custom dog stickers

My Sticker Face Custom Vinyl Photo Stickers, $17.99, available at Amazon

Submit a clear, well-lit photo of the dog's face, then let the team do the rest of the work. Afterwards, they'll want to slap these thoughtful and fun personalized stickers everywhere. 

Note: May arrive after Christmas



A window for curious dogs

PetPeek Fence Window, $36.99, available at Amazon

They want to keep their dog confined to some degree, but they also don't want her to miss out on the outside world. Install this window so she can still check out what's going on, whether that's greeting the neighbors or watching out for her favorite mailman. 

Note: May arrive after Christmas



Matching holiday sweaters

Blueberry Pet Unisex Holiday Christmas Sweater (Left), $32.99, available at Amazon

Blueberry Pet Holiday Festive Christmas Collections Sweater (Right), $12.99, available at Amazon

Dogs often look like their owners, and with these festive matching sweaters, there's no questioning the resemblance.

Note: May arrive after Christmas



A Pillow Pet of a lovable animated character

The Secret Life of Pets Duke Pillow Pet, $23.99, available at Walmart

The large and lovable mutt can be their dog's or their kid's sleeping companion. 



A set of fur-sonalized cufflinks

Custom Pet Portrait Cufflinks, $260, available at UncommonGoods

Help them wear their heart on their sleeve with custom cufflinks that proudly show off their pooch. 

This gift goes beyond just cufflinks — the order includes the custom rubber stamp that the artisan creates to emboss the cufflinks so they can personalize cards, scrapbooks, and more.



A cute laundry bag

Canvas Laundry Bag, $11.69, available at Amazon

This canvas laundry basket is an adorable take on an otherwise boring, everyday household item.



A doormat for two- and four-legged roommates

Wipe Your Paws Coir Doormat, $29.78, available at Amazon

This coconut husk doormat features a friendly reminder for guests to wipe their feet before entering. Now, if only their dog could read...



A toy that makes bath time more enjoyable

Slow Treater, $10.95, available at UncommonGoods

Help make bath time less painful with this treat toy. Dog parents will love that it distracts their little furball so they can be bathed properly, and dogs will just love the treats. 



Bandanas that match their humans' underwear

BuddyBands, $14, available at MeUndies

Underwear brand MeUndies has a line of bandanas for furry friends in 12 different colors and patterns that match their human's underwear. Each month, the brand also releases a limited-edition bandana exclusively for MeUndies members.



A funny mug

Novelty mug, $11.99, available at Amazon

Nothing gets the day started like a cup of coffee. Gift this funny mug to your dog-loving friend so their coworkers know exactly why they showed up to work that day.



An apron covered in dogs

Dog Day's Kitchen Apron, $18.85, available at Amazon

This dog-patterned apron comes with a large front pocket that can hold recipe cards, measuring spoons, or dog treats.



A sticker set of pit bulls doing yoga

American Pit Bull Terrier Yoga Stickers, $6.99, available at Society6

What better way to display the gentle nature of dogs by slapping these pit pull stickers doing yoga on, well, just about everything?



A pair of socks embroidered with their dog's breed

Choose Your Dog Breed Socks, $12, available at UncommonGoods

A pair of socks embroidered with their dog's breed suddenly makes a purely functional gift way more thoughtful and fun. 



Looking for more gift ideas? We've got you covered.



38 unique holiday gifts new moms will undoubtedly appreciate

0
0

google home mini

Becoming a mother is exhilarating — in a strange way that wraps joy, fear, and a flurry of many other emotions all into one confused jumble. When gifting a new mother, consider that she's going through a lot right now as she navigates her new role.

Her first holiday season is a time for celebration, but it's also an opportunity to help her relax, indulge, and make her job a little easier. Some of these gifts are specifically related to the baby, while others are simply geared toward a mother who has earned her "me time." New moms are among the busiest people in our lives, and they undoubtedly deserve these gifts. 

The 5 best gifts for a new mom: 

  1. A five-year journal, $13
  2. A comfortable and stylish maternity bralette, $35
  3. A trusted service to find a good babysitter, from $25
  4. Mom- and baby-friendly bubble bath, $6
  5. A long-distance touch lamp, from $85

Help a new mom celebrate her first holiday season with the following thoughtful gifts.

A five-year journal

Gift the Q&A a Day for Moms: A 5-Year Journal, $12.60

Answer a different question in a few words every day. When the next year rolls around, answer the question again. She'll be amazed at how much has (or hasn't) changed. 

 



A personalized T-shirt

Gift a personalized Fitted Crew at Known Supply, $32 + $10 monogram

A small, personal touch, like her name or nickname embroidered on a comfortable Pima cotton basic tee, is all that's needed to make her smile. 

 



A selection of soft, high-quality baby clothing basics

Gift a Primary gift card, $25-$250

Shopping for baby clothing is a lot less stressful at Primary, which was founded by two moms. The adorable, colorful, and gender-neutral styles are classic and made from safe, soft fabrics. Even as her baby grows, she can continue shopping at Primary because it offers sizes up through age 12. 



Merino-wool sneakers

Gift Allbirds Wool Runners, $95

Gift Smallbirds Wool Runners, $55

When you're on your feet all day, a pair of good shoes makes all the difference. Allbirds wool runners won't fail her — they're soft, comfortable, and machine washable. You can't go wrong with the originals but the new Tree line is similarly light and comfortable. While you're at it, get the Smallbirds version since their kid will be up and running in no time. 

 



A variety of Korean sheet masks for an at-home spa day

Gift the Facetory 7 Lux 1-Month Gift Subscription, $19.90

She could try a different Korean sheet mask every day of the week if she wanted to. The unique sheets made with innovative ingredients are hard to find anywhere else — Facetory curates only the most interesting and most effective in the K-beauty world. 



The best socks she's never tried

Gift a Bombas Gift Box, from $68

They may just seem like a basic, everyday accessory, but socks are among the most underrated gifts you can give. Bombas spent two years perfecting their gym socks, and we think they got it right. With thoughtful innovations, like a blister tab and performance cushioned footbeds, her feet will notice the difference., Bombas also donates a pair to a homeless shelter for every pair purchased. 

 



A soothing weighted blanket

Gift the YnM Weighted Blanket, $99.90

Weighted blankets use the same type of deep-touch therapy that creates the comfort experienced by swaddling babies, letting Mom sleep as well as her baby at night. This popular blanket has been shown to calm anxiety and stress and can result in deeper, more relaxing sleep. 

 



Adorable leather baby moccasins

Gift Freshly Picked baby moccasins, from $41.30

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

 



A luxurious bathrobe

Gift the Snowe Bathrobe, $98

Deemed the best and most absorbent terry robe on the market, Snowe's bathrobe is super comfortable and fluffy. It's perfect for a mom looking for moments of relaxation during an otherwise hectic day. 

 



A Disney+ gift subscription

Gift one year of Disney Plus, $69.99 

The baby might be too young (for now) to understand anything that's really going on in the movie, but watching Disney and Pixar classics will still be a great bonding activity for the pair. 

 



A low-maintenance succulent garden

Gift The Sill Succulent Assortment, $30

For a dash of greenery without the difficult maintenance, these succulents do just the trick. She can arrange them all together in a group, or scatter them throughout the home. 

If you'd prefer to go the traditional, flower-bouquet route, we suggest checking out The Bouqs Co. and UrbanStems

 



A comfortable and stylish maternity bralette

Gift the LIVELY Mesh Trim Maternity Bralette, $35

This bralette from the brand that's giving Victoria's Secret a run for its money (and was in fact founded by a former senior merchant at VS) is pretty, soft, and functional, with drop-down cups to allow easy feeding and strong straps for extra support. 

 



A necklace that subtly hints at the unbreakable bond between mother and child

Gift the AUrate 14-Karat Connection Necklace, $380

This beautiful necklace, available in yellow, white, or rose gold, manages to be simultaneously elegant and bold. The company has ideals she'll support, too: Its ethical solid gold is sourced from conflict-free suppliers and it donates a book to a child in need with each purchase. 



An on-the-go makeup kit

Gift the Stowaway Cosmetics Look Effortless Running Errands Set, $29

Looking effortless while running errands sounds like an impossible feat, but it's actually achievable with Stowaway's travel-friendly makeup essentials. This set includes a mascara, cheek rouge, cream lipstick, and makeup pouch. 

 



Crib sheets from an Internet-famous bedding startup

Gift the Brooklinen Mini Crib Sheet Set, $32

Adults love Brooklinen sheets, and now her baby can enjoy the soft and comfortable experience, too. If she doesn't yet have a set herself, include a gift that would help her sleep as well

 



A beauty subscription box with full-sized products, not tiny samples

Gift a FabFitFun certificate or gift card, $25-$300

Beauty and wellness samples are always fun to try, but when you're a new mom, you simply don't have the time to experiment back and forth or deal with the inconvenience of samples that run out. For $49.99 each season, FabFitFun members get a box filled with eight to ten full-sized, premium products across beauty, fitness, wellness, and home categories. 

 



A long-distance touch lamp

Buy a set of two Filimin Long-Distance Touch Lamps, $85-$170

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

 



A modern baby book

Gift the Artifact Uprising Baby Book: The Story of You, from $99

With a sturdy fabric bound cover (available in four color/foil pairings), this interactive journal is a beautiful way to focus on the everyday moments rather than typical milestones of a baby's life. The book includes 100 pages and a complimentary set of Everyday Prints. 

 



A smart home device

Gift the Amazon Echo Dot (3rd Gen), $24.99

Hands-free music streaming, news and weather reports, phone calls, and messages are the way to go. Smart home devices like the Echo Dot and Google Home Mini further streamline tasks for the queen of multi-tasking in your life. 

 

 



A versatile solution to a diaper bag

Gift the ToteSavvy, from $72

This water-resistant tote insert has an insulated bottle pocket, key clasp, changing mat, cell phone pocket, and flat pocket for paperwork, allowing moms to convert their usual handbag into a diaper bag, with little fuss. Even once she stops using it as a diaper bag, it's still useful

 



A funny coloring book about the realities of motherhood

Gift Mom Life: A Snarky Adult Coloring Book, $8.99

Any mom knows that motherhood is not all rainbows and sunshine. This hilariously relatable coloring book is filled with illustrations that are not only relaxing but also entertaining to color. 

 



A trusted service to find a good babysitter

Gift a UrbanSitter gift card, $25-$200

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



New, top-quality cookware she'll use over and over again

Gift the Made In Starter Kit, $260

The bundle from one of our favorite kitchen startups contains three stainless steel cookware essentials, a frying pan, sauce pan, and stock pot. Expect top-quality heat distribution and easy cleanup. 

 



Dinner on the table in under an hour

Gift a HelloFresh Gift Card, from $60.93

With so many new parenting responsibilities to juggle, cooking a full meal may fall by the wayside. A HelloFresh meal kit means she won't have to stop by the grocery store for a week. 

 



A women's multivitamin subscription

Gift a one-month supply of Ritual vitamins, $30

The founder of Ritual was herself pregnant when she started the company and formulated this multivitamin containing the nine nutrients women aren't getting enough of through their diets. These transparently sourced vitamins will keep Mom healthy and glowing as she navigates new motherhood. 

 



A fitness app that lets her listen in on professional workout classes

Gift an annual membership to Aaptiv, $99.99

Flexibility is paramount for busy moms, but in-person workout classes don't offer that, and are often expensive. Aaptiv is an audio fitness app that gives unlimited access to thousands of audio-based fitness classes led by certified professional trainers so she can sweat it out on her own time. 

 



Smart leggings that act as a personal yoga instructor

Gift the NADI X Yoga Pants, $250

These Bluetooth-enabled smart yoga leggings have tiny haptic multi-node sensors embedded in the nylon layers in the hip, knee, and ankle. They vibrate when a pose is not in alignment, ensuring that avid yogis always have good form. 

 



A blazer that adapts to her every move

Gift the Athleta Cosmic Blazer, $96.99

Athleta's Commute/Work collection blends the sleek silhouettes of workwear with the stretchy, wrinkle-resistant fabrics of fitness apparel in a marriage that's optimal for every mother's constantly changing schedule. Throw on this performance blazer (complete with hidden pockets) and she'll instantly look and feel more put-together. 



Stress relief in portable balm form

Gift the Scentered Aromatherapy Balm Sticks Gift Set, $80

Scentered's balm sticks come in five functions — Focus, Sleep Well, Love, Escape, and De-Stress — and help her relax wherever she is. Each non-greasy balm contains up to 25 essential oils and is formulated with a blend of moringa and moisturizing shea butter. 

 



A book that helps new moms who are going back to work

Gift "Work. Pump. Repeat.: The New Mom's Survival Guide to Breastfeeding and Going Back to Work," $14.81

This book gives practical tips and creative ideas about how to breastfeed as a working woman. They're woven through the author's personal anecdotes of working and traveling in developing countries. 

 



A 'floral' arrangement to satisfy her sweet tooth

Gift the Sugarfina Floral 2-Piece Candy Bento Box, $20

She gets all the important types of candy types in this variety box: sweet, tart, rich, melty, and gummy. This candy "bouquet" contains indulgent But First, Rosé gummy roses and Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels. 



A pair of embroidered makeup towels

Gift the Weezie Makeup Towels, $40

We've personally discovered Weezie's makeup towels are unexpectedly useful, and so will your recipient. These small, dark towels won't reveal unsightly makeup stains and they come in three cute embroidered styles. 



A luxe shower cap

Gift the Shhhowercap, $43

Trust us, a shower cap isn't a strange gift — not when it's the stylish and fitted Shhhowercap made from premium nanotech fabric. She probably never puts much thought into this bath and hair accessory, but all she will know is that she won't be able to go back to regular, cheap ones. 



A nightlight that will help her baby — and in turn, her — sleep well

Gift the Hatch Baby Rest Sound Machine, Night Light and Time-to-Rise, $59.99

Rest is a nightlight, sound machine, and wake-up alert that grows with children — from soft light and white noise for midnight newborn-feeding sessions to a preschooler's nightlight. Parents can customize everything — color, brightness, sound, and volume level — or they can choose from presets recommended by sleep experts. 



A reusable smart notebook

Gift the Rocketbook Everlast Reusable Smart Notebook, $26.99

Handwritten notes can help keep her organized and manage a seemingly endless to-do list. It's a $30 notebook, but surprisingly handy: it sends notes to the cloud and wipes clean with a damp cloth. 

 



The gift of a memorable experience anywhere in the world

Book an Airbnb Experience

Whether it's right in her town or her dream vacation destination, Airbnb offers tons of unique experiences, from food and history tours to outdoor adventures. Find some inspiration here or browse the site directly to give a gift she won't forget. 



Bubble bath made from plant-based ingredients

Gift the Hello Bello Bubble Bath, $5.98

Hello Bello, the new baby line from Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard, prides itself on making premium, plant-based products like body wash, baby lotion, wipes, and this bubble bath. The gentle formula is safe even on sensitive skin, so both mom and baby can enjoy a nourishing but playful time in the bathtub. 



A pretty smart watch that will help her manage her busy schedule and digital life

Gift the Rose Gold Samsung Galaxy Watch (42mm), $249

Life is busier than ever for a new mother. If she's an Android user, the best corresponding smart watch to gift is Samsung's Galaxy Watch, which keeps her connected to and aware of everything going on in her digital life, from how many steps she walked today to the next event on her calendar. Not only powerful and versatile, boasting a long battery life, it's also sleek and stylish. 



Looking for more gift ideas? We've got you covered.



Chrissy Teigen revealed what life as an ultra-wealthy celebrity is really like and utterly roasted herself in the process

0
0

Chrissy Teigen

Chrissy Teigen is extremely online — or, at the very least, extremely on Twitter.

She has 12.1 million followers on the platform and is well-known for her wit: Her Twitter bio is "currently sleeping with the sexiest man alive," after all.

She recently came to Taylor Swift's defense regarding an alt-right vlogger's comments directed at Swift's reproductive health and separately met public backlash of her own for tone-deaf comments about her mother treating $159 AirPods as "disposable."

Her active online presence, however, makes her a relatively accessible celebrity. Last week, when someone tweeted "do celebrities have junk drawers?" and tagged Teigen, she responded with a photo of said junk drawer and a cheeky: "it's celebrity question asking time! Ask me, your favorite A-list celebrity, anything you would like to know about being a super huge A-list celebrity."

Teigen, however facetious the initial tweet was, then actually spent the next several hours answering fan questions about the lifestyles of the rich and famous.

Here's a look at what she had to say about how her family travels, how she leverages her celebrity status, and exactly how many people she enlists to help with the day-to-day.

SEE ALSO: Every time Chrissy Teigen and John Legend have opened up about their relationship

DON'T MISS: 'It's like going camping': Miranda Kerr said she and Evan Spiegel mop their floors with eucalyptus oil and turn off almost all the electricity in their house at night — and people have questions

Teigen knows she lives a life many dream of — when asked about the perk she feels guiltiest about, she answered: "Money."

 



On the other hand, she dubbed the ease with which her family travels to be the best perk — they even use a private TSA screening process at the airport and are then escorted to their flight.

When someone asked how celebrities travel on planes, she responded by cluing her followers in about a secret terminal where a hefty membership fee allows for private security screening and an escort to the plane — she qualified her obviously bougie answer with an "I know. I know."

She also included that other travelers never give her adorable (and also famous) children "nasty looks on the plane," and named that the best perk of her celebrity, although she finds it "crazy unfair because they are just as annoying as other kids on a plane."

Teigen also revealed that she foots the bill whenever traveling with a glam squad.



Teigen also responded candidly about the family's daily life, detailing how they manage finances and even how they deal with simple things like mail.

Teigen wrote that a house manager is the point-person for the family but also wrote about others on the payroll, including an accountant.

The accountant, Teigen wrote, provides her with summaries of her spending and income. The arrangement with the house manager and accountant eliminates the need for her to deal with any kind of mail.



Beyond business needs, the family addresses personal needs with assistants and nannies.

At any given time, there are four nannies under Teigen's employ to help with her two kids. She wrote that the fleet of nannies don't all work simultaneously and that they will rotate who stays through the night.

While nannies primarily help with the kids, an assistant handles other day-to-day endeavors like grocery shopping and gift shopping — "but it's funny when it's the assistant's bday and you gotta go yourself," Teigen quipped.

When someone asked if there is "an agency that trains people to be an A-List celebrity's assistant," Teigen wrote that she typically finds people that burn out working for agents.



Teigen provided some witty responses to people's burning questions — including whether or not she has access to an apocalyptic billionaire bunker.

When someone asked if there is a "secret bunker for the rich" to go to in an apocalyptic scenario, Teigen responded: "If there is, I don't know about it!" (Surprise, there are actually multiple bunkers built by billionaires prepping for doomsday). 

"But I love a conspiracy theory," she continued. "John still hasn't told me if he's Illuminati."

Teigen also addressed how celebrities communicate with other celebrities — while not all communication is facilitated by assistants and publicists, Teigen joked "I don't talk to many people because I don't want them to think I'm a thirsty weirdo."



She also addressed common misconceptions about being a celebrity, revealing that she doesn't pay extra for buzzy restaurant reservations or own an infinite number of ball gowns.

When asked if she pays restaurants to get reservations, Teigen answered that she leverages her celebrity status instead. She explained that she calls the restaurant and doesn't "give them the option to say no."

Those restaurant reservations seem few and far between, however. She also wrote that she doesn't go out publicly much, maybe once a month — "only if I worked earlier and have my hair and makeup done already."

Regarding the misconception that she has a Kardashian-sized closet, Teigen revealed that since she is no longer sample size post-pregnancy, she purchases what she wears — and then turns around to sell it on The RealReal. She then donates that money to charity.



The incredible story of YouTube's early days and how it rose to become the world's most popular place to watch video (GOOG)

0
0

Susan Wojcicki

  • YouTube has more than 2 billion monthly users visiting the video-sharing platform for their favorite vlogs, music videos, sports highlights, and more.
  • YouTube was founded nearly 15 years ago above a California pizza shop by three early PayPal employees. Since then, it's become the most popular free video-sharing platform in the world.
  • Take a look at the history of YouTube, from its start as a failed video-dating website to a powerhouse platform that's launched a new generation of money-making YouTubers and influencers.
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

In its 15-year history, YouTube has become the undisputed king of online video.

It has over 2 billion monthly users who watch hundreds of hundreds of millions of hours of content every single day.

But many people don't know how YouTube got its start.

The company rose like a rocket ship after its founding in 2005, and was bought by Google scarcely a year later.

Under Google, YouTube went from being a repository of amateur video to a powerhouse of original content, not to mention a launching pad for its own new brand of superstar, like PewDiePie.

Here is how YouTube got its explosive start, and maintained that momentum to become the biggest force in online video.

SEE ALSO: 21-year-old YouTuber MrBeast was one of the most-viewed YouTube creators in 2019 — check out how he got his start and found success with elaborate stunts and giveaways

February 2005: Three early employees at e-payment startup PayPal — Chad Hurley, Steve Chen, and Jawed Karim — start working on a free video-sharing site called YouTube. Hurley registers the trademark, logo, and domain for YouTube on Valentine's Day while sitting in YouTube's first headquarters above a pizzeria in California. Hurley becomes YouTube's first CEO.

Source: USA Today, Engadget



February 2005: The cofounders initially think of YouTube as "a new kind of dating site," with the slogan "Tune in, Hook up." However, YouTube-as-a-dating-site attracts few users, and the cofounders are forced to take out ads to offer women $20 to upload "dating videos" onto YouTube. "Our users were one step ahead of us," Jawed Karim later says. "They began using YouTube to share videos of all kinds."

Source: Vice



April 2005: While the dating service doesn't pan out, the three cofounders transform their idea into a free video-sharing platform, thanks to inspiration from two significant events in 2004: Janet Jackson's wardrobe malfunction at the Super Bowl, and the devastating tsunami in the Indian Ocean.

Source: USA Today



April 2005: The first video posted to the site, called "Me at the Zoo," is only 19 seconds long. The video is exactly how it sounds, with YouTube cofounder Jawed Karim standing in front of elephants at the San Diego zoo and talking about their trunks.



May 2005: YouTube launches its first public beta site. As you can see, the design has changed quite a bit since then, and YouTube's homepage got its latest redesign in November 2019.



September 2005: YouTube sees a video hit 1 million views for the first time. The video is a viral Nike ad showing Brazilian soccer player Ronaldinho receiving his pair of "Golden Boots," and it demonstrates the power of YouTube's promotional potential.

You can watch the full Nike ad here.



December 2005: YouTube officially launches out of beta and is made available to the public thanks a timely $3.5 million initial investment from Sequoia Capital. At this point, YouTube is getting 8 million views a day.

Source: New York Times, Telegraph



February 2006: After the Saturday Night Live sketch "Lazy Sunday" goes viral and clips of it posted on YouTube attract millions of views, NBC demands that a particularly popular clip is pulled from the site. NBC's complaint paves the way for YouTube's "Content Verification Program," which launches in October 2007 to help content creators easily identify videos that infringe on their copyrights and get them removed.

Source: New York Times



April 2006: A video is uploaded to YouTube showing two boys in China lip-synching to the Backstreet Boys. Susan Wojcicki — YouTube's current CEO who was in charge of Google's acquisitions at the time — credits this video with convincing her that it would be worth it for Google to invest in user-generated content by purchasing YouTube.

Source: Business Insider



April 2006: Venture capital firms Sequoia Capital and Artis Capital Management bring their total investment in YouTube to $11.5 million. When YouTube is acquired months later, these firms' investments pay out massively.

Source: New York Times



June 2006: After the initial spat over the SNL sketch just a few months before, YouTube and NBC strike a deal to help promote the network's upcoming fall TV line up. The move helps the traditional media company enter the new digital age, and marks the beginning of YouTube's several key partnerships with content providers later down the road.



October 2006: Wojcicki convinces Google's cofounders in the potential of YouTube, and the company acquires the video-sharing site for $1.65 billion. Google calls YouTube, a company with around 65 employees, "the next step in the evolution of the Internet." YouTube's cofounders saw nearly $400 million in profits, each, thanks to the purchase.

Source: ReadWrite, "The YouTube: A Full History"



May 2007: A baby named Charlie takes the world by storm. The 56-second video of a toddler biting his brother's finger — and then smiling — is one of the earliest YouTube videos to go viral, and has now has nearly 900 million views. The family said in 2017 — on the video's 10 anniversary — that the clip has raked in more than £1 million in royalties.

Source: The Sun



June 2007: The same month Apple launches its first iPhone model, YouTube launches its mobile site. YouTube cofounder Chad Hurley predicts that mobile is "going to be a huge market," making YouTube's mobile site a "natural transition."

Source: Mashable



July 2007: YouTube teams up with CNN to host the presidential debate for the 2008 election cycle, which features video questions submitted by the public. Seven out of the 16 presidential candidates for 2008 announced their campaigns via YouTube.

Source: New York Times



August 2007: Google rolls out its first ads on YouTube videos. Instead of an option for traditional pre-video ads, the company chooses a new in-video format featuring semi-transparent banners that pop up on the lower portion of videos, and can be clicked away after several seconds.



December 2007: YouTube rolls out its "Partner Program" to allow everyday people to get paid for their viral content, and turn their hobbies into money-making businesses. Not even a year later, the most successful users were earning six-figure incomes from YouTube.

Source: New York Times



September 2008: The viral hit, "Evolution of Dance," becomes the first YouTube video to hit 100 million views. The video features Ohio resident Judson Laipply, who later became a motivational speaker thanks to his newfound fame.

Source: Think With Google



November 2008: YouTube expands its ad offerings to include sponsored videos and pre-roll ads, a format YouTube long said it wouldn't resort to because those ads were too intrusive to the audience. However, the benefits paid to brands and advertisers beat out customer experience in the end.

Source: Gigaom, Wall Street Journal



April 2009: Usher introduces 15-year-old Justin Bieber to the world via a video on YouTube. Bieber would release his music video for "Baby" the following year, and it remains one of the most-disliked videos on all of YouTube.

Source: Business Insider



April 2009: YouTube teams up with media company Vivendi to launch a new music video service called Vevo, in response to music companies' complaints about piracy and unfair licensing terms. As part of the deal, Vevo can distribute its music videos on YouTube, setting the groundwork for Vevo's massive YouTube presence today.

Source: All Things D



October 2009: YouTube reveals that it has surpassed the milestone of 1 billion views a day. By this point, more than 20 hours of video are being uploaded to YouTube every minute.

Source: Telegraph



April 2010: Felix Kjellberg joins YouTube to create content under the channel name "PewDiePie," where he first provides video-game commentary before expanding into vlogging and reacting to internet memes. The YouTuber has since surpassed 100 million subscribers, and is the most-subscribed-to solo creator on the platform today.

Source: Business Insider



October 2010: Columnist and activist Dan Savage uses YouTube to launch the "It Gets Better" campaign on YouTube to send messages of hope to LGBTQ teenagers who feel bullied or ostracized because of their sexuality. The campaign ends up going viral, and even President Barack Obama participates

Source: New York Times



October 2010: Hurley, a YouTube cofounder, steps down as CEO. In his place Google appoints Salar Kamangar, who the company says was already leading YouTube's daily operations for the last two years.

Source: BBC



December 2010: YouTube introduces skippable ads with a format called "TrueView," allowing consumers to skip over ads after five seconds and launch straight into the videos they want to watch.

Source: TechCrunch



April 2011: YouTube officially enters the broadcast business with the launch of YouTube Live. YouTube Live has allowed the site to stream everything from concerts to news coverage to the royal wedding to the Olympics.

Source: Financial Times



October 2011: YouTube launches its first original channels in a push to create original content on the platform. Google purchases Next New Networks, an original web video programming company, and reportedly pays more than $100 million to content creators to make videos exclusively for YouTube.

Source: All Things D

 



May 2011: After a soft launch with indie movies a year earlier, YouTube offers a rental service where consumers can choose from thousands of movies and shows to rent and stream directly on the platform. The move is a bid to compete with media-streaming companies like Netflix.

Source: Digital Commerce 360



Spring 2011: YouTube plays an instrumental role in Arab Spring by helping disseminate messages of freedom and democracy. With YouTube, protesters are able to upload and share videos featuring protest and political commentary. Many of those videos end up going viral, with the top ones receiving millions of views.

Source: University of Washington



August 2012: YouTube becomes the go-to place for presidential elections by launching "YouTube Elections Hub." In addition to streaming the live speeches from the Republican National Convention and Democratic National Convention, it features content from eight news outlets, including YouTube-bred commentator Philip DeFranco.



December 2012: The viral video "Gangnam Style" becomes the first YouTube video ever to reach 1 billion views, just five months after it's posted. The PSY music video currently has nearly 3.5 billion views, and is still the seventh most-viewed video on all of YouTube.

Source: Billboard



January 2013: YouTube opens "YouTube Spaces" in Los Angeles, Tokyo, London, New York, and Sao Paulo. These spaces function as studios for YouTube content creators.



March 2013: YouTube reaches 1 billion monthly users.

Source: Think With Google



February 2014: Susan Wojcicki, Google's 16th employee, is named the new CEO of YouTube, taking over the role from Salar Kamangar.

Source: Business Insider



February 2015: Google launches YouTube Kids, a new "family-friendly" version of the video platform that filters content to ensure it's safe for minors. The Kids platform also offers parental controls, like limiting screen time and disabling search.

Source: Wired



August 2015: Google launches "YouTube Gaming," a way for gamers to livestream their play sessions to a live audience, which also lets them interact and chat in real-time. The service is meant to counter Amazon-owned Twitch, the dominant force in the live-streaming market, which Google tried (and failed) to buy a year earlier.

Source: The Guardian



October 2015: YouTube unveils YouTube Red, its subscription service that lets customers watch videos and stream music without ads. The service includes access to exclusive content featuring stars like PewDiePie and Lilly Singh. Three years later, YouTube Red is renamed YouTube Premium, and spins off its music-streaming to a separate service, called YouTube Music.

Source: Variety, The Verge



January 2016: The music video for Adele's "Hello" sets a record as the fastest video on YouTube to hit 1 billion views. It takes the British singer just 88 days after the video is uploaded to beat out the record previously held by "Gangnam Style."

Source: Guinness World Records



August 2016: YouTube starts notifying creators when their videos are demonetized — meaning that the platform's algorithm has decided that some aspect of the clip doesn't adhere to "advertiser-friendly content guidelines," so it's ineligible to make money. Although these guidelines have been around since 2012, popular creators whose main income is YouTube, like Philip DeFranco, criticized it demonetization as "a form on censorship."

Source: Recode, Business Insider



February 2017: YouTube's biggest star, PewDiePie, is the subject of a bombshell Wall Street Journal investigation that finds nine of his past videos contain "anti-Semitic jokes or Nazi imagery." One of those videos showed two men, paid by PewDiePie, holding up a sign reading "Death to All Jews." Both YouTube and Disney quickly cut ties with him, and he was kicked out of YouTube's preferred advertising program.

Source: Wall Street Journal, Business Insider



March 2017: Major companies across the US and in international markets — like AT&T, Johnson & Johnson, and the British government — pull their ads from YouTube en masse after the Times of London reports that ads are appearing alongside extremist and offensive content. YouTube's ability to police content is put into question, and analysts estimate the boycott cost the company $750 million.

Source: The Verge, Business Insider



April 2017: YouTube tries to save face by altering its ad policies and also revamps its Partner Program, raising the minimum requirements for money-generating channels. The two algorithm changes, and major advertisers' YouTube boycott, help kick off YouTube's first "Adpocalypse," a term for the massive slowdown in revenue for creators.

Source: AdAge, New York Times



April 2017: YouTube TV, its on-demand streaming service, officially launches in select markets. It'll be another two years before the service goes nationwide, and the price jacks up to $50 a month.

Source: The Verge, Business Insider



November 2017: Multiple reports find disturbing and abusive videos across YouTube that use family-friendly characters to aim their content toward kids. Similar inappropriate content is found in the YouTube Kids app. Even more advertisers pull their ads, and YouTube responds by updating its policies around age-restricted content.

Source: The Verge, New York Times



December 2017: YouTube Logan Paul posts a video of him and friends discovering and filming a dead body in Japan's so-called "suicide forest." Outrage over the video is harsh and swift, and nearly 200,000 people sign a petition to have Paul kicked off YouTube. He apologizes, and remains one of YouTube's most controversial stars.

Source: Business Insider



April 2018: A woman opens fire at YouTube's San Bruno headquarters, wounding three people and killing herself. Police later say she planned her attack because she was upset about YouTube for censoring and demonetizing her videos.

Source: NPR



February 2019: YouTuber Matt Watson exposes a "soft-core pedophilia ring" living in the comments on YouTube videos featuring children, where pedophiles trade remarks and links. Another exodus of advertisers occurs, and YouTube responds by disabling comments on videos featuring children.

Source: Variety, YouTube Blog



May 2019: T-Series, a Bollywood music label, becomes the first YouTube channel to hit 100 million subscribers. It beats out PewDiePie, the 2nd most popular channel, for the achievement.

Source: Business Insider



June 2019: Vox reporter Carlos Maza speaks out about YouTube's failure to take action against right-wing YouTuber Steven Crowder, who was harassing Maza with homophobic and racist remarks in YouTube videos. YouTube rules Crowder's videos don't violate harassment policies and keeps his video online, a decision that prompts backlash from both the public and employees inside YouTube.

Source: Business Insider



September 2019: The Federal Trade Commission fines YouTube $170 million following an investigation into whether the platform violates children's privacy laws by collecting the data of children under the age of 13 without their parents' consent. The FTC settlement also requires YouTube to create a system where creators flag their content as family-friendly.

Source: Business Insider



December 2019: Six months after the Maza-Crowder controversy, YouTube updates its harassment policy to ban content that "maliciously insults" others — from creators to public figures — on the basis of race, gender, and sexual orientation. The policy also targets sustained harassment campaigns. However, the revamped policy has led creators to worry about a crackdown on popular types of videos (like commentary and drama) and another Adpocalypse.

Source: The Verge


Nathan McAlone contributed to an earlier version of this report.



Viewing all 115236 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images