Which vitamin B supplement is best?

If you’re wondering how your body cells are able to function properly, think about B vitamins. There are eight B-group vitamins, and they help the body create new cells and maintain healthy cells and tissues.

If you’re looking for the vitamin B supplement that is right for you, MegaFood Balanced B-Complex Multivitamin is the top choice.

What to know before you buy a vitamin B supplement

Quality

When looking for the right vitamin B supplement, it isn’t enough for manufacturers to say their products are of high quality. Manufacturers must also conduct third-party testing by independent organizations to validate their claims.

Some certification programs are focused on specific areas. For instance, a Gluten-Free stamp on a dietary product indicates that the product doesn’t contain any ingredients that can trigger gluten allergies. On the other hand, there are programs that are broadly focused, like the GMP seal, which organizations like NSF and BSCG offer to indicate that the manufacturing facility complies with standard manufacturing practices.

Bioavailability

It is important to know if your body can efficiently absorb the nutrients in the vitamin B supplement you are taking. One indicator of this function is bioavailability.

One way to better understand the bioavailability of your vitamin B supplement is to check if it has been formulated in its most absorbable form. For instance, folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 but is formulated as folic acid in supplements. Folic acid is usually better absorbed than the natural form. If you want to pump up your vitamin B9 levels, taking a supplement containing folic acid may get it done faster.

Condition

While B vitamins are found in many foods, and you can often get most of what you need from healthy eating, some conditions require you to take extra B vitamins. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, B vitamins like B12 and folate are important for your baby’s growth, so it is important to take supplements containing these vitamins. Due to poor absorption issues, older adults may also find it difficult to get enough vitamin B12 from their diet alone. Other conditions that may require B vitamin supplementation include cancer, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and anorexia.

What to look for in a quality vitamin B supplement

Dosage

Each B vitamin has a recommended daily value, which often depends on factors like age, pregnancy, diet, medical condition and genetics. Taking a high dose of certain B vitamins can negatively affect your health. For instance, a high dose of vitamin B12 can affect your sleep cycle by causing insomnia, while taking high doses of a combination of vitamin B6 and B12 can increase levels of energizing neurotransmitters, leading to restlessness and irritability. Discuss the best dosage levels for you with your health care professional.

Plant-based diet

Plant-based foods don’t usually contain vitamin B12, which is a serious concern for people on a vegetarian or vegan diet. One of the effects of vitamin B12 deficiency is heart disease because low levels of this vitamin can increase homocysteine levels in your blood. If you follow a plant-based diet, choose a vitamin B supplement that contains adequate amounts of vitamin B12 to meet your dietary needs.

Allergies

Though not always common, some people can react to vitamin B supplements. For instance, if you are allergic to cobalt, your body may react if you take supplements that contain vitamin B12. In some rare cases, folic acid can cause an allergic reaction that can cause side effects, such as a skin rash, itching and feeling generally unwell.

How much you can expect to spend on vitamin B supplement

You can expect to pay between $5 and $30 per bottle of a quality vitamin B supplement. As with most supplements, you should check the recommended serving size to determine whether the cost is a value.

Vitamin B supplement FAQ

Why do vitamin B supplements smell funny?

A. It is actually normal for your vitamin B supplement to have an unpleasant odor. This smell typically comes from thiamine. However, if you can’t tolerate the scent, you can choose a vitamin B supplement that comes as a pleasant-tasting gummy.

Can anyone take a vitamin B supplement every day?

A. Some people can get the B vitamins they need from their diet, but people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, older adults and people with conditions such as cancer, Crohn’s disease or anorexia may require vitamin B supplementation. If you are also on a diet that increases your risk of vitamin B deficiency, such as a vegan diet, you may also need to take a vitamin B supplement for as long as you’re on the diet.

What’s the best vitamin B supplement to buy?

Top vitamin B supplement

MegaFood Balanced B-Complex Multivitamin

What you need to know: This vegan-friendly B-complex multivitamin provides a balanced ratio of B vitamins to give your body the support and energy you need.

What you’ll love: It is free of gluten, dairy, and soy, so you don’t have to worry if you are allergic to these ingredients. The serving size is 1 tablet daily, which makes it easy to take. The supplement can also be taken anytime during the day, even on an empty stomach.

What you should consider: If you have anxiety issues, it can have a stimulating effect on your nervous system, which can aggravate your condition.

Top vitamin B supplement for the money

Nature’s Bounty Super B-complex with Folic Acid Plus Vitamin C

What you need to know: This B-complex supplement combines vitamin C and folic acid with B vitamins to combat stress while supporting the heart and nervous system.

What you’ll love: In addition to B vitamins that help boost energy levels and combat stress, the folic acid and vitamin C also make it a great option for pregnant women.

What you should consider: Some users complained of this product’s strong vitamin B smell.

Worth checking out

Doctor’s Best Fully Active B Complex

What you need to know: This complete vitamin B supplement contains all eight B vitamins to support energy production and cell metabolism.

What you’ll love: It contains only the best-utilized forms of the B vitamins, like quatrefolic — a highly bioavailable form of folate due to its stability and water solubility.

What you should consider: It contains a high dose of vitamin B3, also called niacin, which may cause a niacin flush. This is marked by burning, itching and a flush of red on the skin.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Which tarp is best?

A tarp is an easy-to-use cover for everything from the winter log pile to a fully loaded big rig. It’s no surprise you’ll find them everywhere.

So all you need to do is check the size you want and go buy one, right? Well, maybe. There is actually considerable variety. Materials and construction can have a big impact on their cost and longevity.

Our favorite, the Xpose Safety’s Super Heavy-Duty Tarp, provides a durable, all-weather solution for all kinds of tasks.

What to know before you buy a tarp

Materials

Although polyethylene (often just called poly) and canvas are the most common materials, tarps made from vinyl and PVC are also common.

Polyethylene is cheap and almost 100% waterproof and thus has become the most popular choice. However, the sun’s UV rays will rapidly destroy cheap poly tarps. They can disintegrate — quite literally fall to pieces — in just weeks. For this reason, any good poly tarp will have an anti-UV coating (make sure it’s on both sides).

Canvas (woven from natural hemp or cotton) is much tougher than polyethylene, so it’s a better choice where abrasion resistance is required. It’s also flame-retardant (though not fireproof). However, it’s seldom fully waterproof and can be prone to rot in damp environments. The flip side is that because it will absorb liquids to some degree, it doesn’t become slippery like plastics, so in some situations, it’s safer.

Vinyl is somewhat more specialized, being tougher than polyethylene but more expensive. It’s popular for hauling. PVC combines flexibility with durability and is often found in factory curtaining or construction for temporary floor coverings.

What to look for in a quality tarp

Aside from material, thickness is going to have an impact on how hard-wearing and flexible the tarp is. There are two measurement systems in general use: milliliters and ounces per square yard. Manufacturers may give either or both. Six milliliters/3 ounces would be considered light duty, while up to 24 milliliters/12 ounces would be the most heavy duty. If the tarp is woven (many poly tarps are woven, as well as canvas), then you’ll also get a weave count. Higher numbers mean greater strength, with 8 by 8 being a lightweight tarp, up to 24 by 24 on heavy-duty models.

Grommets can be plastic, aluminum or brass. All are resistant to rust, but metal ones will last longer. Spacing can be anywhere from 36 to 18 inches apart. Typically, they’ll be closer on heavy-duty tarps because you usually want more tie-down points.

Double or triple rows of stitching reinforce the edges of the tarp. Nylon rope is sewn into the edge on the highest-quality versions to add additional strength.

Regarding sizing, some manufacturers give the size as that of the cut material before the edge is folded over and stitched. This generally results in the actual tarp dimensions being a half inch or more smaller than stated in the description. If you need precise sizing, it’s something to look out for.

How much you can expect to spend on a tarp

You can probably find cheap tarps for just a few bucks, but they tear easily and have no UV protection. A good-quality 8-by-10-foot tarp will cost around $15; at the other end of the scale, a tough, heavy-duty 30-by-40-foot tarp will cost you several hundred. That’s still very reasonable, considering the size and level of protection provided.

Tarps FAQ

Are milliliters for tarp thickness the same as millimeters?

A. Sound similar, don’t they? But no, they’re not the same. A mil is 1/1000th of an inch, and a millimeter is 1/100th of a meter. If you want a conversion, a millimeter is 0.039 inch — or 39 milliliters.

How do you know if a tarp is properly waterproof?

A. It’s not easy. There’s no common standard, so you have to take the maker’s word for it. It’s difficult to make canvas completely waterproof, so poly is better. Be careful with “water-resistant,” which probably just means showerproof.

What’s the best tarp to buy?

Top tarp

Xpose Safety’s Super Heavy-Duty Tarp

What you need to know: This hard-wearing tarp is available in a wide range of sizes, providing something for every task.

What you’ll love: It’s 16 milliliters thick and has a 16 by 16 weave count. It’s strong, waterproof and UV-resistant. Grommets are 18 inches apart, and seams are reinforced for greater security.

What you should consider: Seams have been known to fray occasionally.

Top tarp for the money

Harpster Tarps’ High-Visibility Tarp

What you need to know: This light-duty tarp is bright red if you need what you’re covering to stand out.

What you’ll love: This cheap and cheerful cover is suitable for indoors and outdoors. The material is 3.3 ounces (approximately 7 milliliters thick). It is waterproof, rot-resistant and has an anti-UV coating on both sides.

What you should consider: It’s just a thin, lightweight cover.

Worth checking out

F & J Outdoors’ Canvas Truck Tarp

What you need to know: This well-made, traditional, heavy-duty canvas is for vehicle, boat and yard use.

What you’ll love: The thick, 10-ounce fabric equivalent to 23 milliliters has triple-stitched hems. Grommet spacing allows for frequent tie-down points. Accurately sized, it is UV- and water-resistant.

What you should consider: It isn’t fully waterproof, and the color can fade quickly.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Text easily while still keeping your hands warm using these gloves

Before smartphones, it didn’t matter what type of gloves you wore, but thanks to touch screens, a good pair of texting gloves has become indispensable during the fall and winter months. What are texting gloves exactly? They’re exactly like any other pair of gloves except for one key difference: They have added pieces on the fingertips that will register the touch of a finger without requiring the removal of the glove. Provided you find the right pair, they are easy to use and convenient as temperatures drop.

How do texting gloves work?

The fingertips found on texting gloves feature conductive yarn or threads with materials like copper so that smartphone and tablet screens will respond to the electrical current of that touch the same as it would to the touch of your actual finger. Some smartphone gloves have these conductors on just the pointer finger, while others have them on the pointer and thumb. What you’ll want depends on how you normally use your phone.

Can you wash texting gloves?

It is not recommended that you put texting gloves in the washing machine, but they can be washed by hand in cool water. You can then lay them out flat to dry.

Are there texting gloves for left-handed users?

One thing to bear in mind is that a lot of texting gloves only have conductive tips on the right-hand glove, presumably so people can text with their “dominant” hand. Fortunately, more and more companies are making ambidextrous texting gloves so that both gloves in the pair feature conductors and are, therefore, compatible with a wider array of users.

Best unisex texting gloves you can buy online now

Achiou Winter Knit Touchscreen Gloves

These knit acrylic gloves have silicone nonslip palms and three-finger touchscreen capabilities through the conductive yarn on the right hand. They’re very warm, come in three sizes and are available in 13 cozy colors.

Trendoux Touchscreen Winter Gloves for Men and Women

These acrylic knit gloves have three conductive fingertips on both the left and right hand, plus silicone antislip palms to prevent fumbling. They are available in three sizes and nine colors.

Koxly Winter Touchscreen Gloves

Available in five sizes and three colors, these cozy gloves are made from compression fabrics and have dual-layer, three-finger touchscreen capabilities. They’re not waterproof, but they’re very warm and have silicone antislip palms.

Best women’s texting gloves you can buy online now

Achiou Women’s Winter Elastic Stretch Touchscreen Gloves

These polyester/cotton/spandex gloves have forefinger and thumb touchscreen capabilities, incorporating great elasticity for a comfortable fit. They come in two sizes and 10 color schemes.

Elma Women’s Classic Touchscreen Texting Winter Gloves

These stylish touchscreen gloves are made from soft hair sheep leather with a cashmere lining and a fashion button on each wrist. They come in five numbered sizes (including half sizes) and nine colors.

TrailHeads Women’s Touchscreen Running Gloves

These smooth, stretchy polyester gloves feature touchscreen-capable tips on both the left and right hand and nonslip palms. They are designed for use during aerobic activities and come in three sizes and colors/patterns.

Best men’s texting gloves you can buy online now

Eonpow Men’s Touchscreen Texting Leather Gloves

These black faux leather gloves have a buckle closure at the wrist and a soft cashmere-like lining on the inside. They are warm, comfortable and compatible with touchscreens.

SCENTBLOCKER Shield Series S3 Touch Text Gloves

These lightweight wool gloves have an earthy tree edge pattern on the exterior and touchscreen forefinger and thumb tips, as well as a silicone antislip palm grip. They prevent odor, minimize moisture and come in two colors.

Adidas Men’s Shield 3.0 Running Gloves

Available in two sizes, these texting gloves are made from polyester, spandex, and faux leather for a comfortable fit. The forefinger and thumb tips are touchscreen-compatible with both the left and right hands. The gloves are warm and feature a flood print palm grip on both hands for a firm, reliable grip.

Foco Men’s NFL Palm Logo Texting Touch Gloves

These polyester gloves, which have touchscreen-compatible forefinger and thumb tips, come in over a dozen NFL team colors. Each glove features the team’s logo on the back of the palm and the team’s name on the other side.

Carhartt Men’s C-Touch Work Glove

These durable cotton/polyester work gloves are wind-resistant, have a comfortable microfiber lining, and are touchscreen-compatible. They are available in black or gray and in five sizes.

Best kid’s texting gloves you can buy online now

Pulais Kids Touchscreen Gloves

This set comes with two pairs of acrylic knit gloves — one in gray and one in blue. Both have three-finger touchscreen capabilities on the left and right hand. Gloves come in small or medium.

Yukini Ya Kid’s Touchscreen Winter Gloves

Available in five sizes, these black and gray gloves have a plush lining, reflective accents, and antislip palms with three-finger touchscreen conductive fabric on the right-hand tips. Though sold as water-resistant, users do not recommend them for wet environments.

Head Kids’ Touchscreen Gloves

Available in black or violet, these touchscreen gloves are great for chilly days. They have a comfortable fit and good-quality materials. The gloves come in two sizes.

The North Face Youth Denali ETIP Gloves

These fleece gloves have five finger-touchscreen capabilities as well as a silicone antislip print on the palms.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Which LEGO Technic sets are best?

LEGO Technic sets are geared more for adolescents and adults than kids. Although some bricks may be involved, LEGO Technic sets are made from gears, wheels, axles and mechanical systems. Technic sets provide stiff challenges for experienced LEGO builders with advanced real-life functions like engines, gearboxes and steering systems.

LEGO Technic sets have lots of parts with detail and complexity for those who crave a technical challenge. If you want to hone your mechanical engineering skills as you build a 1,500 piece model of an iconic endurance racer, try the LEGO Technic Porsche 911 RSR Race Car Building Set 42096.

What to know before you buy a LEGO Technic set

Degree of difficulty

All LEGO Technic sets are designed to be more challenging than the rest of the LEGO lines. Because few of the familiar, knobbed LEGO bricks are involved, LEGO Technic sets are essentially built from the inside out and not from the ground up like more traditional sets. The meat of the challenge is that LEGO Technic sets require lots of planning, visualization and spatial thinking.

Category

All LEGO Technic sets involve some sort of mechanical vehicle. Exotic cars, like Porsches, Bugattis, Corvettes and Lamborghinis, are a favorite category. Many of the Technics sets are pieces of heavy equipment, like cranes, excavators, bulldozers and crawlers. There are also hovercrafts, catamarans, airplanes, helicopters, motorcycles, dragsters, monster trucks, tow trucks, four-wheel drive off-roaders, stunt racers and more.

The LEGO Guide

Every LEGO Technic set comes with web access to LEGO’s complete set of downloadable and printable building instructions. Instructions are searchable by LEGO name, theme, set number and year.

What to look for in a quality LEGO Technic set

Motors

Some LEGO Technic sets are powered by motors that come with the kit, while others require the motors to be purchased separately. Look carefully before you choose your new LEGO Technic set because not all models are upgradeable.

Gears

Motors provide the power to LEGO Technic vehicles, but gears deliver the power to the wheels or treads. Intricate sets use chain links to connect the gears, which the modeler then needs to adjust for proper tension and mesh. Getting the right-sized gears in the right places is part of the challenge and calls for planning and experimentation.

Technic hubs

These advanced control units have input and output ports used to program and control LEGO Powered Up smart motors, power hubs, lights and sensors. They easily add movement, light and sound to your LEGO Technic set. Technic Hubs connect via Bluetooth to the LEGO Technic CONTROL+ app and are a great addition to Technic sets, STEM learning and robotics projects.

How much you can expect to spend on a LEGO Technic set

The majority of LEGO Technic sets cost $100-$400. The smallest and simplest Technic sets start at $10, and complicated sets with a lot of pieces cost $800-$1,000. Add-ons start at around $20 and run as high as $500.

LEGO Technic set FAQ

What are some common mistakes people make with LEGO Technic sets?

A. Impatience can be your downfall. Follow instructions carefully and test as you go. Don’t try to make pieces fit together that aren’t meant to attach, even if they look as if they should snap in place. Make sure not to overtighten, as many people try to tighten connections too much when they should only be snug and secure.

Are LEGO Technic sets compatible with standard LEGOs?

A. The pieces in Technic sets are compatible with basic LEGOs, but you won’t see many bricks in a Technic set. Instead, you will see the gears, axles, beams and pins necessary to create advanced moving parts and systems.

Are LEGO Technics and Mindstorms the same thing?

A. Many of the Technics and Mindstorm kits use the same elements and some parts are interchangeable, so they are closely related. The big difference is that Mindstorm sets are mostly robots and sensors that involve lots of computing and coding.

What’s the best LEGO Technic set to buy?

Top LEGO Technic set

LEGO Technic Porsche 911 RSR Race Car Building Set 42096

What you need to know: This 1,580-piece set packs an amazing amount of detail into a 19-inch-long replica of Porsche’s iconic 911 RSR endurance racer.

What you’ll love: The sharp contours and aerodynamic details include a rear wing, extended diffuser and specially designed side mirrors. The accessible cockpit features working steering, a fire extinguisher system and a track map of the Laguna Seca racecourse. The moving pistons show the finely detailed six-cylinder competition engine at work.

What you should consider: The set says it is for kids 10 and older, but it will be a real challenge for preteens.

Top LEGO Technic set for the money

LEGO Technic Cherry Picker Building Kit 42088

What you need to know: This highly detailed but affordable 155-piece set has a working boom and basket with a flexible arm and lifting mechanism.

What you’ll love: This real-life mechanical machine has realistic LEGO Technic gears and mechanisms. This 2-in-1 set can be built as a cherry picker and a tow truck and is suitable for kids 7 and older.

What you should consider: This 4-by-2-by-1-inch toy is one of the easiest LEGO Technic sets to build.

Worth checking out

LEGO Star Wars Ultimate Millennium Falcon Expert Building Kit

What you need to know: This 7,541-piece LEGO Technic set is perfect for Star Wars fans.

What you’ll love: This set comes with two crews of mini-figures, including the classic Han Solo, Princess Leia, Chewbacca and C-3PO. The exterior features detailed removable hull panels, a lowering boarding ramp and a concealed blaster cannon. The main hold features a seating area, engineering station and holographic game. The rear compartment includes the hyperdrive engine room and two escape pod hatches.

What you should consider: This is a very pricey kit.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Which green tea is best?

Green tea is the fresh, nonoxidized leaves of the tea plant, picked at the height of their verdant glory. Picking tea before it has oxidized imparts it with a lighter more vegetal taste that is herbal in flavor and feel. Although it can contain as much, if not more, caffeine than black tea, the best green teas provide a mellow, energetic boost that provides a counterpart to black tea’s frenetic rush.

If you’ve never tried green tea before, Harney & Sons Japanese Sencha Green Tea is a good place to start.

What to know before you buy green tea

Tea bags vs. loose vs. powdered

Green tea is available in many forms, and which you choose depends on when and how you are most likely to prepare it.

• Tea bags: These are the most convenient option and produce the most consistent results, but they can also be stale.
• Loose tea: Loose tea requires strainers or reusable bags, but it allows you to customize the intensity of your tea and may work better for cold brewing.
• Powdered tea: Powdered tea, also called matcha, is strong and bitter. It requires a special whisk (and some matcha know-how) to create the perfect cup.

Type of green tea

There are many varieties of green tea, each with its distinct flavors and characteristics.

• Sencha: This Japanese variety is the most common type of green tea and is available in two styles (the lightly-steamed asamushi and its heavier counterpart fukamushi). The flavor of sencha is savory and light, with grassy notes of pine and salt.
• Longjing: Originating in China, longjing tea is roasted by hand to create a sweet flavor that tastes mildly of chestnuts. It’s expensive, so seek out spring-harvested tea that has short, fat leaves that are pale green or yellow.
• Bilochun: Bilochun is another green tea from China. It’s more affordable and tastes slightly nutty. Taiwanese biluochun has hints of sweet pineapple coming from fat leaves.
• Gyokuro: The secret to this Japanese green tea’s flavors of seaweed and dashi lies in its cultivation. The tea is grown in shade for the last six weeks, forcing the plant to produce extra nutrients to stay alive. It’s an expensive tea that is best served in small quantities.
• Laoshan: Laoshan is a smooth, affordable Chinese green tea with a silky texture and a mild flavor of spring peas.
• Genmaicha: Rounding out the list, genmaicha is the working class’s daily drink. It’s sencha tea with added sorghum or puffed rice to bulk it up. The flavor is not complex, but it’s great as a digestive, refreshing tea.

What to look for in a quality green tea

Organic

Organic green teas are produced without chemicals or fertilizers. This results in a clean tea with a pure flavor.

Clear region of origin

Because green teas can differ so much in flavor (and price), look for a clear region of origin indicated on the package. This provides information on what to expect in terms of taste and texture.

Chemical-free tea bags

If you choose tea bags, look for companies that use chemical-free tea bags. Chemical-free bags are good for the planet and do not impart an off-taste when dipped into hot water.

Sustainable packaging

The best green teas use sustainable packaging (e.g., recycled cardboard and paper and no plastic). Look for companies that have taken the climate pledge to reduce carbon emissions in their deliveries, too.

How to brew green tea

Follow these steps to brew the perfect cup of green tea.

• Heat water to no more than 185 degrees (boiling water extracts bitter flavors from green tea).
• Heat your mug by rinsing it with hot water.
• Add tea leaves or a tea bag.
• Steep the tea for three full minutes.
• Strain the tea leaves if using, then sweeten if desired and enjoy.

How much you can expect to spend on green tea

Across varieties, tea format and quantity, expect to spend $5-$14.

Green tea FAQ

Does green tea have health benefits?

A. A review of studies in 2010 found that green tea had potential benefits to lower blood pressure, reduce the chances of stroke, manage weight and reduce cardiovascular disease. Since then, green tea has also been shown to reduce blood sugar levels, lower the risk of Parkinson’s disease and decrease the chance of colorectal cancer.

How much green tea can you drink per day?

A. To get the potential health benefits of green tea, and based on the results of research, the optimal amount of green tea to consume is three to five cups a day. Green tea is caffeinated, so if you have concerns about adding caffeine to your diet, talk to your doctor.

What’s the best green tea to buy?

Top green tea

Harney & Sons Japanese Sencha Green Tea

What you need to know: This is one of Japan’s traditional teas and a good example of complex flavor.

What you’ll love: This pack of 50 tea bags contains high-quality sencha from the Shizuoka prefecture of Japan. It’s hand-picked in the spring for a light, floral taste with notes of spinach and toasted bread.

What you should consider: Some green tea purists found it weak, while those new to green tea did not like the grassy, vegetal taste.

Top green tea for the money

Chaganju Green Tea Leaves

What you need to know: This is loose tea that is more subtle and milder than some other options.

What you’ll love: Loose tea allows you to tailor the strength of the tea to your taste. This tea is grown without chemicals or fertilizers and meets strict international organic standards. This is also delicious when brewed with cold water.

What you should consider: Some tea drinkers found this relatively flat and flavorless.

Worth checking out

FGO Organic Gunpowder Green Loose Leaf Tea

What you need to know: This highly caffeinated, loose-leaf Chinese tea is certified organic by the Department of Agriculture and is non-GMO.

What you’ll love: This loose-leaf tea is in the “gunpowder” style, with the leaves rolled into little pellets. It’s grown to USDA organic standards and has no additives. It has a light, smoky flavor. It’s imported from China and packed in the U.S.

What you should consider: It’s not exactly like the traditional gunpowder tea found in China.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Which cast-iron skillet is best?

Many cooks like to have a cast-iron skillet as part of their kitchen arsenal, but how do you choose which one will cook food the best and last for years to come? It’s important to pick a quality cast-iron skillet you’ll enjoy cooking on.

If you’re looking to kit your kitchen out from scratch with new cookware, this Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle is an excellent choice, containing three skillets of different sizes.

What to know before you buy a cast-iron skillet

Diameter

The diameter of your skillet is important because it should be large enough to fit what you want to cook in it, but not unnecessarily huge. Although cast iron retains heat well, it doesn’t transfer heat as effectively as more lightweight metals, so a skillet that’s too large for the burner can end up with cool spots near the edges, not to mention that bigger cast-iron skillets weigh more and cost more. When checking out the diameter of any skillets you’re considering, bear in mind that the listed diameter is often the diameter of the rim, not the cooking area. Since most skillets taper out from the base to the rim, the cooking area usually is slightly smaller.

Depth

Most cast-iron skillets have a standard depth of approximately 2 to 2.5 inches. This is deep enough for average cooking methods such as searing and sauteing. There are some extra-deep skillets with a depth of roughly 3 to 4 inches. These are better suited for simmering larger volumes of food that wouldn’t fit in a shallower skillet, deep frying in a couple of inches of oil or baking deep-dish pies.

Seasoning

Seasoning on a cast-iron skillet is an accumulation of layers of oils on the inside of the pan that makes up a nonstick coating. The majority of cast-iron skillets sold today come pre-seasoned and ready to cook with, but if you want to do the seasoning process yourself, you can find a handful of unseasoned cast iron pans.

What to look for in a quality cast-iron skillet

Pouring spouts

The pouring spouts in the side of a cast iron pan help you more easily pour out liquid food or used cooking oil without making a mess. You also can use them as spoon rests.

Removable silicone grips

Cast-iron skillets’ handles can get hot, so those with silicone grips are easier to handle. Ideally, these grips should be removable so the pans are oven-safe at higher temperatures.

Lid

Most cast-iron skillets don’t come with lids, but there are some that do if having a lid is non-negotiable for you. You should also be able to buy lids separately that will fit your skillet.

How much you can expect to spend on a cast-iron skillet

Depending on factors such as size, seasoning and overall quality, cast-iron skillets can cost between $15-$100 apiece.

Cast-iron skillet FAQ

Is cooking on cast iron bad for you?

A. No, cooking with cast iron isn’t bad for you. When you cook food in a cast iron pan, iron from the pan leaches into your food, increasing your dietary iron intake, which is great for anyone who’s deficient in iron.

What are the benefits of cast-iron skillets?

A. Aside from adding extra iron to your food, cast-iron skillets have a range of benefits. They’re very durable, so a decent cast-iron skillet that’s well cared for could outlive you. Their excellent heat retention properties help them char and brown food. When well-seasoned, cast-iron skillets are nonstick but without any of the controversial chemicals that go into pans with nonstick coatings. Cast-iron pans are oven-safe with no maximum temperature limits, so it’s easy to cook dishes that go from the stove to the oven.

What’s the best cast-iron skillet to buy?

Top cast-iron skillet

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle

What you need to know: This set of three skillets is a great choice for anyone stocking their kitchen from scratch.

What you’ll love: This set contains three skillet sizes: 8, 10 and 12 inches. Each is pre-seasoned, features pouring spouts and has one long handle and one loop handle. Lodge has been making cast-iron skillets since 1896, so you can be sure of the quality.

What you should consider: Not every buyer needs a full set of three skillets.

Top cast-iron skillet for the money

Amazon Basics Preseasoned Cast Iron Skillet

What you need to know: This is a simple, affordable cast-iron skillet available in various sizes.

What you’ll love: Each skillet comes preseasoned, so it should have a reasonably nonstick coating, which will improve with use. The flared edges and pouring spouts make cooking convenient. The largest size measures more than 16 inches across.

What you should consider: The skillet’s cooking surface could have a smoother texture.

Worth checking out

Victoria Cast-iron Paella Frying Pan

What you need to know: Although listed as a paella pan, this loop-handled piece of cookware can also be used as a skillet.

What you’ll love: You can choose between five sizes from 6.5 to 13 inches. It comes seasoned with flaxseed oil, which provides a beautiful, hard finish. The double-loop handles make it easy to pick up and less awkward to put in an oven.

What you should consider: Some buyers report the cooking surface isn’t completely flat, and the oil pools to one side.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Which cordless water flosser is best?

Everyone wants a great set of pearly whites, but some may not know that properly cleaning your teeth is about more than just having a nice smile. There is evidence to suggest that poor oral hygiene can lead to a host of health issues, including heart disease and respiratory infections.

Brushing and string flossing are great, but if you really want to improve your oral hygiene, consider a water flosser like the Waterpik WP-662 Professional Oral Irrigator. These devices can flush out food particles and bacteria that other methods miss.

What to know before you buy a cordless water flosser

Benefits of using a water flosser

There are many benefits of using water flossers, sometimes called oral irrigators. The most notable benefit is getting a more thorough cleaning than traditional flossing alone. Regular flossing, while very effective, can often leave plaque, bacteria and bits of food behind. If you use a water flosser afterward, you flush out any leftover gunk. This helps reduce the chances of gum disease and inflammation.

They are also very helpful for those with braces, as it is tough to get into all of their cracks and crevices when string floss. Additionally, anyone dealing with arthritis or other issues that inhibit hand strength or dexterity may find a water flosser easier to use.

Types of water flossers

• Countertop water flossers have a separate flosser wand and base, the latter of which contains the reservoir and pressure controls. A small water hose connects the two pieces, so you’ll be tethered to the base during use.
• Portable models, sometimes called travel water flossers, are self-contained machines that combine the reservoir, controls and flossing tip into a single unit. These are handheld, generally battery-powered and small enough to pack into luggage for trips. The downside to portable models is the small reservoir, which sometimes needs to be refilled midway through the flossing session.

Water flosser tips

Water flossers may come with a single tip or several tips, each designed for a slightly different purpose. Every model includes the standard tip for standard oral irrigation. Still, you may also receive an orthodontic tip for braces, a dedicated plaque tip, a tip for deep flushing or even a toothbrush tip that allows for brushing and water flossing simultaneously.

What to look for in a quality cordless water flosser

Settings

Nearly all water flossers have more than one setting for stream pressure. Some also feature an adjustable spray pattern or more than one mode, such as massaging and cleaning. The more settings a water flosser has, the more versatile it will be.

Rotating tip

Water flossers have bent tips that make it easier to reach deep into the back of the mouth and other hard-to-reach areas. The tips on many models are rotatable to ensure the bent tip doesn’t require awkward wrist positions or switching hands when moving from one side of the mouth to the other.

Flow control placement

The placement of the flow-control switch on a water flosser may be on the handheld unit or on the base. Wherever it is, it should be easily accessible without taking the tip out of your mouth. Otherwise, you may spray water everywhere before you can turn off the machine.

Timer

Most people don’t brush for the recommended amount of time. Some models feature built-in timers to alert you when it is time to stop or move to a different area in your mouth to reduce the chances of not water-flossing for the recommended amount of time.

Reservoir capacity

The reservoir capacity is important for convenient operation. If it is too small, you’ll need to refill it mid-way through your cleaning session. However, you’ll also need to consider how much bathroom counter space you are willing to give up for your water flosser, as those with large reservoirs tend to have a larger footprint.

Hose length

Unless you use a self-contained, portable water flosser, the wand will be tethered to the base unit the whole time. This means you want to choose a model with a hose long enough that your movement doesn’t feel restricted and you can stand when using it.

How much you can expect to spend on a cordless water flosser

Most water flossers cost $30-$75. You can find some options from lesser-known brands as low as $15, but the quality and durability are questionable.

Cordless water flosser FAQ

If you use a water flosser, do you still need to use dental floss?

A. You should use water flossers in conjunction with brushing and traditional string flossing for a more thorough cleaning. They don’t take the place of either of those other hygiene routines.

How long and how often should you use a water flosser?

A. Most manufacturers of water flossers recommend using them once per day for anywhere from 60 to 90 seconds.

What’s the best cordless water flosser to buy?

Top cordless water flosser

Waterpik WP-662 Professional Oral Irrigator

What you need to know: If you are looking for a water flosser with all the bells and whistles, the WP-662, which has 10 pressure settings and two modes, is the way to go.

What you’ll love: It can produce up to 1,400 pulses per minute for a thorough cleaning, and it features a built-in timer to let you know when it is time to move to a different section in your mouth. Also, it comes with seven tips, one of which is designed specifically for those with braces.

What you should consider: It lacks a dedicated place to store the tips.

Top cordless water flosser for the money

Waterpik Nano Plus WP-320

What you need to know: This space-saving option easily fits onto most bathroom counters yet still offers many of the same features as full-sized models.

What you’ll love: Its reservoir inverts over the top of the machine for a clean and organized look when not in use. Plus, despite its small size, it still has multiple settings and produces almost as much pressure as larger models.

What you should consider: It is advertised as travel-friendly, but it doesn’t come with a travel case.

Worth checking out

Waterpik WP-562 Cordless Water Flosser

What you need to know: This relatively compact water flosser is a top choice for travelers. It is completely handheld and cordless.

What you’ll love: It has a contoured handle that makes it easy to hold despite being somewhat thick, and since it is rechargeable and completely self-contained, you won’t feel tethered to the wall or a separate reservoir unit.

What you should consider: You may need to refill the small reservoir mid-way through your cleaning session.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Which facial tissue is best?

What began as a makeup and cold cream remover has become the faithful companion to cold and allergy sufferers everywhere. Combining strength, absorbency and softness, facial tissue is now a must-have in homes, schools and offices.

Not all brands of facial tissue are created equally, however. Some entry-level brands may not measure up to the performance standards set by recognizable names such as Kleenex or Puffs. There are medicated facial tissues for cold and allergy sufferers. There are scented versions for those who prefer some fragrance. There are even lotion-infused facial tissues that provide additional comfort for long-haul users.

Our top pick, Kleenex Ultra Soft Facial Tissues, is a premium three-ply from one of the most recognized brands in the facial-tissue industry. It has exceptional absorbency and softness, especially for long-term use.

What to know before you buy facial tissue?

Paper quality

Facial tissue and bathroom tissue are similar in overall construction. Some inexpensive brands use a coarser paper product as the base and then only offer a single ply. Long-term use of these tissues often leads to redness and soreness. They may perform well enough for make-up removal but not for colds and allergies.

Better facial tissues offer at least two layers of material for strength and absorbency. Premium brands often feature three plies, and the base is derived from virgin wood pulp for additional softness. The overall quality of the tissue paper should be a major decision factor because an inferior product can cause a lot of discomfort later.

Strength and absorbency

One good argument for two-ply and three-ply facial tissues is overall strength. One layer of processed paper can easily disintegrate during use, but multiple layers will keep the tissue intact. Some brands can shed bits of paper lint because they are formulated more for softness than strength. This might not be a deal breaker for those with sensitive skin, but long-term users should opt for brands that can hold their own during an illness.

Absorbency is also a factor when evaluating facial tissues. The tissue must be able to absorb and trap liquid mucus. Inexpensive one- or two-ply brands sometimes make the process more unpleasant because they do not immediately absorb mucus. This is why softer two- and three-ply brands are so popular with cold and allergy sufferers. An absorbent facial tissue draws the mucus deeper into the paper, away from the skin.

Enhancements

Lotion

For cold and allergy sufferers, a lotion-infused facial tissue is a much-appreciated upgrade. The small amount of lotion adds to the overall softness of the tissue, and helps reduce the soreness and redness associated with long-term use. However, lotion-infused facial tissue is not ideal for other tasks, such as cleaning eyeglasses. Lotion-infused facial tissues can be more expensive, and the quantity may be more limited per box.

Virus or bacteria-killing agents

While not as easy to find on regular store shelves, there are facial tissue brands infused with virus- or bacteria-killing agents. These products can help reduce the spread of cold or flu viruses by neutralizing the shed virus on the tissue. Antibacterial facial tissue also helps decontaminate surfaces where used tissues have been discarded.

How much you can expect to spend on facial tissue

Most brands of facial tissues are affordable. An inexpensive box of one- or two-ply tissues can cost less than $1 and are often sold in bulk for a significant discount. The overall quality is variable, however. For regular home or office use, expect to pay around $3 for a box of unenhanced two- or three-ply facial tissues from recognizable brands. Premium brands with exceptional three-ply softness and absorbency cost a dollar or two more per box, while facial tissues enhanced with lotion or antibacterial/antiviral agents can average around $6 a box.

Facial tissue FAQ

Are facial tissues safe for a septic system?

A. Most facial tissues do not break down as easily as toilet tissues. You can flush a few facial tissues down the toilet in an emergency, but they will eventually start to clog a septic system before they disintegrate completely.

Are there facial tissues with virus-killing properties?

A. While many facial tissues are not treated with anything more powerful than skin lotion, there are some brands that do contain an effective virus-killing agent. This information should be included on the product’s packaging.

What’s the best facial tissue to buy?

Top facial tissue

Kleenex Ultra Soft Facial Tissues

What you need to know: These super-soft facial tissues are ideal for cold and allergy sufferers who need the absorbency and strength of a three-ply product.

What you’ll love: The sturdy three-ply construction has an exceptionally soft texture, ideal for sensitive skin. The very absorbent material is great for allergy symptoms (runny nose, frequent sneezing).

What you should consider: They can shed material during use.

Top facial tissue for the money

Amazon Basics Facial Tissues

What you need to know: These value-priced facial tissues work best as “everyday” products in the office, guest room, bathroom or bedroom.

What you’ll love: They are budget-friendly, especially in bulk. They are produced from recycled or sustainable sources, and the two-ply construction comes in attractive packaging.

What you should consider: They are not as soft on the skin as some other brands and generate significant lint.

Worth checking out

Puffs Plus Lotion Facial Tissues

What you need to know: While standard facial tissues can irritate the skin over time, these soft lotion-infused facial tissues from a trusted brand are designed to reduce soreness.

What you’ll love: The infused lotion protects sensitive or raw skin. They’re also very soft.

What you should consider: There are a limited number of tissues per box. Lotion-infused tissues cannot be used to clean glasses.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.