Innholdsfortegnelse for July/August 2021 i Good Housekeeping

TURN IT UP Start the party with big sound in a small package. Our media experts confirmed that this Wi-Fi/Bluetooth speaker can play for up to 10 hours on one charge, and it’s rugged enough for outdoor fun. CHILL OUT This cooler is made from post-consumer recycled resin; built-in cupholders on top let it double as a table. Lab Lowdown: Its sturdy construction stood up to Kitchen Appliances Lab tests. PLAYTIME Forget croquet—our toy analysts confirm that this is the hottest lawn game out there this summer. Like a cross between bowling and horseshoes, it’s a Viking-inspired game the whole crew will want to play all afternoon. STOOLS WITH STORAGE These metal barrels with wooden tops can serve as places to perch, side tables or whatever the situation requires. Plus,…

Whenever I need to shop for anything, whether it’s sunscreen, a new mattress or even a grill (see pages 91, 93, 95, 96 and 104 for this year’s best!), the first people I ask for advice are the experts in the GH Labs. They are constantly testing the things we all use in our daily lives — and can easily offer great advice to help us find the best matches for our homes, families and lifestyles. And by the way, the next time you are shopping for something important, you can access our experts’ top picks and search for reviews of any product they test at goodhousekeeping.com. But GH’s scientists do much more than just identify the right products for nearly every situation. They also help us consume in a…

When it comes to boosting radiance and evening out skin tone, the latest buzzy skincare acid is giving glycolic acid a run for its money. Tranexamic acid is an amino acid derivative with anti-inflammatory properties used in dermatology to treat concerns like sun damage, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma. Now it’s starring in OTC skincare products to illuminate dull skin and balance tone. “For melasma, tranexamic acid is thought to induce the shrinkage of blood vessels and reduce the production of pigment,” says Porcia Love, M.D., a dermatologist in Montgomery, AL. Topically, it should be safe for most, but talk to a dermatologist before using it if you have a history of blood clots or disturbances in color vision. Look for the ingredient in a serum form and apply it twice…

1. Curler shortcut Relaxed waves start near ear level, so pull hair into a ponytail and curl the hair below the elastic with a curling iron or wand, leaving about an inch loose at the ends. 2. Double buns Divide damp hair, then twist each section into a bun, securing with pins above your ears. Once dry, let loose and tousle with your fingers. 3. Flat iron hack No curler? No problem. Hold your straightener vertically, clamp it on a one-inch section of hair at ear level, then twist the iron as you move down to the ends.…

RENO TIP DON’T FORGET THE “FIFTH WALL.” “Believe it or not, your ceiling can make a design statement,” says Drew. Architectural details like honeycomb panels, or even just a fresh coat of paint, can make a big difference. BUDGET Calculate your price range. Whether your target is $5,000 or $50,000, pad it with a contingency fund of at least 10%. If you’re renovating an older home, even more is better. “Every major renovation has unexpected expenses pop up,” says Jonathan. DREW + JONATHAN’S TIPS HOW TO HIRE A CONTRACTOR Use these helpful pointers to pick the right pro: DO YOUR HOMEWORK. Ask friends and coworkers for referrals, or ring a few doorbells. “If you see a home nearby that you like, ask the homeowner who they used,” says Jonathan. Once…

RENO TIP LAYER DIFFERENT TEXTURES. Pairing wood pieces with soft textiles (think bedding, accent pillows and rugs) can bring a sense of balance to a design scheme. DECORATING Use furnishings to reflect your personality. Now the fun begins! Find functional pieces to express your style — for instance, wooden accent stools can serve as great foot props and surfaces for books. FINISHING TOUCHES Weave in trendy accents and seasonal details. Your home isn’t complete until the right accessories are in place. Cozy throw pillows, stylish lighting, striking wall art and potted plants can pull your space together in an instant. DESIGN TRENDS TO WATCH Here’s what homeowners are craving right now. SMART HOMES “People want their homes to be smart, so we try to think of low-lift ways to integrate…

1 DUMBBELL SNATCHES Works: Hamstrings, Glutes, Shoulders (A) Using a weight between 3 and 10 lbs (see page 62 for more info), stand with feet slightly wider than hip distance apart with 1 dumbbell between your legs. Slightly bend your knees and hinge at your hips as you lean your torso over to reach for the weight. (B) Grab the dumbbell with 1 hand, engage glutes and core and pull weight up and over your head as you stand. (Keep the dumbbell close to your body on the way up.) Return the weight to the ground. Repeat on the opposite side for 1 rep. Do 3 sets of 10 to 16 reps. 2 RENEGADE ROW Works: Core, Back, Biceps (A) Start in a plank (or a modified plank with knees…

A plant-based diet can positively impact your health, your pocketbook and the planet, and it doesn’t require endless salads. Your adventure starts here… 1. Partner up. Enlist a friend or family member to try the challenge with you. Having a pal can make it easier to adopt a new habit. 2. Be a prepper. As with most meal plans, a meatless week will feel less stressful if you shop and prep some meals and snacks before you begin. This plan offers tools and tricks to ace meal prepping, from our favorite airtight containers to the best veggies, nuts and grains to include. 3. Welcome plant proteins. Worried about how you’ll stay full on a meatless diet? No need! Lentils, edamame, beans, chickpeas, oats, quinoa and more make up the foundation of many satisfying…

SAY HELLO TO #CLEANERBEAUTY After 25 yrs of helping you get gorgeous, healthy looking hair, Naturtint, leader in innovative, cleaner hair color, is now the 1st USDA Certified Biobased Permanent Hair Color. Shop their full line of ecoconscious hair care. naturtintusa.com YOUR NEW FAVORITE BRA IS BACK! It's official, we're all in for soft, seamless, buttery fabrics & versatility. With a flattering, comfy, one-size fits most fit; the Joy Bra wears effortlessly throughout the day. $20 off 3 + free lingerie bag! joybra.com Code: GH721 Little Kisses, with Love from Spain Piquitos is a spritzy white Moscato wine from sunny Valencia. Light, crisp & refreshing with honey-suckle & sweet orange blossom flavors, piquitos brightens any day. The name means "little kisses." Perfect to share! drizly.com FOR A CLEAN, HEALTHY GRILL…

Recently, the scientists in the GH Textiles Lab noticed an alarming trend: A growing number of bedding and clothing brands were claiming that their products were made of bamboo, eucalyptus or other tree fibers — and consumers seemed interested, based on the growth in online searches. From their experience, our experts knew these products couldn’t contain any trace of the plants promoted in the claims, so after thorough research we selected a wide assortment of items for additional analysis. Here are the details and the results of the investigation: HOW WE TESTED Our scientists zeroed in on over 50 products clearly marketed as being made of bamboo, eucalyptus or beechwood fibers, including clothing, footwear and bedding. We bought 10 of them, reviewed their labels and sent them to an outside…

JUICY CUBES Fill ice cube trays halfway with a favorite juice. Freeze (about 2 hr.), then top with a second juice and freeze again. Finish with club soda and, if you like, a splash of vodka. FRUIT SMOOTHIES Start your day with a tasty blender beverage or reach for one as an afternoon pick-me-up. P. 108 AGUA FRESCA This invigorating drink is a combo of fruit — you can use almost any type — blended with lime juice, a sweetener and water and served over ice. You can also freeze it into ice cubes for a flavorful addition to sparkling wine or water. P. 108 CHERRY COCKTAIL SYRUP In small saucepan, combine 1½ cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries, ½ cup each sugar and water and 1 tsp black peppercorns…

GRILLED FAJITA KEBABS Q M Active 30 min. | Total 30 min. 3 limes1 tsp ground coriander½ tsp ground cuminPinch of cayenne4 Tbsp olive oil, divided1 lb large peeled and deveined shrimp, tails discarded1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1½-in. pieces1 lb mixed-color peppers, cut into 1-in. pieces3 jalapeños, sliced ½ in. thick2 small red onions, cut into 1-in.-thick wedges Kosher salt and pepper12 small flour tortillas Sour cream, sliced radishes and chopped cilantro, for serving 1. Finely grate zest of 1 lime into bowl. Add coriander, cumin, cayenne and 2 Tbsp oil and mix to combine. Transfer half to medium bowl and toss with shrimp. In second bowl, toss chicken with remaining mixture. 2. Thread each protein onto its own skewer. Halve all limes. 3. Toss peppers,…

THAT’S GENIUS! For air bubbles that are difficult to remove, use a pin or a thumbtack to make a tiny hole in each bubble. This technique will release excess air and allow you to smooth the paper.…

WHY IT EARNED THE GH SEAL Bissell Symphony Pet is a one-stop floor vacuum and powerhouse mop. From daily oopses to fluffy fur and muddy paw prints, cleaning up after all your family members just got much easier! 1 ULTIMATE CLEANING AND SANITIZING Whether you want to vacuum up dry debris, mop without chemicals or deep-clean to kill germs, this appliance can do it. Adjust the steam—high or low—to match your floor type and mess. Attach the washable microfiber pad and make at least three slow passes over an area to kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria. 2 FOOLPROOF OPERATION Our experts found the digital controls a cinch to use and the handle comfortable to hold. In our tests, switching between the washable and disposable mop pads was simple and…

QUICK CHOWDER In saucepan, sauté 1 large onion (chopped) in 2 Tbsp olive oil until tender. Add ½ lb potatoes (cut into ½-in. chunks), 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup half-and-half; simmer 12 min. Add 2½ cups corn kernels; simmer until potatoes are tender, 3 min. Puree half of soup. Serve topped with bacon and scallions. COUSCOUS SALAD Cook 2 cups pearl couscous; rinse to cool. Combine ¼ cup olive oil; 2 tsp grated lemon zest plus ¼ cup lemon juice; and ½ tsp salt. Stir in couscous, 1 shallot (finely chopped), 1½ pints small cherry tomatoes (halved) and 1½ cups corn kernels. Toss with 2 cups mixed herbs (parsley, basil, mint, chives; chopped) and ½ cup grated Parmesan. SHRIMP FRITTERS In bowl, whisk together ½ cup cornmeal,…

REFRESH SWEATERS “This affordable gadget (Conair Fabric Shaver, $13) shaves fuzz, lint and pills off most fabrics, keeping my clothes looking like new.” —Amanda Garrity, associate lifestyle editor CALM MORNINGS “I wake up before my two small kids to read, have a cup of coffee or tea and plan my day in a way that helps alleviate the stress that comes with being a working mom.” —Monique Valeris, senior home editor CLEAN BROKEN GLASS “Press a slice of soft bread onto the floor like a stamp to pick up all the tiny shards. It really works!” —Marisa LaScala, parenting and relationships editor…

FOR OILY SKIN To get serious exfoliation, rub on this heavy-duty salt scrub from one of the GH Beauty Lab’s go-to bodycare brands: It helps purify skin with minimal ingredients, including peppermint and rosemary, for a spa-like experience. FOR DRY SKIN A solid shea butter balm that’s a GH beauty editor favorite, this sugarbased scrub won’t dry out or irritate skin the way salt-based versions can, and it is so rich in oils like sweet almond and jojoba that you may not need a separate moisturizer. FOR SENSITIVE SKIN This gentle formula’s exfoliators are suspended in a cream made of nourishing plant oils, extracts and butters like rose and coconut. “Skin is left feeling hydrated and soft,” says GH Beauty Lab Director Birnur Aral, Ph.D. BEST BODY SCRUBS Full reviews…

how we tested: GH Beauty Lab scientists evaluated new body razors, waxes, depilatories and epilators across price points on 313 testers for: • Ease of use• Scent (if applicable), irritation, pain level• Hair-removal effectiveness• Look and feel of skin• How long results lasted…

RESALE Choose a timeless palette for high-value rooms. If you’re going to splurge, focus on an area like a bathroom with a tub or the kitchen to help lure a potential buyer should you decide to sell your home in the future. Depending on the project, the return on investment can be over 53% (source: Remodeling magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report”). Adhering to a stunning black-and-white palette is wise so the next owner is less likely to feel the urge to renovate. 20% Between August 2019 and August 2020, more than 74 million homeowners remodeled their homes, a 20% increase over the same period the previous year.— COMSCORE SUSTAINABILITY Invest in eco-smart elements. Replacing windows and installing weather stripping are great ways to reduce your energy bill and maximize natural…

In April 2018, after teaching her usual class at a college near her home in Northern California, then-40-year-old Jocelyn Arild drove an hour south for a very important meeting. Waiting for her at a secluded church that afternoon were the man who had raped her 20 years earlier and a woman who would help them talk about the assault. “I wanted to meet at the church because it was a peaceful place — and I felt the work we were doing was sacred,” says Jocelyn. “But as I pulled into the parking lot, my heart was pounding so hard, I could feel it in my ears.” A conversation like this may sound highly unusual — not to mention stressful and potentially traumatic — but it’s part of a philosophy called…

BEST FOR BEGINNERS Available in sets that are 3 lbs or 5 lbs each, these light hexagonal dumbbells are ideal for those new to strength training or for toning workouts. Testers loved the comfortable grip and cheerful colors. BEST ALL-AROUND An excellent value for the price, these weights have a hexagonal shape that keeps them from rolling and a nonslip rubber coating. Our testers found them durable and comfortable to grip through several different movements. MOST VERSATILE Each dumbbell in this set can adjust from 5 lbs to 52.5 lbs and transitions smoothly between weights. The space-saving benefits make them a great option, but they may be damaged if dropped.…

HEALTHY SNACK AWARDS…

DYNAMO ORGANIC PROTEIN BAR These minimally processed bars are made with real-food ingredients and never with stevia or sugar alcohols. Each bar has 14 g of protein and is packed with iron, fiber and healthy fats. LAB RESULTS Testers enjoyed the coconut-chocolate-almond flavor profile. One described it as a “wonderful flavorful snack!” ANCIENT-GRAIN INNOVATION These light, crunchy airpopped chips are made from 100% whole-grain sorghum, brown rice, quinoa and chia. LAB RESULTS Our dietitian loves the innovation that transforms these nutritious whole grains into chip form. “I’m adding these to my snacking rotation!” a tester said. A+ HIGH PROTEIN OATMEAL This plant-based protein oatmeal is powered by 7 g of protein from peas and chickpeas. With a blend of oats, quinoa, amaranth, chia and flax, it has great texture and…

A chemical-heavy process removes all trace of the original substance. GROW RAW MATERIAL Plants or trees are harvested, then chopped into pieces. TURN TO PULP The pieces are chemically processed into pulp consisting of cellulose, leaving behind virtually everything from the original plant. DISSOLVE IN CHEMICALS The pulp gets chemically turned into a liquid, removing any remnants of the raw material. FORM INTO FIBERS Next, the liquid goes through a spinneret, a device with small holes, where it’s transformed into fibers in a chemical bath. FINISH THE FABRIC The processed fibers are cleaned and made into yarn for fabric.…

NOW YOU KNOW Rib Crib Sheet*x BABY BACK RIBS This cut is from the upper ribs attached to the pork loin. Dubbed “baby” because of their small size, they’re lean, juicy and meaty. Roast ’em, smoke ’em, eat ’em. ST. LOUIS RIBS These are spareribs, which are found by the belly, with the tips and skirt removed. The result is a flat, fatty rectangular rack that requires less cooking time — perfect for browning in a pan before grilling. *Crib sheet: A concise set of rules for quick reference (not bedding for a baby!) IN YOUR PANTRY BBQ Sauces Slather these winners over any protein or vegetable for a sweet, spicy, tangy kick.…

@nicole_papantoniou HOW WE TEST GRILLS The experts in the GH Kitchen Appliances Lab assessed over 50 grills, including gas, charcoal, kamado style, pellet and portable styles. We evaluated performance, ease of use and bonus features like side shelves, tool holders, mobility and more. During our tests we cooked 56 steaks and 220 pieces of chicken to rate cooking time while keeping an eye on smoking and flare-ups. When looking at gas grills, we toasted nearly 1,000 slices of bread to determine how evenly the grills heated. We also scored the user guides and usefulness of smart features and connected apps when applicable. BEST TABLETOP GRILL This small charcoal grill is solidly built and can be used for smoking too. Large handles on the sides allow for simple moving and storage,…

For two years, Ruby, my 6-year-old daughter, had begged that we open a restaurant in our backyard. Before the pandemic, I would take 30 seconds to explain why we couldn’t; then I’d redirect her to another activity. But in November of last year, she added a twist to her pitch: “We could ask for money and give it to charity!” Unable to resist such altruism, I paused. “I want to see a detailed plan,” I said. Usually asking for a written plan was a nonstarter — she’d roll her eyes and return to her puzzle, Play-Doh or tub of LEGO bricks. But this time she recruited her 8-year-old brother, Clay, and they got to work. Ruby drew menus with pancakes and yellow squares of butter in crayon; Clay practiced the…

FEEL-GOOD READ What a Happy Family by Saumya Dave You can’t pick your family, but they’re supposed to love you no matter what, right? Those are the boundaries aspiring comedian Natasha tests in this sweet, funny and deeply touching novel. Natasha’s family, the Joshis, are the envy of their Atlanta Indian enclave—at least to the casual observer. Deepak and Bina are pillars of their community, he a successful psychiatrist and she the consummate wife and mother. Their eldest daughter, Suhani, is following in her father’s footsteps; Natasha is about to become engaged to a childhood friend; and their only son, Anuj, is the golden boy. But then a crisis reveals that all isn’t as perfect as it seems. Natasha finds herself in a downward spiral, Bina has to reckon with…

Q Do I really need sunscreen for my scalp and hair? —Ann M. A: Yes, if you’ll be outside for an extended period. Any exposed scalp skin—and even strands—can be susceptible to UV damage. In fact, around 7% of melanoma skin cancers occur on the scalp, as the top of the head faces the sun’s rays directly. “And if hair starts to thin as you get older, you can become a bit more susceptible, because you don’t have as much natural scalp protection,” says Sophia Reid, M.D., a dermatologist in Closter, NJ. Sun exposure can also dehydrate hair, cause breakage and alter color. Wear a tightly woven hat, scarf or head wrap that covers your scalp and hairline, tucking any strands underneath, or apply an oil-free, water-resistant broad-spectrum sunscreen with…

Summer is full of wonderful things—but melting foundation, smeared eyeliner and sticky lipstick are not among them. Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab experts and top makeup artists spill their hot-weather rules for skin, eyes and more. Skin Steps Prep with the right moisturizer. The way you care for your skin is just as important as the makeup you put on it. “Use an oil-free moisturizer in the morning,” suggests Fiona Stiles, a celebrity makeup artist in Los Angeles, and opt for an oil-free foundation formula to match. These will be less likely to leave your face greasy throughout the day, especially in hot weather. GH Beauty Lab pick: Good Housekeeping Seal star No7 HydraLuminous Water Surge Gel Oil-Free, $15, drugstores Don’t leave home without SPF. Besides hydrating your skin, you…

WATER-LIKE FORMULA Moisturizer really can be as weightless as water: Enter this GH Beauty Award–winning lotion with a unique melting gel formulation that’s absorbed “lightning fast” so there’s “no wait for it to soak in,” GH Beauty Lab experts found. SCENTED LOTION A top performer in the Lab’s body lotion test, it raised hydration by 52% over six hours per measurement with the Corneometer device, yet rated best for not leaving skin feeling greasy. Plus, 89% of testers agreed that it had a pleasant scent. EASY-ON SPRAY A GH Beauty Award winner, this innovative body moisturizer is a featherlight liquid that can be spritzed onto skin so application is “easier and faster” than with regular lotions, according to Beauty Lab evaluation. UNSCENTED LOTION Maximum hydration with minimal residue, this formula…

We’ve all been there: Things are just fine, and then suddenly your mood hits the skids and you think, Ugh! How did that happen? Your mood is a balance of your thoughts, environmental influences (such as where you are and who is around) and life events as well as your physiological state (are you cold or hangry, or do you have to pee?). A change to one or more of these factors could take you for an unscheduled — and unpleasant — emotional ride. Here are seven common sour-mood scenarios and how you can move through them to a better headspace. THE SITUATION: Your friend vented to you, and now you feel bummed. This is a case of emotional contagion, an incredibly basic (even primitive) phenomenon. During conversations, humans naturally…

In 2016, spurred by Access Hollywood’s revelations of Donald Trump’s lewd remarks, Kevin Lynch, now 64, wrote a blog encouraging men to become more accountable for victimizing women. In it, he admitted that he had raped a woman he’d met at a bar when he was in his early 20s. “I had been carrying around guilt and shamefor 40 years. I had reached a point where I wanted to help men understand the consequences of their actions,” he says. More than a year later, he joined a “vicarious” restorative justice session organized by Alissa Ackerman, Ph.D., a sex crimes policy researcher at California State University, Fullerton. For the session, Kevin met with a facilitator, his own support person and four women who had been raped. “The women were still feeling…

How many weight sets should I buy? This depends on your budget and the space you have. Ideally you’ll want at least three pairs: light (2 lbs to 8 lbs), medium (10 lbs to 20 lbs) and heavy (25 lbs to 35 lbs). That way you’ll have a range of weights to work everything from smaller muscle groups, like your shoulders and biceps, to bigger ones, like your quads and hamstrings. What if I have room for only one set of weights? Not everyone wants to turn their living room into a gym! Luckily there are great adjustable dumbbells out there that are all-in-one. And you’d be surprised by how much you can challenge yourself with just one pair of 8-lb dumbbells. How do I know whether the weights I’m…

BRILLIANT BUG CONTROL Get rid of fruit flies, gnats, mosquitoes and other flying insects in your home with these pesticide-free adhesive traps from Zevo. Just plug one into a wall outlet and it’ll work 24/7 to attract and eliminate pesky bugs without chemicals, unpleasant odors or mess. When a trap is full, replace the cartridge with a refill, which can last about 45 days. A convenient new design allows you to rotate the trap to meet your needs. LAB RESULTS Our Lab experts applaud the trap’s innovative technology, which uses blue and UV light to attract flying insects to its sticky surface. GH analysts found that the traps started working immediately and provided noticeable results within hours of activation. For more pest-control options, consider Zevo pest-control sprays, which also have earned…

Bedsheets This 100% lyocell fabric is moisture wicking and incredibly smooth, and it’s made in a Fair Trade Certified factory. Bath Towels Their ultra-plush feel is achieved through combining cotton with lyocell fibers. Clothing Soft, stylish and not too heavy, this lyocell-blend sweatshirt is the perfect wardrobe staple. Shoes A hemp and cotton upper, a lyocell lining and soles of consciously sourced rubber help reduce these boots’ eco footprint. For more details about our investigation and the products we tested, go to goodhousekeeping.com/fiberinvestigation.…

Q ASK THE EXPERT There are so many different kinds of grills on the market now. What type should I buy?—STEVE W. A: You know gas and charcoal, but these days kamado and pellet styles may start appearing in more backyards near you. Kamado grills are egg-shaped and use charcoal to heat. They have thick (usually ceramic) walls that allow them to retain heat well and can reach very high temps, similar to a pizza oven. Pellet grills look like traditional BBQs but use electricity to heat compressed-wood pellets that can slow-cook brisket, sear steak and even bake macaroni and cheese. Gas grills heat the fastest but provide the least flavor enhancement. And charcoal grills can be the least expensive and impart great smoky flavor, but controlling the temperature of…

Q: Should I use foil on the grill? —SHANON M. A: It depends. I don’t typically use foil because I prefer food to have direct contact with the grates, which helps it cook quickly and creates those quintessential summertime grill marks. Using foil also forces food to steam without browning, so you won’t be able to get a good sear. Foil does have its place, however, when it comes to grilling. If you don’t have a grill basket, you can use foil to help prevent small foods from falling between the grates; just remember that they likely won’t char. You can also use it to wrap foods to create a steamy environment that will give tender results for foods such as ribs that need long, slow cooking. Foil also makes…