Innehållsförteckning för May/June 2024 från Good Housekeeping

These vines climb in style! Blogger Ursula Carmona of Home Made by Carmona handcrafted this eye-catching gold trellis attached to her shed using a hand torch, brazing rods and aluminum bars—a metalwork project fit for beginners. Encourage young vines to grow by gently looping tendrils around picture frame wire and adding loose twist ties to secure the greens. “It may take time, but I’m slowly transforming every overlooked area in my yard,” says Carmona. For complete instructions, go to homemadebycarmona.com/diy-wall-trellis.…

Hi! I’m so excited and honored to be part of Good House keeping’s first-ever accessibility issue! This issue is all about shining a light on the disability community and the ways in which accessibility can improve everyone’s lives and experiences. Being in a wheelchair has helped me develop a level of patience, creativity and resilience that I wouldn’t have otherwise. Sure, it has also tested and challenged me. I’ve doubted myself along the way. But it certainly hasn’t prevented me from chasing my dreams. One hundred years ago, my dreams wouldn’t have been possible — as someone in a wheelchair, I wouldn’t have been allowed to attend school, much less perform on Broadway. Still, it’s hard to believe the Americans with Disabilities Act, a long overdue law that protects people…

Triple-Duty Exfoliator Garnier breaks the mold with a never-before-seen combo of makeup remover, cleanser and acid exfoliator in one. Lab Results: The liquid is mild enough for daily use. It “didn’t sting eyes or skin,” and skin was left “smoother and clearer.” GARNIER SKINACTIVE MICELLAR CLEANSING PEELING WATER, $10, WALMART Hydrating Serum Unlike heavy hydrators, L’Oréal Paris gives even oily or combo skin a dose of moisture via a water-light formula.  Lab Results: It soaks in fast, isn’t thick or greasy and imparts an instant plump, moisturized feel, Lab assessment found. L’ORÉAL PARIS REVITALIFT DERM INTENSIVES 1.5% PURE HYALURONIC ACID SERUM, $33, DRUGSTORES Sheerest Sunscreen La Roche-Posay came out on top in the Beauty Lab’s face SPF test thanks to a finish that was invisible even on dark skin.  Lab…

Ideal Hairdryer Dry hair quickly but gently with Beauty Lab test winner Bio Ionic’s “power” tool. Lab Results: It dried hair samples in 65 seconds in Lab measurements yet had the lowest air temperature at the highest setting, making it less harsh on hair and scalp. It was easy to control too. BIO IONIC GRAPHENEMX HAIR DRYER, $245, BIOIONIC.COM 2-in-1 Straightener This buzzy Dyson styler changes the game by drying and straightening hair at the same time using high-pressure airflow rather than intense heat. Lab Results: Testers with various hair types and textures gave it superior scores for being elegant and achieving a sleek “salon-level” look with no visible damage. DYSON AIRSTRAIT, $500, SEPHORA.COM Innovative Curling Iron A twist on your typical curler (literally!), Beauty Lab test-winning CHI features a…

BEAUTY LAB TOP-TESTED BREAKTHROUGH SEAL STAR NEW & HOT BARGAIN BUY TIME-TESTED TOP TREND Gleamy Highlighter Traditional powder makeup is now being outshone by sheer cream, liquid and oil formulas with luminous natural finishes, like this much-hyped E.L.F. Cosmetics highlighter. Lab Results: The multiuse formula (for all over the face or specific spots) got a perfect score for applying evenly, blending into skin, appearing natural and creating the desired look. A user raved, “Absolutely amazing!” and another said, “I got so many compliments.” E.L.F. COSMETICS HALO GLOW LIQUID FILTER, $14, TARGET.COM Luscious Lipstick Swipe on this Thrive Causemetics cream lipstick for full color (ranging from neutral to bold) that feels cushiony on lips. Bonus: For each purchase of the brand’s products, a donation is made to a nonprofit. Lab Results:…

To save space, go vertical. Need to sleep as many guests as possible? A bunk bed might be the best fit. In this Florida home, designer Liz Williams opted for stairs rather than a ladder, since they’re “easier and safer for children and adults,” she says. An all-white palette with painted pecky cypress ties it all together: “We decided to keep this wall consistent with the bunks and other white walls so everything would be light, bright and less choppy.” More than one in four disabled people lives alone (27%), compared with around one in 10 nondisabled people (12%). Make the most of an A-frame. An angled roof can easily become a design opportunity. Finished in Sherwin-Williams’s Pure White, this one has two elements of surprise: a compact bookshelf and…

Whether you’re in a panic about feeding your newly vegan kid or managing appointments for a parent’s illness, you likely have a lot keeping you up. Add biology, and if you wake up ready to embrace the day, you’re one of the lucky ones. In your teens and 20s sleep was so easy you could do it, well, with your eyes closed. But with age come saboteurs like hormonal changes and a weakening circadian rhythm, the body’s 24-hour biological clock that governs sleep patterns, appetite, temperature regulation and more. No shock, then, that about a third of U.S. women report rarely or never waking up feeling rested, per a new survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Sadly, the fallout goes beyond feeling draggy and irritable: Chronic poor sleep…

Nibble on this to kick off berry season: Strawberries have anti-inflammatory powers, boasting considerable amounts of vitamin C and other potent antioxidants—good news, as so many of us are on a mission to tame body-wide inflammation. Research also suggests that the humble strawberry may help reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease when eaten regularly as part of a balanced diet. The latest out of San Diego State University is that eating strawberries daily may improve brain function and blood pressure. In the trial, funded by the California Strawberry Commission, participants consumed 26 g of either freeze-dried strawberry powder (the equivalent of 2 cups of fresh strawberries) or a control powder each day for eight weeks, after which researchers measured various cognition markers. The strawberry group showed…

1. Five-Star Sateen Among the softest sheets we’ve tested, this set from The Company Store is made of Supima cotton (a premium variety) and feels smooth yet not too silky. Testers called the fabric “the perfect thickness.” THE COMPANY STORE LEGENDS HOTEL SUPIMA COTTON WRINKLE-FREE SATEEN SHEET SET, $284 FOR QUEEN 2. Breathable Basic Brooklinen’s organic cotton set combines a classic and airy percale weave with a garment-wash finish to help it achieve its softness. Testers said it felt crisp and cool, and its fabric aced our Lab’s pilling tests. BROOKLINEN ORGANIC COTTON SHEET SET, $239 FOR QUEEN 3. Cozy Microfiber This best-selling set from Mellanni is a fan favorite thanks to its low cost and buttery-smooth feel. It comes in dozens of colors and more than 15 sizes. Our…

Fluffy Down Alternative Amazon’s best-selling bed pillow is from Beckham Hotel Collection, and a set of two offers great value. The synthetic down fill felt plush yet supportive to many sleep testers, who also said it maintained its shape well throughout the night. “It molded to my head and neck,” one told us. BECKHAM HOTEL COLLECTION BED PILLOWS, $60 FOR TWO, AMAZON Adaptable Down Certified by the Responsible Down Standard, Downlite has a lofty 600 fill power and a removable pillow-in-a-pillow design for adjustable firmness. Testers said it felt airy, with one calling it “light while at the same time super supportive.” DOWNLITE 3-IN-1 ADJUSTABLE WHITE GOOSE DOWN PILLOW, FROM $200, DOWNLITEBEDDING.COM Contouring Foam Tuft & Needle’s cushiony foam pillow is designed to conform to your head. It kept its…

These layers use special features to enhance your resting experience whether you’re snoozing or lounging. Game-Changing Foot Cover The solution to cold toes poking out under blankets, Lovesac’s style has a pocket at the bottom that feet can be tucked into. It was a hit with our textiles analysts, with one calling it “simply genius.” The faux-fur fabric felt soft and indulgent to lie under. LOVESAC FOOTSAC, FROM $150 Cozy Electric Heat Not only is Bedsure’s blanket comfy, with a velvety top and sherpa fabric underneath, but it also has built-in warming capabilities. Its attached control offers six heat levels and four time settings. In tests, it heated quickly with even distribution. BEDSURE RIBBED FLANNEL HEATED BLANKET, FROM $40, AMAZON…

1 REASSESS YOUR APPLIANCES. Installing an under-counter microwave or fridge or raising your dishwasher makes kitchen tasks easier for folks in wheelchairs or with other mobility challenges. Shelly Rosenberg, founder of Acorn & Oak, a design company focused on families raising kids with disabilities, recommends an induction cooktop, which doesn’t heat with an exposed flame like a gas range and cools down faster than an electric range (features such as this improve safety for neurodivergent family members). Top-Tested: Induction Cooktop With four heating elements (two of which can become a bridge burner), this GE Profile model lets you cook a full weeknight dinner quickly and easily. There is a control lock for added safety. GE PROFILE 30" INDUCTION COOKTOP, $2,443, APPLIANCESCONNECTION.COM 2 ADD SLIDE-OUT STORAGE. No one wants to deal with…

2-IN-1 SHOWERHEAD This two-in-one showering kit combines a showerhead with a hand shower so you can direct water whether you’re standing or sitting. LAB RESULTS: Select showerheads from Kohler’s Purist collection deliver multifunctional sprays, from full coverage to invigorating massage. We love that the hand shower slides along its mounting bar for pinpoint control. KOHLER PURIST SHOWERING KIT, $831, KOHLER.COM EASY GRAB BAR Elegant yet functional, this handrail from Pottery Barn’s Accessible Home Collection can be installed in any bathroom to help you get into and out of the shower or around the bathroom. LAB RESULTS: Our experts love this ADA-compliant design that’s available in three modern finishes: chrome, brass and matte black. POTTERY BARN LINDEN GRAB BAR, $89, POTTERYBARN.COM TOILET UPGRADE Transform your toilet for nearly hands-free hygiene. This…

CRYSTAL CLEAR VIEW Window World’s 6000-Series Vinyl Windows can boost your home’s comfort and efficiency thanks to impressive weather resistance and low-emissivity (“low-e”) coatings that reflect heat but let in light. Top and bottom sashes of the double-hung windows tilt open for easy cleaning. Choose from numerous colors and designs to suit your style. LAB RESULTS GH’s mechanical engineers reviewed third-party data that certifies that these windows have passed the toughest tests for weather resistance and durability. We also like the wide range of configurations, the full-service support and the lifetime limited warranty. WINDOW WORLD 6000-SERIES VINYL WINDOWS, PRICES VARY, WINDOWWORLD.COM THRILL FOR YOUR GRILL Weiman Stove & Oven Cleaner can clean stovetops as well as oven interiors and racks—but its usefulness doesn’t end in the kitchen. Versatile and effective,…

PICNIC PERFECT Noodles and crunchy vegetables like green beans hold up well when toted to the beach or the park. Another secret to fresh feasts alfresco: coolers! Turn to page 84 for some of the Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab’s hot picks. MEAL PREP MAGIC Set yourself up for success all week by stocking your fridge with extra protein. Double the batch of chicken and stash leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Wondering how to use it up? Mix with rice, halved cherry tomatoes and chopped cucumbers and drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette. Stuff into tortillas with grated Monterey Jack and pickled jalapeños, then cook on the griddle. Top with salsa and sour cream. Spread French bread with barbecue sauce, then top with mozzarella, chopped chicken, cilantro…

• TESTED til PERFECT • Cheers to Summer! p. 96 TOMATO AND FETA BAKED EGGS Q V O Active 20 min. | Total 25 min. 2 pints grape tomatoes, halved if large2 Tbsp olive oil, divided½ tsp smoked paprikaKosher salt and pepper¾ tsp coriander seeds¾ tsp cumin seeds6 oz feta cheese, crumbled8 large eggs⅓ cup basil leaves, roughly chopped1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice1 5-oz pkg. mixed greens4 slices country bread, toasted 1. Heat oven to 450°F. On rimmed baking sheet, toss tomatoes with 1 Tbsp oil, smoked paprika and ½ tsp each salt and pepper. Roast until tomatoes start to release liquid and break down, 8 min. 2. Meanwhile, using mortar and pestle, crush coriander and cumin seeds until coarsely ground. 3. When tomatoes are ready, sprinkle evenly with feta. Using back…

ARUGULA CHIMICHURRI In food processor, pulse 1 small shallot and 1 clove garlic until finely chopped. Add 5 Tbsp olive oil, 3 Tbsp red wine vinegar, ¼ tsp red pepper flakes and ½ tsp each kosher salt and pepper and pulse to combine. Add 3 cups baby arugula and 1 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves and pulse, scraping bowl if needed, until finely chopped. Spoon over meat, chicken, fish, vegetables or potatoes. Makes 1 scant cup. SUN-DRIED TOMATO VINAIGRETTE SALAD On baking sheet, toss 4 oz sourdough bread (torn into ½-in. pieces) with 2 Tbsp olive oil and a pinch each of kosher salt and pepper. Bake at 350°F until crisp, 16 min. In blender, puree ¼ cup each basil, olive oil and drained sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil; 3 Tbsp sherry…

TOP TREND Pro Glow Treatment This first-of-its-kind Skinvive by Juvéderm procedure is part of the new wave of “tweakments,” or minimally invasive low to no-downtime professional skincare treatments. Dozens of microdroplets of hyaluronic acid are injected into skin to hydrate and smooth, boosting radiance for up to six months. Lab Results: “Digital imaging with the Visia Complexion Analyzer showed more light reflecting off my skin,” Beauty Lab Reviews Analyst Chiara Butler reported. “It looks smoother and feels firm, hydrated and plump.” SKINVIVE BY JUVÉDERM, STARTING AT $650, ALLE.COM FOR PROVIDERS Clever Eye Cream Unlike many formulas just for undereye use, this dual-sided Roc Skincare jar holds a firming retinol gel for lids and a nourishing peptide cream to smooth lower-eye lines and brighten.  Lab Results: “After first application, we noticed…

Hair-Removal Device The GH Beauty Lab test-winning Panasonic epilator rapidly tweezes even tiny hairs for supersmooth results (plus, it doubles as a shaver and a trimmer). Lab Results: In testing, 100% of users found that it effectively removed hair from underarms, legs and the bikini area without irritation. “It moved around my body contours,” one said. PANASONIC ES-EL7A-P EPILATOR & SHAVER SYSTEM, $85, AMAZON Soothing Exfoliator This soft scrub from Aveeno sloughs off rough skin while transporting the senses with a mini aromatherapy session thanks to calming lavender extract. Lab Results: The formula is gentle enough for everyday use and suitable for even reactive and dry skin. “It’s effective at smoothing skin yet not abrasive,” Wizemann said. AVEENO STRESS RELIEF BODY SCRUB, $8, AMAZON Brilliant Body Lotion Vaseline’s decadent lotion…

Magic Tinted Moisturizer For light coverage that doubles as concealer, turn to Keys Soulcare; while many tinted moisturizers come in a few hues, this offers a wide range (40!). Lab Results: It rated best for ease of application, leaving skin feeling silky and not irritating or changing color during the day. Testers lauded the “natural looking,” “glowy” finish. KEYS SOULCARE IT’S LIKE SKIN 2-IN-1 CONCEALER + TINT, $28, AMAZON Perfect 10 Foundation This luxe liquid from Gucci Beauty — a full coverage, satin-matte finish that comes in 40 shades—beat the competition in GH Beauty Lab testing. Lab Results: The base ranked first for being buildable and hiding blemishes and was the overall tester favorite. “It made skin look smooth” and “didn’t feel heavy,” two remarked. GUCCI BEAUTY ÉTERNITÉ DE BEAUTÉ 24H…

BEAUTY LAB TOP-TESTED BREAKTHROUGH SEAL STAR NEW & HOT BARGAIN BUY TIME-TESTED Standout Skincare Purifying Cleanser ELTAMD OIL-IN-GEL CLEANSER, $35, AMAZON Clarifying Toner BELIF AQUA BOMB PHA EXFOLIATING TONER PADS, $24, SEPHORA Rejuvenating Night Serum FRESH LOTUS YOUTH PRESERVE RESURFACING DREAM SERUM, $68, FRESH.COM Calming Cream DERMALOGICA STABILIZING REPAIR CREAM, $64, ULTA Nourishing Face Oil FURTUNA SKIN DUE ALBERI BIPHASE MOISTURIZING OIL, $225, NEIMAN MARCUS Acne Treatment DIFFERIN GEL, $15, DRUGSTORES Line-Smoothing Device NIRA PRO LASER, $599, NIRASKIN.COM Anti-Aging Pro Treatment GALDERMA SCULPTRA, FROM $800 DEPENDING ON LOCATION, SCULPTRAUSA.COM Resurfacing Pro Treatment CARTESSA AESTHETICS VIRTUERF MICRONEEDLING, $800+, VIRTUERF.COM Incredible Body + Spa Softening Body Wash SALTAIR SANTAL BLOOM BODY WASH, $12, SALTAIR.COM Exfoliating Body Cream AMLACTIN DAILY VITAMIN C 7% LACTIC ACID CREAM, $16, AMAZON Glowing Self-Tanner COOLA ORGANIC SUNLESS…

I haven’t always been blind. When my wife was pregnant, I developed a cataract that prevented me from driving at night, and when my daughter was 3 weeks old I underwent cataract surgery. Unfortunately, I had a bad reaction to post-surgery medications and the once-clear window I had seen out of was replaced with a blurry pinhole. At first I couldn’t help but feel sorry for myself. How could I possibly contribute to raising my daughter? But over the years I’ve learned that I can do much more than I initially imagined. Parenting while blind has presented my family and me with more than a few unique challenges, but as any other parent can probably understand, I’ve learned that there’s always a solution to a problem, even if you have…

Spring brings many wonderful things (baseball! iced coffee!), but for the around 29% of women and 21% of men who have seasonal allergies, it can also mean keeping tissues in every pocket, constantly dabbing at a runny nose and itchy eyes. In most of the U.S., the spring allergy season starts in March and April, when pollen from trees such as oak, birch and mulberry starts to fly. This is followed by an onslaught of pollen from grasses including rye, timothy and oat in June and July. Fall, of course, brings a whole different set of allergies, primarily to ragweed. But with climate change causing some plants to produce pollen earlier because of warmer temps, it’s best to prepare well in advance, says Edith Schussler, M.D., a pediatric allergist at…

CREATED BY GOOD HOUSEKEEPING FOR Though their diagnoses with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)—an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation and can lead to irreversible scarring of the liver that potentially can lead to its failure—came almost 30 years apart, patient advocates Kathy and Amber (last names protected for privacy) share more than their common condition. Good Housekeeping spoke with them about this rare disease and how their friendship has helped them stay strong through life with PBC. GHK: WHAT WAS YOUR LIFE LIKE BEFORE YOU WERE DIAGNOSED WITH PBC? Amber: I was diagnosed with PBC four years ago, in between the births of my eldest child and my twin daughters. My life was very active. I nannied and worked as a youth minister. Line dancing is a favorite hobby of…

MATTRESSES High-Value Hybrid Described as contouring and supportive by a consumer tester, this Serta model is made up of six distinct layers, including memory foam for pressure relief and coils for support. And though most hybrids are pricey, this one is a fantastic value at under $1,000. Our reviewer also praised the edge support and told us, “I no longer wake up feeling achy. I now wake up feeling refreshed.” Choose from three firmness levels to match your preference. SERTA PERFECT SLEEPER HYBRID MATTRESS, $999 FOR QUEEN Unparalleled Comfort This mattress from Bear consistently amazes sleep testers, who give it top marks. With a hybrid construction using foam and coils, it’s a luxurious 14 inches high. It comes in soft, medium and firm, though none is too soft or too firm.…

FASENRA is proven to help: • Prevent asthma attacks • Improve breathing • Lower daily use of oral steroids* FASENRA 8-week dosing offers patients the fewest doses per year.†,‡ *Results may vary.† The first 3 doses are given on day 1, week 4, and week 8.‡ Dosing comparisons do not imply similar efficacy or safety. Talk to your doctor or visit FASENRA.com APPROVED USE FASENRA is a prescription medicine used with other asthma medicines for the maintenance treatment of asthma in people 12 years and older whose asthma is not controlled with their current asthma medicines. FASENRA is not used to treat other problems caused by eosinophils and is not used to treat sudden breathing problems. It is not known if FASENRA is safe and effective in children under 12 years of…

Discreet Protector Using a protector is the easiest way to extend the life of your mattress, but you’ll want one that doesn’t affect comfort or sleep quality. Airley’s waterproof cover prevents damage from spills, allergens and everyday wear and tear, with a Tencel top layer for softness and breathability. Sleep testers unanimously said it was quiet and undetectable. One raved, “I couldn’t feel it under the sheets; no plasticky sounds when moving.” AIRLEY TENCEL JACQUARD MATTRESS PROTECTOR, $139 FOR QUEEN, AIRLEY.COM Ultra-Pleasant Pad Sijo’s mattress pad adds a subtle layer of softness to a bed without drastically changing the feel, and it has cooling capabilities thanks to its temperature regulating fill. It was easy to put on, and testers said it felt comfortable. One user told us, “It is quiet,…

1 ADJUST YOUR BED AND FURNITURE. Whether you experience chronic pain or share the bed with someone with different sleep habits, a split adjustable base can personalize your position to help keep you aligned and create equity. You can raise the head and foot remotely, and some beds feature charging ports or dual controls. Our pros also recommend bed rails that serve as grab bars for those with balance issues or people transferring to mobility devices. Innovative Bedside Table Offering a side table with a shelf that provides leverage for those who need help getting into and out of bed, Sleep Number earned praise from our pros for integrating accessibility into its everyday furniture. LIFESTYLE COLLECTION SIDE TABLE, $300, SLEEPNUMBER.COM 2 MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR CLOSET. A closet with both…

TOP-TESTED Coolers Under $100 Great-value options for every occasion Hard-Sided Made from recycled materials, this lightweight cooler excelled at retaining temperature during our three-day test. IGLOO ECOCOOL LATITUDE 52 QT COOLER, $60 Foldable Store this cooler with built-in gel liner in your freezer so you’ll always be ready to go. It fits up to 15 cans; we love it for short trips. PACKIT FREEZABLE ZUMA CAN COOLER, $35 Soft-Sided Throw this over your shoulder—it has plenty of pockets, a removable insert for easy cleaning and a pop-out tray for dry goods. ARCTIC ZONE TITAN DEEP FREEZE COOLER, $63 COOL CONTAINERS Pack and Play Load your picnic basket, beach tote or cooler with these small stars. 1. Hydration Hack At 46 oz, this double walled vacuum insulated Yeti is big enough…

Cats have a reputation for being low-maintenance pets, but they still need age-appropriate care and attention. Beyond the obvious requirements of clean, fresh water and food and clean litter boxes, Zazie Todd, Ph.D., an animal-behavior expert and the award-winning author of Purr: The Science of Making Your Cat Happy, says a cat’s quality of life is vitally important. “Pay attention to your cat’s environment and ensure that they have elevated spaces and hiding places and at least one tall and sturdy scratching post,” she advises. These elements provide a bit of play for cats and help them feel safer and more confident. You’ll also want to make sure that your cat, regardless of their age, gets regular veterinary care. Grant Little, D.V.M., notes that cats are often very subtle about expressing…

Trying to get the perfect doneness? Pull your steak from the grill, skillet or oven before it’s fully done (check our recommended temps below), and it will cook up to its ideal temp as it rests on your cutting board (there will be 5 to 10 degrees of carryover cooking). In 2018, Sesame Place in Pennsylvania became the first theme park to be designated a Certified Autism Center. The park has quiet rooms and noise-canceling headphones for guests with audio sensitivities.…

WHY IT EARNED THE GH SEAL The durable bricks in this 1,000-piece set let kids and adults alike have fun building guided designs or customizing their own worlds. 1 ULTRA-DURABLE AND SAFE PIECES Top-quality craftsmanship goes into the manufacturing of LEGO bricks to ensure that components are easy and safe to play with. During the extensive evaluations, bricks are dropped, heated, crushed and more to ensure that they meet global safety standards. 2 POWERFUL TOOL FOR CREATIVE LEARNING Tests show that the set lets kids use their imaginations and develop problem-solving skills. They can build their own designs or construct a dog, a heart and more by following the instructions. Parents found the guided builds to be simple yet enriching for older kids. 3 CLEAR, HELPFUL INSTRUCTIONS Our pros noted that the included…

MEETING OF THE MINDS Ali and I hung out in her front yard while her son napped. Fun fact: She grew up two towns from where I live! When we decided to spotlight accessibility in this issue, we aspired to foster a sense of kinship and understanding between disabled and nondisabled people. We also had a few specific goals: 1) To represent as broad a spectrum of disability as possible, including both visible and invisible disabilities (page 45); 2) To include a full array of Lab-tested, best-in-class items and solutions, including the GH Institute’s top picks to make any home more accessible (page 77); and 3) To keep the disabled community at the core of our coverage. But we knew it was not enough merely to commit to this plan…

BEAUTY LAB TOP-TESTED BREAKTHROUGH SEAL STAR NEW & HOT BARGAIN BUY TIME-TESTED Brightening Moisturizer Smooth on this bouncy Roc Skincare cream to enliven tired skin with a jolt of vibrance. Its cocktail of antioxidant vitamin C and fruit extracts (watermelon, apple) boosts radiance immediately and over time.  Lab Results: Lab data analysis confirmed that 97% of users showed improved luminosity in one use. GH SEAL STAR ROC SKINCARE MULTI CORREXION REVIVE + GLOW MOISTURIZER, $20, AMAZON Novel Lip Treatment This unique twist-up crayon from Avon isn’t makeup: It houses a clear balm made of a blend of nourishing plant butters, waxes and oils (including refreshing mint).  Lab Results: The formula contains ingredients that help reinforce skin’s barrier and improve elasticity, according to GH Beauty Lab evaluation. “It glides on effortlessly…

BEAUTY LAB TOP-TESTED BREAKTHROUGH SEAL STAR NEW & HOT BARGAIN BUY TIME-TESTED Super Shampoo & Conditioner This plant oil–infused Joico pair excelled across the board, simultaneously strengthening and volumizing. Lab Results: It scored best for thorough cleansing, making hair feel stronger and more manageable, adding fullness and being gentle on color. “My hair is so much healthier after using these,” a tester noted. JOICO INNERJOI STRENGTHEN SHAMPOO ($29) AND CONDITIONER ($31), AMAZON At-Home Haircolor The rare feat of achieving strong gray coverage and fade resistance with a mild formula made this Zotos Professional kit a Beauty Lab test winner. Lab Results: The dye was tops at not irritating, gave the best gray-hair coverage and faded least per digital imaging after a month of Lab-simulated wear. ZOTOS PROFESSIONAL AGEBEAUTIFUL HAIR COLOR…

Volumizing Mascara A few swipes of YSL Beauty’s wand transform even tiny lashes into big, “bold” fringe sans smudging. Lab Results: It scored highest for volumizing, lengthening and being buildable, lending “a dramatic look without being too clumpy,” Butler noted. YSL BEAUTY LASH CLASH EXTREME VOLUME MASCARA, $32, NORDSTROM Excellent Eyeliner The twist-up Mary Kay pencil liner powerfully and seamlessly defines eyes with no irritation. Lab Results: In Lab assessment, it earned perfect scores for having rich color and not aggravating eyes. “It’s soft, and it blends effortlessly,” Wizemann said. MARY KAY WATERPROOF EYELINER, $14, MARYKAY.COM Mild Makeup Remover Beauty Lab test-winning Nuria effectively melted off makeup more gently than any other formula evaluated. Lab Results: A full 100% of users said the cleansing lotion spread smoothly, didn’t irritate skin…

GH Beauty Lab scientists spent nearly a year rigorously evaluating entries to find the top performers. Here are the stunning stats: 5 GH Institute cosmetic chemists and analysts who conducted product and treatment assessments 26 Beauty product categories evaluated 100 Pages of data in the Beauty Awards testing report 808 Beauty products submitted for Awards testing 845 Number of consumers recruited to test products 8,000 Data points reviewed and tallied to identify the winners! Be a product tester: Visit goodhousekeeping.com/go/join to sign up for a GH+ membership and register to become a tester.…

Go Bold in the Bathroom Whether on a statement rug, wallpaper or lighting, striking patterns can bring unexpected layers of texture and interest to a bathroom. For example, “a vintage wool rug elevates the space in a way a simple bath mat can’t, and natural fibers will dry pretty quickly,” says designer Hattie Collins of Hattie Sparks Interiors.…

CLOTHING STEAMER VS. STEAM IRON While both are useful, pick the de-creaser that best matches your clothing type and style. SELECT A STEAMER Lightweight, portable, easy to store and great for travel, a steamer smooths fabrics right on the hanger. Many now have big water tanks and multiple settings for more power. Some steam continuously; others do so when you press a trigger. Pros Great for knits, hard-to-iron jackets and soft casual garments Can freshen home furnishings and save you time when you’re in a hurry Cons May have a small water tank, meaning more frequent refilling Some must be used vertically to prevent leaks Can struggle with creases, pleats and stubborn wrinkles Bottom Line: A steamer is stellar for on-the-go de-wrinkling and giving garments a relaxed look and feel.…

When people realize I’m deaf, they tend to have a lot of questions. Can you drive? (Yes.) Get married? (Yes! What the heck?) Know if a baby is crying? (Yes, thanks to my vibrating wristwatch monitor.) As these questions imply, deafness is understood by most hearing people as a deficit that makes life harder, and when I began losing my hearing as a middle schooler, I agreed. I viewed myself just as everyone around me did — as a defective version of them. Since I had learned to speak, read and write English before I became deaf, the adults around me thought it was unnecessary for me to learn sign language or meet other deaf people, and I felt incredibly isolated. After a few years, I found the Deaf community…

Antihistamines (Allegra, Claritin, Zyrtec) Available as pills, liquids, eye drops and nasal sprays, these meds block histamines, the chemicals that cause sneezing, itching, watery eyes and a runny nose. They can be taken every day as needed. Nasal steroids (Flonase, Nasacort These sprays work by tamping down allergy related inflammation and may even prevent allergies from gearing up. You can use them daily starting two weeks before allergy season begins. Decongestants (Sudafed, Afrin) Meant for quick relief of nasal and sinus congestion, these work by constricting the blood vessels in the nose. Talk to your doctor before using them—skip it if you have a condition such as high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism or heart disease, and discontinue use after three days.…

WHAT IS PBC? Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic autoimmune disease that gradually damages and destroys bile ducts in the liver. Chronic damage causes the organ to become scarred and may ultimately lead to liver failure or liver cancer if untreated. WHO IS AT RISK? Ninety percent of PBC patients are women. While most cases occur in women between 40 and 60, the disease can develop in patients as young as 18 and of any ethnicity, race or sex. WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PBC? The most common symptoms are debilitating itching and fatigue, along with pain in the joints and the upper-right abdomen. As these symptoms are not unique to PBC, there can often be a delay in identifying them as being related to the disease. It’s important to…

1 Box springs are not necessary. The way mattresses are built these days, most don’t require a box spring underneath, and some are not even compatible with one. Instead, opt for a bed base with firm, solid support. 2 Warranties are not guarantees. They protect only against manufacturer defects (which can be difficult to prove) and don’t cover regular wear and tear. As you shop, consider the trial period for any-reason returns. 3 In-home setup is not a given. Many brands ship their models compressed in packages that get dropped off at your door. If you want a team to set up your new mattress and remove your old one, see if that’s an option before you buy.…

COMFORTERS Lightweight and Lofty With a softness you have to feel to believe, Buffy’s comforter uses a fluffy down-alternative fill and a Tencel lyocell outer cover, which is smoother and quieter than cotton. It’s a personal favorite of several of our textiles analysts, who praised its evenly distributed fill. One sleep tester described it as feeling “plump and luxurious without being overly heavy.” BUFFY CLOUD COMFORTER, $195 FOR QUEEN, BUFFY.CO Deluxe Down Coyuchi’s splurge-worthy cover uses top-notch construction with a responsibly sourced 600-fillpower down for warmth without the weight. Its cover is a tightly woven organic cotton fabric to prevent the down from poking out. Reviewers gave it perfect scores for comfort. “It felt warm and cozy, but still very breathable,” said one. COYUCHI THREE SEASON DOWN DUVET INSERT, $598…

Get your own personal assistant. Operate your smart home from this Alexa-enabled digital hub with accessibility features like a screen magnifier that makes navigating the device easier. LAB RESULTS: The voice-controlled Echo Show 8 smart speaker is a Tech Lab favorite; it can tell you the weather or your schedule and provide emergency assistance that can connect you with first responders. AMAZON ECHO SHOW 8, $149, AMAZON Use your voice to control appliances. Super-affordable smart plugs let you operate appliances through your phone or via voice with Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility. LAB RESULTS: These easy-to-install Kasa mini smart plugs allow you to build schedules, set timers and set up Away Mode, which offers you the ability to have lamps turn on and off even when you’re not home. KASA…

Q Are there any downsides to using a bath towel on the beach? —BECKY M. A: Yes; the reality is that a regular bath towel is not a great fit for the beach. While its fluffiness makes it ideal for drying off after a shower, it’s less suitable for stuffing in a beach bag. A beach towel, on the other hand, is designed to be thinner and less plush. That means it folds up smaller for packing, dries faster and doesn’t hold on to as much sand. It also is big enough to accommodate the full length of your body when you’re lounging, and beach towels are available in more fun prints and colors. If you bring a bath towel to the beach, be prepared for it to still be soggy…

If kitty snuggles lead to sneezes, consider making a change in your cat’s food. Purina Pro Plan LiveClear Allergen-Reducing Cat Food has been shown to reduce the major allergen in cat hair and dander by an average of 47% starting in the third week of daily feeding. This life-changing nutrition comes in formulas appropriate for cats at all life stages, from kittens to senior cats, as well as other specialized formulas. All cats produce allergens in their saliva, but Purina Pro Plan LiveClear Allergen-Reducing Cat Food contains a key protein that binds to Fel d1 (what people are often allergic to) and neutralizes it, meaning you’re likely to experience fewer cat allergen sensitivities. Daily feeding of LiveClear food can help reduce the major allergen in cat hair and dander, making…

START HERE Active 25 min. Total 25 min. GOCHUJANG In small bowl, stir together 2 Tbsp gochujang and 3 to 4 Tbsp water until pourable; set aside. ASPARAGUS AND SCALLIONS Heat ½ Tbsp olive oil in large skillet on medium-high. Add 1 lb asparagus (trimmed and cut into 2-in. pieces), 3 scallions (white and light green parts cut into 2-in. pieces; dark green parts saved) and ¼ tsp kosher salt and cook, without stirring, 2 min. Toss and continue cooking, tossing occasionally, until just tender, 2 to 3 min. more; transfer to plate and wipe out skillet. SHRIMP Heat ½ Tbsp oil on medium. Add 1 lb large peeled and deveined shrimp and cook, without stirring, 2 min. Flip and cook 1 min. more. Return asparagus and scallions to skillet…

My son can’t walk or talk and uses an intricate wheelchair with a harness and head prompts to remind him to sit upright. Kids watch his movements and try to understand him. Sometimes they point and ask their parents questions like “Why is he like that?” and “What’s wrong with him?” Being on the receiving end of constant staring is hard and uncomfortable. As a mom of three whose children also have questions about the different people they encounter, I know it can be difficult to respond appropriately. Your instinct may be to say, “That’s not polite!” I get it — we’re all going about our days just trying to get from one place to another. So, what is the right reaction in those moments? How can a parent talk…