your compass in American life
Horti’s tall snake plant (left) and Chinese money plant (right), both in a 6-inch “Horti white pot.” Photo: Connie Park Top pick This user-friendly website offers the most affordable houseplants we tested. Though the plants didn’t always arrive in flawless…
Top pick This nylon handlebar bag balances simplicity with thoughtful features. It has the space to hold the essentials with well-placed pockets for keeping everything organized and accessible while you ride. It’s hard to carry off the bike, though. The…
DARRYL: If the plants could tell you and scream at you, like, “What do I actually need,” light is the first thing. Of course you still have to water, but none of those things can work unless the plant is…
Freezing your Social Security number can help to protect you from identity thieves. Getty Images/CNET Your Social Security number is used to identify you in a variety of ways from filing your tax return, to applying for a job…
If you’ve ever reached into your dryer expecting to pull out a load of downy-soft laundry only to find a pile of stiff, starchy garments, there’s a good chance you’re using too much laundry detergent. Laundry detergent obviously gets dirt…
Rain boots The Crocs Rain Boot is streamlined, easy to clean, and lightweight. It’s mostly positively reviewed on Amazon, but scattered throughout are complaints that the boots are constricting and difficult to put on and take off. My own kids…
Streaming keeps getting more expensive. Between price hikes, new bundles and additional charges (look at you, extra member fees), what used to be a cheaper cable alternative can now easily cost over $100 a month. With platforms like Netflix, Hulu,…
The economic headlines are full of recession indicators, from tariffs and a potential trade war to wild stock market swings. With mortgage rates all over the map, some homebuyers are wondering if there might be a silver lining to a downturn — namely,…
With the most power settings at this price—and the ability to set a precise temperature right from the cooktop—this induction model is a great choice if you want the most control over what you cook. Top pick If cooktop performance…
After years of wearing Birkenstocks, Chef Byron Gomez switched to Cole Haan’s ØriginalGrand Energy Twin Oxfords because they combine the comfort of a sneaker with the sleek look of a dress shoe. Elissa Sanci/NYT Wirecutter While clogs generally reign supreme…