Carol Benton, Contributing Writer - Bob Vila https://www.bobvila.com/authors/carol-benton/ The Dean of Home Renovation & Repair Advice Wed, 19 Feb 2025 15:17:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-bob-vila-icon-2.png?quality=85&w=32 Carol Benton, Contributing Writer - Bob Vila https://www.bobvila.com/authors/carol-benton/ 32 32 231227105 We Tested the Best Upholstery Steam Cleaners for Chemical-Free Sanitizing https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-upholstery-steam-cleaner/ Tue, 27 Apr 2021 13:09:55 +0000 We tested some of the best upholstery steam cleaners for this review to find out which ones could freshen up furniture, clean floors and lift stubborn stains.

The post We Tested the Best Upholstery Steam Cleaners for Chemical-Free Sanitizing appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
Steam cleaners use pressurized steam from heated water to clean both soft and hard surfaces. This method requires zero cleaning solutions and chemicals, making it a preferred cleaning procedure for many health-conscious users, as well as those with sensitivities or allergies. Steam cleaning lifts away dirt and grime from upholstery and other materials while killing germs, bacteria, and pathogens, leaving behind freshened and deodorized surfaces.

To find the best upholstery steam cleaner, we tested a number of popular models that we found through extensive product research and used them to steam furniture, car interiors, throw pillows, and other household surfaces. We also put them through a stain test, evaluating how well each model removed six common household stains. Our top pick was the Kiato handheld steam cleaner thanks to its large amount of steam produced in such a lightweight unit.

In addition to cleaning upholstery, steam cleaners also function well for sanitizing sealed floors, windows, tile, and other indoor and outdoor applications. Read on to learn about the best upholstery steam cleaner for your home and how we tested each model.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Kiato Handheld Steam Cleaner
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bissell Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaner & Sanitizer
  3. BEST FOR CAR UPHOLSTERY: Wagner 925E SteamMachine Elite Portable Steamer
  4. BEST FOR VERSATILITY: Bissell PowerFresh Pet Lift-Off 2-in-1 Steam Mop
  5. BEST CANISTER MODEL: McCulloch MC1375 Canister Steam Cleaner
  6. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner
  7. BEST FOR SPOT CLEANING: Steamfast SF-210 Everyday Steam Cleaner
  8. BEST ACCESSORIES: Costway Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner With Accessories
Woman steam cleaning the arm of a gray recliner
Photo: Katie Barton for Bob Vila

Product Comparison

TypeTank CapacityDimensionsWeight
Kiato Handheld Steam CleanerHandheld450 milliliters (250 milliliters maximum load)7.48 inches high by 5.03 inches wide by 9.84 inches deep4.66 lbs
Bissell Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaner & SanitizerHandheld 6.6 ounces8.5 inches high by 5 inches wide by 9.5 inches deep4 lbs
Wagner 925E SteamMachine Elite Portable SteamerCanister 40 ounces23 inches high by 19.5 inches wide by 23 inches deep8.31 lbs
Bissell PowerFresh Pet Lift-Off 2-in-1 Steam MopHandheld steamer and floor mop13.5 ounces44.7 inches high by 11.14 inches wide by 13.2 inches deep10.6 pounds
McCulloch MC1375 Canister Steam CleanerCanister 48 ounces10.5 inches high by 12.13 inches wide by 15.55 inches deep10.78 pounds
Dupray Neat Steam CleanerCanister 54 ounces9.5 inches high by 10.5 inches wide by 10.5 inches long9 pounds
Steamfast SF-210 Everyday Steam CleanerHandheld 6 ounces8.25 inches high by 5.5 inches wide by 10.5 inches deep2.6 pounds
Costway Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner With AccessoriesCanister steam cleaner and floor mop51 ounces14 inches high by 17 inches wide by 11 inches deep10.8 pounds

Our Top Picks

The following products are some of the best on the market for steam-cleaning upholstered furniture. We tested each, evaluating them for their design, water-tank capacities, power options, accessories, and versatility. These steam cleaners can help keep upholstered furniture fresh and clean.

Best Overall

Kiato Handheld Steam Cleaner

 The Best Upholstery Steam Cleaner Option: Kiato Handheld Steam Cleaner
Photo: amazon.com

What We Like

  • Emits large amounts of steam
  • Lightweight and comfortable to use
  • Push-down steam-release button automatically turns off
  • Removed coffee and wine stains

What We Don’t Like

  • Smaller water tank lasts only 8 minutes
  • Holding the steam-release button is cumbersome for large jobs

Product Specs 

  • Type: Handheld steam cleaner
  • Tank capacity: 450 milliliters (250 milliliters maximum load)
  • Dimensions: 7.48 inches high by 5.03 inches wide by 9.84 inches deep
  • Weight: 4.66 lbs

The Kiato handheld steam cleaner is a 10-in-1 tool designed to tackle hard and soft surfaces, including furniture, car interiors, tile, windows, and carpet. It features a lightweight design and a push-button steam release. It also comes with a 10-piece accessory kit that includes a fabric steamer and a microfiber sleeve to go on top.

This model heats up to 221 degrees Fahrenheit in 2 minutes and 30 seconds. After filling the water tank and securing the lid, you can plug this steamer in and wait for the LED light to go off. The unit is then ready for use. Using the Kiato handheld steamer is as simple as pressing the button to release steam. It automatically turns off when you let go of the button. Although it has a 450-milliliter tank capacity, you will only want to add 250 milliliters at a time.

We were impressed by how much steam the Kiato steam cleaner emitted. We used it to steam a microfiber recliner, clean a mattress, and loosen mineral deposits inside a dishwasher. When we put it up against household stains, it performed well, removing the coffee, dirt, and wine stains. It removed about 70 percent of the tomato sauce and some of the chocolate. Like the rest of the models, it didn’t work on oil.

The Kiato handheld steam cleaner was among the easiest to use, and its small size makes storage simple. It never felt uncomfortable, even when we used it for 15 minutes straight. Since it emits so much steam, it’s ideal for blasting stuck-on debris off hard surfaces.

Get the Kiato upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon.

Best Bang for the Buck

Bissell Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaner & Sanitizer

 The Best Upholstery Steam Cleaner Option: Bissell Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaner & Sanitizer
Photo: bissell.com

What We Like

  • The fabric steamer attachment left furniture looking clean and refreshed
  • 10 accessories add to the product’s suitability for many household chores
  • Easy to empty after use, and its compact size makes it easy to store

What We Don’t Like

  • Curved-front design; tips forward when holding it
  • Wasn’t able to remove chocolate, tomato sauce, or dirt stains

Product Specs 

  • Type: Handheld steam cleaner
  • Tank capacity: 6.6 ounces
  • Dimensions: 8.5 inches high by 5 inches wide by 9.5 inches deep
  • Weight: 4 lbs

The Bissell Steam Shot steam cleaner is an affordable handheld steam cleaner with 10 multisurface tools. The easy-to-attach accessories make it possible to refresh fabric, brush away grime from hard surfaces, clean windows, and scrub dirty grout. It kills up to 99.9 percent of bacteria and germs on hard surfaces.

The Bissell Steam Shot has only one steam setting, which makes it easy to use. Fill the tank with water, secure the lid, and plug it in. The heater warms in 30 seconds, and when the LED light turns off, the steamer is ready to use. It features a steam-release button that powers off when disengaged.

During testing, the Bissell Steam Shot worked well. It emitted enough steam to leave fabric looking refreshed and loosened dirt on hard surfaces for easy cleaning. The one thing we didn’t like was the curved-front design, which caused this model to lean forward slightly when holding it. It felt less stable than models without a curved design.

The Bissell Steam Shot removed wine and coffee stains during our testing. It only removed about 50 percent of the dirt, chocolate, and tomato sauce stains. While it works great for refreshing fabric and cleaning hard surfaces, it’s not our top pick for stain removal.

Get the Bissell Steam Shot upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon.

Best for Car Upholstery

Wagner 925E SteamMachine Elite Portable Steamer

 The Best Upholstery Steam Cleaner Option: Wagner 925E SteamMachine Elite Portable Steamer
Photo: amazon.com

What We Like

  • Performed the best in our stain test, removing dirt, coffee, wine, chocolate, and tomato sauce
  • Long hose, wheeled design, and 20 attachments for easy and versatile use
  • Canister features a built-in compartment for attachment storage, preventing items from getting lost
  • Can use the trigger for steam release, or set it for continuous steam

What We Don’t Like

  • Large tank capacity means a longer wait time for steam, taking up to 9 minutes
  • We experienced some water spitting while steaming, causing excess moisture on the fabric

Product Specs 

  • Type: Canister steam cleaner
  • Tank capacity: 40 ounces
  • Dimensions: 23 inches high by 19.5 inches wide by 23 inches deep
  • Weight: 8.31 lbs

The Wagner SteamMachine Elite steam cleaner features a canister design and 20 attachments. Its large 40-ounce water tank provides up to 40 minutes of continuous steam. This powerful steamer can tackle almost any job, from vehicle carpet and upholstery to dirty barbecue grills.

The 8-foot steam hose and wheeled design make this model easy to maneuver. The canister design also features attachment storage, which helps keep accessories from getting lost.

Getting started is as simple as installing an attachment, filling the water tank, securing the lid, and turning the machine on. After about 9 minutes, it produces large amounts of steam that you can control via a trigger. The trigger has two settings: press release or continuous steam.

The Wagner SteamMachine Elite was one of our favorite models due to its ease of use and efficacy. It performed the best in our stain test, breaking down the wine, coffee, and dirt. It also removed about 90 percent of the tomato sauce and chocolate stains.

This model contains a fabric steamer with a bonnet and a carpet glider. We used both to refresh the fabric interior of a truck. We also tested it on hard surfaces, including a toilet. The steam blasted stuck-on dirt from hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.

Get the Wagner upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best for Versatility

Bissell PowerFresh Pet Lift-Off 2-in-1 Steam Mop

 The Best Upholstery Steam Cleaner Option: Bissell PowerFresh Pet Lift-Off 2-in-1 Steam Mop
Photo: amazon.com

What We Like

  • Multipurpose cleaning tool; comes with 13 accessories and works on a variety of surfaces
  • Kills 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria; great for homes with kids and pets
  • Easy to switch from mopping to the handheld attachments for easy whole-house cleaning

What We Don’t Like

  • Somewhat small tank capacity; needs refilling during larger cleaning jobs
  • Handheld steamer spat water and didn’t remove stains as well as other models

Product Specs 

  • Type: Handheld steamer and floor mop
  • Tank capacity: 13.5 ounces
  • Dimensions: 44.7 inches high by 11.14 inches wide by 13.2 inches deep
  • Weight: 10.6 pounds

This steam-cleaning unit from Bissell is designed with versatility in mind. In its fully assembled form, it functions as a heavy-duty floor mop. Alternatively, you can detach the canister and deploy it along with the extension hose and attachments to steam-clean upholstery, pet beds, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, and a variety of other surfaces.

An included tool bag holds a set of 13 accessories for a broad array of cleaning applications. The included fabric-steamer attachment works especially well with the handheld portion of this steam cleaner for cleansing, deodorizing, and sanitizing upholstery.

Water in the 13.5-ounce tank heats up quickly, producing steam that kills up to 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria. The 25-foot-long power cord facilitates steam cleaning of even the most hard-to-reach places.

For testing, we started by using this steam cleaner as a mop, and it worked well, leaving our floors clean and streak-free. Next, we tested the handheld canister on our stain board using the fabric steamer attachment and dabbing the stain with a microfiber cloth. It tackled the dirt, wine, and coffee stains but wasn’t a match for the chocolate or tomato sauce. The handheld steamer spat water more than other models, preventing the steam from being as powerful or continuous.

Even though this steam mop didn’t perform as well in our stain-removal tests, it did a good job overall. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a versatile steam mop with a lift-off canister. However, folks who want just an upholstery steamer might fare better with a different option.

Get the Bissell PowerFresh upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon, Target, Bissell, or Walmart.

Best Canister Model

McCulloch MC1375 Canister Steam Cleaner

 The Best Upholstery Steam Cleaner Option: McCulloch MC1375 Canister Steam Cleaner
Photo: amazon.com

What We Like

  • Delivers up to 90 minutes of power, which is enough for most upholstery cleaning
  • Variable steam-flow system with an easy-to-control knob; up to 58-psi steam pressure
  • 20 accessories work on a variety of surfaces; great for tough stains or general cleaning
  • Users can control steam via the trigger or lock it in place for continuous steam

What We Don’t Like

  • Water takes time to heat up; can become frustrating when refilling during long cleaning jobs
  • Using the steamer at its highest power results in a lot of moisture on upholstery

Product Specs 

  • Type: Canister steam cleaner
  • Tank capacity: 48 ounces
  • Dimensions: 10.5 inches high by 12.13 inches wide by 15.55 inches deep
  • Weight: 10.78 pounds

Thanks to its canister design, this steamer houses a large-capacity water tank that delivers up to 90 minutes of continuous steam-cleaning power. The tank holds 48 ounces of regular tap water, and it heats to more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit in under 12 minutes.

The on-demand variable steam-flow system allows users to dial in an exact steam flow from low pressure up to 58 pounds per square inch (psi). Accessing hard-to-reach spaces is easy thanks to an 18-foot power cord and a 7-foot steam hose.

With 20 included accessories, this unit can take on a multitude of house-cleaning tasks. In addition to refreshing upholstery, this steamer works on ceramic tile, sealed flooring, grout, and more.

The McCulloch blasted through dirt, coffee, and red wine stains during testing. It also did the best on oil, eliminating about 50 percent of the stain. Since this model doesn’t come with a dedicated fabric steamer attachment, we used the jet nozzle to steam the soiled areas and then dabbed them with a microfiber cloth. Doing so was effective, lifting dirt and leaving the fabric looking refreshed.

The McCulloch came with a bag for its attachments, which helped us keep everything together. Since the canister is on wheels, it was also easy for us to maneuver. We used the jet nozzle to spray around a sink faucet, and it loosened stuck-on dirt and some of the mineral deposits. This model came with many more attachments, including a mophead. It emitted a large amount of steam, making it ideal for household and heavy-duty jobs.

Get the McCulloch upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Heavy-Duty

Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner

 Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner on a white background
Photo: amazon.com

What We Like

  • Compact and modern design stores easily in a small space
  • Delivers an impressive 50 minutes of continuous steam for tackling large jobs
  • Performed well in our stain test, removing dirt, wine, and coffee from microsuede
  • Mop glides smoothly for easy and streak-free floor cleaning

What We Don’t Like

  • Some water spits out before the steam, which can saturate upholstery

Product Specs 

  • Type: Canister steam cleaner
  • Tank capacity: 54 ounces
  • Dimensions: 9.5 inches high by 10.5 inches wide by 10.5 inches long
  • Weight: 9 pounds

When it comes to taking on big cleaning jobs, this large-capacity steam cleaner should do the trick. Thanks to the portable cube-shaped unit that combines an impressive 54-ounce water tank, 16-foot-long power cord, and 6.5-foot-long steam hose, the Dupray steamer is capable of delivering 50 minutes of continuous steam with ample maneuverability to reach furniture and surfaces throughout the home. The wheels on this steam cleaner allow for smooth rolling from room to room, and a retractable handle makes carrying this 9-pound unit a breeze.

Water in the tank heats to 275 degrees Fahrenheit, producing steam that kills 99.9 percent of bacteria, viruses, and pathogens in upholstery, bedding, and other household surfaces.

When we unboxed the Dupray Neat steam cleaner, we were immediately impressed by the quality. The attachments felt well constructed and the fabric steamer’s microfiber bonnet was much thicker than those from other models. We also liked the unique modern aesthetic and the cord storage on the bottom of the cube.

When we put this model to the test, it blasted through dirt, coffee, and wine stains on our microsuede fabric. It did OK on the tomato sauce and chocolate stains, eliminating about 50 percent of the soiled area. We also tested the mop attachment, which glided smoothly across our hardwood floors, picking up dirt and leaving the floors streak-free.

Get the Dupray upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best for Spot Cleaning

Steamfast SF-210 Everyday Steam Cleaner

 The Best Upholstery Steam Cleaner Option: Steamfast SF-210 Everyday Steam Cleaner
Photo: amazon.com

What We Like

  • Compact, lightweight unit is comfortable to use and ideal for cleaning tight spaces
  • Includes 6 attachments that are easy to connect and can tackle most cleaning jobs
  • Budget-friendly price point compared to similar options; a good beginner option

What We Don’t Like

  • Runs for only 8 minutes; not suitable for extended use
  • Was the only steamer unable to remove a dirt stain from our microsuede test fabric

Product Specs 

  • Type: Handheld steam cleaner
  • Tank capacity: 6 ounces
  • Dimensions: 8.25 inches high by 5.5 inches wide by 10.5 inches deep
  • Weight: 2.6 pounds

When those everyday oops moments occur, this convenient steam cleaner makes short work of sanitizing household surfaces, including upholstery. The 6-ounce water tank heats up in just 3 minutes, producing 8 minutes of pressurized steam for removing dirt and grime.

Despite its small size—it weighs just 2.6 pounds—this handheld cleaner is surprisingly versatile. Use one of the six included attachments for cleaning upholstered furniture as well as a wide array of hard surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms. A 12.5-foot-long power cord allows for easy maneuverability, while the 28-inch extension hose offers even greater capacity for reaching out-of-the-way surfaces and overlooked crevices.

While it performed the worst in our stain removal tests, this model is still handy for quick fabric refreshes and sanitizing hard surfaces. The Steamfast steam cleaner was able to remove wine, coffee, and tomato sauce from our test fabric but failed to remove dirt, chocolate, or oil.

This steamer is easy to use. It has only one setting, so after filling it with water, all we had to do was plug it in and wait for it to warm up. In addition to steaming upholstery, we used it to steam inside an oven, and it successfully loosened up most of the stuck-on food. The small size makes it easy to store—great for those short on space.

Get the Steamfast upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best Accessories

Costway Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner With Accessories

 The Best Upholstery Steam Cleaner Option: Costway Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner With Accessories
Photo: amazon.com

What We Like

  • Multipurpose tool that comes with 18 cleaning accessories to tackle most jobs
  • Unit has 2 large wheels and a 79-inch hose, making it easy to maneuver
  • Includes an organized cable-management system to wind around neatly when not in use

What We Don’t Like

  • Lower steam pressure may struggle with more stubborn stains
  • No indicator light to signal when the steam is ready for use

Product Specs 

  • Type: Canister steam cleaner and floor mop
  • Tank capacity: 51 ounces
  • Dimensions: 14 inches high by 17 inches wide by 11 inches deep
  • Weight: 10.8 pounds

This multipurpose steam cleaner includes 18 attachments for taking on a variety of cleaning tasks around the home. When it comes to cleaning upholstery, the steam jet nozzle and nylon brushes are especially helpful. Functional accessories such as a mophead, brass utility brushes, a scrubbing pad, and a squeegee facilitate cleaning and sanitizing not only upholstery, but also sealed floors, bathroom tile, kitchen appliances, and children’s toys.

The 16-foot power cord and 79-inch steam hose, as well as the wheels, a rolling caster, and ergonomically designed curved handle, offer ample maneuverability for reaching numerous surfaces in the home. In addition to removing dirt, grime, spills, and messes, this steam cleaner sanitizes household surfaces. Unseen and undesirable intruders such as germs, bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and bed bugs are no match for the 226 degree Fahrenheit pressurized steam.

The Costway steam cleaner holds 51 ounces of water in its tank, heating it to produce steam in under 10 minutes. It delivers 40 minutes of continuous steam-cleaning time.

Like the other canister models we tested, the Costway steam cleaner produced large amounts of steam and was better able to power through stains than handheld options. It eliminated dirt, coffee, and wine from our test fabric. While it didn’t completely eliminate tomato sauce or chocolate, it visibly reduced the stained areas.

This model comes with many useful accessories, including a mop and carpet glider. We used the carpet glider to refresh fabric seats and carpet in an old truck and tested the mop on tile floors. The attachments were easy to use, and the mop left the floor clean. We also tried out the trigger that locks in place for continuous steam.

Get the Costway upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Upholstery Steam Cleaners

We researched the best upholstery steam cleaners with high customer satisfaction in a variety of categories. After compiling our list, we tested each model. Our tests consisted of using each upholstery steam cleaner on furniture, mattresses, and car upholstery to evaluate the ease of use. We then put all models through a more extensive test, assessing how well they could remove six common stains: dirt, vegetable oil, tomato sauce, red wine, coffee, and chocolate sauce.

We assembled a test board consisting of foam, batting, and microsuede fabric attached to plywood. We added ⅛ teaspoon of each test substance to the board and allowed it to dry for an hour. We then used each steam cleaner to remove the stains. If the steam cleaner came with an upholstery steamer and microfiber bonnet, we used it for stain removal. For models that didn’t come with an upholstery steamer bonnet, we relied on the jet nozzle to steam the stain and then dabbed it with a microfiber cloth. These methods were equally effective.

No steam cleaner was able to remove the oil stain, but all had varying degrees of success with the other substances. The biggest factor in stain removal was the amount of steam the machine emitted.

We also evaluated any extra attachments, how easy it was to empty and store each model, and how effective the steamers were for other household surfaces. We assigned and tracked number values for easy comparison.

What to Consider When Choosing an Upholstery Steam Cleaner

Before purchasing an upholstery steam cleaner, it’s essential to consider what your needs are. Manufacturers offer a wide array of types, sizes, water-tank capacities, attachments, and accessories, each with their own benefits and optimal uses. Ahead, learn about the features that may influence your selection process as you search for the best upholstery steam cleaner to suit your purposes.

Unboxed Bissell steam shot with accessories
Photo: Katie Barton for Bob Vila

Type

Steam cleaners that work well for upholstery materials are versatile and capable of taking on many other cleaning tasks around the house. Depending on the type, steam cleaners tackle dirt, grime, and messes on both soft and hard surfaces, indoors and outdoors. Here’s an overview of the types of steam cleaners available on the market, along with information about how they function for cleaning upholstery.

  • Handheld steam cleaners make upholstery cleaning easy as you simply hold the steamer units adjacent to the upholstered furniture and move them along the surface.
  • Vacuum-type steam cleaners facilitate the cleaning of floors and carpets, but many of them feature reconfiguration capability, breaking down into handheld units that work well for upholstery. Users move the handheld units along the surface of upholstery fabric for cleaning.
  • Vapor steam cleaners utilize steam from water heated to at least 240 to 260 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in a low-moisture vapor that leaves minimal residual dampness. Vapor steam cleaners utilize higher temperatures than many other steam cleaners do.
  • Cylinder steam cleaners (also known as canister steam cleaners) feature steam hoses attached to the rolling cylinders or canisters that hold large-capacity water tanks for extended steam-cleaning time. Attachments for the steam hoses facilitate upholstery cleaning as you move them along the surface.
  • Garment steam cleaners feature handheld nozzles on the ends of steam hoses that attach to water tanks. The steam loosens and lifts dirt, deodorizes, and freshens upholstery fabrics on furniture as well as clothing.

Size and Weight

Consider how you plan on using your steam cleaner to determine the ideal size and weight. Larger and heavier models offer the capacity for heavy-duty cleaning and extensive cleaning sessions, while small and lightweight units offer the advantages of portability and convenience for quick cleanups.

For example, canister models are considerably larger and weigh more than handheld steam cleaners, but they offer the advantage of large-capacity water tanks that deliver continuous steam for anywhere between 30 and 90 minutes. On the other hand, a small handheld steamer weighs much less than a canister or vacuum type, but it holds less water and produces steam for only a few minutes before it requires refilling.

Corded vs. Cordless

Steam cleaners operate on corded electrical power from standard household outlets. After the electrical power source heats the water in the cleaner’s water tank to above 212 degrees Fahrenheit, creating steam, the pressurized steam is forced through a hose or a nozzle, delivering powerful cleaning action to household surfaces.

Some steam cleaners include extra-long power cords for enhanced maneuverability, allowing you to access hard-to-reach places throughout the home for cleaning and sanitizing. Since steam cleaners draw a large amount of electricity, there are currently no cordless options.

Power and Runtime

Battery runtime is associated with the volume of water held in the steam cleaners’ tanks. Larger water tanks in canister models may produce steam for up to 90 minutes of continuous cleaning. Alternatively, the small water tanks in lightweight, handheld steam cleaners produce enough steam for approximately 8 to 10 minutes of runtime. Of course, the tanks may be refilled as often as necessary for continuous cleaning.

Heating time is another feature to consider. Related to the volume capacity of the water tanks and the power of the heating elements, heating times vary from approximately 30 seconds to 12 minutes. A faster heating time means that the water converts to steam more quickly, allowing you to jump right into the task at hand.

Steam Settings

In the process of selecting the best steam cleaner for upholstery, shoppers may also want to consider their needs for a steamer that is capable of accomplishing other cleaning tasks. Many steam cleaners offer versatility via low-, medium-, and high-steam pressure settings. Users can adjust the settings to facilitate cleaning various surfaces and accomplishing either light freshening jobs or the tough removal of stuck-on dirt, grime, and stains.

Cleaning upholstery requires low to medium steam pressure, depending on the type of fabric and the degree of soil. Delicate upholstery fabric should be steam-cleaned on the lowest steam setting. Thicker, more durable fabric can tolerate a medium steam setting, especially if tough stains and stuck-on messes present cleaning challenges. Manufacturers of some steam cleaners recommend their use on leather upholstery, but you’ll want to check manufacturers’ information before using steam cleaners on leather furniture.

Alternatively, you can adjust the steam pressure settings to medium or high for cleaning hard surfaces. High-pressure steam works well on tile, grout, granite, stainless steel, and sealed flooring. Keep in mind that using a high-pressure setting will cause the steam to run out more quickly, resulting in the need to refill the water tank.

Tank Capacity

Every steam cleaner contains a water tank with a heating element that heats the water above 212 degrees Fahrenheit to produce steam. Handheld units include tanks that generally hold about 6 to 8 ounces of water for steam production. These are lightweight and easy to handle, but they produce steam for only about 8 to 10 minutes before the small water tanks run dry. Handheld steam cleaners are ideal for quick touch-ups and brief everyday cleaning chores.

On the other hand, users sometimes need to tackle cleaning jobs that require extended steam- producing runtimes. For these tasks, larger steam cleaners with increased water-tank capacities fill the bill.

Canister or cylinder steam cleaners feature larger water tanks that usually hold about 40 to 54 ounces of water. Heating the larger volumes of water to build up steam, these types of steam cleaners can deliver up to 90 minutes of continuous steam for extended cleaning sessions.

Maneuverability

When steam-cleaning upholstery, you’ll want to maneuver the steam-releasing units over and under the curved surfaces of furniture and into cracks and crevices. For this reason, steam cleaners with long power cords as well as extension hoses with easy-to-hold nozzles make the job easier. Maneuverability is a particularly valuable feature for reaching into a vehicle to clean car interiors, which are susceptible to accumulating dirt and debris.

Some steam cleaners offer power cords up to 18 feet long and steam hoses up to 8 feet long. With these features, you can direct the steam to hard-to-reach places for accurate targeting of dirt and grime.

A canister or a cylinder steam cleaner with a long extension hose allows you to reach into nooks and crannies. Alternatively, a lightweight handheld steamer with a long power cord provides up-close and targeted cleaning power.

Attachments

Many steam cleaners include attachments to facilitate cleaning a variety of objects and materials. Some common attachments include steam hoses, straight nozzles, angled nozzles, metal brushes, nylon brushes, window squeegees, mop pads, and scrapers.

For steam-cleaning upholstery, nylon brushes, steam hoses, and angled nozzles work particularly well, allowing you to maneuver the steam over, under, and around curved surfaces.

Shoppers looking for steam cleaners that can accomplish a range of cleaning jobs beyond sanitizing upholstery will want to take note of what attachments, if any, are included with each available steam cleaner.

FAQs

Q. What surfaces can a steam cleaner be used on?

Steam cleaners can be used on both hard and soft household surfaces, including upholstery, clothing, sealed flooring, ceramic tile, grout, stainless steel, and more.

Q. Do upholstery steam cleaners utilize chemicals?

No. The primary reason for using steam cleaners is that the cleaning action comes from pressurized steam created by heated water, which contains zero cleaning solutions or chemicals.

Q. Should hot or cold water be put in a steam cleaner?

Pour cold water into the tank of the steam cleaner. The heating element will heat the water to produce steam.

Q. Does steam-cleaning kill bugs?

Yes. Steam cleaning kills bed bugs on the surface of mattresses and bedding as well as those embedded ¾ inch deep into the fabric surfaces.

Q. How long should upholstery be steam-cleaned?

Hold the steamer nozzle on the upholstered surface to release the steam, but keep it moving. Don’t hold the nozzle in one place so long that the upholstery becomes damp.

Meet the Tester

Katie Barton has more than 10 years of experience in product writing, has tested dozens of cleaning products, and has authored hundreds of articles for major media outlets. Her cleaning and organizing advice has been featured on a variety of popular home and finance websites. She takes an unbiased approach to product testing, using each product multiple times or for several days to determine efficacy. Her goal is to help readers decide which products are worth their hard-earned money and which fall flat.

Additional research provided by Carol Benton.

The post We Tested the Best Upholstery Steam Cleaners for Chemical-Free Sanitizing appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
157527
After Hours of Crafting, We Have a Clear Favorite Cordless Glue Gun https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-cordless-glue-gun/ Mon, 05 Apr 2021 23:30:29 +0000 https://www.bobvila.com/articles/?p=155386 Hot glue guns are versatile tools for crafting, home improvement, and DIY projects. View recommendations for the best cordless glue gun models here.

The post After Hours of Crafting, We Have a Clear Favorite Cordless Glue Gun appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
Cordless glue guns create quick adhesive bonds between surfaces such as paper, wood, plastic, metal, fabric, and styrofoam, making them convenient tools for arts and crafts, DIY projects, and repairs. But when popular models range from small units priced around $20 to full-size ones that cost over $100, it’s hard to know which option is right for your needs. To help you decide, we put seven highly rated cordless glue guns through a series of six tests to see which performed best. 

Based on over a week’s worth of concentrated testing and around-the-house repairs, we chose the Workpro Cordless Hot Glue Gun as our top pick for its ease of use, ergonomics, and value. This hot glue gun is light and comfortable in the hand and offers a relatively long runtime. Still, several other rechargeable and battery-powered glue guns have unique features that might be better suited to certain users. For more on what we liked and didn’t about each of these handy tools, see ratings and details on the best cordless glue guns below.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Workpro Cordless Hot Glue Gun
    Jump to Review
  2. RUNNER-UP: Surebonder Cordless Hot Glue Gun
    Jump to Review
  3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Aozoy Cordless Hot Melt Glue Gun
    Jump to Review 
  4. BEST DUAL TEMP: Monvict 80/120W Dual Temp Hot Glue Gun
    Jump to Review 
  5. BEST MINI: Ryobi 18V One+ Compact Glue Gun
    Jump to Review 
  6. BEST PEN: Dremel 4V USB Rechargeable Cordless Glue Pen
    Jump to Review
  7. BEST PROFESSIONAL: Ridgid 18V Professional High-Temp Glue Gun
    Jump to Review 
The Best Cordless Glue Guns Ryobi cordless glue gun
Photo: Michelle Larson for Bob Vila

Cordless Glue Guns Comparison Chart

Product NameTypePowerSize
Workpro Cordless Hot Glue Gun High temp2,600mAhMini
Surebonder Cordless Hot Glue Gun High temp60 wattsFull 
Aozoy Cordless Hot Melt Glue Gun High temp2,600mAhMini
Monvict 80/120W Dual Temp Hot Glue GunDual temp80 or 120 wattsFull
Ryobi 18V One+ Compact Glue Gun High temp1,500mAhMini
Dremel 4V USB Rechargeable Cordless Glue Pen High temp1,500mAhPen
Ridgid 18V Professional High-Temp Glue Gun High temp60 wattsFull

Our Top Picks

The wireless glue guns listed here can be used for a variety of purposes. They offer reliable performance as well as optimal charging times and runtimes.

Best Overall

Workpro Cordless Hot Glue Gun

 The Best Cordless Glue Gun Option Workpro Cordless Hot Glue Gun
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Charges in 2 hours, heats in 2 minutes
  • Lightweight and comfortable in hand
  • LED lights increase ease of use

Cons

  • Tip damages styrofoam if touched to it
  • Only available in pink

Specs

  • Type: High temp
  • Power: 2,600mAh
  • Size: Mini

Our Ratings: Temperature Control 4.8/5; Ease of Use 5/5; Ergonomics 5/5; Performance 4.7/5; Value 5/5

Designed for efficiency and ease of use, the Workpro mini hot glue gun packs a long runtime and convenient yet simple features into a small package. This rechargeable glue gun is powered by a 2,600mAh lithium-ion battery, which lasted about 15 minutes during our tests. While that’s less than the 30 minutes Workpro claims, we found it charges quite a bit faster than their estimates. In our tests, it repeatedly got to full power in just over 2 hours with the included AC/USB instead of the 2.5 to 3.5 hours listed in the user manual. This portable hot glue gun is one of the few models we tested that has lights that signal when it’s fully charged as well as when it’s ready to use. 

This model’s heat-up time is only 2 minutes, and the glue gun automatically shuts off after 20 minutes of inactivity. It comes with 20 glue sticks, its nozzle end has a sturdy flip-out stand, and its lightweight design is comfortable for both adults and kids. As a high-temp glue gun, it does create a little damage on styrofoam if you hold the tip directly against it—but for all other materials, performance was excellent and annoying glue strings were minimal.

What our tester says: “To us, this was perhaps the most quintessential cordless glue gun of all the models we tested. It’s simple and easy to use, and the LED lights that signify when it’s charged and hot are more helpful than you might think. We found ourselves reaching for this one after testing was over because we know it won’t drip, and it will turn itself off if we forget to.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Workpro cordless glue gun at Amazon or Workpro.

Runner-up

Surebonder Cordless Hot Glue Gun

 The Best Cordless Glue Gun Option: Surebonder Cordless Hot Glue Gun
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Integrated glue pad catches wayward drips
  • Output remains consistent during use
  • Cord plugs into gun for extended runtime 

Cons

  • Can’t use stand while cord is plugged in
  • Fits base too tightly to remove with one hand

Specs

  • Type: High temp
  • Power: 60 watts
  • Size: Full

Our Ratings: Temperature Control 5/5; Ease of Use 4.5/5; Ergonomics 5/5; Performance 4.5/5; Value 5/5 

The Surebonder full-size cordless hot glue gun offers both corded and cordless operation with 60 watts of power, a built-in drip pad, and side fins that prevent glue backflow when the unit is on its side. Its heated docking station heats the gun in about 5 minutes, but you’ll need to work quickly as you only have about 2 minutes of use before it needs reheating again. You can keep the cord plugged in for unlimited runtime if you’re doing more than a quick task. However, you won’t be able to use the stand with its drip pad when the cord is plugged in, which is a bummer because the stand with the silicone drip pad is one of the tool’s best features. Still, the unit’s side fins mean it won’t drip even when it’s not upright in its stand. 

This pick has a simple on/off switch, an insulated nozzle to avoid burned fingers, and an ergonomic grip and trigger for easy operation. During our tests, the gun maintained consistent heat, allowing a nice flow of glue. It was comfortable to hold, and the LED light indicator at the top of the tool let us know when the gun was on. It’s a great option for kids and adults, though you do have to tug pretty firmly to remove it from its stand. Still, since it’s so well insulated, there’s not much risk that you or your little ones will get burnt.

Get the Surebonder cordless glue gun at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Surebonder.

Best Bang for the Buck

Aozoy Cordless Hot Melt Glue Gun

 The Best Cordless Glue Gun Option Aozoy Cordless Hot Melt Glue Gun
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Unmatched runtime for a rechargeable model
  • Unlikely to tip; well-stabilized thanks to integrated stand 
  • Compact, lightweight, and portable

Cons

  • Comes with a USB cord but no plug
  • Tip gets too hot for delicate materials

Specs

  • Type: High temp
  • Power: 2,600mAh
  • Size: Mini

Our Ratings: Temperature Control 4.5/5; Ease of Use 5/5; Ergonomics 5/5; Performance 4.8/5; Value 5/5 

This budget-friendly cordless mini gun from Aozoy features a drip-free nozzle and includes silicone protectors to help protect your fingertips from burns. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery takes a couple of hours to charge, but after preheating for only about 2 minutes, it was ready to use and lasted a mind-blowing 90 minutes. It has an on/off switch that extends runtime even longer and a light that tells you if it’s on, though there’s no signal to tell you when it’s hot.

For safety, the gun’s built-in balance stand keeps it upright when placed on a work surface. Not only is the stand stable and reliable, but so is this gun’s performance. The glue comes out evenly and with minimal strings, and the trigger is comfortable and easy to squeeze. Since this is a high-temp gun, the tip gets a little too hot for direct contact with styrofoam and other delicate materials. However, it is a very good hot glue gun for the price, and it even comes with a generous 30 hot glue sticks that will be more than enough to get you started crafting or performing small home repairs. The only thing it doesn’t have is a wall plug for the included USB cord, though most of us own several of those already.  

What our tester says: “This is another simple glue gun we tend to reach for when we need this type of tool. It absolutely crushed the competition in terms of run time, and they sent us so many glue sticks that it’ll be many months before we need to order more.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Aozoy cordless glue gun at Amazon.

Best Dual Temp

Monvict 80/120W Dual Temp Hot Glue Gun

 The Best Cordless Glue Gun Option: Monvict 80/120W Dual Temp Hot Glue Gun
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Offers cordless and corded operation
  • Glue distribution is incredibly even
  • High and low settings increase functionality

Cons

  • Short runtime when used without cord
  • Relatively easy to tip over

Specs

  • Type: Dual temp 
  • Power: 80 or 120 watts
  • Size: Full

Our Ratings: Temperature Control 4.3/5; Ease of Use 4/5; Ergonomics 4.5/5; Performance 4.3/5; Value 4.3/5 

This full-size glue gun from Monvict delivers dual power for delicate and heavy-duty jobs. It functions as both a corded and cordless tool, so you can simply plug it in to preheat and then disconnect the power cord to move freely. After only a few minutes of charging, it can deliver melted glue from one of the 12 included glue gun sticks for up to 5 minutes. If you need more time to complete your project, you can quickly recharge it or keep it plugged in for continuous use. 

We love that this dual-power model allows users to switch between 80- and 120-watt power to accommodate a range of materials. It also comes with a set of silicone finger protectors and an integrated stand-up base. As a relatively large glue gun, however, it’s somewhat easy to tip over. At first, we also found it odd that this hot glue pistol must be set to low or high for the unit to charge. We thought our gun wasn’t working since we kept trying to charge it while it was off. Once we started thinking of it as preheating rather than charging, it made more sense. Just be aware that the red and yellow indicator lights won’t work unless the unit is plugged in. 

Get the Monvict cordless glue gun at Amazon

Best Mini

Ryobi 18V One+ Compact Glue Gun

 The Best Cordless Glue Gun Option Ryobi 18V One+ Compact Glue Gun
Photo: The Home Depot

What We Like

  • Compatible with Ryobi’s line of 18V tools
  • Charging base and drip tray are sturdy, effective 
  • Battery lasts 2 hours and has power indicator

Cons

  • No indicator light when ready to use
  • Drips if left on in charging base

Specs

  • Type: High temp
  • Power: 1,500mAh
  • Size: Mini

Our Ratings: Temperature Control 5/5; Ease of Use 4/5; Ergonomics 4/5; Performance 4.8/5; Value 4.3/5

The Ryobi One+ battery-operated glue gun stands out for its unique design, which is compatible with Ryobi’s lineup of 18-volt tools. As is relatively standard, the high-temp gun heats in just 3 minutes and offers a 5-minute runtime per charge. What makes it different is the stand, which connects directly to an 18-volt battery and provides the power to heat the compact and lightweight gun for use. Once the glue gun gets too cool to melt the glue stick, you simply place it back on the stand for another few minutes to get it hot again. When we first started testing it, the setup seemed like overkill for such a simple device, but after a week of use, the convenience won us over.

The battery that attaches to the stand has enough power for about 2 hours of continuous heat, and its four-bar power indicator shows how much battery life remains. To extend runtime, you can turn the stand (as well as the glue gun) off. If you leave the glue gun on while it’s in the stand, it will continue to drip as it heats. We let ours drip for the full 2 hours, and the integrated silicone drip pad was large enough to catch each and every drop. If you need long-lasting cordless operation, this is an excellent tool—especially if you already own other 18-volt Ryobi tools, as this would add another compatible battery.

Get the Ryobi cordless glue gun at The Home Depot or Amazon.

Best Pen

Dremel 4V USB Rechargeable Cordless Glue Pen

 Dremel 4V USB Rechargeable Cordless Glue Pen with charger on a white background
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Automatically shuts off after 10 minutes of inactivity
  • Heats in 15 seconds, light indicates when ready
  • Easy to be precise in application

Cons

  • Takes a little practice to get used to
  • Drips a bit and has no drip tray

Specs

  • Type: High temp
  • Power: 1,500mAh
  • Size: Pen

Our Ratings: Temperature Control 5/5; Ease of Use 4.5/5; Ergonomics 4.8/5; Performance 4.8/5; Value 4.5/5 

You likely know the name Dremel, but you may not know they’re in the glue gun game. Like much of the brand’s lineup, this tool proved powerful and effective in our tests. While charging takes almost 4 hours, the glue pen can run for 30 minutes of continuous use. It also features an auto-shutoff function that turns it off after 10 minutes of inactivity. The unit has a large LED light at its base that blinks as it heats, which only takes 15 seconds, and then turns solid to show it’s ready.

The ergonomic design of this glue gun allows you to hold it like a pen, though it took us a few attempts to learn how much pressure to apply to avoid squeezing out big globs of glue. Once we figured out how we liked to position its large trigger (which wasn’t universal among our testers), we found the pen offered more precision than other models for creating shapes on cardboard and glass and attaching foliage to a styrofoam wreath. This is a high-temp glue gun, however, so the hot tip can damage sensitive materials, making it better for heavier-duty applications. It also leaks a bit when not in use and does not come with a drip tray.

Get the Dremel cordless glue gun at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Dremel.

Best Professional

Ridgid 18V Professional High-Temp Glue Gun

Photo: The Home Depot

What We Like

  • Comes with 3 interchangeable tips
  • Has 3 temperature settings: low, medium, and high
  • 2-hour runtime on low, 1-hour on high

Cons

  • Too large and heavy for small hands
  • Too expensive for only occasional use

Specs

  • Type: High temp
  • Power: 60 watts
  • Size: Full

Our Ratings: Temperature Control 5/5; Ease of Use 4.8/5; Ergonomics 4/5; Performance 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5 

Unlike some glue guns near the top of our list, this Ridgid hot glue gun is more of a professional, heavy-duty tool than an around-the-house, occasional-use appliance. Engineered for comfort and precision, this glue gun features an ergonomic trigger, hex grip, and three interchangeable nozzles (standard, spreader, precision). Its powerful 18-volt battery connects directly to the glue gun’s base to provide a reliable 2 hours of runtime on low and 1 hour on high. While such an extended runtime is excellent for big projects, having to connect the battery to the glue gun does increase its weight (probably to the point that it’s too much for young children). 

In addition to feeling more like a handheld drill than a portable crafting tool, this full-size glue gun has a stroke adjustment knob for precise glue dispensing and an LED light for increased visibility. It has three heat settings: low for heat-sensitive materials, medium for general and automotive applications, and high for heavy-duty construction. It heats up in just 90 seconds, and its battery is compatible with other Ridgid 18-volt tools and chargers. 

What our tester says: “Like the Ryobi we tested, this glue gun seemed like a bit much at first, but after a week, we really came to love it. Because it feels and works more like a well-made tool, it’s something we know we’ll be able to use year after year. This is the pick for anyone needing a professional-grade glue gun.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Ridgid cordless glue gun at The Home Depot.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Cordless Glue Guns

The first step in testing glue guns is to charge them, so we plugged them into various outlets around our office and measured how long it took for them to go from zero to full. We then used these handy hot glue guns to make nonslip wooden hangers, add decorative shapes to cardboard and glass jars, and apply lightweight and heavy-duty foliage to styrofoam wreaths. We continued testing the guns outdoors and around the house, reattaching a tape-on window deflector to our Jeep, adding beads to DIY ornaments, and returning a hat to a small wooden soldier. 

We measured how easy and comfortable the glue guns were to use, how long they lasted before they needed recharging, and how well they performed without making a mess. We then rated them based on these test results and assigned them awards if we found them worthy.

Testing Stats
Products tested 7
Time spent testing Over a week
Tests performed6
Price range$20 to $120

Our Ratings: Cordless Glue Guns

What to Consider When Choosing a Cordless Glue Gun

When shopping for a cordless hot glue gun, consumers will want to look for one with sufficient power, smooth and neat glue distribution, minimal charging time, and optimal runtime. With mini and full-size units available, size is also an important factor, as is whether these tools have ergonomic designs and balanced, built-in bases. 

The following sections break down some of the essential considerations for selecting a battery-powered hot glue gun.

Intended Use

Hot glue from a glue gun can bond with numerous surfaces, including paper, wood, cardboard, plastics, ceramics, canvas, and metal. Hot glue is versatile and dries quickly, making it convenient for crafts, home repairs, and DIY projects. 

Before selecting a cordless glue gun, consider how you intend to use it. Full-size high-temperature cordless glue guns work well for heavy-duty repairs and large creative projects. For DIY projects involving lightweight materials, such as gluing trim on throw pillows decorated with fabric paint, a small low-temp hot glue gun should suffice. 

Type

Hot glue guns with different glue-melting temperatures meet the varying needs of DIY enthusiasts and crafters. Some glue guns have dual-temperature settings to regulate high and low melting temperatures. 

High-temperature glue guns function well when the job calls for glue that adheres quickly to surfaces and forms a strong bond on paper, cardboard, wood, thick fabric, metal, glass, ceramic, and plastic surfaces. Additionally, high-temperature glue remains in liquid form longer, so you can reposition items before they’re fully set. However, working with high-temperature glue guns can lead to burned fingers if you aren’t careful or wearing silicone finger protectors.

Low-temperature glue guns aren’t as hazardous, making them safe even for children’s craft projects. When working with tiny objects, paper, thin fabric, or porous materials, crafters often prefer low-temperature glue guns, which are ideal for scrapbooking, photo albums, and home decor projects.

Size

Cordless glue guns are available in full-size and mini varieties. Mini versions, which measure approximately 5 to 6 inches long, are useful for repairing electronic devices and crafting with small objects and lightweight materials. Full-size hot glue guns measure about 8 to 10 inches in length and height, and they work well for heavy-duty repairs or large projects rather than detailed work. 

Power 

There are essentially two types of cordless glue guns: those that operate via rechargeable batteries and those that preheat the glue via electrical power. 

Battery-powered glue guns rely on power from rechargeable batteries, which are often lithium-ion. The power from lithium-ion batteries is measured in mAh. A battery rated 1,500mAh to 2,600mAh provides ample power for most users. 

Other cordless glue guns must be plugged into a wall outlet or USB plug to preheat before unplugging them for cordless functionality. Residual heat and pressure maintain the flow of hot glue for 5 to 90 minutes of use. 

Charging and Runtime

Some cordless hot glue guns preheat and melt glue via USB cords or standard power outlets, and others charge the gun’s batteries using chargers similar to those of other battery-powered tools. 

Charging times for both types of cordless glue guns can vary from 1 to 4 hours, and runtimes for the models we tested range from 5 minutes to 2 hours. For the most convenience, look for glue guns that charge quickly and run for a long time.

Tips

Keep the following tips in mind to ensure safety and convenience when using a cordless glue gun:

  • Charge the battery completely to gain the longest runtime.
  • Occasionally let the battery run down and then recharge it fully.
  • Let the glue gun preheat completely before use.
  • Never touch the hot melted glue or the glue gun’s hot nozzle.
  • Wear silicone finger protectors to avoid burning fingertips.
  • Hold the glue gun close to surfaces and use only a small amount of glue. 
  • After squeezing the trigger to release the hot glue, release it and pull the nozzle sideways to disengage it from the surface.

Additional Features

Many cordless glue guns include safety features to prevent accidental burns from touching hot melted glue and hot nozzles. Some have an automatic shutoff feature that turns the unit off after a certain amount of inactivity. Others have visible on/off switches that help prevent accidents or come with silicone finger protectors. Some cordless glue guns even have LED indicator lights to warn users when the machine is active and hot. 

Other features you may want to look for in a cordless glue gun are built-in stands that prevent the tool from toppling over and a supply of glue sticks to get you started.

FAQs

Cordless glue guns allow DIYers and crafters to experience freedom of movement while working on projects. Even after the reviews and details above, you may still have questions about how to use a hot glue gun. Keep reading for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about glue guns.

Q. Is hot glue permanent? 

Hot glue is relatively permanent. The melted glue that squeezes from the glue gun cools and hardens to form a secure bond. Still, there are a few effective ways to remove hot glue, such as freezing it so you can peel it off or applying isopropyl alcohol to dissolve it. You can also try using a heat gun to soften hot glue for removal, but heat should be applied very briefly and while wearing proper protective gear to avoid getting burned.

Q. What will hot glue not stick to?

Hot glue does not stick well to smooth, nonporous surfaces like glass and some plastics, especially if the surface has an oily finish. Super glue may be a better pick for projects where hot glue isn’t effective. 

Q. How long does a cordless glue gun last? 

The answer depends on how often the glue gun is used. With average use and care, it should last from 5 to 10 years. The lithium-ion battery in a cordless glue gun should last 3 to 5 years, or 300 to 500 full charges.

Q. What are the best cordless glue guns?

Some of the most popular brands of cordless glue guns are Surebonder and Ryobi, which are highly reputable manufacturers that provide reliable options for most shoppers.

Q. How long can a cordless glue gun last on a single charge?

This depends on the specific glue gun. Most cordless models can last anywhere from 5 minutes to several hours before needing to be recharged. 

Q. How many watts is best for a glue gun?

The models we tested range from 60 watts to 120 watts, which is a typical range for hot glue guns. 

Q. Which is better: a hot or cold glue gun?

Cold (low-temperature) glue guns are better for heat-sensitive materials and reduce the risk of burns, whereas hot glue guns offer more uses but could burn your fingers and damage certain materials. Dual-temperature glue guns like the Monvict 80/120W Dual Temp Hot Glue Gun are nice because they offer both hot and cold functionality. 

Q. Is it worth it to buy a glue gun?

Hot glue guns can cost as little as $20 and are useful in a wide range of DIY projects, repairs, and crafts, so yes, it is worth buying a glue gun—that is, unless you’re looking to use one to glue a puzzle. In that case, you’ll need a completely different type of glue for that. 

Meet the Tester

As the daughter of a DIY dad and a multi-talented seamstress and crafting mom, Michelle Larson has had her hands on many a hot glue gun over the years. Because she’d rather spend a little more upfront than buy a tool or appliance twice, she strongly believes in the power of hands-on testing or finding quality items that are meant to last.

Additional research provided by Carol Benton and Debbie Wolfe.

The post After Hours of Crafting, We Have a Clear Favorite Cordless Glue Gun appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
155386
The 10 Best Ornament Storage Options to Protect and Organize Your Holiday Baubles – Editor Approved https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-ornament-storage/ Tue, 05 Jan 2021 13:16:47 +0000 https://www.bobvila.com/articles/?p=141353 Check out our recommendations for the best ornament storage to keep your treasures looking like new until next year.

The post The 10 Best Ornament Storage Options to Protect and Organize Your Holiday Baubles – Editor Approved appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
At the end of the holiday season, rather than pile everything back into the same decades-old cardboard box, consider using an ornament storage container. The right storage makes the less-than-exciting task of organizing ornaments a whole lot easier.

“Ideally, beautiful, memorable, and delicate Christmas ornaments should be stored in a divided ornament box for the best protection,” says certified professional organizer Kristen Fisher, CEO of Imagine Home Organization in Florida. “The separate compartments not only keep ornaments from getting tangled, they make it faster to put up and put away ornaments because you don’t need to individually wrap each one.”

Available in a variety of materials, holiday ornament storage boxes provide both protection and convenience. Divided sections and removable trays keep Christmas ornaments separated, cushioned, and protected from damage. Our favorite is the 612 Vermont Christmas Ornament Storage Box for its portability and easy-to-remove trays, but that isn’t the only one worth a look.

Keep reading to find some of the best ornament storage for housing precious keepsakes until next Christmas.

  1. BEST OVERALL: 612 Vermont Christmas Ornament Storage Box
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Wayfair Basics Ornament Storage
  3. UPGRADE PICK: TreeKeeper Adjustable Telescoping Ornament Storage
  4. BEST STORAGE CUBE: Handy Laundry Christmas Ornament Storage
  5. BEST CLEAR STORAGE: Simplify Ornament Storage Organizer
  6. BEST STACKABLE STORAGE: Iris USA Holiday Ornament Wing-Lid Storage Box
  7. BEST UNDERBED STORAGE: Honey-Can-Do 40-Ornament Storage Box
  8. BEST WITH DRAWERS: Balsam Hill Deluxe Rolling Ornament Chest
  9. BEST WATER-RESISTANT: Sterilite Christmas Ornament Storage Case
  10. MOST VERSATILE: Zober Rigid 2-in-1 Christmas Ornament Storage Box
The Sterilite Christmas Ornament Storage Case on the floor next to a Christmas tree with its lid off to show red and gold ornaments.
Photo: amazon.com

MaterialCapacityDimensions(Inches in Height, Width, and Depth)
612 Vermont Christmas Ornament Storage BoxCardboard with nonwoven material lining60 ornaments13.125 x 16.25 x 10
Wayfair Basics Ornament StoragePolypropylene112 ornaments11.81 x 20.67 x 11.81
TreeKeeper Adjustable Telescoping Ornament StorageMetal, plastic, acid-free fabric120 ornaments26 to 46 x 25 x 20
Handy Laundry Christmas Ornament Storage Fabric and cardboard64 ornaments13 x 13 x 13
Simplify Ornament Storage OrganizerPlastic112 ornaments11.81 x 20.67 x 11.81
Iris USA Holiday Ornament Wing-Lid Storage BoxPlastic75 ornaments13.81 x 18.31 x 19.31
Honey-Can-Do 40-Ornament Storage BoxFabric40 ornaments5 x 17.5 x 30
Balsam Hill Deluxe Rolling Ornament ChestSteel, polyester, and acid-free fabric120 ornaments39 x 26.5 x 16.5
Sterilite Christmas Ornament Storage CasePlastic20 ornaments4 x 17.38 x 21.63
Zober Rigid 2-in-1 Christmas Ornament Storage BoxPolyester73 ornaments18 x 27.95 x 12.6

Our Top Picks

Whether shoppers want to store decorations in the attic, basement, shed, or under the bed, they’re likely to discover their ideal solution among our top picks for some of the best ornament storage options for the post-holiday season.

Best Overall

612 Vermont Christmas Ornament Storage Box

 The 612 Vermont Christmas Ornament Storage Box with its lid slightly askew to reveal a set of stored ornaments.
Photo: Amazon


Product Specs

  • Material: Cardboard with nonwoven material lining
  • Capacity: 60 ornaments
  • Dimensions: 13.125 inches tall by 16.25 inches wide by 10 inches deep

What We Like

  • Made from acid-free materials to prevent discoloration
  • Removable dividers accommodate a range of ornaments 
  • Removable trays have handles

What We Don’t Like

  • Cardboard construction is not water-resistant

For heirloom ornaments, sentimental favorites, or expensive pieces that may become heirlooms over the years, this ornament storage solution from 612 Vermont offers protection as well as organization and storage. Made from completely acid-free materials, it protects ornaments from fading, discoloration, and damage.

The bin is 13.125 inches tall by 16.25 inches wide by 10 inches deep, and it holds up to 60 ornaments that are 3 inches in diameter or less. Collapsible dividers sit in four removable trays. For large or odd-shaped ornaments, users may adjust the space by removing one or two dividers.

Constructed from durable cardboard and lined with a nonwoven material, this sturdy ornament box features exterior braided handles and a highly visible identification tag.

Get the 612 Vermont ornament storage at Amazon, Walmart, or 612 Vermont

Best Bang for the Buck

Wayfair Basics Ornament Storage

 The Wayfair Basics Ornament Storage box on a carpeted floor next to a Christmas tree and full of ornaments.
Photo: Wayfair


Product Specs

  • Material: Polypropylene
  • Capacity: 112 ornaments
  • Dimensions: 11.81 inches tall by 20.67 inches wide by 11.81 inches deep

What We Like

  • Outer material is moisture-resistant
  • Features a festive decorative pattern
  • Includes carrying handles for better portability
  • Fits up to 112 small ornaments

What We Don’t Like

  • Flexible sides make it unstackable 

Wayfair’s ornament storage box offers a no-frills affordable choice for tucking away festive baubles and tree trinkets. The flexible rectangular storage box is constructed of lightweight but stiff, moisture-resistant polypropylene designed to keep its shape.

This roomy storage box is 11.81 inches tall by 20.67 inches wide by 11.81 inches deep, and it holds up to 112 ornaments within the included cardboard dividers. The storage box is well-suited for small ornaments; each space holds an ornament up to 2.25 inches in diameter, though users can remove divider panels to accommodate some larger pieces. A zippered lid and two carrying handles help keep ornaments in place and make the bag easy to move. Decorated in a cheery polka-dot pattern, the bag’s exterior adds a festive touch to holiday storage.

Get the Wayfair Basics ornament storage at Wayfair.

Best Upgrade

TreeKeeper Adjustable Telescoping Ornament Storage

 The TreeKeeper Adjustable Telescoping Ornament Storage on a white background and full of ornaments.
Photo: Amazon


Product Specs

  • Material: Metal, plastic, and acid-free fabric
  • Capacity: 120 ornaments
  • Dimensions: 26 to 46 inches tall by 25 inches wide by 20 inches deep

What We Like

  • Telescoping feature makes it easier to access ornaments
  • Acid-free fabric in trays prevents ornament discoloration 
  • Outside cover is made from water-resistant fabric 

What We Don’t Like

  • More expensive than many ornament storage options

For a more substantial storage option, TreeKeeper’s adjustable telescoping ornament storage ranks as a top pick. Instead of a simple box with dividers, this ornament storage container features five removable trays on an adjustable, wheeled metal frame. The entire unit is 25 inches wide by 20 inches deep and extends from 26 to 46 inches tall.

Five trays move apart or come completely off the frame to allow access to each tier. Lined with an acid-free velour lining, each tray features adjustable dividers to protect delicate ornaments of almost any size. Since these fabric trays hang from a metal frame, they naturally provide pressure-free protection. A tightly woven poly-blend fabric cover adds an extra layer of protection. With room for up to 120 ornaments, this ornament storage system is a large-capacity upgrade pick for folks with loads of cherished seasonal baubles.

Get the TreeKeeper ornament storage at Amazon, Walmart, Joann, or TreeKeeper

Best Storage Cube

Handy Laundry Christmas Ornament Storage

 The Handy Laundry Christmas Ornament Storage on a white background with its cover partially open to reveal stored ornaments.
Photo: Amazon


Product Specs 

  • Material: Fabric and cardboard
  • Capacity: 64 ornaments
  • Dimensions: 13 inches tall by 13 inches wide by 13 inches deep

What We Like

  • Zippered lid and carrying handles for portability
  • Once emptied, it can collapse flat for storage 
  • Affordable and modular

What We Don’t Like

  • Lacks removable trays

Handy Laundry’s compact storage cube neatly organizes up to 64 ornaments in three layers of divided spaces. With its festive red-and-green exterior, this cube can be spotted immediately in an attic or basement. Exterior dimensions are 12 inches tall by 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep. Removable interior cardboard dividers accommodate larger ornaments or odd-shaped decorations.

A durable fabric box, it zips closed to protect seasonal decorative items from dirt and dust. Once users remove the ornaments for tree trimming, the entire box collapses flat to be tucked away under a bed until the holidays are over. Two sturdy handles on either side of the box provide easy transport. A front label pocket makes it easy to identify the contents of the box from year to year.

Get the Handy Laundry ornament storage at Amazon.

Best Clear Storage

Simplify Ornament Storage Organizer

 The Simplify Ornament Storage Organizer on a white background with its cover rolled back to reveal many stored ornaments.
Photo: Amazon


Product Specs 

  • Material: Plastic
  • Capacity: 112 ornaments
  • Dimensions: 11.81 inches tall by 20.67 inches wide by 11.81 inches deep

What We Like

  • Semitransparent on all sides
  • Holds up to 112 ornaments in 1 box
  • Zipper closure for secure storage

What We Don’t Like

  • Small divider spaces

Clear storage boxes make it easy to see the contents inside, which is ideal for those with crowded closets or storage rooms. The Simplify ornament storage organizer is clear on all sides, so folks can view the outer layer of ornaments inside. Made of flexible plastic, it’s semitransparent, which makes it see through while providing some protection from light.

This storage box is on the large side at about 12 inches tall by 21 inches wide by 12 inches deep. It can hold up to 112 ornaments that are 2.25 inches in diameter within its included cardboard dividers. A zippered top helps keep the ornaments safely in place, while carrying handles add to convenience.

Get the Simplify ornament storage at Amazon, Lowe’s, Walmart, or Target

Best Stackable Storage

Iris USA Holiday Ornament Wing-Lid Storage Box

 Two of the Iris USA Holiday Ornament Wing-Lid Storage Box on a white background and full of red and gold ornaments.
Photo: Amazon


Product Specs 

  • Material: Plastic
  • Capacity: 75 ornaments
  • Dimensions: 13.81 inches tall by 18.31 inches wide by 19.31 inches deep

What We Like

  • Hard plastic, stackable construction
  • Includes 2 boxes that each hold 75 ornaments
  • Hinged lid stays connected to box 

What We Don’t Like

  • Some users report broken boxes or missing dividers

Take advantage of vertical storage space with this two-pack set of Iris USA storage boxes. Unlike some flimsier ornament storage boxes, these are made of a sturdy, hard plastic so they are safe to stack. The boxy design, top exterior lip, and hinged plastic lid provide a stable stacking surface. Since the lid is hinged, it is very easy to swing open the top and access the contents.

Each bin is 13.81 inches tall by 18.31 inches wide by 19.31 inches deep and includes cardboard ornament dividers to hold up to 75 Christmas ornaments that are 3.5 inches in diameter. The dividers are removable for those who want to use the product as a regular storage tote.

Get the Iris USA ornament storage at Amazon, Walmart, or Target

Best Underbed Storage

Honey-Can-Do 40-Ornament Storage Box

 The Honey-Can-Do 40-Ornament Storage Box on a white background.
Photo: Amazon


Product Specs

  • Material: Fabric
  • Capacity: 40 ornaments
  • Dimensions: 5 inches tall by 17.5 inches wide by 30 inches deep

What We Like

  • Short height allows it to fit in small spaces
  • Cardboard dividers are removable
  • Decorative red-and-green design

What We Don’t Like

  • Does not zipper or velcro shut

Folks with limited closet storage space can make good use of that under-the-bed area thanks to this Honey-Can-Do ornament storage box. Made of nylon polyester, it offers individual compartments for up to 40 ornaments, yet its design allows for single-layer storage. This makes the box shallow enough to fit in the fairly tight spot beneath a bed. Its dimensions are 5 inches tall by 17.5 inches wide by 30 inches deep, and users can reconfigure the compartments for larger ornaments by simply removing unneeded dividers.

With its vibrant red and green colors, this ornament storage box can stand out on its own as a holiday decor item. A single handle makes it easy to slide the box in and out from under the bed, and the lid fits snugly to protect ornaments from dust and dirt.

Get the Honey-Can-Do ornament storage at Amazon, Walmart, Staples, or Honey-Can-Do.

Best with Drawers

Balsam Hill Deluxe Rolling Ornament Chest

 The Balsam Hill Deluxe Rolling Ornament Chest on a white background.
Photo: Amazon


Product Specs 

  • Material: Steel, polyester, and acid-free fabric
  • Capacity: 120 ornaments
  • Dimensions: 39 inches tall by 26.5 inches wide by 16.5 inches deep

What We Like

  • User-friendly pull-out drawers
  • Trays are removable with acid-free liners
  • Sturdy, steel construction
  • Wheeled base for easy moving

What We Don’t Like

  • Costlier than most ornament storage options

Looking for a more substantial ornament storage solution? The Balsam Hill 120-piece ornament chest is a good choice. This rolling chestlike ornament holder has pull-out drawers, so it feels more like a portable wardrobe than an ornament box.

Though it has a chest design, it’s still easy to access and move around. It’s made with a sturdy steel frame and has divided, removable trays that are lined with acid-free fabric. Altogether, the trays hold 120 ornaments. A zippered polyester canvas cover keeps all the drawers in place, and users can store other holiday bits and bobs in the front pocket. A telescoping handle and built-in wheels mean it’s possible to wheel this chest in and out of storage, season after season.

Get the Balsam Hill ornament storage at Amazon, Nordstrom, or Balsam Hill.

Best Water-Resistant

Sterilite Christmas Ornament Storage Case

 The Sterilite Christmas Ornament Storage Case on a white background.
Photo: Amazon


Product Specs 

  • Material: Plastic
  • Capacity: 20
  • Dimensions: 4 inches tall by 17.38 inches wide by 21.63 inches deep

What We Like

  • Plastic construction and tight lid for exceptional water resistance
  • See-through lid makes ornaments ease to see 
  • Cupped compartments keep round ornaments in place

What We Don’t Like

  • Ornament spaces are not adjustable

Though special ornaments should always be stored in dry conditions, mishaps can happen, especially in areas that are at risk of dampness or flooding. Those looking for water-resistant storage will want to consider the Sterilite Christmas ornament storage case. The case is fully made of plastic, and while it doesn’t have a watertight seal, the lid latches tightly to help prevent water ingress.

One case holds up to 20 ornaments measuring up to 3 inches in diameter. This case is intended for round ornaments: Instead of adjustable dividers, it has cuplike compartments. Simple but effective, the case features trays that have a transparent lid. They’re also stackable for easier in-closet storage.

Get the Sterilite ornament storage at Amazon, Wayfair (6-pack), Walmart (6-pack), or Target (6-pack).

Most Versatile

Zober Rigid 2-in-1 Christmas Ornament Storage Box

 The Zober Rigid 2-in-1 Christmas Ornament Storage Box on a white background and open to reveal a variety of stored decorations.
Photo: Amazon


Product Specs 

  • Material: Polyester
  • Capacity: 73 ornaments
  • Dimensions: 18 inches tall by 27.95 inches wide by 12.6 inches deep

What We Like

  • Useful for storing ornaments and other items 
  • Has a variety of pockets and a Velcro divider
  • Ornament storage trays are removable

What We Don’t Like

  • Not easily stackable 

When it comes to Christmas decorations, it’s rarely just ornaments that need to be stowed postseason. Folks can store an array of festive decor items with this organizer case from Zober. This storage bag has space for 73 ornaments in removable divided trays. The trays have 64 slots to hold 3-inch ornaments and nine slots to hold larger 4-inch ornaments, but the dividers are adjustable as well to suit even larger decorations.

The five trays fit into the breathable zippered polyester canvas bag, which features a range of handy storage pockets. Besides the trays section, users can adjust the included Velcro dividers to store figurines. Additional pockets on the outside and in the lid add more space for tinsel, Christmas lights, and other accessories.

Get the Zober ornament storage at Amazon or Walmart.

Jump to Our Top Picks 

We Chose the Best Ornament Storage

Proper storage can help ornaments last for years. We considered more than 20 ornament organizer products before narrowing down our top picks, taking product specifications and consumer reviews into account.

Different ornaments have different storage needs, so we included a range of ornament storage container types made of a variety of materials, including acid-free and lined options for storing delicate ornaments.

Regardless of the storage type, performance was the main feature we looked for. We chose ornament storage boxes with reliable enclosures, useful dividers, and ample capacity to organize holiday baubles. Lastly, we kept affordability in mind, choosing both budget-friendly and high-end products so most anyone can take advantage of a smarter way to protect and store Christmas ornaments.

What to Consider When Choosing Ornament Storage

Ornament storage boxes offer organizational features that differ from those of regular storage bins. A good ornament storage product includes dividers, compartments, or removable trays to store cherished Christmas ornaments safely. When choosing the best ornament storage option, consider the storage size and shape, material, and additional organization and convenience features.

Size and Shape

Ornament storage products come in various shapes and sizes to suit different storage needs. Square and rectangular storage boxes and soft-sided bags rank among the most common shapes. Consider where the Christmas ornaments will be stored and choose a suitable container shape for that location. For example, a square storage bin fits nicely in a narrow closet, while a flat rectangular box slides right under most beds. For large collections, stackable boxes make it easier to store several cases of ornaments in a tall closet or storage unit.

Along with the box dimensions, most product specs for ornament storage boxes also include their ornament capacity, which describes the number of divider spaces included (usually sized to hold a standard ball ornament). Choose a suitable capacity with enough room to store a current collection, plus a few more spaces for any keepsakes or gifts received through the seasons.

Material 

When it comes to ornament storage containers, the most common materials are plastic, cardboard, and fabric. Plastic is a sturdy, water-resistant option, but it doesn’t breathe. Clear plastic makes it easy to see the Christmas decorations inside the container, but it won’t offer protection from sunlight.

Cardboard storage boxes come in a range of shapes and fun colors. While they aren’t as sturdy as plastic, they’re both breathable and usually more affordable. Some are covered with a material lining to make the box look more attractive. Fabric bags, also breathable, come with the obvious drawback that they aren’t stackable. However, they can easily fold down for storage when not in use. Both cardboard and fabric containers may offer light protection.

While just about any storage material will do for sturdy Christmas ornaments, like store-bought plastic baubles, delicate ornaments and keepsakes benefit from certain features in a storage box. Fragile ornaments like handblown glass ones and vintage pieces should be shaded from sunlight to prevent fading. Breathable boxes make the best options to store these ornament types. Also look for acid-free materials, since acid can leach the color from objects stored inside. One option is to look for acid-free cardboard boxes. Another is to wrap each item in acid-free tissue before placing it in a storage bin.

Organization Features

Placing a bunch of stray ornaments in a box almost guarantees broken pieces or a glittery mess. Most ornament storage boxes feature plastic or cardboard dividers to keep ornaments separated and safe. Dividers can range from simple compartments to adjustable partitions. Most dividers accommodate a typical ball ornament. Removable dividers often accommodate irregularly shaped baubles more easily.

Lined inserts provide a softer, safer spot to place ornaments, which is especially useful for delicate items like handblown glass ornaments. Pull-out and removable trays, another useful accessory to consider, make it much easier to access the layers of ornaments within a box, both when decorating the tree and when it’s time to take it all back down.

Additional Features

Ornament storage boxes may include additional features that make them more convenient to use. For extra convenience, look for an ornament storage box with carrying handles; zippered, Velcro, or latched lids; or a spot for labels.

  • Carrying handles: Sturdy handles make it easier to take the ornament box in and out of storage, which is especially useful if the ornaments are stored under the bed, in the attic, or in the basement.
  • Secure lid: A lid that can be securely closed can help keep Christmas ornaments safe while in storage or transport. Zippers, Velcro, or latches can help keep the lid on so no ornaments come spilling out of the box.
  • Label: For a large ornament collection, labeled storage boxes can help keep things even more organized, without the need to open up the box to check its contents.

Tips for Storing Christmas Ornaments

Whether it’s for sparkly plastic ornaments or vintage heirlooms, after the holiday season, it’s important to store decorations properly so they last through the years. The first step is to find an appropriate ornament storage container in which to store the ornaments. Look for storage boxes with suitable dividers to ensure ornaments don’t knock against each other, and choose materials that are acid-free for storing delicate ornaments.

Remove any dust or dirt from ornaments carefully before storing. A light dusting is enough for most ornaments. While some ornaments can handle wet cleaning, avoid water when cleaning very delicate or painted pieces.

When the ornaments are ready for storage, carefully place them into the chosen Christmas ornament storage box, ensuring that they won’t rub against or hit each other (one ornament per compartment is the best way to keep them safe). Very delicate ornaments often benefit from being wrapped in acid-free tissue paper. It’s best to store ornaments in a temperature-controlled room that remains dry and cool throughout the year. In short, take the following steps to store Christmas ornaments safely:

  • Clean ornaments before storing.
  • Wrap delicate ornaments, if needed.
  • Store ornaments in a box with appropriate dividers.
  • Place the Christmas ornament storage container in a dry, cool, and temperature-controlled room.

FAQs

Christmas tree ornaments spend most of the year in storage, so it’s important to stow them correctly. Investing in an ornament storage box is one easy step to ensure ornaments stay protected and organized so you can keep your ornaments safe and avoid Christmas decorating mishaps. Read on for some frequently asked questions and answers on storing ornaments.

Q. How do you store Christmas ornaments?

Ornament storage products are the most convenient option for storing Christmas ornaments. They already have built-in dividers for organizing Christmas baubles, making them a hassle-free and damage-resistant choice. For another option, you can use a storage bin with homemade cardboard dividers to keep ornaments separated.

Q. Can I keep my tree topper with my ornaments?

Yes, if your Christmas ornament storage box has the space, you can slide your tree topper in along with your ornaments. If the topper is large, consider a storage solution with adjustable dividers.

Q. Is it OK to store Christmas decorations in the garage or shed?

It’s best to store Christmas ornaments in a temperature-controlled room that is dry and cool. If your garage or shed goes through major temperature or moisture fluctuations, it’s better to store your ornaments elsewhere.

Q. Should I keep ornament boxes?

If the ornament box is sturdy enough to use for storage, there is no harm in keeping ornaments in the box they came in. You can always upgrade to an ornament storage container later on if the original box is no longer suitable.

The post The 10 Best Ornament Storage Options to Protect and Organize Your Holiday Baubles – Editor Approved appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
141353
The Best Rotating Christmas Tree Stands for a Festive Display https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-rotating-christmas-tree-stand/ Wed, 29 Sep 2021 10:18:30 +0000 https://www.bobvila.com/articles/?p=179186 The best rotating Christmas tree stands add holiday magic to your decor. Our buyer's guide includes choices for live and artificial trees.

The post The Best Rotating Christmas Tree Stands for a Festive Display appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
Rotating Christmas tree stands up the “wow” factor of any yuletide decor, creating a dynamic display for all of your ornaments. With one of these handy stands, there’s no need to hang your holiday decorations on one side of the tree.  On a rotating stand, your tree will showcase treasured ornaments from every angle.

We researched more than a dozen revolving tree stands before landing on these eight exceptional products for this guide. We like the  Best Choice Products 360-Degree Rotating Tree Stand for its sturdy construction and ability to support many tree sizes, but it’s not the only one we like.

Ahead, discover even more of the best rotating Christmas tree stands, along with some important considerations to keep in mind when choosing one.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Best Choice Products 360-Degree Rotating Tree Stand
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Puleo International Rotating Artificial Tree Stand
  3. BEST FOR LARGE TREES: Home Heritage Electric 360-Degree Rotating Tree Stand
  4. BEST FOR SMALL TREES: Teal Turtle Winter Wonder Rotating Tree Stand
  5. BEST FOR MYRIAD LIGHTS: Vickerman 24-Inch Electric Rotating Tree Stand
  6. BEST FOR LIVE TREES: Northlight 24-Inch Rotating Christmas Tree Stand
A person using a small remote to adjust the settings on the best rotating Christmas tree stand
Photo: amazon.com

Our Top Picks

Our list includes viable options from reputable brands. Selections for live and artificial trees in a variety of sizes made the list, and the choices include revolving tree stands that play cheerful holiday music as they turn. Before creating a DIY stand, read on to discover the best rotating Christmas tree stand for holiday celebrations.

Best Overall

Best Choice Products 360-Degree Rotating Stand

 Best Choice Products green 360-Degree Rotating Stand on a white background with coiled cord
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs 

  • Dimensions: 26 inches long by 26 inches wide by 7.5 inches tall
  • Weight: 3.7 pounds
  • Tree-support capacity: Artificial tree up to 7.5 feet tall and 80 pounds

What We Like

  • Provides continuous 360-degree rotation
  • 3 built-in 2-prong electrical outlets for lights
  • Sturdy construction can support most tree sizes 

What We Don’t Like

  • Suitable for artificial trees only

This rotating Christmas tree stand from Best Choice Products claims a 26-inch footprint and stands 7.5 inches tall. When in operation, the stand rotates continuously, making a full 360-degree revolution every 70 seconds. The tree stand has three easy-to-operate settings, so users may choose to operate with lights and rotation, with lights only, or to shut off both lights and rotation.

Constructed from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic, the stand provides a durable base for artificial trees up to 7.5 feet tall and 80 pounds (with decorations). Three built-in, two-pronged electrical outlets offer ample capacity for plugging in Christmas lights without entangling multiple cords.

What our tester says: “Our artificial tree easily slid into the stand, and the lights were easy to plug into the stand’s outlet. Once we clicked on the stand’s power switch, our tree rotated at a nice pace without tangling any cords.”Becky Helzer, Bob Vila copy editor and product tester

Get the Best Choice Products rotating Christmas tree stand at Amazon, Target, or Best Choice Products.

Best Bang for the Buck

Puleo International Rotating Artificial Tree Stand

 The Puleo International green Rotating Tree Stand on a white background with foot pedal power pedal
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs 

  • Dimensions: 26 inches long by 26 inches wide by 8 inches tall
  • Weight: 3 pounds
  • Tree-support capacity: Artificial trees up to 8 feet tall and 66 pounds

What We Like

  • Colorful finish options
  • Comes with a built-in electrical socket for lights
  • Made using heavy-duty powder-coated steel

What We Don’t Like

  • Does not include a remote

Puleo International is known for some of the best artificial Christmas trees and wreaths for all seasons. This rotating Christmas tree stand is available at a budget-friendly price, and it highlights the beauty of a glimmering artificial tree by showing it from all sides.

The stand operates at one rotational speed, and users can reverse the direction by turning the tree slightly in the opposite direction. A toggle switch on the electrical cord lies flat on the floor, allowing users to modulate from “on” to “off” with a gentle press of the toe to prevent overnight fire hazards. This feature eliminates the need to bend over and reach under the tree. For safety, the Puleo International tree stand is both flame-retardant and nonallergenic.

Get the Puleo International rotating Christmas tree stand at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Target

Best for Large Trees

Home Heritage Electric 360-Degree Rotating Tree Stand

 Home Heritage Electric 360-Degree Rotating gold Tree Stand on a white background with pole adapters
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs 

  • Dimensions: 22 inches in diameter by 9 inches tall
  • Weight: 15 pounds
  • Tree-support capacity: Artificial trees up to 9 feet tall and 120 pounds

What We Like

  • Colorful finish options
  • Comes with a built-in electrical socket for lights
  • Made using heavy-duty powder-coated steel

What We Don’t Like

  • Does not include a remote

Most rotating Christmas tree stands hold trees up to 7.5 feet tall. But for revelers who like to go big with their decorations, this heavy-duty metal Christmas tree stand fits the bill. With its powder-coated steel construction, it’s designed to hold artificial trees up to 9 feet tall and weighing up to 120 pounds with decorations. Additionally, its gold metallic finish exudes a festive, seasonal vibe for users’ personal Christmas central.

The easy initial setup procedure requires only a screwdriver. A built-in power switch facilitates a 360-degree rotation to view the entire tree, and a built-in electrical socket provides ample power to connect Christmas lights. Home Heritage recommends that users should not exceed 8 amps and 960 watts total combined load for the two power receptacles.

What our tester says: “This attractive, sturdy stand quietly twirled my 7.5-foot decorated tree and provided a more stable base than my tree’s included stand—no more wobbling!”Beth Cranston, Bob Vila editor and product tester

Get the Home Heritage rotating Christmas tree stand at The Home Depot or Target.

Best for Small Trees

Teal Turtle Winter Wonder Rotating Tree Stand

 Teal Turtle Winter Wonder green Rotating Tree Stand on white background
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs 

  • Dimensions: 11 inches long by 8 inches wide by 5.5 inches tall
  • Weight: 3.15 pounds
  • Tree-support capacity: Artificial trunk diameter of 1¼ inches; weight up to 80 pounds

What We Like

  • Full 365-degree rotation to view all lights and ornaments; creates a lovely ambience 
  • 3 electrical outlets built into the power cord for added convenience when installing 
  • Easy assembly; no tools or additional help required for setup
  • Legs detach for compact storage during the offseason

What We Don’t Like

  • No power switch included on power cord 
  • Plastic construction, not metal

For safety and efficiency, the manufacturers of rotating Christmas tree stands set height and weight limits for the trees that their stands can successfully support. Here’s an attractive choice for a stand that will support a small to medium-size tree while it rotates 365 degrees. The revolving stand from Teal Turtle is intended for artificial trees weighing no more than 80 pounds when fully adorned with Christmas ornaments.

The manufacturer specifies that the opening in this stand accommodates an artificial tree pole of 1¼ inches in diameter, and two fitting adapters can accommodate multiple tree sizes. This unit also has three dual-prong power outlets so that lights can be plugged directly into the Christmas tree stand, eliminating the need for multiple cords stretching across the floor. The maximum electrical load should not exceed 400 watts. The only downside to this tree is that it does not have a switch on the power cord, and it must be unplugged after every use.

Get the Teal Turtle rotating Christmas tree stand at Amazon.

Best for Myriad Lights

Vickerman 24-Inch Electric Rotating Tree Stand

 Vickerman 24-Inch green, x-shaped Electric Rotating Tree Stand on white background
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs 

  • Dimensions: 26 inches in diameter by 8 inches high
  • Weight: 3.92 pounds
  • Tree-support capacity: Up to 7.5 feet tall and 80 pounds

What We Like

  • Durable and long-lasting construction
  • Vickerman boasts excellent brand reputation for reliability 
  • Versatile operating modes to suit a variety of preferences

What We Don’t Like

  • Not able to support larger trees
  • Does not operate via remote control

Escalate the brilliance of the Christmas season by showing off the myriad lights on the decorated tree, which revolves 360 degrees every 70 seconds. The operating switch on this rotating tree stand allows users to choose from two modes of operation: “rotation with lights” or “lights only” without rotation.

This tree stand holds an artificial tree with a trunk diameter of 0.75 or 1.25 inches and a maximum height and weight of 7.5 feet and 80 pounds. For an extra-festive atmosphere, the Vickerman stand supports 1,500 lights that bring out the beauty of any embellished tree.

Find peace of mind with products from Vickerman; the company has been importing stunning Christmas decorations and making them available in the U.S. since 1940.

Get the Vickerman rotating Christmas tree stand at Amazon or Target.

Best for Live Trees

Northlight 24-Inch Rotating Christmas Tree Stand

 Northlight 24-Inch green Rotating Christmas Tree Stand on white background
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs 

  • Dimensions: 24 inches in diameter by 7.75 inches tall
  • Weight: 2.5 pounds
  • Tree-support capacity: Live tree up to 7 feet tall, 65 pounds

What We Like

  • Plays music while moving
  • Includes a water reservoir for live trees
  • Versatile operating modes

What We Don’t Like

  • Does not rotate 360 degrees
  • Artificial trees will be too narrow to fit
  • Not heavy-duty construction

Fresh, live Christmas trees bring in the ambience of the season with their graceful evergreen branches and memory-evoking fragrance. Showcase a small, live tree with this Christmas tree stand that rotates 150 degrees in one direction and automatically reverses to rotate 150 degrees in the opposite direction. For additional holiday fun, the stand plays festive, seasonal music.

Northlight provides a water reservoir to keep a live tree fresh and healthy in this rotating stand. Claiming a 24-inch diameter footprint, the plastic Christmas tree stand will support a live tree weighing up to 65 pounds (with decorations) and standing up to 7 feet tall.

Get the Northlight rotating Christmas tree stand at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Target.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Rotating Christmas Tree Stands

We chose the rotating Christmas tree stands in our Top Picks list after investigating more than 20 products available from several retail outlets. Searching for sturdy stands to support varying sizes and types of Christmas trees, we looked for usable and enjoyable characteristics. Primary differences among our choices include stands for live or artificial trees and those for large or small trees.

Revolving tree stands with ample accommodations for decorations made the cut as did those with toggle switches for selection of operational modes. We included tree stands that play music while they rotate as well as one model that functions via remote control. Rotating stands made of both metal and plastic made the list, with metal stands filling the need for heavy-duty support of larger trees.

What to Consider When Choosing a Rotating Christmas Tree Stand

Before purchasing a rotating Christmas tree stand, consider several factors. First, determine whether the stand will support a live tree or an artificial tree in a large or small size as well as whether a plastic or metal stand is best suited for the tree. Once those decisions are made, it’s fun to choose additional features for the revolving Christmas tree stand, such as music-playing capacity, remote control, and electrical receptacles for ornamental tree lights.

Material 

Rotating Christmas tree stands are generally constructed of either metal or plastic, and in most cases, metal is seen as a more durable material than plastic. If a large, heavy tree is to be displayed, a heavy-duty Christmas tree stand made of metal may be a wise choice.

For users who plan to celebrate the season with live trees, it’s important to select a revolving tree stand that is specially designed to accommodate the trunk of a live tree and that also provides a water reservoir. When displaying a live tree, a metal stand may be the wise choice, but there are many well-made, plastic revolving tree stands on the market that hold either live or artificial trees.

Tree Size

Before selecting the most suitable rotating Christmas tree stand, shoppers should consider the size of the tree they intend to display. Product descriptions include information about the maximum height and weight of trees that each Christmas tree stand will support. Be aware that the calculated weight of the tree includes all the ornaments and decorations that adorn it. In addition to weight, it’s important to observe height limitations to ensure that the Christmas tree stand can safely support the tree.

In addition, consider the diameter of the tree trunk before purchasing an appropriate Christmas tree stand. Artificial trees have center poles that measure approximately 1 inch to 1.5 inches in diameter. On the other hand, live tree trunks may be around 5 inches in diameter. Check out the center opening of a rotating Christmas tree stand before purchasing it to ensure it will accommodate the tree of choice.

Ease of Use and Settings

Some revolving tree stands require minimal setup, and many are ready to use straight out of the box. If setup is required, it usually takes only a couple of minutes and a screwdriver. Once it’s set up, the stand is ready to plug in and operate.

Many rotating Christmas tree stands offer versatile operating modes at the touch of a switch, including “on,” “off,” “rotation with lights,” “rotation with music,” and “rotation only.” For ultimate convenience, a few revolving tree stands operate via remote control. On some revolving stands, the operational switches are located directly on the stand. Other models provide toggle switches on the electrical cords. The second option offers greater convenience, as a simple push of the toggle switch with a toe operates the revolving tree stand, and users can avoid bending over and reaching under the tree.

Most rotating Christmas tree stands feature electrical outlets for the tree lights. With these receptacles at the base of the tree, users eliminate the hassle of multiple entangled cords snaking across the floor. Plus, many stands come apart or collapse for storing in a Christmas tree bag or closet.

Tips for Using Rotating Christmas Tree Stands

As with all Christmas decorations, safety is a priority when selecting and using a rotating Christmas tree stand. Shoppers can ensure safe and satisfactory performance by choosing an appropriate revolving tree stand to suit the type, height, and weight of their tree. Select the right type of stand for artificial or live trees and avoid exceeding the height and weight limitations stated by the manufacturer.

  • Use indoors only
  • Place on a stable and even surface
  • Place decorations evenly all around the tree
  • Use two tree skirts to cover the tree stand fully
  • Observe electrical capacity limitations when connecting tree lights to the revolving stand
  • Most effective when placed where the tree can be viewed from all sides
  • May not be a wise option for homes with toddlers or small children

FAQs

As you make exciting plans for the upcoming holiday season, you may have questions about purchasing a revolving tree stand. Rotating Christmas tree stands represent a creative option to enhance the stunning effects of festively adorned trees. Whether you’re searching for a rotating stand to accommodate a live tree or a stand that’s suitable for a large or small artificial tree, you may find inspiration in the following answers to frequently asked questions.

Q. Who sells rotating Christmas tree stands?

Rotating Christmas tree stands are available from Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Target, and Bed Bath & Beyond.

Q. Can I use a rotating tree stand with a real tree?

Yes. Be sure to purchase a rotating tree stand designed especially for live trees. It will have a large opening for the tree trunk along with a water reservoir to keep the tree fresh.

Q. What can I use instead of a tree stand?

Purchase a live, potted tree that can be transplanted into the yard after the holidays. Alternatively, you can place the tree in the center of a galvanized tub and hold it upright with gravel and cinder blocks.

The post The Best Rotating Christmas Tree Stands for a Festive Display appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
179186
The Best Hardwood Floor Cleaner Machines, Tested and Reviewed https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-hardwood-floor-cleaner-machine/ Fri, 23 Apr 2021 11:11:57 +0000 We tested steam mops, spin mops, and robotic mops to find the best cleaners for hardwood floors. These 10 models will leave floors gleaming.

The post The Best Hardwood Floor Cleaner Machines, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
Hardwood floors lend a timeless appeal to any home, but cleaning them can be time-consuming, which is where a hardwood floor cleaner machine can help.

For maximum effectiveness, many hardwood floor cleaners offer vacuum-suction action to remove dust, dirt, and debris from floors and allow users to mop wood floors, clean sticky messes, and produce a shine. 

Aaron Christensen, vice president of growth at the nationwide house-cleaning service platform Homeaglow, recommends that shoppers look for vacuum/mop combos with gentle roller heads. He also advises, “If you’re using mops on hardwood floors, it’s more about control of liquid.” Models that use low amounts of moisture or have on-demand cleaning solutions are ideal.

In order to achieve our mission to find the most efficient method for cleaning hardwoods, we researched 16 popular floor cleaning models and tested the top 10. Our favorite, the Bissell SpinWave Hard Floor Spin Mop, cleans gently and thoroughly and with minimal effort on the user’s part.

Ahead, learn about the optional features and attributes that are offered with some of the best hardwood floor cleaner machines.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Bissell SpinWave Hard Floor Spin Mop
    ↓ Jump to Review
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bissell PowerFresh Scrubbing & Sanitizing Steam Mop
    ↓ Jump to Review
  3. UPGRADE PICK: Bissell CrossWave Multi-Surface Wet/Dry Vacuum
    ↓ Jump to Review
  4. BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Shark S7001 Steam & Scrub Mop
    ↓ Jump to Review
  5. BEST ROBOTIC: iRobot Wi-Fi–Connected Braava Jet M6 Robot Mop
    ↓ Jump to Review
  6. BEST FOR PETS: Bissell 2306A CrossWave Pet Pro Wet/Dry Vac
    ↓ Jump to Review
  7. BEST CORDLESS: Tineco Floor One S3 Smart Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner
    ↓ Jump to Review
  8. BEST MULTISURFACE: Bissell 1785A CrossWave Multi-Surface Wet/Dry Vac
    ↓ Jump to Review
Person cleaning hardwood floor with gray Bissell crosswave wet/dry vacuum
Photo: Katie Barton for Bob Vila

Our Top Picks

Our top picks for the best hardwood floor cleaning machines are high-quality products from reputable manufacturers. We picked a variety of mops and vacuums to suit individual needs, and we put each model through extensive testing. The recommendations consist of both corded and cordless options for wet/dry mopping and vacuuming, as well as a vacuum-only model. A robotic wet/dry floor cleaning machine is included, demonstrating how technology facilitates convenient automated cleaning. 

Best Overall

Bissell SpinWave Hard Floor Spin Mop

 The Bissell 2039A Spin Mop on a white background
Photo: acehardware.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5;Effectiveness 4.5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Noise 5/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Spin mop
  • Corded vs. cordless: Corded 
  • Weight: 9.5 pounds

What We Like

  • On-demand spray system for greater cleaning control
  • Includes 2 bottles of multisurface cleaning solution
  • Swivel steering system makes this spin mop easy to use

What We Don’t Like

  • At 9.5 pounds, this model is heavy
  • May not be capable of pulling grout stains

Bissell’s corded SpinWave electric floor mop features two spinning mopheads that perform a scrubbing action to keep sealed hardwood floors and tile floors in spotless condition. It safely brings out an attractive shine on hard floors as the spinning pads scrub away soils and spills. 

Bissell’s on-demand spray system gives users precise control over the quantity of cleaning solution released onto the floor. The included multisurface floor cleaning formula provides sanitizing action with the help of two included soft-touch pads and two included scrubby pads. 

The Bissell SpinWave gently scrubbed dirt from our floor and buffed it to a shine. The spinning action helped self-propel it, and it took little effort on our part to control the mop. We easily maneuvered it around obstacles, and thanks to the protruding mop pads and slim head, it was able to clean up against baseboards and the edge of cabinets. The on-demand spray was ideal for our hardwoods, allowing us to damp mop and increase moisture for stuck-on messes.

The SpinWave performed well on our stain tests, removing the pasta sauce and soft drink in only a couple of passes. We’ve used the SpinWave dozens of times, and the mop pads have held up well after several washes. It’s a gentle mop suitable for all floor types, including moisture-sensitive flooring like hardwoods and laminate.

Get the Bissell SpinWave floor cleaner machine at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Bang For The Buck

Bissell PowerFresh Scrubbing & Sanitizing Steam Mop

 Bissell PowerFresh Scrubbing & Sanitizing Steam Mop on a white background
Photo: Amazon

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5;Effectiveness 5/5; Maneuverability 4.5/5; Noise 4.5/5; Value 4/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Steam mop
  • Corded vs. cordless: Corded 
  • Weight: 6.2 pounds 

What We Like

  • No cleaning solution is required
  • Eliminates 99 percent of germs and bacteria
  • Water heats up quickly for steam-cleaning
  • Easy to maneuver

What We Don’t Like

  • No cleaning attachments are included

Combine the money-saving value of a modestly priced floor cleaning machine with the environmentally friendly option of using steam power to lift away dirt and messes. The PowerFresh steam mop from Bissell does not require a cleaning solution, so there are no chemicals involved in the cleaning process. As a bonus feature, the steam eliminates 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria found on floor surfaces.

After unboxing the Bissell PowerFresh, we assembled it, which took less than a minute. We filled the 16-ounce-capacity tank and plugged the model in. It heated up in about 30 seconds, allowing us to choose one of the steam settings, which included low, medium, and high. For regular cleaning of our hardwood floors, we chose the low setting. It emitted plenty of steam to tackle everyday messes, the slim swivel head fit under cabinet edges and furniture, and it maneuvered well around toilets.

Wanting to see how well the Bissell steam mop could handle messes, we trickled marinara sauce and a soft drink on our hardwoods, giving the substances several hours to dry. Then we plugged in the PowerFresh and put it on the high setting. In only a few passes, the steam broke down the mess, and the microfiber pad absorbed it, leaving our floors clean.

Those looking for a steam mop can’t go wrong with the PowerFresh. It’s easy to maneuver, cleans well even on its lowest setting, and has a slim head that fits around and under obstacles. It also comes with a washable microfiber soft pad, washable microfiber scrubby pad, two spring breeze fragrance discs, and carpet glider. 

Get the Bissell PowerFresh hardwood floor cleaner machine at Amazon, Walmart, or Bissell.

Upgrade Pick

Bissell CrossWave Multi-Surface Wet/Dry Vacuum

 The Bissell 2554A CrossWave Wet Dry Vacuum on white background
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs 

  • Type: Wet/dry vacuum 
  • Corded vs. cordless: Cordless 
  • Weight: 11.5 pounds

What We Like

  • Long 30-minute runtime allows
  • Suitable for hard surface floors and carpets
  • A dual-tank system separates clean and dirty water
  • Self-cleaning cycle

What We Don’t Like

  • Expensive price point
  • Hair balls sometimes form in the roller brush

Forget the hassle of manipulating a power cord while cleaning floors. The rechargeable 36-volt lithium-ion battery in this wet/dry vacuum from Bissell delivers 30 minutes of cordless cleaning power. As an added bonus, it provides efficient performance on both carpet and wood floors. Laminate flooring, rubber mats, tile floors, rugs, and linoleum also benefit from the cleaning power of this cordless hard floor cleaner. 

We used the Bissell CrossWave in a 1,000-square-foot apartment. We filled up the clean water tank, added the cleaning solution, and powered on our machine. With the push of a button, we could switch from vacuuming area rugs to cleaning hardwoods. The CrossWave was easy to maneuver, and the 30-minute battery life lasted long enough to clean the entire home.

With the pull of a trigger on the back of the handle, we could release the cleaning solution, letting us customize the amount. The on-demand solution was also helpful when we needed to clean up messes, like pasta sauce that splashed on the floor the day prior. We were impressed by this machine’s suction power. Many vacuums we’ve tried in the past scattered kitty litter across our floor, but the Crosswave suctioned up every little particle.

Once we finished cleaning, we emptied out the dirty water tank and returned the CrossWave to its three-in-one docking station. The docking station can store the machine, recharge the battery, and run the self-cleaning cycle, all at the same time. 

Get the Bissell 2554A hardwood floor cleaner machine at Amazon, Target, or Bissell.

Best Lightweight

Shark S7001 Steam & Scrub Mop

 The Shark S7001 Steam & Scrub Mop on white background
Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5;Effectiveness 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Noise 5/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Steam mop
  • Corded vs. cordless: Corded
  • Weight: 7.8 pounds

What We Like

  • Produces steam and spinning action
  • 3 settings allow users to adjust the level of steam
  • Does not need cleaning solution

What We Don’t Like

  • Steam-cleaning is not suitable for all hardwood floors
  • Mop pads feel rough after machine washing

The Shark Steam & Scrub mop combines the dirt-lifting power of steam with the scrubbing power of a spin mop for a squeaky-clean floor. The mop features three settings, including light, normal, and deep, and produces steam within 60 seconds. It comes with two sets of Dirt Grip soft scrub pads and a filling flask.

After receiving the Shark Steam & Scrub, we used the flask to fill the water tank and powered it on. The mop pads started spinning, and steam emitted from around the pads after about a minute. The mop was easy to maneuver, thanks to the swivel steering and the spinning motion that helped self-propel it. 

The steam and spinning combo turned out to be an absolute powerhouse, and the cleaning ability of this mop was unrivaled. We used it to power through our test substances of dried pasta sauce and a soft drink, and it only took a couple of passes to clear each. 

The mophead was slim enough to fit under cabinet overhangs and low-to-the-ground furniture. Since the mop pads extended on each side, we could clean along baseboards and other obstacles. We also used the mop on our ceramic tile, and it picked up all the dirt, leaving the floors clean and sanitized. 

Once the mop pads were sufficiently dirty, we threw them in the washer and dryer. We liked that they’re machine washable, but they did come out feeling a bit rough after going through the wash. 

Get the Shark S7001 hardwood floor cleaner machine at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Target.

Best Robotic

iRobot Wi-Fi–Connected Braava Jet M6 Robot Mop

 The iRobot Wifi-Connected Braava Robot Mop on white background with green iRobot logo on phone
Photo: bestbuy.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3/5; Effectiveness 3.5/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Noise 4/5; Value 3/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Robotic 
  • Corded vs. cordless: Cordless 
  • Weight: 4.85 pounds

What We Like

  • Includes both mopping and dry-sweeping pads 
  • Can clean pet waste, mud, or spills as well as everyday messes
  • Smart mapping and Roomba app control

What We Don’t Like

  • Requires vacuuming before use
  • Took several attempts to map our closed-concept layout
  • More suitable for recent messes

While this one isn’t exactly a Roomba, it’s certainly in the family. Meant for use on wood, tile, or stone floors, the M6 is perfect for cleaning spills, pet waste, and other messes. Similar to iRobot’s vacuums, this automated M6 mop features smart mapping and coordinated app control. Users can pair the app to voice-control devices to direct the bot quickly to clean up specified areas. Sensors allow it to navigate obstacles easily and avoid stairs. 

For a true hands-off cleaning experience, this bot can connect to select Roomba models to trigger mopping automatically after a vacuum cycle. It comes with dry-sweeping as well as wet-mopping pads. The robot will automatically adjust its cleaning cycles to whichever type of pad is attached. 

We tested the M6 over a period of several weeks, allowing it to mop regular messes and attempt to clean dried-on food. But first, we had to set it up. After receiving and charging this robot mop, we downloaded the app and allowed the Braava to map our floor. Unfortunately, it took four attempts to get the Braava to make it into every room, which could be due to the closed-concept 5-room layout of our first floor. 

Once we succeeded with mapping, we used the wet-mop mode to clean our hardwoods. The Jet M6 was thorough and tackled regular dirt build-up like a pro. Unfortunately, it didn’t have enough scrubbing power to remove the dried marinara sauce and soft drink. Instead, we had to scrub them by hand afterward.

The M6 is a good choice for those who have a compatible Roomba model and are looking for an everyday cleaner. Spot-cleaning bigger messes, however, may still be required.

Get the iRobot hardwood floor cleaner machine at Best Buy, The Home Depot, Target, or iRobot.

Best For Pets

Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro Wet/Dry Vac

 The Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro Wet Dry Vac with extra brush roll, sample cleaning solution, and accesories on white background
Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5;Effectiveness 4.5/5; Maneuverability 4.5/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Wet/dry vacuum and mop
  • Corded vs. cordless: Corded
  • Weight: 11.5 pounds 

What We Like

  • Includes a tangle-free brush roll
  • Dual-tank system for clean and dirty water
  • Suitable for many hard surface floors and area rugs 

What We Don’t Like

  • Expensive price point

For those with small homes or limited storage space, owning multiple floor cleaners for different surface types may not be an option. That’s where the Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro vacuum cleaner comes in. It functions as both a mop and vacuum and is suitable for tile, sealed wood, laminate, linoleum, and vinyl flooring as well as area rugs and more. Like other models in the Bissell CrossWave line, this one features two tanks to keep clean and dirty water separate. 

What sets this model apart, however, is that it’s designed specifically for pet owners. It comes with a tangle-free brush roll, which is perfect for picking up long pet hairs, as well as a pet hair strainer and a multisurface formula that masks pet odors. 

We used this machine to wash our floors and remove pet hair. It was able to pick up a lot of hair, and thanks to the multisurface formula, it also helped eliminate odors. When it was time to empty the dirty water tank, the pet hair strainer helped keep the larger debris and hair from mixing in with the water. We could dump the larger debris in the trash and the dirty water in the toilet or sink. 

Get the Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro floor cleaner machine at Amazon or Target.

Best Cordless

Tineco Floor One S3 Smart Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner

 The Tineco Floor One S3 Smart Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner on white background
Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3.5/5;Effectiveness 4.5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Noise 5/5; Value 3/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Wet/dry vacuum and mop
  • Corded vs. cordless: Cordless 
  • Weight: 17.64 pounds 

What We Like

  • Automatically adjusts suction power and water flow 
  • Features a self-cleaning cycle 
  • Quiet operation

What We Don’t Like

  • Expensive price point
  • Must manually rinse the brush roll after running the self-clean cycle

Cordless models ultimately make cleaning the floors in smaller spaces quicker and easier. The Tineco Floor One S3 is one of the best options on the market because it’s lightweight, powerful, and functions as both a mop and vacuum. It detects messes and automatically adjusts suction power and water flow accordingly. 

It’s capable of running for up to 35 minutes at a time on a single charge and features a self-cleaning cycle that flushes out dirt, hair, and debris after each use. Despite its powerful functionality, this model operates quietly, allowing users to clean while other members of the household are working or sleeping. It’s suitable for cleaning sealed hard floors.

The suction on the Tineco was adequate to clean large debris like bits of cereal and small dust particles. We used it in auto mode, and its suction increased and decreased depending on the level of dirt it was cleaning. The Tineco was very easy to maneuver, and its head was slim enough to fit under all of the low furniture in our house. 

After cleaning, we placed this wet/dry vac back on its charger, and the voice assistant instructed us to empty the dirty water tank and run the self-clean cycle. We followed the prompts and then manually rinsed the dirty water tank and brush roll, leaving the brush roll to air-dry for 24 hours.

Get the Tineco hardwood floor cleaner machine at Amazon or Tineco.

Best Multisurface

Bissell CrossWave Multi-Surface Wet/Dry Vac

 The Bissell CrossWave Wet Dry Vac with brush roll, cleaner, accessories on white background
Photo: amazon.com

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5;Effectiveness 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Noise 5/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Wet/dry vacuum and mop
  • Corded vs. cordless: Corded 
  • Weight: 11.5 pounds

What We Like

  • Includes a multisurface brush roll 
  • Swivel steering makes it easy to maneuver
  • Suitable for a variety of surfaces
  • Capable of vacuuming and mopping various floors simultaneously

What We Don’t Like

  • Lengthy manual cleaning process
  • Large debris not filtered from dirty water

Vacuum and wash sealed wood floors in one easy step with this dual-action wet/dry vacuum mop from Bissell. There’s no need to vacuum floors before wet mopping. Instead, this machine does both at the same time. It safely and effectively cleans sealed wood floors as well as laminate, rubber floor mats, linoleum, tile, and area rugs.

This Bissell CrossWave features a dual-tank system that keeps the cleaning solution separate from the dirty water to ensure optimal efficiency. We appreciated this during testing, as it makes cleaning the machine much easier. The clean water tank also featured lines indicating how much water and concentrate to add, which took the guesswork out of filling it.

We tested the CrossWave on hardwood floors, allowing it to clean everyday dirt from a family of five. When we powered it on, the brush roll began to spin, and the machine started suctioning. We used the trigger to release the cleaning solution, which let us control how wet our floors got. This feature allowed us to increase the moisture when dealing with sticky messes.

This CrossWave did an excellent job cleaning a dried soft drink and pasta sauce from our hardwoods. It only took a couple of passes on each item before they were completely gone. We also spilled a bowl of cereal (milk and all) on the floor, and the CrossWave had no problem clearing it from the floor.

Our least favorite thing was the clean-out process. After emptying the dirty water tank (which doesn’t filter out the large particles from the water) and running the cleaning cycle, we had to manually rinse the brush roll and filter and then leave them out to dry before reassembling. While the process wasn’t difficult, having to clean out a floor cleaning machine after each use is a bit of an inconvenience, especially if used daily.

Get the Bissell CrossWave Multi-Surface hardwood floor cleaner machine at Amazon or Target.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Hardwood Floor Cleaner Machines

Hardwood floor cleaning machines are able to get out tough stuck-on grime, grout haze, and dirt, and some models can even kill 99 percent of bacteria and germs. To narrow down the top hardwood floor cleaner machines on the market, we searched for functionality, ease of use, and versatility for a variety of cleaning tasks. 

We tested a combination of 10 wet/dry mop and vacuums, steam floor cleaners, robotic vacuums, spin vacuums, and classic vacuums. The wet/dry mops and vacuums were convenient for all-in-one cleaning, while the steam mops, spin mops, and regular vacuums tackled task-specific mopping or vacuuming. 

We wanted to see how well each machine could perform, so we put them through a series of tests. We rated vacuum-and-mop combos on how well they could suction wet and dry messes and remove dried-on food. We used steam mops, spin mops, and robotic mops to clean our floors from regular dirt, dried-on marinara sauce, and sticky dried-on Pepsi. To test vacuums, we suctioned up everyday dirt and littered our floors with rice, flour, and M&Ms to test cleaning power. 

We kept track of the results in a rubric, rating each hardwood floor cleaner machine on a scale of 1 to 4 based on ease of use, efficiency, assembly, and ability to clear stuck-on messes. 

Testing Stats
Products tested 8
Hours spent testing 20
Tests performed12
Price range$100 to $500

What to Consider When Choosing a Hardwood Floor Cleaner Machine

Manufacturers offer an abundance of viable options for machines that preserve and clean hardwood floors. Some models provide wet-mopping as well as vacuum-suctioning actions to produce spotless results. Others use only dry-suction vacuuming. Some utilize rotating mopheads that perform a scrubbing action.

Robot floor-cleaning machines offer cutting-edge technology to automate household chores and allow users to clean their floors remotely. According to Angela Brown, host of the Ask a House Cleaner show, “When selecting an electric mop, it’s a good idea to try it out in-store if possible or read user reviews to gauge how easy it is to use and whether it meets your specific needs. Ultimately, prioritize safety and comfort to make the cleaning process more manageable.”

Read on for information regarding the various types, sizes, weights, power sources, and cleaning functions of high-quality hardwood floor cleaner machines available on today’s market.

Type

Hardwood floors exude a feeling of natural warmth in a home. Diverse types of hardwood floor cleaner machines function in various ways to keep floors clean and lustrous. Here is an overview of several types.

  • Standard vacuums employ suction to lift soil and debris from floor surfaces, but they do not use water or cleaning solutions.
  • Wet/dry vacuums dispense cleaning solution dissolved in water followed by suctioning action to lift the soil and the dirty water from the floor.
  • Robotic vacuums and mops move automatically throughout the home, performing both wet-mopping actions and vacuuming in response to remote controls, apps, or voice commands.
  • Steam mops contain heating elements that heat water to produce pressurized steam, eliminating the need for cleaning solutions or chemicals.
  • Spin mops dispense cleaning solution onto floors and scrub the surface with rotating pads on dual spinning mopheads.

Corded vs. Cordless

Although most hardwood floor cleaner machines operate on corded electricity from household outlets, the cordless models offer convenience and easy maneuvering. Cordless machines operate on power from rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Robotic floor cleaner machines and some cordless upright models include recharging docks for storing the units and recharging the batteries.

Many corded hardwood floor cleaner machines feature cords from 20 to 25 feet long. The long cords allow users to navigate around furniture and access hard-to-reach corners.

Both types of floor cleaners perform well and display specific advantages. Corded models provide greater suction power; cordless ones tend to be lighter in weight and are more portable. Users of corded machines never need to worry about recharging times and runtimes; a cordless unit can reach places far from any power outlet. 

Power and Runtime 

The power that runs corded floor cleaner machines derives from regular 110-volt household electricity. Cordless machines typically run on lithium-ion batteries, and they include specialized recharging docks designed to recharge them safely without mishap. 

Runtimes for fully charged batteries vary from one machine to another. Typically, a 36-volt lithium-ion battery produces 30 minutes of runtime for an upright floor cleaner machine. Alternatively, a 2,600-milliampere-hour lithium-ion battery in a robotic floor cleaner machine usually delivers 120 minutes of runtime.

Lithium-ion batteries are environmentally safe, and they are quick to recharge. However, deterioration over time results in a quicker discharge of power, causing decreased runtime.

Cleaning Settings 

Many of the floor cleaner machines that work well for hardwood floors also function on carpets and rugs. Users can adjust the settings for carpeted or hardwood surfaces.

Brush rollers perform a vital role in cleaning carpets, but they may scratch hardwood flooring. With diverse surfaces in mind, engineers design switching systems to activate or deactivate the rotating brushes. With the flip of a switch, users can change from the hard-floor setting to the carpet setting, activating the brushes for carpet and rugs and then retracting them when moving to hardwood floors. 

A steam cleaner employs steam from heated water to provide natural cleaning with zero chemicals from cleaning solutions. This type of floor cleaner machine offers low, medium, and high settings to regulate the amount of steam pressure released onto the floor surface. 

Mop/Brush Head

The effectiveness of many hardwood floor cleaner machines derives from their ability to perform a wet-mopping function while simultaneously removing the dirty water (along with soil and debris) via a vacuum-suctioning action. 

For the wet-mopping portion of the job, floor cleaner machines include mopheads with removable pads. Some mop pads are smooth and soft, while others provide texture for scrubbing action. The disposable pads can be replaced when they become fully saturated with dirt and debris.

As an alternative to mop pads, some machines feature nylon and microfiber brushes for the wet-mopping function. Users will want to avoid using metal brush heads on wood floors as they may scratch the surface. 

For a scrubbing action, some machines offer dual spinning mopheads with pads. Due to their rapid rotations, the mopheads scrub hardwood floors, removing sticky messes and leaving behind a shiny surface appearance.

Tank Capacity 

Hardwood floor cleaner machines that perform wet-mopping functions include water tanks. Liquid cleaning solution mixed with water goes into the clean-water tank. The machines dispense the clean water onto the floor and, in most cases, suction it up with the vacuuming function. 

The used, dirty water is funneled into a separate tank to keep it from contaminating the clean water. Users must empty the dirty-water tank when it becomes full. Water tanks in wet-mopping machines typically hold up to 28 ounces of water.

Some machines utilize disposable mop pads to absorb the dirty water instead. Other machines forgo water altogether, spraying undiluted liquid cleaning solution onto the floor and absorbing it in the mop pads. Standard vacuum cleaners rely on air filters for trapping dirt and debris rather than water tanks or pads.

Weight and Maneuverability

Lightweight hardwood floor cleaning machines offer convenience, portability, and easy maneuvering. Typically, cordless machines weigh less than corded ones. In a survey of available options, corded electric hardwood floor cleaner machines range in weight from about 9 to 14 pounds while cordless models weigh from about 5 to 11.5 pounds.

In addition to the lighter weight, floor cleaner machines powered by rechargeable batteries offer enhanced maneuverability because they don’t have cords. Many users prefer to eliminate the hassle of tethering to an electrical outlet and manipulating a cord while cleaning. However, some corded machines provide increased maneuverability by offering long cords of 20 to 25 feet, allowing users to reach areas far away from electrical outlets.

Several available hardwood floor cleaner machines feature swivel steering systems. This feature facilitates maneuvering the machines around and under furniture, reaching into corners and along baseboards for thorough cleaning results.

Accessories/Attachments

An essential shopping consideration involves the number and types of accessories and attachments included with various hardwood floor cleaner machines. These add-ons contribute to the functionality and versatility of the machines.

Some models include liquid cleaning solution along with replacement mop pads in both smooth and textured varieties. Disposable pads accompany some machines, while others utilize washable mop pads. Additionally, some models include nylon and microfiber brushes to clean hardwood floors.

A high-quality vacuum cleaner includes a crevice tool for cleaning narrow places as well as an extension wand for reaching ceilings, walls, and light fixtures. It also features a portable, detachable-pod design that facilitates cleaning stairs and other above-floor surfaces.

FAQs

Cleaning, sanitizing, and bringing out the luster of hardwood floors can pay off in preserving the value these floors add to a home. The answers to the following common questions might be helpful when beginning to use a new hardwood floor cleaner machine.

Q. Does my hardwood floor require a specific cleaner? 

Yes. Use a pH-neutral cleaner formulated for sealed hardwood floors. Do not use a cleaner made for vinyl or tile floors.

Q. Can a vacuum scratch hardwood floors?

It is possible for stiff rotating brushes to scratch hardwood floors. In many machines, the brushes that work well on carpet can be retracted or shut off by flipping a switch when the machine moves to hardwood flooring.

Q. How often should I vacuum hardwood floors?

The answer to this question depends on traffic volume and usage. In general, hardwood floors should be vacuumed at least once each week.

Q. How often should I clean my hardwood floors?

Wet mop hardwood floors with appropriate cleaning solution every 1 to 2 months. Increase or decrease frequency depending on traffic and usage. 

Meet the Tester

Katie Barton has over 10 years of experience in product writing, has tested dozens of cleaning products, and has authored hundreds of articles for major media outlets. Her cleaning and organizing advice has been featured on GOBankingRates, Realtor.com, Yahoo!, Cabin Life, and more. She takes an unbiased approach to product testing, using each product multiple times or for several days/weeks to determine efficacy. Her goal is to help readers decide which products are worth their hard-earned money and which fall flat.

The post The Best Hardwood Floor Cleaner Machines, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
157851
The Best Zero-Gravity Chairs for Ultimate Relaxation, Tested https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-zero-gravity-chair/ Thu, 03 Dec 2020 07:22:30 +0000 Relax and release tension in one of these recommendations for the best zero gravity chair, designed to evenly distribute body weight and support the spine.

The post The Best Zero-Gravity Chairs for Ultimate Relaxation, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
Zero-gravity chairs balance body weight to relieve muscle tension while providing a sense of weightlessness. NASA initially designed them to protect astronauts’ bodies from gravitational force during launch, but today, they’re one of the most popular outdoor lounge chairs. The Bob Vila test team tackled the tough task of chilling on various best-selling models, and we found a favorite. The Portal Elite Mesh Zero-Gravity Lounger took top honors thanks to its wide width, padded seat, and mesh back. 

Zero-gravity chairs offer exceptional support, help reduce stress, maintain neutral spine alignment, and promote circulation. Read on to learn more about these loungers and find out how the following models earned a spot in our lineup of the best zero-gravity chairs.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Portal Elite Mesh Zero-Gravity Lounger
    Jump to Review
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Amazon Basics Zero-Gravity Chair
    Jump to Review
  3. UPGRADE PICK: Timber Ridge Zero-Gravity Oversized Recliner
    Jump to Review
  4. BEST CUSHION SET: Jtangl Zero-Gravity Chairs With Cushions
    Jump to Review 
  5. BEST PADDED SET: Ever Advanced Oversize XL Zero-Gravity Recliners
    Jump to Review 
  6. BEST COLOR SELECTION: Best Choice Products Zero-Gravity Chair
    Jump to Review
  7. BEST ROCKING: Outsunny Folding Zero-Gravity Reclining Rocker
    Jump to Review 
Timber Ridge blue and gray zero gravity chair on a green lawn
Photo: Beth Cranston for Bob Vila

How We Tested the Best Zero-Gravity Chairs

Selecting zero-gravity chairs for testing wasn’t as easy as you might think. We wanted to try out nearly every chair we researched, so we had to narrow the list to models with the best ratings and customer reviews. To get a well-rounded group, we selected chairs with diverse features, including padding, breathable fabric, increased weight capacity, and overall size. We also considered the cost.

Testing was challenging. It required lounging on the chairs for hours over several weeks while noting how comfortable they were. We did things like read books and sunbathe to pass the time. 

We noted how easy it was to set up these folding chairs and whether any assembly was necessary. We also documented overall durability, build quality, and portability. We rated each chair based on a rubric—the better it performed on a test or assessment, the higher the points it earned. After testing, we averaged the points to determine our top pick and categorize the chairs by their best use.

While we enjoyed testing these chairs, one thing all the testers agreed on was that manufacturers should include straps or locks to secure the chairs when folded. Carrying a 20-plus-pound chair would be easier if it didn’t keep opening. Also, we’d love for them to consider adding a beverage tray or holder to all zero-gravity chairs. Most have them, but if they don’t, they’re truly missed. 

Testing Stats
Products tested 10
Time spent testing Several weeks
Tests performed4
Price range$65 to $135

Our Top Picks

Whether you’re looking for a camping chair to keep your feet up and away from chiggers or a relaxing chair for a casual living room, you’ll find a zero-gravity lounger on this list to suit your needs. 

Portal Elite Mesh Zero-Gravity Lounger

 Portal Elite Mesh Zero-Gravity Lounger on white background
Photo: Amazon

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.8/5; Comfort 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

  • Material: Steel, mesh, oxford polyester, wood
  • Weight capacity: 350 pounds
  • Accessories: Attached side tray, adjustable head/lumbar pillow

What We Like

  • Comfortable seat, mesh back, and sliding head/lumbar pillow
  • Side tray folds in for storage and easy transport
  • Overall excellent value with a thoughtful design

What We Don’t Like

  • On the heavy side at 24 pounds

We used this chair before and after an interstate move, and each moment we spent in it felt like a gift! Its wide seat, mesh back, and sliding head/lumbar pillow are supremely comfortable, and its reclining mechanism is smooth and easy to use. Despite leaving it on our deck during three thunderstorms (one with hail!) and dropping it on a cement pad several times, the powder-coated steel frame and breathable mesh backing on this chair remain in excellent condition. 

This lounge chair from Portal comes ready to use right out of the box, and unlike some other options we tested, its side table folds in and stays attached during transport and storage. It is on the heavier side at 24 pounds, which adds to its stability but detracts from its portability. Still, once you get this Portal chair where it’s going, you’ll be glad you made the effort. Though almost all zero-gravity chairs claim a 170-degree recline, the experience of lying down in this one felt the best to all five of our testers. 

Get the Portal zero-gravity chair at Amazon.

Best Bang for the Buck

Amazon Basics Zero-Gravity Chair

 Amazon Basics Zero-Gravity Chair on white background
Photo: Amazon

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.8/5; Comfort 5/5; Durability 4.8/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs

  • Material: Powder-coated carbon steel, Texteline polyester mesh
  • Weight capacity: Up to 300 pounds
  • Accessories: Adjustable pillow

What We Like

  • Made from hard-wearing, weather-resistant fabric 
  • A padded headrest pillow adds to the comfort level 
  • Supports up to 300 pounds and offers very good value for money

What We Don’t Like

  • Does not come with extra features

Enjoy the weightless feeling a zero-gravity reclining chair offers without spending a lot. The Amazon Basics zero-gravity lawn chair features a steel frame alloyed with other elements to improve strength and durability. We found its mesh fabric to be both strong and breathable, which is crucial for spending time in hot, humid weather. 

The support pillow was a bonus, but it tended to slip downward if we sat up straight. It wasn’t hard to slide back up, though, so it’s a small price to pay for the comfort this affordable chair offers. It comes in a neutral beige tone, so it fits in with virtually any outdoor decor, and we found it easy to push the chair into the reclining position that suited our mood. The under-handle locks (one on each side) are intuitive and easy to flip down just by feel. 

This Amazon Basics zero-gravity chair doesn’t come with many bells and whistles—we would have liked a cup holder for a beverage. Still, it’s built from quality materials, and it weathered blistering sun, high winds, and rain without showing any signs of damage or fading. Plus, it folds easily, and at 17.8 pounds, it’s easy to transport around the yard. 

Get the Amazon Basics zero-gravity chair at Amazon.

Upgrade Pick

Timber Ridge Zero-Gravity Oversized Recliner

 Timber Ridge Zero-Gravity Oversized Recliner on white background
Photo: Amazon

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Comfort 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.7/5

Product Specs

  • Material: Alloy steel, oxford polyester
  • Weight capacity: 350 pounds
  • Accessories: Attached side tray, adjustable head/lumbar pillow

What We Like

  • Durable frame and sturdy build
  • Chair padding and pillow provide excellent support
  • Smooth functioning adjustments

What We Don’t Like

  • A bit more expensive than similar products

The Timber Ridge zero-gravity chair earned our Upgrade Pick for its durable construction, supersmooth functionality, and exceptionally comfortable 170-degree recline. It’s a bit more expensive than some of our other picks, but we think it’s worth it. With a steel frame and a resilient oxford polyester seat and backrest, this sturdy chair supports up to 350 pounds. It held nearly still when we rocked vigorously from side to side and still worked perfectly after we let it fall—both open and closed—-several times on concrete.

We liked how effortlessly we could adjust all parts of the chair to open and close, lock the sitting position, and move the sitting position. It never felt too loose or too stiff. Best of all, it offered the right amount of comfort and support. It was comfortable in every position, particularly when completely opened. We especially liked the versatility of the adjustable pillow. It can slide into place as a headrest, neckrest, or lumbar support.

Get the Timber Ridge zero-gravity chair at Amazon

Best Cushion Set

Jtangl Zero-Gravity Chairs With Cushions

 Jtangl Zero-Gravity Chairs With Cushions on concrete patio
Photo: Wayfair

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.3/5; Comfort 5/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

  • Material: Metal, polyester
  • Weight capacity: 440 pounds
  • Accessories: Removable cushion, small side tray

What We Like

  • Comfortable padded cushions and adjustable pillows
  • Supports up to 440 pounds 
  • Durable and well made

What We Don’t Like

  • Locking mechanisms are slightly difficult to engage

We found Jtangl’s zero-gravity chairs very relaxing, and much of that was due to the cushions and the adjustable headrests, which make a huge difference in comfort level. These heavy-duty chairs are designed to support up to 440 pounds, although we didn’t push them that far. Four people tested these chairs, including some teens who quickly claimed them as their favorite outdoor lounging spots.

While the cushions are super comfy, in temps upwards of 90 degrees Fahrenheit, they seemed to retain a bit too much heat. When it got that hot, we preferred lounging on the chairs without the cushions.

The locking mechanisms held the chairs in the desired position, but they were a little difficult to push into place. Maybe they’ll loosen up a bit with use. After a couple of weeks of being outdoors in the weather, we thought we could see a dot of rust forming on one of the chairs. It was very small and limited in size, but it might indicate that these chairs will last longer if they’re kept out of direct rain. 

At 19 pounds, the Jtangl zero-gravity chair set is light enough to carry short distances but too heavy to carry more than a quarter of a mile or so unless you’re especially fit. Overall, they’re durable and well made and would be a great addition to any outdoor entertainment furniture collection. 

Get the Jtangl zero-gravity chairs at Wayfair.

Best Padded Set

Ever Advanced Oversize XL Zero-Gravity Recliners

 Ever Advanced Oversize XL Zero-Gravity Recliners on white background
Photo: Amazon

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Comfort 4.5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

  • Material: Aluminum, polyester
  • Weight capacity: 350 pounds
  • Accessories: Headrest, side tray

What We Like

  • Zero setup required; arrives ready to go
  • Pop-out drink tray is a nice touch
  • Folds up easily and neatly

What We Don’t Like

  • Packaging was sparse; no instructions 

Testing this double zero-gravity chair set from Ever Advanced couldn’t have been simpler. They are fully assembled right out of the box, so there was zero setup required (which we loved). The aluminum frame felt sturdy enough to support the 350-pound capacity, yet at just under 20 pounds, it was still lightweight enough to carry around in search of a favorite lounge spot.

We especially appreciated the cushioned headrest that easily slides up and down the back of the chair to adjust to different user heights. Of course, we also enjoyed the slide-out cup holder tray, which was so sturdy that, even while getting in and out of the chair, our drink didn’t wobble or spill. Impressive!

We tested this set at home with four other family members. One downside we noticed was that shorter users seemed to struggle with reclining the chair fully without help. Taller users had no issue with this, perhaps because the extra-large size of the chairs requires a little more leverage from longer legs. That said, it didn’t feel like much of a big deal, and we really liked the roomier feel of the oversize seat. Another slight disappointment was that the delivery packaging was a little sparse, and despite not really needing any instructions, it would have been nice to have something to show us how to slide out the cup holder tray. 

Get the Ever Advanced zero-gravity chairs at Amazon

Best Color Selection

Best Choice Products Zero-Gravity Chair

 Best Choice Products Zero-Gravity Chair on white background
Photo: Amazon

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.8/5; Comfort 5/5; Durability 4.8/5; Value 4.8/5

Product Specs 

  • Material: Steel, polyester
  • Weight capacity: 300 pounds
  • Accessories: Adjustable headrest, side tray

What We Like

  • Wide, fully padded seat for extra comfort
  • Detachable side table is convenient
  • Large array of color options

What We Don’t Like

  • Padding does not breathe as well as mesh

The Best Choice Products zero-gravity patio chair we tested came in so many color combinations, we had a tough time choosing the hue we wanted. We eventually settled on a pretty purple/violet combo that adds a splash of welcome color. With more than 30 color options, neutral colors included, there’s a good chance you’ll find one that enhances your outdoor area. 

Like other models we tested, the Best Choice chair opens easily—once you know the technique—and it’s very stable. The seat is relatively wide at 24 inches across, and the armrests are 29 inches apart, making it more comfortable for a wider range of users. 

The full-body padding on this zero-gravity outdoor chair makes it comfortable, but it doesn’t breathe as well as plain mesh. Still, the padding is made from polyester, which breathes better than high-density foam. This is a great zero-gravity chair recliner, but it could make the user feel a little sweaty in sweltering temps. 

Get the Best Choice Products zero-gravity chair at Amazon or The Home Depot

Best Rocking

Outsunny Folding Zero-Gravity Reclining Rocker

 Outsunny Folding Zero-Gravity Reclining Rocker on white background
Photo: Amazon

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3/5; Comfort 4/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.2/5

Product Specs 

  • Material: Steel, Texteline polyester mesh
  • Weight capacity: 265 pounds
  • Accessories: Detachable side tray

What We Like

  • Neck pillow is moveable and supportive
  • Takes up little space when folded
  • Sturdy frame for weather-resistant durability

What We Don’t Like

  • Taller people may find it uncomfortable

The Outsunny chair brings the familiar comfort of a rocker outdoors with the ergonomic bonus of zero-gravity reclining function. This durable dual-function chair withstood days of heat and high winds and barely budged. Its powder-coated steel frame was minorly scratched each time we knocked it over on concrete and functioned just as well after the fall. We especially appreciated its sturdy locking mechanism—we could tell it wasn’t going to close up on us.

When we weren’t testing its build quality, we liked the adjustable removable neck pillow and the overall ease of gliding the chair into and out of reclining positions. The rocking option on this chair is a nice touch, and we found that it added to the overall comfort of the chair. However, having that extra option makes this chair more cumbersome to set up, fold up, and transport. The rocking base doesn’t lock into place when folded either, so it can open when you’re moving it. And while some of us liked the footrest, it hit taller testers in the ankles.

Overall, though, we think this is a great zero-gravity recliner for those who want to bring the coziness of a rocker outside.

Get the Outsunny zero-gravity chair at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Jump to Our Top Picks

What to Consider When Choosing a Zero-Gravity Chair

At their best, zero-gravity chairs are comfortable, durable, and conducive to leaving you feeling like you just got a massage. Look for features that suit your specific preferences and needs, such as size, weight capacity, materials, and other safety and convenience features.

Sizes and Dimensions

You can choose from standard-size or oversize zero-gravity chairs depending on your length, width, and weight-capacity requirements. Many manufacturers offer oversize models to accommodate users needing a longer chair and wider seat for comfort.

Generally, a standard-size zero-gravity chair is about 43 inches high by 25 inches wide by 36 inches deep. An oversize chair may measure around 45 inches high by 29 inches wide by 36 inches deep. Oversize chairs offer wider seats and greater weight-bearing capacity. 

When storing and transporting your zero-gravity chair, take note of its weight and folded dimensions, too. Check out this Homal zero-gravity chair review to learn how to maneuver your new chair. 

Material

Zero-gravity chairs feature fabric seats suspended from metal frames by cords or bungees. Most zero-gravity chairs have metal frames. Some are alloy steel, which means that other elements are added to the steel for extra strength and resistance to corrosion. Others are aluminum, which makes them lighter and easier to carry.

Because zero-gravity chairs are generally intended for outdoor use, many feature breathable, weather-resistant fabric seats. Some also offer an ultraviolet-resistant coating to deter sun fading. In some cases, padded seats, usually polyester, provide additional comfort.

Comfort and Support

Zero-gravity chairs are designed to balance your weight as you recline while simultaneously raising the level of your feet. You cannot lie on your stomach in a zero-gravity chair or lie completely flat. Instead, a zero-gravity chair’s design allows you to semi-recline, similar to how you might in a hammock—but without the risk of rolling out. 

For additional comfort, some zero-gravity chairs feature padded seats or head pillows in supportive high-density foam that can be detached and used for lumbar support. Most of these chairs are stable and resemble reclining lawn chairs, but you can also find zero-gravity rocking chairs that offer the same design but come on a rocking base. 

You can also purchase a zero-gravity massage chair, but that’s in a whole different class. That chair provides mechanical massage components, is meant for indoor use, and can cost over $1,000. 

Side Tray and Cup Holder

For added convenience, many zero-gravity chairs feature side trays to help you keep your drinks, snacks, and electronic devices handy while you relax. Many are detachable, and most provide at least one cup holder, if not two. Made from molded plastic, these trays are weather-resistant and fold compactly for storage or transport. These are especially beneficial if you don’t want to bother with a patio side table or if you use your zero-gravity chair in a smaller area.

Canopy

If sun protection is important, consider a zero-gravity chair with a canopy. If you plan to use your zero-gravity chair at the beach or other sunny spots, a canopy could be a welcome feature to keep you comfortable and sunburn-free.

Many zero-gravity chair canopies offer adjustable positioning so you can optimize your shade. Additionally, you can fold the canopy back out of the way when you don’t want to use it.

Locking Mechanism

A zero-gravity chair uses your body weight to tilt backward as you recline in a balanced position. This relieves pressure points along your spine and lets your entire body relax to relieve stress.

Most zero-gravity chairs feature locking systems that allow you to maintain your favorite position. Generally, the locking mechanism is operated by a knob or lever under the armrest. This means you can recline in comfort and lock or unlock the chair with a quick and easy movement of your hand.

You can select any position from upright to reclining to suit your personal preference. The arc of movement can range from 0 to 170 degrees. Because of the zero-gravity chair’s tilting and balancing action, having a proper locking system can provide additional safety. When you recline to your optimally comfortable position, simply engage the lock to rest securely and safely.

Weight Capacity

Standard-size zero-gravity chairs typically support up to 200 or 250 pounds, while an oversize chair can bear 350 to 400 pounds. When shopping for your perfect zero-gravity chair, always be sure to check its weight capacity specifications.

The chair’s weight capacity is largely determined by the elastic cord system or bungees that attach the fabric seat to its metal frame. For increased load-bearing capacity, oversize chairs are constructed with sturdy frames, strong fabric seats, and powerful corded suspension systems that ensure safe usage with increased weight capacity.

Portability

You may be looking for a zero-gravity chair that you can easily bring with you to the beach, sporting events, camping trips, or other outdoor gatherings.

Most zero-gravity chairs fold for portability and storage. Look for the folded dimensions specified in product descriptions to determine how much space they will take up when stored or packed.

In addition to compact folded dimensions, you may want to select a lightweight zero-gravity chair for easy transport. While most zero-gravity chairs weigh 15 to 22 pounds, some lightweight models weigh as little as 11 pounds.

FAQs

Zero-gravity chairs are designed for comfort, portability, and weather-resistant outdoor use. At first glance, the design may appear unusual, but these chairs offer distinct benefits. No matter which style or color you choose, store it indoors when not in use to prevent rusting

Q. How do zero-gravity chairs work?

As you recline in a zero-gravity chair, your body weight is evenly distributed along the chair’s length, relieving pressure points, stress, and tension.

Q. How do you sit in a zero-gravity chair?

You can start in an upright position, then lean back to recline in a position that is balanced by your body weight. Engage the locking mechanism (found under the armrests) to stabilize the chair until you’re ready to change positions. 

Q. Are zero-gravity chairs good for your back?

Because zero-gravity chairs are inspired by the NASA-designed seating that helps astronauts endure the gravitational force of takeoff, you can understand why they provide beneficial support for your back. The reclining position distributes your weight to relieve tension and takes pressure off your spine, which can help relieve back pain.

Q. Can you sleep in a zero-gravity chair?

You may be so relaxed in a zero-gravity chair that you fall peacefully asleep. However, the majority don’t offer deep padding like indoor power recliners or reclining sofas, and you cannot lie on your stomach or stretch out flat in a zero-gravity chair.

Q. What is the difference between a zero-gravity chair and an anti-gravity chair?

Only the name. While both balance body weight and offer a feeling of weightlessness, neither is a true no-gravity chair. 

Meet the Testers

Stephanie Cronk is the executive commerce editor at BobVila.com. In addition to managing all product reviews for the outlet, she’s also an avid DIYer. Stephanie is dedicated to making sure readers get the most useful and accurate information before making purchase decisions. 

Beth Cranston is an editor and writer who likes to find a product’s unique features that help make everyday life a little easier and more enjoyable.

Michelle Larson is an editor and writer who loves product testing so she can invest in a quality item once rather than buy something subpar twice.

Glenda Taylor is a contractor, product tester, and writer focusing primarily on construction and DIY tools.

Paul Rankin started writing for BobVila.com in 2021, focusing on buyer’s guides for the full range of tools, furniture, DIY supplies, and home and garden products that the Bob Vila team reviews.

Additional research was provided by Carol Benton.

The post The Best Zero-Gravity Chairs for Ultimate Relaxation, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
132568
The 19 Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-place-to-buy-outdoor-plants-online/ Thu, 27 May 2021 21:52:42 +0000 https://www.bobvila.com/articles/?p=163201 The best places to buy outdoor plants online from vegetables to perennials include The Home Depot, Lowe's, Tractor Supply, and Brighter Blooms.

The post The 19 Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
Gardening provides an enjoyable outlet for creativity and imagination. It’s also good exercise—and often hard work. Gardeners dream of each new season, and they delight in seeing their gardens take shape over the years. There’s always work to do, and there are always spaces to fill with new plants. But a gorgeous landscape or a colorful display of textures and shapes makes the work worthwhile.

Selecting the right plants can be challenging. Gardeners will want to consider their agricultural zones, soil conditions, sunlight, rainfall, space constraints, and a host of other factors when selecting plants. The best places to buy outdoor plants online offer astoundingly large inventories of plants, along with informative recommendations to make the most appropriate plant choices. 

Take advantage of this modern-day avenue for selecting and purchasing live plants. With innovative shipping methods and customer satisfaction guarantees, online nurseries ensure successful results for thriving plants.

1. The Home Depot

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: The Home Depot
Photo: homedepot.com

Price Range: $ to $$$ 
Our Top Picks: Blue Pacific Juniper Evergreen Groundcover Plant for $20.34, Dark Purple Reblooming Lilac Shrub for $29.97, or Eclipse Hydrangea Shrub for $38.98.

Step inside the garden center at The Home Depot and you’ll find perennials, annuals, grasses, fruits and vegetables, bushes and trees, ground cover, and more. If you can’t get there in person—or if you prefer the convenience of shopping online—the retailer has plenty of plants and seeds available for online ordering and delivery.

The Home Depot lets you filter your search by specific features that are important to your yard, whether you’re looking for plants that are low maintenance, dog- and cat-safe, or butterfly attracting. While you’re shopping for outdoor plants and/or seeds, you can also snag everything else you’ll need for your garden, from soil to fertilizer to gardening tools. It’s a one-stop shop.

Shop outdoor plants at The Home Depot.

2. Lowe’s

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Lowe’s
Photo: lowes.com

Price Range: $ to $$$ 
Our Top Picks: Fire Ball Burning Bush for $39.56, Summer Blue Hydrangea for $51.98, or Multicolor Hibiscus Bush Flowering Shrub for $41.33.

Lowe’s makes shopping for outdoor plants online easy. You can browse thousands of plants, bulbs, and seeds, whether you’re looking for dogwood trees, rose bushes, or marigolds. To help you find what you’re looking for, the plants are broken up into detailed categories, like drought-tolerant, safer for pets, light and water requirements, zones, and even growth rate. 

Shop outdoor plants at Lowe’s.

3. Tractor Supply Co.

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Tractor Supply Co.
Photo: tractorsupply.com

Price Range: $ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Red Diamond Loropetalum Shrub for $38.24, Green Giant Arborvitae for $23.99, or Drift Peach Rose for $38.24.

Tractor Supply Co. is a haven of all things lawn and garden—including a bevy of outdoor plants. You can browse flowers, ground cover plants, edible plants, trees, bushes, vines, and climbing plants. The retailer also carries tons of seeds, whether you’re looking to plant fruits and vegetables or annuals and perennials.

You can sort your results by features like drought-tolerant or disease-resistant along with sun tolerance or bloom color. Tractor Supply Co. also has a whole line of organic plants, if that’s important to you. You can have your plants delivered to your home—there’s even a same-day delivery option for eligible products—or opt for curbside pickup at your nearest Tractor Supply Co. location.

Shop outdoor plants at Tractor Supply Co.

4. Burpee

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Burpee
Photo: burpee.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$ 
Our Top Picks: Lemon Basil—200 seeds for $4.45 or plant for $24.96, Baby Cherry Tomatoes—25 seeds for $7.95 or plant for $24.96, or Hibiscus, Pink Swirl for $15.95.

Burpee began selling seeds from a mail-order catalog in 1881. Now the largest seed company in the world, it has grown to include live plants, bare roots, and bulbs alongside its massive seed selection.

Burpee offers annual and perennial flowering plants, herbs, vegetables, and fruit-bearing shrubs and trees. It also features heirloom varieties of flowers and vegetables, as well as vegetable seeds and plants that are certified organic. To say its inventory is extensive would be an understatement. On Burpee’s website, gardeners can access instructional how-to videos as well as informative articles on a plethora of gardening topics, problems, and solutions. Keep in mind the plants’ availability varies per season.

Shop outdoor plants at Burpee.

5. Bluestone Perennials

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Bluestone Perennials
Photo: bluestoneperennials.com

Price Range: $ to $$$ 
Our Top Picks: Hibiscus Syriacus Purple Pillar for $22.95, Hydrangea Wee White for $24.95, or Rudbeckia Indian Summer for $13.95.

Bluestone Perennials is a family-owned business based in Madison, Ohio, best known for flowering perennials and shrubs. It also features a large selection of chrysanthemums, ornamental grasses, and flowering ground covers. Its inventory exceeds 1,000 plant varieties.

The growers at Bluestone Perennials sow their plants in 100 percent biodegradable pots made from coconut husk fibers. Customers receive their plants in these breathable pots and plant them directly in the ground—pot and all. Over time, the pots become part of the soil, eliminating the need to disturb the plants by transplanting them. Plants develop robust root systems in plantable and breathable pots, allowing them to get off to a healthy start in their new garden homes. 

Shop outdoor plants at Bluestone Perennials.

6. Brighter Blooms

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Brighter Blooms
Photo: brighterblooms.com

Price Range: $ to $$$ 
Our Top Picks: Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae Tree for $20.99, Little Miss Figgy Fig Tree for $114.99, or Fragrant Tea Olive Shrub—$31.99.

It might seem odd to purchase a living tree from an online source, but Brighter Blooms offers a vast selection of fruit, flowering, evergreen, and shade trees in an enormous array of tree varieties. Customers can select a shipment of trees between 2 to 3 feet tall and 6 to 7 feet tall. 

Brighter Blooms’ website also offers a wealth of information, ideas, and suggestions for gardeners. Based on climate, soil, and space considerations, the growers guide customers to select plants that will thrive in their environments. With detailed instructions for planting, pruning, watering, and caring for plants, Brighter Blooms provides the necessary information for even beginning gardeners to succeed.

The company ships from its nursery in Fort Mill, South Carolina, and is not open to the public. Each plant is shipped to the customer with a 30-Day Happy and Healthy Guarantee. 

Shop outdoor plants at Brighter Blooms.

7. Etsy

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Etsy
Photo: etsy.com

Price Range: $ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Cherry Brandy Black Eyed Susan for $18.00, Lemongrass Plants (2-Pack) for $19.97, or Giant Ball Onion Allium for $3.99.

Esty is a marketplace for creative vendors who produce unique, handcrafted items for global sales and distribution. The creativity that goes into plant cultivation and propagation is not overlooked on Etsy, which has an abundance of live plants available. 

You can search Etsy for live plants by name or by type. Sellers offer various annual and perennial flowering plants, shrubs, and vegetable bedding plants. Gardeners may purchase flowering and fruit trees as cuttings, bare roots, or seedlings. Numerous varieties of ornamental grasses and vines round out the plethora of live outdoor plant options on Etsy.

Shop outdoor plants at Etsy.

8. Great Garden Plants

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Great Garden Plants
Photo: greatgardenplants.com

Price Range: $ to $$
Our Top Picks: Drummond’s Pink Creeping Phlox for $14.99, Black Scallop Bugleweed for $15.99, or Dolce ‘Wildberry’ Coral Bells for $14.99.

Great Garden Plants offers perennial shrubs, flowering plants, evergreen trees, and climbing vines for color and foliage. Throughout the website, the growers offer advice for plant selection based on specific needs, such as container plantings, rain gardens, privacy screening, landscape fillers, and a wealth of other gardening objectives.

To ensure that plants thrive, the folks at Great Garden Plants recommend gardeners shop for plants according to the agricultural zones in which they live. The website is replete with information and recommendations regarding various gardening goals and problems. These include small-space considerations, deer resistance, maximizing color, sloping terrains, heat or cold tolerance, wet or dry soils, and more. You’ll get a no-risk 30-day customer satisfaction guarantee for your plants, shipped in amply sized containers. 

Shop outdoor plants at Great Garden Plants.

9. Heirloom Roses

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Heirloom Roses
Photo: heirloomroses.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Sunbelt Plum Perfect for $55, Golden Celebration Roses for $65, or Pretty in Pink Eden Climber for $63.

Growers at Heirloom Roses, located in the Willamette Valley region of Oregon, do not engage in the common practices of grafting or budding to create new plants. Instead, they employ a process known as “own root.” Each plant shipped out to customers is a first-year cutting on its roots, grown from a leaf derived from a mother plant. They are small when they arrive, but gardeners find these plants quickly catch up to grafted roses. 

Although many rose varieties form the basis of Heirloom Roses’ business, the company also offers an array of complementary shrubs. These include flowering perennials like crape myrtle, blueberry bushes, hibiscus, and wisteria. Heirloom Roses does not sell vegetables, trees, grasses, and other types of plants.

Shop outdoor plants at Heirloom Roses.

10. Nature Hills

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Nature Hills
Photo: naturehills.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Meadowlark Forsythia for $49.69, Tiny Monster Geranium for $39.59, or Patriot Blueberry Bush for $39.59.

Claiming to be “America’s Largest Online Plant Nursery,” Nature Hills offers an astounding array of live plants of numerous types and varieties for diverse gardening purposes. The nursery offers shade trees, evergreen trees, fruit, and flowering trees, as well as a large assortment of bushes and shrubs. On a smaller scale, it features numerous varieties of flowering plants—both perennials and annuals. Gardeners may also shop for an array of ornamental grasses, ground covers, and bulbs.

The website is well organized to make plant selection easy. Plants are categorized for multiple features, including flower color, zone hardiness, sun exposure, growth rate, blooming period, height and spread, and more.

Shop outdoor plants at Nature Hills.

11. Spring Hill Nurseries

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Spring Hill Nurseries
Photo: springhillnursery.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Native Milkweed for $32.99, Winter Plum Double Hellebore for $29.99, or Bee Balm Gardenview Scarlet for $39.99.

One of the oldest mail-order garden centers in the U.S., Spring Hill Nurseries has been shipping high-quality plants to gardeners for 172 years. Featuring a large inventory of plant types and varieties, Spring Hill Nurseries offers ornamental trees, flowering vines, shrubs, perennial and annual flowering plants, rose bushes and climbing roses, and bulbs. Its curated collections include plants that work well together to complement or create multiple types of gardens. It does not sell plants for vegetable gardens.

Innovation and improvement remain high priorities for the researchers and horticulturists at Spring Hill Nurseries. They work continuously to ensure their plants perform well in gardens across the U.S. To this end, the Spring Hill team members collaborate with plant breeders and testing agencies as well as botanical gardens and universities. 

Shop outdoor plants at Spring Hill Nurseries.

12. Cactus Limon

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Cactus Limon
Photo: cactuslimon.net

Price Range: $-$$
Our Top Picks: Aloe Vera Medicine Succulent Plant for $15.50, Mammillaria Fraileana Cactus Plant for $10.25, or Euphorbia Tirucalli Fire Stick for $84.50.

Cactus Limon is a small, family-owned business founded 15 years ago and based in California. The owners have been growing cactus and succulent plants as a hobby since childhood. The website offers plant care tips regarding the appropriate light, water, soil, fertilizer, and other conditions for gardeners to enjoy success in growing the plants.

You can order individual plants or collections of succulents or cactus plants. The assorted collections are assembled and intended as giveaway favors for guests at weddings, parties, and conferences. 

Shop outdoor plants at Cactus Limon.

13. Plant by Number

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Plant by Number
Photo: pbndesign.com

Price Range: $-$$$$
Our Top Picks: Property Line (7 plants included) from $415.00, Native Plant Garden (4 plants included) from $195.00, or Small Accent (7 plants included) from $485.00.

Plant by Number has revolutionized the gardening experience with unique predesigned flower bed layouts printed on high-quality landscape fabric. This product streamlines the garden setup process by offering a DIY solution where users can easily position their plants in premarked spots on the fabric. This system simplifies the planting process and ensures precise spacing and arrangement, ultimately enhancing the overall health and visual appeal of the garden.

The “Ready Made” collection from Plant By Number also excels in plant selection. These thoughtfully curated kits provide preplanned flower gardens, eliminating the hard work of choosing and arranging plants that complement each other. Ideal for gardeners who value efficiency and aesthetics, these kits ensure that each plant is well suited to the local climate and soil conditions, optimizing plant health and the overall coherence of the garden. This careful approach to plant selection guarantees that the gardens are easy to maintain and visually stunning.

Shop outdoor plants at Plant by Number. 

14. Logee’s

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Logee’s
Photo: logees.com

Price Range: $-$$$$
Our Top Picks: Begonia ‘Fireworks’ for $14.95, Blood Orange Tree ‘Vaniglia Sanguigno’ for $39.95, or Banana Plant ‘Dwarf Lady Finger’ for $29.95.

Logee’s is a well-known nursery with many tropical and subtropical plants. Established in 1892 as a small greenhouse specializing in citrus and rare plants, the company has expanded to become a comprehensive garden center serving novice and experienced gardeners. Logee’s offers an extensive selection of plants online, including flowering plants, fruiting plants, and aromatic herbs, making it a top choice for those looking to enhance their indoor and outdoor garden spaces.

One of Logee’s standout features is its diverse and high-quality plant selection. The nursery is renowned for its collection of rare and exotic plants, such as citrus trees, passionflowers, and unique foliage plants, that are often difficult to find elsewhere.

Shop outdoor plants at Logee’s.

15. Fast Growing Trees

Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online
Photo: fast-growing-trees.com

Price Range: $-$$$$
Our Top Picks: Meyer Lemon Bush for $60.95, Phenomenal Lavender Plant for $39.95, or Cold Hardy Avocado Tree Florida for $105.95.

Fast Growing Trees is a well-known online nursery that offers a wide range of trees and plants specifically designed for rapid growth. The company serves customers across the United States and takes pride in its diverse selection of species.

The plant selection at Fast Growing Trees is especially noteworthy for its variety and specialization in fast-growing species. Whether a customer needs flowering trees, fruit trees, privacy hedges, or perennials, this online nursery is equipped to cater to a wide spectrum of landscaping needs and preferences. Additionally, they offer an impressive array of houseplants, ensuring that they have something to offer for indoor spaces as well.

Shop outdoor plants at Fast Growing Trees.

16. TyTy Nursery

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online TyTy Nursery
Photo: tytyga.com

Price Range: $-$$$
Our Top Picks: Kwanzan Flowering Cherry Tree from $27.75, Chicago Hardy Fig Tree from $29.75, or Big Ass Blueberry Plant from $32.75.

TyTy Nursery, located in Ty Ty, Georgia, offers a wide range of plants and trees through its online platform. The nursery is known for its diverse inventory, which includes everything from fruit trees to ornamental shrubs, catering to a variety of gardening needs. The nursery’s website boasts a comprehensive selection. It provides extensive details on the care and planting of its offerings, aiming to serve both novice gardeners and seasoned horticulturists.

The plant selection at TyTy Nursery is particularly noted for its extensive variety, featuring rare finds such as Kwanzan cherry trees and a wide range of fig trees. Customers can purchase unique and hard-to-find plants that can enhance any garden space. 

Shop outdoor plants at TyTy Nursery.

17. Great Garden Plants

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Option: Great Garden Plants
Photo: greatgardenplants.com

Price Range: $-$$
Our Top Picks: ‘Ruby Slippers’ Oakleaf Hydrangea for $19.99, ‘Becky’ Shasta Daisy for $13.99, or ‘Opening Act Ultrapink’ Hybrid Phlox for $15.99.

Great Garden Plants specializes in a wide range of garden plants, from perennials and shrubs to evergreens. This company focuses on delivering healthy, garden-ready plants directly to your door. With a promise of a 100 percent risk-free guarantee, the owners strive to provide confidence in their product quality and customer satisfaction. Their user-friendly website aids customers in making informed choices by giving detailed descriptions and care instructions for all their offerings.

Great Garden Plants’ plant selection is extensive and includes best-selling and hard-to-find varieties. They offer various garden plants, including perennials, shrubs, ground covers, grasses, and more, catering to multiple gardening needs and preferences. Their collections are frequently updated to reflect seasonal availability and popularity, ensuring that gardeners can always find something new and suited to their climate and soil conditions. 

Shop outdoor plants at Great Garden Plants.

18. Monrovia

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Monrovia
Photo: monrovia.com

Price Range: $-$$$
Our Top Picks: Thumbelina Leigh English Lavender for $19.99, Dwarf Japanese Garden Juniper from $24.99, or Dwarf Fountain Grass for $49.99.

Monrovia is well known for its commitment to producing high-quality plants that enhance outdoor spaces. As a leading nursery, Monrovia focuses on cultivating the healthiest plants using advanced growing practices, ensuring that gardeners receive sturdy, garden-ready specimens. They feature a vast and diverse plant selection that caters to various gardening needs, offering an extensive range of common and proprietary plants, including colorful annuals, perennials, hardy shrubs, and ornamental trees.

Recently, Monrovia started selling online, but they do not deliver directly to your door. Instead, they deliver to your local garden center for pickup. Although some shoppers may find this a minor inconvenience, the brand offers top-notch plant quality that their customers know and respect. The online selection only includes some of what they sell, but the brand plans to extend its online offerings soon. Keep in mind the available product offerings online and locally vary depending on where you live.

Shop outdoor plants at Monrovia. 

19. Mountain Crest Gardens

The Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online Mountain Crest Gardens
Photo: mountaincrestgardens.com

Price Range: $-$$
Our Top Picks: Sedum Sunsparkler ‘Dream Dazzler’ for $8.49, Sempervivum heuffelii ‘Henri Correvon’ for $5.49, or Carpet Sedum for $4.49.

Mountain Crest Gardens specializes in succulents and is known for its extensive online presence, offering a diverse range of these hardy plants to gardening enthusiasts nationwide. The company is committed to quality and customer service. Its user-friendly website provides detailed care instructions and a wealth of resources for novice and experienced gardeners.

Mountain Crest Gardens offers an impressive selection of succulents, including rare and exotic species, meticulously categorized on its website for easy browsing. It provides everything from individual succulent plants to curated collections and kits, perfect for creating vibrant, low-maintenance gardens. The plant offerings are well suited for a variety of landscaping needs, such as indoor pots, outdoor gardens, and green walls.

Shop outdoor plants at Mountain Crest Gardens.

The post The 19 Best Places to Buy Outdoor Plants Online appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
163201
The 20 Best Sofa Brands for Every Style and Budget https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-sofa-brands/ Sun, 18 Jul 2021 14:37:51 +0000 https://www.bobvila.com/articles/?p=170520 The sofa is the center of family life and a place for relaxation. This collection of the best sofa brands can help you find stylish and durable options.

The post The 20 Best Sofa Brands for Every Style and Budget appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
The best sofa brands help offer us a comfortable spot for the whole household—and potentially guests—to relax, socialize, take naps, read, surf the internet, watch TV, and eat meals or snacks. That’s a lot of responsibility for a single seating purchase. Between the amount of time you spend on the couch and what it costs to replace, the pressure is on when it’s time to buy a new one.

Purchasing a new sofa represents a major investment in comfort and style for the living space. A sofa should be not only attractive and complementary to the decor, but it should be strong, durable, and a place of solace. Good sofa brands offer high-quality construction with sturdy and handsome materials as well as ample opportunities for customizing designs, colors, fabrics, and sizes. So, what is the best quality sofa brand? Ahead, discover the best sofa brands available on the market today.

1. Maiden Home

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Maiden Home
Photo: maidenhome.com

Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: The Sullivan Sofa starting at $2,475; The Dune Sofa starting at $2,725; or The Crosby Sofa starting at $2,175.

Maiden Home is a 21st-century company committed to creating high-quality handcrafted furniture pieces at reasonable prices. It’s one of our recommended American-made furniture brands (read our full guide here). Maiden Home furniture is designed in New York City and handmade to order in North Carolina by skilled craftspeople according to customers’ specifications. Cutting out the retail showroom, Maiden Home takes custom orders online and ships directly from skilled artisans’ workrooms to customers’ homes—often for approximately one-third the price of traditional high-end companies.

The brand offers sectional sofas, modular sofas, and traditional sofa designs in a variety of sizes. Each model includes a broad selection of options for fabric or leather coverings along with numerous options for wood finishes. Simple but elegant, a couch like The Sullivan Sofa is a good example of Maiden Home’s tasteful style. 

Shop Maiden Home sofas at Maiden Home.

2. Lovesac

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Lovesac
Photo: lovesac.com

Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Lovesac 2 Seats + 4 Sides starting at $1,890.00; Lovesac 4 Seats + 5 Sides starting at $3,307.50; or Lovesac 6 Seats + 6 Sides starting at $5,166.00.

Lovesac boasts that it makes the world’s most customizable sofas. Each modular piece of furniture from the brand—which sells online as well as in over 100 showrooms throughout the U.S.—is adaptable to fit into numerous configurations with other pieces. Start with the Lovesac 2 Seats + 4 Sides, a basic two-seater sofa that is possible to build upon. 

Lovesac’s Sactionals are designed to last a lifetime and are easy to alter to user needs. Based on their modular designs and durable materials, the brand’s lounging sofa options may be an ideal choice for family homes with children and pets, or anyone who wants the flexibility to reconfigure their ultracomfortable sofa. Arrange the pieces in whatever layout suits the living space throughout the years, and rest assured that the washable coverings withstand spills and messes. Shoppers can choose from over 175 cover fabric options, ranging from bouclé to leather, but the base fabric of all Sactional inserts is made using recycled plastic bottles (so they’re more sustainable as well as extremely cozy).

Shop Lovesac sofas at Best Buy or Lovesac.

3. Burrow

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Burrow
Photo: burrow.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Block Nomad 5-Seat Corner Sectional starting at $2,999; Range 4-Piece Sectional Lounger starting at $1,819; or Field 3-Piece Sofa starting at $1,499.

Stephen Kuhl and Kabeer Chopra, former classmates from the Wharton School, launched Burrow as a solution to the problems they experienced when purchasing sofas. Lightweight sofas were flimsy and breakable, while high-quality sofas were overly expensive and too heavy. Now, with a direct-to-consumer business model, Burrow offers high-quality, well-designed furniture at prices that will not break the bank. 

The brand’s “couch-in-a-box” products are more than just shrunk-down disassembled sofas. With a focus on quality, the founders essentially reverse engineered luxury sofas into modules that are easy to ship and move (welcome news for renters and apartment dwellers). Since the sofas fit in boxes, the company is able to offer free shipping. This design means full assembly is required, but the sofas are easy to put together and take apart—no tools are needed. Plus, since they’re modular, the layouts are expandable too, so owners can add modules over time as their needs grow. Customizable and with a built-in USB charger, the Burrow Block Nomad 5-Seat Corner Sectional is one we love; in fact, it’s the top sectional sofa in our best couches guide (read our full guide here). 

Shop Burrow sofas at Best Buy or Burrow

4. Floyd

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Floyd
Photo: floydhome.com

Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Sink Down Sectional starting at $2,061.50; Two-Piece Form Sectional starting at $1,484.00; or Magna Preconfigured Sectionals starting at $5,460.00.

Horrified by the amount of disposable furniture that makes its way into landfills every year, Alex O’Dell and Kyle Hoff set about creating a solution to the problem when they founded Floyd in 2013. The journey started with The Floyd Leg, a leg that made it possible to turn any surface material into a table. 

The focus on sustainability and practical, adaptable designs runs through Floyd’s wide range of products. The Detroit-based e-commerce company offers durable sofas and other furniture pieces that people will want to keep for years due to their high-quality construction and sleek designs. The Sink Down Sectional is one of the brand’s classic offerings that will be a living room favorite for years to come. 

Shop Floyd sofas at Floyd.

5. Wayfair Custom Upholstery

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Wayfair Custom Upholstery
Photo: wayfair.com

Price Range: $ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Emilio 90-Inch Upholstered Sofa for $1,449.99; Lucia 92.5-Inch Slipcovered Sofa for $1,779.99; or Kian 2-Piece Slipcovered Sectional for $2,650.00.

One of the world’s largest global e-commerce companies specializing in furniture and home goods, Wayfair also designs and manufactures custom furnishings for your home. Browse styles in sofas, loveseats, sectionals, and sleepers, which are available in a variety of fabric and leather coverings. Not sure which to choose? Shoppers can request free swatches to get a better idea of the material. 

Beyond choosing the fabric, Wayfair Custom Upholstery allows shoppers to choose from a wide variety of furniture styles, colors, and finishes that complement their individual decor tastes. They tend to come at a relatively budget-friendly price too; for example, the Emilio 90-Inch Upholstered Sofa looks trendy but costs less from Wayfair than from some other brands. After construction according to a customer’s specifications, the pieces are shipped directly to the consumer.

Shop Wayfair Custom Upholstery sofas at Wayfair.

6. West Elm

The Best Sofa Brands Option: West Elm
Photo: westelm.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Carlo Mid-Century Sofa starting at $1,399.00; Harmony Sofa starting at $1,529.15; or Harris 2-Piece Bumper Chaise Sectional starting at $2,198.00.

Like its parent company Williams Sonoma, West Elm sells furniture and decor pieces with a high-end look. Not only can you find them online, but West Elm’s showrooms also offer an opportunity to test out a lot of the pieces in person and work with customer service directly on orders—including custom orders and deliveries.

Its selection of furniture and decor is mostly designed in-house (95 percent of its products are designed in its Brooklyn studio). This design team creates trendy modern products, like the Carlo Mid-Century Sofa, which is our favorite midcentury couch in our best couches guide (read our full guide here). West Elm products are sourced from all over the world, so many items are crafted by local artisans from both local and far-flung communities. The company commits to ecologically responsible sourcing of materials as well as ethical business practices throughout its operations.

Shop West Elm sofas at West Elm.

7. Allform

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Allform
Photo: allform.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$
Our Top Picks: 3-Seat Sofa for $1,895; 4-Seat Sofa With Chaise for $2,645; or 4-Seat Corner Sectional for $2,645.

Allform is another company that sells comfortable, modular, made-in-America couches. The brand puts all its focus on sofas, selling armchairs, loveseats, sofas, and sectionals. Its products are made in North Carolina, where skilled local sofa manufacturers make the furniture by hand. The sofas feature a patent-pending latching system for comfort and long-lasting durability. For added convenience, the in-home assembly process requires no tools, and customers may configure the modular systems to suit their individual living spaces. 

Allform sofas are covered with heavy-duty performance fabrics that resist stains and pilling. Interior materials include foam and fiber with anti-shift encasements to provide both loft and comfort. Not sold yet? Each sofa comes with free delivery and a 100-day trial so shoppers can test the couch out for themselves. Might as well give a product like the 4-Seat Corner Sectional a try!

Shop Allform sofas at Allform.

8. Corrigan Studio

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Corrigan Studio
Photo: wayfair.com

Price Range: $ to $$
Our Top Picks: Gabrielo 58-Inch Square Arm Sofa Loveseat for $339.99, Jeses Minimore Modern Etta Sofa for $227.99, or Oaklee 98.5-Inch Right Hand Facing Sofa & Chaise for $429.99.

Corrigan Studio’s all-modern designs feature simple, sleek lines and compact construction. Many of its chairs, tables, desks, and sofas are lightweight and portable, making the brand especially attractive to young adults on the move. Furthermore, Corrigan Studio offers furniture at affordable prices, like the Oaklee 98.5-Inch Right Hand Facing Sofa & Chaise, which is extremely budget-friendly for a sofa and chaise. 

Sofas from Corrigan Studio feature the popular midcentury modern style. Legs and frames are constructed from wood, and coiled springs provide supportive seats. The removable cushions contain foam fill for comfort. Shoppers may customize many sofa’s color or fabric options. Due to their compact designs and clean lines, many of the Corrigan Studio sofas work well in small living spaces.

Shop Corrigan Studio sofas at Wayfair.

9. Medley Home

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Medley Home
Photo: medleyhome.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Rio Sofa for $2,203; Lala Sofa for $2,025; or Zavis Sofa for $2,315. 

With a passion for preserving the environment and promoting healthy home environments, brothers Travis and Ryan Nagle started Medley Home in 2005. They are committed to using eco-friendly and sustainable manufacturing processes as well as emphasizing solidly built and comfortable furniture that lasts for years. Each made-to-order sofa is handcrafted in the U.S. Users can rest assured that the fabrics and other materials are nontoxic and eco-friendly, with third-party certified materials. Frames and legs are made from solid wood sourced from sustainable forests that are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

The company offers a broad selection of sofas, sectionals, and sleepers that are customizable with numerous options for fabrics, colors, and leg finishes. Designs feature clean lines and sleek profiles (take the Lala Sofa’s minimalist design, for example) that complement most contemporary decor schemes. A 30-day trial ensures that customers get a solid chance to try—and love—their couches. 

Shop Medley Home sofas at Medley Home.

10. Joybird

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Joybird
Photo: joybird.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Hopson Sleeper Sofa for $2,137; Lewis Sectional for $2,330; or Briar Twin Sleeper Sofa starting at $1,457.

Founded in 2014, Joybird was acquired by La-Z-Boy in 2018. With corporate headquarters in Los Angeles, Joybird manufactures each piece according to customers’ specifications. Skilled craftsmen carefully construct each piece of Joybird furniture in Tijuana, Mexico. 

The midcentury modern designs hark back to the Danish modern style. Joybird offers a wide variety of sofas, sectionals, loveseats, and modular sofas. For extra lounging, the brand also makes daybeds and sleeper sofas (like the Briar Twin Sleeper Sofa). The contemporary designs feature clean, sleek lines, and the numerous options for fabric coverings include an array of both neutral and vibrant colors. In an effort to take care of the planet, Joybird reduces environmental impact by using only sustainably sourced materials. The company partners with the conservation group One Tree Planted to replenish the forests.

Shop Joybird sofas at Joybird.

11. Interior Define

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Interior Define
Photo: interiordefine.com

Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Maxwell Sectional Sofa With Chaise for $2,495; Asher 3-Seat Fabric Sofa for $1,945; or Ms. Chesterfield Leather Sofa for $2,895.

What started as an online-only enterprise in 2014 has grown into an operation with 15 Define Studios located throughout the United States. Interior Define offers a collection of sofas, loveseats, modular sofas, daybeds, and sleeper sofas.

The brand has gone through its fair share of hiccups: financial troubles resulted in Interior Define being acquired by Havenly in 2023. Despite some negative press around that time, the kinks seem to have been sorted out, and it’s well worth considering Interior Define for the brand’s outstanding customization options. While most customizable furniture options include color, fabric, and finish choices, Interior Define extends customization to include length and depth dimensions, leg configurations, and cushion fills. It’s possible to alter all these features of one of our favorite Interior Define sofas, featured in our best couches guide: the Maxwell Sectional Sofa With Chaise. With the numerous options for personalization, shoppers can acquire a sofa that is uniquely suited to their personal living spaces. 

Shop Interior Define sofas at Interior Define.

12. AllModern

The Best Sofa Brands Option: AllModern
Photo: allmodern.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Miller 84-Inch Upholstered Sofa for $1,170; Geo 83-Inch Genuine Leather Sofa for $1,280; or Mick 84-Inch Velvet Sofa for $1,680.

As the name suggests, AllModern sells furniture and decor matching a modern design vision. The furniture offered by the brand (which is also part of the Wayfair family) is purposefully designed and intended to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of modern daily life. 

Take a few moments to look around the site—specifically at the sofas—and it’s clear that AllModern offers a wide selection of styles, sizes, colors, and fabrics. Most of its modern sofas are available with different fabric and color options, allowing shoppers to customize the look of each piece. With attractive genuine leather sofa options, AllModern can even be considered one of the best leather sofa brands. The brand has many durable, water-resistant, and stain-resistant fabrics to accommodate canine friends — the Miller 84-Inch Upholstered Sofa was one of our top picks when it comes to the best couches for dogs (read our full guide here). Sofas ship for free and most will arrive within just a few days or a week.

Shop AllModern sofas at Wayfair or AllModern.

13. Anthropologie

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Anthropologie
Photo: anthropologie.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Jylin Woven Athena Sleeper Sofa for $2,898; Odin Faux Fur Loveseat for $798; or Asymmetrical Ruched Velvet Serpentine Sofa for $3,998.

Anthropologie is known for its unique aesthetic that blends modern, Bohemian, and rustic styles. Anthropologie’s trend-setting products do come at a bit of a premium price, but many consumers will often pay a bit extra given the strong design elements and quality of each piece. 

The sofas—like the other items sold by Anthropologie—are certainly quite different from most other retailers. Some feature a mix of different fabrics or materials and come in nonstandard shapes, colors, and patterns (like the eye-catching Jylin Woven Athena Sleeper Sofa). Most Anthropologie sofas are designed to be the focal point of a living room. Today, there are more than 200 Anthropologie stores across the globe, but much of the brand’s exclusive furniture is only available by ordering directly through the website or shopping in one of the storefront locations.

Shop Anthropologie sofas from Anthropologie.

14. Ikea

The Best Sofa Brands Option: Ikea
Photo: ikea.com

Price Range: $ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Uppland Sofa for $849, Friheten Sleeper Sofa for $749, or Glostad Loveseat for $149.

Based on founder Ingvar Kamprad’s vision for a socially conscious and altruistic business model, the Swedish-turned-global Ikea brand remains committed to eco-friendly production practices, balancing sustainability with affordability. Ikea is known for its budget-friendly flat-pack furniture products that are assembled by customers at home. Its extensive selection of sofas includes sectionals, loveseats, modular sofas, and sleepers.

Available sofa coverings include fabrics, leather, and faux leather in a wide variety of colors and textures. However, due to their design and price point, Ikea sofas tend to be relatively small and may not feel as comfortable as premium sofas. Their compactness is great for apartment living, though. For those on a very tight budget, it’s hard to beat some of Ikea’s offerings, like the Glostad Loveseat, which costs $149. 

Shop Ikea sofas at IKEA.

15. Article 

The Best Sofa Brand Article
Photo: article.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Sven Charme Tan 72-Inch Sofa for $1,799; Timber 90-Inch Leather Sofa for $1,999; or Gabriola Ivory Bouclé Loveseat for $699.

Launched in 2013, Article is another direct-to-consumer furniture brand that marries style and value. The Canadian brand makes stylish midcentury modern furniture that’s intended for outfitting a modern space on a reasonable budget. Like many other direct-to-consumer brands, Article is able to lower its prices by cutting out the middleman. In fact, it has its own fulfillment and logistics operation, down to its own delivery teams, which improves wait times for customers. 

The brand doesn’t have any showrooms but ships from its fulfillment centers, scattered across North America, right to the shopper’s front door. Customers can often expect their order in 2 weeks or less for in-stock orders—much better than the sometimes months-long lead time from other furniture companies. We love the Sven Charme Tan 72-Inch Sofa, which has a bit of a cult following online and looks so stylish. 

Shop Article sofas at Article.

16. Room & Board 

The Best Sofa Brand Room Board
Photo: .roomandboard.com

Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Jasper Sofa for $1,999; York Sectional for $5,900; or Deco Sleeper Sofa for $1,699.

Room & Board was founded in 1980, and since then, the brand has become a nationwide operation with its headquarters in Minnesota and stores nationwide. The brand blends traditional and modern, creating modern furniture with a timeless feel. Over 90 percent of its furniture and decor is made in America, using the skills of around 12,000 local craftspeople. This large operation reflects Room & Board’s wide furniture offerings, which include several couch collections. 

Beyond having a bevy of styles, shoppers can also choose some customizations (it varies from piece to piece), which can include couch size, depth, fabric, color, and leg finish. The brand makes daybeds, chaises, and sleeper sofas too (like the stylish Deco Sleeper Sofa), so there are even more options for finishing a room. With $119 full-service delivery for unlimited items per trip, delivery costs won’t be the reason to not order more furniture. This fee includes assembly, placement, and packaging removal too, perfect for those who don’t want to deal with the whole assembly bit. 

Shop Room & Board sofas at Room & Board.

17. Crate & Barrel 

The Best Sofa Brand Crate and Barrel
Photo: crateandbarrel.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Gather Deep Sofa for $2,049; Barrett II Reversible Sectional Sofa for $2,249; or Wells Leather Grande Sofa for $5,199.

Crate & Barrel was founded in 1962 by Gordon and Carole Segal. Inspired by a European honeymoon, the couple sought to bring simple and beautiful houseware to the U.S. market. Timeless, contemporary, and airy describe a lot of Crate & Barrel’s style, and that’s a throughline across the brand’s minimalist sofa designs.

Crate & Barrel couches are simple and elegant (the Gather Deep Sofa is a good example of the brand style) but come with a few customization options, which can include depth, fabric, and layout. Shoppers can buy online or pop into a store (there are stores scattered nationwide) to check out the furniture in person. Even in person, shoppers can take advantage of digital design and visualization tools. 

Shop Crate & Barrel sofas at Crate & Barrel.

18. CB2 

The Best Sofa Brand CB2
Photo: cb2.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$
Our Top Picks: Fitz Channeled White Boucle Loveseat for $1,499; Brace Saddle Leather Tufted Sofa for $3,699; or Strato 3-Piece Velvet Sectional Sofa for $4,197.

CB2 is Crate & Barrel’s sister brand, and the two share a few similarities. CB2 also has store locations for shoppers to peruse. The brand makes modern furniture at a mid-level price. However, if Crate & Barrel errs on the side of modern with traditional details, CB2 is a little more visually interesting, embracing whimsy and character alongside some classic designs. 

Out of the two brands, CB2 is more for eclectic decorators, with sofa options ranging from traditional tufted couches to bright and edgy velvet sofas (like the Strato 3-Piece Velvet Sectional Sofa). The brand has around 20 stores nationwide, so its physical reach is a bit smaller than Crate & Barrel’s dozens of stores, but ordering online is always an option.

Shop CB2 sofas at CB2.

19. Pottery Barn 

The Best Sofa Brand Pottery Barn
Photo: potterybarn.com

Price Range: $$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Ultra Lounge Roll Arm Reclining Sofa starting at $4,447; Carlisle Sofa starting at $1,499; or Cushy Lounge Super Sectional Set starting at $1,079.

Pottery Barn is another Williams Sonoma brand, and like all the brands under the umbrella, it stocks a wide collection of beautiful furniture. The brand has been around for over 70 years, earning customer trust over decades of building fittings for every room. Based in San Francisco, it draws inspiration from around the world to create fashionable furniture designs. Similar to other more traditional stores, Pottery Barn has brick-and-mortar stores across the U.S., but shoppers can buy online as well. 

Pottery Barn sofas are clean and modern, but also cozy. The brand’s range is impressive, including daybeds, chaises, and reclining couches (like the Ultra Lounge Roll Arm Reclining Sofa in our best recliner sofa guide). The brand has a few other lines, including Pottery Barn Kids and Pottery Barn Teen (which includes a Dorm line as well). This means they stock a couch for every room, including relaxed sofas that appeal to teenagers and young adults and low-to-ground cushy couches suitable for a playroom. 

Shop Pottery Barn sofas at Pottery Barn.

20. BenchMade Modern

The Best Sofa Brand BenchMade Modern
Photo: benchmademodern.com

Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
Our Top Picks: Skinny Fat Sofa starting at $3,049; Tyler Sofa With Bumper starting at $2,600; or Couch Potato Sofa starting at $2,595.

Those who want highly customizable, made-to-order furniture from one of the top sofa manufacturers will want to consider a sofa from BenchMade Modern. Another brand that strikes a balance between modern and timeless styles, BenchMade Modern aims to make furniture that will last a lifetime and fit perfectly in its intended space. Each durable sofa has a plethora of customization options, including dimensions, upholstery, cushion fill, and leg finish. An option like the popular Skinny Fat Sofa is available in a standard or extra-deep seat depth and a customizable 65-inch to 100-inch width. 

Once ordered, sofas are then crafted in Dallas, Texas, and Los Angeles, California. To make sure the sofa is a perfect fit, the brand offers a 100-day return period. Those who won’t want to wait the typical 2 to 6 weeks can shop from the ReadyMade collection.

Shop BenchMade sofas at BenchMade.

How We Chose the Best Sofa Brands

When reviewing brands for the best sofa brands list, we searched for those with well-known and popular furniture offerings as well as niche makers who create trusted products. As a sofa needs to perform the dual role of being comfortable and stylish, those that offered durable products in a variety of appealing design styles ranked high.

Another important quality we used to select brands was price and value. We wanted to make sure that affordable popular sofa brands were on the list as well as high-end expensive brands whose offerings deliver more than fair value and longevity for the price. We also looked for companies that include custom options and eco-friendly materials. 

The post The 20 Best Sofa Brands for Every Style and Budget appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
170520
The Best Shower Tile Cleaner for a Sparkling Shower, Tested https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-shower-tile-cleaners/ Thu, 28 Oct 2021 16:10:41 +0000 The best shower tile cleaners get the job done safely and effectively. We researched a range of shower tile cleaners to bring you the top picks.

The post The Best Shower Tile Cleaner for a Sparkling Shower, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
A long, hot shower is one of life’s simple pleasures, and using an effective shower tile cleaner can contribute to that experience. Dirty or moldy shower tile promotes an unhealthy showering environment because bacteria, fungus, mold, and mildew grow on the tile’s surface. Regular cleaning is the best defense against this grime; however, not all shower tile cleaners work for all surfaces or stains. To find the best products for cutting through these different types of buildup, we researched 15 highly rated shower tile cleaners and then tested the top seven cleaners. 

Keep reading to learn how each cleaner performed in our hands-on testing and which product is the best shower tile cleaner for tackling specific cleaning challenges.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Lysol Power Bathroom Foamer Cleaner
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Scrubbing Bubbles Mega Shower Foamer Trigger
  3. BEST FOR MOLD AND MILDEW: Clorox Plus Tilex Mold & Mildew Remover 
  4. BEST FOR CLEANING GROUT: Black Diamond Ultimate Grout Cleaner
  5. BEST FOR HARD WATER SPOTS: CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Cleaner
  6. BEST NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Better Life Tub and Tile Cleaner
  7. BEST FOR NATURAL STONE: Granite Gold Shower Cleaner
A person holding a spray bottle of Lysol Power Bathroom Foamer Cleaner after spraying it on shower tile during testing.
Photo: Katie Barton for BobVila.com

How We Tested the Best Shower Tile Cleaners

To narrow down our list of 15 of the best shower tile cleaners to the top seven cleaners for hands-on testing, we began by researching average customer ratings, prices, and brand reputation. We also considered specific cleaning situations, ensuring we chose products that could tackle soap scum, hard water spots, mold, and grout, as well as delicate natural stone surfaces.

We spent 3 weeks testing the products on a ceramic tile shower with dark gray grout and a plastic tile shower with white grout. First, we mimicked soap scum by creating a mixture of soap and water and allowing it to dry on our shower tile. Then, we applied each shower tile cleaner to determine how effectively it could remove the mixture. We also tested the ability of applicable products to eliminate mold and hard water spots and to clean grout. 

Finally, we logged our test results in a rubric survey in which we rated each cleaner on its ease of use, effectiveness, scent, and value. We then tallied these results to award each product an overall rating.

Testing Stats

  • Products tested: 7
  • Hours spent testing: 5.3
  • Tests performed: 11
  • Average price: $10.22

Our Top Picks

These top picks represent some of the best shower tile cleaners on the market today for cleaning shower tile, grout, and other bathroom surfaces. Manufactured by well-known and reputable companies, each cleaner demonstrates effectiveness, safety, and value. 

Best Overall

Lysol Power Bathroom Foamer Cleaner

 A spray bottle of Lysol Power Bathroom Foamer Cleaner on a white background.
Photo: Amazon.com

Pros

  • Cuts through limescale and soap scum on most hard, nonporous bathroom surfaces
  • Thick foam makes it easy to spot-treat buildup on shower tiles
  • Can sanitize, disinfect, remove limescale and soap scum, or prevent mold growth, depending on usage

Cons

  • A somewhat harsh chemical smell may be offensive to some users

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Scent 3/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

  • Volume: 32 ounces
  • Consistency and application: Foam spray
  • Recommended surfaces: Glazed ceramic tile, shower doors, tubs, vanity tops, sinks, chrome fixtures

Lysol Power Bathroom Foamer is a spray cleaner that provides thick foaming action to cut through even the toughest soap scum and limescale. It can sanitize and disinfect bathroom surfaces, plus repel future mold growth and soap scum buildup. This cleaner is safe for glazed ceramic shower tile and most other nonporous bathroom surfaces, including tubs, sinks, shower doors, chrome fixtures, and vanity tops. 

The cleaner was a top performer in our limescale and soap scum tests. We sprayed it on our shower tile walls and allowed it to sit on the surface for 1 minute before wiping it with a microfiber cloth. As we wiped with the cloth, all the soap scum and residue came off easily, and our tiles looked spotless. We also tested this cleaner on a laminate vanity top, sink, tub, and chrome faucet. It removed toothpaste splatters, hard water spots, and other bathroom grime.

Lysol Power Bathroom Foamer sanitizes a surface in 30 seconds and disinfects in 10 minutes. We appreciated that we could use this product to clean regular messes and kill nasty bathroom germs. However, we didn’t like the somewhat harsh odor. While the scent wasn’t unbearable, it wasn’t pleasant either. We ventilated the room during use to dissipate the chemical odor.

Get the Lysol shower tile cleaner at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best Bang for the Buck

Scrubbing Bubbles Mega Shower Foamer Trigger

 A spray bottle of Scrubbing Bubbles Mega Shower Foamer Trigger on a white background.
Photo: amazon.com

Pros

  • Cleans multiple surfaces, including tile, grout, showers, tubs, and countertops
  • Foam penetrates soap scum and dirt, making it easy to wipe away messes
  • Removes hard water spots, calcium, and lime deposits without excessive scrubbing

Cons

  • Inefficient spray nozzle causes an unwieldy foam spray
  • Not recommended for acrylic, brass, natural marble, or unsealed stone surfaces

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Scent 4/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

  • Volume: 32 ounces
  • Consistency and application: Foam spray
  • Recommended surfaces: Glazed ceramic tile, glazed porcelain, chrome, countertops, sealed stone, shower doors, tubs, grout

Scrubbing Bubbles Mega Shower Foamer cleans not only shower tile but multiple other bathroom surfaces. This cleaner works on ceramic and porcelain tile to remove soap scum, dirt, grime, and calcium and lime deposits. Use it to clean shower doors, vinyl shower curtains, sinks, and toilets. 

We first used this product to tackle soap scum buildup in our tiled shower by spraying it on the surface, allowing it to penetrate for a few minutes, and then wiping it clean with a microfiber cloth. The product cleaned the surface effectively, leaving our tile free of soap scum and hard water deposits. We also used it to wipe down our laminate countertops and shower curtain liner. The rainshower scent was pleasant, without overwhelming fumes. 

However, we found the adjustable spray nozzle to be a serious drawback. The spray foam is intended to cover grime and soap scum in all directions, with instructions indicating to hold the bottle 15 inches from the surface before spraying. Even when we followed these instructions, the spray went everywhere, including on our hands. While this cleaner made our list of top picks because of its exceptional cleaning power and versatility, we recommend wearing gloves while using it.

Get the Scrubbing Bubbles shower tile cleaner at Amazon, Lowe’s, Walmart, or Target.

Best for Mold and Mildew

Clorox Plus Tilex Mold & Mildew Remover

 Three spray bottles of Clorox Plus Tilex Mold & Mildew Remover on a white background.
Photo: Amazon.com

Pros

  • Kills common household bacteria and fungus, plus mold and mildew
  • Can remove mold and mildew in as little as 5 minutes without scrubbing
  • Safe for multiple bathroom surfaces and different types of shower surrounds

Cons

  • Contains bleach; must take proper safety precautions and ventilate the room during application
  • Areas with more stubborn mold or mildew buildup may require scrubbing

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Scent 3/5; Value 4.5/5

Product Specs 

  • Volume: 32 ounces
  • Consistency and application: Liquid spray
  • Recommended surfaces: Glazed ceramic tile, grout, vinyl, fiberglass, tubs, countertops, sinks, no-wax floors, shower doors

With bleach as an active ingredient, Clorox Plus Tilex Mold & Mildew Remover destroys the bacteria that cause staphylococcus and streptococcus, as well as the fungus that leads to athlete’s foot. It also kills 99 percent of common household bacteria, along with the mold and mildew that grow in damp bathroom environments. This cleaner is safe for use on ceramic tile, grout, vinyl, fiberglass, and plastic. 

Clorox states that this product can “eliminate stains before your eyes.” We’re always skeptical of these types of claims, so we were shocked to see mildew gliding off the tile within 15 seconds of spraying the cleaner on our shower. In addition to our ceramic tile shower, we used Clorox Plus Tilex on a fiberglass shower, which was in much worse condition. We sprayed it all over the orange-colored mildew buildup and allowed it to soak for 5 minutes. Then, we used a shower scrub brush to successfully remove the stain, requiring only light elbow grease from us.

This cleaner delivers on its promises, working exceptionally well on mold and mildew. It does contain bleach, so be sure to properly ventilate the room during use and take proper safety precautions. 

Get the Clorox shower tile cleaner at Amazon (3-pack), The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best for Cleaning Grout

Black Diamond Ultimate Grout Cleaner

 A spray bottle of Black Diamond Ultimate Grout Cleaner on a white background.
Photot: Amazon.com

Pros

  • Acid-free formula is safe for all white and colored grout
  • Lifts dirt, grease, oil, and soap scum from grout within 3 minutes
  • Safe to use on all types of tile, including natural stone surfaces

Cons

  • Doesn’t remove mold or limescale from grout lines due to the acid- and bleach-free formula

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Scent 5/5; Value 4.5/5

Product Specs 

  • Volume: 32 ounces
  • Consistency and application: Liquid spray
  • Recommended surfaces: White and colored grout

When cleaning a tile shower, you’ll also want to consider the best way to clean grout. Many bathroom cleaners will remove mold, soap scum, and hard water deposits on grout, but not all can eliminate years’ worth of dirt buildup. Black Diamond Ultimate Grout Cleaner is formulated to dissolve dirt, grease, oil, and soap scum from grout lines. Its acid-free formula is safe for all types of tile, including natural stone. 

We first used this product about a year ago on our ceramic tile bathroom floors. The light gray grout had turned a dingy orange color and needed a refresh. A spray of this cleaner and a light scrub took our grout from disgusting to like new. Since then, it has been the best grout cleaner we’ve found. This time, we used the cleaner on our dark gray shower grout. We sprayed it on, let it sit for 3 minutes, and then scrubbed it with a grout brush. This product removed soap scum and left the grout lines sparkling fresh.

Black Diamond doesn’t indicate a particular scent for this cleaner, but it has a light, fresh smell. It’s also compatible with steam cleaners to make light work of grout scrubbing. Because this product is acid- and bleach-free, it won’t remove mold or limescale.

Get the Black Diamond shower tile cleaner at Amazon or BD Stoneworks.

Best for Hard Water Spots

CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Cleaner

 Two spray bottles of CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Cleaner on a white background.
Photo: Amazon.com

Pros

  • Dissolves lime, calcium, soap scum, and dirt on many bathroom surfaces
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Safer Choice certified; does not contain bleach, ammonia, or phosphates
  • Thick foaming spray makes it easy to coat shower walls and spot-treat problem areas

Cons

  • Not suitable for colored grout, marble, or painted tile surfaces
  • Harsh smell may be offensive to some users; room ventilation may be necessary

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Scent 3/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

  • Volume: 26 ounces
  • Consistency and application: Foam spray
  • Recommended surfaces: Ceramic tile, plastic, porcelain, stainless steel, sealed granite, white grout, shower doors, fiberglass, sinks, toilet bowls

CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Cleaner breaks down dirt, soap scum, and calcium and limescale deposits. It’s registered with the EPA Safer Choice Program, signifying that this product is a safer alternative to cleaners that contain bleach, phosphates, and ammonia. 

In addition to shower tile, the cleaner works to cut through dirt and deposits on shower doors, white grout and caulk, porcelain toilet bowls and sinks, stainless steel, fiberglass, and more. However, it is not safe for use on colored grout; vinyl; glass mirrors; wood; natural stones; plastic laminates; and painted, coated, or sealed surfaces. 

We used this product on our plastic tile shower with white grout. The foam came out thick when we sprayed it on, making it easy to coat the shower walls. The cleaner did smell harsh, so we had to open a window to ventilate the room. We let the product sit for a few minutes before wiping it with a damp microfiber cloth. As we wiped the cloth, all the hard water spots and soap scum disappeared from our shower walls. The CLR cleaner was also one of the best bathtub cleaners during our testing, leaving our tub sparkling clean. 

Get the CLR shower tile cleaner at Amazon (2-pack), The Home Depot, Walmart, or Target.

Best Natural Ingredients

Better Life Tub and Tile Cleaner

 Two bottles of Better Life Tub and Tile Cleaner on a white background.
Photo: Amazon.com

Pros

  • Made from plant-based, biodegradable ingredients with a natural tea tree and eucalyptus scent
  • Safe for use on multiple bathroom surfaces, including shower walls, toilets, tubs, and most fixtures
  • Natural ingredients and no harsh fumes make this cleaner safe for daily use

Cons

  • Not as effective on soap scum and hard water deposits compared to chemical cleaners
  • Not suitable for marble, granite, and other natural stone materials

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Scent 4/5; Value 5/5

Product Specs 

  • Volume: 2-pack of 32-ounce bottles; 64 ounces total
  • Consistency and application: Foam spray
  • Recommended surfaces: Ceramic, porcelain, stainless steel, fiberglass, acrylic, and chrome

For health-conscious and environmentally conscious shoppers, this all-natural cleaner from Better Life presents a viable alternative to chemical-based shower tile cleaners. The ingredients are plant-based and biodegradable, and membership in the Leaping Bunny program certifies that the manufacturer never tests the product on animals. This cleaner is safe to use on shower tile walls, shower doors and curtains, grout, tubs, sinks, toilet seats, and chrome fixtures. 

Of all the shower tile cleaners we tested, Better Life Tub and Tile Cleaner had the best scent, devoid of any harsh chemical smell. Its natural tea tree and eucalyptus fragrance was refreshing, and we didn’t have to ventilate the room while cleaning. The foaming spray effectively removed weekly buildup and light soap scum from our shower tiles. Unfortunately, it couldn’t tackle moderate to severe soap scum or hard water deposits like chemical-based cleaners.

We also used this cleaner in other spots around the bathroom—like the toilet seat, sink, and chrome faucet—and appreciated the versatility. It’s an ideal daily cleaner. However, if you need to cut through old soap scum, lots of hard water deposits, mold, or mildew, you may need a more potent product.

Get the Better Life shower tile cleaner at Amazon (2-pack) or Walmart.

Best for Natural Stone

Granite Gold Shower Cleaner

 Two spray bottles of Granite Gold Shower Cleaner on a white background.
Photo: amazon.com

Pros

  • Phosphate- and ammonia-free cleaner specially formulated for natural stone shower tile
  • Repeated use helps to prevent future mold, mildew, and hard water deposits
  • No harsh smell; light citrus scent leaves the shower smelling fresh

Cons

  • May not remove mold, mildew, and severe soap scum buildup

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Effectiveness 4.5/5; Scent 4/5; Value 4/5

Product Specs 

  • Volume: 24 ounces
  • Consistency and application: Liquid spray
  • Recommended surfaces: Granite, marble, travertine, quartz, ceramic

Granite Gold shower tile cleaner works well on ceramic tile as well as shower tile made from natural stone materials, including quartz, marble, travertine, granite, and more. Regular use of this cleaner prevents the buildup of soap scum, hard water deposits, mold, and mildew on shower tile, tub surrounds, and bathroom fixtures. It achieves deep-cleaning results without ammonia or phosphates and leaves a streak-free, clean surface that reveals the stone’s natural beauty. 

We tested this product on our ceramic tile shower, spraying it on the shower walls and wiping it with a soft microfiber cloth. The cleaner effectively cut through regular buildup and light soap scum without issue. We also applied it to more stubborn soap scum and hard water deposits, which took repeated applications and lots of elbow grease to eliminate these tougher stains.

Granite Gold shower tile cleaner emits a light citrus scent with no harsh chemical smell. We didn’t need to ventilate the room during use. Overall, this shower spray proved handy as a daily cleaner, but shower tile with severe buildup will likely require a stronger product, a shower scrubber, or a lot of elbow grease.

Get the Granite Gold shower tile cleaner at Amazon or Granite Gold.

Jump to Our Top Picks

A person using the best shower tile cleaner and a brush to clean tile grout.
Photo: Katie Barton for BobVila.com

What to Consider When Choosing a Shower Tile Cleaner

Given the many available options, shoppers can select products to clean grout and shower tiles according to the specific needs and conditions that exist in their bathrooms. For example, if mold and mildew growth is a problem, special cleaners can tackle that particular issue. If the shower tiles are made of natural stone rather than ceramic or porcelain, cleaners formulated for stone are available as well. Keep reading to learn about these and other important factors to consider when searching for the best shower cleaner.

Type of Cleaner

Shower tile cleaners are available in several types, including liquid and foam sprays, powders, gels, and pastes. For ease of use, however, the sprays take first prize. 

Foam sprays cling to the vertical surfaces of shower walls, allowing the cleaning ingredients to break down dirt, soap scum, mineral deposits, mold, and mildew on the tile before the foam dissipates or drips. Liquid sprays also are effective, coating surfaces while dispersing the product from a nozzle.

Product directions typically indicate spraying the cleaner on the shower tile and allowing it to set for 2 to 5 minutes so the ingredients can interact with the dirt, soap scum, mold, and mildew. After waiting for the appropriate time, rinse the area with clean water and wipe with a damp cloth or sponge. Finally, wipe the area with a dry cloth to bring out a sheen on the shower tile surface.

Type of Tile

Before choosing the best shower cleaner, it’s essential to first know the type of tile in your shower. Because ceramic and porcelain are the most commonly used materials in shower tiles, tile cleaners that treat these materials are common. They’re formulated to clean the tiles without damaging the finish or the underlying material. 

However, some shower tiles are made from marble, quartz, granite, travertine, or other natural stone materials. Using a run-of-the-mill shower tile cleaner on natural stone tiles can damage this material, so experts advise using a shower tile cleaner specially formulated for natural stone.

Purpose and Performance

Shower tile cleaners feature different formulations for specific purposes. For example, some cleaners contain bleach to kill bacteria, fungus, mold, and mildew. Alternatively, health-conscious and environmentally aware users can opt for all-natural green cleaners with no harsh chemicals. 

Additionally, hard water that contains calcium, magnesium, and lime can cause a mineral deposit buildup, and some shower tile cleaners are formulated specifically to remove these stains. 

Versatility

Product descriptions for shower tile cleaners include the surfaces on which you can and can’t use them. Consider the surface materials in the bathroom, and then select a cleaner that works well across a wide range of materials and completes multiple cleaning tasks. 

No shower tile cleaner is suitable for every surface. However, if a cleaner is versatile enough to clean not only the shower tile but several other surfaces, you’ll save both time and money.

Toxicity

For the safety of family members, guests, and the person doing the cleaning, consider the toxicity level of specific ingredients in shower tile cleaners. Although bleach may be dangerous when inhaled in large quantities, the amount of bleach and disinfecting agents in shower cleaners is generally not at harmful levels. However, if you’re still concerned or the smell is bothersome, open windows, activate exhaust fans, and ventilate the bathroom before using any product that contains bleach or disinfectants.

Some users may avoid surfactants in cleaning products because of the possibility of skin irritation, and environmentally conscious shoppers often avoid products that contain phosphates due to their harmful effects on natural water sources. If you want to avoid chemicals in cleaning products, consider all-natural shower tile cleaners that rely on plant-based ingredients. 

FAQs

To keep a bathroom looking and smelling fresh, experts recommend regularly cleaning shower tile with a safe and effective product. As an added benefit, consistent cleaning protects the health of all household members. The answers to these frequently asked questions may help you get started with your new shower tile cleaner. 

Q. How do you deep-clean a tile shower?

Remove the shower head and soak it in equal parts water and white vinegar. Clean the shower caddy and replace worn-out accessories. Clean the shower curtain or doors, along with the tile, grout, drain, and caulking.

Q. What do professional cleaners use to clean showers?

Many professional cleaners use green products, including white vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, castile soap, and borax.

Q. What is the best no-scrub shower cleaner? 

The Lysol and Scrubbing Bubbles shower tile cleaners require only spraying, rinsing, and wiping, with no scrubbing necessary.

Q. What should I do if a shower tile cleaner gets into my eyes? 

Flush your eyes with clean, running water for 15 to 30 minutes, keeping your eyes open as much as possible. If the eye burn is severe, seek medical treatment or call 911.

Meet the Tester

Katie Barton has over 10 years of experience in product writing, has tested dozens of cleaning products, and has authored hundreds of articles for major media outlets. Her cleaning and organizing advice has been featured on GOBankingRates, Realtor.com, Yahoo!, Cabin Life, and more. She takes an unbiased approach to product testing, using each product multiple times or for several days/weeks to determine efficacy. Her goal is to help readers decide which products are worth their hard-earned money and which fall flat.

Additional research provided by Carol Benton.

The post The Best Shower Tile Cleaner for a Sparkling Shower, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
184851
The Best Quiet Fans to Keep You Cool and Comfortable, Tested https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-quiet-fan/ Tue, 20 Jun 2023 22:56:04 +0000 The best quiet fan can help reduce energy costs and provide ample air circulation. Read on to see the top models available.

The post The Best Quiet Fans to Keep You Cool and Comfortable, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
Decades before air conditioning, fans were the go-to appliances for feeling cooler when summer temperatures soared. Today, fans are as popular as ever, thanks to a growing focus on energy efficiency. However, not all fans are created equal. Some fans can sound like firing up a lawn mower, while others are nearly silent. We researched more than 25 fans and then tested seven models to gauge which fans produced enough airflow to keep us comfortable while generating minimal noise. 

Whether you’re looking to transform a bedroom into a relaxing haven or simply want to lower your utility bills, you’ll find a blissfully quiet fan in this guide. Read on to discover how the following models earned a spot in this lineup of the best quiet fans. 

  1. BEST OVERALL: Shark FlexBreeze Fan With InstaCool Mist
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Pelonis 16-Inch Pedestal Fan With DC Motor
  3. BEST TOWER PICK: Lasko 42-Inch 12-Speed EcoQuiet DC Motor Tower Fan
  4. BEST DESKTOP: Rowenta Turbo Silence Table Fan
  5. BEST FOR CEILINGS: Minka-Aire Barn LED 65-Inch Smart Ceiling Fan
  6. BEST BATTERY: Runtop 12-Inch High-Velocity Rechargeable Floor Fan
  7. BEST PEDESTAL: Vornado Energy Smart Medium Pedestal Air Circulator
The Best Quiet Fan Options
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila

How We Tested the Best Quiet Fans

The quietest fans emit a soothing white noise perfect for sleeping or concentrating without distraction. When selecting the fans we wanted to test, we researched more than 25 models, carefully analyzing noise level, design, adjustability, power, and portability. We tested a variety of tabletop, tower, pedestal, and ceiling fans to suit many typical household needs.

We assembled each fan—if necessary—and noted its noise level. Many of these models hovered at 30 to 40 decibels (dB) while in operation, with 30 dB being like a whisper. With virtually every quiet fan we tested, the decibel level rose slightly with increased speeds. That’s to be expected even if the fan’s motor doesn’t make more noise since the faster the blades cut through the air, the more sound they generate. 

We tried out each fan’s features and perks—adjustable speed levels, remote controls, programmable settings, smart options, and adjustable stands (if applicable). We even tested a fan that emits a mist for outdoor use on sweltering days. Then, we awarded points based on a rubric: The better a fan performed on a test, the more points we gave it. After testing, we averaged the points to determine the top picks and categorized each fan according to its best use. 

Testing Stats

  • Products tested: 7
  • Hours spent testing: 5
  • Tests performed: 4
  • Price range: $72 to $550
Video: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila

Our Top Picks

The best quiet fans featured in this guide represent various styles, sizes, and power levels. While they differ in design, price, and intended use, each fan excelled in our hands-on tests, boasts a reputable manufacturer, and registers less than 60 decibels while in operation. One of these models is sure to be the right pick for your needs. 

Best Overall

Shark FlexBreeze Fan With InstaCool Mist

 The Shark FlexBreeze Fan With InstaCool Mist in both table-top and pedestal mode with an illustration of blue mist.
Photo: amazon.com

Pros

  • Offers versatility as a corded pedestal fan or a cordless tabletop fan
  • Remote control conveniently adheres to the fan head via a magnet
  • Misting function is an innovative option for outdoor cooling in hot weather

Cons

  • Pricey compared to traditional pedestal or tabletop fans

Our Ratings: Setup 4.5/5; Cooling 5/5; Noise 5/5; Features 5/5; Value 4.5/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Pedestal, tabletop
  • Decibel rating: 32.4 dB on the lowest setting
  • Remote control: Yes

If you’re searching for a quiet fan that offers a lot of functionality, look no further than the Shark FlexBreeze fan with InstaCool. This innovative fan cools, oscillates, and functions as a pedestal fan and a tabletop fan.

We were pleasantly surprised by the versatility of this fan. We assembled the base unit and stand, which took only a few minutes, and then plugged in the fan and turned it on at the lowest setting. This fan was very quiet—not much louder than a whisper—but it generated a breeze we could feel from halfway across the room. Shark notes that the FlexBreeze generates 32.4 dB on the lowest setting and 58.5 dB on the highest setting. Those numbers were accurate based on what we registered with our decibel tester.

The FlexBreeze is both a corded and a cordless fan. It plugs into a household outlet as a pedestal fan, and by simply pressing a button and removing the fan head, the FlexBreeze serves as a table fan via a rechargeable battery.

Adding to its versatility, this model is also a mist fan for outdoor use. It comes with a misting attachment that snaps on the front of the fan grill and connects to a garden hose to produce a breezy fine water mist perfect for lounging by a pool on a hot summer day. However, it’s important for safety reasons only to use the misting function when the fan is in battery mode. The fan also includes a remote control that adheres to the head via a magnet for easy access.

Read our full review: Shark FlexBreeze Fan With InstaCool Mist

Get the Shark quiet fan at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Best Buy

Best Bang for the Buck

Pelonis 16-Inch Pedestal Fan With DC Motor

 The Pelonis 16-Inch Pedestal Fan With DC Motor and its remote on a white background.
Photo: amazon.com

Pros

  • More affordable compared to quiet pedestal fans of similar design
  • DC motor makes it whisper quiet during use—ideal fan for bedrooms, nurseries, and home offices
  • Height adjusts via a twist connector on the pole, adding versatility and personalized cooling

Cons

  • Oscillation is limited to 85 degrees but can be mitigated by placing fan in the corner of a room

Our Ratings: Setup 4/5; Cooling 4.5/5; Noise 5/5; Features 4/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Pedestal
  • Decibel rating: As low as 38 dB
  • Remote control: Yes

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to purchase a quiet fan that keeps you cool and helps reduce utility bills. The Pelonis 16-inch pedestal fan features 12 speeds and a DC motor (the quietest type), so you can enjoy a soothing breeze without distracting noise. 

The Pelonis took a bit longer to assemble than some of the other fans we tested, but that was due to one of the base poles being slightly out of whack, which was likely a fluke. We were able to twist the pole and work it into the adjoining pole bracket. Once assembled, we could adjust the fan’s height without issue. 

The manufacturer notes this fan registers as low as 38 dB. However, on our tester, it only reached 34 dB from 6 feet away when running on the lowest setting. Even at the highest setting, it didn’t exceed 52 dB in our tests. 

While some of the fans we tested oscillated up to 180 degrees, the Pelonis oscillated just 85 degrees, but placing it in the corner of our room was sufficient to offer a cooling breeze to the entire room. An included remote control makes this fan more versatile, but we would have liked a spot on the fan for storing the remote. 

Get the Pelonis quiet fan at Amazon

Best Tower Pick

Lasko 42-Inch 12-Speed EcoQuiet DC Motor Tower Fan

 The Lasko 42-Inch 12-Speed EcoQuiet DC Motor Tower Fan and its remote on a white background.
Photo: amazon.com

Pros

  • Tall, slim design saves floor space, making it a good choice for small rooms
  • Strong oscillating breeze ensures everyone in the room is comfortable
  • Quiet operation and noise quality is calming and soothing 
  • Includes a timer function and 12 speed levels for versatility

Cons

  • Tall and narrow design makes it more likely to tip over if bumped

Our Ratings: Setup 5/5; Cooling 4.5/5; Noise 4.5/5; Features 5/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Tower
  • Decibel rating: 46 dB
  • Remote control: Yes

Tower fans are popular for their space-saving vertical design, making them well suited for small rooms. However, being tall and slim doesn’t reduce the effectiveness of the Lasko EcoQuiet fan. This ultraquiet fan produced a hearty breeze in our tests, and it did so without creating an annoying amount of noise. 

The manufacturer notes this fan generates 46 dB of noise, which is already on the quiet side, but it registered just 33 dB from 6 feet away at the lowest speed in our tests. At the highest speed, it registered 50 dB. What we noticed most about the Lasko EcoQuiet fan was the calming quality of its noise. It was similar to the soothing and gentle sound of our white noise machine.

This model features 12 speed options for a variety of room sizes. We liked the timer function and the slow but strong oscillation that provides a cooling breeze to all areas of a room. It also includes a handy remote control that hooks onto the back of the fan when not in use. Overall, the EcoQuiet fan provides a tall, vertical swath of breeze for instant cooling. 

Get the Lasko quiet fan at Amazon or Walmart

Best Desktop

Rowenta Turbo Silence Table Fan

 The Rowenta Turbo Silence Table Fan on a white background.
Photo: amazon.com

Pros

  • Small, compact, and highly portable, making it convenient to carry from room to room
  • Targeted cooling for a specific area; ideal for use in a home office or on a table
  • Manual operation is simple to understand and operate

Cons

  • Not as effective when placed on the floor due to the angle of the breeze
  • Does not include a remote control

Our Ratings: Setup 4.5/5; Cooling 5/5; Noise 5/5; Features 2/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Tabletop
  • Decibel rating: 38 to 55 dB
  • Remote control: No

Shoppers looking for the portability and targeted cooling of a tabletop fan will want to check out the Rowenta Turbo Silence fan, which produces no more than 55 dB on its highest setting. 

This is an entirely manual fan. It doesn’t include a remote control or many bells and whistles, but it provides a consistently cool breeze with 85 degrees of oscillation. On the lowest setting, the fan registered just 36 dB on our tester; it was barely audible yet produced a gentle, soothing breeze. 

The fan’s Turbo setting produced a refreshingly strong breeze during our testing. We could opt for 85-degree oscillation or a straight, directed breeze by pulling or pushing a lever on the top of the fan head. Old style, yes, but efficient—and no remote to misplace.

The only downside to a tabletop fan like the Rowenta fan is its inability to get full-room circulation if you place it on the floor. Although you can tilt the head up or down slightly, this fan is best suited for placement on a table, desk, or countertop to offer the best air circulation. 

Get the Rowenta quiet fan at Amazon, Walmart, or Kmart

Best for Ceilings

Minka-Aire Barn LED 65-Inch Smart Ceiling Fan

 The Minka-Aire Barn LED 65-Inch Smart Ceiling Fan on a white background.
Photo: amazon.com

Pros

  • Uniform air movement throughout the entire room, helping to maintain a consistent comfort level
  • Premium design that features a trendy weathered-wood look and large blade span
  • Reversible blade direction makes the fan suitable for use in hot or cold seasons
  • Ultraquiet operation; not even noticeable on the lowest speed

Cons

  • Installation requires a working knowledge of household wiring or hiring an electrician
  • Fan is pricier than others we tested, but it also functions as a design element in a home

Our Ratings: Setup 4.5/5; Cooling 5/5; Noise 5/5; Features 4/5; Value 4/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Ceiling
  • Decibel rating: Not listed
  • Remote control: Yes

When you desire consistent and uniform air circulation but a portable room fan isn’t an option, consider installing a ceiling fan. We installed the Minka-Aire Barn fan in a great room with a vaulted ceiling, and when we turned it on the lowest setting, it impressively didn’t even register on our decibel tester. 

This model is a premium ceiling fan. This fan offers a DC motor, a 65-inch blade span, and 10 blades that feature a stunning weathered-wood style. It includes reversible blade direction to serve as an all-season fan and a remote control for convenient operation.

Unfortunately, installation is not a DIY project unless you’re well acquainted with household wiring. While the manufacturer doesn’t list the fan’s decibel rating, it registered just 38 dB on our tester at its highest setting.

If you’re looking for a permanent fan solution and are as interested in style as you are in lowering utility costs, this ceiling fan is an excellent option. 

Get the Minka-Aire quiet fan at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot

Best Battery

Runtop 12-Inch High-Velocity Rechargeable Floor Fan

 The Runtop 12-Inch High-Velocity Rechargeable Floor Fan on a white background.
Photo: amazon.com

Pros

  • Portability makes it well suited for outdoor activities like camping and tailgating
  • Runs quietly and efficiently; registered just 43 decibels in hands-on testing
  • LED light is ideal for after-dark use

Cons

  • Users must remember to charge the battery before outings to ensure full runtime
  • Does not include a remote control

Our Ratings: Setup 4.5/5; Cooling 5/5; Noise 5/5; Features 2/5; Value 4.5/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Tabletop
  • Decibel rating: Not listed
  • Remote control: No

Corded fans are great for producing breezes when an electrical outlet is available, but you can take the Runtop fan along on tailgating, camping, and other outdoor events thanks to its internal rechargeable battery that offers a runtime of up to 36 hours at the lowest speed. 

The manufacturer doesn’t list a decibel level for this fan, but it registered just 52 dB at the highest speed and 43 dB at the lowest speed in our tests. It includes a charging cord and took just over an hour to charge fully. Once charged, the Runtop fan is completely portable—just unplug it and go. It features a large base that supports the fan head, and we were able to tilt the head up and down as desired. This fan doesn’t oscillate; it provides a straight, direct breeze that we found suitable for cooling one or two people sitting in close proximity.

The fan speed is also a manual adjustment: Simply turn the knob on the back of the fan head. This model offers a feature that most tabletop fans typically don’t—an LED light, which makes it an excellent option for use after the sun goes down. Just remember to charge the battery, and you’ll have a great little fan that goes anywhere. 

Get the Runtop quiet fan at Amazon

Best Pedestal

Vornado Energy Smart Medium Pedestal Air Circulator

 The Vornado Energy Smart Medium Pedestal Air Circulator on a white background.
Photo: amazon.com

Pros

  • Operates at low decibels for minimal distractions
  • Adjustable height and tilting fan head make it possible to direct the breeze
  • Features a wide base that supports the fan well; less likely to tip over

Cons

  • No-frills fan—no oscillation, no timer function, and no remote control

Our Ratings: Setup 4/5; Cooling 4.5/5; Noise 4.5/5; Features 5/5; Value 5/5 

Product Specs 

  • Type: Pedestal 
  • Decibel rating: 56 dB
  • Remote control: No

From one of the top fan manufacturers comes the Vornado Energy Smart Air Circulator that can effectively cool a room without making a lot of noise. The fan offers adjustable height: We lowered it to 32 inches and raised it to 38 inches by twisting a plastic connector on the base pole and pulling it to the desired height. 

This model is a direct breeze fan. While it doesn’t oscillate, the fan head tilts up and down, making it possible to circulate air right where we want it. The manufacturer notes the Vornado fan registers 56 dB at the highest speed, and our tests confirmed that number. At the lowest speed, it registered just 38 dB on our tester. Like some of the other fans we tested, the Vornado Air Circulator produces a calming sound, much like white noise, and we found it easy to relax while it was running.

This fan would be an ideal option for a nursery or bedroom where the user wants to direct the cooling breeze in a specific direction. It lacks bells and whistles like a timer function and a remote control, but it features a very quiet DC motor, quality materials, and a broad base that makes it stable and less likely to tip. 

Get the Vornado quiet fan at Amazon, Lowe’s, Walmart, or Best Buy

Jump to Our Top Picks

What to Consider When Choosing a Quiet Fan

Quiet fans are available in various types and sizes. Shoppers may choose from small clip-on or tabletop fans that focus a cooling current of air over a limited area. Alternatively, larger fans in tower and pedestal styles are better suited for covering entire rooms. 

Options for airspeed and power settings vary among fans, as well as convenient features like portability, a remote control, and an automatic timer. Read on to investigate a few vital considerations before selecting the best quiet fan for your particular needs.

Type

Based on room size, configuration, and cooling needs, shoppers can choose among several types of quiet fans.

  • Clip-on fans offer focused, directional airflow for individual comfort when clipped to a headboard, table, desk, or shelf.
  • Tabletop fans provide portable air circulation. Place an oscillating tabletop fan on a desk, nightstand, dresser, or table for a cooling breeze.
  • Tower fans stand on the floor and tend to be larger than tabletop fans, although they are typically lightweight enough to allow portability from room to room. With a slender cylindrical profile, tower fans don’t occupy much floor space.
  • Pedestal fans stand on the floor like tower fans, but their shape resembles a circular fan unit atop a vertical pole. With their large size and oscillating capabilities, pedestal fans provide whole-room cooling. However, the caged design can make cleaning dust or debris from the blades challenging. 
  • Bladeless fans operate via an air multiplier system that utilizes moving blades or a brushless electric motor hidden in the base. These moving parts pull air in and push it through a tube, blowing the air at a high velocity from holes or slitlike vents. The blades are not visible, require minimal cleaning, and do not pose a safety hazard for children or pets. Manufacturers offer bladeless models in both tabletop and tower fans.

Size

When considering a quiet fan, shoppers might think about their available space and particular cooling needs. The dimensions of fans vary in their footprint and their height.

Clip-on fans are the smallest size and take up zero space on a floor or a table. Although they do not broadcast a breeze throughout the room, these fans provide focused cooling for individual comfort. 

Tabletop fans offer more widespread cooling capabilities than clip-on fans. The typical footprint ranges from approximately 6 inches long by 6 inches wide to 12 inches long by 10 inches wide, and they stand about 10 to 15 inches tall. 

Tower and pedestal fans are the largest sizes. These fans are designed for placement on a floor and often oscillate to offer whole-room cooling. Tower fans are typically about 11 inches long by 11 inches wide to 13 inches long by 13 inches wide, and pedestal fans are a bit larger. Both pedestal and tower fans range in height from around 30 to 48 inches. 

Power and Speed

Quiet fans offer airflow settings that affect the speed at which air blows into the room. Some fans feature modes of operation, including normal, natural, and sleep. The sleep mode ensures the quietest setting to minimize noise while providing a cool breeze for sleeping. 

In addition to modes, quiet fans also feature airspeed settings, including low, medium, high, and highest. Alternatively, some models boast settings with descriptive names like white noise, refresh, and power cool. The lower settings produce the least noise and the gentlest breeze.

Larger fans produce extra cooling power via a more robust motor, making these models desirable for whole-room cooling. Smaller fans with a less powerful motor offer directional cooling for focused areas of a room or individual comfort.

Controls and Timers

Quiet fans feature controls for on/off functioning and to modify the airflow’s speed, power, oscillation, and timing. While buttons on the base of most units provide manual operation, many quiet fans offer the added convenience of a remote control. With remote operation, you can control the fan without leaving the comfort of your couch or bed.

Many quiet fans feature programmable timing functions for automatic shutoff after a preset time. Additionally, some models include operating cycles that promote ideal conditions for nighttime sleeping. These cycles reduce the power and airflow speed over time, producing prime cooling at the beginning of the nighttime sleep cycle and reducing the airspeed and power throughout the night.

Advanced technology enables users to operate smart fans via a smartphone app. Voice activation is available with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri. Wi-Fi capability and voice controls create ultimate convenience for the operation of smart fans.

Portability

Although the bedroom may be the optimal location for a quiet fan, it’s equally effective in home offices, living rooms, workshops, or anywhere else in the home. For this reason, shoppers might investigate portability when purchasing the best quiet fan for their needs.

A small clip-on fan is optimally portable at approximately 2 pounds or less. However, it offers limited directional cooling capability. Tabletop fans range in weight from around 2 to 7 pounds, making them conveniently portable for use in various locations throughout the home.

Pedestal and tower fans are larger and heavier than clip-on and tabletop models. Weighing in at approximately 6 to 8 pounds, tower fans feature handles that increase portability. Pedestal fans vary in weight from about 11 to 15 pounds, making them the least portable type of quiet fan.

Noise Level

When the objective is to provide a cool and quiet atmosphere conducive to comfortable sleep, the noise level of a fan becomes an important consideration. The forcefulness or amplitude of sound is measured in decibels, and greater noise levels produce higher decibel levels. For example, the noise level of normal conversation in the home is approximately 50 to 60 dB, while the noise level of a helicopter at 500 feet is about 87 dB. 

In general, quiet fans produce approximately 25 to 35 dB of noise on their lowest settings and 40 to 58 dB of noise on their highest settings, depending on the type of fan. Lower settings and sleep modes produce less noise than higher airspeed settings. Bladeless fans have gained popularity in recent years because they operate at a lower noise level than bladed fans. 

Additional Features

Many quiet fans offer additional features that enhance their usefulness. One of the most useful functions is oscillation. When a fan oscillates, it turns from side to side, altering the airflow direction slowly and consistently. 

Some quiet fans feature an LED display that allows users to see the power and airspeed settings in the dark. Many units also feature an automatic shutoff for the LED display after 15 to 30 seconds when the fan is in sleep mode to ensure an adequately dark sleeping environment. 

Some fans offer a pivoting head that allows you to aim the airflow at a higher or a lower level for focused cooling. For pedestal fans, the adjustable height function permits you to modify the level of airflow in the room.

FAQs 

A quiet fan can create a comfortable sleeping atmosphere while lowering home energy costs by easing the work of an air conditioning system. However, the wide array of types, sizes, power options, and features can make it challenging to find the best quiet fan for your needs. Read on for answers to several of the most frequently asked questions.

Q. Are bladeless fans quieter?

Yes. Bladeless fans tend to be quieter than traditional bladed fans. They are also more energy efficient, safer for homes with children and pets, and easier to clean after accumulating dust. 

Q. How many decibels is a quiet fan?

The quietest fan produces approximately 25 to 30 dB of noise on the lowest setting and 40 to 50 dB of noise on the highest setting. Many quiet fans have an average volume of 35 dB.

Q. How many decibels is too loud for a fan?

A noise level above 60 dB is too loud for a quiet household fan. For comparison, a normal conversation in the home is approximately 50 to 60 dB, and whispering is usually about 30 dB.

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Additional research provided by Carol Benton.

The post The Best Quiet Fans to Keep You Cool and Comfortable, Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.

]]>
160598