We conducted a year-long focus group of multiracial individuals to determine the best DNA test. We selected 23andMe as the most user-friendly in providing the most detailed information about ancestry. If you're looking to find living relatives, we also recommend AncestryDNA.
Bethany Wilk
We tested eight of the best lightweight vacuums and chose the Shark - Rocket HV302 as the best corded vacuum for everyday and heavy-duty cleaning. We also picked the Eureka - NEC22 as the best cordless lightweight vacuum.
We blind-tested 35 mascaras to find which one made our eyelashes the longest, fullest and most striking. By far and away, the best was Giorgio Armani - Eyes to Kill.
After months of snoozing on the top mattress toppers on the market, we've found that the HOFISH - Gel Infused Memory Foam can't be beat for comfort, cushioning and spinal support.
We tested eight of the best hair straightening brushes on the market to determine which straightened curly and wavy hair the best. Ultimately, the MiroPure - 2-in-1 was our top choice.
We spent weeks testing ten of the top fans on the market, and found that the Vornado - Vfan blew away the competition.
After weeks spent comparing 10 towels for softness, durability, absorbency, and everything in between, we've found that Lauren Home makes the best bath towel.
We spent 30 hours on research and four months of in-house testing before choosing the Dyson - V7 Trigger as our best handheld vacuum.
After weeks of researching and hands-on testing eight of the top stick vacs available, we feel confident recommending the best stick vacuum overall, a corded unit by Shark, and a powerhouse cordless model by Dyson.
After 30+ hours of research and four months of in-house testing with eight top products, we feel confident in recommending the Dyson - V7 Trigger as the best handheld vacuum, even if it comes at a premium.
After many hours of research and two months of testing, our recommendation for the best heating pad is the Thermaphore - MaxHEAT. This one's geared for the best pain relief and usability.
We spent 30 hours on research and even more testing seven finalists and feel confident in recommending the RUSK - W8less as the all-around best hair dryer. It's technology packed, and loaded with power and settings for versatility.
We spent 30 hours researching and a month of testing to find that Puracy is the best baby detergent that has a gentle formula and effective stain removal capabilities.
After long-term testing of steam mops, we've chosen the Shark Genius - S5003D as the best steam mop overall. The Sharper Image - SI-160 is a dual-purpose steam mop that can be used to clean floors and other surfaces. A great budget pick is the Shark S1000.
The average household washes 50+ pounds of clothes a week, so it's important to have a detergent you can rely on. We spent over 45 hours researching and testing to find the best laundry detergent for your laundry room.
We spent more than 40 hours testing the most popular electric blankets, and determined that the SoftHeat Ultra Micro-Plush offers premium quality without a premium price.
Over two months and 40 hours of direct cleaning, we were able to come up with a clear winner for our best cleaning sponge test.