Looking to elevate your summer experience with a budget friendly backyard makeover? Or perhaps you do a lot of camping or RV travel and are looking for a great portable spa. Either way, I got you!!! I was sent this 4-6 person Relxtime inflatable hot tub to review and it is, in a word, AMAZING, I'll go on a limb and say the best 2024 inflatable hot tub! But you don't have to take my word for it - watch my detailed video below to see how easy it is to unbox, inflate, fill, heat up, and enjoy the BEST inflatable hot tub!! More details and links below about this portable jacuzzi and other ways to elevate your backyard this summer!
Why we're loving this inflatable hot tub from Relxtime:
OK, time to shop!!!
Disclaimer: as an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from purchases made with the following links): BUY THE HOT TUB HERE:
OTHER PRODUCTS YOU MAY NEED OR WANT:
Here are some other products we've elevated our backyard with (review videos below):
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As soon as babies start pulling up and toddling around, our space becomes their space. Throw pillows and couch cushions can be found strewn across the room. As they grow older, they're not just pulling things down, they're building them up! Forts for make believe and stacks for jumping on! It's amazing... and also a wee bit frustrating for parents. We have a massive Ikea Kivik sofa with 13 couch cushions (plus 6 throw pillows). There was a time when more than half of these would go missing on a daily basis LOL!!
But, there is a solution! Kids play sofas!! And there is a new one in town that blows the others out of the water, with the game changer being included WATERPROOF LINERS!!! I'm so excited to be working with Acorn Couch on this sponsored review (and GIVEAWAY - enter to win in the Rafflecopter app at the bottom), so let's get to it!!
Founded and run by NJ mom of 3, Brittany Amoscat, who was frustrated by the other options on the market that were too expensive and also not waterproof, Acorn Couch is the newest kids sofa on the block and we are absolutely loving ours!! Here are some of the standout features we know you'll love, too:
When folded in half, they fit perfectly under our kids' beds! So they stow away quickly and easily, and can be pulled out in an instant to play or host a sleepover!
Many think kids' sofas are just for toddlers, but these will really grow with your kiddos!! Here are some of the ways my kids (and us parents, too) use ours:
We just love these and know you will, too!! Click here to learn more about Acorn Couch and shop, and enter to win in the Rafflecopter app below!
GIVEAWAY! ENTER TO WIN HERE!!
You just need to leave a comment and register in the app to let it know you did so, any extra actions taken such as sharing on social will be extra points earned to increase your chance at winning! US Residents ages 18+ only, giveaway ends April 9 at 11:59PM ET, winner will be randomly chosen and emailed after that!
At home IPL hair removal devices are all the rage these days. But do IPL devices actually work, permanently?? Does IPL hurt? Isn't IPL expensive?? I've got all those questions, too, which is why I'm so excited to be collaborating with Ulike (backed with 10 years of research and 4 million users!) , who has sent me their incredibly popular Air3 IPL Hair Removal Device to test out for you guys...
(GIVEAWAY OVER BUT COUPON CODE IS STILL ACTIVE) What's more?? Enter to WIN ONE in my giveaway below (TWO winners!!), or just go ahead and buy one on Amazon** or get $80 off one with code UGCULIKE on ulike.com** with code UGCULIKE (disclaimer: as a Share a Sale and Amazon Affiliate, I receive commission after clicking my affiliate links, noted with **) WHAT IS IPL? IPL (Intense Pulse Light) devices basically shoot out a targeted pulse of hot multi spectrum light - it travels down the shaft of the hair and damages the root so hair can no longer grow there. But it only damages follicles of hair in the active growth (anagen) phase. Roots/Hair in the transition (catagen), resting (telegen), or shedding (exogen) phases will be unbothered by the IPL, which is why you have to keep up with the treatments for many weeks before all of the follicles have had a chance to get zapped. Ulike says you should notice visible results within 2 weeks and 90% hair reduction within 4 weeks.
DOES IPL HURT?
The short answer is, it can... I had it done professionally on my armpits in Japan over a decade ago and it HURT!! Like rubber bands snapping on my skin. But, it worked!! I haven't shaved my arm pits in over 10 years, there were maybe 5 hairs that remained in each pit after my several treatments spaced out over a few months. And over the decade and 3 pregnancies and now perimenopause (yes, hormones can trigger hair follicles to do crazy things), maybe 5 more grew back? But I just plucked them out and haven't dealt with a single ingrown hair or anything since my IPL treatment. It has been amazing!!! But... it hurt... so I was really not believing all the influencers out there reviewing Ulike, saying it doesn't hurt. but... keep reading...
DOES Ulike IPL Hurt?
NO! I could NOT believe it. Shock, utter shock, grateful shock!!! Utilizing a Sapphire Ice Cooling technology (you can hear the fan running), it retains a cool 65°F contact temperature and has an ice cold kind of feeling so it stays cool, there's no heat or zapping feeling, it's just amazing!!! This cooling tech, together with a UV filter, helps protect your skin and makes treatment completely painless!
Is IPL Expensive?
Well, it's not cheap... going to a medspa / treatment center will certainly be the most expensive. Not to mention time consuming. Buying an IPL device will be more affordable, not to mention you have it to use for the long haul, so if some hair grows back after a pregnancy, or you develop chin hairs after menopause, well, grab that IPL device and get to work LOL! And don't forget, you can enter to win one from Ulike below or get $80 off with code UGCULIKE on ulike.com**!!
Does Ulike IPL work??
Time will tell in regard to my personal experience... I just started treating my armpits, bikini line, and lower legs so I'll check back in regularly with any results and will do a final long form video with the final before and after!! But my sister's dermatologist actually recommended Ulike to her, saying it's just as good as what they use in their office! WHAT!?? So, I am feeling really good about the results being amazing!!
ENTER TO WIN
the Ulike Air 3 IPL Hair Removal Device:
Giveaway open to US residents ages 18+. Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM ET on Thursday, January 25. TWO winners will be randomly selected and contacted via email and/or social media and given 48 hours to confirm. REQUIRED: leaving a blog comment and telling the Rafflecopter app that you did so. More entry points may be earned with additional actions :) Good luck!!
As a non-driving twin mom who had 3 kids under 3 years old for a hot minute, I know ALL. THE. THINGS. about hauling multiple kids around the city to parks, restaurants, and schools, and what features are essential in a good stroller. A self-proclaimed "stroller addict", this is actually my FIFTEENTH stroller / wagon review. You're with a pro here ;) So let's get going!!
I'm here to show you everything you need to know about the Gladly Family Anthem2 Wagon Stroller, which I was paid to review, but please know my reviews are always 100% unbiased - all thoughts and opinions are my own! Click below to watch the full unboxing, assembly, and demo, and read on for detailed info, photos, and links to buy the Anthem2 (2-seater) or Anthem4 (4-seater) wagon strollers! (Full disclosure: affiliate links are included below - you don't pay more but I receive a small commission from qualified purchases after clicking)
Features I love on the Anthem2 Wagon Stroller:
Who is this wagon stroller best for?
BUY the Anthem2 and other Gladly Family Wagons Strollers & Accessories here:
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From kids washing slime down the sink to postpartum hair loss creating a monstrocity in the shower pipes, drain clogs happen to the best of us. If you're wondering how to unclog a sink or tub, and how to keep it unclogged, you've come to the right. place!! Before calling an expensive plumber or trying DIY chemicals or a snake that could irreversibly damage your pipes, I have 2 great products to recommend to you!! Watch this video and read on for more, including links to purchase!!
**Disclaimer: this post was sponsored by Plungeroo but all thoughts and opinions are my own :) Also, affiliate links are included below - you don't pay more but we receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking
HOW TO UNCLOG A SINK OR TUB DRAIN:
STEP 1: Buy a Plungeroo Mini Sink Plunger!! This thing is a true powerhouse, and at just about 6" tall, it stores away compacting under any sink, in a linen closet, you name it - ready to pull out and use any time, day or night! It has a plastic handle that makes it really easy to hold and to plunge, not the typical straight stick you may be used to, this one is super easy to use! The bottom part is a durable rubber, and will fit almost any sink, bathtub, or shower drain creating a strong seal and powerful force to drain the most stubborn of clogs - no chemicals or snakes needed!! What's more? They're non-toxic, rust resistant, and come in 3 great color options!! Click my affiliate link here to buy!
STEP 2: PLUNGE!
But it's not quite that simple. Whether plunging a toilet, a sink, a shower, or any other drain, the key is to fill the plunger with liquid. If you have enough in the clogged area, simply tip the plunger a bit to the side to let it fill up. If you don't have enough liquid, add some water (I know I know, filling up a clogged area MORE is counterintuitive but trust me). When you have the plunger filled with liquid rather than air, it will send a much more powerful force down into the drain. Before learning this tip a year ago, I could never plunge our toilet successfully. I made a huge mess, and ended up in tears having to finally call a plumber. But since learning this trick?? I am the plunging QUEEEEEEN!!!! Literally, nothing I can't plunge on the first try. No splashes. No drama. SO EASY!!!
RELATED ARTICLE: How to eliminate odors naturally with ElectriFresh!
STEP 3: PREVENTION
We can't prevent every drain clog or blockage, but we can certainly prevent many with a good drain cover!! Personally, I love TubShroom / SinkShroom / Kitchen SinkShroom, they come in stainless steel or silicone, they do a crazy good job at catching ALL YOUR HAIR out of sight!! It catches it under the top part so you don't have to see it til you pull it out to clean it! They make it in stainless steel or silicone, and different versions for tub, sink, kitchen sink, or combos:
I hope you found this post helpful!! If you love product reviews, be sure to subscribe to Our Favorite Things Reviewed on YouTube or follow my Amazon Storefront!
I was sent a bottle of ElectriFresh to review as part of a sponsored campaign. I didn't know what to expect. I mean, it's just "electrolyzed oxygenated water" (i.e. water, salt, and electricity). HOW COULD THAT POSSIBLY WORK!?? Can it get rid of fish smell? Can it remove smell from towels? Get rid of cigarette smell and cat urine!??!
I told them, straight up, if it doesn't work, I can't do the review. Do you think it worked?? Well... you're here on the reivew so... HA! YES! IT IS AMAZING!!!!! Watch my fun video below and keep reading:
I don't understand the science behind it. I prefer to just call it magic. But check out the bottle label below - this electrolyzed deodorizer is safe for people, pets, and the planet. That's a win win win for me!!
Our guinea pig fleece liners that used to carry a very specific odor even after washing (if you have dogs or cats or caged animals and deal with pet urine you know what I'm talking about). But magically after a spray, these liners are fresh as they were new. WHAT THE WHAT!?? This spray will neutralize odors (not cover it up with perfumes!) - we're talking shoes, sports and gym equipment, litter boxes, pet odors and stains, fabrics, bedding, you name it!! But you don't have to take my word for it. Buy a bottle of ElectriFresh** and try it out yourself (don't forget to come back and leave a comment letting us all know your thoughts!!) **Above is an affiliate link - as an Amazon associate, I receive commission from qualified purchases made after clicking the link. Want to read more from me?? Hit the main blog and scroll through awesome articles from family travel reviews to DIY hair tips, or search by category (on the side bar on a computer, or the top menu on a phone!)
By taking better care of our teeth and gums, we can cut down on costly dental procedures and have a more beautiful and healthy smile! Brush twice a day and floss daily. We know, we know...
But did you know a good sonic toothbrush can help clean your teeth significantly better?? Or so says my kids' dentist, anyway! Now there's a SMART sonic toothbrush that PAIRS TO AN APP to suggest which mode is best for your teeth, to monitor how well you brush, remind you when to replace your toothbrush head, and so much more!! Watch my unboxing and demo below and read on for more details and learn how to buy yours from Beheart, who sponsored this review! What makes this electronic toothbrush so special? Well, let's see...
I was once a queen of the stroller review scene. We've owned and reviewed a dozen or so strollers over the years of my twins plus one being little. From tiny travel sized strollers to a triple stroller and everything in between. It's been a few years so I was really excited for this collaboration with Mompush, who sent me their Ultimate 2 Stroller to review and share with you all!! Check out my full unboxing, demo, and review video (embedded right below) and keep reading for more details and my affiliate link (this bad boy comes with SO MUCH GREAT STUFF and sells for under $500 - I can't even believe it!!)
What comes with the Mompush Ultimate 2 Stroller??
The Bassinet
It lays quite flat for easy storage and is quick to pop up and lock into bassinet mode. There is a thick foam insert so it'll be comfy for newborns, though I highly advise buying an infant head support pillow like this one (just don't use it in a car seat!). It comes with a nice thick cover you can zipper on to keep baby warmer, that is easy to zip open or remove completely in warmer months. The canopy is a good size with a quiet (no velcro) peekaboo mesh window, and there's a canopy extension panel you can zip on to make it go past the vertical point, which is great for nap time!! The leatherette belly bar can be used as a handle on the bassinet, giving it a beautiful look and making it easy to transport the bassinet, just don't pick it up with baby inside. Maximum weight for the bassinet is 9kg (about 20 pounds) and you'll want to make sure you stop using it before baby can sit up or pull up as there is no seat belt or strap in it. The bassinet is designed to lay at a slight angle so that baby's head will never be downward, which is great! It jiggles ever so slightly when walking, completely safe and normal movement that may actually help lull your little one to sleep!!
The Toddler Seat
Stick with the bassinet or car seat until baby is at least 6 months old and can sit up unaided, then you're ready for the toddler seat! With a maximum weight capacity of 50 pounds, this toddler seat has a nice 5 point harness and reclines from nice and vertical to fully flat position with an easy one-handed recline lever! It has an adjustable foot rest making for a super comfy ride! It's really quick and easy to reverse the seat from forward facing to parent facing, which I've always found a great feature in strollers. I like to have baby facing me for walks, but if we're going out and needing them to take a nap, I face them forward and don't fight sleep as hard. The canopy is amazing, going past vertical, with a special zippered section that is fully mesh and great for strolling in warmer months. It also has a silent (no velcro) peekaboo mesh window.
Why I love it:
The Mompush Ultimate 2 Stroller comes in 3 great colors!!
Click my affiliate link to buy one on Amazon today or check it out on mompush.com!
We just got sent the Simcam Baby Pro AI Smart Baby Monitor for review by Simshine and it is AMAZING!!! Watch my full review (on my brand new Our Favorite Things Reviewed YouTube channel) and read on for more details and a special discount code!!
My favorite features about this baby monitor include:
BUY IT NOW!! (affiliate links follow): Get $30 off with code usja on simshinemall.com or buy on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I receive commission from purchases made after clicking the above affiliate link.
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by New Bee but all thoughts and opinions are my own and unbiased. This post also contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I receive commission from purchases made after clicking.
If you're looking for the best kids headphones, you're in luck, cuz I've just found them!! Say hello to the KH-20 Headphones by New Bee!! If you are new to the market of headphones for kids, there are a few features you may not even know you need to look for, so let me go over some of those and some of the *extras* I'm loving about these from New Bee:
Kid Safe Volume Control:
According to the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics),1 in 6 teens has a type of high frequency hearing loss attributed to exposure to loud noises such as listening to music too loud on their headphones. How loud is too loud? To put it (too) simply, if you can hear sound from the headphones your child is listening to, the volume is too loud. Buying headphones specifically meant to control the max decibel level is important, such as these headhpones by New Be that have a switch to max the volume at either 85 or 95 decibels. Some headphones have an even lower setting, which you may want to consider, but they're often too quiet to hear when using on an airplane or other setting with background noise. These New Bee headphones seem to be perfect - loud enough to hear on a plane, but not loud enough to damage hearing. That said, you should try to limit the time on headphones as decibel level isn't the only factor at play, duration of exposure is as well.
Internal Mic
Whether your child will be gaming, doing remote learning, or Skyping with grandparents, an internal microphone is key! But some microphones stick out and are easily broken. I love the mic on the New Bee headphones because it's very discreet, right on the cord's little volume toggle switch!
Plug & Play
Sure, cordless is nice because you aren't tied to a device, and they won't get knotted up. BUT... you also have to worry about keeping them charged, not to mention connection errors or even concerns about child's exposure to bluetooth. Personally, I appreciate a good corded headphone like these! This one has a durable braided nylon cord. No charging. No drama when your child's device doesn't support bluetooth. No worries!
Comfy for Ears & Head
Some headphones are just so uncomfortable. I find ear buds the worst, not only do they hurt after a while, they can also get super gross from ear wax! ICK!! Especially for my kids, I prefer a traditional style headphone, and the ear pieces on these New Bee headphones are SO SO SO soft and comfy!! The head strap is also made of a soft and smooth material, not hard plastic or metal, meaning it's comfy and also very flexible. I'm in love with these!! Not to mention how cute they are!! Coming in 6 color options, with a cute design on the outside of the ear piece!
Compact Fold
Headphones are often brought along on road trips and air travel, thrown in backpacks etc. So, a compact fold is really important! The ear pieces on these New Bee headphones fold in and out really easily, even your child can do it!
Adjustable
It's key for any headphones to be adjustable, not just for kids. These children's headphones by New Bee are adjustable, but not a whole lot. I was surprised that the longest setting actually fit me so I will totally be borrowing these from my kids LOL! I don't think they would fit a toddler well, they might work in a pinch but these are designed for children ages 4 - 16.
BUY THEM NOW :)
If you're looking for a pair of headphones for your child, I highly recommend these KH-20 by New Bee!! Grab them on Amazon (affiliate link) or use code USJF to get 15% off your order on their website anewbee.com.
See them featured in our Christmas Gift Haul video here: |
About ME:I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins plus 1), focusing on fun and honest product and travel reviews, saving moms time finding the best for their families! Find what you need in the menu bar or search section above! Categories
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