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Showing posts with label Margaret Schindel. Show all posts

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

The Best Affordable LED Light for Selfies, Social Media, Zoom Calls

The Newmowa 60 LED High Power Rechargeable Clip Fill Video Conference Light is a versatile and portable lighting solution designed to enhance video quality for video conferencing, selfies, vlogging, TikTok, and more.

With its compact size, front and back clip options, adjustable brightness, and three light modes, this LED light works with a variety of devices, including mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and more. This makes it ideal for anyone looking to improve their lighting for virtual meetings (professional or family get-togethers) or social media content.

The best affordable clip-on LED fill light for mobile phones, tablets, and laptops

Whether I'm on a Zoom call with my family members on the other side of the country or just snapping a quick photo or selfie, getting a decent picture requires good lighting. That nearly always means a supplementary light source vs. just ambient lighting. Recently, frustrated with the need to lug my large, folding, rechargeable LED lamp around to light my shots or video calls, I decided to order a clip-on LED light recommended by a friend who is a beauty influencer on social media.

I couldn't be more pleased with the Newmova Mobile Phone LED Light (model SL-60AI), for which I paid a little more than $30 on Amazon.

Here are some examples of photos I took using only ambient room light and then with the Newmova clip-on LED light on different color temperature settings so you can see the difference it makes.

Photo of bowl of potpourri - ambient room light only

Photo of bowl of potpourri - with Newmova LED light cool setting

Photo of bowl of potpourri - with Newmova LED light warm setting

Photo of bowl of potpourri - with Newmova LED light daylight (mixed cool/warm) setting

The difference in the detail, color, and picture quality of these simple photos taken with an iPhone 11 Pro Max phone is striking, isn't it?

Design and Features

Compact and Portable: This clip-on LED light features a sleek design that is small enough to fit easily into a drawer, pocket or bag, ensuring that your lighting solution is always accessible and making it ideal for on-the-go use.
Front and Back Clip Options: The included front and back clips allow for easy attachment to smartphones, tablets, and laptops, ensuring a secure and adjustable fit. This dual clip system enhances its versatility by allowing it to be mounted on different devices or even standalone setups. Both jaws of the clothespin-style clip are lined with rubber for a secure attachment and to avoid marring your devices. The jaws also open wide enough to accommodate even very thick phone cases as well as mounting on a laptop screen.
Rechargeable Battery: This clip-on LED light is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for external power sources and providing freedom and convenience. A full charge offers several hours of usage, depending on the brightness level you choose.
Adjustable Lighting Modes: The light offers three lighting modes with three different color temperatures: warm light (3200K), cool light (5600K), and daylight mode (mixed), allowing users to adapt the lighting to different environments, preferences, and skin tones. So, it’s easy to get more flattering selfies or look better in Zoom calls.
10 Brightness Levels: Within each lighting mode, you can easily adjust the brightness to achieve the desired level of illumination and light intensity, ensuring that details are highlighted without overexposure in photo and video applications.
Durable Construction: The light is built to withstand everyday use, with a sturdy construction that ensures long-lasting performance.

The Newmowa SL-60AI clip-on mobile LED light comes with two mounting attachments, a USB cord for charging the rechargeable battery, and an instruction leaflet.

Performance and Usage

Bright and Even Illumination: The 60 high-power LEDs provide ample brightness, effectively illuminating subjects and reducing shadows. The light distribution is generally even, ensuring consistent lighting across the scene to ensure clear visibility during video calls or content creation. I have been extremely impressed with the brightness of this small, compact, clip-on LED light!
Battery Life: The rechargeable battery offers a decent battery life, allowing for extended use on a single charge. However, the exact battery life may vary depending on usage patterns and environmental factors.
Ease of Use: The light is simple to use, with intuitive controls that allow for quick adjustments to the lighting settings. As you can see in the photo, there is a power button that not only powers the light on and off, but can be pressed repeatedly while the light is powered on to rotate among the three color temperature settings. There are also two smaller buttons to turn the brightness up or down. The clip mechanism is also easy to operate and provides a secure hold on devices.

The Newmowa Mobile Phone LED Light control buttons are simple and intuitive

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Compact and portable design
Versatile clip for easy attachment
Rechargeable battery for convenience
Adjustable lighting modes and brightness levels
Durable construction

Cons:

Color rendering may vary slightly
Battery life may be limited for heavy users

A Great Gift for Anyone

Since most people spend a considerable amount of time on their mobile phones, tablets, and laptops and sharing photos and videos (of themselves, others, products they love, etc.) on social media or by email, the Newmowa clip-on mobile phone LED light would make a welcome gift at an affordable price.

Newmowa 60 LED High Power Rechargeable Clip Fill Video Conference Light with Front & Back Clip, Adjusted 3 Light Modes for Phone, iPhone, Android, iPad, Laptop, for Makeup, TikTok, Selfie, Vlog

Conclusion

The Newmowa 60 LED High Power Rechargeable Clip Fill Video Conference Light is a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve the quality of their photos or videos, especially on the go. The compact size, light weight, versatile clip/mounting options, adjustable lighting modes and brightness levels, and rechargeable battery make this clip-on LED light a very convenient and effective choice for a wide range of applications. The overall performance and ease of use make it a solid pick for someone who wants to enhance their photo and video content quickly, easily and affordably.

The Best Affordable LED Light for Selfies, Social Media, Zoom Calls by Margaret Schindel

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

DRMTLY TINGL Exfoliating Pads — The Best Affordable AHA/BHA Peel Pads

Our skin is the body's largest organ and the one most exposed to environmental stressors. It's no wonder it's one of the first places to show the signs of aging as we get older. Fortunately, no matter your age, good skincare can make an enormous difference in the appearance and health of your skin.

Facial exfoliation can help us achieve smoother, clearer, brighter, more youthful complexion. Physical exfoliation methods use either tools (such as a washcloth or exfoliating sponge) or facial cleansers or masks containing very small granules or spheres (such as sugar crystals, microbeads, or ground seeds) to physically slough off dead skin cells from the topmost layer of the epidermis. Chemical exfoliation uses one or more topical acids — alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and/or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to weaken the bonds that hold the dead skin cells on the surface and allow them to slough away easily during cleansing.

I have used both physical and chemical facial exfoliation products at a wide range of prices. Today, I'm sharing my favorite affordable, high-quality chemical exfoliating product, the TINGL exfoliating peed pads from DRMTLGY, one of my favorite reasonably priced skincare brands. In future reviews, I will also share my favorite affordable physical exfoliation skincare products.

DRMTLY TINGL Exfoliating Pads for smooth, clear skin

DRMTLGY TINGL Exfoliating Pads are provide a convenient and effective solution for at-home facial exfoliation. These pads smooth and brighten the skin, minimize pores, and improve overall skin texture, helping to revitalize the complexion.

What Types of Skin Concerns Do These Exfoliating Peel Pads Target?

DRMTLGY TINGL Exfoliating Pads are suitable for all skin types.

They help reduce the appearance of pore size and create a smoother looking skin texture by unclogging pores

Key Ingredients

A combination of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, botanical and fruit extracts, and humectants make these AHA/BHA exfoliating peel pads extremely effective but also gentle on the skin.

Glycolic acid is a powerful alpha-hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate the skin by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be sloughed away. This ingredient is known for its ability to brighten the skin, improve texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Lactic acid is another AHA that gently exfoliates the skin while providing hydration. It helps improve skin texture and tone without being too harsh, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into the pores to remove excess oil and debris, making it especially beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin. It helps reduce the appearance of pores and prevents future breakouts.

Other notable ingredients include grapefruit peel extract and cucumber fruit extract (antioxidants), chamomile flower extract (anti-inflammatory), aloe extract (soothing, humectant, and antioxidant), and glycerin and beta glucan, humectants that add moisture to the skin, ensuring that the exfoliation process does not leave the skin feeling dry or tight. These humectants can also improve the skin texture, strengthen the barrier function and enhance the penetration of other ingredients.

Textured Surface

These DRMTLGY TINGL exfoliating pads also have a waffle-patterned, textured surface that helps provide a light, gentle physical exfoliation as well as a chemical one, helping to lift off the loosened, dead skin cells on the outermost layer of the epidermis.

How Well Do They Work?

As you might expect from the name, DRMTLGY TINGL Exfoliating Pads create a tingling sensation that indicates that the alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids are working to exfoliate the skin. Since I started using them consistently report that with consistent use, their skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and has a more refined texture. The combination of AHAs and BHAs helps target multiple skin concerns, such as dullness, uneven texture, and enlarged pores. Also, even though I am not generally acne-prone, I find that blemishes are rare since I started exfoliating regularly with these peel pads.

While I can attribute some of my youthful appearance to good genes, my 70-year-old skin looks much better and more youthful today than it did five years ago, when I started getting serious about following a good skincare routine.

Me one month after my 70th birthday

Gentle, Yet Effective

For women and men with mature skin, these pads offer a great way to incorporate both chemical exfoliation and very light physical exfoliation into a skincare routine in one simple, quick and easy step. The presence of beta glucan helps counteract any potential dryness from the acids, making the pads gentle enough for daily use.

Key Benefits

Effective Exfoliation: The combination of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids and the textured pads provide gentle yet thorough exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover for clearer, smoother skin and a brighter, more even skin tone.

Multi-Benefit Formula: In addition to exfoliating, the pads also hydrate and brighten the skin, offering a comprehensive skincare treatment.

Improves Skin Texture: Regular use can lead to noticeably smoother, softer, younger-looking skin, with reduced pore size and less noticeable fine lines.

Quick and Simple to Use: The pre-soaked pads are a quick and easy addition that can enhance your existing skincare routine.

Made in the USA With High Quality Ingredients: These dermatologist-recommended facial peel pads are paraben-free, sulfate-free, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and fragrance-free.

Usage Tips

If your skin barrier is healthy and your skin tolerates AHAs and BHAs well, you can use these as often as twice daily, depending on your skin type and needs.

However, if your skin is extremely sensitive or you have rosacea, these peel pads may be a bit too intense for you. I recommend trying one package and starting slowly, maybe once a week, to see how your skin tolerates it. If that works for you, you can slowly increase the frequency, as tolerated.

After cleansing your face and patting it dry, remove one DRMTLY TINGL exfoliating pad from the jar and immediately close the jar tightly to prevent the remaining pads from drying out.

Wipe the peel pad over your face in circular motions. Avoiding contact with the eye area and the lips.

Do not scrub! Scrubbing can damage your skin barrier and irritate your skin. If used properly, the pads will provide a gradual, safe exfoliation with consistent, regular use.

IMPORTANT: When using these pads in the morning, after exfoliating your skin and applying the rest of your skincare, ALWAYS USE A BROAD-SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN with an SPF of 30 or higher, regardless of the weather! Exfoliating acids increase sensitivity to the sun's rays.

A Great Addition to Any Skincare Routine

The DRMTLGY TINGL Exfoliating Pads are a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their skincare routine with a chemical exfoliation product that is both gentle and effective. With consistent use, these pads can help reveal a more youthful, radiant complexion, making them a valuable addition to any skincare regimen, particularly for those looking to address signs of aging.

DRMTLGY TINGL Face and Body Exfoliator Pads - Anti Aging Acne Treatment with Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Salicylic Acid - Pore Minimizer, Oil Cleanser, Blackhead Remover and Skin ExfoliatorCheck Price

DRMTLY TINGL Exfoliating Pads — The Best Affordable AHA/BHA Peel Pads by Margaret Schindel

Wednesday, July 17, 2024

The Best Insulated Stainless Steel 40-oz. Travel Tumbler With Handle

The Hydro Flask® 40-oz. All Around™ Travel Tumbler with Handle is a premium beverage container designed to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for extended periods. Known for its robust construction and excellent insulation properties, this tumbler is ideal for those who need a very large drinking mug, whether on the go or for everyday use. It's also available in a 32-oz. size.

The Best 40-oz. Stainless Steel Insulated Cup for Everyday Use

I try to stay hydrated and sip on ice water or another cold drink throughout the day when I'm not drinking tea. Since I like a lot of ice in my water or other cold beverages and the cubes take up a lot of space, I wanted a larger insulated mug or tumbler that I wouldn't have to refill multiple times a day.

I had been thinking about getting one of the famous and popular Stanley 40-ounce Quencher Tumblers with Handle, but in addition to the high cost, I had concerns about the reported issues with leaking. After reading product recommendations from The New York Times Wirecutter, I ultimately decided on the Hydro Flask 40-oz. All Around Travel Tumbler with Handle, which they said leaks less than the Stanley Quencher and costs significantly less.

Hydro Flask insulated stainless steel 40-oz. travel tumbler with handle

In real life, my Hydro Flask 40-ounce travel tumbler is more mint green than turquoise

Design and Build Quality

The Hydro Flask brand has a reputation for producing durable and aesthetically pleasing products, and the 40-oz. All Around Tumbler is no exception. This tumbler features a sleek, minimalist design that is available in various colors, catering to different style preferences. The matte finish provides a good grip and doesn't scratch easily, and the handle is ergonomically designed, making it comfortable to carry even when the tumbler is full.

The tumbler is made from Color Last™ powder-coated 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel, and the build quality is outstanding. This material is both durable and resistant to rust and punctures. The tumbler is also BPA-free, ensuring beverages remain safe and free from any chemical contamination.

Insulation Performance

One of the standout features of the Hydro Flask tumbler is its insulation performance. The tumbler employs TempShield® double-wall vacuum insulation, which is highly effective at maintaining the temperature of your drinks. Cold beverages stay cold for up to 24 hours, while hot beverages can remain hot for up to 12 hours. This makes the tumbler perfect for a wide range of activities, from hiking and camping to long commutes and office use. It's also perfect for daily at-home use.

Usability

The 40 oz capacity is generous, allowing you to carry a substantial amount of your favorite beverage. This is particularly useful for those who need to stay hydrated throughout the day or for activities where refilling may not be convenient.

The tumbler is easy to fill and clean thanks to the wide-mouth design, and there is plenty of room for ice cubes. The handle is a significant addition, enhancing the portability of the tumbler. It is sturdy and well-attached, capable of withstanding the tumbler’s weight even when full. The leak-resistant lid is also a great feature, preventing spills during transportation and providing easy access to your drink.

Pros

Excellent Insulation: Keeps beverages cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours.

Leak-Resistant Lid with Built-in Flexible Silicone Straw: Helps prevent spills even if you knock the travel tumbler over and the soft silicone straw allows for easy, comfortable drinking.

Large Capacity: 40-oz. size is perfect for long outings or all-day hydration at home.

Ergonomic Handle: Comfortable to carry and enhances portability.

Wide Mouth Design: Easy to fill, clean, and add ice cubes.

Durable Construction: Made from high-quality 18/8 food-grade 304 stainless steel.

Easy to Clean: Washing by hand is a breeze if you have a bottle brush set that includes a larger brush with a long handle for cleaning the travel mug and long, thin brush for cleaning the straw. This bottle brush cleaning set has brushes for cleaning all types and sizes of bottles, cups, jars, and straws and is very inexpensive. This insulated travel tumbler is also…

Dishwasher-Safe: Unlike many other powder-coated insulated stainless steel mugs and tumblers, this one is dishwasher-safe, which I love! Although I tend to hand wash mine more often than not, I have run the tumbler and lid through the dishwasher several times and have not experienced any chipping or scratching of the powder-coated exterior.

Fits in Most Cup Holders: The bottom of the tumbler is narrower than the top, allowing it to fit most cup holders when you're on the road.

Excellent Value: The Hydro Flask 40-oz. All Around Travel Tumbler With Handle costs significantly less than the popular Stanley Quencher.

Nice Color Choices: This large travel tumbler is available in a wide selection of attractive colors.

Optional Large Closeable Press-In Lid Lets You Use This Insulated Tumbler With Hot Beverages: At the time of this post's publication, only the small closeable press-in lid was available on Amazon, but the large closeable press-in lid was available for $9.95 on the Hydro Flask website.

Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler Dew 40 Oz

Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler Black 40 Oz

Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler Cascade 40 Oz

Cons

Size and Weight: When filled to the top with liquid (and ice, if desired), this large-capacity tumbler can be heavy, which might be a drawback for some users. However, there is also a smaller Hydro Flask 32-oz. All Around Travel Tumbler With Handle.

Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler Agave 32 Oz

Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler Trillium 32 Oz

Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler Cactus 32 Oz

Conclusion

The Hydro Flask 40 oz All Around Tumbler with Handle is a top-tier product that lives up to its reputation. Its combination of superior insulation, durable construction, and practical design features makes it an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and stylish tumbler. While it comes with a higher price tag and requires hand washing, the benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a commuter, or someone who values high-quality drinkware, this tumbler is a worthy investment.

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Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Hepburn's Necklace: Jan Moran's Beautiful, Enthralling Romantic Saga

My husband and I recently listened to the audiobook of Hepburn’s Necklace by bestselling author Jan Moran. It is a 20th-century historical romance novel that weaves together a captivating, multigenerational story of love lost and found. It effortlessly blends history, mystery, the glamour of old Hollywood, the hardships of rural Texas farming life, and the gorgeous, scenic Italian coast. We loved every minute of it, so much that I also purchased the Kindle version. Here is my book review.

Escape to the shores of beautiful Lake Como in Italy for this multigenerational historical romance
that combines the magic of the Italian coast with the glamour of Hollywood in its heyday

When costume designer Ariana Ricci discovers that her controlling bridegroom has been unfaithful, she leaves him at the altar. Her rigid, ambitious, and workaholic mother, Mari, refused to take time off to attend the wedding. Fortunately, the desolate bride finds solace with her great-aunt, glamorous Hollywood legend Ruby Raines, who whisks Ariana away from the church and off to Italy for some much-needed healing time.

Ruby has strong emotional ties to Italy, where she traveled as a teenager to work as an extra in the 1952 film Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn. It’s also where she fell deeply and irrevocably in love with Niccolò, an Italian extra in the iconic movie, and was befriended by Hepburn who gifted her with the necklace that gives this novel its name. Ruby and Niccolò had pledged themselves to each other faithfully, but his sudden silence soon after Ariana’s forced return to Hollywood remains a mystery. Ruby can only assume that he must have died, the only reason she can accept that would have kept him from her. During the filming of Roman Holiday, she and Niccolò had spent a magical few days on beautiful Lago di Como (Lake Como). Now, roughly half a century later, Ruby decides to purchase Villa Fiori, a rundown but historic villa there. Lago di Como holds precious memories for the aging Ruby, and she engages Ariana’s design expertise to refurbish the villa and restore it to its former glory.

As Ariana is looking for fabrics for Villa Fiori’s makeover, she is introduced to Alesandro, the handsome, savvy, and charming owner of the silk factory that provides textiles for all the top designer fashion houses, such as Versace, Missoni, Armani, Prada, and Ferragamo. Ruby encourages her grand-niece to accept Alessandro’s invitation to go out socially. However, Ariana is a bit gun-shy after her recent, narrow escape from her untrustworthy fiancé. While redecorating the villa, as Ariana combs through some of her famous great-aunt’s keepsakes she comes across some old letters with Italian postmarks from the 1950s. However, the famous and normally effusive Ruby is surprisingly closed-mouthed when asked about their contents, and we slowly learn more of her long-held secrets as the book progresses.

The relationship between Ariana and Alessandro gradually blooms, and Ruby relives her romantic past vicariously through them, musing on the secret love of her youth and the betrayal of a trusted relative that dramatically transformed the trajectory of her life.

The more we learn about Hollywood legend Ruby Raines as the book unfolds, the more questions we have.

What happened to the letter in Ruby’s empty envelope that Ariana found?
What were Ruby’s sister’s dying wishes?
What is behind the estrangement between Mari and Ariana?
Why do Ruby and her great-niece have such a special bond?
Why was Ruby’s aunt Vivienne jealous of her?
What really happened to Ruby’s beloved Niccolò?
Will Ariana, Ruby, or both get a second chance at love and, if so, will they have the courage to take it?

Jan Moran’s writing is elegant and immersive, characterized by detailed descriptions and a keen sense of pacing. The dual timelines are seamlessly integrated, allowing us to move fluidly between Ruby’s present-day experiences and the historical context of her teenage and subsequent years in Hollywood. The Italian coast is depicted with lush, evocative descriptions that transport readers to the sun-drenched landscapes and quaint villages. The setting serves as a perfect backdrop for the romantic and historical elements of the story.

Hepburn’s Necklace is a beautifully crafted novel that blends romance, history, and self-discovery into a compelling narrative. Jan Moran’s ability to evoke the magic of old Hollywood and the charm of the Italian coast makes this book a standout in contemporary romance.

This novel takes us on a long (356 pages) and winding journey that is well worth the trip. My husband and I loved it and, despite the satisfying conclusion, we were sorry to see it end. I highly recommend the audiobook, which provides nearly 13 hours of listening pleasure and is skillfully narrated by Erin Bennett. I also purchased the Kindle version as I look forward to rereading it.

The formats listed below are (in order) Kindle, audiobook, and paperback. Enjoy the ride!

Hepburn's Necklace: A Novel (Heartwarming Family Sagas - Stand-Alone Fiction)

Hepburn's Necklace

Hepburn's Necklace: A Novel (Heartwarming Family Sagas - Stand-Alone Fiction)

Hepburn's Necklace: Jan Moran's Beautiful, Enthralling Romantic Saga by Margaret Schindel

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

The Best, Most Practical Large Capacity Filtered Water Pitcher

Even though we live in an area with high-quality drinking water, the water is hard. We have found that our plants do better with filtered water, so we have always used a Pur or Brita filtered water pitcher when watering our plants. Until recently, we had only a few indoor houseplants. However, when my green-thumbed sister moved across the country last month, I inherited quite a few more. Since it takes time for the water to drip through the pitcher’s filter each time it is refilled, I quickly realized I needed a large-capacity filtered water pitcher for my indoor gardening and filling our large ultrasonic humidifier.

Today I am reviewing the Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher I chose. This simple yet effective water filtration system has a 10-cup capacity and a sleek, bright white design that combines functionality with style. You can buy it with one filter that lasts up to two months or 40 gallons of water or order a bundle that includes the pitcher and four filters.

It has been such a practical solution that I ordered a second one, which lets me water all our indoor plants without having to refill multiple times and wait for the water to drip through the filter each time.

The Most Practical Large Capacity Water Filter Pitcher

Design and Build Quality

The pitcher boasts a modern, bright white aesthetic that complements most kitchen decors. It is made from high-quality, BPA-free plastic, ensuring durability and safety. The ergonomically designed handle makes pouring easy and the flip-top lid simplifies refilling. The construction feels sturdy and the high-quality materials promise long-term use without significant wear and tear. That has certainly been the case with our previous, smaller Brita water filter pitchers.

Performance and Filtration

The Brita pitcher uses an advanced filtration system that reduces chlorine taste and odor and is certified to reduce copper, mercury, and other contaminants often found in tap water. Users have reported a noticeable improvement in the taste and clarity of their water. The filter is easy to install and replace. The model we purchased, which uses stickers to remind us when to change the filter (a pain in the neck), has been replaced by a model with a much more convenient, built-in electronic indicator that lets you know when it’s time for a new filter.

The pitcher holds up to 10 cups of water, making it suitable for small to medium-sized households. The filtration process is relatively quick, allowing you to enjoy clean, great-tasting water within minutes of filling the pitcher.

Environmental Impact

One of the standout features of this Brita pitcher is its potential environmental impact. It can significantly reduce plastic waste by replacing up to 1,800 16.9-fl. oz. single-use plastic water bottles annually, making it an eco-friendly choice for the environmentally conscious consumer. The long-lasting filter further minimizes the environmental footprint compared to frequent plastic bottle purchases.

Usability and Maintenance

Using the Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher is straightforward. The flip-top lid design makes refilling hassle-free, and the pitcher is easy to clean. It should fit comfortably in most refrigerators, should you wish to use it for drinking, providing convenient access to chilled, filtered water. Its dimensions are 10.47" high by 5.59" wide by 10.94" deep.

Maintenance involves regular filter changes every two months or after 40 gallons, whichever comes first. The electronic filter indicator is a handy feature that takes the guesswork out of knowing when to replace the filter, ensuring optimal performance and water quality.

Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher, BPA-Free Water Pitcher, Replaces 1,800 Plastic Water Bottles a Year, Lasts Two Months or 40 Gallons, Includes 1 Filter, 10-Cup Capacity, Bright White

Brita Standard Water Filter Replacements for Pitchers and Dispensers, BPA-Free, Replaces 1,800 Plastic Water Bottles a Year, Lasts Two Months or 40 Gallons, Includes 6 Filters for Pitchers

Value for Money

The Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher is priced competitively and offers excellent value for money. The cost savings from not purchasing bottled water and the environmental benefits make it a cost-effective and sustainable option.

The pitcher comes with one filter that lasts up to two months or 40 gallons of water. I recommend buying six Brita replacement water filters (a year's worth of water filters) for each pitcher you order.

Pros

Effective Filtration: Significantly improves water taste and quality by removing common contaminants.

BPA-Free: Safe and durable construction.

Eco-Friendly: Reduces plastic waste by replacing up to 1,800 16.9-fl. oz. plastic bottles a year.

User-Friendly: Easy to refill, clean, and maintain with a convenient electronic filter indicator.

Stylish Design: Modern look that fits well in any kitchen.

Cons

Filter Replacement Cost: The ongoing expense of replacing the filter every two months can add up. At the time of this article's publication, the cost of a six-pack of filters (one year's worth) on Amazon was less than $30, or $4.95 per filter.

Capacity Limitations: Even the 10-cup capacity may not suffice for your needs. If that is the case (as it was for me), you may want to buy a second pitcher.

My Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher with one of my houseplants

Conclusion

The Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher is a reliable, eco-friendly, and user-friendly solution for improving tap water quality. Its effective filtration system, ease of use, and stylish design make it a valuable addition to any household. Despite the recurring cost of filter replacements, the long-term savings and environmental benefits make it a worthwhile investment.

Whether you are looking for a convenient way to enjoy cleaner, better-tasting water or filtered water for gardening while reducing your plastic footprint, this Brita pitcher is an excellent choice.

The Best, Most Practical Large Capacity Filtered Water Pitcher by Margaret Schindel

Wednesday, June 5, 2024

The Ultimate Compact, Lightweight, Wearable Toolkit With Useful Tools

My husband is a serious tool aficionado. The Christmas and birthday gifts on his wishlist often include specific tools to add to his extensive collection. He is extremely picky about his tools but doesn't like to overpay. So, whether he buys them for himself or asks for them as gifts, he always chooses high-quality tools that are also well-priced, delivering good value.

After considerable research, he designed a small but well-appointed, versatile, lightweight tool kit that he could wear on his belt on weekends, when he typically works on DIY, home, and auto repair projects. This past Christmas, his gifts wishlist included the components he would need to bring that design to life.

In this review, I will share his ingenious compact, lightweight, wearable toolkit configuration, including everything you need to replicate it. With Father's Day coming up, this would make a terrific Father's Day gift!

How to Assemble the Ultimate Compact, Lightweight, Wearable Toolkit

Here is everything you need to know to replicate my husband's clever design. Of course, you can customize this wearable toolkit to suit your needs and preferences, using this design to spark your imagination.

What You Will Need

OneTigris phone pouch for 2¼ inch belt with MOLLE strap
Rocktol 29-in-1 Multitool Pliers with Replaceable Wire Cutters and Saw
VIM Tools 1/4 inch Small Flex Socket Ratchet to T Handle Wrench Set with Socket Extension and Adapter
DEWALT 7-Piece Bit Set with 6-in-1 Flip and Switch Driver System
EGUKU LED + COB Bright Mini Portable Clip-on or Keychain EDC Flashlight, 800 Lumens, 180° Rotatable, Rechargeable, 5 Modes
Stanley 3 Foot x ¼-Inch PowerLock Key Tape Measure
A few inches of self-adhesive hook and loop tape (such as Velcro brand)

The front flap of the OneTigris phone pouch has a strap with a stitched loop and a latch to secure the contents. There is also a wide strip of hook-and-loop (like Velcro) material (the loop side) for attaching items to the front flap.

The body of the pouch features two pockets: a smaller one in front that zips closed (for money or small accessories or, in our case, tools and attachments) and a larger, padded one behind it that holds your mobile phone and is lined with a soft, velvety material to protect against scratches. There are also two elastic side loops, one on either side.

The back has a sleeve that slides onto your belt, with two MOLLE straps with loops and snap closures.

The Rocktol 29-in-1 Multitool has a wide array of functions. Most notable are the needle nose pliers, replaceable wire cutters, saw, and (most important for John's compact, wearable toolkit configuration) a ¼-inch bit driver. It also comes with a small pouch and collection of double-ended bits that my husband rarely uses, which he stores in this pouch separate from his wearable tool kit.

VIM Tools small Flex Socket Ratchet to T Handle Wrench Set with Socket Extension and Adapter and DEWALT 7-piece bit driver set

The VIM Tools 1/4-inch Small Flex Socket Ratchet to T Handle Wrench Set with Socket Extension and Adapter and the DEWALT 7-Piece Bit Set with 6-in-1 Flip and Switch Driver System are key additions to the Rocktol multitool in this compact wearable toolkit. The 1/4-inch drive ratchet has a locking swivel head and an extension that can fit into either the ratchet or the Rocktol multitool 1/4-inch driver. The DEWALT 1/4-inch bit driver set also can fit into either the ratchet or the multitool 1/4-inch driver, or even into the ratchet extension for extra reach. It comes with four double-ended bits (8 bits total) that fit into two carriers and can also fit directly into the ratchet or the Rocktol multitool 1/4-inch driver.

Stanley PowerLock 3-foot tape measure and EGUKU LED Bright Mini Portable Clip-on or Keychain EDC Flashlight

The Stanley 3-foot x 1/4-inch PowerLock Key Tape Measure is designed to fit on a keychain, although for our purposes it will clip onto the pouch's carabiner. It features a locking mechanism to hold the tape extended when needed. The EGUKU LED + COB Bright Mini Portable Clip-on or Keychain EDC Flashlight is extremely small and compact, but very bright for its size. It has five settings: LED high, LED low, COB high, COB low, and COB strobe. The clip on the back can be attached to a pocket, the neck of a shirt, etc.

It's surprising how brightly this very small flashlight can light up a dark area! My husband clips his to one of the side loops so that when he slides the wearable tool kit pouch to the side of his belt, the light faces forward. The spotlight also swivels 180° so you can aim the light at whatever you are working on.

Configuring and Assembling Your Wearable Toolkit

While the pouch is not a perfect fit for all the tools, it works remarkably well. My husband loves his and uses it all the time. On weekends, it is his constant sidekick. Here is how it is put together.

Cut two short lengths of self-adhesive hook-and-loop tape and discard the loop side. Attach one of the hook sides to the yellow main body of the DEWALT extension bit set. Attach the other hook side to the back of the Stanley PowerLock tape measure.
Remove the extension rod from the ratchet set and replace it with the body of the DEWALT bit driver set and one of the bit sets. Slide this assembly into the loop on the phone pouch's flap, making sure the hook tape strip you adhered to the yellow DEWALT bit driver body is secured to the pouch flap's loop tape strip.
Place the Rocktol multitool and replacement saw blades, the remaining DEWALT bit set, and the ratchet extension rod into the zippered front pocket of the pouch. (You won't be able to zip the pocket when filled with these items, but the latched strap will secure them in the pocket.)
Place your phone in the lined larger pocket.
Clip the flashlight to one of the side loops (left or right, depending on which side of your belt you plan to wear the toolkit, so that the light will face forward).
Clip the Stanley tape measure's keychain loop to the pouch's carabiner, then close the front flap, latch the top strap, and attach the hook tape strip on the back of the tape measure to the loop tape strip on the front of the pouch (so it stays out of the way until needed).

Interior view of assembled wearable tool kit

Here's a view inside the assembled wearable toolkit.

Small But Mighty

As you can see, this entire wearable toolkit is small and compact. Despite its diminutive size, however, it can handle the majority of routine DIY projects and repairs without having to lug around heavier, full-size tools. Here are just a few of the things my husband uses it for:

DIY projects
Household repairs
Automotive projects and car repairs
Bicycle repairs
Model railroad projects and repairs
Trimming and pruning plants and small branches
Miscellaneous uses, such as cutting wires, tightening or loosening screws or nuts and bolts (especially in hard-to-reach or tight spaces), bending and filing wire and lightweight metal, opening shipping boxes and product packaging, task lighting for work areas, lighting dark hallways/passages

A Terrific Gift (and Not Just for Men)

While this compact, lightweight, wearable toolkit makes a great Father's Day gift, it's also a gift that both men and women who use hand tools for DIY projects, repairs, hobbies, etc., would appreciate.

Although it doesn't eliminate the need for full-size tools completely, you might be surprised at how rarely you need to haul them out once you have this well-equipped, compact, wearable tool kit on your belt.