GH - June 2022 by Lawrence Ambrocio

CLEANING TIPS

It’s

June!

Photographed by Stephen Karlisch; designed by Tori Rubinson of Tori Rubinson Interiors.

EASY AGING Dilute white acrylic paint with water, then sponge the mixture around the pot for a weathered look.

ARRANGE AN

Outdoor “Living” Wall

clean like a pro

Throughout the issue, look for smart, simple ways to make your home sparkle from the experts in our Cleaning Lab.

Freshen up your patio by mounting potted plants to a blank wall. For easy hanging, drill a hole in one side of each of several terra-cotta pots with a bit slightly larger than the screws you’re using (if the pot doesn’t have a drainage hole in the bottom, drill one there as well). Fill the pots with low-maintenance cascading plants or herbs that can thrive in sun and shade, pick a wall you can see easily from an outdoor seating area and affix the pots to it with mortar screws. “We wanted to make this wall visually interesting,” says designer Tori Rubinson, who handled the project above. Mission accomplished!

the

GOOD

JUNE contents

stu

FA S H I O N + B E AU T Y

14 INSIDE THE GH BEAUTY LAB

16 HOW TO CARE FOR EVERY SKIN TONE

21 BOOST YOUR HAIR COLOR FOR SUMMER YOUR HOME

28 BRIGHT & POLISHED

Ingenious decor and tried-and-true cleaning tips

42 HOW TO CLEAN ANYTHING

46 BEST OF THE TEST

Wet/dry vacuums L I F E + H E A LT H

49 REAL LIFE

Karen Oelschlaeger’s final crusade

54 “SHE WAS ONE OF MY CLOSEST FRIENDS, BUT WE NEVER MET”

56 16 WAYS TO FEEL CALMER NOW

Green Beans

63 ALWAYS COLD? HERE’S WHY…

There are so many ways to turn this bright and crunchy crop into a standout side dish. Here are some of our Test Kitchen’s favorite ideas:

SPICE-GRILLED

APRICOT-GLAZED

PARMESAN-ROASTED

WHY WE’RE SAYING BYE TO BMI

Heat grill to medium-high. Toss 1 lb green beans with 2 Tbsp olive oil and 2 tsp Cajun or blackened seasoning. Place beans on grill, perpendicular to grates, and grill, rolling often with back of spatula, until tender and charred, 3 to 5 min. Serve as a side with grilled salmon, skirt steak or pork chops.

In batches, blanch 1 lb green beans; drain and pat dry. In large skillet, heat 3 Tbsp olive oil and 4 cloves garlic (thinly sliced) on medium, stirring occasionally, until beginning to brown, 2 min. Stir in 1⁄4 cup apricot jam, 2 Tbsp white wine vinegar and 1⁄4 tsp each salt and pepper. Add green beans and cook, tossing to coat, until heated through.

Heat oven to 425°F. On large rimmed baking sheet, toss 1 lb green beans with 1 Tbsp olive oil, then 1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan and 1⁄4 tsp each salt and pepper. Roast until light golden brown, 10 to 12 min. Serve with seared chicken or ﬁrm white ﬁsh.

G H JUNE 2022

66 INSIDE THE GH NUTRITION LAB

Green beans: Getty Images.

IN SEASON

the

GOOD

Sunny Summer Reads FEEL-GOOD FICTION

You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi Five years after losing the love of her life, Brooklyn artist Feyi is ready for a restart, and what better way than with a whirlwind summer romance? It all begins with a steamy encounter at a rooftop soiree, then cascades into a trip to a luxury estate with her seemingly perfect beau—whose father just happens to be a celebrity chef with connections to a curator who could jump-start Feyi’s career. But even though this new man is just about perfect for her, she can’t deny her attraction to his father. As the situation reaches a boiling point, Feyi has to ask herself how far she’s willing to follow her heart and whom she’s willing to hurt for happiness. This is a sexy, sultry story of love, loss and grief told in passionate, lyrical language that will pull at your heartstrings right through the last page. $27

JUNE contents

stu 69 COZIEST BED EVER

80 SEAL SPOTLIGHT

Cleaning all-stars C O O K + S AV O R

84 READY, SET, SUMMER!

94 EASY WEEKNIGHTS

98 FIVE-INGREDIENT DINNER

101 FROM SCRATCH

Marinated peppers

104 INSIDE THE GH KITCHEN LAB FA M I LY R O O M

106 HELPING KIDS FIND THEIR VOICE

109 PICK THE RIGHT PET FOOD IN EVERY ISSUE

120 PAST AS PRESENT

More Than You’ll Ever Know by Katie Gutierrez

This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub

When struggling crime writer Cassie discovers the story of Lore Rivera, she’s hooked instantly. In 1985, Lore married a man named Andres in Mexico City, though she was already married to Fabian in Laredo, TX, and after her double life was revealed, one of her husbands was imprisoned for murdering the other. But Cassie is sure that there’s more to this story of a woman who risked it all and lost almost everything as a result. As she gets to know Lore, the supposed facts of the case begin to look more and more uncertain, and soon she’s uncovering a nest of secrets in not only Lore’s family, but her own life too. $29

On her 40th birthday, Alice finds herself traveling back in time to the morning of her 16th, and she’s thrown by all the things you might expect: the ’90s fashions she and her lifelong BFF are rocking, seeing her high school crush in the flesh and a chance to make the same mistakes all over again (and probably some new ones). But the thing that hits her right in the heart is seeing her dad healthy and thriving. In her current reality, he’s running out of time, and she finds herself wondering if there’s anything she can do to make the future less painful for both of them. $28

To learn more about our uplifting picks, their authors and other books we love, visit goodhousekeeping.com/gh-book-club.

G H JUNE 2022

Pilot Frixion ColorSticks Erasable Gel Ink Pens

Cover: Photographed by Mike Garten; prop styling by Cate Geiger Kalus; background tile courtesy of TileBar. For similar: Brando Tile, from $8 per square foot, tilebar.com. Burger and zucchini (inset): Photographed by Mike Garten; food styling by Simon Andrews; prop styling by Alex Mata.

Books: Mike Garten; prop styling by Alex Mata.

LITERARY SUSPENSE

GH SEAL STAR OF THE MONTH

GET AHEAD OF ECZEMA AND SHOW MORE SKIN DUPIXENT is a breakthrough eczema treatment that targets a key source of inflammation that can lead to uncontrolled moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis). Approved for ages 6 years and up.

Fast itch relief* Clearer skin that lasts* Not an immunosuppressant Not a cream or steroid *In a clinical trial at week 16, 59% of adults taking DUPIXENT + topical corticosteroids (TCS) had significantly less itch vs 20% on TCS only; 39% saw clear or almost clear skin vs 12% on TCS only. 36% saw clear or almost clear skin at week 52 vs 13% on TCS only.

CELISA, REAL PATIENT Individual results may vary.

TALK TO YOUR ECZEMA SPECIALIST AND GO TO DUPIXENT.COM TO FIND OUT MORE INDICATION DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used to treat adults and children 6 years of age and older with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) that is not well controlled with prescription therapies used on the skin (topical), or who cannot use topical therapies. DUPIXENT can be used with or without topical corticosteroids. It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with atopic dermatitis under 6 years of age. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Do not use if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in DUPIXENT®. Before using DUPIXENT, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you: have eye problems; have a parasitic (helminth) infection; are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a “live vaccine” right before and during treatment with DUPIXENT; are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby. A pregnancy registry for women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy collects information about the health of you and your baby. To enroll or get more information call 1-877-311-8972 or go to https://mothertobaby. org/ongoing-study/dupixent/; are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT passes into your breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements.

Especially tell your healthcare provider if you are taking oral, topical or inhaled corticosteroid medicines or if you have atopic dermatitis and asthma and use an asthma medicine. Do not change or stop your corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine without talking to your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by the corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine to come back. DUPIXENT can cause serious side effects, including: Allergic reactions. DUPIXENT can cause allergic reactions that can sometimes be severe. Stop using DUPIXENT and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms: breathing problems or wheezing, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, fast pulse, fever, hives, joint pain, general ill feeling, itching, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, nausea or vomiting, or cramps in your stomach-area. Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening eye problems, including eye pain or changes in vision, such as blurred vision. Your healthcare provider may send you to an ophthalmologist for an eye exam if needed. Joint aches and pain. Some people who use DUPIXENT have had trouble walking or moving due to their joint symptoms, and in some cases needed to be hospitalized. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or worsening joint symptoms. Your healthcare provider may stop DUPIXENT if you develop joint symptoms.

The most common side effects in patients with atopic dermatitis include injection site reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling, and itching, sometimes with blurred vision, and cold sores in your mouth or on your lips. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of DUPIXENT. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It’s an injection given under the skin (subcutaneous injection). Your healthcare provider will decide if you or your caregiver can inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to prepare and inject DUPIXENT until you or your caregiver have been trained by your healthcare provider. In children 12 years of age and older, it’s recommended DUPIXENT be administered by or under supervision of an adult. In children under 12 years of age, DUPIXENT should be given by a caregiver. Please see Brief Summary on next page.

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR AS LITTLE AS A $0 COPAY.* Ɛ҃ѶƓƓ҃ & * $ ҐƐ҃ѶƓƓ҃ƒѶƕ҃ƓƖƒѵґ *THIS IS NOT INSURANCE. Not valid for prescriptions paid, in whole or in part, by Medicaid, Medicare, VA, DOD, TRICARE, or other federal or state

programs, including any state pharmaceutical assistance programs. Program has an annual maximum of $13,000. Additional terms and conditions apply.

FRO M T HE EDITOR / t h e g o o d s t u f f

we want YOUR OPINION!

(YOU ARE)

The Best of Our Tests

Francisco: Alvaro Goveia. Illustrations: Getty Images.

Whenever I shop for something important, whether it’s a new

mattress, fresh makeup or even a wet/dry vac (see pages 69, 11 and 46 for this year’s best!), the first place I go for advice is up the stairs from my office to the GH Labs to see the experts there. They are constantly testing the things we use in our daily lives — and can easily offer great advice to help us find the best matches for our homes, families and lifestyles. And the next time you are shopping for something important, you can access our experts’ top picks and read their up-to-the-minute reviews of any product they test at goodhousekeeping.com/product-reviews. But our scientists do so much more than identify the best products. They also help us all consume in a smarter and healthier way, often by standing up for the public interest. This commitment to advocating on behalf of American families dates back to 1900, when Good Housekeeping opened its original “experiment station,” now known as the GH Institute. From providing readers with then-new research on the value of whole grains (1913) and alerting them to the dangers of too much sugar (1927) to banning cigarette advertising in the magazine (1952, 12 years before the surgeon general’s warning appeared on cigarette packs), our scientists have played a critical role in setting and improving America’s consumer standards. And we’re still at it: Our staff of engineers, chemists, textiles experts and food and nutrition pros now tests thousands of items every year for performance and safety. But that’s not all. One of the most important parts of our testing is you! After items are put under the scientific microscope, we send the most promising products out to members of our GH+ Club, who help us by doing the final testing in their own homes. This part of the process allows us to understand and share in much more depth how a product will work (or not!) for you and your family. We want to invite you to sign up for GH+ and join our panel — so turn the page to hear what members have

I want to invite you to become an oﬃcial product tester by joining the GH+ Club. Once you sign up, you could be selected to receive free products and share your experience and opinions! The best part: The main attraction of GH+ membership is unlimited access to Good Housekeeping anywhere you want — including exclusive online stories, our monthly challenges, every delicious recipe, how-to videos, all product reviews, the members-only newsletter, deals and discounts and, of course, a full-year subscription to the print magazine delivered to your door — all for less than $2 per month! Taking part in the creation of our famous reviews of the hottest new products is one of the perks our members love most. You can sign up now at goodhousekeeping.com/go/join.

ONLY THE BEST

Testing is at the heart of everything we do at GH, helping us deliver the most accurate and useful information for you, your family and your home.

For your chance to be a product tester (and much more), join the GH+ Club at goodhousekeeping.com/go/join.

t h e g o o d s t u f f / INSI D E T HE L A B S

Testing in the Real World We asked our at-home testers what they love about trying out the latest products — here’s what they told us. Joining our testing program is exclusive to GH+ members.

“

“Testing for GH+ is such a privilege! Knowing consumers base their purchases on these reviews, I take pride in being a part of the process. It’s exciting to purchase a product with the GH Seal, because I know it has been through a rigorous process.”

“I like being able to test products because it helps me comparison shop more effectively.” “I loved the opportunity to help other people make selections when shopping for certain products. I feel like I am adding my voice for or against to help others spend their money wisely.”

“Before I make any purchase, I always go to the GH website for research and advice.”

“

“I’ve subscribed to the magazine for over 30 years and always appreciated the honest reviews. Now I can be part of helping others ﬁnd the right products.”

G H JUNE 2022

“I have been reading Good Housekeeping for more than 20 years, and now I feel like I’m part of the GH family.”

JOIN THE GH+ CLUB TO BECOME A TESTER goodhousekeeping.com /go/join

Illustrations: Getty Images.

“I love testing products, especially anything to do with cleaning. I like being exposed to items I haven’t heard of or tried before. I ﬁnd it interesting to see which items work best for me and my family.”

A cookie jar in every bite.

Mike Garten. Prop styling by Alex Mata.

CLEANING TIP NO. 1

start smart

Dust ﬁrst, then vacuum your way out of a room for a cleaner look. No footprints!

b e a u t y l a b / WAT E RCOLOR LO O KS

LOOK 1 ( f r o m p r e v i o u s p a g e)

Natural & Glowy

Subtly accentuate features with eﬀortless lighter shades that are perfect for daytime.

1 Eyes: Diﬀuse a dot of

a glimmery champagne cream eyeshadow along the lashline

COVERGIRL EXHIBITIONIST LID PAINT IN SORRY SWEETIE, $8, WALMART

2 Cheeks: Tap a translucent

gel blush formula in a peachyneutral shade on apples of cheeks, moving over and up toward temples.

LOOK 2

Punchy

& Bold

These pops of color stand out (and especially ﬂatter medium to dark skin tones) without appearing overdone. MARY KAY GEL CREAM BLUSH IN DEWY PEACH, $18

Lips: Get a hint of color

3 that stays yet feels barely there by gliding on a water stain in a soft rosy hue.

1 Eyes: To maximize

impact, blend a bronze liquid shimmer eyeshadow

2 Cheeks: A sheer gel

CLARINS WATER LIP STAIN IN ROSE WATER, $29, CLARINSUSA.COM SPARKLE, $12, DRUGSTORES

G H JUNE 2022

3 Lips: Slick on a watery liquid

inside the

GH Beauty Lab

BEAUTY LAB

APRIL FRANZINO BEAUTY DIRECTOR @aprilfranzino

The look-gorgeous news, tricks and trends you need to know from GH’s in-house scientists and experts

BEAUT Y CLOSET

NEW + HOT The latest and most exciting ﬁnds we’ve come across this month

face refresh Tote this handy mirrored compact with brush to revive dull skin any time: Dust the sheer, satiny rose powder all over or on cheekbones for a radiance boost, or dab on the clear balm for dewy moisture.

springy spritz Channel a stroll in a ﬁeld of wildﬂowers with this fragrance “bouquet,” blooming with the scent of lush gardenia and jasmine and sweetened by juicy berries. GUCCI FLORA GORGEOUS GARDENIA EAU DE PARFUM, $108, SEPHORA.COM

What makes a deodorant “natural” — and does it work? — KRISTIN P.

in deodorants and antiperspirants: “There’s simply no evidence that aluminum causes breast cancer or Alzheimer’s,” says Elizabeth Comen, M.D., a medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. As for the eﬃcacy of aluminum-free deodorants when it comes to underarms and other areas, they can work to help mask odor or inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria, though they generally don’t prevent perspiration, so choose the type best suited to your lifestyle. GH Beauty Lab pick: GH Beauty Award winner Dove 0% Aluminum Reﬁllable Deodorant, $15, Walmart

+ LAB LOWDOWN

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT WITCH HAZEL to its ability to cleanse and clarify skin eﬀectively. GH Beauty Lab Chemist Danusia hair luminizer Give strands a glow by gliding this serum, laced with subtle glimmer, over hair while it’s damp or as a last styling step. OGX SMOOTHING + LIQUID PEARL LUMINESCENT SERUM, $8, WALMART.COM

and producing genuine witch hazel for skincare brands like Humphreys Witch Hazel and T.N. Dickinson’s that have been around since the mid-1800s. “The witch hazel plant contains therapeutic constituents that, when extracted and distilled, create the Engelman, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City, which is why it’s most commonly tighten pores, depuﬀ areas like undereyes and relieve irritation. It works on all skin types; for dry skin, use an alcohol-free formula, which is non-drying. GH Beauty Lab picks: T.N. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel 100% Natural Astringent, $7, Walgreens; Thayers Natural Remedies Original Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Facial Toner, $11, Target (right)

G H JUNE 2022

Woman and witch hazel: Getty Images. Franzino: Mike Garten. Reporting by Katie Berohn.

PHYSICIANS FORMULA ROSÉ ALL DAY SET & GLOW, $16, DRUGSTORES

BEAUT Y LAB

How to care

for

EVERY

Variations in pigment levels and other factors make certain skin tones more prone to particular issues. Top dermatologists detail the most common challenges and the best ways to prevent and treat them for your healthiest, most radiant complexion through the years. by A PRI L F RAN Z IN O

Medium-dark Because it contains more melanin, this skin tone “rarely burns and readily tans,” Dr. Hogan explains. It also is very susceptible to conditions characterized by hyperpigmentation, such as melasma, which presents as blotchy patches on sun-exposed areas. “The more melanin you have in your skin, the more prone you are to hyperpigmentation, including postinﬂammatory hyperpigmentation marks caused by acne, skin injury and scarring,” Dr. Marchbein adds. CARE CUES Rather than using stronger acids or other exfoliants that can irritate, leading to more hyperpigmentation, opt for treatments with gentler toneevening ingredients such as mandelic acid, which also helps control oil, Dr. Liu suggests. For melasma, “oral prescription and topical tranexamic acid and topical treatments with cysteamine are eﬀective,” Dr. Marchbein says. “Using SPF is still very important for darker skin tones,” Dr. Liu adds; choose a tinted sunscreen, which is likely to blend better on deeper complexions and will help prevent discoloration.

GH BEAUTY LAB PICK: BEAUTY AWARD WINNER NEUTROGENA BRIGHT BOOST RESURFACING MICRO FACE POLISH, $11, DRUGSTORES PRO PICKS: CYSPERA INTENSIVE, $162, US.CYSPERA.COM; EXUVIANCE SKIN CARING BB FLUID WITH SUNSCREEN BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 50 PA++++, $42, ULTA

Dark

Getty Images.

With the most melanin of all the skin tones, this category includes Black skin that “is deeply pigmented and almost never burns,” Dr. Hogan says. Compared to other skin types, “it’s been shown that African American skin has decreased levels of ceramides — lipids that make up a large percentage of its top layer — making it more prone to moisture loss, which can lead to dryness,” says Janiene Luke, M.D., an associate professor of dermatology at Loma Linda University in Loma Linda, CA. “Common issues such as acne and eczema are also seen in dark skin, and there is a tendency toward postinﬂammatory hyperpigmentation, in which dark spots and discoloration can be present for months to years after the conditions resolve.” In addition, “pigmentary disorders such as melasma are prevalent,” she notes.

GH BEAUTY LAB PICKS: BEAUTY AWARD WINNER CLINIQUE DRAMATICALLY DIFFERENT MOISTURIZING LOTION+, $17; GH SEAL STAR MARY KAY CLINICAL SOLUTIONS HA + CERAMIDE HYDRATOR, $38 PRO PICK: URBAN SKIN RX EVEN TONE SUPER GLOW SERUM, $24, ULTA

CARE CUES Replenish ceramide levels with emollient moisturizers that contain the ingredient, Dr. Luke advises. To prevent post-inﬂammatory hyperpigmentation, which can be brought on by acne, eczema and other issues, visit a dermatologist. “I recommend aggressively treating the primary skin condition ﬁrst and applying sunscreen daily, as it’s paramount in stopping the exacerbation of hyperpigmentation,” she says. “Melasma can be treated by targeting melanogenesis, the process by which melanin is produced, with either prescription hydroquinone topical treatments or over-the-counter options including ingredients like kojic acid and arbutin, among others.”

G H JUNE 2022

b e a u t y l a b / SK IN SP ECIAL

Lightmedium

This describes those with pale complexions who burn when exposed to sun because their skin has less melanin (pigment) to protect against UV damage, says Jenny Liu, M.D., an assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis. “Redness is the most common issue,” says Shari Marchbein, M.D., an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at New York University School of Medicine, along with wrinkles and sun spots, adds Dr. Liu. “UV radiation stimulates imbalanced melanin production, resulting in hyperpigmentation and damage to skin’s collagen ﬁbers,” says Sara Hogan, M.D., a dermatologist in McLean, VA.

GH BEAUTY LAB PICK: GH SEAL STAR NO7 LABORATORIES DARK SPOT CORRECTING BOOSTER SERUM, $42, WALGREENS

CARE CUES “Strict sun protection is the best way to prevent hyperpigmentation,” Dr. Vega says. Boost your routine with “ingredients targeted toward treating uneven skin tone,” Dr. Liu advises. Look for serums that contain licorice root, niacinamide, retinoids or hydroquinone (when recommended by a dermatologist).

Medium

With this skin color that “minimally burns and easily tans, hyperpigmentation is a primary concern — along with laxity,” Dr. Hogan says. “In darker complexions, the presence of more and larger melanosomes, organelles produced by skin pigment cells that contain skin color, increases the likelihood that hyperpigmentation, or unwanted darkening, can develop.”

CARE CUES Diligent sun protection with daily application of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen is especially crucial to prevent redness, wrinkles and UV spots in fair skin. Pair with a niacinamide (vitamin B3) serum to reduce redness, Dr. Marchbein advises, and a retinoid treatment at night, which stimulates collagen production after three to six months of use, Dr. Hogan suggests. GH BEAUTY LAB PICKS: TEST WINNER VICHY LABORATOIRES LIFTACTIV PEPTIDE-C SUNSCREEN SPF 30, $39, VICHYUSA.COM; GH SEAL STARS OLAY TONE PERFECTION VITAMIN B 3 + VITAMIN C SERUM, $20, WALMART; ROC SKINCARE RETINOL CORREXION LINE SMOOTHING NIGHT SERUM CAPSULES, $25, TARGET

GH BEAUTY LAB PICK: TEST WINNER L’ORÉAL PARIS REVITALIFT BRIGHT REVEAL BRIGHTENING DAILY PEEL PADS, $20, DRUGSTORES

CARE CUES In addition to UV protection, treatments with “brightening ingredients like vitamin C and glycolic acid can help the appearance of hyperpigmentation by chemically exfoliating skin,” Dr. Hogan says. They also boost collagen production to ﬁrm skin. “Lightening agents like kojic acid and hydroquinone interrupt melanin synthesis to even tone,” she adds.

JUNE 2022 G H

This page and opposite page: Getty Images.

Light

As a category, this complexion is characterized by a light tan color that “sometimes burns and gradually tans,” Dr. Hogan explains. Melanin discoloration is a common concern, Dr. Liu says: “Darker skin tones tend to show ﬁne lines and wrinkles later compared with fair skin, but will often have other signs of aging, like age spots.” This hyperpigmentation is often due to “a combination of sun exposure and hormonal inﬂuences,” says Janelle Vega, M.D., a dermatologist in Miami.

how we tested: GH Beauty Lab scientists evaluated label-masked new broad-spectrum body sunscreens with an SPF of 50 or higher across price points on 257 testers with various skin tones for:

BEAUTY LAB

No matter what your skin tone, experts agree that daily application of a broad-spectrum SPF on any exposed skin is the most important skincare step. Here, the best body formulas you can buy this year.

• Ease of use • Scent, texture and absorption • Look and feel of skin during use • Causing irritation or transferring • Sun-protection ability

Chemical Sunscreens Chemical active ingredients like avobenzone and homosalate in these work by absorbing UV light and converting it into heat; they are generally easier to apply and leave less visible residue on skin.

COR E D

96 100

CO R E D

Best overall

BEST for sensitive skin

BEST for dry skin

The Rodan + Fields chemical SPF for both body and face topped the test, excelling across the board for its featherlight “silky” texture and sheer ﬁnish that didn’t leave a white residue even on deeper-toned skin. TESTER NOTES: “I loved everything about this” and “I found the protection ﬁrst-rate,” two said. Several said they would purchase it. LAB RESULTS: In Beauty Lab evaluations, an impressive 100% of users agreed that it was easy to apply, got absorbed well and didn’t leave a white cast on skin, feel greasy or sticky or stain fabrics. Like the other winners, it is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

This chemical Everyday Humans formula proved gentle enough for the most reactive skin types, even for use on the face, and came out on top for its “lightweight” feel. TESTER NOTES: “It absorbed quickly and left absolutely no residue on my dark skin” and “didn’t cause any allergic reaction,” two raved. LAB RESULTS: The SPF earned the highest score for not stinging or irritating, and 100% of users who applied it on their faces reported no irritation of their eyes or the surrounding skin. Note that the bottle is smaller than average for a body sunscreen.

Shiseido’s luxe liquid lotion sunscreen with skincare ingredients like vitamin E and botanical extracts was a star at not dehydrating skin or leaving behind a visible ﬁlm. TESTER NOTE: “It felt silky, luxurious and more like a moisturizer than a sunscreen!” LAB RESULTS: The chemical formulation received the best rating for not making skin feel dry, and it ranked highly for rinsing oﬀ easily, producing no white residue and having a pleasant fragrance. Caveats: It is the priciest of the winners, and some users thought that it felt slippery or runny.

EVERYDAY HUMANS OH MY BOD BODY SUNSCREEN SPF 50, $18, EVERYDAY-HUMANS.COM

SHISEIDO ULTIMATE SUN PROTECTOR LOTION SPF 50+, $49, SEPHORA.COM

RODAN + FIELDS ESSENTIALS FACE + BODY SUNSCREEN BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 50, $34, RODANANDFIELDS.COM

Mineral Sunscreens Mineral-derived active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide form a barrier on skin that reflects UV light; they tend to be less irritating, though may be more difficult to spread and may leave a white film.

CO R E D

Illustration: Brown Bird Design.

CO R E D

BEST mineral SPF

BEST zinc oxide spf

BEST scent

The top-rated of all the mineral sunscreens tested, coconut oil–infused Hawaiian Tropic was loved for its smooth application, transfer resistance and “deliciously tropical” scent. TESTER NOTES: “Wonderful staying power, even through sweat,” a fan marveled. Another added, “I looked forward to putting this on.” LAB RESULTS: This light, milky lotion was easy to apply and non-drying and rinsed oﬀ easily; it was also the least likely to stain or rub oﬀ on fabric of any mineral SPF. Testers praised the pump bottle, though it was smaller than others; the formula felt greasy to some.

Made with 20% mineral zinc oxide, the Babo Botanicals cream SPF avoids some of the common gripes about the active ingredient, rubbing onto skin and rinsing off easily. TESTER NOTES: “It moisturized my skin without a greasy residue” and “I forgot I had it on,” two commented. LAB RESULTS: It rated well for effortlessness of application and washing off, plus for not transferring onto fabrics or feeling oily or drying. Note that some users commented on its “thick” texture, and its bottle is the smallest of all the winners at 3 oz.

The least expensive per ounce of the winners, Ulta Beauty’s mineral sunscreen lotion shone thanks to its “light, clean” scent and satiny feel. TESTER NOTES: “Loved the scent and the texture, and the mineral ingredients work beautifully,” one said. Two described it as “smooth and silky.” LAB RESULTS: The rich lotion earned the highest score for texture among the mineral formulas and overall for its appealing aroma, and it rated well for not feeling tacky or oily. It may be difficult to rinse off, leave a white residue on skin and rub off on fabrics.

HAWAIIAN TROPIC MINERAL SKIN NOURISHING MILK SPF 50, $12, DRUGSTORES

BABO BOTANICALS SHEER MINERAL SUNSCREEN LOTION SPF 50, $17

ULTA BEAUTY MINERAL SUNSCREEN LOTION SPF 50, $15, ULTA

JUNE 2022 G H

REIGN S

N E W ! M A R Y K A Y ® S U P R E M E H Y D R AT I N G L I P S T I C K Just a single swipe of NEW Mary Kay® Supreme Hydrating Lipstick delivers luscious hydration, rich color and a brilliant shine finish. And with eight shades, you'll reign supreme in each one.

POETIC PINK

(Shown on Senait on the right)

FUCHSIA DREAM

CASUAL ROSE

(Shown on Aline on the left)

FESTIVE PINK

BOHO PLUM

CORAL CONFETTI

BETTER THAN BARE

(Shown on Hansel in the middle)

ROCKSTAR RED

Contact your Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant, or connect with one at marykay.com to find your perfect shade.

HA IR SPEC IAL / B e a u t y L a b

BEAUT Y LAB

Boost your

HAIR COLOR

for SUMMER

You can add pop and dimension to any shade with strategically woven ribbons of lighter or deeper color, but not all highlights and lowlights are created equal. In this guide, professional hair colorists decode the many variations and explain how to ﬁnd the best for you.

Getty Images.

by APRIL FRANZINO, with reporting by JE S SICA T EIC H

JUNE 2022 G H

uthrie BEST FOR: “It can look good

BEST FOR: Shades ranging

from dark brown to blonde and gray. PRO TIP: Use a hydrating treatment mask to keep allover highlights soft and healthy, Lee says (a violet-tinted one enhances vibrance). en eig T sy

a Alb a c

Jes si

The best-known type of hair color accent, highlights are created by sectioning pieces of hair, applying bleach to them, then wrapping each in foil from root to tip to create bright, noticeable lightened lines of color.

Ch ris

H IGH LI GH TS

on any color of hair, including black and red,” Lee says. “Keep the lighter bottom color close to the root color for a more natural blend.” PRO TIP: Opt for color-safe shampoos made to preserve the shades, says Kattia Solano, founder of Butterﬂy Studio Salon in New York City.

BEST FOR: Dark blonde to

Na ta

light brown hair. PRO TIP: Brighten color and cancel unwanted yellow or orange tones by using a purple-tinted toning shampoo or conditioner, advises Amanda Lee, a Moroccanoil color ambassador and celebrity stylist in Los Angeles. m an o rt P lie

BA L AYAG E A modern take on highlights, “balayage is a technique in which haircolor is painted on strands to create a graduated, natural-looking highlight eﬀect,” says Joel Warren, owner of The Salon Project salons in New York and Florida. It involves “no striping or harsh lines of color,” says Desirae Blais, senior stylist at Blush Beauty Boutique in Lewiston, ME. BEST FOR: All shades and any-

Sombre refers to a soft ombré eﬀect, Solano explains: “The goal with ombré is a stark contrast of hair color from dark roots to light ends, but sombre is a more gradual and blended transition.” BEST FOR: All shades, and

especially “someone who wants a change that enhances their natural color without a big commitment,” Lee says. PRO TIP: “It’s so subtle that maintenance is minimal,” Lee notes. As with ombré, wash with color-protecting shampoo and conditioner.

g hun C e

gton shin a yW

O MB RÉ CLEANING TIP NO. 2

Sanitize toilets

Flush, pour in 1⁄3 cup bleach, brush, wait six minutes and ﬂush again.

MO NE Y PI ECE S With ombré, which became trendy in recent years, the ends of hair are fully lightened starting lower on the hair shaft (usually around ear level) rather than at the roots.

BEST FOR: These can work on any color of hair too. “They’re great for a dramatic pop of brightness around the face,” Lee says. PRO TIP: “Touch up the highlights every three months to keep them looking fresh,” Lee suggests.

S O MBR E

Ke rr

These are very thin highlights meant to mimic the look of the streaks that can appear naturally in a child’s hair. “Because a babylight is an extremely thin section of hair, it creates a super-subtle, sun-kissed result,” says Linsey Barbuto, founder of Perlei Salon in Wayne, NJ.

Jam i

BABY LIG H TS

one desiring less maintenance, as regrowth isn’t as stark. PRO TIP: Refresh the tones with a color glaze in the salon or at home.

make a bold statement, with highlights a vastly diﬀerent tone from the rest of hair, or be more subtle face-framing highlights.”

Trendy “money piece” highlights are “two prominent streaks framing the face,” Solano explains. “They can

G H JUNE 2022

pra Cho a k

LOW L I G HTS The opposite of highlights, lowlights are “subtle hints of color that are darker than highlights and often a similar tone to hair’s base color,” Solano says. They “give hair color a look of dimension and depth,” Lee adds. BEST FOR: Adding interest

to color that’s too solid or toning down a shade that’s overly bright, Lee advises. PRO TIP: For lasting shine and richness, ask your pro for a colored gloss in the salon or try an at-home color-depositing gloss between dye sessions.

Guthrie: Zach Pagano/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal/Getty Images. Portman: Cindy Ord/Getty Images. Teigen: Angela Weiss/Getty Images. Chung: JB Lacroix/WireImage/Getty Images. Alba: Michael Loccisano/Getty Images. Washington: Walter McBride/WireImage/Getty Images. Chopra: Miikka Skaffari/FilmMagic/Getty Images.

hG na

Pri ya

Sav a

B e a u t y L a b / H AIR S PEC IAL

BLOCK

HEARTBURN FROM YOUR

1 PILL IN THE MORNING,

24 HOUR HEARTBURN RELIEF.

*It’s possible while taking Prilosec OTC. Take one pill per day as directed for 14 days to treat frequent heartburn. Not for immediate relief.

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*100 hours more proven quality sleep based on internal analysis of sleep sessions assessing sleepers who use multiple features of Sleep Number® products. Claim based on sleepers achieving over 15 more minutes of restful sleep per sleep session. †Limited warranty available at sleepnumber.com. ‡Restrictions and exclusions apply. Does not apply to adjustable bases, upholstered furniture, closeout/clearance or demo/ﬂoor model purchases or mattresses already exchanged under another In-Home Trial period. You pay return shipping. Refunds will be made to the original method of payment less original shipping/delivery fees. Visit sleepnumber.com for complete details. SLEEP NUMBER, SLEEPIQ, SLEEP NUMBER 360, the Double Arrow Design, and SELECT COMFORT are registered trademarks of Sleep Number Corporation. ©2022 Sleep Number Corporation

Your Home Decorating, Organizing & Cleaning Solutions

Merge Your Mudroom With the Front Entry

GET THE LOOK BENJAMIN MOORE PARSLEY SNIPS PAINT, BENJAMINMOORE.COM

Aimée Mazzenga. Designed by Bria Hammel of Bria Hammel Interiors.

Built-in cabinets and a bench — not to mention a combo of bright colors and cheery textiles — help this front door area do double duty. Each family member has a cubby for their belongings, and hooks and a closet help conceal clutter and keep coats, bags and hats out of the way. Designer Bria Hammel’s decor choices introduced softness to an otherwise utilitarian space. “The windowpane door brings in tons of natural light, which enhances the overall design,” she says.

CLEANING TIP NO. 3

Prevent toxic fumes

Never mix bleach with anything but water. JUNE 2022 G H

SPRUCE UP SEATING Zap dust from woven wicker and cane chairs with your vacuum’s soft brush tool. Clean wood backs, armrests and trim with a kitchencabinet cleaner—it’s made to cut grease without damaging the ﬁnish.

COOL HUE Benjamin Moore’s chameleonlike Gray Owl on the wall changes with the light conditions throughout the day.

KITCHEN

CLEANING LAB

Polished + Bright Amp up your home’s style with ingenious indoor and outdoor decor ideas from this gleaming California abode. And keep rooms sparkling with tried-andtrue tips from GH’s resident cleaning expert. Written by M ON I Q U E VA L ER I S and CA ROLY N FO RT É Photographs by JI L L WE LLE R

BRING THE OUTDOORS IN. Rather than settle for the choppy original floor plan, Alice Arterberry and Barrett Cooke of Arterberry Cooke Architecture upgraded this home’s hardest-working floor in collaboration with the homeowners, giving it an airy, open layout fit for entertaining. The designers combined the kitchen, dining area and living space and added bifold doors that open onto the pool deck.

KITCHEN

FIND A BRIGHT SPOT FOR THE BREAKFAST NOOK.

CLEANING LAB

The kitchen’s main eating area, which features wood paneling, is nestled in an ultra-sunny corner and serves as the family’s command center for meals and arts-and-crafts sessions. For that reason, a custom quartz-composite tabletop (also featured in the kitchen) is a no-fail choice. “They wanted it to be indestructible so they could use the space for everything and not worry about damaging the table,” says Cooke.

SUP E R S U R FAC E SAV ERS Keep high-traffic ﬂoors, furniture and more in tip-top shape with these GH Cleaning Lab ﬁnds.

NEAT FEET

COUCH PROTECTOR

APPLIANCE PRESERVER

DELICATE DUSTER

Stick-on pads often peel oﬀ, and bare chair feet can mar ﬂoors. These vinyl caps stay put and let you slide smoothly.

Treat water-safe sofa cushions, armrests and pillows with a repellent spray after cleaning to help ward oﬀ future stains.

To keep that showroom shine at home, use a stainless steel– appliance cleaner that contains ingredients to hide ﬁngerprints.

GH LAB PICK: PARKER & BAILEY FELT FEET, $20 FOR 24

GH LAB PICK: BAYES HOME CARE FABRIC PROTECTANT, $15, AMAZON

GH LAB PICK: ROCK DOCTOR STAINLESS STEEL CLEANER & PROTECTANT, $10, AMAZON

Safely remove dust without damaging sensitive surfaces of flat-screen TVs, decor and even plant leaves with a fine-strand microfiber dusting tool.

G H JUNE 2022

GH LAB PICK: OXO MICROFIBER DELICATE DUSTER, $10

BUTCHER BLOCK COUNTERS The wood countertop makes the all-white kitchen feel “warm and homey,” says Cooke, and is the perfect option for an island without a built-in sink or range.

KEEP CLUTTER ON THE PERIMETER.

When designing a kitchen, Cooke likes to “keep as much function on the perimeter as possible so the island can stay clean and be used as a prep area and gathering spot for the family.” The result is a layout that feels open and manages to prevent any untidy cooking areas from taking over the space. JUNE 2022 G H

Presented by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams

Transform a Room With Paint. home ro ile

A fresh coat of paint can dramatically change the vibe of a space and make it easier to clean — but choosing the right formula is key. HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ Infinity, a durable interior paint and primer available in flat, satin and semi-gloss sheens, hits the mark. Just one coat of this scratch-resistant, scuff-resistant and stainrepellent acrylic paint will freshen up your space. Reinvent your room with the Rustic Farmhouse Color collection and use Infinity to make it last. A few of our favorites:

Built: 1915 Renovated: 2020 Style: Folk Victorian Farmhouse Where: Pasadena, CA Designers: Alice Arterberry and Barrett Cooke of Arterberry Cooke Architecture

LIVEABLE GREEN

ALABASTER

SEALSKIN

(HGSW6176)

(HGSW7008)

(HGSW7675)

G H JUNE 2022

OUTDOOR AREA

CLEANING LAB

CHARMING CHIMNEY The varied tones in the Englishpub bricks from General Shale play up the vintage ﬂair.

PERFECT PATIO Outdoor spaces need care too. Make sure yours is always guest-ready with these simple steps.

STASH CUSHIONS The best way to keep removable chair cushions and throw pillows clean is to shelter them from dirt and dampness after use and during the oﬀ-season. Invest in a waterproof deck box for easy access when you need them and easy storage when you don’t.

SPOT-CLEAN FURNITURE Thoroughly cleaning chairs and tables at the start and end of your outdoor season is key, but regular touch-ups are what keep them ready for impromptu get-togethers. Store a stash of heavy-duty cleaning wipes, like Clorox MultiPurpose Paper Towel Wipes, nearby to remove dirt and stains quickly without having to rinse.

BRIGHTEN BRICK Stone, brick and concrete walks and accents are prone to getting dirty and stained when exposed to the elements. Use a cleaner like Granite Gold Outdoor Stone Cleaner. Gentle and safe around plants, it comes in a size that attaches to your garden hose for extra pressure and reach.

BUILD AN OUTDOOR FIREPLACE. “The connection to the outdoors is pretty perfect,” Cooke says of the inviting design scheme marked by a dramatic brick chimney and ﬁreplace (the original one was removed in the 1980s). A striped rug ensures that the neutral seating set on top remains the focal point of the area. JUNE 2022 G H

B AT H R O O M

CLEANING LAB

BATH BA SI CS Try these tips for a top-tobottom shine in the mostused room in the house.

SPOTLESS GLASS Keeping glass shower doors and walls crystal clear can be a challenge, especially in hard-water areas. Drying them off after showering helps prevent residue from building up. And an oversize microfiber towel, like Maker’s Clean Waffle Weave Cloth, makes quick work of this daily task.

STUNNING STONE Natural stone, like marble, is a classic and durable bathroom choice, but many traditional bathroom cleaners contain acids that can etch these materials. Check the label and choose a shower cleaner, like Granite Gold, that’s eﬀective yet safe for stone.

POWER SHOWER Today’s ﬁxtures often sport high-end ﬁnishes that can be damaged by the vinegar soak often recommended to clear a clogged showerhead. Instead, dip a brush in vinegar and go over the jets only. Rinse well and dry.

PLAY WITH SCALE IN THE SHOWER. A long brass shower arm, along with gray-and-white marble tiles in multiple patterns, shapes and sizes, packs a punch in the primary bathroom. “We did pattern blocking, as opposed to color blocking, but both would be successful here,” says Cooke of the result, which includes hexagonal shower tiles from Soho Studio. A custom vanity, featuring a medium wood tone, complements the brass hardware and adds a touch of luxury to the design scheme. “A lot of the woodwork in the house was super dark, so we were looking for ways to bring woods back that didn’t feel oppressive,” Cooke adds.

G H JUNE 2022

TEAK TRICK Accessories like shower benches and mats will last longer and look better when cleaned with a sudsy mix of dish soap and water and occasionally protected with a teak oil or sealer.

PAINT OUT WOOD PANELING. The bathroom’s white wood paneling mirrors the original walls in the primary bedroom and helps anchor the setup. “It was dark wood when they purchased the house, but we painted it white and kept it all lighter and brighter,” Cooke says. “We looked for elements that worked when the house was originally constructed and added to those as much as possible to maintain a cohesive feeling.”

WASH WALLS Don’t let small mildew spots on painted walls spoil your spa moment. Scrub gently with a brush dipped in sudsy water. Next, apply a mix of 3 Tbsp chlorine bleach to 1 qt water. Wait ﬁve minutes, scrub, rinse and air-dry.

POOL HOUSE

CLEANING LAB

CREATE A POOL “PLAY” HOUSE. “They wanted an area that the kids could be less precious about, where they could make a bit of a mess,” Cooke says of the pool house, which is a converted ADU (accessory dwelling unit). Not only does it serve as a comfortable spot for the homeowners’ three children to gather with friends, play games and watch TV, but it also can be used as a work or exercise space.

DESIGN SURPRISE The pool house used to be a garage!

INSTALL A COLORED BACKSPLASH. The sparkling tile backsplash from Wow’s Fez Collection in the pool house kitchen catches the light just right and prevents the space from feeling stark. A crisp white on the cabinets and the wall trim brings even more brightness into the room. JUNE 2022 G H

BEDROOM

CLEANING LAB

GO FOR A YEAR-ROUND BEACH VIBE.

Your bedroom is meant to be a retreat, and that’s exactly what design ﬁrm Arterberry Cooke kept in mind during this transformation. Original wood paneling and walls decked out in Behr’s Mountain Falls make for a calming atmosphere.

CLEAR COBWEBS Intricate chandeliers serve as stylish focal points, but these fancy details can harbor spiderwebs and dust. To remove them, grab an extendable disposable or microﬁber duster. Look for one that expands to at least six feet, giving you 11 feet or more of reach, and that has a pivoting head to clean at all angles.

Cleaning How-To For videos of how to make some of your most-used items sparkle, scan here.

G H JUNE 2022

Skip the stains.

Our New Gold Standard for Durability. Now more stain, scuff, and scratch resistant than ever before. ©2022 The Sherwin-Williams Company. HGTV and HGTV Home and their associated logos are trademarks of Discovery or its subsidiaries HUK H SPH[LZ (SS YPNO[Z YLZLY]LK 36>,»: HUK .HISL 4HUZHYK +LZPNU HYL YLNPZ[LYLK [YHKLTHYRZ VM 3- 33* (SS HYL \ZLK ^P[O WLYTPZZPVU

FOY E R

ADD A FINISHING TOUCH

CLEANING LAB

An unexpected light ﬁxture, like a crystal chandelier, can act like jewelry in a utilitarian space.

ADD MORE STORAGE TO THE ENTRY. Any busy family needs a simple area equipped to handle real life. Since the ﬁrst ﬂoor lacked a traditional utility closet, a built-in cabinet was installed to keep everyday essentials like coats and gloves under wraps. And Arterberry Cooke didn’t stop there: The cabinet and walls are all painted in Benjamin Moore’s Gray Owl to pull the space together. “We wanted it to feel like it was already a part of the room and sort of fade away,” says Cooke.

BENCH

RUG

PLANTER

CHANDELIER

JERIMIAH SPINDLEBACK BENCH BY CROWN MARK, $184, HAYNEEDLE.COM

OLIVER INDOOR/OUTDOOR RED/BLUE AREA RUG, $170, ALLMODERN.COM

LARGE PALLAS PLANTER, $98, THESILL.COM

ALOA DECOR 3-LIGHTS CHROME INTERIOR DECOR CRYSTAL TIERED PENDANT, $133, HOMEDEPOT.COM

G H JUNE 2022

KEEP IT BRIGHT WITH WHITE. Instead of overwhelming the pool house with strong colors and patterns, white walls “keep as much light bouncing around as possible,” says Cooke, noting that she wanted it to have the same breezy feeling as the main house. The timeless neutral was layered with natural materials, like a rattan headboard and a jute living room rug, to enhance the coastal aesthetic. “Finally the house feels cohesive,” Cooke says.

Say Hello to Summer With a Clean & Healthy Home Chem-Dry has been a trusted name in carpet cleaning for over 45 years, and for good reason. Our revolutionary Hot Carbonating Extraction cleaning process provides a deeper, longer-lasting clean by utilizing the power of carbonation. Thanks to this innovative process, you can count on Chem-Dry to deliver a deeper, healthier clean that is safe for your children and pets.

So go ahead, live your life. We’ll clean up.

Carpet Cleaner TM

Protect the roof that protects your family

STAINGUARD PLUS ™

ALGAE PROTECTION

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Get the 25-Year StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection Limited Warranty1 For beauty and durability, Timberline HDZ® Shingles offer everything you look for in an architectural shingle, and more — now with GAF Time-Release Algae-Protection Technology and a 25-year StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection Limited Warranty1 against blue-green algae discoloration. Find out more at gaf.com/StainGuardPlus

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25-year StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection Limited Warranty against blue-green algae discoloration is available only on products sold in packages bearing the StainGuard Plus™ logo. See GAF Shingle & Accessory Limited Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions, and qualifying products.

FOR SIMILAR: HUDSON TANGIER EMERALD PORCELAIN MOSAIC TILE BY MEROLA TILE, $15 PER SQ. FT., HOMEDEPOT.COM

Tile

It Up! Give any room a fresh look with trendy tile ideas that put a spotlight on color, intriguing shapes and unexpected patterns.

Chad Zellner. Designed by Rebecca Gibbs Design.

by M ON IQ U E VALE RI S

JUNE 2022 G H

40C

Yo u r H O m e / T I L E T RE N DS

add pat terns to a staircas e .

Create an accent wall in the bathroom. This dramatic tile backdrop is perfect paired with a modern freestanding tub accentuated by a vintage Persian rug. The tile’s ocean blue hue is a nod to the homeowner’s love of surﬁng, and it acts as a counterpoint to the predominantly white palette. “With the all-white ﬂoors and walls, the blue-and-white tile ties in perfectly, feeling almost like a tapestry,” says designer Regan Baker.

TRENDING LOOKS

Repl ace th e b ricks on a firepl ac e .

HANDMADE ARGANA IN BLUE AND WHITE 8" × 8" TILE BY MOROCCAN MOSAIC, $121 FOR 12, OVERSTOCK.COM

BAROQUE STAMP 8" × 8" GLAZED PORCELAIN FLOOR AND WALL TILE BY MSI, $37 PER CASE, HOMEDEPOT.COM

BRANDO BLUE 8" X 8" MATTE PORCELAIN TILE, $8 PER SQ. FT., TILEBAR.COM

40D

G H JUNE 2022

Make a statement with textured tile for the hearth instead of a classic brick treatment. Husband and wife Jamie and Morgan Molitor of Construction2style turned a basic ﬁreplace into a conversation starter with metallic gold tiles. The daring geometric pattern of the Tile Shop design was inspired by the art of embroidering with metal wires. “Oversize, large-format and three-dimensional tiles are big for 2022,” says Morgan. “I can see this tile in many diﬀerent rooms, depending on the need.”

Blue mosaic: Sarah Hebenstreit; designed by Regan Baker Design. Staircase: Jennie Corti Photography; designed by Michelle Lisac Interior Design. Fireplace: Chelsie Lopez; designed by Construction2style.

The graphic staircase in this California Spanish-style home shows off the beauty of these handmade terra-cotta tiles from Tabarka Studio. Each of the patterns is slightly different, and the black-andwhite color scheme offers “a great contrast with the warmth of the white oak on the stair treads,” says designer Michelle Lisac. Want to recreate the look on a budget? “Paint the stair risers with stencils, or use peel-and-stick decals that look like tiles,” she advises.

Swiffer WetJet Wood is specially designed to care for hardwood floors. Ultra-fine mist spray provides even coverage Soft, microfiber-like pad absorbs & locks dirt & grime Quickdry solution dries in half the time*

Safe on all ﬁnished hardwood

Swiffer WetJet Wood provides a fast and convenient clean on wood ﬂoors that leaves them looking their best. © Procter & Gamble, 2021

CAROLYN FORTé GH HOME CARE LAB EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

How to

@fortecarolyn

CLEAN ANYTHING

CLEANING LAB

Follow these step-by-step guides from our GH Cleaning Lab pros to deep-clean often-overlooked spots.

Television screen

Use a cloth.

The safest way to clean any screen is by wiping it with a dry microﬁber cloth—with millions of tiny surfaces, these cloths trap dust and nix smudges without scratching. Pick a large one to make cleaning a big-screen TV easier, and rotate the cloth as it picks up dust.

Choose a duster.

If your TV is wall-mounted or hard to access, a duster—especially one with an extendable handle and a pivoting head—may give you the longest reach. Dust vertically, then horizontally, across the screen. Don’t forget the base, the buttons and the back.

Remove smudges.

To prevent streaks, avoid using pretreated dusting cloths — made for dusting furniture, they contain oils that can mar electronics. For a stubborn smudge (usually noticeable when the TV is off), rub gently with a dry microfiber cloth, which also works well for zapping greasy fingerprints.

G H JUNE 2022

Spot-clean gunk.

For pesky or sticky spots that won’t budge with wiping alone, try a premoistened electronics cleaning wipe, like those from GH Seal star Weiman. Make sure the wipe isn’t overly wet, then gently dab the spot. Dry it promptly with a microﬁber cloth.

TV cleaning: Lauren DeThomasis and Rob Mroczko.

Delicate tech needs TLC to stay clean and dust-free. Follow these steps to be sure your favorite shows look clear and sharp.

CL EA NIN G G UIDE / yo u r h o m e

Washing machine

Washing machine cleaning: Lauren DeThomasis and Rob Mroczko.

Trapped water and residue in your machine can lead to mold and odors. Freshen it fast!

Use a machine cleaner.

Ready-made washing machine cleaners, like the one from GH Seal star Tide, are the easiest way to get the job done. They dissolve odor-causing dirt, detergent, hard water and other residue on the internal parts. Once a month, simply add one to the machine as directed and run a normal hot wash cycle.

Pour in bleach.

Like mouthwash for your machine, a bleach rinse is an eﬀective way to eliminate germs and odor-causing bacteria lurking inside, though it may not dissolve other deposits. Add 1⁄2 cup of chlorine bleach to your machine or ﬁll the dispenser to the “max” line. Select the self-clean option or a normal hot wash cycle.

Rinse and scrub.

Once the cleaning is complete, reset the machine for just a rinse and a spin cycle. This will ﬂush away any loose deposits and bleach that might have been left behind. Pop out the dispenser drawer and give it a scrub under running water with a soft brush to remove any detergent or softener gunk.

JUNE 2022 G H

Dry the drum and the door.

Keeping your machine dry is the key to keeping it fresh. After cleaning and whenever your laundry session is done, wipe oﬀ water droplets inside the door, in and around the rubber door gasket and on the interior parts and sections of the dispenser drawer. If you see any water in the drum, nab that too.

yo u r h o m e / CL E ANI NG GUID E

how to clean anything For more videos on ways to make common household items sparkle, scan here.

Household sponges

Mix the solution.

Into a basin or a bowl, pour 3 Tbsp of bleach and 1 qt of warm water (for more than one sponge, use 3⁄4 cup of bleach and 1 gallon of water). Stir to mix in the bleach.

Soak the sponge.

Rinse and squeeze out the sponge, then place it in the bleach solution. Soak at least ﬁve minutes, ﬂipping the sponge over midway through the soak.

Rinse and dry.

Remove the sponge from the bleach mix, rinse thoroughly, squeeze well and air-dry. Do this simple soak at least twice a week (every other day is better) to help keep bacteria and odors under control.

JUNE 2022

Toss periodically.

Throw sponges away when they start to fall apart— usually after two to three weeks, depending on how they’re used. One of the next best methods in our test was running a sponge through a normal dishwasher cycle with heated dry.

Sponge cleaning: Lauren DeThomasis and Rob Mroczko.

Kitchen sponges are loaded with bacteria — in our test, these techniques killed over 99.9% of three common strains.

Even when all your garbage is all gross. Glad® with Clorox bags eliminate TM

food and bacterial odors to keep all your trash all under control. This product is bleach-free.

CLEANING LAB

We’ve tested thousands of vacuums and mops over the years, but this is our first look at the new combo bare floor cleaning devices. The verdict: No more crying over spilled milk!

CO R E

100 best overall

PRODUCT INFO

• Dry debris pickup • Wet mess pickup • Stain removal • Ease of cleaning

C S

This black and rose gold wet/dry vacuum and mop has Eco and Max cleaning modes, a self-clean function, an LCD screen to track battery charge and water tank levels and optional voice prompts. The Ilife can even be used as a regular vacuum to clean hard ﬂoors and area rugs without wetting them, and it did so better than others in our test. ILIFE EASINE W100 CORDLESS WET DRY VACUUM & MOP, AMAZON.COM

best value

Tineco’s model comes with a smart app for troubleshooting issues and checking on cleaning performance. As it detects messes, a ring around the LCD display changes color and both the suction and the water ﬂow to the roller brush are increased. It comes with a 3-in-1 tool to clean the dirty-water tank and the vacuum nozzle and remove hair from the roller. TINECO FLOOR ONE S3 CORDLESS FLOOR CLEANER, AMAZON.COM

Weighing just under 9 lbs—the lightest of our picks—this aﬀordable wet/dry vac is packed with features like an LCD display, a 600-ml clean-water tank and voice prompts saying when it’s time to reﬁll the clean-water tank or empty the dirty-water one. Choose from two dry modes for vacuuming and two wet modes for wet cleanup and mopping. Its white and purple color scheme set it apart from the competition.

easiest to maneuver The sleek, steerable design of this wet/dry vacuum, with its water tanks ﬂush to the main body, makes it a model we’d leave out even when guests are over. Along with built-in features like a brush roll that gets cleaned as you clean up messes, automatic suction boost and an almost 900-ml clean-water tank, the Dreametech comes with an extra ﬁlter, a roller brush and a bottle of cleaning solution.

LUNAGLOW NANO CORDLESS WET DRY VACUUM, WALMART.COM

DREAMETECH H11 MAX CORDLESS WET DRY VACUUM, AMAZON.COM

$259

$500

PROS

$400

• Best pickup of wet, dry and combo messes in our tests • Washable HEPA ﬁlter • Zapped a stain in one pass

• Intuitive self-clean function increases water ﬂow if rollers are extra dirty • Had the largest-capacity dirtywater tank in our test (700 ml)

• Has a dry mode for vacuuming area rugs without water • Uses cleaning-solution capsules instead of heavy bottles of liquid

• Suction increases automatically as wet and dry messes are detected • Speedy water pickup mode cleans wet puddles in one minute

TAKE NOTE

$300

easiest to keep clean

• No ﬁlter in the dirty water tank to catch dry debris • Isn’t self-propelled, so it requires pushing

• Not for ultraﬁne dust, but aced our baking soda pickup test • Battery takes up to ﬁve hours to charge fully

• Self-clean had to be run a few times to really clean the rollers • One of the loudest models we tested

• Weighs almost 11 lbs even with an empty clean-water tank • Fine dry debris was hard to clean from the ﬁlter

LAB RESULTS

PRICE

how we tested Cleaning appliance experts clocked over 100 hours evaluating 11 wet/dry vacuums. They cleaned 143 messes and logged more than 290 data points. Wet/dry vacuums were scored on factors like:

It earned the highest overall performance score for its stellar wet and dry pickup, stain removal, sound level and battery run and charge times. During wet pickup tests, it was even able to suction up water that wasn’t directly in its path, and it left the competition in the dust during our expert’s area rug vacuuming test. Plus, it had one of the best self-clean functions.

Because these combo wet/dry vacuums can be difficult to clean, our expert suggests holding on to your mop and broom—but that's not an issue with the Tineco. Its self-clean function washed out cereal, coffee grounds, ketchup and grape soda easily, and it was the only model not to have dry debris caught in the filter. It cleaned well with both water alone and the cleaning solution.

A great performer at a great price, the Lunaglow was a champ in our wet pickup tests, sucking up water and grape soda without a hiccup. And it cleaned a dried soy sauce stain from our vinyl test ﬂoor in a jiﬀy. Included in our ease-of-use tests was an evaluation of each model’s user manual: The Lunaglow’s received the highest score for having the most robust information compared with other tested models’.

This wet/dry vacuum was one of the quietest models we tested and also had one of the longest run times. Like the Tineco, it automatically increases suction as more debris is detected and was one of only two models that cleaned up ketchup without leaving any streaks behind. It required the least eﬀort to push across vinyl and wood ﬂoors and to maneuver around tight corners and under furniture.

JUNE 2022

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Karen Desperately Wanted to Live Her Life. She Also Wanted to Be Free to Choose How It Ended.

“I’m grateful that when I decide enough is enough, I don’t need to suﬀer anymore.”

Getty Images.

by GINNY GRAVES

JUNE 2022 G H

L i f e + h e a lt h / POINT OF VIEW

From the time she was young, Karen Oelschlaeger lived as if she knew the clock was ticking. Whatever she was doing — traveling, volunteering, studying — she was all in.

:: Karen traveled as much as possible in the months before her death. “She never lost her passion for adventure,” says Alex Ballantyne, Karen’s longtime friend and former boyfriend.

been diagnosed three months before had healed. Afterward, she received devastating news: The nausea and vomiting she’d been battling for months wasn’t an ulcer. It was signet-ring cell carcinoma, a form of stomach cancer that grows rapidly and has a 70% to 80% chance of recurring, usually within a couple of years. “Karen texted me the news, and I called her immediately,” recalls Eric Oelschlaeger, her older brother. “She said, ‘I don’t know anyone who has had stomach cancer and lived.’ She was in shock. We all were. And though we hoped otherwise, we all were thinking the same thing: There’s a very good chance she’s not going to survive this.” Karen followed her doctors’ advice, and they treated the cancer aggressively — eight weeks of chemotherapy followed by surgery to remove part of her stomach and small intestine, then more chemo and radiation. The painful nine-month ordeal left her fatigued, dehydrated, malnourished and unable to keep most food down. “Karen desperately wanted to live,” says Linda. “She loved food and travel and life. She had so many things she wanted to accomplish.” Karen knew the medical odds were against her, says Linda. She knew that if the cancer returned, the road ahead would include horrible suffering. And while she wanted to eke every last moment of joy and meaning out of her life, she also wanted to have a say in when it ended. As an attorney, Karen knew she legally had that right thanks to the Vermont Patient Choice and Control at the End of Life Act, which allows certain terminally ill adults to obtain a prescription for a lethal dose of medication. “Karen was such an independent soul. I wasn’t surprised when she began talking about that option not long after she was diagnosed,” recalls Linda.

G H JUNE 2022

Courtesy of the family of Karen Oelschlaeger.

As a teenager, she once set off at 2 a.m. from her home in Charlotte, NC, to drive hours to the beach just to see the sun rise. In high school, while her peers were planning proms and parties, she spent her free time volunteering for the Sierra Club’s Sierra Student Coalition and raising money for Save the Children. During a yearlong college study-abroad program in Spain, she ate only Spanish food, spoke only Spanish and opted to rent a room in an apartment with a Spanish woman and her daughter instead of living in the student dorms. And in 2007, before completing her master’s degree in social work and earning a law degree, she started a dog-walking and pet-sitting company just to prove to herself that she could launch a successful business and fend for herself ﬁnancially. “That was Karen,” says her mom, Linda Oelschlaeger. “She was compelled to live more fully and dive deeper into experiences than most people. She was strongwilled, smart, passionate and funny.” Meghan Place, a colleague of Karen’s who became a close friend, admired her directness. “We shared a passion for the same ideals and outrage at the same injustices, but she had a way of turning ideas into action,” says Meghan. “She’d say, ‘What are we going to do about it?’ ” But in May 2018, two days before her 34th birthday, that question became personal for Karen when she had a procedure to see whether the ulcer with which she’d

POINT OF VIEW / l i f e + h e a lt h

Courtesy of the family of Karen Oelschlaeger.

Weighing 80 lbs and ravaged by pain, Karen swung into activist mode one final time. In 1997, Oregon became the ﬁrst state to put a Death With Dignity Act into effect. Today, medical aid in dying is effectively legal in 10 states as well as Washington, DC. The statutes allow certain mentally competent adults who have a terminal illness and are predicted to live six months or less to obtain a prescription for medication to end their lives. (Doctors in different locations authorize a variety of drug concoctions.) Not everyone who gets lethal medication uses it. Statistics compiled by the Death With Dignity National Center show that in 2019, doctors in ﬁve states — California, Hawaii, Maine, Oregon and Vermont — wrote 973 prescriptions for lethal medication, and 637 people died by ingesting it. In Vermont, more than 70 people have used the drugs since the law went into effect in 2013.

wanted to utilize the death-with-dignity drug if the cancer came back,” Karen says in the emotional voice-over to a five-minute photo montage that shows the brunette at various places she loved, such as hiking trails and the beach. “I’ve always prided myself on my independence. And this illness has really been humbling. It has been humbling to watch my body fail — fail to support me, fail to do its job the way I’m used to. But also the loss of independence has been really hard. I’m very grateful to have an option to utilize on the day when I decide, Enough is enough; I don’t need to suffer anymore.” After her initial treatment, Karen felt better and was stable for nearly a year. She took a trip to Norway and saw the Northern Lights, a longtime dream. She visited her family in North Carolina a number of times. Then the nausea, vomiting and pain came roaring back. The doctors thought she had adhesions (scarring in which abdominal tissues stick together), a common side effect after abdominal surgery. But during surgery for the adhesions in August 2020, they found that the cancer had returned — and it had spread throughout her abdomen. “Karen was devastated. She was diagnosed with Stage IV

stomach cancer and given weeks to months to live,” says Linda. “I rented an apartment near her house in Vermont so I could be with her till the end.”

Fighting the Flaws in the System Karen set her mind on getting a prescription for the medical-aid-in-dying drug, but since her oncologist was in New Hampshire, she had to start from square one. As Karen explains in the Patient Choices Vermont video, “When the cancer actually came back, I was in the hospital trying to line up appointments with medical providers who would help me. It is hard when you are dying and hospitalized, healing from a major surgery and grieving this major loss, to go through the logistics of it.” The further Karen got into the process, the more she recognized its flaws. Two physicians had to confirm a patient’s residency, diagnosis, prognosis and mental competence, and each step in requests for control of the timing of death had to be made voluntarily — and in person. There was a mandatory waiting period between the two requests and another one between receiving the prescription and filling it. Karen believed that the requirements were unnecessarily burdensome for terminally ill patients, particularly given that so much of health care had pivoted

A Humbling Reality Sets In Shortly after Karen’s cancer had recurred and spread, medical aid in dying joined her list of passions, and she spoke out about why it was important in a video for Patient Choices Vermont, a nonprofit organization dedicated to end-of-life choice. “I was very, very clear starting back in 2018 that I

:: Karen with her niece Ava in 2020, less than a year before Karen’s death. JUNE 2022 G H

L i f e + h e a lt h / POINT OF VIEW

Embracing Life to the Fullest After the recurrence, Karen tried immunotherapy in a last-ditch effort to prolong her life. It didn’t help. “We talked a lot about death in those eight months after the recurrence,” says Linda. “She hoped there would be life after death and that our souls or spirits would be reunited. At one point, she said, ‘I’ll always be with you, Mom.’ ” But Karen was even more focused on her life and reclaiming as much of it as she could. In November 2020, she ﬂew to Asheville to visit Eric and his family. In December, she went to Glacier National Park in Montana. In January 2021, she went to Costa Rica. A photo she posted to Facebook shows her standing on a rocky shore in a leopard-print swimsuit, smiling broadly, hands on her hips. “She bought that swimsuit for the trip,” says Alex Ballantyne, a longtime friend and former boyfriend.

:: Karen in Costa Rica in early 2021. “Travel gave her something to look forward to,” says Eric Oelschlaeger, Karen’s older brother.

“She never lost her passion for adventure.” Two weeks before she died, Karen called Eric and said, “I need you to buy a private jet so I can get to Lima, Peru,” Eric recalls. “She was joking, but only half joking,” he says. “Travel gave her something to look forward to.” Even so, she was suffering horribly. She hadn’t had a meal since before Thanksgiving. In her final few months, she couldn’t keep down even ice or water. “There can be a lot of pressure in our society to keep fighting, keep fighting, keep fighting, especially as a young cancer patient,” Karen says in the Patient Choices video. “And I think what folks don’t always realize is that sometimes ‘Keep fighting’ is really just a lot of prolonged physical suffering that gets worse and worse.” Her inner strength stunned even those who knew her best. “She was in unimaginable emotional and physical pain, and she was still determined to take control of her life and make the choices that were right for her,” says Meghan. “Karen was a firecracker of a human being.”

The Beginning of a Beautiful End On the evening of Saturday, April 17, Karen said goodbye to Eric and his 10-year-old daughter, Ava, whom Karen adored and who

G H JUNE 2022

had been visiting Karen in Vermont for several days. Karen called Linda midday on Sunday, April 18, and asked her to come over and rub her feet, the only part of her body that didn’t hurt when touched. “Karen had the blinds drawn, which was unusual, and she asked me to leave not long after I arrived,” recalls Linda. “Several hours later I texted her to see if I could come over and get her IV nutrition ready. She said, ‘No, I’m thinking about taking my drugs tonight.’ I said, ‘May I come over?’ and she said, ‘Yes.’ ” Karen had her medications prepared and a schedule in place for taking them. She texted friends and family to say I love you. “When she texted me, I told her how much I loved her. I told her she was magical and brave and magnificent,” says Meghan. “She sent me a voice-to-text response and said ‘I love you’ 12 times.” That night, Karen took a cocktail of medications, including an anti-nausea drug. Around 10 p.m., she took the drug that would end her life. “Talk about bravery — this little girl of mine, she looked at me, paused ever so slightly and swallowed that medication,” says Linda. “I don’t know if I could do that, even if I was suffering as badly as she was. We said ‘I love you’ to each other. Within five minutes, she was in a coma.” Per Karen’s request, Linda put on a version of “Asleep” by the Smiths, with the lyrics: Sing me to sleep Sing me to sleep And then leave me alone Don’t try to wake me in the morning ’Cause I will be gone Don’t feel bad for me I want you to know Deep in the cell of my heart I will feel so glad to go. For the rest of the night, Linda rubbed Karen’s feet. She sang her lullabies, brushed her hair and held her hand. “Those were sacred times,” Linda says. By Monday morning, April 19, 2021, her firecracker of a daughter, who had burned so hot and so bright, was gone. In Karen’s obituary, which she wrote herself, she encouraged others to live by her example. “In lieu of flowers,” she wrote, “live your best life now — just in case.”

Courtesy of the family of Karen Oelschlaeger.

to telemedicine. She knew advocates in Vermont had introduced a bill to change the Patient Choice and Control at the End of Life Act to allow telemedicine appointments. So, weighing around 80 lbs and ravaged by pain, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, she swung into activist mode one ﬁnal time. First she did the Patient Choices video, in which she explains, “I had to physically go get myself in front of this doctor, which is hard when you’re dying. I was profoundly malnourished and dehydrated and vomiting pretty much constantly, so it’s rough to drive 45 minutes and sit in a waiting room and have to get dressed and engage with someone you know you might puke in front of. So, yeah, I think removal of that requirement would just be a huge relief.” A week before she died, she did an interview with Vermont Public Radio. In it, she says, “I did not know if I would be alive for this interview today because, you know, my symptoms have gotten really bad again. I think one reason I made the time to voice my opinion about the telemedicine requirement is, if it can make a difference for someone else during such a difficult time of their life, and just anything to spare them any additional suffering or burden during what is such a challenging time emotionally, physically, spiritually — that would be worth it.”

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ES SAY / l i f e + H e a lt h

“She was one of my closest friends, but we never met.” Across continents, my pen pal and I shared the details of our lives — marriages, kids, moves — for nearly four decades. As our correspondence shifted from pen and paper to email, our bond shrank the distance between us. by SHARON WALDROP

My friendship with Giovanna started in 1982, when I was 20, by means of an advertisement from a company called International Pen Friends. For a nominal fee (paid by check or money order), along with the completion of a brief survey, a would-be correspondent was matched with a like-minded individual from their country of choice. I gravitated toward having a pen pal from Italy. My father’s grandparents and their eight children had traveled across the Atlantic from Calabria, Italy, to Ellis Island in 1924. The family eventually settled in Blue Island, IL, a suburb of Chicago. About a month after putting a stamp on my International Pen Friends envelope, I received in the mail Giovanna’s name and address as well as her completed questionnaire. My grandfather’s birth name was

Giovanni, so I felt connected to her immediately. She was also 20, and we both still lived with our parents and planned to do so until marriage. Her best friend and I shared the same birth date. I knew this meant I would always receive a timely birthday card. I did. Giovanna was a linguistics major, ﬂuent in French, Spanish, German and English. Corresponding with me would help her English writing skills, she said, but her knowledge of the language seemed perfect to me, though it tended toward the British version — she went on “holiday” instead of “vacation” and attended “university” instead of “a university.” Her Christmas dinner was accompanied by an antipasto platter of olives, Genoa salami, capicola, prosciutto and a ﬁne panettone. Back in the ’80s and ’90s, it took what seemed like an eternity for mail to travel overseas. Our letters were few and far

JUNE 2022

between — we averaged about four per year, and I learned at least one thing about Italy in each one. I envied the access Giovanna had to different cultures. My mini vacations were quick trips to Las Vegas or Arizona; hers were to nearby Vienna, Switzerland, France or England. I have dozens of postcards sent to me from different countries, whereas the ones I sent her were just from places in the U.S. Giovanna’s education was very important to her. On more than one occasion she spent months in Germany to master the language. Though her permanent residence was with her parents, she shared a “flat” with two schoolmates in her home city of Turin when her university was in session. She loved fashion and sent me clips of the latest styles in Italy. She talked often about the carnivals with masks, and I remember a picture of Pulcinella and Arlecchino once sailing out of the envelope as I opened a letter. I have fond memories of everything about the ’80s, and Giovanna was a big part of it. We were both music fans: I was envious that she saw the Rolling Stones in July 1982. But that was OK, because I saw Bruce Springsteen in Los Angeles a couple of years later. In 1983 we wrote about our love of Dallas, Dynasty and Flamingo Road on television. She did not laugh at the Gunne Sax bridesmaid dresses with puffy sleeves in the pictures from my 1984 wedding. Despite our living on different sides of the world from each other, our common interests were uncanny. I have the feeling that even if we had not both turned to International Pen Friends for a pen pal,

Illustrations of women: Adobe Stock. Building, envelope and dotted line: Getty Images. Box of letters and photograph: Courtesy of Sharon Anne Molinaro Waldrop.

ES SAY / l i f e + H e a lt h

our paths would have crossed elsewhere. Though we had a lot in common, our lives were also very different. Giovanna grew up in the country and continued to live there; I lived in a big city near Los Angeles. She married once and never moved after the nuptials. I walked down the aisle twice and lived in 10 houses in seven cities, including three cross-country moves. She had one child, a daughter. I had four, three girls and a boy. Giovanna was fascinated with my life, which was so different from hers, and was always asking questions. She cared, wanting to keep up with the news about my growing family. I had an interest in her life and career as a linguistics professor, and I took a break from family life to read each of her letters as soon as it arrived. Decades later I still felt the same excitement inside as I had when the ﬁrst letter had come. We often wrote about meeting someday. When I announced that I had won money at a blackjack table in Las Vegas, she kiddingly said, “Perhaps the money would be put to good use toward a second honeymoon to Italy.” She enticed me by saying she would make the spaghetti al pomodoro recipe with fresh Roma tomatoes that she had shared with me in a past letter. It was on my bucket list to visit my family’s birthplace in Italy, and meeting Giovanna while there would be the highlight. She couldn’t wait to show me around. I knew we would meet someday.

The ﬁrst picture Giovanna sent of herself, in 1982.

A box of letters from Giovanna. I kept every one she sent.

Giovanna did not send photos as often as I did, but she sent occasional gifts. I still have a small framed picture from Turin hanging on the wall in my bedroom (of which I have had many since it arrived). I even received an authentic panettone, knowing that the price of the postage was more than that of the treat itself. The few photos I received from Giovanna include one from when she started university, a wedding picture and several of her daughter. Her daughter was 2 when my son was born, and I remember Giovanna writing to me that her daughter loved seeing pictures of “baby Ian” and asked to look at him daily. Our handwritten letters across the ocean talking about our babies and toddlers suddenly became emails proudly announcing college graduations. How had this happened so fast? One thing I didn’t realize we had in common was heart issues. My mother died of heart disease in her mid-60s, and my cholesterol soared when I became premenopausal. I also have atrial ﬁbrillation (AFib), a type of irregular heartbeat. I feel like a cardiac time bomb, afraid I’ll drop dead at a moment’s notice. I never corresponded with Giovanna’s daughter. I remembered when she was born, knew her name and had received a few pictures. When I saw her name in my email inbox on Christmas Eve in 2020, I knew there was only one reason she would write to me in response to the Christmas card I had sent. Is Giovanna hurt? I wondered. Why isn’t JUNE 2022 G H

she writing to me herself? This can’t be good. Giovanna’s daughter’s note said: It is with deep sadness that I write to inform you that my mother suddenly passed away on August 27. She was heading to a meeting with her colleagues and had a heart attack. Thank you for your wishes. My father and I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. The knot in my throat took my breath away. I was the one whose heart was supposed to suddenly cease beating. I sorted through my box of letters from Giovanna, took out her handwritten recipe for spaghetti al pomodoro and made it for dinner that evening. But ﬁrst I wrote back to her daughter and told her that her English was perfect, just as her mother’s had been. There are people in our lives whom we do not see or communicate with daily but who are an irreplaceable part of us. Giovanna was one of them for me. I know that if we had met in person after almost four decades of letters, cards and emails, there would have been neither moments of silence nor time needed to become acquainted. We were already close friends, though we never laid eyes on each other. I was sad about her death, of course; I still am. I won’t be able to hug Giovanna, or to kiss her on both cheeks as is customary in Italy. But I relish the memory of her. We were lucky to have each other. And the best part: She may be gone, but I’ll always have her letters.

CLEANING TIP NO. 4

Shed your shoes

when you come home so as to keep carpets and ﬂoors cleaner longer.

There’s so much going on in the world that’s completely out of your control. But what you can do is tidy up the messiness inside your own mind. By addressing nagging worries, doing a bit of housekeeping and injecting your life with a shot of simplicity, you can open up space for more love, optimism and joy. Here’s how to feel better fast.

Consciously forgive someone

If you’re still nursing a wound because you weren’t invited to a wedding years ago, consider shedding the burden. “Sometimes you may fear that you’re ‘giving in’ if you let go of a grudge, but you’re just giving yourself the opportunity not to let something that happened in the past aﬀect your future,” says Elana Miller, M.D., an integrative psychiatrist in Los Angeles. Not only will the act of forgiveness help you move on, but also research has shown that it can lower levels of anxiety and stress.

G H JUNE 2022

Getty Images.

by MARISA COHEN

QUI ET YOUR MIND / l i f e + h e a lt h

a professor at Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology. “But we tend to feel horrible afterward.” Ho suggests limiting scrolling to 25 minutes, with a hard stop (something you must do) when time’s up.

Cradling a cup of tea in your hands can make you feel cozy and at peace.

Take a slow sip of tea

Cradling a cup of tea in your hands can make you feel cozy and at peace, and being mindful can boost the beneﬁts, says New York City–based meditation instructor Kirat Randhawa. “Notice the color of the tea leaves, the shape of the mug, the scent, what the tea tastes like and how it feels in the body,” she says. Harney & Sons Yellow & Blue Tea, which combines calming chamomile, lavender and cornﬂowers, is an extra-relaxing sip.

Maris Kiselov/stock.adobe.com.

Get that worrisome “thing” checked out

You know, that mole, pain or bump you tell yourself is nothing (you’re probably right!) but that you’re not 100% sure about. Such things can gnaw at you, and research tells us uncertainty is a lot more stressful than knowing what to expect, good or bad. So have a doctor look at it already! Either you’ll breathe a sigh of relief or you’ll get it treated right away. “Often what seems like a big deal for you is routine for your doctor — they’ve seen it all and can take some of the worry oﬀ your plate,” says Dr. Miller.

Take one small action

Whether the subject is politics, eco-anxiety or the invasion of Ukraine, worry about the state of the world we share leaves many of us feeling overwhelmed or

paralyzed. But taking a concrete action every day (helping with a campaign, donating time or money to a cause or biking instead of driving if it’s climate change that is weighing on you) moves you one small step closer to a better world and may make you feel more empowered.

Apologize for that awkward moment

Whether you blurted something insensitive to a colleague or you forgot your sister’s birthday, guilt may be quietly poking at you. By clearing the air, you’ll repair any damage — or discover that it wasn’t the drama you imagined in the ﬁrst place. “We often feel as if there’s a spotlight on us, believe other people are thinking about us way more than they are,” says Dr. Miller. “Honestly, no one has the time and energy to judge us as harshly as we judge ourselves.”

Limit your social media

Bad news — and the screeching tone of people arguing about everything from vaccines to The Bachelor — can feel like a toothache you can’t help poking your tongue into. But staying up late reading every rant can leave you stressed and exhausted. “Doomscrolling is a way for your brain to try to maintain control in a very uncontrollable situation in our world,” says neuropsychologist Judy Ho, Ph.D., JUNE 2022 G H

Chew on some cherries

Swap to-do’s with a friend

Do a cathartic mini-cleanup

The fun-to-eat fruit contains the antioxidant quercetin, which may help promote feelings of calmness, says Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Stefani Sassos, deputy director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Nutrition Lab. She suggests roasting them to bring out the ﬂavor and adding them to ricotta cheese on toast.

There’s always one chore you just can’t seal the deal on — and seeing it reappear on your to-do list only makes you feel bad. Instead, ask a friend who doesn’t mind hemming your daughter’s skirt to help you out with that, and do a task she hates (say, updating her computer) that feels like no biggie to you.

Spending just a few minutes cleaning one spot that’s been grossing you out (like the crumb-ﬁlled sofa cushions or that sticky shelf in your pantry) can give you beneﬁts fast, because it requires a little planning and a short burst of physical activity, both of which can reduce stress, says Debra Kissen, Ph.D., cochair of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America’s education committee. Plus, think how much better you’ll feel when you can sit on the couch without its making a weird crunching sound!

Log on for support

Because “we have all been so isolated over the past couple of years,” says Dr. Miller, it’s easy to believe you’re the only one struggling with a personal challenge. Support groups can be helpful for whatever is going on. “You can get tips on coping, but just realizing that this is a shared experience can relieve a lot of stress,” she adds.

Breathe Through Your Feet

When you’re feeling pulled in too many directions, you can center yourself by bringing attention to your feet, says Randhawa. If you’re indoors (or outdoors someplace clean and safe), take oﬀ your shoes and stand tall,

l i f e + h e a lt h / Q U IET YOU R MIND

with your shoulders relaxed. “As you breathe in, notice each toe on the ground and then feel the entire foot on the ground,” she says. “This has a way of really helping you feel in control of your body, and you’ll think, How would I like to respond in this moment?”

Look at your calendar and find one thing you really, truly don’t have to attend, like a meeting that can go on just fine without you or a social event you’re not feeling psyched about. Bow out and replace it with…nothing. “You know your body needs sleep, but it also needs rest, and those are two different things,” says Asha Tarry, L.M.S.W., a psychotherapist and the author of Adulting as a Millennial. Giving yourself permission to do nothing will recharge your battery, lower your blood pressure and allow you to think more clearly, she adds.

Declutter Your Fridge Door

The room where your family gathers to cook, eat and laugh should be a calming oasis — but it isn’t if the refrigerator is covered with paperwork, bills, menus and coupons. Spend a few minutes each week purging, suggests GH Home Editor Monique Valeris. “Get rid of dated paperwork, old photos and broken magnets — and toss the takeout menus, since you can get that info online,” she says. Instead of having a messy mix of ﬂyers and invites, write down every important date on a magnetic dry-erase

Make Monday more appealing

Walk to zone out

Remember, you’ve got this!

On Sunday, when the clock starts ticking down to Monday morning, you may experience a wave of anxiety about deadlines, toxic coworkers or a stressful commute. To dial down the “Sunday Scaries,” schedule something you enjoy for Mondays: lunch with your favorite colleague, after-work drinks with friends or a night to binge your favorite streaming series.

Walking is a proven way to relieve stress — especially when your stroll takes you through nature. But the calming eﬀect can get undercut by tense thoughts, so ﬁll your head with a funny podcast (we love Getting Curious With Jonathan Van Ness and The Two Princes) to lift your mood.

You have all the tools you need to get through whatever you’re dealing with. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in New York City, suggests this exercise: Create two columns on a piece of paper. In the ﬁrst, write down a challenging situation you’ve successfully dealt with in the past; in the second, note what you did to handle it. “This helps us introduce more logic when we are caught up in our anxiety,” he says.

elf the t s u r a l l ge . o y ve d to nge d a in u h ee lle m n a o Re at y ou ch th ols y gh a to rou th

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Cancel something

calendar. (Sweetpea & Maple on Etsy and M.C. Squares have some pretty ones, Valeris says.)

G H JUNE 2022

Great tasting. Heart Healthy.

Now that’s some good housekeeping. *Three grams of soluble ﬁber daily from whole grain oat foods, like Honey Nut Cheerios™ cereal, in a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. Honey Nut Cheerios cereal provides .75 grams per serving.

WET AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION (WET AMD)

KEEP LIVING LIFE THROUGH YOUR EYES TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SIGHT WITH EYLEA. If Wet AMD has impacted your eyes—and how you see life— ﬁght back with EYLEA. • EYLEA is clinically proven to help improve vision—which may help you read letters and see details more clearly • EYLEA helped maintain vision improvements for up to 4 years with continued treatments in a clinical study

ASK A RETINA SPECIALIST ABOUT EYLEA. INDICATIONS EYLEA® (aflibercept) Injection 2 mg (0.05 mL) is a prescription medicine approved for the treatment of patients with Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), Macular Edema following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), and Diabetic Retinopathy (DR). IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION EYLEA® (aflibercept) Injection is a prescription medicine administered by injection into the eye. You should not use EYLEA if you have an infection in or around the eye, eye pain or redness, or known allergies to any of the ingredients in EYLEA, including aflibercept. Injections into the eye with EYLEA can result in an infection in the eye and retinal detachment (separation of retina from back of the eye) can occur. Inflammation in the eye has been reported with the use of EYLEA. In some patients, injections with EYLEA may cause a temporary increase in eye pressure within 1 hour of the injection. Sustained increases in eye pressure have been reported with repeated injections, and your doctor may monitor this after each injection. There is a potential but rare risk of serious and sometimes fatal side effects, related to blood clots, leading to heart attack or stroke in patients receiving EYLEA.

FDA-APPROVED treatment in its class for patients with Wet AMD*

The most common side effects reported in patients receiving EYLEA were increased redness in the eye, eye pain, cataract, vitreous (gel-like substance) detachment, vitreous ﬂoaters, moving spots in the ﬁeld of vision, and increased pressure in the eye. You may experience temporary visual changes after an EYLEA injection and associated eye exams; do not drive or use machinery until your vision recovers sufficiently. Contact your doctor right away if you think you might be experiencing any side effects, including eye pain or redness, light sensitivity, or blurring of vision, after an injection. For additional safety information, please talk to your doctor and see the full Prescribing Information for EYLEA. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Please see the Consumer Brief Summary on the adjacent page. *IBM Truven MarketScan data: Number of injections administered, from Q4 2018 through Q3 2019; Data on File.

VISIT EYLEA.COM

12/2020 EYL.20.11.0085

(Pronounced: eye•lee•ah)

Consumer Brief Summary This summary contains risk and safety information for patients about EYLEA. It does not include all the information about EYLEA and does not take the place of talking to your eye doctor about your medical condition or treatment. What is EYLEA? EYLEA is a prescription medicine that works by blocking vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF can cause fluid to leak into the macula (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for sharp central vision). Blocking VEGF helps reduce fluid from leaking into the macula. What is EYLEA used for? EYLEA is indicated for the treatment of patients with: • Neovascular (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) • Macular Edema Following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) • Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) • Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) How is EYLEA given? EYLEA is an injection administered by your eye doctor into the eye. Depending on your condition, EYLEA injections are given on different schedules. Consult with your eye doctor to confirm which EYLEA schedule is appropriate for you. Who should not use EYLEA? Do not use EYLEA if you have an infection in or around the eye, eye pain or redness, inflammation in the eye, or are allergic to aflibercept and/or any other ingredients in EYLEA. What is the most important information I should know about EYLEA? • EYLEA must only be administered by a qualified eye doctor. Injection into the eye with EYLEA can result in an infection in the eye and retinal detachment (separation of retina from back of the eye) can occur. Inflammation in the eye has been reported with the use of EYLEA. If your eye becomes red, sensitive to light, painful, or develops a change in vision, seek immediate care from an eye doctor • In some patients, injections with EYLEA may cause a temporary increase in eye pressure within 1 hour of the injection. Sustained increases in eye pressure have been reported with repeated injections, and your eye doctor may monitor this after each injection • There is a potential but rare risk of serious and sometimes fatal side effects related to blood clots, leading to heart attack or stroke in patients receiving EYLEA • Serious side effects related to the injection procedure with EYLEA are rare but can occur including infection inside the eye and retinal detachment • You may experience temporary visual changes after an EYLEA injection and associated eye exams; do not drive or use machinery until your vision recovers sufficiently • Because EYLEA is composed of large molecules, your body may react to it; therefore, there is a potential for an immune response (allergy-like) in patients treated with EYLEA What are possible side effects of EYLEA? EYLEA can cause serious side effects, including • See important safety information listed under “What is the most important information I should know about EYLEA?”

The most common side effects include • Increased redness in the eye • Eye pain • Cataract • Vitreous (gel-like substance) detachment • Vitreous floaters • Moving spots in the field of vision • Increased pressure in the eye There are other possible side effects of EYLEA. For more information, ask your eye doctor. It is important that you contact your doctor right away if you think you might be experiencing any side effects, including eye pain or redness, light sensitivity, or blurring of vision, after an injection. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. What should I tell my eye doctor before receiving EYLEA? • Tell your eye doctor if you have any medical conditions • Tell your eye doctor if you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant. It is not known if EYLEA may harm your unborn baby • Tell your eye doctor if you are breastfeeding. It is not known if EYLEA may harm your baby. You and your eye doctor should decide whether you should be treated with EYLEA or breastfeed, but you should not do both How is EYLEA supplied? EYLEA is supplied in a clear, colorless to pale yellow solution. It is provided in a pre-filled glass syringe or glass vial containing the amount of product required for a single injection into the eye, which is 0.05 mL (or 2 mg of the medicine product). Where can I learn more about EYLEA? For a more comprehensive review of EYLEA safety and risk information, talk to your health care provider and see the full Prescribing Information at EYLEA.com.

Manufactured by: Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 777 Old Saw Mill River Road Tarrytown, NY 10591 EYLEA is a registered trademark of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. © 2020, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. All rights reserved. Issue Date: November 2020 Initial U.S. Approval: 2011 based on the August 2019 EYLEA® (aflibercept) injection full Prescribing information.

11/2020 EYL.20.06.0003

YO UR B ODY / l i f e + H e a lt h

other functions. When you have hypothyroidism, it doesn’t produce enough of those hormones, which can make you sensitive to cold. “It’s like turning down the thermostat, and the body’s metabolism kind of slows down,” explains Gary LeRoy, M.D., past president of the American Academy of Family Physicians. If you also have dry skin, weight gain, hair loss, constipation or fatigue, ask your doctor to check your thyroid. They may prescribe a medication to regulate your levels.

What you can do:

Diabetes Feeling cold and tired and having to pee a lot might be signs of diabetes. “It can aﬀect your kidneys, your circulatory system and things along those lines,” says Dr. Bidey. Kidney problems may trigger anemia, and diabetes can cause nerve damage, giving you cold feet. Get your blood sugar tested regularly if you have risk factors such as being overweight or a family history.

What you can do:

Heart disease

ALWAYS COLD?

Here’s why… The weather is warm, but you’re in a cardigan. Here are experts’ takes on what may be going on and how to deal.

Getty Images.

by ER ICA SWEEN EY

As usual, no one else is cold but for some reason you need to turn up the thermostat or move away from the AC vent in a restaurant. Feeling frigid occasionally (or when it’s actually cold out) is nothing to worry about, says Peter Bidey, D.O., vice chair for the department of family medicine at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. And there are some simple explanations (such as being dehydrated or sleep-deprived) for your internal thermostat’s being out of whack. But if you can never really get warm or you have other symptoms, it may be worth getting yourself looked at. It could be…

Peripheral artery disease causes plaque to build up in arteries, making you “a little more prone to a decrease in blood flow to certain areas,” Dr. Bidey says, which leaves you chilly and with numbness or tingling in your hands, feet or legs. High cholesterol and other conditions that clog arteries can have the same effect. Beta-blockers, used to treat high blood pressure, can also affect body temperature. If you also have muscle pain in your limbs, get checked out. You may be prescribed medication or asked to make lifestyle changes such as exercising more. What you can do:

You’re very lean

A NUTRIENT deficiency Lack of iron, vitamin B12 or B9 or other nutrients can lead to anemia, says Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. When you have anemia, your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to deliver oxygen to your organs, and that can make you feel cold, especially in your extremities. Women are at higher risk (particularly those who are pregnant), but vegetarians and people over 65 are prone as well, says Sassos. Ask your doctor for a complete blood count panel, Sassos suggests. They may recommend vitamin or mineral supplements or dietary changes.

What you can do:

An Underactive thyroid This tiny gland releases thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism, temperature and JUNE 2022 G H

Too little body fat, Dr. Bidey explains, means “you’re going to be more responsive to cold.” While some people are naturally lean, health conditions such as eating disorders, digestive or metabolic problems and severe stress and anxiety can cause weight and body fat loss. See a doctor if you are colder than usual and dropped weight recently.

What you can do:

You’re getting older “When we get older, things slow down, and core body temperature tends to slowly drop,” says Dr. LeRoy. Aging also increases the risk of developing chronic conditions that can restrict blood ﬂow and make you colder. Regular exercise can improve circulation of blood and slow many of the eﬀects of aging, says Dr. LeRoy. In the moment, moving (say, dancing to a song you love) can warm you up. But if that and a mug of hot tea don’t do the trick, it’s time to nudge up the thermostat.

What you can do:

Why We’re Saying

When it comes to your health and happiness, Good Housekeeping is committed to providing the most relevant and reliable information. The more we’ve reported on body mass index, a widely used but ﬂawed measure of health, the more we’ve grown to see that there are more accurate and less stigmatizing indications of overall health to include in our coverage. To understand — and to learn what these are — read on. by KA I TLYN PI RIE

Illustration: Perryn Ford.

Bye to BMI

WELLNESS NEWS / l i f e + H e a lt h

It’s all but impossible to see a doctor without hopping on the scale and being told your body mass index (BMI), a number calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. The concept originated in the 1800s as a way to categorize the population by weight, says Amy Lee, M.D., an internal medicine physician and weight specialist in Southern California. People are “in a range of ‘underweight,’ ‘normal,’ ‘overweight’ or ‘obese,’ ” she says. As benign as that may sound, many experts are realizing that there are real problems with the measurement and that the way it is applied can do more harm than good. The issue is complex, but here are just a few reasons:

“Overweight” is not a synonym for “unhealthy.” While higher BMI is correlated with certain conditions on a population level, there is little evidence that higher weights cause these in individuals. Yet with so much emphasis in our culture on thinness and BMI, things can get oversimpliﬁed. In some cases, people with high BMIs are denied treatments (such as IVF or surgeries), or weight loss is presented as a cureall. Consider a patient with knee pain: “If the person is fat, the doctor may diagnose weight as the problem, prescribe weight loss as the treatment and send them on their way without further diagnostic tests or treatments,” says Paula Brochu, Ph.D., an associate professor in the College of Psychology at Nova Southeastern University who studies weight stigma. “But if the person is not fat, they are much more likely to receive scans and treatment for the knee pain at the time of the complaint.” Not only might the doctor miss a problem that would have been visible on an X-ray or other imaging, but being mistreated can discourage bigger people from seeking medical care, possibly worsening health issues. In truth, you can be heavy and healthy — or thin and less so. “One large study examined people’s cardiometabolic health across the BMI spectrum and found that nearly half of ‘overweight’ people and nearly one-third of ‘obese’ people were metabolically healthy,” says Brochu. Almost a third of “normal”-weight people were not. “Researchers estimated that nearly 75 million adults in the U.S. have their health misclassiﬁed on the basis of BMI,” she says.

Race and ethnicity matter. While BMI is calculated the same way for everyone, research shows the signiﬁcance of

the number to be different for different groups. “For the Indian population, we know their chances of [issues associated with] metabolic syndromes like diabetes and heart disease go up at a BMI of 27,” says Saniea Majid, M.D., F.A.C.S., FASMBS, a board-certified obesity specialist in Livingston, NJ. That’s lower than the BMI of 30 associated with the same issues in white people. The number is even lower for people of Taiwanese descent, adds Dr. Majid. So someone who thinks they’re in the clear with a BMI under 30 may actually be at serious risk. Other research has shown that the BMI associated with living longest is around 23 to 25 for white people but 23 to 30 for Black people — i.e., a higher BMI could be beneficial for Black people. While medical weight stigma and inadequate care are bad for all, misclassifying Black people as “overweight” may add to an already wide racial health disparity.

BMI doesn’t take body shape or composition into account. As a result, muscular people are often classiﬁed as “overweight,” says Dr. Lee, leading to stigma and denial of treatments. BMI calculations also don’t factor in where you carry your weight. Studies show that a higher waistto-hip ratio is more closely linked to heart attack risk than BMI, whereas having bigger hips does not seem to pose a similar risk.

A higher BMI does not mean higher mortality. “Many people are surprised to learn that those who are ‘overweight’ have lower mortality risk than ‘normal’-weight people and that people who are ‘obese’ have the same mortality risk as ‘normal’-weight people,” says Brochu. JUNE 2022 G H

Why is BMI still used? The data point is easy to calculate and cheap to measure, and it’s the basis of decades of health research. It is also entrenched in our health care system. For example, BMI is baked into the coding system that doctors use to let insurance companies know what they’re billing for. Also, many doctors, including Dr. Majid, ﬁnd it a helpful screening tool when used in conjunction with other measures. These include blood pressure, pulse, cholesterol, fasting sugars, fatty liver disease and body composition as well as “a conversation based on a patient’s ethnicity, family history, lifestyle, age, activity level and whether someone is perimenopausal,” Dr. Majid says. Other medical doctors, however, as well as psychologists such as Brochu, feel that use of the BMI leads to too much emphasis on weight in medical settings and fuels the mistaken belief that thinness equals health. “It focuses on weight loss as a health outcome, and by and large weight loss is advocated at any cost, which often leads to harm,” Brochu explains. “A focus on health rather than weight provides more support to patients of all sizes.”

OUR COMMITMENT Good Housekeeping will avoid relying on BMI as a marker of health in our reporting, and if we determine that we must mention it, we will point out its limitations. How much emphasis you give to this measurement, or to body weight at all, is between you and your provider. If you decide to de-emphasize weight as a measure of your own health or happiness, you can ask your provider to do the other tests noted here (such as blood pressure, pulse and cholesterol) without having you step on a scale. “People have the right not to be weighed and not to consent to discussing their weight,” Brochu says. If you would rather not be weighed but aren’t sure how to say so, visit more-love.org for helpful phrases to use as well as small cards you can give to providers to express your preference.

inside the

GH Nutrition Lab

NUTRITION LAB

STEFANI SASSOS, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N., DEPUTY DIRECTOR @stefanisassos

GH’s own registered dietitian serves up expert know-how to help you make smart decisions for a nutritious diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Tasty Tropical Fruits We love you, oranges! Thanks for being there, bananas. But now it’s time to up your produce intake with these delicious, vibrant, vitamin-rich beauties — go for a minimum of ﬁve servings of fruits and veggies every day.

Jackfruit

Star Fruit

Dragon Fruit

Papaya

This massive fruit (it can weigh up to 100 lbs!) is packed with vitamins C and B2 as well as copper, magnesium and potassium. WHAT IT’S LIKE: Before it’s ripe, jackfruit is ultra-mild and can be shredded to mimic the texture of pulled pork, so it’s great when cooked with spices and seasonings (think tacos!), and you can ﬁnd it in ready-tocook pouches. Ripe, it tastes like a blend of pineapple and banana. It’s best eaten or thrown into a smoothie a couple of days after it starts to smell sweet— it should also have a little give when pressed. You can store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Also known as carambola, this fun fruit was historically used only as a decoration. But it’s tasty and full of vitamin C and ﬁber. WHAT IT’S LIKE: Mildly sweet and a touch tart — think crisp and refreshing plum. When buying, keep an eye out for a ﬁrm and shiny yellow star fruit without a lot of brown. You can store it at room temp until you smell its fruity aroma, then refrigerate it for up to a week. Give it a good rinse (the skin is edible!), then slice it crosswise. Add it to a fruit salad, blend it into a drink or toss it into a stir-fry. (Note: Star fruit interacts with certain meds, so check with your doctor.)

Pitaya, as it’s also called, is a member of the cactus family. It’s rich in vitamin C, lycopene and other antioxidants, making it a great anti-inflammatory choice. WHAT IT’S LIKE: Dragon fruit boasts delicate acidity and a melon-like texture. Its skin can be yellow or pink, and its flesh is white (slightly sweeter) or magenta and full of tiny edible seeds. Give it a light squeeze to make sure it’s a little soft, and pick one with bright, even skin. If it’s hard, give it a few days on a counter to ripen. I like to slice it lengthwise and scoop the flesh with a spoon before adding it to my cereal or a fruit salad.

With a variety of antioxidants, including vitamins A, C and E, papaya also contains an enzyme called papain that helps break down proteins into smaller fragments, making it a great meat tenderizer (try adding papaya to your next meat marinade!). WHAT IT’S LIKE: Slightly sweet but not overpowering, it is awesome in salsa. Know that the fruit turns from green to yellow as it ripens — a ripe papaya should be a bit soft and have an almost buttery melt-in-yourmouth texture. Bonus: The seeds are entirely edible. Just be aware that papaya interacts with certain meds, including warfarin, so consult your doctor.

G H JUNE 2022

Multiple fruits, star fruit and dragon fruit: Getty Images. Jackfruit and papaya: Adobe Stock.

For recipes that use these fun ﬁnds, turn to page 117.

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GH Report From the Exper ts at the Good Housekeeping Institute

2022

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MEET THE GH EXPERTS

X L E X I E SAC H S EXECUTIVE TEXTILES DIRECTOR

X EMMA SEYMOUR SENIOR TEXTILES P R O D U C T A N A LY S T

how to build your

COZIEST BED EVER

Our Textiles pros evaluated hundreds of sleep products in the GH Lab and sent them to more than 500 home testers to get real-world feedback. These dreamy winners — including top-tested sheets, pillows, mattresses and more — will have you counting down the minutes till bedtime.

X M O N I Q U E VA L E R I S SENIOR HOME EDITOR

Mike Garten. Prop styling: Alex Mata.

X G R AC E W U TEXTILES PRODUCT R E V I E W S A N A LY S T

CLEANING TIP NO. 5

unclog faucets and sprayers

Remove deposits with a small, stiﬀ brush dipped in white vinegar.

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MATTRESSES GH CLEANING LAB RECOMMENDS

3 Tools for a Cleaner Mattress IMPRESSIVE VALUE

SUPPORTIVE FIRM

CUSHIONING SOFT

Allswell delivers a premium feel at a price under $1,000. Its hybrid model combines the cradling comfort of memory foam with the resiliency of coils, and it ships quickly (compressed in a box for you to set up). LAB results This model is a consistent favorite among our testers, who rave that it’s both supportive and plush. One user told us it “feels like a fancy hotel bed,” while another said, “I love that it arrived in a box; it made setup much simpler!”

Ideal for those who prefer a solid surface, Beautyrest’s bed has unique double coils to increase support. Still, it doesn’t feel too hard; there are layers of foam on top. The price includes in-home setup and old-mattress removal. LAB results Testers who liked a ﬁrm feel gave it high ratings across the board, from comfort to overall satisfaction. One noted that it helped her stay cool and added, “I like how it returns to its original shape rather quickly.”

This plush mattress-in-a-box from Puﬀy is designed with several layers of pressure-relieving foam over coils that adapt to your shape, making it suitable for side sleepers and anyone who suﬀers from back pain. LAB results Users noticed how it conformed to their bodies — and several woke up without their usual aches and pains. One tester said, “I feel like I’m sleeping on a cloud, but I still feel supported.” And despite its softness, it didn’t sink in or sag.

ALLSWELL LUXE HYBRID, $675 FOR QUEEN, ALLSWELLHOME.COM

BEAUTYREST HARMONY LUX HYBRID MATTRESS, $1,799 FOR QUEEN, BEAUTYREST.COM

Carpet cleaner Tackle stains and odors with an enzyme product formulated to remove pet messes. Spray the stain lightly and dab with a clean cloth. Work from the outside in to prevent spreading. Rinse well with a damp cloth. Air-dry.

PUFFY LUX HYBRID, $1,499 FOR QUEEN, PUFFY.COM

Garment steamer

CUTTING-EDGE CUSTOMIZATION

INTELLIGENT ADJUSTABLE

ECONOMICAL ORGANIC

Innovative and certified organic, this Naturepedic bed has interchangeable latex and coil layers in five firmness options you can swap out over time. The modular design arrives in multiple boxes for assembly. LAB results Our testers loved the personalization and motion isolation it offered because of the separate fills on each side. Also, one told us, “I love that it’s organic and I’m not sleeping on a bed of chemicals.”

Sleep Number’s air chambers let you set your own ﬁrmness level, and sensors make sure it stays at the perfect ﬁrmness all night. It also has built-in tracking capabilities to give you feedback on your sleep. LAB results Hundreds of Sleep Number owners told us the comfort was beyond compare. They also noted that it felt like a true bed: “I have never felt like I am sleeping on air,” one user told us.

Most organic mattresses cost several thousand dollars, but this model from Avocado is a fraction of that price. It uses certiﬁed organic materials like latex, cotton and wool with recycled aluminum coils for a ﬁrmer feel. LAB results It’s a new introduction, but testers gave it immediate praise. One noted, “There’s a good amount of bounce and no sinking” and also described having improved sleep quality and less back pain.

NATUREPEDIC EOS CLASSIC ORGANIC MATTRESS, $3,199 FOR QUEEN, NATUREPEDIC.COM

SLEEP NUMBER 360 P6 SMART BED, $3,099 FOR QUEEN, SLEEPNUMBER.COM

AVOCADO ECO ORGANIC MATTRESS, $999 FOR QUEEN, AVOCADOGREENMATTRESS.COM

G H JUNE 2022

To kill allergy-triggering dust mites, hold the steamer nozzle close to the mattress. Let the steam penetrate the fabric to kill mites lurking near the surface. Vacuum the mattress afterward to remove them.

Vacuum attachments Using the upholstery tool or the mini brush attachment if your model has one, press ﬁrmly on the mattress fabric to draw out dust and allergens. Use the crevice tool on stitching and edges.

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supreme

MATTRESS TOPPERS FIRM FIX A mattress topper is the easiest way to spruce up your bed. It can add softness if your mattress is too hard or ﬁrmness if you need more support.

SECURE PROTECTOR This My Green Mattress cover prevents spills, dust and other allergens from settling into your bed, and it’s certiﬁed organic. It uses cotton throughout, with a thin layer of waterproof material to block moisture. LAB results It was easy to put on the bed in our tests, and reviewers said it was undetectable when they lay on it. “No noise, and no sweaty feeling like you’re lying on a piece of plastic,” according to a tester. MY GREEN MATTRESS ORGANIC COTTON PROTECTOR, $119 FOR QUEEN, MYGREENMATTRESS.COM

Life Created; designed by Living With Lolo.

COOLING PAD Add soft comfort and cooling capabilities to your bed with Slumber Cloud’s lightweight down-alternative layer. It uses phase-change materials to help regulate body temperature throughout the night. LAB results Our pros were impressed by the technology that stores and releases body heat, while a tester commented, “It really does help with temperature, and it’s held up well too.” SLUMBER CLOUD PERFORMANCE MATTRESS PAD, $209 FOR QUEEN, SLUMBERCLOUD.COM

PRESSURE-RELIEVING FOAM

PLUSH PILLOWTOP

STURDY LATEX

Instantly upgrade your bed with Nolah’s cushioning layer. It takes weight oﬀ shoulders and hips, and bands keep it secure on your mattress.

Standard Textile Home’s featherbed adds cloud-like softness, and its construction prevents ﬁll shifting.

Choose from two heights and three ﬁrmness levels from Turmerry to soften or ﬁrm up your existing bed.

STANDARD TEXTILE HOME DOWN FEATHERBED, $300 FOR QUEEN, STANDARDTEXTILEHOME.COM

TURMERRY ORGANIC LATEX MATTRESS TOPPER, FROM $189 FOR QUEEN, TURMERRY.COM

NOLAH MATTRESS TOPPER, $349 FOR QUEEN, NOLAH.COM

JUNE 2022 G H

“This is Halloween” Holiday Tree Collection ➤

s ll! d n Ta a Steet F Shipment Three

“Cemetery Hill Moon” Tree Topper and FREE “Purple Nightshade” Tree Skirt

Buildings and Tree Light Up!

An illuminated display from Hawthorne Village— This impressive midnightblack “Dark of the Moon” tree is expertly crafted and stands three feet tall! 50 purple lights adorn the tree’s branches, while the “Cemetery Moon” Tree Topper adds an iconic touch to this eerie picture.

Shipment Two ➤ 3 feet Pre-lit “The Dark of the Moon” Holiday Tree

Shipment One “Jack’s House and Sally” ➤

Hand-crafted ornaments rest among the midnight-black branches

FREE “Purple Nightshade” Tree Skirt—an impressive 2 feet in diameter!

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PILLOWS WASH TOGETHER Launder two machinewashable pillows at the same time (instead of washing them individually) to keep the machine balanced. Tumble dry on low heat.

ERGONOMIC SIDE SLEEPER Breaking away from a typical pillow shape, Pillow Cube fills the gap between the neck and the shoulders to offer side sleepers optimal alignment. It comes with a cool-to-the-touch cover and is available in three heights to match your body frame. LAB results Side sleepers were blown away by its aligning capabilities. “It doesn’t taper off, so my neck is totally supported,” explained one. Also, the foam fill kept its shape in Lab tests. PILLOW CUBE ICE CUBE COOLING PILLOW PRO, $160, PILLOWCUBE.COM

FIRST-RATE FOAM

SUPERB VALUE SET

Riley uses responsibly sourced down in its incredibly fluffy and luxe pillow. It has a soft, comfy cover and comes in two firmness levels for multiple positions: Plush is for back and stomach sleepers, while firm is for side sleepers. LAB results Testers were impressed by how it kept its shape and remained soft after use. “I didn’t realize pillows could be so nice,” raved one. It also proved durable in Lab tests and held up to repeated launderings.

This Tuft & Needle pillow is designed to conform to your head regardless of sleep position. Its solid foam oﬀers good support, yet it still feels squishy—not hard—for exceptional comfort. LAB results It aced our shaperetention tests, and its cover washed well without shrinkage. All testers gave it perfect comfort scores and said it was better than other pillows they’d used. Several described it as “a great balance between ﬁrm and soft.”

Home Depot’s StyleWell pair cost less than other single pillows, yet don’t skimp on quality. They have cotton covers with a medium-density down-alternative ﬁll to suit most sleep positions. LAB results A top performer in Lab tests, these laundered well and bounced back into shape after pressure was applied. Testers liked how they felt lightweight, and one noted allergy relief: “I breathe better and am less congested with this pillow.”

RILEY WHITE DOWN PILLOW, FROM $140, RILEYHOME.COM

TUFT & NEEDLE ORIGINAL FOAM PILLOW, FROM $85, TUFTANDNEEDLE.COM

STYLEWELL EVERY POSITION DOWN ALTERNATIVE PILLOW SET, FROM $72, HOMEDEPOT.COM

G H JUNE 2022

HOTEL-QUALITY HYBRID FluffCo uses a two-layer design with down on the outer layer for softness and feathers in the core for support. The responsibly sourced fill is available in both soft and firm options. LAB results Users enjoyed its fluffiness, and one told us, “Night after night it maintained the same comfort level as the first day I slept on it.” It didn’t shrink after washing, and our pros liked how nicely it fit inside a pillowcase. FLUFFCO DOWN & FEATHER PILLOW, FROM $75, FLUFF.CO

Life Created; designed by Living With Lolo.

DELUXE DOWN

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SHEETS HOW TO

Wash Your Sheets and Help Them Last Longer SOFTEST SATEEN

CRISP & COOL PERCALE

BUTTERY BUDGET BUY

Designed for a lived-in look and feel, these Garnet Hill sheets combine organic cotton with a soft sateen weave and a casual matte ﬁnish. Pieces are sold separately so you can mix and match colors and build your perfect set. LAB results A tester favorite, they earned perfect softness and comfort scores. One said, “These sheets have a broken-in feel that seemed to get better every day.” They barely shrank in the wash.

Light, airy and breathable, Crane & Canopy’s basic yet luxurious set uses long-staple cotton for a soft, durable fabric. It has a bright white color that looks clean and fresh and a deep-pocketed ﬁtted sheet to ﬁt tall mattresses. LAB results The fabric didn’t pill in Lab tests. Plus, users agreed that these felt cool and were better than their past sheets. “They feel far softer and smoother while having a crisp design,” said one.

GARNET HILL RELAXED ORGANIC COTTON SATEEN SHEETS, $184 FOR QUEEN 4-PIECE SET, GARNETHILL.COM

CRANE & CANOPY BRIGHT WHITE 400-TC PERCALE COTTON SET, $280 FOR QUEEN, CRANEANDCANOPY.COM

Don’t be fooled by the price: This best-selling set from Mellanni is a total steal that delivers incredible coziness thanks to brushed polyester microﬁber fabric. It’s available in 15 sizes and 42 colors to match any bedroom. LAB results Dozens of testers gave it top softness scores and described the fabric as “buttery,” “luxurious” and “smooth.” Because it’s a synthetic material, it proved shrink- and pill-resistant in Lab durability tests.

Wash linens weekly. Even if they don’t look dirty, sheets accumulate dust, allergens and skin cells — not to mention sweat and germs. Once-aweek laundering is ideal to keep them fresh. Every other week is OK too, but try not to wait longer.

MELLANNI 1800 COLLECTION SHEET SET, FROM $30 FOR QUEEN, AMAZON.COM

Limit fabric softener.

Garnet Hill: Mike Garten; styled by Alex Mata.

While it’s all right to use, too much creates a buildup on the fabric that can affect its breathability. Make sure to measure and follow the amount recommended on the label, and skip it every three to four wash cycles.

SNUG & STRETCHY KNIT

SILKY SMOOTH SET

LUXURIOUS LINEN

Most sheets are woven, but this Calvin Klein set is made of jersey fabric that feels like a T-shirt. It’s a blend of cotton and modal, a supersoft rayon ﬁber often used in underwear and pajamas. LAB results Our reviewers liked the softness and stretch for easy bed-making. One even said, “I fall asleep faster with these.” Jersey sheets aren’t as durable as others, but this set had excellent wrinkle resistance in our tests.

West Elm’s sleek set is made entirely of Tencel, a sustainable fiber that’s responsibly processed using wood pulp. It’s lightweight and moisture-wicking, and it has a cooling feel that’s ideal for hot sleepers and warm climates. LAB results The fabric was strong and pill-resistant in our tests, and our panel noticed how cool it kept them through the night. They enjoyed its comfiness, with one noting, “It’s very soft, but not so soft as to slip off my bed.”

This mix-and-match set from Piglet in Bed includes a duvet cover, sheets and pillowcases, each available in 15 prints and colors. The website makes it easy to build your own bundle, and the linen is prewashed for softness. LAB results Testers liked the feel, but especially loved the textured appearance. “The fabric looked amazing on my bed,” raved one. Also, they washed well and resisted pilling in our Lab tests.

CALVIN KLEIN MODERN COTTON HARRISON SHEETS, $175 FOR QUEEN 4-PIECE SET, MACYS.COM

WEST ELM SILKY TENCEL SHEET SET, $175 FOR QUEEN, WESTELM.COM

PIGLET IN BED LINEN BEDTIME BUNDLE, FROM $443 FOR QUEEN, PIGLETINBED.COM

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Avoid mixed loads. It may be tempting to wash towels and sheets together, but towels are heavy and take a long time to dry, so sheets get overdried, which may cause them to shrink and wear faster. If you must mix, add only lightweight fabrics to the load.

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blissful

BLANKETS

CRISP LINEN COVERLET

PLUSH TUFTED BEDSPREAD

TEXTURED COTTON QUILT

This splurge-worthy pick from Linoto is chic yet functional, with a luxury linen cover and soft cotton ﬁlling.

Pottery Barn uses a fluffy downalternative fill in an ultrasoft Tencel cover that looks and feels amazing.

The hand-stitched design from Garnet Hill creates a stunning appearance. It’s light and made entirely of cotton.

LINOTO LINEN COVERLET, FROM $529 FOR QUEEN, LINOTO.COM

POTTERY BARN TENCEL TUFTED QUILT, $249 FOR QUEEN, POTTERYBARN.COM

GARNET HILL DREAM QUILT, $179 FOR QUEEN, GARNETHILL.COM

This layer from Authenticity50 has a stylish herringbone weave and a medium weight that makes it versatile for use as a cover on your bed or a throw on your sofa. It’s 100% cotton and entirely made in the U.S. LAB results Our pros appreciated the quality construction, and testers all loved the colors and the pattern. One said, “It has a nice weight to it. It’s not too light and not too heavy.” AUTHENTICITY50 HERITAGE BLANKET, $169 FOR QUEEN, AUTHENTICITY50.COM

FLUFFY FLEECE Bedsure’s blanket costs less than $20, yet feels delightfully soft and substantial. Synthetic microﬁber keeps the price low, but it has a thick velvetlike feel that’s not too heavy. Plus, there are four sizes and 26 colors to pick from. LAB results Testers gave it perfect comfort scores and didn’t include a single complaint in their reviews. One noted, “It is a thin blanket, but it kept me very warm.” It looked as good as new after washing too. BEDSURE FLANNEL FLEECE BLANKET, FROM $15, AMAZON.COM

CLEANING TIP NO. 6

zap allergens

Steam, then vacuum, pillows and plush toys to remove dust, pollen and germs.

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COMFORTERS 3 STEPS TO

Keep Your Comforter Clean and Fluffy IRRESISTIBLE DOWN The Company Store’s cover is incredibly indulgent, with genuine down fill in a smooth cotton cover that’s available in five colors. Its down is responsibly sourced, and it comes in three warmth levels. LAB results Our experts were impressed by the quality construction, and testers loved how comfortable it felt to sleep under. They also said it held up exceptionally well over time: “The fill doesn’t shift or poke out,” noted one. THE COMPANY STORE ALBERTA DOWN COMFORTER, FROM $409 FOR QUEEN, HOMEDEPOT.COM

UPSCALE DOWN ALTERNATIVE

LEADING LIGHTWEIGHT LAYER

The microfiber fill in this Crane & Canopy comforter is super-fluffy and comes in three weights to match your warmth preference. Its cover uses soft long-staple cotton. LAB results Testers loved the warmth and the smooth feel, with one pointing out, “It’s light enough that it doesn’t make me sweat, but I still feel warm.” Lab analysts appreciated the baffle-box construction, which keeps the fill evenly distributed.

This popular style from Buffy is made of a silky Tencel fabric and a fluffy down-alternative fill that’s recycled from plastic water bottles. It’s lightweight yet not too thin, ideal for hot sleepers and warmer months. LAB results A favorite among both Lab experts and testers, it earned praise for its smooth cover that doesn’t crinkle with movement. One tester noted, “I didn’t overheat, but it still felt substantial,” and several said they used it year-round.

CRANE & CANOPY ULTIMATE LUXE DOWN ALTERNATIVE COMFORTER, FROM $209 FOR QUEEN, CRANEANDCANOPY.COM

Check the label. Many comforters (including all these winners) are machine-washable for at-home care. Before you buy one, be sure it doesn’t need to be drycleaned or washed in a commercial-size washer. Avoid purchasing one labeled “spot-clean only.”

BUFFY CLOUD COMFORTER, $169 FOR QUEEN, BUFFY.CO

Garnet Hill (opposite page): Mike Garten; styled by Alex Mata.

Use a duvet cover.

INGENIOUS BLEND INSERT

LUSH LINEN COVER

PRETTY PRINT COVER

With a unique mix of down and wool in its ﬁll, this Birch duvet is both sustainable and responsibly sourced. The wool component helps regulate body temperature, and the outer cover is 100% cotton. LAB results It earned perfect scores for comfort, temperature and overall satisfaction, with testers saying they were surprised at how it never got too hot: “The perfect weight,” raved one. They also appreciated how easy it was to launder.

Cultiver combines the airy and luxurious texture of linen with a prewashing process to enhance the softness. The set is available in 18 colors and includes a duvet cover and two shams. You can request a swatch to feel the fabric before you buy. LAB results This set stood out for both comfort and appearance; our panel praised it with comments like “The texture feels smooth and cooling, and I love the relaxed linen look.” Plus, the fabric hardly shrank in our Lab’s wash tests.

Unlike most solid-color duvet covers, Mildly oﬀers a ton of ﬂoral, abstract and modern designs to match any style preference. Available as a three-piece set with matching shams, it’s 100% cotton sateen and a great value for under $100. LAB results Bedding pros loved the time-saving zipper that stayed hidden underneath. Its fabric held up to pilling tests, and users liked the soft feel. One said, “The material was smooth, the colors were vibrant and the design was beautiful.”

BIRCH NATURAL DOWN DUVET INSERT, $349 FOR QUEEN, BIRCHLIVING.COM

CULTIVER LINEN DUVET COVER SET, $325 FOR QUEEN, CULTIVER.COM

MILDLY ABLE DUVET COVER, $89 FOR QUEEN, AMAZON.COM

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While some people prefer to use a comforter alone instead of tying on another layer, a protector or duvet cover will keep out spills and dirt, and it’s easier to wash just the cover on a regular basis. Aim to launder the insert twice a year.

Add dryer balls. These keep the fill fluffy and prevent clumping while it dries. You should also pause the dryer cycle a few times to shake and fluff it out yourself. If it’s not fully dry, use low heat and repeat the cycle or used the timed cycle.

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ultimate

ACCESSORIES 2022 bedding awards Scan here to shop our winners!

HUGGABLE BODY PILLOW This oversize pillow from Pluto keeps your body aligned, and it gives the calming comfort of a hug—it’s like a stuffed animal for grown-ups. The fill is a cushy down alternative, and the cover has a cool-to-the-touch feel. LAB results Our testers liked the extended length that fit between their knees (even for those who were taller). They said it felt cool, and one noted, “I like its just-right softness, yet it is supportive and retains its shape.” PLUTO PUFF, $95, PLUTOPILLOW.COM

POPULAR PAJAMAS SOOTHING KNIT BLANKET Nuzzie offers the relaxing benefit of a weighted blanket in a trendy knit. It comes in eight colors and four sizes to fit any bed. LAB results Users liked layering it over their regular covers and said it fit well on their beds. It also applied even pressure.

SLEEKEST SILK SET

GLOSSY SATIN PILLOWCASE

The Brooklinen pillowcase and sleep mask use top-quality silk and can help keep skin and hair smooth.

Bedsure’s aﬀordable pillow cover uses synthetic satin fabric to prevent creases while you sleep.

NUZZIE KNIT WEIGHTED BLANKET, $269 FOR QUEEN, SHOPNUZZIE.COM

BROOKLINEN MULBERRY SILK BUNDLE, FROM $79, BROOKLINEN.COM

BEDSURE SATIN PILLOWCASES, FROM $9 FOR TWO, AMAZON.COM

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Eberjey’s sleepwear is a classic silhouette with Tencel modal fabric that feels light, soft and drapey. It comes in a wide range of colors and sizes XS to XXL. LAB results The fabric held up to laundering, and testers liked its versatility for year-round use. “I didn’t overheat like I do with other pajamas,” said one. EBERJEY GISELE LONG PJ SET, $128, EBERJEY.COM

M E A L PR E PP I NG

W I L L CH A NG E YOUR L I FE!

Includes: 125+ make-ahead recipes that will save you time and money. A primer of all the basics like big-batch cooking and freeze-ahead meals. A 28-day meal plan with prepping and cooking tips. Gluten-free, keto & vegan options!

Available wherever books are sold or goodhousekeeping.com/mealprepbook

Seal Spotlight

CLEANING ALL-STARS (No Scrubbing Required!) Make your cleaning routine easier with these game-changing helpers — all tested and approved by GH Lab experts!

*Applicable if product proves defective within two years of purchase. Replacement at GH’s discretion; cash refund limited to lesser of the amount of the purchase price or $2,000. Certain other limitations apply. Go to ghseal.com for details.

SEAL PROMISE All GH Seal products are rigorously assessed by the GH Labs. We stand behind them with our exclusive refund-or-replacement limited warranty.*

’ROUND-THE-CLOCK CLEANER

DO-IT-ALL DRYER SHEETS

LEATHER LIFESAVER

Bacteria can be reintroduced to a surface as soon as it’s touched, even right after you’ve cleaned it. Used as directed, Microban’s 24 Hour Multi-Purpose Cleaner spray keeps killing bacteria for up to 24 hours, protecting sealed countertops, appliance handles, faucet levers and other hard surfaces from bacteria. Spray it in the kitchen, the bathroom and all your home’s busy spots to help stop the spread of bacteria and keep surfaces sanitized longer.

Downy’s WrinkleGuard Mega Sheets pull the plug on static like traditional dryer sheets, but at twice the size, they do a much better job of leaving your clothing and linens soft, especially in extra-large loads. In addition, they contain more ingredients to help relax and realign fibers for fewer wrinkles and less ironing. Toss in a sheet before you start the drying cycle, and items will emerge soft and smooth. Any wrinkles you may see can usually be smoothed by hand, meaning your ironing board stays behind closed doors.

Dirty hands, spilled drinks, drying sunrays and other harsh elements all put leather sofas, chairs, ottomans and even bags, boots and outerwear through some serious wear and tear. After cleaning, protect your leather pieces with Furniture Clinic Leather Protection Cream. It imparts a shield that makes maintenance and cleaning much easier. Get it as a stand-alone product or as part of a kit that includes a cleaner and special applicators to remove grime, help repel stains and make leather easier to clean.

LAB RESULTS During Lab tests, our experts in the GH Cleaning Lab washed cotton sheets, pillowcases, pants and dress shirts and tumble-dried them with Downy WrinkleGuard Mega Dryer Sheets. All were soft and ready to use out of the dryer or with just a light smoothing or touch-up.

LAB RESULTS Our cleaning pros loved how this protector left leather smooth and supple. It was easy to apply and wipe oﬀ and didn’t damage or change the look of colored leather. Users who are more accident-prone can rest easy knowing that Furniture Clinic Leather Protection Cream helps repel liquids and dirt. Bonus: It even made ink marks easier to remove.

LAB RESULTS The GH Cleaning Lab experts found that Microban 24 Hour Multi-Purpose Cleaner is an all-around great grime remover that works quickly and is safe for most surfaces, with the added beneﬁt of long-lasting bacteria protection. It’s also available as a bathroom cleaner and a sanitizing spray to keep even more areas of your home sanitized and protected. MICROBAN 24 HOUR MULTI-PURPOSE CLEANER, CITRUS SCENT, $4 FOR 24 OZ, MICROBAN24.COM

DOWNY WRINKLEGUARD MEGA DRYER SHEETS, $5.50 FOR 60, DOWNY.COM

FURNITURE CLINIC LEATHER PROTECTION CREAM, $12 FOR 8.5 FL OZ , FURNITURECLINIC.COM

GET DISHES CLEAN WITH ONE WASH

CAROLYN FORTé GH HOME CARE LAB EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR @fortecarolyn

CLEANING LAB

It’s irritating to pull a glass or a knife out of the dishwasher and see specks all over something that was supposed to be sparkling clean. Avoid a second wash by following our expert advice on how to prevent spotty results. • Load dishes properly to ensure that water and grime drain oﬀ completely. • Use the right amount of detergent. You might need more in hard-water areas. • Select the extra-dry option on your machine to boost the drying for more spot-free results. • Use a rinse aid, even if your detergent already has one in its formula. This is more important than ever in energy-saving machines to help everything in the load emerge clean and dry.

JUNE 2022 G H

Cook+Savor From the Experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute

Creamy Cannoli Dip Transform the decadent Italian treat into a party-ready confection: Simply blend ricotta and mascarpone cheeses with a touch of sugar, lemon zest and vanilla, then fold in chocolate chips. Serve with plenty of waffle cookies and fruit for delicious dunking! Recipe, p. 118

Mike Garten. Food styling: Christine Albano. Prop styling: Alex Mata.

Sw e e t Surprise Fill ice cream cones with cannoli dip before scooping on your favorite ﬂavors.

CLEANING TIP NO. 7

Clean your dishwasher’s filter

Do it monthly to prevent spots and odors.

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Ready, Set,

Summer! We’re kicking off the season with easy eats for picnics in the park, backyard hangouts and more — plus, no-cook dinners and excuses to ﬁre up the grill.

Photographs by MI KE GARTE N

Prop styling by AL E X M ATA

Food styling by S IM O N A N DR EWS

V E G E TA R I A N FAV E

Roasted Eggplant VEGGIE BURGER p. 116

CLEANING TIP NO. 8

create a fresh scent

Toss dried herbs into your vacuum’s dust cup before cleaning.

Pa r t y t i m e ! Keep extra citrus slices and watermelon wedges near the margarita pitcher so guests can add a fruity garnish to their drinks. Looking for a nonalcoholic option? Set out a few bottles of sparkling water to make a spritz.

CROWD -PLEASER

BIG-BATCH

Watermelon Margaritas p. 114

What Are Shishitos? These peppers don’t bring as much heat as serranos, jalapeños or ghost peppers. In fact, many are slightly sweet, but watch out: Just when you think they’re all mild, you’ll get a hot one!

A I R F R Y E R FAV E

Garlicky Wings & SHISHITO PEPPERS p. 113

A L L- S TA R S I D E

Chickpea Salad SMASHED CUCUMBERS

WiTH

p. 112

cucumber upgrade Smashing and salting cukes helps release moisture and creates crevices for dressing. Use the side of a chef’s knife to press down, smashing the veggie, then halve lengthwise before cutting into pieces. Toss with salt and let sit 10 minutes.

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GLUTEN FREE

Da z z l i n g Dip

Summer Rolls p. 112

Whisk together 1⁄4 cup lime juice, 2 Tbsp mirin, 2 Tbsp honey and 1 to 2 tsp chili garlic sauce.

Purple Cabbage

Yellow Pepper

+ Scallion + Mint

Watermelon

+ Cucumber + Basil

Baby Spinach

+ Mango + Avocado + Sesame Seeds

Carrot

Red Pepper

+ Scallion + Cilantro

Master the wrapping method with our step-by-step instructions. page 112

QU IC K E AT S

Grilled Scallops p. 112

SECRETS TO SCALLOP SUCCESS The Drier, the Better

Time It Right

Skewer Smarter

Moisture is the enemy here. At the supermarket, opt for dry scallops from the ﬁsh counter, which haven’t been treated in a salty brine. Pat them dry with a towel.

Waiting until the last possible second is a good thing in this case. Keep scallops in the fridge until all is ready to go, then add seasonings like salt and pepper just before cooking.

For grilling, two skewers are better than one. Lay scallops on a work surface, then insert skewers. Using a pair helps prevent the scallops from moving and makes ﬂipping a cinch.

FUN & FRESH

DIPS THREE WAYS

Don’t just grab a bag of chips and call it a day! These versatile salsas also taste great on top of steak, chicken and fish.

i cy

P i n ea p p l e Re l i s h

p. 1

ls a

Fr es

p. 1 1 4

More recipes! For exclusive access to recipes from the GH Test Kitchen, scan here.

p. 114

Sa ls a

llo ati To m

c a l B

a e B

r r a

Add Some Crunch!

PICNIC-PERFECT

Chicken Salad Sandwiches Siete’s newest addition to its snack lineup is kettlecooked in 100% avocado oil, then sprinkled with sea salt and vinegar and serrano powders. We’re obsessed. $4, sietefoods.com

WiTH

CHIPS & PICKLES p. 114

S E A F O O D S TA P L E

Crab Cakes & CREAMY SAUCE p. 113

LEGEND OF THE CRAB CLASSIC According to Maryland lore, these patties are believed to have been enjoyed as early as the 16th century by Indigenous Americans of the Chesapeake region, who are said to have coated crabmeat with cornmeal before frying it in bear fat. It might not have been until the 1930s that the name “crab cake” ﬁrst appeared in a cookbook, New York World’s Fair Cookbook. Now ways of making the dish vary, from the use of Old Bay seasoning in Maryland to the addition of Cajun spices and hot sauce in Louisiana. JUNE 2022 G H

EAS Y WEEKNIGHTS Make a fresh and delicious dinner in less time than you’d need to order takeout.

MEATLESS MONDAY

Zucchini Linguine Active 20 min. | Total 30 min.

1. Place clean dishtowel in colander or in strainer set over bowl. Add 2 large zucchini (8 oz each, coarsely grated) and let sit until ready to use. 2. Cook 12 oz linguine per pkg. directions. Reserve 3⁄4 cup pasta cooking water, then drain pasta and return to pot. 3. In large skillet, heat 1⁄4 cup olive oil, 5 cloves garlic (thinly sliced) and 1 red chile (thinly sliced) on medium-low, stirring often, until garlic begins to turn light golden brown, 4 to 6 min.

G H JUNE 2022

4. Immediately remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp grated lemon zest and 1⁄4 cup lemon juice, 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1⁄4 cup reserved pasta water and 1⁄2 tsp kosher salt. Add pasta, return to mediumhigh and cook, tossing until sauce coats noodles, adding more reserved pasta water as necessary. 5. Toss with grated zucchini. Divide among bowls and top with 1 cup microgreens and additional Parmesan and lemon zest if desired. SERVES 4 About 490 cal, 18 g fat (3.5 g sat), 15 g pro, 435 mg sodium, 70 g carb, 5 g fiber

Photographs by MIKE GARTEN Prop styling by ALEX MATA Food styling by CHRISTINE ALBANO

HEALTHY COMFORT

Crispy Chicken and Buttermilk Salad Active 15 min. | Total 35 min.

1. Heat oven to 400°F and line rimmed baking sheet with nonstick foil. Slightly crush 4 cups cornﬂakes and place in shallow bowl. 2. Brush four 5- to 6-oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts on all sides with 1⁄4 cup buttermilk, then season with 1⁄2 tsp each cayenne and kosher salt and 1⁄4 tsp pepper. Coat chicken in cornﬂakes, pressing gently to adhere, and place on prepared sheet. Bake until cooked through, 15 to 20 min. Slice if desired.

3. Meanwhile, in large bowl, whisk together 1⁄4 cup each buttermilk and sour cream, 11⁄2 Tbsp white wine vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard and 1⁄4 tsp each salt and pepper; stir in 1 Tbsp fresh tarragon (chopped). Add 6 cups torn Gem or green leaf lettuce and toss to coat, then fold in 1⁄2 medium bulb fennel (cored and thinly sliced) and 1 small seedless cucumber (cut into matchsticks). Serve with chicken and sprinkle with 2 Tbsp fresh chives (chopped). SERVES 4 About 345 cal, 7.5 g fat (3 g sat), 37 g pro, 650 mg sodium, 33 g carb, 3 g fiber

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C o o k + S avo r / TOP-T EST ED RECIP ES

Go Veg! Use Halloumi, a ﬁrm grilling cheese, in place of the steak for a vegetarian feast! Season slices with Aleppo pepper, then grill until lightly charred, about 20 sec. per side.

MAKE AHEAD

Aleppo Grilled Steak with Farro Salad Active 25 min. | Total 25 min.

1. Heat grill to medium. Cook 11⁄2 cups quick-cooking farro per pkg. directions. 2. Season two 12-oz strip steaks (each about 11⁄2 in. thick) with 3⁄4 tsp Aleppo pepper, 1⁄2 tsp kosher salt and 1⁄4 tsp black pepper and grill to desired doneness, 5 to 8 min. per side for medium-rare. Transfer to cutting board and let rest at least 5 min. before slicing. 3. In medium bowl, combine 2 tsp grated lemon zest and 3 Tbsp lemon juice, 2 small shallots (sliced) and 1⁄2 tsp each salt and black pepper and let sit 5 min.

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Stir in 3 Tbsp olive oil, then toss with farro. Fold in 3⁄4 cup pitted Castelvetrano olives (crushed and roughly chopped) and 1⁄4 cup each ﬂat-leaf parsley and fresh mint (both roughly chopped) and serve with steak. SERVES 4 About 700 cal, 31 g fat (10.5 g sat), 48 g pro, 860 mg sodium, 57 g carb, 9 g fiber

M A KE-A HE A D TIP Make the farro salad

without the herbs and refrigerate up to 2 days. Fold in the herbs just before serving.

GLUTEN FREE

Green Curry Shrimp Active 15 min. | Total 25 min.

1. Cook 1 cup long-grain white rice per pkg. directions. In small bowl, toss 1 red onion (thinly sliced) with 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice and 1⁄4 tsp kosher salt; set aside. 2. Meanwhile, heat 1 tsp olive oil in large saucepan on medium. Add 3 Tbsp Thai green curry paste and cook, stirring often, until fragrant, about 3 min. Stir in one 13.5- to 14-oz can coconut milk (well shaken) and 1 cup water, then add 1⁄4 bunch cilantro (trimmed, tied with kitchen string) and bring to a simmer. Simmer 5 min.

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3. Discard cilantro, then stir in 11⁄2 lbs large peeled and deveined shrimp and cook until just opaque throughout, 4 to 5 min. Remove from heat and stir in 3 Tbsp lime juice and 1 to 2 Tbsp ﬁsh sauce. 4. Serve over rice with lime wedges. Top with pickled onion and, if desired, toasted cashews (roughly chopped) and cilantro leaves. SERVES 4 About 554 cal, 23 g fat (18.5 g sat), 41 g pro, 1,046 mg sodium, 49 g carb, 2 g fiber

Ingredient

START HERE Active 20 min. Total 35 min.

Zucchini

Place rimmed baking sheet in oven and heat to 450°F. Cut 4 zucchini (about 6 oz each) in half lengthwise and, using teaspoon, hollow out each zucchini half. Brush cut sides with 1 tsp oil, then place, cut sides down, on heated baking sheet. Roast 5 min.

Chorizo

Scallions

Add 2 scallions (thinly sliced) to chorizo and toss to combine.

Jack Cheese & Cilantro

FLAVOR SWAP Substitute equal amounts of Italian sausage, parsley and provolone for chorizo, cilantro and Jack cheese.

Serves 4 About 250 cal, 19 g fat (8 g sat), 14 g pro, 560 mg sodium, 5 g carb, 2 g fiber

Fold in 3 oz Monterey Jack cheese (coarsely grated) and 1⁄2 cup cilantro (chopped). Turn zucchini cut sides up and season with 1⁄4 tsp each kosher salt and pepper. Divide chorizo mixture among zucchini halves (about 1⁄4 cup per half) and roast until zucchini are just tender, 8 to 10 min. more. Sprinkle with cilantro if desired.

Mike Garten. Food styling: Simon Andrews. Prop styling: Alex Mata. Ingredients: Getty Images.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tsp olive oil in large skillet on medium-high. Add 2 small links fresh chorizo sausage (about 6 oz total; casings removed) and cook, breaking up, until no longer pink, 3 to 4 min. Using slotted spoon, transfer to bowl.

HIGH PROTEIN, LESS SUGAR

& NUTRIENTS TO SUPPORT IMMUNE HEALTH

‡

Available in 5 delicious flavors:

with Caffeine§

‡ Survey among 1038 consumers 50+; those who drank 1 Ensure Max Protein shake per day for 14 days and reported feeling more energy vs control group. Ensure Max Protein has 150 calories, 30g protein, and 8 B vitamins for energy metabolism. * 90% less sugar than Ensure® Original. Ensure Original 8 fl oz = 10g sugar vs Ensure Max Protein 11 fl oz = 1g sugar. † Vitamins C and E. § Contains 100 mg caffeine. Use as part of a healthy diet. ©2022 Abbott 202210389a/February 2022 LITHO IN USA

SPAGHETTI

™

THERE’S A NEW NOODLE IN TOWN.

VEGETABLE SPIRALS

Green Giant Veggie Spirals® products are an exciting twist on pasta. Available in zucchini, butternut squash, sweet potato ‘rotini’ & spaghetti squash, Green Giant Veggie Spirals® are 100% vegetables with no sauce or seasoning added.

15 MAKE IN

MINUTES

rom scratch

MARINATED PEPPERS Turn up the heat to quickly transform this crunchy veggie into a tender, charred and lightly sweet snack — delicious in sauces or dips or all on its own.

Garlic

Peppers Vinegar

Photographs by MIKE GARTEN

Prop styling by ALEX MATA

Food styling by SIMON ANDREWS

Parsley

C o o k + S avo r / FR OM SCRATCH

Marinated Peppers Active 15 min. | Total 40 min.

6 peppers (red, orange and/or yellow) 1 small clove garlic 2 Tbsp sherry vinegar Kosher salt and pepper 2 Tbsp olive oil Chopped flat-leaf parsley, for serving 1. Heat grill to high or arrange oven rack 6 in. from broiler and heat broiler. 2. Grill or broil peppers (on rimmed baking sheet), turning occasionally, until blackened and charred, 8 to 10 min. total. 3. Transfer to bowl and cover at least 10 min. (this helps skin separate from peppers, making it easier to peel oﬀ). 4. Meanwhile, ﬁnely grate garlic into bowl. Add vinegar, 1⁄2 tsp salt and 1⁄4 tsp pepper and stir to combine. Let sit while prepping peppers. 5. Peel peppers, then remove stems and seeds. Cut into pieces. Stir olive oil into vinegar mixture, then toss with peppers. Let sit at least 15 min., tossing occasionally, before serving. Toss with parsley if desired. MAKES 3 CUPS Each 1⁄4 cup about 38 cal, 2 g fat (0 g sat), 1 g pro, 82 mg sodium, 5 g carb, 0 g fiber

Roasted Pepper Dip Active 10 min. | Total 10 min.

In food processor, pulse ⅓ cup roasted almonds to ﬁnely chop. Add 1 cup marinated peppers, 1 scallion (chopped) and 2 Tbsp ﬂat-leaf parsley and process until nearly smooth. Adjust seasoning with vinegar, salt and pepper as needed. SERVES 4 Each 1⁄4 cup about 102 cal, 8 g fat (0.8 g sat), 3 g pro, 100 mg sodium, 8 g carb, 1 g fiber

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Marinated Pepper Pasta Active 20 min. | Total 20 min.

Heat oven to 425°F. On rimmed baking sheet, toss 2 red onions (cut into ¼-in.-thick wedges) with 1 Tbsp olive oil and ¼ tsp each salt and pepper. Roast until golden brown and tender, 15 to 20 min. Cook 12 oz rigatoni per pkg. directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta cooking water, then drain. Toss pasta with ¼ cup pasta water and ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano, adding more water if pasta seems dry. Then toss with onions and ½ batch marinated peppers (about 1½ cups) and season with salt and pepper. Fold in 1 cup fresh basil leaves (torn). Drizzle with additional oil and serve topped with grated pecorino if desired. SERVES 4 About 482 cal, 14 g fat (4 g sat), 18 g pro, 625 mg sodium, 75 g carb, 4.5 g fiber

FIERY FLAVOR

Roast a whole jalapeño or Fresno chile along with your peppers for a hint of heat.

inside the

GH Kitchen Lab

KITCHEN APPLIANCES LAB

NICOLE PAPANTONIOU LAB DIRECTOR @nicole_papantoniou

Our appliance pro and lead product tester shares her tried-and-true tips for organizing your kitchen and the items she relies on for washing endless stacks of dishes.

TOP TOOLS

Dishwashing Dynamos Make this daily task less of a chore with these GH Cleaning Labapproved helpers.

Dish Gloves

These keep my hands fresh and stand up to months of daily use. O-CEDAR PLAYTEX LIVING GLOVES, $3, OCEDAR.COM

Bottle Brush

My go-to for corners and edges (including air fryer baskets!) as well as bottles, wine glasses and cups. OXO GOOD GRIPS BOTTLE BRUSH, $8

Dish Soap

This top-performing GH Sustainable Innovation Award winner sudses up nicely and is free of dyes. SEVENTH GENERATION DISH LIQUID, $3

Bold Crock

Clear Containers

Clever Corner Savers

The wide opening ﬁts a lot of tools, and it comes in eight colors.

These stack, and many use the same lid size (less rummaging!).

They’re available in multiple sizes, sets and colors, some with two tiers.

LE CREUSET UTENSIL CROCK, $55

RUBBERMAID BRILLIANCE PANTRY, $50 FOR FOUR

COPCO 12-INCH TURNTABLE, $10, AMAZON.COM

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A sprinkle goes a long way on grease and stubborn buildup; it even smells good. MRS. MEYER’S LAVENDER SURFACE SCRUB, $4, MRSMEYERS.COM

Kitchen: Annie Schlechter.

Surface Scrub

FamilyRoom E x p e r t A d v i c e + I n s p i r a t i o n f o r Yo u r F a m i l y + P e t s

PA R E N T I NG

Helping Them Find Their Voice Encouraging your kids to share their own preferences and opinions speaks volumes. by MARISA LASCALA

dust light fixtures

Spritz a paper towel with glass cleaner to make a homemade wipe.

Getty Images.

CLEANING TIP NO. 9

SE LF-A DVOCACY / fa m i ly r o o m

I have a clear memory of taking my daughter to one of her welltoddler visits at the doctor’s oﬃce. During a routine check-in about developmental milestones, the pediatrician asked me how many words my daughter knew. “I think she knows around 150 words,” I said proudly. The doctor shot me a questioning look. It was only then that I realized she hadn’t made a peep the whole time — I had been doing all the talking. I felt like the mom of Michigan J. Frog, the Looney Tunes character who sang only when no one was watching. Not that a toddler should be expected to carry on long conversations at the pediatrician’s office, but my tendency to speak up for my daughter has extended into her elementary school years. And while I think I’m helping — making doctor’s appointments go more smoothly, for example, or telling a server her order at a restaurant for efficiency’s sake — I could be hurting her in the long run.

Getty Images.

Zip your Lips When I give the whole family’s order at a restaurant, what I’m really doing is robbing my daughter of the opportunity to practice speaking up for herself in a controlled, safe way, and that has a ripple effect. “Self-advocacy and self-confidence are actually very complementary,” says Jenn Curtis, M.S.W., owner of educational consulting firm FutureWise Consulting and coauthor of the best-selling The Parent Compass. “The more opportunities kids have to speak for themselves and voice their opinions, the more they feel empowered. Their confidence grows, and they’re likely to speak up for themselves in other situations.” Curtis says she started in restaurants with her own family. “I felt that was the easiest, most benign place where they could get a lot of practice,” she says. “My kids knew that when it was time to order, they had to look the server in the eye and tell them what they wanted to eat. They also knew that if they wanted a coloring page and crayons, they needed to ask for the coloring page and the crayons.” The doctor’s office, where I was forced to recognize my own pushiness, is a great place to practice self-advocacy. When kids

go in for a visit, they should get the ﬁrst crack at describing their symptoms and answering questions. Parents can ﬁll in some of the details afterward if there’s anything their child has missed. When they reach high school, teens can be in charge of scheduling their own appointments too. If kids are having problems in school, see if they can address it with their teachers directly — having these interactions will serve them well overall later on. “I’ve done interviews with college professors and deans, and more and more they’re talking about how kids are coming to college unprepared for the college environment, especially when students need to advocate for themselves,” Curtis says.

Overcome Shyness My fear, of course, is that I’ll urge my daughter to tell a server what she wants to eat and be met with a silent stare. In such a case, I worry that I’ll be faced with two bad options: Sit there quietly and become the biggest pain-in-the-neck customer of the day, or revert to my old helicoptering ways and just give the order myself. Curtis says practicing a few times at home ﬁrst is the way to avoid that stressful scenario altogether. “Roleplaying is really powerful,” she says. “It gives kids the tools, and sometimes the actual words to use, when they’re in a help-seeking situation.”

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For kids who are dealing with problems that are more complex, role-playing still helps — as does brainstorming and goalsetting. Sometimes it’s just a matter of helping them figure out what they ultimately want; if you assist them with that, they can figure out a path toward getting it. It’s going to take a while for me to get there with my daughter. For one thing, we haven’t been going to restaurants because of the pandemic — and she hasn’t had that many doctor visits, either (thank you, masks). So I still see some uncomfortable silences in our future. But I did recently give her cash and let her go into a store by herself to buy a book she wanted while I waited outside. She told me afterward that she resisted the urge to get Pokémon cards instead, but if she had pulled the bait and switch, I would’ve grudgingly accepted it as a demonstration of her self-advocacy. (Nobody tell her that.) While I waited outside the store, I was nervous, but also buoyed by a sense of purpose and the hope of an eventual payoff. “I had a student years ago whom I just really respected,” Curtis says. “She had it all together. She was poised; she was confident. I asked her what her parents had done right, because I’m always trying to pick up parenting tips for myself. And, without skipping a beat, she looked at me and said, ‘They made me do hard things.’ ”

CLEANING TIP NO. 10

remove fur easily

Mist upholstery with a staticzapping spray to loosen pet hair.

LOOK FOR REGULATIONS ON THE LABEL

PICK THE RIGHT

Pet Food

With so many choices, deciding what your furry friend really needs can be daunting. Experts weigh in on how to ﬁll pets’ bowls.

Getty Images.

by LIZZ SCHUMER

Just as you wouldn’t feed your baby a steak, puppies and kittens shouldn’t eat the same food formulation as adult animals. Your pet’s breed and size, activity level and lifestyle, medical needs and stage of life all play a role in determining which food is best, explains Rachel Beck, a certiﬁed veterinary technician at Banﬁeld Pet Hospital. Pets who are couch potatoes may need food that’s less calorie-dense than working dogs do, and those with diabetes, kidney or liver disease or allergies may need specially formulated

Cheaper pet food isn’t necessarily low-quality, and vice versa. Don’t be swayed by language that’s little more than a ploy to separate you from your money. Nothing regulates signifiers like “gourmet” and “holistic,” so those words don’t mean much, Beck explains. Instead, look for the logo of the Association of American Feed Control Officials followed by the required nutritional adequacy statement — this indicates that the food is complete and balanced and meets guidelines for the recommended amount and proportion of essential nutrients for different nutritional categories of pets, such as gestation/lactation, growth, maintenance and all life stages. Also, the fact that something doesn’t sound appetizing to our human palates doesn’t mean it’s not good for a pet. Animal proteins such as red meat, chicken and fish help them build and maintain muscle tone and development as well as healthy skin. Meat and bone meal provide amino acids, calcium and phosphorous, which help them keep muscles lean and teeth and bones strong. Animal fat helps give them energy, healthy skin and a shiny coat. And grains and legumes can provide protein, carbohydrates and fat as well as fiber and micronutrients. “When shopping for pet food, it can help to know that animal protein, meat and bone meal and grains like ground whole corn and rice aren’t necessarily cheap fillers,” Beck explains. “In fact, these ingredients can be nutritious and easily digestible power players.” Many pet-food labels list by-products that can be healthy for your pet as well. For example, beet pulp, tomato pomace and organ meats like liver, heart, lungs, spleen and kidneys can be good sources of protein and other nutrients.

BE SMART ABOUT DIET FOOD food. “No one formula is ideal for all pets, and your dog’s diet may change over time based on their unique needs, lifestyle and medical history,” Beck explains. “Generally the best nutritional option for pets is to feed a consistent, balanced and veterinarian-approved diet that meets their individual nutritional requirements and is appropriate for their life stage.” That’s why it’s important to work with your vet to determine the right food for your companion. Every time you head to the vet for a checkup, bring a list of the food and treats your pet eats so you can discuss whether it’s time to adjust their diet or portion sizes. JUNE 2022 G H

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Obesity is an epidemic for pets; a Banﬁeld report found that the percentage of dogs diagnosed as overweight or obese jumped from 16% in 2011 to 34% in 2020. In cats, the increase was from 18% in 2011 to 38% in 2020. To determine whether your pet needs to shed some pounds, take a bird’s-eye view: Looking at them from above, you should see a tuck at their waist, and when petting their sides, you should be able to lightly feel (but not see) their ribs. If either of these tests fails, talk to your vet about a weight-loss regimen, starting with changing what they’re eating. “A healthy weight is won or lost at the food bowl,” says Ernie Ward, D.V.M., founder

Fa m i ly & P e t s / CATS & D O GS

CLEANING TIP NO. 11

improve vacuum pickup

Replace its ﬁlter every two to three months or as directed.

Two Tantalizing Textures. One Delicious Treat! Your cat will love our tasty treats starting with real chicken or ﬁsh.

Learn more at BLUEBursts.com

food and 25% of the new kind, gradually increasing the percentage of new food each day until your pet is gobbling only the new, Beck advises.

AVOID CHASING TRENDS Feeding your pet a specialized diet that isn’t right for them can have dangerous consequences. The FDA is investigating a possible link between heart problems in dogs and foods labeled “grain-free” with peas and legumes in their first 10 ingredients, for example. And while raw and homemade pet foods are trendy, it’s difficult for the average pet owner to make pet food that contains all the necessary nutrients. Also, raw meat can carry pathogens, which can be problematic if bowls aren’t sterilized after every use. Watch your pet’s weight and overall health to ensure that they’re getting the right nutrient balance and that their food fits their current lifestyle. If your pet is having digestive issues or trouble chewing or is simply slowing down, your vet can help recommend a healthy diet.

JUNE 2022 VOL. 273, NO. 5 Good Housekeeping® (ISSN 0017-209X) is published monthly (except combined issues in Jan/Feb and July/Aug), 10 times a year, by Hearst, 300 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019, U.S.A. Steven R. Swartz, President & Chief Executive Officer; William R. Hearst III, Chairman; Frank A. Bennack, Jr., Executive Vice Chairman; Mark E. Aldam, Chief Operating Officer. Hearst Magazines, Inc.: Debi Chirichella, President & Treasurer; Kate Lewis, Chief Content Officer; Catherine A. Bostron, Secretary. © 2022 by Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Good Housekeeping is a registered trademark of Hearst Communications, Inc. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY, and additional entry post offices. Canada Post International Publications mail product (Canadian distribution) sales agreement no. 40012499. Editorial and advertising offices: 300 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019-3797. Subscription Prices: United States and possessions: $24.97 for one year; Canada, add $8; all other countries, add $22. Subscription Services: Good Housekeeping will, upon receipt of a complete subscription order, undertake fulfillment of that order so as to provide the first copy for delivery by the Postal Service or alternate carrier within 4–6 weeks. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 707.4.12.5); NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: Send address corrections to Good Housekeeping, P.O. Box 6000, Harlan, IA 51593. For customer service, changes of address and subscription orders, log on to goodhouse keeping.com/service, or write to Customer Service Department, Good Housekeeping, P.O. Box 6000, Harlan, IA 51593.

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of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. Obesity is a significant risk factor for diseases like diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and even cancer. But while it’s tempting to just pick up a bag labeled “weight management” and call it a day, those “diet” foods might not be right for your pet’s needs. Plan a diet strategy with your vet to make sure your pet gets the right balance of nutrients while losing weight at a safe rate, Ward advises. “If you simply reduce what you’re feeding your dog or cat, you’re also cutting back on essential proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals, which can lead to significant nutrient deficiencies,” he explains. Switching foods suddenly can cause serious health problems too, especially for picky kitties. Obese cats in particular are at risk of developing hepatic lipidosis, a life-threatening form of liver failure, if their portions are cut too quickly. Change their diet slowly to avoid shocking their system (and their taste buds): Start at the beginning of the week with 75% of their old

Tasty. Healthy.

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ONE TASTE IS ALL IT TAKES

T H E WOR K BOOK Ready, Set, Summer! p. 84

SUMMER ROLLS

Active 25 min. | Total 25 min.

GR ILLED SC A LLOPS

QGO

Active 15 min. | Total 20 min.

12 1⁄2 1⁄4 1

Oil, for grill and drizzling large sea scallops tsp ground sumac tsp ground coriander Kosher salt and pepper lime, halved Fresh lime zest, for serving

CLEANING TIP NO. 12

1. Heat grill to medium-high. Pat scallops dry and thread 3 scallops onto 2 parallel skewers; repeat with remaining scallops and additional skewers. Refrigerate 5 min. 2. Pat scallops dry again if necessary, then season with sumac, coriander, 1⁄2 tsp salt and 1⁄4 tsp pepper. 3. Grill scallops until opaque throughout, 2 to 3 min. per side. 4. Grill lime halves, cut sides down, until charred, about 2 min. Transfer scallops to platter and grate lime zest on top, then drizzle with oil. Serve with charred lime. SERVES 4 About 107 cal, 4 g fat (0.5 g sat), 14 g pro, 405 mg sodium, 5 g carb, 1 g fiber

12 oz Persian cucumbers Kosher salt and pepper 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice 1 tsp honey 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp capers, drained and roughly chopped 1⁄4 tsp dried oregano 1⁄2 very small red onion, finely chopped 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped 1 15-oz can chickpeas, rinsed 12 oz mixed cherry and grape tomatoes (halved or sliced) 1⁄2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped Crumbled feta cheese, for serving

1. Cook rice noodles and prepare your favorite fillings. To assemble rolls: Fill pie plate or large bowl with warm water. Working quickly with 1 rice paper wrapper at a time, submerge in warm water until pliable, about 20 sec. 2. Place on cutting board and arrange some of each filling ingredient in center and roll per directions below. Repeat with remaining wrappers and fillings.

HOW TO PERFECT A ROLL Create this easy-to-dip appetizer or lunch in three simple steps.

1. With side of chef’s knife, bash cucumbers slightly to crush, halve lengthwise, then cut each into 4 to 6 chunks. Transfer cucumbers to bowl and toss with 2 tsp salt. Let sit 10 min. 2. Meanwhile, in large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and honey to dissolve. Whisk in oil, capers, oregano and 1⁄4 tsp each salt and pepper. Add onion, jalapeño and chickpeas and toss to combine. Let sit at least 10 min. 3. Transfer cucumbers to colander and rinse, then shake oﬀ as much water as possible. Add to bowl with dressing, along with tomatoes and parsley, and toss to combine. Serve topped with feta if desired.

1. Fold wrapper sides in to seal. 2. Starting from bottom, fold base over ﬁlling and roll up to seal, being careful not to tear wrapper. 3. Continue rolling to wrap ﬁlling completely.

SERVES 4 TO 6 About 156 cal, 7 g fat (1 g sat), 5 g pro, 358 mg sodium, 22 g carb, 5 g fiber

Clean coffeestained mugs

Make a paste of baking soda and water (this also works for to-go cups). KEY: Q QUICK & EASY

G GLUTEN FREE

M MAKE AHEAD

QGVO

V VEGETARIAN

O ONE POT

H HOLIDAY FAVORITE

Mike Garten. Illustrations: Brown Bird Design.

CHICK PE A SA L A D W ITH SM A SHED CUCUMBER S Q G V

T H E WOR K B O OK

CR A B C A K ES Active 25 min. | Total 25 min. plus chilling

1⁄3 1 2 1 1⁄4 2 2 2 2 1⁄2 1 1

cup mayonnaise large egg Tbsp Dijon mustard tsp Worcestershire sauce to 1⁄2 tsp hot sauce (we used Tabasco) scallions, finely chopped Tbsp flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped tsp grated lemon zest 8-oz containers lump crab meat, picked through cup panko Tbsp olive oil Tbsp unsalted butter Green salad and Creamy Sauce (recipe at right), for serving

1. In medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce; stir in scallions, parsley and lemon zest. Add crab and panko and mix to combine. Cover and refrigerate 1 hr. 2. Shape crab mixture into eight 1-in.thick cakes. Heat oil and butter in large nonstick skillet on medium and cook crab cakes in batches until golden brown and heated through, 3 to 4 min. per side, adding more

KEY: Q QUICK & EASY

G GLUTEN FREE

GA R LICK Y W INGS A N D SHISHITO PEPPER S G

oil as necessary. Serve with mixed green salad and Creamy Sauce if desired. CR E A M Y SAUCE

Active 20 min. | Total 25 min. plus marinating

QGVO

In bowl, combine 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise, 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard, 1⁄2 Tbsp wholegrain mustard, 2 tsp lemon juice, 1⁄4 tsp hot sauce (we used Tabasco), 1 scallion (ﬁnely chopped) and 1 Tbsp chopped capers or pickles (optional).

PARTY-RE ADY APP Turn this main into a crowdpleasing starter by shaping the crab mixture into twenty 1-in.-thick cakes. Heat broiler. Line baking sheet with nonstick foil and place crab cakes on top. Put 1 thin pat of butter on top of each cake and broil until cooked through, 4 to 6 min.

3 Tbsp ﬁsh sauce, divided 2 Tbsp lime juice, divided 1 Tbsp plus 1 tsp packed brown sugar, divided 4 cloves garlic, 2 pressed and 2 thinly sliced 2 lbs chicken wings 1⁄2 lb shishito peppers 2 Tbsp plus 2 tsp canola oil Kosher salt 1 small red chile, thinly sliced Chopped cilantro and torn basil, for serving 1. In large bowl, whisk together 2 Tbsp ﬁsh sauce, 1 Tbsp lime juice and 1 Tbsp brown sugar to dissolve, then stir in pressed garlic and toss with wings. Refrigerate at least 1 hr. and up to 3 hr. 2. Heat air fryer on 400°F. Transfer wings to air fryer (discard marinade), set timer to 15 min., press Start and cook 8 min. 3. Toss shishito peppers with 2 tsp oil and 1⁄4 tsp salt. Flip wings, scatter shishito peppers around wings and continue cooking until wings are cooked through and peppers are

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H HOLIDAY FAVORITE

browned in spots, 7 min. more. Transfer to platter. 4. Meanwhile, in small skillet, heat remaining 2 Tbsp oil and sliced garlic on low, stirring, 4 min. Add chile and cook until garlic is golden brown and crisp, about 3 min. more. Remove from heat and stir in remaining lime juice, ﬁsh sauce and brown sugar. Spoon over wings and peppers and sprinkle with herbs. SERVES 4 About 389 cal, 27.5 g fat (6 g sat), 28 g pro, 821 mg sodium, 8 g carb, 2 g fiber

TEST KITCHEN TIP No air fryer? Fire up the grill instead! Heat grill to low. Place wings, bone sides down, on grill and grill, covered, 10 min. Flip and continue grilling until cooked through, 10 to 15 min. more. Grill shishitos on medium-high, ﬂipping once, until charred, 4 to 6 min. total.

T H E WOR K B O OK

CHICK EN SA L A D SA N DW ICHES Q O

BIG -BATCH WATER MELON M A RGA R ITA S Q G V

Active 20 min. | Total 20 min.

Active 10 min. | Total 10 min.

1⁄4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise 2 Tbsp pickle brine Kosher salt and pepper 3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast 1⁄4 cup ﬂat-leaf parsley, chopped 1⁄4 cup fresh dill, chopped 4 rolls, split and toasted if desired Lettuce, pickles and potato chips, for serving

SERVES 4 About 531 cal, 27 g fat (5 g sat), 39 g pro, 887 mg sodium, 31 g carb, 2 g fiber

LOVELY LEFTOVERS Refrigerate any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. And instead of bread, scoop salad into romaine lettuce leaves and add sliced radishes and scallions if desired.

SW EET & SPICY PIN E A PPLE R ELISH

In bowl, mix together beans, tomatoes, jalapeños, onion, lime juice, cilantro, 1⁄2 tsp salt and 1⁄4 tsp pepper.

QGVO

Active 15 min. | Total 15 min.

1⁄4 fresh pineapple, cored and cut into 1⁄4-in. pieces 2 scallions, thinly sliced 2 jalapeños, seeded and ﬁnely chopped 2 to 3 Tbsp fresh lime juice Kosher salt and pepper 1 avocado, diced 1⁄2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped 1. In bowl, mix together pineapple, scallions, jalapeños, lime juice, 1⁄2 tsp salt and 1⁄4 tsp pepper. 2. Fold in avocado and cilantro just before serving. MAKES ABOUT 2 CUPS About 116 cal, 7.5 g fat (1 g sat), 2 g pro, 127 mg sodium, 14 g carb, 4 g fiber

BL ACK BE A N SA LSA FR ESC A

QGVO

Active 15 min. | Total 15 min.

1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed 3 plum tomatoes, seeded and cut into 1⁄4-in. pieces 2 small jalapeños (seeded if desired), ﬁnely chopped 1⁄2 small red onion, ﬁnely chopped 3 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1⁄2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped Kosher salt and pepper

KEY: Q QUICK & EASY

MAKES 21⁄2 CUPS About 79 cal, 0.5 g fat (0 g sat), 5 g pro, 168 mg sodium, 15 g carb, 6 g fiber

CH A R R ED -TOM ATILLO SA LSA Q G V

1. In blender, puree watermelon and lime juice. Let mixture settle, then strain into pitcher. Stir in tequila and Cointreau. 2. If desired, rub rims of 4 glasses with lime slice and dip in salt and lime zest to coat. Add ice and margarita, then top with lime slices and watermelon pieces if desired. SERVES 4 TO 6 About 168 cal, 0 g fat (0 g sat), 0 g pro, 4 mg sodium, 16 g carb, 1 g fiber

Active 20 min. | Total 20 min.

12 oz tomatillos, husked, rinsed and halved 1 large jalapeño, halved and seeded 1⁄2 medium onion, peeled and cut into wedges 1 clove garlic (still in skin) 3 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1⁄2 cup packed fresh cilantro Kosher salt 1. Arrange oven rack 6 in. from broiler; heat broiler. Line rimmed baking sheet with foil. 2. Arrange tomatillos and jalapeño, cut sides down, on prepared sheet along with onion and garlic and broil until blistered, 10 to 12 min. Let vegetables cool, then transfer to food processor, discarding garlic skin. Add lime juice, cilantro and 1⁄2 tsp salt. Pulse until combined but still slightly chunky.

PART Y PREP Double the watermelon and lime juices and puree, then refrigerate in airtight containers or jars for up to 3 days. Shake container before adding alcohol (watermelon juice will separate).

Mike Garten.

1. In large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, pickle brine and 1⁄4 tsp each salt and pepper. 2. Add chicken and toss to coat, then fold in parsley and dill. 3. Form sandwiches on rolls with lettuce, chicken salad, pickles and potato chips.

12 oz watermelon chunks, plus watermelon slices, for serving 1⁄2 cup fresh lime juice, plus lime slices, for serving 3⁄4 cup tequila 1⁄4 cup Cointreau Coarse salt and ﬁnely grated lime zest, for glasses

SERVES 6 About 26 cal, 1 g fat (0 g sat), 1 g pro, 162 mg sodium, 5 g carb, 1 g fiber

G GLUTEN FREE

M MAKE AHEAD

V VEGETARIAN

O ONE POT

H HOLIDAY FAVORITE

WE’RE ON THE SIDE OF FOOD

T H E WOR K B O OK Inside the GH Nutrition Lab

gh kitchen gear

p. 66

BAKER SET WHY WE MADE IT These light yet durable pans nest for stacking and compact storage. They feature our unique fourlayer nonstick surface, ideal for baking and roasting. $33 for set, qvc.co/GH SEE US IN ACTION! Tune in to QVC to learn more about the products, or shop any time at qvc.co/GH.

PA N-ROA STED FISH W ITH AVOC A DO, CH A R R ED SC A LLION A N D PA PAYA R ELISH Q G Active 20 min. | Total 25 min.

Active 15 min. | Total 40 min. plus cooling

3 very ripe (heavily spotted) bananas 1⁄2 cup canola oil 1 cup sugar 1 large egg 2 cups all-purpose ﬂour 1 tsp baking soda 1⁄2 tsp kosher salt 1⁄2 cup bittersweet chocolate chips Chocolate sauce, for serving 1. Heat oven to 350°F. Spray 9- by 13-in. baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Line with parchment paper, leaving overhang on 2 long sides; spray paper. 2. In medium bowl, mash bananas with oil, sugar and egg. Add ﬂour, baking soda and salt, stirring just to combine, then fold in chocolate chips (don’t overmix). 3. Transfer batter to prepared pan and bake until cake gently springs back when pressed, 18 to 22 min. 4. Let cake cool completely. Use overhangs to transfer to cutting board and cut into pieces. Serve drizzled with chocolate sauce if desired. SERVES 10

ROA STED EGGPL A N T V EGGIE BU RGER V Active 40 min. | Total 1 hr.

1 12-oz eggplant, halved lengthwise 3 Tbsp olive oil, divided Kosher salt and pepper 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 Tbsp paprika 1 tsp dried thyme 1 tsp dried oregano 1⁄2 cup quick-cooking oats 1⁄2 cup raw walnuts 1 15-oz can lentils, rinsed 1 large egg yolk 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 4 slices American cheese (optional) 4 brioche buns Iceberg or romaine lettuce, mayonnaise, tomato, red onion and pickled jalapeño, for topping 1. Heat oven to 375°F. Line rimmed baking sheet with nonstick baking mat or parchment. 2. Score ﬂesh side of each eggplant half in diamond pattern. Brush cut sides with 1 Tbsp oil and season with 1⁄4 tsp salt. Roast until very tender, 25 to 30 min. 3. Meanwhile, heat remaining 2 Tbsp oil in medium skillet on medium. Add onion, season with 1⁄2 tsp each salt and pepper and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, 5 min. 4. Stir in garlic, paprika, thyme and oregano and cook, stirring, 2 min. Let cool.

KEY: Q QUICK & EASY

5. In food processor, pulse oats and walnuts until very ﬁnely chopped; transfer mixture to small bowl. 6. Scoop eggplant into food processor, discarding skin. Add lentils, egg yolk, Worcestershire sauce and onion mixture and process until nearly smooth. Add walnut-oat mixture and pulse to combine. 7. Divide eggplant mixture in 4 and scoop onto prepared pan, then gently shape mixture into round patties. Bake until browned, 10 to 13 min., adding cheese during last minute of cooking if using. Let cool 5 min. before making sandwiches with buns and toppings. SERVES 4 About 515 cal, 24 g fat (4 g sat), 18 g pro, 796 mg sodium, 61 g carb, 15 g fiber

THE RIGHT WAY TO REHE AT Prepare the burgers, let cool, then wrap individually and freeze up to 2 months. To cook, unwrap frozen burgers and reheat in a 400°F oven until warm, 10 to 15 minutes.

1 4 1 1

scallions Tbsp plus 1 tsp olive oil Tbsp lime juice tsp honey Kosher salt and pepper jalapeño, thinly sliced 6-oz ﬁllets striped bass cup diced papaya (about 1 small papaya) avocado, diced

1. Heat broiler. Place scallions on rimmed baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tsp oil and broil until charred, about 2 min. Transfer to cutting board and let cool, then thinly slice. 2. In large bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey and 1⁄4 tsp salt. Stir in jalapeño and scallions. 3. Heat remaining 2 Tbsp oil in medium skillet on medium. Pat fish dry, season with 1⁄2 tsp each salt and pepper and cook, skin side down, until skin is golden brown and crisp, 6 to 7 min. Flip and cook until fish is opaque throughout, 3 to 5 min. more. Transfer to platter. 4. Fold papaya and avocado into jalapeño mixture and spoon over fish.

Mike Garten.

CHOCOL ATEBA NA NA C A K E

2 2 1 1

G GLUTEN FREE

M MAKE AHEAD

V VEGETARIAN

O ONE POT

H HOLIDAY FAVORITE

T H E WOR K B O OK

JACK FRU IT TACOS W ITH PIN E A PPLE SA LSA

Active 25 min. | Total 3 hr. 25 min.

$500 VALUE

STA R FRU IT– COCON U T WATER SLUSHIE W ITH LEMONGR A SS G V O

Tacos: Getty Images. Slushies: Danielle Daly. Smoothie bowl: Mike Garten. Celebrity artwork: Courtesy of Justin Maas.

Active 5 min. | Total 3 hr. 5 min.

1 10-oz can red enchilada sauce Kosher salt and pepper 2 large cloves garlic, ﬁnely chopped 2 14-oz cans young green jackfruit in brine or water (not syrup), rinsed 1 medium red onion, ﬁnely chopped 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1 tsp honey 1⁄4 small ripe pineapple, peeled, cored and cut into 1⁄4-in. pieces 1 cup fresh cilantro 8 to 12 hard taco shells, warmed Diced avocado and sour cream, for serving 1. In slow cooker, combine enchilada sauce, 1⁄4 cup water and 1⁄4 tsp salt. Stir garlic, jackfruit and all but 2 Tbsp onion into sauce. Cover and cook on High until very tender, about 3 hr. 2. Ten minutes before serving, whisk together lime juice, honey and 1⁄4 tsp each salt and pepper. Toss with remaining onion. 3. Using 2 forks, gently break up jackfruit. Toss onion with pineapple and fold in cilantro. Divide jackfruit among taco shells and top with avocado, pineapple salsa and sour cream if desired.

2 medium star fruit (8 oz total), plus more for serving 13⁄4 cups coconut water 1 Tbsp grated lemongrass, plus more for serving 2 tsp fresh lime juice, plus more for serving 1⁄8 tsp kosher salt Roughly chop star fruit and freeze until hard, about 3 hr. In blender, puree frozen star fruit, coconut water, lemongrass, lime juice and salt until smooth. Taste and add additional lemongrass and lime juice if desired. Serve with additional star fruit and lemongrass if desired.

AÇ A Í SMOOTHIE BOW L Q G V O Active 15 min. | Total 15 min.

CLEANING TIP NO. 13

degunk your oven

Run the self-clean cycle every few months.

1 3.5-oz pkg. (100 g) frozen unsweetened açaí, thawed 1 cup frozen blackberries 1⁄2 cup kefir Dragon fruit, puffed millet, cashew and coconut, for serving Puree açaí, blackberries and kefir in blender until smooth; transfer to bowl. Top with dragon fruit, puffed millet, cashew and coconut clusters.

KEY: Q QUICK & EASY

G GLUTEN FREE

M MAKE AHEAD

you could win

A Portrait by a Celebrated Artist! Justin Maas ( justinmaas.com) is an award-winning artist renowned for his pencil sketches of celebrities including Zendaya, Keira Knightley, Daisy Ridley, Emma Watson and many more. “By playing with focal points, areas of detail and contrast, my drawings go beyond what most photos say about the subject,” says Maas, author of Drawing Realistic Pencil Portraits Step by Step. Enter for a chance to win your own custom-drawn portrait! Enter Now: goodhousekeeping.com/portraitsweeps

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Good Housekeeping Custom Portrait Art from Maas Art Sweepstakes. Sponsored by Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. Beginning May 17, 2022, at 12:01 a.m. (ET) through June 27, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. (ET) (the “Entry Period”), go to goodhousekeeping.com/portraitsweeps and complete the entry form pursuant to the instructions. Prizes & Approximate Retail Value: One (1) Winner will receive one (1) custom-drawn portrait of Winner’s choice. Total ARV: $500 USD. Important Notice: You may be charged for visiting the mobile website in accordance with your carrier’s terms of service. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries. Must be 18 years of age and be a legal resident of the 50 United States or the District of Columbia. Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. Sweepstakes subject to oﬃcial rules available at goodhousekeeping.com/portraitsweeps.

V VEGETARIAN

O ONE POT

H HOLIDAY FAVORITE

Cook + Savor

JANE FRANCISCO EDITOR IN CHIEF & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, HEARST LIFESTYLE GROUP Melissa Geurts CREATIVE DIRECTOR • Beth Dreher EXECUTIVE EDITOR Lauren Matthews GROUP DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR • Kim Cheney EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR EDITORIAL Michelle Manetti GROUP DEPUTY DIRECTOR • Dana A. Levy MANAGING EDITOR Kayla Keegan SENIOR EDITOR, EDITORIAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT • Lizz Schumer SENIOR EDITOR Marisa LaScala SENIOR EDITOR, PARENTING & RELATIONSHIPS • Katarina Avendaño SENIOR SEO EDITOR Selena Barrientos ASSOCIATE EDITOR, ENTERTAINMENT & NEWS • Annie O’Sullivan ASSISTANT EDITOR Hannah Jeon EDITORIAL ASSISTANT • Ann Schinnerer EDITORIAL BUSINESS MANAGER HEALTH NEWSROOM Lisa Bain EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR • Stephanie Dolgoff DEPUTY DIRECTOR Alyssa Jung, Kaitlyn Pirie SENIOR EDITORS • Zee Krstic EDITOR ART & DESIGN Mariana Tuma DESIGN DIRECTOR • Elisabeth Engelhart VISUAL STYLING DIRECTOR Betsy Farrell, Miguel Rivera ART DIRECTORS • Alex Mata CRAFT STYLIST • Laura Formisano DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR Danielle Carson ASSISTANT DESIGNER • Carlos Paredes DIGITAL IMAGING SPECIALIST FOOD Kate Merker CHIEF FOOD DIRECTOR • Trish Clasen Marsanico DEPUTY FOOD EDITOR • Catherine Lo SENIOR FOOD EDITOR Becca Miller ASSOCIATE EDITOR • Samantha MacAvoy EDITORIAL ASSISTANT HOME Monique Valeris SENIOR EDITOR • Amanda Garrity EDITOR • Mariah Thomas ASSISTANT EDITOR FASHION Lori Bergamotto STYLE DIRECTOR • Kristen Saladino EXECUTIVE FASHION DIRECTOR Hannah Deely SENIOR MARKET EDITOR • Rachel Bogo FASHION ASSISTANT BEAUTY April Franzino BEAUTY DIRECTOR • Catharine Malzahn BEAUTY ASSISTANT RESEARCH & COPY Janie Matthews RESEARCH DIRECTOR • Clare Ellis RESEARCH EDITOR Benay R. Bubar COPY CHIEF • Kristy Kofron DEPUTY COPY CHIEF HEARST VISUAL GROUP Roni Martin-Chance VISUAL DIRECTOR • Ulrika Thunberg DEPUTY VISUAL DIRECTOR Sara Neumann VISUAL EDITOR • Lynzee Marmor ASSOCIATE VISUAL EDITOR • Danielle Daly, Mike Garten PHOTOGRAPHERS VIDEO Danny Shaw MOTION GRAPHICS DESIGNER & VIDEO EDITOR • Lauren DeThomasis ASSOCIATE VIDEO PRODUCER

Active 10 min. | Total 10 min. plus draining Makes about 21⁄2 cups

16 8 1⁄2 1 1

oz whole-milk ricotta oz mascarpone cup confectioners’ sugar tsp pure vanilla extract tsp grated fresh lemon zest Kosher salt 1 to 2 Tbsp heavy cream, if needed 1⁄2 cup mini chocolate chips, plus more for serving Strawberries and waﬄe cookies, for dipping

1. Place ricotta in ﬁne-mesh strainer or cheesecloth set over bowl and let sit at least 1 hr. at room temp or refrigerate up to overnight. 2. In food processor (a blender won’t work), puree drained ricotta, mascarpone, sugar, vanilla, lemon zest and a pinch of salt until smooth, adding cream only if needed to loosen dip. Transfer to bowl and fold in chocolate chips. Serve with strawberries and cookies and sprinkle with chocolate chips if desired. SERVES 10 About 256 cal, 18.5 g fat (12 g sat), 7 g pro, 58 mg sodium, 16 g carb, 1 g fiber

TAST Y TOPPER This creamy dip is also great spooned over toasted pound cake or a bowl of fresh blackberries, raspberries and blueberries.

GH INSTITUTE Laurie Jennings GENERAL MANAGER Rachel Rothman CHIEF TECHNOLOGIST & EXECUTIVE TECHNICAL DIRECTOR BEAUTY, HEALTH & SUSTAINABILITY LAB Birnur K. Aral, Ph.D. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Sabina Wizemann SENIOR CHEMIST • Danusia Wnek CHEMIST • Chiara Butler REVIEWS ANALYST HOME CARE & CLEANING LAB Carolyn E. Forté EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR • Jodhaira Rodriguez REVIEWS ANALYST TEXTILES, PAPER & APPAREL LAB Lexie Sachs EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR • Emma Seymour SENIOR ANALYST • Grace Wu PRODUCT ANALYST Amanda Constantine HOME & APPAREL REVIEWS ANALYST KITCHEN APPLIANCES & INNOVATION LAB Nicole Papantoniou DIRECTOR Eva Bleyer REVIEWS ANALYST NUTRITION LAB Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N. DEPUTY DIRECTOR MEDIA, TECH, HOME IMPROVEMENT, WELLNESS, PARENTING & PET LABS Dan DiClerico HOME IMPROVEMENT & OUTDOOR DIRECTOR Olivia Lipski MEDIA & TECH REVIEWS ANALYST • Jamie Spain PARENTING & PETS REVIEWS ANALYST • Alec Scherma TEST ENGINEER EDITORIAL Jessica Teich DEPUTY EDITOR • Sarah Wharton SENIOR EDITOR & ANALYST Jen Gushue SENIOR PRODUCT & REVIEWS EDITOR Raena Loper PRODUCT & REVIEWS UPDATES EDITOR • Jacqueline Saguin ASSOCIATE PRODUCT & REVIEWS EDITOR

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Mike Garten.

p. 83

100% NON-DAIRY. 100% INDULGENT. MADE MINI. MEET NEW MAGNUM NON-DAIRY MINI VARIETY

G H S E A L S TA R

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The experts in the GH Media and Tech Lab gave these erasable gel ink pens high marks for their vibrant colors and ﬁne tips.

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WHY IT EARNED THE GH SEAL Our pros love colorful, nonpermanent Pilot Frixion ColorSticks Erasable Gel Ink Pens for work, school and art. INNOVATIVE E RASE R

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HEAT-SENSITIVE INK

2 Frixion pens from Pilot

contain heat-sensitive ink that reacts to temperature. When you rub over mistakes or stray marks with the eraser end, you create friction, which generates heat that causes the ink to vanish.

FINE TIP

3 Our pros like that these Frixion gel ink pens let you draw ﬁne lines and create clean lettering. The 0.7-mm tip is designed to give you control, and in our tests it was sturdy enough to hold up to extensive use.

BOLD COLORS

4 Classic black and blue are joined by a rainbow of colors — 16 in all — in this line of vibrant pens. All hues are erasable, and our editors love that they help you color-code and organize work ﬁles, calendars, journals and more.

WE STAND BEHIND EVERY PURCHASE WITH OUR 2-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY.* GH TESTS IT, SO YOU CAN TRUST IT!

Mike Garten. Prop styling: Alex Mata.

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48% of domestic abuse victims delay leaving because they can’t take their pet with them.

si or st

marked pac llyka a i ge ec

YO U C A N H E L P U S CH A N G E T H AT.

In honor of National Pet Month, Purina and our family of brands are working to create more pet-friendly domestic violence shelters across the U.S. We are committed to donating $2M by 2025 to our partner RedRover in support of the Purple Leash Project.

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Help us give hope to pets and people when they need it most. S C A N T O D O N AT E .

ULTRAFRESH VENT SYSTEM WITH ODORBLOCK

™

ANTIMICROBIAL TECHNOLOGY THAT PROTECTS AGAINST THE GROWTH OF BACTERIA TO HELP PREVENT UNWANTED ODOR

PROTECTED BY

UNPROTECTED

Simulation for comparative purposes to substantiate antimicrobial activity on the treated article for non-public health issues.