• An air purifier can help clean your indoor air of pollutants, dust, and smoke.
• We tested and researched more than 10 air purifiers to determine the best for your needs and budget.
• TheBlueair Blue Pure 211+ can clean a 650-square-foot room in 15 minutes and indicates when to replace filters.

An air purifier can help improve the quality of your indoor air, which can be more polluted than outside air. Things like candles, cooking grease, and cleaning products can contribute to irritants, and if you're not opening your windows 24/7, they can pollute your indoor air.

Our guide recommends air purifiers that are easy to maintain, remove a broad array of irritants, and performed well in our tests. When we examined each model, we considered its Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), noise level, long-term costs, maintenance, and filtration systems. We also noted how easy they are to use, as well as other useful features.

We explain our testing methodology here, along with other models we looked at that didn't make the cut and air-purifying techniques.

Here are the best air purifiers of 2021

• Best air purifier overall: Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier
• Best budget air purifier:Honeywell HPA300 True HEPA Air Purifier
• Best wall-mounted air purifier for large rooms:RabbitAir MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier
• Best smart air purifier:Coway Airmega 400 Smart Air Purifier
• Best ionizing air purifier:Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier

SEE ALSO: The best humidifiers you can buy

The best air purifier overall

The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier filters the air in medium-to-large rooms up to five times per hour, and it's so quiet that you won't notice it's operating.

Pros: Does an excellent job of removing dust, pollen, and smoke; indicator lets you know when to clean/replace filter; attractive appearance; easy to use

Cons: Filter replacement is expensive

The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier is designed to remove bacteria, mold, pet dander, dust, pollen, viruses, and other airborne pollutants. And, with a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 350 cubic feet per minute, it can clean the air in a 650-square foot room approximately four times in an hour. Plus, it's small and lightweight enough for you to effortlessly move it from one room to the next.

The Blue Pure 211+ has three-stage filtration: a fabric pre-filter, particle filter, and carbon filter. And, the unit tells you when it's time to clean or replace the filter. Replacing the filter can be quite pricey though it should be done every six months to ensure you continue to breathe properly filtered air. The Blue Pure 211+ is Energy Star-certified and has relatively low energy costs (using 30 to 60 watts).

Another nice feature is that it runs quietly, ranging from 31 decibels on its lowest setting and 56 on its highest — quiet enough to use in a bedroom.

Last year, the Blueair 211+ was sold out at many online retailers or were selling at marked-up prices due to the California wildfires and the pandemic. The purifiers are more available now, and we never suggest buying items that are marked up if you can help it.

The best budget air purifier

If you're looking for an air purifier that offers an impressive balance of price and performance, the Honeywell HPA300 True HEPA Air Purifier is your best bet.

Pros: Affordable; intuitive controls; easy to transport; does a very good job of removing smoke, dust, and pollen

Cons: Complaints of odors; might be too loud on high speed for some; expensive replacement filters

Honeywell is a trusted brand when it comes to air purifiers, and the HPA300 True HEPA Air Purifier is the company's most acclaimed model. In a crowded field of expensive models, this Honeywell unit does the best job of balancing performance with price.

It has an activated carbon pre-filter, which needs to be replaced every three months, and three HEPA filters, which need to be replaced every year. A year's supply of replacement filters will cost around $70, so the operating cost is quite high. An indicator light lets you know when it's time to change the filter.

The biggest drawbacks are the high costs for filter replacement and operation.

This was also previously available on Walmart via third-party sellers, which we don't recommend as shipping dates and prices are unreliable, and return policies are dubious at best. Thankfully, the item is available via Honeywell directly now.

The best wall-mounted air purifier for large rooms

The RabbitAir MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier can be mounted to a wall for an attractive and unobtrusive appearance.

Pros: Low filter and operating costs; silent operation; wall-mounted; outstanding at removing particulate matter; attractive appearance; five-year warranty

Cons: Expensive upfront cost

When installing an air purifier, you not only have to account for the space the unit takes up, but you also have to provide clearance around it to allow for airflow. When real estate is at a premium and appearances are important, the wall-mounted RabbitAir MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier addresses this.

The MinusA2 has a six-stage filter: pre-filter, medium filter, patented BioGS HEPA filter, charcoal-based activated carbon filter, optional negative ion generator, and a customized filter. The custom filter is unique in that you can choose to target toxins, odors, pet dander, or germs depending on your needs. The filter replacement kit is expensive, but you only need to budget for it every two years or so.

This is one of the larger air purifiers we've come across and can clean rooms up to 815 square feet. It's also a good option if your space is open concept — since there are fewer walls and doors, you can clean multiple rooms at once. 

This was previously only available on Amazon via a third-party seller, which we don't recommend, but it's now available on Amazon via the RabbitAir store directly. 

The best smart air purifier

The Coway Airmega 400 Smart Air Purifier barely makes any sound and adjusts the fan speed based on the air's pollution level.

Pros: Quiet; attractive design; energy-efficient; cleans the air in a 760-square-foot room in 15 minutes

Cons: Expensive filter contributes to the overall price 

The Airmega 400 Smart Air Purifier is Coway's top-of-the-line model. It features two sets of filters on each side of the unit: the easy-to-clean pre-filter and the Max2 filter, which is a combined True HEPA filter and activated charcoal. When it's time to change the filters, the indicator light turns on. The Airmega 400 can monitor the air quality and adjust the fan speed to quickly filter the air.

I tested this air purifier on the main floor of my home in a centrally-located spot. Although it's designed for rooms up to 760 square feet, it still did a great job in my open, 1,400-square-foot area, filtering the air in about 15 minutes.

On Smart mode, the fan speed ramps up when I get overzealous with my meat searing in the kitchen. After a year of use, I'm just now nearing the end of the original filter's lifespan. Replacing the filters is incredibly pricey, however. 

While some recommend the Wi-Fi-enabled version, the Airmega 400S, the only real difference between the 400S and 400 is the app-connectivity and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Other than that, performance is essentially the same.

This was previously out of stock at many online retailers but it's more readily available now.

Read our full review of the Coway Airmega 400

The best ionizing air purifier

In addition to three filters, the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier includes ionization, and the fan speed adjusts based on the air quality.

Pros: Automatically adjusts fan speed based on pollutants in the air; timer; four-stage filtration; eco mode

Cons: High power consumption, gets loud on high

Coway is one of the top names in air purifiers and the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier is its most popular model. It has an array of high-end features, including an air quality indicator, an auto mode that adjusts the fan speed to the air quality, and a shut-off timer.

The Mighty has a CADR of 246 cubic feet per minute for dust, 240 for pollen, and 233 for smoke, which makes it a good option for rooms of up to 460 square feet. The air goes through four filter stages: pre-filter, odor filter, true HEPA filter, and an ionizer. An ionizer electrically charges air molecules for purification; it can lower bacterial infections by removing particles in the air. But note that the effectiveness has been questioned and may emit ozone. Fortunately, any ozone exposure is minimal, and you can turn the ionizing feature off if you're concerned.

The Coway Mighty is one of three air purifiers I'm currently running in my home. My son has it in his bedroom so we can minimize our home's "teen odor index." We've had it for a year, and it does an outstanding job. And, I like how easy it is to clean the pre-filter: When the indicator light tells me it's time for cleaning, I just run a cordless handheld vacuum over it. So far, I haven't had to replace the filter, but it's pretty affordable and it lasts for a year.

If you're looking for a similar model, Coway has a newer version called the Airmega 200M. Based on our testing, the 200M is more powerful but is otherwise similar in performance to the Mighty. Depending on the color, you can sometimes find the newer Airmega 200M to be significantly cheaper than the Mighty. If you come across this, we suggest going with the cheaper of the two because the performance is so similar. We think you'll be satisfied with either.

The Mighty didn't experience discernable shipping delays or inventory issues previously and is readily available on Amazon.

What else we recommend

While researching this guide, we looked at numerous models and brands of air purifiers. Many of them just missed the cut, but are otherwise strong products in their own right. Here are five that almost made it:

Our testing methodology

When I test an air purifier, there are several things I look for such as the rate at which it cleans, noise level, and more. 

In addition to hands-on testing, I turn to other established reviewers, such as Wirecutter and Consumer Reports, for their assessments. Based on my and other experts' research and testing, and looking through the manufacturers' specs, I'm able to compare the key performance indicators of the top models.

Here are the main attributes when testing air purifiers:

CADR: Clean Air Delivery Rate is a rating developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers that is used to determine how many cubic feet of air an appliance can clean in a minute. If you multiply the CADR by 1.875, you can determine what room size the air purifier can clean four times in one hour, which is the recommended minimum number of air changes per hour (ACH). This calculation assumes an average ceiling height of 8 feet. Don't worry if this sounds confusing: We put it in easy-to-understand terms in our guide.

Noise level: A good air purifier will operate in the background without most people noticing it. Loud air purifiers are a deal-breaker. I use a sound meter positioned four feet from the air purifier and measure the decibels when the fan is at its lowest speed and highest speed. The average unit should register less than 40 decibels (like light rain) most of the time and about 60 decibels (normal conversation) on high.

Long-term costs: Air purifier filters don't last forever. They need to be replaced every 3 to 24 months, depending on the type of filter. When buying an air purifier, you need to factor in filter costs and operating expenses. Look for Energy Star-certified units if you want to save money on electricity.

Maintenance: If your filters are dirty, then they won't perform well. You need to clean your filters regularly. I prefer an air purifier that tells me when it's time for a cleaning. A cordless hand vacuum is all you need to clean most filters. You can clean some with water, but read the user's manual to make sure it's okay before doing this, and be sure to thoroughly dry the filter before using it again.

Filtration: You want a true HEPA or HEPA-type filter that can remove at least 99.97% of 0.3-micron airborne particles. The purifiers in our guide all meet this requirement. Additionally, some models have ionizers. Ionizers are controversial, but they reportedly produce negative ions that cling to air pollutants, which makes them easier to filter or vacuum up.  

What we're looking forward to testing

We'll continue to test our top picks to see how they hold up long-term. In the meantime, here are other air purifiers we're looking to test for future updates to this guide:

FrescheAir ($99.99): This is a portable air purifier and deodorizer, so it'd be interesting to see how the smaller size might affect the performance.

Rx Air 400 ($899.99): This is one of the most expensive air purifiers we've seen so it'd be great to see how the quality stacks up to others we've tested. It's also labeled as a Class II Medical Device, which other air purifiers are not.

Dyson Pure Cool TP04 Purifying Fan ($549.99): My colleagues have tested older generations of this air purifier but I have yet to test it personally. 

IQAir Atem Desk Personal HEPA Air Purifier ($399): While most air purifiers are meant for a whole room, this is meant for personal use at a desk or table. 

PURO²XYGEN P500 Air Purifier ($189.97): This is among the least expensive air purifiers we've seen so it'll be a good contender for our best budget pick. Like the RabbitAir, this has a six-stage filtration system, and it's effective in smaller spaces up to 500 square feet. It'll be interesting to see how its low price 

FAQs

Why do I need an air purifier?

Air purifiers can help clean indoor air of incense, cooking grease and smoke, and more — basically, it does what its name implies. For those with allergies, it can also help clear the air of pollen, pet dander, and more. 

According to the EPA, air purifiers outfitted with a HEPA filter are an effective way to remove particles from smoke and ash and can be particularly helpful in improving symptoms for individuals with asthma or COPD that are triggered by wildfire smoke.

What does HEPA mean?

HEPA stands for "high-efficiency particulate air."As defined by the EPA, HEPA filters are able to capture at least 99.97% of all airborne particles, including dust, mold, bacteria, and pollen, that are 0.3 microns in diameter.

Are all your picks true HEPA filters?

No. That said, we generally give true HEPA filter models preference in our picks. However, there are some "HEPA type" models that perform just as well or better than true HEPA filter models and have features that make them a better pick. We make a point of specifically saying if a model has a true HEPA filter. 

Can an air purifier prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus?

If you're considering an air purifier to help protect against the novel coronavirus, according to the EPA, a portable air cleaner by itself is not enough. However, when used along with other best practices recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention such as hand washing and social distancing, operating an air cleaner can be part of a plan to protect you and your household. 

Can HEPA or H13 purifiers capture viruses, including the coronavirus?

HEPA air purifiers help with the coronavirus but won't completely eliminate it, says Dr. Ravi Pandey, an internal medicine specialist in South Florida. He adds that the virus is smaller than what air purifiers generally capture. Most viruses, including the coronavirus, are 0.06 to 0.12 microns. HEPA filters are designed to filter out at least 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 microns in size.

However, while an air purifier alone isn't enough, it can be another tool for protection when used in conjunction with social distancing, hand washing, and mask wearing.

Where do you put an air purifier? 

You'll likely want an air purifier in your bedroom, living room, or kitchen — these are common areas that get a lot of traffic, and in the case of your kitchen, might help remove smoke from cooking.

How do you use an air purifier?

Most air purifiers just need to be plugged in to start working — there's usually no installation or setup involved (unless you're trying to connect to an app). 

Place an air purifier about a foot away from the wall and plug it into a nearby outlet. If your model has an indicator light, it might say that the air is very polluted so make necessary adjustments such as opening a window or vent.  

Once the air has cleared as indicated by the air purifier, keep it running to ensure continuous cleaning. Some of the models in our guide have timers so you can set it and go about your day. 

How often do you change the filter?

This depends on the manufacturer's guidelines — some suggest every three months while others say every two years.

Can plants help clean indoor air?

Think again before filling your house with plants. A 2019 article in The Atlantic cites research showing that indoor vegetation will not remove significant pollutants from the air.

How can you keep your air clean if you don't have an air purifier?

Intense wildfires that raged in California and Oregon in 2020 burned more than 3 million acres, displaced hundreds of thousands of people, and blanketed cities hundreds of miles away from the epicenters in ash and eerie orange skies. Between wildfires and the novel coronavirus, air quality is at the forefront of many minds. 

With so many people struggling with poor indoor air quality, we spoke with Dr. Junfeng Zhang, Ph.D., Professor of Global and Environmental Health at Duke University, for advice on what you can do if you don't have an air purifier.

Dr. Zhang is particularly concerned about how individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease, and other pre-existing diseases will cope with the poor air quality on the west coast, which is currently the worst in the world. "In the absence of a HEPA-based air purifier," Dr. Zhang said, "I'd suggest that people, especially those who are more susceptible/vulnerable, wear N95 face masks, even when staying indoors."

Unfortunately, true N95 masks are still hard to come by and should be reserved for medical workers but there are some more widely-available alternatives, such as KN95 masks, which can provide a decent level of filtration. The CDC has released respirator assessment results for some of these. There is a lot of misinformation and counterfeit products floating around, so be extra cautious in ensuring that you're buying from a trusted seller. 

If you are one of the lucky ones with an air purifier, remember to clean your filter thoroughly and often so it can do its job. But for an effective multi-pronged attack on pollutants, you'll want to test and improve your air. Here's how to test and improve indoor quality and a few steps you can take to clean your air more effectively:

• Clean regularly: Irritants can collect on surfaces and cause sneezing fits when disturbed. When you clean regularly — including dusting and vacuuming — you remove allergens and more. Check out our guides for the best vacuum cleaners, best robot vacuums, best budget vacuums, and best cordless vacuums.
• Ventilate: This could include installing ventilation fans in your bathroom or kitchen, or running (well-cleaned) ceiling fans. Freestanding fans can also help clean air circulating, here are the best ones. Be sure not to open windows or doors to prevent polluted air from coming inside.
• Store chemicals outside of your house: Abrasive cleaners and other harsh chemicals are often a source of irritation. Store them in your shed or garage and not where you will be exposed to them regularly.

Check out out other in-depth guides

• The best robot vacuum
• The best electric fan
• The best humidifiers
• The best tower fans
• The best dehumidifiers

• Finding a gift for your in-laws can be tricky, whether it's your first meeting or you've known them for years.
• We rounded up some of the best gift ideas for your in-laws, from small thank yous to grander gestures. 
• For more gift ideas, check out all of our gift guides here. 

Depending on your relationship, their tastes, and a host of other factors, getting a thoughtful gift for in-laws can be pretty high pressure. Whether you're meeting them for the first time or have known them for years and just want to show some appreciation, the right gift can go a long way. 

You don't have to go overboard, and there are plenty of unique gift ideas for in-laws that show you care about them. To ease your mind, we curated some great gifts sure to please any mother-in-law and father-in-law that cover a wide range of prices and tastes. Whether they're small gifts like a bath salts or bigger ones like kitchen appliances, what these all have in common is that your in-laws will love them.

Here are 33 of the best gifts for in-laws:

This list includes a Sponsored Product that has been suggested by Gravity Blankets. It also meets our editorial criteria in terms of quality and value.*

A coffee subscription box for trying new beans

Whole Bean Subscription, from $22/month, available at Blue Bottle Coffee

If they love coffee, they'll love getting the chance to try a bunch of new brews every month. Blue Bottle's beans are high quality, packaged at peak flavor, and come in a range of unique blends.

An elevated serving board for your in-laws next dinner party

Bamboo Lotus Serving Board, $48, available at Uncommon Goods

If your in-laws like to do a lot of hosting, this lotus-shaped serving tray will elevate their next dinner party. It has built-in spots for dips, crackers, cheese, veggies, and more.

A chic succulent

The Winona, $55, available at Urban Stems

Add some greenery to your in-laws' home with this elegant succulent that's easy to care for and comes in a chic, gold-beaded vase. If you plan to see your in-laws in person you can send it to yourself and bring it along with you, or you can have it sent directly to your in-laws' address for a sweet gift from afar. 

A bento box of floral candies for their sweet tooth

Sugarfina Floral Bento Box, $26, available at Bloomingdale's

A box of chocolates is well and good, but this candy bento box is much more unique. Anyone with a sweet tooth will love these fun flavors, which include gummies infused with rosé, dark chocolate sea salt caramels, and peach bellini gummies. The presentation will win you points too thanks to the beautiful blooms on the box.

A modern vase to brighten up any space

Barro Vases, $35-$45, available at West Elm

These cute vases look great in any space and come in subtle but fun yellows and blues to add a pop of color.  If you want to go that extra mile, you could put some florals or dried plants in it too.

A cozy weighted blanket

Gravity Blanket, $189, available at Gravity Blankets

Weighted blankets have been widely praised for their calming effects, and after this year, we could all use some extra tranquility. This cozy blanket is great for curling up with at night in bed or by the fire. 

*Sponsored by Gravity Blankets

A photo book of fond memories with your in-laws

Large Format Prints, available at Artifact Uprising, from $15

If you've spent holidays or vacations in the past with your in-laws, a sweet photo book to bring back good memories can be a great gift and way to show you appreciate family time with them. Artifact Uprising makes it easy with custom options at affordable prices. Or you can customize thoughtful cards for as little as $1 per card. You can also create a set of prints for $9.

An indoor garden for urban dwellers and herb lovers

Click & Grow Smart Garden, $99.95, available at Amazon

Anyone who spends time in the kitchen or garden knows how much fresh herbs can upgrade a dish. While not all climates or spaces can sustain a full herb garden, this little indoor gardening kit can, so they can top every last dish with their favorite fresh herbs.

A tin of delicious treats

Devils Food Chocolate Frosted Cookie Sampler, $29.99, available at Cheryl's Cookies 

Who doesn't love receiving a delicious cookie tin? This one from Cheryl's Cookies features indulgent chocolate cookies topped with fudge buttercream frosting and chocolate chips.

Playing cards with pups

Megan Carn Dog Playing Cards, $21.00, available at Megan Carn

Everything is better arguably with a dog, and such is the case with these playing cards. They're not only a fun conversation starter, but they encourage getting to know each other through a game night. 

A gift for the father-in-law who's a major baseball fan

Baseball Stadium Blueprints, $185, available at Uncommon Goods

A little bit of history, a little bit of architecture, and a whole lot of team spirit — whether you support their favorite team or not, they'll appreciate this thoughtful print that'll quickly find a home on one of their walls.

A painting of the only thing your in-laws love as much as their children

Custom Painterly Pet Portraits, from $250, available at Uncommon Goods

The only thing they might love as much as your partner is their pet. Show them you, too, appreciate their furry friend with a custom portrait of it. 

A cozy gift for your mother-in-law to keep her feet warm

Ballerina Herbal Warming Slippers, $48, available at Uncommon Goods

Pamper your mother-in-law with these fuzzy slippers featuring removable insoles filled with aromatic lavender buds and thermally conductive flax seeds. In the winter she can heat them up in the microwave for extra warmth, and in the summer she can throw them in the fridge for a refreshing cool down.

A cocktail bitters set mixologists will love

Cocktail Bitters Set, $35, available at Uncommon Goods

Turn their living room into a cocktail bar with this set of bitters. With flavors like smoked chili and ginger lemon, they can get creative with some new drinks or spice up the classics.

A pizza maker for home cooks and pizza aficionados

Breville Crispy Crust Pizza Maker, $149.95, available at Williams Sonoma

Some might call this one life-changing. If they love cooking together, gift them a countertop pizza maker so they can enjoy homemade pies with the toppings of their choice in less than 10 minutes. 

A cozy and chic blanket

Striped Alpaca Wool-Blend Throw Blanket, $159, available at Overland

Not only does is this blanket a lovely piece of home decor since it looks elegant draped over a couch or at the foot of the bed, but it's also soft and warm. Your in-laws will surely appreciate you when they snuggle up in this wide throw during their next at-home movie night.

A touch lamp for in-laws who live far away

Long Distance Touch Lamp, from $85, available at Uncommon Goods

If your in-laws live far away, they'll really appreciate this touch lamp. Keep one in your home and one in theirs, and whenever you tap it, their lamp will light up too. It's a cute way to communicate and let them know you're thinking of them every now and then.

A decanter and matching glasses with a personal touch

Etched Windowpane Decanter and Glasses, $139, available at Mark and Graham

Show them you mean business with this sophisticated decanter and set of four double old fashioned glasses. You can even add a monogram if you're looking for a more personal touch.

A fun way to show off their cork collection

State Map Wine Cork Trap, $35, available at Uncommon Goods

For the bunch with a bunch of state pride, give them a fun way to use their leftover wine corks and show off their favorite place. This birch-wood display makes a nice piece of wall art that's sure to start a conversation. 

A monthly sampling of some of the tastiest products from around the country

Best of Mouth Subscription, starting at $54/month, available at Mouth

Foodies will love the chance to test small-batch, locally made products from around the country. Mouth sources and curates subscription boxes of their favorites, which they'll receive each month.

A set of passport holders for globetrotters

Personalized Passport Cover, $29.74 (for two), available at Etsy

Frequent travelers should have a durable passport cover. This one also has extra pockets for money, ID cards, and credit cards. The matching styles, names, and cute quote are an added bonus. If you don't like the style of this one, there are plenty more to choose from.

A wool throw they’ll want to wrap up in on chilly days

Washable Wool Throw, $169, available at L.L. Bean

Winter days spent with family call for cozy blankets made for snuggling. This one is just right and easily washable — just in case there are any unexpected eggnog spills.

An undeniably classy marble salt cellar

RSVP Marble Swivel Salt Cellar, from $30.93, available at Amazon

If you want to make a statement with something small, go for this elegant salt cellar. It makes seasoning dishes easier, and the dual compartments provide a place for both fine and coarsely ground salt. Our editor swears by this one for her own kitchen.

A set of products to help them get some much-needed rest

CALM Bath Salts, $18, available at Herbivore

Parents always deserve some R&R. Bring them one step closer with this set of bath salts infused with ylang-ylang and vanilla.

A salt block that'll up their grilling game

Himalayan Salt Plate, $9.83, available at Wayfair

This is more than just a pretty pink plate, it's actually a block of Himalayan salt. Not only can it be used to serve food, but it can actually be used to cook food too. Cooking and serving with a salt slab will up the ante on plenty of their family-favorite meals.

A trio of unique condiments to spice up their meals

Bushwick Kitchen Threes Knees Trio, $34.99, available at Bushwick Kitchen

Adventurous eaters and hot sauce lovers will definitely enjoy using this trio of spicy condiments. A spicy honey, spicy maple, and gochujang sriracha give them all sorts of new ways to spice up their favorite foods. 

A smart speaker to help them get started on a smart home

Google Nest Mini, $49.99, available at Best Buy

If your in-laws are not really the techie types, start them out with this small smart speaker. Nest Mini is a subtle introduction to smart technology — plus they'll get a kick out of communicating with Google Assistant. 

A charging hub so they don’t have to fight for the open outlet

elago 3-in-1 Charging Hub, from $25.99, available at Amazon

If they're always fighting for the last free outlet to charge their Apple products, or if they're both big Apple fans, this hub will charge all their devices at once.

A new cookbook to add to their repertoire

"Cook Like a Pro" by Ina Garten, $17.46, available at Amazon

Ina Garten's latest release is a great addition to any home chef's cookbook collection. They'll learn plenty of new recipes and cooking techniques — and you might even get to taste the fruits of their labor one day. 

A nice candle with a reusable vessel

Lafco Library Candle, $65, available at Bluemercury

A nice candle is always a welcomed gift. These ones are made to embody the scents of common places, including rooms in the house. The best part of these candles, though, is that they'll be able to reuse the hand-blown glass vessel once the candle has burned down. All they have to do is put it in the freezer when the wax runs down, pop it out with a knife, and run it through the dishwasher. Our editor uses hers for everything from cotton swabs to serving snacks.

An Airbnb gift card for in-laws who love to travel

Airbnb Gift Card, $100 - $500, available at Zola

A tangible gift is great, but so is the gift of an unforgettable experience. For the jet-setting duo, bring them one step closer to their next vacation (as soon as vacations are safe again) with an Airbnb gift card so they can explore someplace new together. You can find more hotel and Airbnb gift card options here.

A leather catchall for their keys

Rustic Leather Catchall Tray, from $34.99, available at Mark & Graham

Your in-laws will love this chic catchall tray for staying organized. Place on a desk, nightstand, or entryway table to hold keys, wallets, headphones, and more. You can even get it monogrammed for an extra personal touch. Choose from small, medium, large, or opt for a set of all three.

A coffee table book for book lovers

"Bibliophile: An Illustrated Miscellany," available at Amazon, $18.97

If your in-laws love to read, they'll enjoy this book from illustrator Jane Mount, who is known for the colorful book spines of notable works. Inside, they'll find tours of the world's best bookstores, quizzes to test book knowledge, and samplings of famous fictional meals — all illustrated in Mount's fun and whimsical style. You can find more coffee table books for gifting here.

• It's typical to prioritize facial moisturizers, but body creams are just as important.
• A good body moisturizer will replenish, soothe, and protect your skin without being too sticky.
• The Kiehl's Crème de Corps is our favorite  — a rich cream that will instantly give you soft skin.

Many of us neglect our skin from the neck down but moisturizing our limbs is equally as important  — especially when you get out of the shower. As your skin dries, the water evaporates off the top layer, which can sap moisture from your epidermis. Smoothing on moisturizer keeps your skin feeling soft and hydrated instead of tight and itchy. This is doubly true for folks with skin ailments like eczema and psoriasis. Proper hydration can help you avoid painful flare-ups, making a body moisturizer a must-have in your beauty arsenal. 

There are all sorts of body moisturizers out there — from balms to creams to lotions — and the one you choose depends on your skin type and preference. To save you time and effort finding the right one for you, we've rounded up the best ones, some with self-tanning properties and others boasting antioxidants for skin-boosting benefits. If you have a specific skin condition, however, it's a good idea to check in with your dermatologist before starting any new project regimen, just to make there won't be any adverse effects. 

Here are the best body moisturizers in 2021:

• Best body moisturizer overall: Kiehl's Crème de Corps
• Best drugstore body moisturizer: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion
• Best body moisturizer to splurge on: Sol de Janeiro's Brazilian Bum Bum Cream
• Best body moisturizer with antioxidants: Nécessaire Body Lotion
• Best self-tanning body moisturizer: Jergens Natural Glow +Firming Daily Moisturizer

The best body moisturizer overall

Kiehl's Crème de Corps is our top body moisturizer overall because it gives you soft, smooth, and healthy-looking skin with immediate results.

Pros: Good for normal, dry, or sensitive skin; no added synthetic fragrance 

Cons: Some may find it a bit greasy

Kiehl's Crème de Corps is a lifesaver that targets dryness, dullness, and uneven skin texture, giving you brighter-looking skin. It nourishes, locks in moisture for hydration, and leaves your limbs feeling soft and smooth. 

The rich body lotion is packed with a powerful blend of ingredients, including antioxidant-packed beta-carotene, skin-softening cocoa butter, and moisture-replenishing olive-derived squalane. The beta-carotene is also what gives the lotion its slightly orange tint.

In testing, I found Kiehl's Crème de Corps had a whipped butter-like texture and a pleasant, subtle fragrance that stems from the ingredients. The body lotion absorbed quickly leaving it looking instantly smoother. However, despite claiming to be non-greasy, it did feel a little greasy on my skin, possibly due to the cocoa butter and oils like olive and avocado.

The best drugstore body moisturizer

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion is an award-winning drugstore moisturizer that hydrates without leaving behind a greasy feeling — and without the big price tag too.

Pros: Affordable, fragrance-free, non-greasy, non-comedogenic, soothing oatmeal is good for eczema and itchy skin, great for all skin types including sensitive, oily, and dry skin

Cons: Left behind some residue on skin

Designed to absorb quickly and last 24 hours, this body moisturizer's gentle formula promises to leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy-looking

Aveeno's Daily Moisturizing Lotion works wonders for dry skin and is ideal for daily use. It contains natural ingredients like oatmeal to relieve dry, itchy skin, while emollients soften dry areas.

In testing, Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion was the perfect consistency — not too thick or too thin. It didn't irritate my sensitive skin and made it look smooth, though it left a slight residue. I appreciate its pump dispenser (for extra convenience), and the fact its fragrance is subtle.

The best body moisturizer to splurge on

The Sol de Janeiro's Brazilian Bum Bum Cream has a velvety consistency that doesn't leave a residue — and it smells like a tropical island.

Pros: Fast-absorbing, hydrating, delicious smell, antioxidant-packed ingredients, cruelty-free, paraben-free

Cons: The scent can be a little strong, especially if you use a lot of product

Sol de Janeiro's Brazilian Bum Bum Cream product smell like coconut trees and sandy beaches. Its consistency is super smooth and glides seamlessly over the skin. It's especially great for dry areas and, though I focus the product on my upper thighs during the summertime, it's still a go-to in colder months when I hop out of the shower.

It's also fast-absorbing. In fact, your skin will feel instantly hydrated the second you swipe it on. Though the scent may be too strong for some, I only noticed an extra potent scent if I apply more product than average.

At $45, this body butter is a bit of a splurge. But if you want to cut costs a bit, the brand has a mini version for $20. — Victoria Giardina, buying guides fellow

The best with antioxidants

For instant hydration and long-term protection, Nécessaire Body Lotion is well, necessary.

Pros: Formulated with vitamins A, C, and E; fast-absorbing, paraben-free

Cons: May be greasy if much product is used

Necessaire's Body Lotion is a top-tier product for including popular skin-care ingredients in its body-care products. This ensures the skin on your arms and legs is just as hydrated, healthy, and nourished as the skin on your face.

This minimalist tube is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, and omega fatty acids 3, 6, and 9 for an added, antioxidant-filled boost. There's even niacinamide — an ingredient more commonly found in serums— to help soothe irritated skin and smooth out fine lines. The formula still manages to absorb quickly and doesn't leave much greasy residue, though that depends on how much you pile on.

The best for self-tanning

For hydrated, firmer skin, and a natural-looking glow, Jergens Natural Glow +Firming Daily Moisturizer is our top pick.

Pros: Affordable, gradual and natural color, bearable smell for a self-tanner

Cons: Only comes in two shades

Not only does Jergens Natural Glow +Firming Daily Moisturizer target dry skin, but it also provides a gentle-looking tan and helps reduce the appearance of cellulite in seven days.

This multipurpose moisturizer is formulated with vitamin E, collagen, elastin, and ginseng to help hydrate, firm, tighten, and improve the elasticity of your skin. What's more, its color-enhancing complex subtly yet gradually deepens your skin tone, so you don't need to worry about looking like an Oompa Loompa.  

It comes in two shades (fair to medium and medium to dark) and leaves behind uniform color with a streak-free finish. For best results, exfoliate first before applying all over your body, but do so sparingly on knees, elbows, and ankles. Wait a few minutes for the lotion to dry before dressing and be sure to wash your hands — unless you want them to be extra tan.

This is my go-to body moisturizer for parties, weddings, or whenever I want to take my fair skin a hue tanner. It does the job and always results in a smooth finish in less than a day.  And, unlike many self-tanning products, the smell is bearable thanks to odor-reducing technology.

Check out our other buying guides

The 11 best skincare products we tried in 2020

23 skincare products with near-perfect Amazon reviews

The best face moisturizers for every skin type

The best face masks for skincare

The best face cream for dry skin

• Garden hoses made from cheap, flimsy materials can make even the simplest watering tasks a nightmare.
• Dramm's ColorStorm Garden Hose is made from heavy-duty rubber, doesn't kink, and stood out as the most efficient, easy-to-use hose in all our tests. 
• See also: The best garden hose nozzles

A garden hose is one of those do-it-all items that everyone should have in their home. Beyond watering plants, you can use it to wash your car, fill a large bucket, or turn your backyard into a makeshift water park on a hot day. 

If you want a hose you can rely on, durable construction is key. "The most important features to consider when choosing a hose are material (rubber, vinyl, or polyurethane), the thickness of the hose (two-ply hoses are the least strong and six-ply are the strongest), and lastly the couplings, also known as fittings, and the material they are made of (metal or plastic)," said John Jors, a Florida Master Gardener and volunteer groundskeeper at the 35-acre Bonnet House Museum and Gardens. 

Jors told us he personally prefers a high-quality rubber hose: "If properly stored, preferably on a reel, and drained after every use, it should last a very long time and make for happy gardening." 

After testing the ease of use, durability, and efficiency of seven hoses, we narrowed the group down to the best four. Learn more about our testing methodology here. And for more guidance on how to shop for and take care of your garden hose, read our FAQs section. 

Here are the best garden hoses in 2021 

• Best overall: Dramm ColorStorm Garden Hose
• Best budget: Continental Black Water Hose
• Best expandable: TheFitLife Expandable Garden Hose
• Best steel: Tardigrade Steel Hose

SEE ALSO: The best rakes you can buy

The best garden hose overall

Despite its heavy weight, the rugged ColorStorm Garden Hose provides an efficient and surprisingly smooth watering experience. Its thick rubber body doesn't bend or kink, while its metal fittings can withstand rough handling. 

Pros: Thick and durable rubber construction, doesn't kink, fast water flow, available in eye-catching colors

Cons: Hose body shows dust and dirt easily, heavy 

The Dramm ColorStorm Garden Hose was the clear winner in all of our tests. Although it was the heaviest of all the hoses we tried, it excelled in other areas, from ease of use to kink resistance to flow rate. 

Both material and design make it a high-performing, reliable hose. It's made from thick rubber and has angled rather than smooth sides, which prevent it from kinking and bending. The rubber bounces back easily no matter how you twist it, bend it, or step on it, so all you really have to focus on while watering is dragging the hose in the right direction. After multiple rounds of being slammed against concrete and thrown about, the nickel-plated brass fittings held up well, with no warping or dents. 

It fit very securely and tightly on my water connection, and it had the fastest water flow of all the hose contenders: 10.91 gallons per minute. That makes it especially valuable for tasks like filling up a pool or large bucket. If you have a lot of ground to water, the Dramm hose will make the chore go by quickly. 

While it's more expensive than the average hose, the investment is well worth it. Watering your garden or washing your car becomes significantly more pleasant, and you won't have to replace it because of hose body damage or frequent kinking. On top of that, it comes in bright colors that make backyard chores a little more fun. 

The best garden hose on a budget

In a sea of flimsy hoses, the rubber, kink-free Continental Water Hose stands out for its durability, reliability, and ease of use.

Pros: Thick and durable rubber construction, doesn't kink

Cons: Hose body shows dust and dirt easily, heavy, slower flow rate than the Dramm 

It's hard to find a cheap hose that doesn't compromise some feature, be it durability, kink resistance, or weather resistance. For the most part, what you pay for is what you get in the hose department. 

There is one exception: the Continental hose. It's not dirt-cheap, but it is more affordable than all of our other picks, and it performs very well. 

The hose is heavy, rugged, and durable. It has a thick rubber body and strong solid brass fittings that held up to repeated attacks against concrete. Overall, it provides a smooth and relatively easy watering experience because it fits tightly over the water connection and doesn't kink or bend. The most difficult part is dragging around the 12 pounds of weight. 

Its flow rate is pretty good — 8.57 gallons per minute — which is a little slower than our top pick, the Dramm hose. While I'd say the two hoses are pretty comparable, the Continental is slightly thicker and less efficient, and it doesn't come in multiple colors (just black). That being said, these flaws aren't insurmountable, and I was still satisfied with this budget option. 

The best expandable garden hose

If space is at a premium, you should consider TheFitLife's flexible multifunctional hose, which expands to three times its length when water is flowing through but shrinks back down for compact storage. 

Pros: Light, flexible, expandable, different water flows available with the turn of a valve, doesn't kink

Cons: Slow water flow, exterior fabric may fray on rocky terrain

If you don't like dealing with long and unwieldy hoses or you simply don't have the storage space, TheFitLife's Expandable Garden Hose offers a creative solution. It extends quickly to its full 50-foot length once you turn your water on, and it retracts just as quickly once the water is off. 

Unlike its traditional rubber counterpart, this fabric-covered hose is soft, lightweight, and flexible. It's also impossible to kink no matter how you twist or bend the hose thanks to its unique construction of a latex interior and polyester fabric exterior.  

Conveniently, the hose has a brass valve at the end that lets you toggle between different water flow options or stop the flow completely so you don't waste water as you carry your hose around. Turn the valve and you'll get a light spray, medium spray, or high-pressure concentration. 

The way the hose expands and contracts in your hand when you switch flow options takes some getting used to and may cause a bit of discomfort at first. Be mindful not to drag the hose too far from the water connection when you use the valve, otherwise you'll be pulled back if the hose contracts. 

And while the fabric exterior is comfortable to hold and stretches to accommodate for expansion, it runs the risk of snagging on sharp or rocky surfaces. If you're planning to use the hose on rocky terrain, take extra care. 

All in all, however, it's still a smart and effective way to get all your watering tasks done without compromising space. 

The hose comes with a spray nozzle with eight watering patterns, but since we're focusing on pure hose performance, we did not use it.

The best steel garden hose

There's no need to be delicate with the Tardigrade Steel Hose. It's best for watering environments where sharp or abrasive objects are involved, and it won't get damaged if you leave it out in the sun.

Pros: Highly durable, doesn't kink, weather-resistant

Cons: Steel body design may pinch fingers

If you need complete and utter confidence that nothing will puncture or break your hose, get one made out of steel. The Tardigrade hose is heavy-duty, with none of the weight or thickness of a rubber hose. 

I actively and aggressively tried to break it by dragging it across different terrains and jumping on it, but my efforts were futile. Rest assured that common concerns like pets, inclement weather, and thorny, rocky landscapes are no match. 

It's thinner and denser than a traditional rubber hose, but I found it relatively easy to maneuver around my backyard, since it didn't twist and tangle. The steel body had a nice cool feeling as the water ran through, which also improved my watering experience. Its flow rate, while not as fast as those of the rubber options I tested, was decent at 7.5 gallons per minute. 

Another pro to consider: the steel construction is UV-resistant, so you can leave the hose outside and it won't get damaged by the sun and crack. 

For flexibility's sake, the body consists of many rings of stainless steel, which may pinch your fingers as you maneuver the hose. I recommend wearing gloves as a precaution.

What else we tested

What we don't recommend and why 

• Aterod Expandable Garden Hose: Aterod also a valve switch, which is made from metal (versus TheFitLife's, which is plastic). However, the water connection leaked significantly, even when the hose was tightly attached. The hose expansions and contractions were also more extreme than TheFitLife's, making it difficult and inconvenient to switch among spray options. 
• Gilmour Medium Duty Water Hose: This hose is prone to kinks, and I found myself constantly readjusting and finagling the hose as I used it. Water did not travel smoothly through it and it seemed resistant to movements. Further, it didn't fit well on my water connection and leaked a lot. 
• Gilmour AquaArmor Lightweight Hose: The lightweight, durable alternative to the Medium Duty Hose above was a lot easier to use and has a flatter body, which seems to reduce kinks. However, the thin and light construction was also its downfall: it was difficult to keep the hose upright and pointed in the direction I wanted.

What we're testing next

• Flexzilla Garden Hose: This hybrid polymer hose is very popular and looks to be lightweight and flexible. It's also water drinking-safe. Customer reviews, however, are mixed, with common complaints about kinking. We'll see how the hose fares in our tests. 
• Zero-G Garden Hose: Another lightweight option, the Zero-G hose is flat and flexible. Though it can kink from time to time, the kinks are apparently easy to shake out as you use the hose.

Methodology

We put all seven hoses through these same four tests: 

Ease of use: How easy was it to move the hose around, roll it up, and water plants? We rated the difficulty on a scale of 1-5, with 1 being "very easy, barely broke a sweat" and 5 being "very difficult, required significant effort." 

Durability: We dragged each hose 50 feet across both concrete and grass and hit the fittings on the ground at different angles 50 times. Then we noted any abrasion and other durability issues with the hose body and the fitting. 

Kink resistance: We bent each hose in a tight "U" shape and stepped on each hose — repeating this sequence five times — to see how it snapped back or remained bent. 

Flow rate: We timed how long it took for the hose to fill a two-gallon bucket and recorded the flow rate in gallons per minute. 

Garden hoses FAQs

What size hose should you buy? 

It depends on the size of your lawn and proximity to your water connection. Coulter Lewis, founder of lawn care subscription startup Sunday, said you should consider the following: "Where are your water hook ups? Can you reach most of your lawn from one spigot? Or can you change spigots to reach different parts of the lawn?" 

"If your lawn is 500-2,000 square feet, look for a hose that's 50 feet long. If your lawn is 2,000-5,000 square feet, look for a hose that's more than 75 feet. For more flexibility, consider buying two shorter hoses or an additional short extension hose to combine when needed," he advised. 

For this guide, we focused on 50-foot hoses. They are also available in shorter and longer lengths. 

What's the best material for a garden hose? 

The most common constructions for the hose body are rubber, polyurethane, and vinyl. Jors said, "Rubber tends to be more flexible, but [it's] also the heaviest. That being said, it's less susceptible to cuts and will stand up to rocky landscapes."

If you want something that's lighter, more kink-resistant, and safe for drinking water, polyurethane and other hybrid composite materials are best. Vinyl is the cheapest but also the most prone to kinking. 

As for the fitting — the part that connects your hose to the water source or another hose — you should look for a metal construction. "Faceted brass, nickel-plated, or stainless steel is always recommended. Plastic couplings, although less expensive, do not stand up to heavy-duty use and tend to crack," said Jors. 

How do you reduce and get rid of kinks in your hose? 

It's important to get a strong and flexible hose to reduce the chance of kinking. Beyond looking for rubber or polyurethane, you should also use a hose reel to reel the hose in and out in a controlled fashion, recommends Jors.  

What's the best way to store and extend the longevity of your hose?

"Proper storage of your garden hose will extend its life," said Jors. "I prefer a hose hanger, or in particular a hose reel. It's important when not in use to keep the hose off the ground, and a hose hanger or hose reel will accomplish this."

Also, make sure to drain your hose after each use and before storage. Both hot and frozen water will damage your hose. 

Check out our other backyard and gardening guides

• The best garden hose nozzles
• The best gardening and landscaping tools
• The best gardening gloves
• The best gardening shovel
• The best electric lawn mower

• An under-desk treadmill allows you to combine exercise and work.
• Our top pick is the Goyouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Treadmill for its quality and built-in table.
• We also found space-saving options, high-tech treadmills, low-impact ellipticals, and more.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Under-desk treadmills are simple, yet effective fitness and wellness tools to combat the number of hours clocked up sitting at your desk. Whether it's to keep your joints nimble or increase your step count, these compact machines allow you to maintain a steady walking speed over prolonged periods. With a diversity of treadmills on the market, from simple walking options to those with desirable added features like a work desk or Bluetooth capabilities, there's an option to suit a wide range of needs and preferences.

Here are the best under-desk treadmills

• Best overall: Goyouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Treadmill 
• Best for saving space: RHYTHM FUN Under Desk Treadmill
• Best for running: Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
• Best elliptical: Cubii Pro Seated Under Desk Elliptical
• Best for added features: OppsDecor Under Desk Treadmill
• Best splurge: InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill 

The best overall

The Goyouth 2 in 1 Walking Treadmill is a powerful and transportable machine at a relatively low cost.

What we like: Shock absorbing, ultra-quiet motor, has a safety key

This compact and lightweight treadmill (64 pounds) is affixed with flexible rollers to easily move from place to place. Designed to absorb shock, the Goyouth 2 in 1 Treadmill is safe to use for both walking and running purposes, with speeds ranging from 0.5 to six miles per hour. Featuring an LED screen displaying time, speeds, calories burned, distance, and steps, the machine also features a remote control to adjust your speed and Bluetooth capability so you can play music through your phone. 

The best for saving space

A small, compact, yet sturdy treadmill, the RHYTHM Fun Treadmill is the best for saving on space.

What we like: Easy to store saving, no assembly required, track stats on an app

Lightweight and easy to maneuver on wheels, the treadmill offers a space-saving solution at just over two inches thick and weighing 64 pounds. The seven-level elastic running platform features anti-skid and shockproof protection, and increases up to 3.7 miles per hour for a good walking pace. The treadmill also comes with a smart remote for speed control to turn on and off, as well as a workout app for tracking your speed, time, mileage, and calories on your phone.

The best for running

The Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill transforms from an under-desk walking machine to a sturdy running treadmill.

What we like: Wide speed range, ultra-quiet motor, easy to fold and move

Featuring two sports modes, the treadmill's under-desk option maintains a walking pace of up to four miles per hour and reaches speeds of up to 12 miles per hour with the rails up. The rails also include a phone holder and LED screen. Whilst the quiet motor keeps noise at a minimum, the non-slip, shock-absorbing running belt features both sound insulation and a high-strength support layer to protect the joints when running at higher speeds. Along with a separate remote control and emergency safety key, the treadmill has Bluetooth capabilities for a hands-free experience.

The best elliptical

The Cubii Pro is an easy-to-use elliptical that allows you to log some quality cardio no matter if you're sitting down for lunch or powering through a backlog of emails.

What we like: Compact, low-impact, quiet, easy to use anywhere

For those that prefer a low-impact way to exercise, the elliptical-style Cubii Pro offers a compact way to get reps in while you work. Simply place the machine under your desk (or even use it from the couch) and pedal for as long as you wish. The Cubii is quiet enough that you can use it during work calls or while listening to background music. It features eight levels of resistance so you can tailor your workout to your needs, and it even syncs with your phone so you can track your goals and progress.

The best for added features

Featuring an app, Bluetooth, and watch-style remote control, the OppsDecor treadmill is for the tech-savvy. 

What we like: Wide running belt, option of colors, watch-style remote

The OppsDecor Under Desk Treadmill is a sleek walking or running machine with upgraded tech features. Alongside a Bluetooth speaker and app (on IOS and Android) to track your workout, the treadmill comes with a remote control watch to adjust between speeds, pause or stop the treadmill, and a safety key to shut-off in an emergency. This treadmill is available in a variety of colors, features a premium multi-layer running belt for maximum protection. It can be used with the arms folded in as an under-desk treadmill with a speed of up to four miles per hour, or as a more standard running machine with speeds up to 12 miles per hour.

The best splurge

The InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill is designed for users to walk the full width of their desk.

What we like: Design to reduce noise, integrated app, engineered for safety

With a 39-inch lateral walking belt, the InMovement UnSit treadmill takes up less lateral space in the home office. The treadmill has a powerful 2.75 horsepower motor for keeping noise to a minimum and comes with an integrated app to track your metrics, measure how long you've been standing, and integrate data to Bluetooth tracking devices. It also has a one-touch dial to control speed (up to two miles per hour). Built to provide maximum safety, the machine automatically shuts off immediately after stepping off. 

• The ideal kids snow boot will encourage longer outdoor play by keeping feet warm and dry, without being too heavy to move in.
• When shopping for kids' snow boots, look for a pair that is waterproof, insulated, flexible, and easy to put on.
• The Baffin Mustang were the warmest winter boots we tested, and they are still light and flexible enough for play.

A good pair of snow boots is essential to winter outdoor play, but boots are some of the trickiest types of footwear to buy for children.

"If your child's feet are cold, chances are, the whole child will be cold," said Linda McGurk, author of "No Such Thing as Bad Weather.""Snow boots are an essential part of your child's winter wardrobe." However, finding snow boots that are lightweight, flexible, and easy to move around in yet warm and dry can be a challenge. Insulation and waterproofing tend to have the opposite effect, and a heavy boot can discourage active play.

Shoes that are stiff from too much insulation can interfere with proper foot development. "Children are born with flat feet, with a fat pad on the bottom of their feet," explained Dara Jones, a pediatric physiatrist at New York's Hospital for Special Surgery. "The foot arch doesn't develop until around age 6 or 7 as the foot muscles become stronger. The only way to develop that [arch] is by feeling and gripping the ground under them. It's important [that shoes] support and not interfere with this process."

To find that balance between weather-ready and developmentally friendly, I tested 12 pairs of kids' snow boots over four months, from traditional insulated boots to athletic fit snow boots to all-weather boots. In addition to Jones and McGurk, I consulted with the founder of 1000 Hours Outside and parents participating in the challenge. I also chatted with Richard Louv, author of "Last Child in the Woods," and dug into research from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

I searched for boots with both physiatrist-recommended flexibility and outdoor expert-recommended warmth for everything from sledding to winter hikes with my three children. You can read more about how to choose and size snow boots for kids at the end of this guide, as well as more details on how each boot was tested.

Here are the best kids' snow boots:

• Best kids' snow boots overall: Baffin Mustang
• Best kids' athletic snow boots: Keen Hoodoo III
• Best kids' all-weather boots: Bogs Classic
• Best snow boots for toddlers: See Kai Run Gilman
• Best lightweight kids' snow boots: Keen Lumi II
  

The best kids' snow boots overall

From the warm, cushy inside to the thick tread on the outside, the waterproof Baffin Mustang is the ideal boot for all day snow play.

Pros: Very warm, waterproof, flexible sole and foam-like inner sole, excellent tread pattern, easy to put on

Cons: Expensive, not as light as an athletic-fit snow boot

The Baffin Mustang is everything a traditional snow boot should be, from the warm and cushy insulation to the thick traction treads on the flexible sole. My 8-year-old wore these shoes on a 1.5-mile winter hike in 30-degree weather, and, instead of complaining he was cold after more than two hours, he said he wanted to stay all day.

With an insulated, moisture-wicking removable liner, the Mustang was both warm and dry. The boot is rated to -40 degrees F, and while those rankings are just a guideline that varies based on things from activity level to the individual's metabolism, the boots were also warmer than the others in our review. The boots also passed our water test, where they were dunked in 5 inches of water and held there for at least 10 seconds.

The lining has other benefits. The bottom is quite cushy, and, while I could only fit my hand in there, feels like it would be comfortable for walking. My son had a similar "wow" reaction when he first pulled them on. A foam-like padding is helpful for developing feet, according to Jones. "The inner sole should be soft and generally foam like — it doesn't have to have an arch in it," she said.

While the sole isn't the most flexible among the ones we tested, the boots do have a little bit of flex to them. My son was still able to run in them. The Mustangs also have nice deep treads that kept him from slipping on our winter hike that included plenty of ice.

Although the Baffin Mustangs are the warmest boots we tested, we also tried a few excellent boots that had more flexibility and were lighter weight. Those boots are warm enough for snow sports and extended play in the cold, but they may not be the best option for areas with milder winters or kids who need the lightest, most flexible shoe. The Mustangs are also pricey, an expense that's harder to justify for kids who will outgrow them in a single season.

The best athletic snow boots

The Keen Hoodoo III fits more like a tennis shoe than a snow boot, and it keeps out the snow and cold.

Pros: Flexible, lightweight, waterproof, easy to run in, warm 

Cons: Tougher to put on, shorter boot height 

Traditional snow boots tend to be heavy and clunky, encouraging lots of stomping and shuffling rather than the typical gait. The Keen Hoodoo III, however, fits and feels like a normal shoe with a longer boot shaft on top, but with good insulation and waterproofing. These were the most flexible kid snow boots that I tested, and flexibility is ideal for proper foot development.

The toe flexes easily, and the rubber sole extends to cover the toe, a feature called a bump toe that prevents wear. The bottom has a good amount of tread to them too — not as deep as the Baffins, but better than the Bogs Classics. Waterproof leather covers most of the boot, with textured fabric on the back of the calf and the tongue that add a pop of color.

Unlike traditional snow boots, the Hoodoo III boots are very lightweight. My daughter could run, jump, and climb while wearing them, all activities that shouldn't have to stop just because there's snow on the ground.

The mid-weight insulation isn't as warm as the Baffins, a tradeoff for the weight and flexibility. The boots are rated to -25 degrees. My daughter didn't complain about cold feet after sledding in temperatures in the upper 20s. She did get cold sledding in 14-degree weather with these boots and only cotton socks. For temperatures less than 20 degrees, these boots are best paired with good wool socks.

There are a few features of traditionally designed snow boots that are missing. The shaft is shorter, roughly 6 inches from the ground in my daughter's little kids size 11, so kids will need to pair these with snow pants for deeper snow.

The boot passed our waterproof tests, but only up to about 4 inches of water, where the tongue begins to open up without a seal. The boots were also a little trickier to put on than the slip-ons, but since they close with a bungee and Velcro instead of ties, she could still manage with a little extra time. The flexibility and tennis shoe-like fit, however, are worthwhile trade-offs for many.

The best all-weather boots

From sledding to splashing in spring puddles, the waterproof Bogs Classic boots will get kids through nearly every season.

Pros: Flexible, easy to put on, waterproof, suitable for multiple seasons

Cons: A little heavy, not was warm as some others, smaller tread that wears faster

Snow boots only get a few months of wear, but the Bogs Classic boots are suitable for both rain and snow. That makes them ideal for every season except summer (when the lightweight insulation would be too warm) and means parents only have to buy one pair of boots.

Bogs Classics are rubber with a neoprene upper. That same neoprene is used in the boot's insulation, creating a warmth rating of -30 degrees. While the Baffin Mustangs were much warmer and the budget Cat and Jack boots from Target slightly warmer, my son didn't complain of cold toes. Bogs were the most recommended boots when we asked the parents of 1000 Hours Outside, and some Alaskan parents even recommended them.

As both a rain and snow boot, these are excellent for wearing in slush and puddles. The boots didn't leak at all when submerged in 5 inches of water, not even the neoprene upper. Both the tread and shaft were flexible enough and easy to play in, though not as mobile as the Keen Hoodoo III.

I also loved how easy the Bogs are to put on. The handles on the top made it easy for my son to quickly get ready to go outside. Putting on snow gear is sometimes one of the worst parts of playing outdoors in the winter, so a fast on and off is ideal. That's also great for hurrying to get ready for recess at school in the winter.

While excellent for parents who want a boot suitable for more than one season, the tread on Bogs is not very deep, which isn't ideal for ice. It's also not good for wear and tear; my son wore a small spot on the heel completely flat. The boots were also a little on the heavy side.

The best snow boots for toddlers

The See Kai Run Gilman's flexible sole is easy for new walkers to navigate in, and the boot is still warm and dry.

Pros: Lightweight, flexible, suitable for new walkers, warm, waterproof

Cons: Not machine-washable

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the best shoes for new walkers are no shoes at all, but that's not an option when it comes to protecting little toes from the cold. The See Kai Run Gilman boots were as close to barefoot as possible for a protective, insulated, waterproof boot. Finding snow boots in sizes for new walkers is difficult, but the Gilman starts at size 4. The company recommends sizing up by one size for the best fit.

These were my 1-year-old's first pair of hard-soled shoes, and he was able to easily walk in them once he grew accustomed to the feeling of shoes. The upper portion around the ankle is flexible, and the sole of the boot easily moved with my his foot. Flexibility is most important for the youngest kids, said Jones. "The shoe should really look like the child's foot, not the child's foot having to accommodate to the shoe," she said.

The boots passed our waterproof test up to 3 inches of water. They're lightweight, but my son's feet were still warm to the touch when pulling them off (and in the autumn, occasionally even sweaty). The tread isn't super deep, but offers lots of rubber tread without adding much weight and providing a bit of grip.

As a toddler boot, the shaft of the boot is short, about 3 inches. That's common for toddler boots because a taller boot wouldn't fit the child's shorter legs. It is something parents should be aware off. They'll need snow pants for deeper snow. While they are the most flexible toddler boots that I tested, the Gilman boot is pricey, and it's not machine-washable like options from Stride Rite.

The best lightweight snow boots

With the Keen Lumi II, warmth doesn't have to mean a heavy, bulky boot.

Pros: Lightweight, warm, waterproof, easy to pull on, removable liners

Cons: Not as warm and lacks the padding of the Baffin Mustang

Getting a great winter boot is a matter of finding a balance between insulation and weight. Keen found that with the Lumi II. Although incredibly lightweight, the boots are still waterproof and offer decent warmth.

The Lumi II is rated to -40 degrees. I didn't find them to be quite as warm as other boots that had the same sub-zero rating, like the Baffin Mustang. They performed more in line with boots rated to -30 degrees. However, the insulation was sufficient. My 8-year-old didn't complain of cold feet, and he was able to move around easily and without stomping like he does with heavy boots.

The boot is designed with a rubber outsole and a lightweight rubber-like EVA that covers the boot from sole to ankle, with an upper shaft of light, flexible fabric. The insulation comes in the form of a removable insert. While the sole didn't move as easily as athletic-style boots, it still flexed with the bend of the foot.

I preferred the warmth and soft, cloud-like lining of the Baffin Mustang, but the Keen Lumi II is a good pair of winter boots. These are a great option for kids who need a lightweight boot but like a more traditional style than the tennis shoe-like Keen Hoodoo III.

What else we considered

I tested a dozen pairs of kids snow boots to find warm, dry, and flexible options for outdoor play. These boots didn't quite make the cut. 

Cat and Jack Brody: This Target brand boot was my favorite kids' snow boot on a budget. They kept my son's feet warm and dry. Unfortunately, they are out-of-stock at the end of the season. I've also purchased different Target brand boots in the past with a rubber-like lower and textile upper, and I wouldn't hesitate to purchase similar options. They are warm and dry, just a little heavier and stiffer than more expensive boots.

Northside Frosty: These budget boots are lighter and more flexible than the Cat and Jack Brody. Unfortunately, water leaked in quickly through the seam between the rubber lower and the soft upper. 

Bogs B-Mocs: These toddler boots are warm and flexible but difficult to put on a squirmy 1-year-old. They would be an excellent choice for toddlers learning to dress themselves, however, with their pull-on handles.

Stride Rite Made2Play Shay: These boots can simply be tossed in the washing machine to clean and are still warm. They are the stiffest toddler boots that we tested, and flexibility is essential for this age group. 

Merrell Snow Crush: A lightweight athletic boot, the Snow Crush was just too stiff. I preferred the tennis-shoe-like fit of the Hoodoo. 

Kamik Kid Snobusters: The rubber design of this boot helps keep the water out, and it has a good tread. However, they were not as warm as others we tested. 

Lone Cone Mud Boots: Lightweight and easy to put on, the flexible neoprene upper leaked when submerged, unlike the similar but pricier Bogs Classic. 

Our testing methodology

I tested boots for four months, starting in October with my three kids, ages 8, 5, and 1, wearing them for adventures from getting lost in a corn maze to sledding to snowy hikes. Along with evaluating each pair through real-world use, I also tested the following:

• Waterproofing: I filled the bathtub and dunked each boot for at least 10 seconds. After every boot passed in 1 inch of water, I filled the tub up with 5 inches of water, less if the boots were shorter (such as the toddler boots) or had an opening such as a tongue that pulls away from the boot. Boots that were tested in less than 5 inches are noted above, including the Keen Hoodoo III and See Kai Run Gilman.
• Warmth: How warm your feet are in a pair of boots depends on a number of different factors from activity level to what socks you are wearing. Along with asking my kids if their feet were cold (and feeling the 1-year-old's toes), I used a thermal gun to measure the temperature of their feet after at least 10 minutes playing outside.
• Ease of use: Taking too long to get dressed cuts into recess time for my older kids, while the 1-year-old doesn't sit still. I evaluated how easy each pair of boots was to get on, whether the oldest two kids could get them on themselves, and how quick they were to pull on. I also bent each boot to see how flexible it was and whether or not it would move with the child's foot.
• Wear and tear: At the end of the testing and after at least two weeks of regular use, I examined each boot for signs of wear. I looked at the tread as well as looking for wear signs in the rest of the boot.  I continued to test the boots that made our top picks, which have now all been worn for at least a month.
• Snow wear: Each boot that passed the tests above were worn in the snow at least once. After snow play, I checked to see if the boots were still dry on the inside and noted any complaints for my kids.

How to choose snow boots for kids

Choosing the best snow boots depends on a few different factors, including the age of the child, the climate you live in, and the child's activity level. The best boots for areas that only get a few inches of snow may be shorter (and thus lighter) than a pair of boots for a place that measures its snow in feet rather than inches.

New walkers are some of the toughest children to buy shoes for, since the boots need to be warm and waterproof, yet flexible and lightweight. Babies that will be carried in the snow can wear soft-soled booties for warmth, while walking toddlers need a sturdier tread that still flexes with their developing feet. Most snow boots for toddlers are short in order to allow better movement, so for deeper snow, they'll need to be paired with snow pants pulled over the top of the boot.

Pull-on, insulated rubber boots tend to work well with younger children. "Boots that are all rubber on the outside and insulated on the inside are really good for the younger kids that tend to get wetter and messier than the older kids," said McGurk.

Boots should fit loose enough to allow for a pair of thick socks; Jones recommends trying the shoes on with the winter socks that they'll be wearing to ensure a proper fit. With these socks on, you should be able to fit one finger between the top of the toe and the end of the boot, she said. When walking, the heel should stay in place in the boot, while the toe and midfoot area of the sole should flex with the foot.

All of our experts agreed that wool socks are better than cotton for winter wear. Allowing the air to circulate will also keep feet warmer, so parents should avoid boots that are too small. "Shoes or boots that constrict blood flow can cause feet to become colder," said Louv.

Because boots' thermal performance can depend on several different factors, like socks and activity level, the advertised temperature isn't an exact science. Temperature ratings, however, can be a good tool for comparing boots to each other. A pair of boots rated to -40 degrees may not necessarily keep you warm to that temperature, but they will typically be warmer than a pair rated to -25 degrees, for example. 

When choosing a brand for snow boots, McGurk recommends looking for warmer, tougher gear over style. "Stick with brands that are known outdoor brands that manufacture outdoor clothing for adults," she said. "They know what they are doing."

Where you shop also matters. Multiple experts recommended shopping at sporting goods stores and outdoor retailers rather than the more fashion-oriented department stores.

A good pair of boots can help encourage longer outdoor play. "Outdoor play is important year-round, not just during mild weather," says Ginny Yurich, the founder of 1000 Hours Outside. "Movement and sensory play lays a foundation for lifelong learning, it brings feelings of joy and well-being, and it helps improve overall health. While it's tempting to cozy up next to the fireplace all winter long, having the right gear helps kids get the outside movement they need throughout the year."

Sources

• Linda McGurk, author of "No Such Thing as Bad Weather"
• Richard Louv, author of "Last Child in the Woods"
• Ginny Yurich, founder, 1000 Hours Outside
• Dara Jones, MD, a pediatric physiatrist at New York's Hospital for Special Surgery
• 1000 Hours Outside Facebook group, for brand recommendations
• Staheli, "Shoes For Children: A Review," Pediatrics, August 1991

The best tax software to use in 2021

• H&R Block: Best value overall
• TurboTax: Best value for itemizing deductions
• TaxSlayer: Best value for self-employed filers
• Credit Karma: Best free option for federal and state filing

Most Americans dread filing taxes. It can be costly, confusing, or just plain tedious ... but it has to be done.

The good news is that if you have a straightforward financial situation, there are simple and free tax filing options available online.

If your situation is more complex — you have side jobs, own a business, live and work in different states, or earn income from a trust, for example — you can expect to pay to file your federal income tax return, and probably your state return, too.

Taxes are incredibly nuanced and it's naive to assume one person's filing experience will be like another's because they use the same tax preparer. That said, there are some companies that excel in certain niches, like helping small business owners navigate deductions or walking first-time filers through loads of tax jargon.

Tax software at a glance

We reviewed 10 online tax preparers with an emphasis on their do-it-yourself online filing options. These are the ones that earned an editor's rating of at least 3.5 out of 5. You can find out exactly what goes into these ratings at the end of this post.

*Does not apply to the free version; state is included.

Learn more about the best tax filing software

Below you'll find our picks for the best tax software and more information about why they were selected.

Best value overall

Tax Software (medium)

The pros of H&R Block:

• Best option for a variety of tax situations
• Seamless data entry when you upload tax documents (PDF or photo of paper document)
• Interface is modern and easy to navigate
• Instructions are clear and helpful
• Company doesn't try to upsell you while preparing a return
• Ability to save your spot and return later
• Offices in all 50 states where tax professionals can prepare your return in person or virtually
• Ability to upgrade to get on-demand help from an expert with screen sharing, chat, and video — starts at $69.99 all-in for one federal return (currently $30 off)
• Get a refund advance of up to $3,500 with no finance or interest charges

The cons of H&R Block:

• Free version does not include itemized deductions
• Free version does not offer on-demand chat or phone support

Best value for itemizing deductions

Software (medium)

The pros of TurboTax:

• Best for itemizing deductions
• Interface is easy to navigate and provides helpful graphic explainers
• Ability to save your spot and return later
• Quick data entry when you upload tax documents
• Seamless data import from QuickBooks, Square, and Uber and Lyft
• Ability to upgrade for on-demand help and an expert review of your return before you file — starts at $50 all-in for one federal return

The cons of TurboTax:

• Free version does not include itemized deductions
• Free version does not include deductions for students or student-loan borrowers
• Frequent offers to upgrade
• Most expensive option on the market 
• Does not support creation of K-1 partnership forms online or on Mac computer software

Best value for self-employed filers

Tax Software (medium)

The pros of TaxSlayer:

• Best for self-employed filers
• Low price — comparable self-employed packages at H&R Block and TurboTax are more than 2x the cost
• All packages include phone and email support
• Self-employed package includes on-demand access to a tax professional
• Simple and clean interface
• Ability to set up reminders to pay estimated quarterly taxes throughout the year
• Filers with any type of tax situation whose AGI was under $72,000 in 2020 can use the IRS Free File program to file a federal return, and maybe a state return, with TaxSlayer at no cost (this is higher than TurboTax's offer, which caps AGI at $39,000)

The cons of TaxSlayer:

• Free version does not include Earned Income Tax Credit or child tax credit
• Free version does not support document upload for quick data entry
• Interface isn't as intuitive as H&R Block or TurboTax
• Document upload is advertised but doesn't work perfectly

Best free option for federal and state filing

Tax (medium)

The pros of Credit Karma:

• Best free option for people who are familiar with filing taxes
• $0 to file federal and state returns
• Audit support included
• Instructions are simple, clear, and easy to follow
• Interface is clean and easy to navigate

The cons of Credit Karma:

• Not much hand-holding for tax novices
• You cannot file a state return without filing a federal return
• You cannot file multiple state returns, part-year state returns, or nonresident state returns 
• You cannot claim the Earned Income Tax Credit without dependents, or the foreign earned income exclusion or foreign tax credit
• You cannot upload tax documents for quick data entry
• Lacking in customer support

Other tax services we considered and why they didn't make the cut

• Jackson Hewitt: This platform is incredibly simple and easy to use, and has options for hiring a tax pro to complete your return (starts at $69, plus $50 per state return). But, there's no free version, even for simple tax situations.
• FreeTaxUSA: Despite its name, state returns cost extra at FreeTaxUSA. To get quicker responses from the customer support team and audit help, it's an additional $6.99. 
• TaxAct: This is a good middle-of-the-road option with regards to cost and functionality. TaxAct gets the job done, but doesn't offer the moment-to-moment guidance and technical breakdowns its higher-end competitors are known for.
• eFile.com: A good budget option, but it doesn't offer on-demand access to experts or quick customer support, and the interface is rudimentary.
• 1040.com: Easy to navigate and provides live customer support via chat, but a flat rate of $25 means even people who qualify for free federal filing elsewhere must pay.
• Liberty Tax: This platform has a starting rate of $44.95 for basic tax returns, which are free elsewhere.

Why trust our recommendations?

At Personal Finance Insider, we strive to help smart people make the best decisions with their money. Filing taxes can seem like a frustrating task for many of us and we want to help make the process easier and more affordable.

As previously mentioned, "best" is often subjective — there's no single tax software that will work for everyone. Not only are taxes highly personal, but there isn't one universal user experience. That's why we reviewed 10 of the most popular online tax preparers to identify their top strengths and weaknesses.

Answers to your tax questions

How to file a tax extension
How to file an amended tax return
Are medical expenses tax deductible?
What's the penalty for filing taxes late?
What is estate tax?
How long to keep tax records

How did we choose the best tax software?

We realize that if you're searching for the best tax software, you're probably either willing to spend time filing your own return or you're looking for a more affordable option than hiring a tax professional.

With that in mind, we weighted heavily the following factors when reviewing each platform: cost compared to competitors, user experience, value, availability of tax return import and document upload, an accuracy guarantee/liability, optional audit support, and quality of customer service. Each of these factors was rated on a five-point scale to determine an overall editor's rating.

We also considered the breadth of tax forms included in the various packages offered by each company, with an emphasis on what's available at no cost. Finally, we consulted other experts, like Wirecutter and NerdWallet, to make sure we weren't missing any major features or drawbacks of any of the services.

Which companies did we review?

We started with a list of online tax preparers included in the IRS Free File Alliance. About 70% of US taxpayers qualify for free tax filing, but many don't realize they do, so we gave preference to companies with a free option that's easy to find and doesn't have income limitations. However, we also considered a few companies not currently on the IRS Free File list, including 1040.com and Jackson Hewitt.

Here's a full list of the companies we reviewed:

• H&R Block
• TurboTax
• Jackson Hewitt
• TaxSlayer
• FreeTaxUSA
• Credit Karma
• TaxAct
• Efile.com
• 1040.com
• Liberty Tax

All of these tax providers offer do-it-yourself online filing services and a few, H&R Block and TurboTax included, also sell downloadable software for your computer, which you can use to fill out your tax return without an internet connection. 

Which online tax filing is the best?

According to our research, H&R Block has the best online tax filing platform on the market right now. The ability to file online yourself, with the help of a tax expert, or in-person means H&R Block caters to every preference. Its user interface is modern and uncluttered.

That said, every American who qualifies to file their taxes for free should be able to do so without deception. A 2019 investigation by ProPublica found that H&R Block and Intuit, TurboTax's parent company, were deliberately hiding their free filing services from Google and other search engines. The IRS said the companies are prohibited from doing so going forward.

Despite this, we still feel TurboTax and H&R Block offer valuable and honest products for filing your taxes. Also, as with any financial product, it's in your own best interest to stay vigilant.

How should I choose a tax software?

If you're overwhelmed ...

If you're easily overwhelmed by taxes, the best tax software is going to be one that does most of the work for you; H&R Block and TurboTax are wildly popular for this reason. All you have to do is upload the relevant tax forms and answer a few questions along the way to account for deductions and credits. These two tax preparers have multiple options for filers with any and every type of income, as well as individualized help from a tax expert for an additional fee, if you need it.

If saving money is the most important ...

If your main objective is to save money, check out Credit Karma, which offers completely free federal and state returns, or H&R Block's free version, which supports more tax forms than competitors and offers an excellent user experience.

If you don't qualify for a free version, consider the higher-tier packages from Jackson Hewitt, Tax Slayer, and TaxAct. These companies offer tax software for a fraction of the price of H&R Block and TurboTax and many still permit document uploads for easy data entry, offer on-demand expert help and customer support, and provide a reasonable level of guidance throughout the process.

If you care most about a big tax refund ...

If getting a big tax refund is most important to you and you have time to spare, you may want to fill out a tax return with a few different online preparers. Each of the companies on our best tax software list allows you to begin a tax return for free and pay only when you're ready to submit the return (you will need to set up an account, though). Before payment is required, you should be able to see your tax refund amount and cancel any filing application that doesn't give you the biggest refund.

Dan Miller, Brynne Conroy, and Laura McCamy contributed reporting.

Tanza Loudenback, CFP®, is the personal-finance correspondent at Business Insider. She writes most frequently about saving money, planning for retirement, taxes, debt management, and strategies for building wealth. Have a money question for Tanza? Fill out this anonymous form. 

• The ideal bib is comfortable for your baby, keeping them clean while being fed or picking up food. 
• The BabyBJörn Baby Bib is our favorite, easy-to-clean bib that's durable and collects all food.

While the classic baby-covered-in-spaghetti image is one for the photo album, it's not always one for the busy parent. Fortunately, a baby bib helps keep mashed bananas off of the table and floor, is easy to clean, and lasts a long time.

There are baby bibs to cover every kind of spill or accident, and they come in designs ranging from simple organic cotton to durable plastic with a built-in tray to collect chunks of food. Many bibs are also easy to toss in a bag for traveling. 

I looked at the best bibs and considered material, durability, ease of cleaning, and cost. Our top picks are based on real parents' feedback, critical research, and my own experience and testing.

Here are the best baby bibs of 2021

• Best baby bib overall: BabyBJörn Baby Bib
• Best budget baby bib: Green Sprouts Stay-Dry Bib
• Best baby bib for travel: Happy Healthy Parent Silicone Baby Bib
• Best bandana baby bib: Matimati Baby Bandana Bib
• Best baby bib for spit-up: Aden + Anais Classic Burpy Bib

The best baby bib overall

The BabyBjörnBaby Bib includes a large spill pocket that stays open to collect every kind of food spill from milk to pasta. 

Pros: Smart design with large food pocket, easy to wash, fast-drying, grows with baby

Cons: Not suitable for babies under 4 mos., back closure can pinch the skin 

When it comes to bibs, BabyBJörn's Baby Bib stands above the rest. The Swedish company has been making high-quality baby products for more than 50 years, and this is reflected in their simple yet effective bib design. The BabybJörn Baby Bib is made from durable plastic that withstands your baby's tugging, food and liquid spills, and routine washing.

The plastic has some give to it, ensuring the bib maintains its shape over time while making it comfortable for your baby. I've owned two of these bibs for four years, shared between two kids, and they have held up well. 

Notably, the bib's pocket is designed to catch spills. While some food bits still make it past the pocket, it works better than anything else I've tried. It's also effortless to clean. You can wipe it with a damp cloth, throw it in the dishwasher, or hand-wash it. BabyBJorn uses water-repellent material that prevents wetness from seeping through and the bib dries quickly.

The bibs are perfect in size for babies 4 months and up. The only downside I've found is that the neckband can sometimes pinch skin when I fasten it, but it should be comfortable once it's adjusted. 

The best budget baby bib

The Green Sprouts Stay-Dry Bib comes in an array of colors that each contain water-resistant backing.

Pros: Super soft, affordable, easy to wash, vibrant colors, collects spit-up and drool

Cons: Runs large, some liquids and foods soak through, Velcro closure

The Green Sprouts Stay-Dry Bibs bibs have a waterproof inner layer and two outer layers of soft, absorbent cotton terry. While this doesn't guarantee liquids and food won't seep through, their construction makes cleanup easier. After a meal, you can toss the bib in the washer and, since these come in packs of 10, you'll always have a few days' supply on hand.

What's more, these bibs fasten with an adjustable hook and loop closure that makes them easy to put on and take off. They come in a 10-pack of fun colors so you'll always have one handy when others are in your washing machine.

While I found that these bibs worked well enough during mealtime, they were my first choice for catching spit-up. The softness and comfort of Green Sprouts Stay-Dry Bibs kept my son clean and comfortable. 

The best baby bib for travel

The Happy Healthy Parent Silicone Baby Bib is lightweight for travel, yet durable for collecting food in its built-in pocket. 

Pros: Travel-friendly, lightweight, cute designs, big food-collecting pocket, durable, waterproof

Cons: Not suitable for newborns

The Happy Healthy Parent Silicone Baby Bib is a wonderful, lightweight option to pack in a carry-on bag or diaper bag for feeding on-the-go. It's made from 100% food-grade silicone that cleans up nicely and is dishwasher-safe. Silicone is waterproof, flexible, and moldable, an ideal trio for rolling it up for when you're traveling. 

These bibs have an adjustable silicone neckband that's soft and won't pinch. Each little button will effortlessly secure in the holes on the opposite strap, too.

It's a comfortable bib that fits babies 6 months and up and is available in a variety of bright colors. The bib also includes a pocket to catch spills. While these bibs are our travel-friendly pick, many parents also use them at home. 

The best bandana baby bib

The Matimati Baby Bandana Bib is a soft and durable option that helps manage drool, spit-up, and small food spills.

Pros: Fun design, absorbent material, plastic-free, keeps baby dry longer, affordable, great for collecting drool and spit-up

Cons: Not great for big food spills, not waterproof

I adored my Matimati Baby Bandana Bib. With an adjustable, secure snap closure, it's easy to put on the baby and, because they're machine washable, it's an added bonus you don't have to worry about Velcro sticking to other items in your load.

Matimati's Baby Bandana Bibs don't have any plastic backing like most bibs. Instead, the 100% cotton bibs have an absorbent fleece backing that helps keep a baby dry longer while looking cute. This bib design keeps moisture away from the skin to protect against drool rash and reflux. 

Though the bib is a standout in collecting drool and spit-up, it's not designed for large food spills, simply because of its bandana design. It is, however, a versatile option that will deliver on most of your baby's feedings.

The best baby bib for spit-up

The Aden + Anais Classic Burpy Bib works wonders if your baby spits up and drools often, and is extra soft and comfortable, too. 

Pros: Versatile, perfect spit-up and drool soaker, super soft and absorbent, easy to clean

Cons: Shrinks a little in the wash, not waterproof

The Aden + Anais Classic Burpy Bib is perfect for collecting spit-up because you can drape the bib over your shoulder to burp your baby. It's made of soft, layered muslin that is ultra-absorbent and easy to clean: just throw the bib in your washing machine and you're good to go. And, because it drapes over and snaps, the bib is versatile for newborns and older babies alike.

Great for feeding and burping, it's no surprise that Aden + Anais is our top choice. They also make amazing muslin swaddles, bandana bibs, and a baby bonding top that is perfect for snuggling with your baby. 

Check out our other baby gear guides

• The best baby monitors
• The best baby swaddles
• The best cloth diapers
• The best breast pumps
• The best bottle warmers
• The best strollers

• Compression socks help speed muscle recovery and potentially improve athletic performance.
• The garments also improve blood flow for venous or lymphatic issues, like for the elderly or pregnant women.
• Our top pick, the CEP Progressive+ Compression Run Socks 2.0, is strategically designed and comfortable to wear all day.
• Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals.

Compression socks are one of those garments that seem gimmicky, but they actually have science behind them to help improve your circulation. At its foundation, the garment works by squeezing the walls of the veins and leg tissues to help blood work its way against gravity to the heart. The compression also helps the flow of lymph fluid, which helps remove cellular waste and circulate bacteria-fighting white blood cells throughout your body.

There are a few categories of people who might benefit from this improved blood and lymph flow: athletes looking for better performance and/or recovery; folks with venous or lymphatic issues in the legs, like elderly people with deep vein thrombosis or pregnant folks trying to minimize varicose veins; and anyone with blood clot concerns. People also like to wear compression socks to improve circulation on long flights or long work shifts on their feet (like nurses), where the improved circulation may help reduce soreness.

Many studies show wearing compression socks can help improve blood flow to your lower limbs, promoting healthier vein functioning and healing. Venous issues are particularly high for pregnant women as they have a larger volume of blood pumping through their body. Some 40% of pregnant women develop varicose veins, while the risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) is four- to five-fold higher for moms-to-be compared to non-pregnant women. Wearing compression socks or stockings during pregnancy can potentially help reduce swelling and discomfort, improve circulation, and minimize varicose veins.

When it comes to athletic performance, the jury's still out on just how effective compression garments, including socks, can be. Some research confirms that wearing compression garments helps improve running endurance or cycling sprints, while others say it doesn't change a thing.

However, a recently-published analysis in theOpen Access Journal of Sports Medicine looked at 21 studies and found that a small number do show wearing compression socks during exercise improved performance. Mostly, though, the studies showed wearing the special socks during a grueling workout helped fit folks feel like their leg muscles were firing better, fatiguing less, and after the workout, less sore. Even if it's more placebo than anything, for anyone training hard, particularly for long endurance events like a marathon, wearing compression socks during workouts and recovery may help make your training plan easier.

While researching the best compression socks, we tested dozen of styles across brands like Swiftwick, CEP, and Sockwell. Our guide features socks that provide great comfort, are relatively durable, and are fit to wear in a variety of situations.

Here are the best compression socks:

• Best compression socks overall: CEP Progressive+ Compression Run Socks 2.0
• Best budget compression socks: SB Sox Lite Compression Socks
• Best compression sock for circulation support: Sockwell Elevation Graduated Compression Socks
• Best compression sock for post-workout: Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks
• Best compression sock for runners: Swiftkick Aspire Twelve
• Best compression sock for standing all day: Sockwell Circulator Graduated Compression Socks
• Best patterned compression socks: Vim & Vigr Graduated Compression Socks

Best compression socks overall

Whether you are a runner or just someone who wants to relieve lower leg ailments, the CEP Progressive+ Compression Run Socks 2.0 provides all-day comfort.

Pros: Incredibly comfortable, thinner, won't sag over the course of the day

Cons: Expensive, sizing can be tricky so be sure to measure before ordering

The CEP Progressive+ Compression Run Socks 2.0 (available in men's and women's sizes) stand out from the other socks on our list due in large part to the fact they offer unparalleled comfort — and should be considered by anyone, despite a steep price tag. 

The brand's parent company, Medi, has been producing medical compression products for over 70 years. The founder of CEP, who is an Ironman, leveraged Medi's technical knowledge and designs for athletes.

Made of polyamide/nylon (60%), elastane (25%), and polypropylene (15%), this CEP socks offer precise 20-30mmHg graduated and consistent compression so they won't sag as the day goes on.

The Progressive+ 2.0 Socks feature a halo top band that lands right below the knee. This keeps your socks in place and the front ribbing allows air to flow through to cool your skin's surface. Per CEP's website, the company offers a six-month guarantee that covers wearing the socks up to 150 times before the compression lessens. 

These socks are recommended for anyone who suffers from shin splints, Achilles issues, or plantar fasciitis. They're also great for runners looking to rehab their leg after a long run or workout. 

Best budget

The SB Sox Lite Compression Socks are the least expensive pair in our guide, yet they stay up and provide reliable comfort.

Pros: Inexpensive, relatively durable, snug fit

Cons: Only comes in two sizes

Though the SB Sox Lite Compression Socks are about one-fifth the price of our top pick, they rival it in performance. These socks have a graduated compression rating of 15-20mmHg, which is slightly less than the CEP socks but still supplies sufficient compression for blood circulation.

The socks are made of breathable and lightweight spandex and nylon, which helps to wick away sweat and moisture from your feet. SB Sox come in 11 different colors and two sizes: S/M and L/XL.

Though they seem thinner and lighter than other picks on this list, SB Sox socks hold up well through numerous wears and washes. Plus, they provide a snug fit that doesn't feel too constricting. More sizing options would be welcome, though.

Best for circulation

If you experience circulation problems due to chronic health issues, the Sockwell Elevation Graduated Compression Socks may be your best bet for achieving leg comfort.

Pros: Lightweight, maintain their snugness all day long

Cons: The top of the sock might warp over time, only comes in two sizes

For people with venous or lymphatic issues in their legs, compression therapy can help move blood through the veins and tissue better, which in turn promotes healing and prevents ulcers and other issues. Compression stockings are one of the easier options to put on and less cumbersome than medical bandages, says a 2014 study in CMAJ.

The Sockwell Elevation Graduated Compression Socks (available in men's and women's sizes) are made in the United States using bamboo rayon (31%), merino wool (31%), stretch nylon (30%), and spandex (8%). This combination helps with moisture management, thermoregulation, and odor control.

What's more, these are one of the firmer pairs from Sockwell offering compression of 20-30mmHg. A 2019 study analysis in BMC Geriatrics found elderly folks with chronic blood flow issues (venous insufficiency) and swollen legs who wore class 2 compression stockings (pressure between 20 and 30 mmHg) regularly were less likely to have leg ulcers come back compared to wearing lower compression class 1 stockings (pressure below 20 mmHg).

These Sockwell socks have four zones of graduated compression beginning at the ankles and moving up. Since the compression starts at the ankles, the toes remain comfortable. There are four colors for men to choose from and eight in the women's style.

Best for post-workout

After running countless miles, slipping on a pair of Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks can decrease soreness and help your muscles recover.

Pros: Great for easing muscle soreness, cushioned bottom, durable, 4 sizes, 14 colors

Cons: May not be tight enough for your needs, long drying time

The Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks come in four sizes, which is helpful for ensuring you get the right fit — the appropriate sock size gives you the appropriate level of pressure. Constructed of 82% polyamide and 18% elastane, these socks feature ultra-zone ribbing which targets ankle and arch stabilization, which is ideal for runners with weaknesses in these areas.

The 200 needle count construction is designed to make the socks denser, durable, and reduce stretching over time. They're sweat-wicking, too, but don't tend to dry out very quicky, so are best worn in cooler weather. Zensah offers the socks in 14 colors, including Black, Heather Grey, and Neon Pink. 

Best for runners

Swiftwick's Aspire Twelve help relieve muscle soreness and prevent or relieve shin splints — something any runner can appreciate.

Pros: Offers comfortable compression for runners, promotes blood flow, helps relieve shin splints, and wicks away moisture

Cons: Can be difficult to put on

Swiftwick's compression socks run the gamut of everything from knee-high versions for those looking for full leg relief to no-show options for golfers. For runners, its Aspire Twelve socks are an excellent option to help relieve muscle soreness, prevent or care for shin splints, and provide stability and comfort. 

Comprised of a blend of 43% nylon, 11% spandex, and 46% olefin, the Aspire Twelves don't just offer the benefits of compression but also help wick away moisture to keep your feet dry. They work well to keep on even after your run as you'll continue to reap the benefits of compression as you recover. 

Best for standing all-day

If your job requires you to be on your feet for most of the day, give your lower legs a break with Sockwell's Circulator Graduated Compression Socks.

Pros: Good for reducing foot and ankle swelling, incredibly comfortable, inexpensive

Cons: Concerns about durability, socks may only come up to mid-calf in taller people

The Sockwell Circulator Graduated Compression Socks have a lot of the same features as our pick for best circulation, the Sockwell Elevation socks. They both have four zones of graduated compression from the ankle on up, which keeps the toes feeling comfortable, and each are made of a combination of spandex, bamboo rayon, stretch nylon, and merino wool. But the main differences are that the Circulator socks have moderate compression (15-20mmHg) and cost a bit less ($30 per pair).

The Circulator socks only come in two sizes, though there are nine colors to choose from, including Black Stripe, Charcoal, Black Solid, and Port. Regardless of the size, the socks aren't very long, so they're best used for people with shorter builds. 

Best for fun patterns

Vim & Vigr combines form and function with its fashion-forward compression socks that you'll just love to be seen in.

Pros: Stylish, comfortable, available for both men and women

Cons: Can get expensive

First and foremost, Vim & Vigr compression socks work. After all, no amount of aesthetic creativity would be able to make up for compression socks that don't do much by way of compressing. Luckily, that's not the case with these.

I'm particularly fond of Vim & Vigr's medical-grade compression level, which are designed with a Gradient Knitting Technology to help promote circulation in your calves. The socks feature a structured leg but a flexible toe and heel so that you're supported where you need it but still able to move. These socks offer moderate to firm compression, with somewhere between 20 and 30 mmHG depending on the style.

Regardless of your selection, however, you'll find that Vim & Vigr helps to prevent swelling in your legs, and alleviates pain and achiness. I found that these socks were just as helpful during runs as they were during HIIT workouts — especially as the weather gets colder and circulation becomes increasingly important.

What sets Vim & Vigr apart are its fun, unique designs. Not only is there a wide range of colors to choose from but the brand also offers several interesting patterns. I'm a fan of the colorblock options, as well as Rugby Stripe pattern for men.

Vim & Vigr offers wide calf versions of all their socks for both men and women, so you don't have to be uncomfortable even when donning a tight pair of socks. If you don't need medical-grade compression, you can always opt for the brand's moisture-wicking nylon material, or the remarkably warm merino wool composition. You could also check out Vim & Vigr sleeves, which compress your calves without encasing your feet.

How to shop for compression socks

Compression sock ratings

The compression in the stockings is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Specifically, compression socks are rated based on blood pressure. The majority of compression socks either have a moderate pressure rating of 10 to 20 mmHg or a firm rating of 20 to 30 mmHg.

None of the socks we reviewed have a rating above 30 mm Hg, but there are specialty shops where you can find these if needed. Graduated compression socks, the most common type, are tighter near the ankle than at the calf to avoid cutting off circulation.

Fabrics used

Most compression socks are made from a blend of synthetic fabrics that provide a snug and stretchy fit. In the reviews that follow, we let you know what materials are used in the construction of the socks but unless you have an issue with a specific material, you should let performance be your main guide in choosing the best compression socks.

How best to use compression socks

There is a bit of a paradox associated with wearing compression socks. You may have purchased them to deal with leg swelling. Yet, this same swelling makes it hard for you to put them on. So, what can you do? There are countless resources on the web to help you out, plus we've compiled a few tips here, as well: 

• Apply talcum powder or cornstarch to your feet before putting your socks on.
• Wear dishwashing gloves to get a better grip.
• Roll the socks before you put them on so you can just roll them up your legs.

Dominion and Smartmatic have launched a series of defamation lawsuits against individuals and groups who spread election fraud conspiracy theories related to their voting machines during the 2020 presidential election.

More could be on their way, with Dominion's CEO telling CNBC that its most recent lawsuit, against MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, is "definitely" not its last.

As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, people turned to alternative ways to vote in the election, and voter fraud conspiracy theories quickly sprung up.

One posited that Dominion and Smartmatic developed technology that "flipped" votes from Donald Trump to Joe Biden through a method developed with the regime of the late Venezuelan dictator Hugo Chávez.

The theory has been thoroughly debunked. That didn't stop pro-Trump attorney Sidney Powell and Trump's former personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani from pushing elements of the theory while filing a series of failed lawsuits seeking to overturn the results of the election. Lindell has also spread misinformation about the machines, saying Dominion "built them to cheat."

As well as making the brand "radioactive" and putting its multiyear contracts in jeopardy, according to its attorney Tom Clare, the allegations about Dominion also put its employees in danger, the company wrote in a lawsuit.

Its customer support number received a voicemail message saying "we're bringing back the firing squad," it wrote in the suit in January. The need for heightened personal security cost Dominion $565,000, according to the lawsuit, bringing its total costs attributed to the vote fraud claims to almost $1.2 million.

Here's a list of everyone is being sued so far.

Sidney Powell by Dominion and Smartmatic

On January 8, Dominion filed a defamation suit against pro-Trump attorney Sidney Powell, seeking $1.3 billion in damages.

Powell was one of the faces of the Trump campaign's legal team in November, but Trump kicked her off the team after she floated her conspiracy theory at a press conference.

Despite being purged from Trump's "Elite Strike Force" legal team Powell used her false theories as the premise of four federal lawsuits seeking to overturn the election result. All of them failed, and some have resulted in motions for her to be disbarred.

Dominion's lawsuit alleges that Powell's claims caused the company business losses after she baselessly accused the company of fraud, election rigging, and bribery.

"Powell's statements were calculated to — and did in fact — provoke outrage and cause Dominion enormous harm," Tom Clare, the attorney representing Dominion, wrote in the lawsuit.

The 124-page defamation lawsuit also outlines how Powell raised money from her media tour peddling her conspiracy theory through a corporate vehicle called "Defending the Republic," also named as a party in the lawsuit.

Powell responded by tweeting that the lawsuit "is baseless & filed to harass, intimidate, & to drain our resources as we seek the truth of #DominionVotingSystems' role in this fraudulent election."

Smartmatic filed a defamation lawsuit against Powell a month later, suing her at the same time it sued Rudy Giuliani, a fellow conspiracy theorist, and Fox News.

The company claimed that Powell and Giuliani used right-wing media outlets like Fox News to make their conspiracy theories go viral.

"These defendants are primary sources of much of the false information," the company said. "Their unfounded accusations were repeated by other media outlets, journalists, bloggers and influencers the world over."

Rudy Giuliani by Dominion and Smartmatic

On January 26, Dominion filed a defamation suit against Rudy Giuliani, Trump's now-former personal lawyer, again seeking $1.3 billion in damages.

In the lawsuit, Dominion accused Giuliani of creating "a viral disinformation campaign about Dominion," referring to more than 50 of his statements.

Through hearings, television appearances, Twitter, and his own YouTube show, it said, Giuliani repeatedly accused Dominion of election fraud and misrepresented the company's security measures while doing so.

He "cashed in by hosting a podcast where he exploited election falsehoods to market gold coins, supplements, cigars and protection from 'cyberthieves,'" Dominion wrote in the lawsuit.

The 107-page document also cited numerous other people who said they believed Giuliani's claims, which it argued demonstrated the scope of the damage.

"Rudy Giuliani actively propagated disinformation to purposefully mislead voters," Dominion CEO John Poulos said in a statement. "Because Giuliani and others incessantly repeated the false claims about my company on a range of media platforms, some of our own family and friends are among the Americans who were duped."

Smartmatic also included Giuliani as a defendant in its lawsuit filed in February.

The company said Giuliani used the conspiracy theories to enrich himself.

"He reportedly would seek thousands of dollars ($20,000/day) in fees from President Trump to spread the story and file frivolous lawsuits," the company wrote in its lawsuit. "He would also use the attention brought to him as one of the primary storytellers to sell various products – from coins to supplements to title fraud protection."

In a statement following the Dominion lawsuit, Giuliani said he welcomed it and suggested he had not previously done a thorough investigation of Dominion's practices.

Mike Lindell by Dominion

On February 22, Dominion filed a defamation suit against MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, also seeking $1.3 billion in damages.

Lindell is a staunch ally of former president Donald Trump and a major GOP donor, who has repeatedly supported Trump's claims challenging the integrity of the election.

Dominion's lawsuit accused Lindell of repeatedly making false allegations while knowing there was no credible evidence to support his claims. As well as rallies, interviews, and a two-hour movie, Lindell used his social-media profiles to spread his baseless claims of voter fraud.

In the lawsuit, Dominion claimed Lindell used the claims as a way to ramp up his pillow sales, advertising on far-right media outlets that parroted his claims and sponsoring a bus tour that sought to overturn the election results. Lindell told Insider that retailer boycotts of MyPillow following the insurrection have cost him tens of millions of dollars in business.

He "knowingly lied about Dominion to sell more pillows to people who continued tuning in to hear what they wanted to hear about the election," Dominion wrote.

Lindell told Insider Dominion had "zero, zero, zero" chance of winning. The lawsuits were part of cancel culture's attempts at silencing voices, he said.

"I looked at it as a great day for America when they sued me," Lindell added. "I can put the evidence for the whole world to see, and it'll be public record, and the media will quit trying to suppress it."

Fox News by Smartmatic

On February 4, Smartmatic filed a $2.7 billion lawsuit against Fox News, accusing it of waging disinformation campaigns about the company's role in the 2020 election.

"In November and December 2020, Fox News broadcast multiple reports stating and implying that Smartmatic had fixed and rigged the 2020 election," the company said.

"They repeated the false claims and accusations on air and in articles and social media postings that were together seen by millions in the US and even more around the world."

Fox called the lawsuit "meritless" and asked a judge to dismiss the case.

"Fox News Media is committed to providing the full context of every story with in-depth reporting and clear opinion," the company said. "We are proud of our 2020 election coverage and will vigorously defend this meritless lawsuit in court."

Asked whether Dominion would also sue Fox News, Poulos told CNBC the company was "not ruling anyone out."

A Fox News representative told Insider earlier in February that the network ran several "fact-check" segments "prior to any lawsuit chatter." While several of its news shows reported that there was no evidence of Dominion's systems changing votes, Fox News, in particular its opinion hosts, "questioned the results of the election or pushed conspiracy theories about it at least 774 times" in the two weeks after the network called the race, according to Media Matters.

Jeanine Pirro, Maria Bartiromo, and Lou Dobbs by Smartmatic. They have filed to dismiss the lawsuit

Smartmatic's 285-page lawsuit against Fox News also named the hosts Lou Dobbs, Maria Bartiromo, and Jeanine Pirro as defendants.

Smartmatic said the hosts had offered Powell and Giuliani a platform and endorsed their falsehoods.

Bartiromo, Pirro, and Dobbs all filed separate motions to dismiss the lawsuit, Fox News said.

Dominion will 'definitely' file more lawsuits, its CEO said

Dominion CEO John Poulos told CNBC the company's filing against Lindell was "definitely not the last lawsuit."

Dominion has sent cease-and-desist notices and warnings to preserve documents to more than 150 people, The Washington Post reported. This includes the media outlets Fox News, Newsmax, and One America News.

But Americans could be "forgiven for believing" the claims because they were touted as facts, Poulos told CNBC.

A unique fleet of aircraft is fueling the explosive growth of e-commerce as consumers turn to online shopping during the pandemic and retailers promise faster-than-ever delivery times. 

And while air travel remains signifcantly lower due to COVID-19, some former passenger aircraft are avoiding early retirement by finding a second life moving cargo. Logistics giants, meanwhile, are using the airline industry's downturn to grow their fleets by acquiring aging passenger aircraft for a fraction of what they'd sell for new. 

Amazon, for example, bought 11 Boeing 767-300ER passenger aircraft from Delta Air Lines and Canada's WestJet in January for cargo conversion. While the pandemic had rendered the planes obsolete for flying passengers, they're now prime candidates to fly packages instead. 

But converting a passenger plane into a cargo carrier isn't as easy as just taking out the seats. The aircraft also needs to be extensively retrofitted to handle the inanimate payload. It's months-long process currently can only be done by a handful of firms around the world, and the conversion can often cost as much as the planes themselves. 

Luckily, business is booming. 

Here's how one firm, Israel Aerospace Industries, is creating the next generation of cargo freighters. 

Israel Aerospace Industries has been converting passenger jets to freighters for four decades now, starting with the iconic Boeing 747.

Over the years, the firm has grown to become the go-to for converting some of Boeing's most-popular aircraft including the 737 Classic, and the 767-200.

But the main focus for newer customers like Amazon are the Boeing 737 Next Generation and the Boeing 767-300ER.

It starts with an airplane. The customer first sends the aircraft details, including the serial number and information about the onboard systems to the firm, where a new design is crafted.

And upon arrival, the entire interior is stripped so that engineers can rebuild with a clean slate.

"Actually we are opening the aircraft," Yossi Melamed, general manager of the Aviation Group of Israel Aerospace Industries, told Insider, "taking everything out."

Passengers seats, for example, are no longer needed on these planes and are removed.

The cabin floor is then removed and replaced with a reinforced structure that allows the aircraft to handle the weight of the cargo pallets, and allows for easier loading as rollers help guide and move the pallets.

Another key differentiator between a cargo plane and a passenger plane is the cargo door, located on the side of the fuselage. Engineers start by cutting out a section of the fuselage.

Then a "plug" is installed in its place.

And the cargo door is installed.

The aircraft has to be held in place while the fuselage modifications are made to ensure it doesn't twist.

Without the door, the aircraft would be limited to carrying only small packages and pallets.

Engineers then go to work on the aircraft's systems.

Some cargo carriers are opting to install a modern cockpit for the Boeing 767, for example.

Windows are also covered as there are no passengers.

And a rigid barrier is installed to protect the cockpit from the cargo in the back.

Once all the modifications are complete, the aircraft is cleaned and washed while paperwork is completed behind the scenes.

The newly-converted aircraft then takes flight to test its airworthiness in the new configuration, followed by delivery to the customer.

Some newly-converted freighters will have a trace of their former life. This aircraft once flew for American Airlines, for example.

The conversion process takes, on average, around 100 days. But if a customer chooses to have the firm handling extra work like maintenance and painting, it can take as long as 120 days.

Israel Aerospace Industries has completed over 700 of these conversions on a wide range of aircraft from business jets to passenger jets.

Melamed estimates that between 60%-70% of Amazon's Prime Air fleet is comprised of aircraft converted by his firm. "I want to believe that Amazon is trusting us and we are trusting them," Melamed said.

Aircraft are converted at three of the firm's sites around the world in Israel, Mexico, and China. Another location is slated to open this year, though the location remains a secret. The company plans to have seven sites by 2024.

Melamed is confident that the demand for freighters will only grow in the next few years as commercial passenger flights, which also carry cargo, took a big hit during the pandemic.

"[Freighters] kept the world moving when all the commercial passenger business was down," Melamed said.

But even once the pandemic ends and traffic returns to 2019 levels, Melamed believes that freighters will continue to be in demand as the amount of freight that needs to be transported across the globe increases.

Israel Aerospace Industries is also leading the charge on a new freighter plane, the cargo variant of the Boeing 777-300ER, nicknamed the "big twin." It will be the largest twin-engine Boeing cargo plane when it flies.

"I would say that it's the best candidate to be converted after the 747," Melamed said.

Read More: Boeing just announced the definitive end of the legendary 747 as cargo giant Atlas Air places an order for the final 4 planes

So why don't airlines just buy new aircraft? It comes down to how cargo airlines utilize their freighters.

A new aircraft flying for Delta Air Lines or American Airlines might be flying all the time while a Boeing 767 for Amazon might rest longer in between flights, also known as having a low utilization rate.

It makes more economic sense to spend less on aircraft with low utilization rates, just like a commuter wouldn't want to have a Mercedes as a station car.

And of course, boxes don't care if they're flying in a new Boeing 767 or a 30-year-old Boeing 767.

A 767 conversion can cost as much as $13-$14 million, according to Chris Seymour, head of market analysis for Cirium. That's around as much as a used 20-year Boeing 767 in "superb" condition might cost.

Read More: The airline industry's loss is Amazon's gain as the e-commerce giant purchases 11 Boeing 767 airliners to use as cargo planes

And of course, there's the maintenance issues associated with purchasing an older aircraft.

But even if a company spends $30 million in total on acquisition, conversion, and maintenance costs, it's still cheaper than paying the current list cost price of $220.3 million for a new Boeing 767-300F.

Source: Boeing

Demand is currently sky high. While the process only takes a few months, new 767 conversion customers may have to wait almost two years as Israeli Aerospace Industries is fully booked through 2022.

"If somebody will insist that he wants a slot [for 2022], I would say go to the Western Wall, put in a piece of paper, and ask God for a slot," Melamed said.

A year after the COVID-19 pandemic upended our lives, new signs of recovery give cause for optimism about the future.

The pandemic has affected almost every industry, and some are poised to see strong growth as things continue to improve.

Businesses across the US have found innovative ways to serve customers, keep employees working, and pay rent.

"We faced tougher problems and the American miracle, the American magic has always prevailed, and it will do so again," Warren Buffet said back in May. "Bet on America."

Indeed, some of the most successful startups were launched in the depths of a recession, including Airbnb, Venmo, Pinterest, and WhatsApp.

There's also plenty of opportunity to run a resilient business that adds value to the community, a study from MIT found.

And half of Americans surveyed by Lending Tree want more local businesses like restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores in their communities. 

Whatever kind of business you start, adaptability and innovation will be essential.

Insider has covered companies big and small as they've navigated shutdowns, government loans, employee safety, and preparing to reopen.

Based on our reporting, conversations with experts, and a review of the research, here is a list of businesses we expect will thrive in America's economic recovery.

We've talked to experts and leaders across industries, and through these conversations and analyses, we've determined an unranked list of businesses that we expect will shape our economic recovery.

HOW TO START A BUSINESS: The ultimate guides for founders on launching a company, raising money, and becoming wildly successful in 2020

THE ENTREPRENEUR'S TOOL KIT: The best apps, services, and documents all first-time founders need to start a business

SEE ALSO: 8 things you should know before starting a small business

Coffee shops

One in four Americans want more coffee shops in their local communities, findings that are echoed by the experience of Peter Giuliano, Chief Research Officer for the Specialty Coffee Association.

Giuliano told Insider that local cafe owners' strong community ties have helped them successfully adapt their business during the pandemic.

"Their core regulars got really committed to stay engaged with the shop," he said.

In addition, independent coffee shops were able to increase the average transaction by 25% from March to April,  in part by offering more grocery items and home brewing supplies.

Fitness equipment and subscriptions

Getting a regular workout is hard enough before you add in social distancing.

Even so, many customers are learning that exercising at home can be cheaper, safer, and more time-efficient than going to a gym.

Peloton, which sells a high-end stationary bike and virtual classes, had a banner year, and popular fitness startup Cubii told Insider that sales of its compact ellipticals have been booming since people started sheltering in place.

Products or services to improve the at-home workout experience could see an uptick in sales, and brands that provide a premium virtual experience will have an edge over those that don't.

Contactless food ordering and grocery delivery

Economic data show consumer spending in "food at home" categories has remained elevated over normal levels in the months since social distancing measures were broadly enacted.

According to Yelp, takeout and delivery surged 350% relative to reservations for dining in, and ghost kitchens are popping up everywhere.

Nick Green, the CEO and cofounder of grocery delivery service  Thrive Market , told Insider the pandemic accelerated the adoption of online grocery shopping.

"In February, 5% of Americans bought groceries online; in March, 35% did. Even if half those people go back, we're likely to see a 4x increase in online grocery shopping in the 'new normal,'" he said.

Concierge personal services

If any business category has been the  center of attention during the debate over reopening businesses, it's hair and nail salons. 

Beauty services will most certainly  look very different  going forward, says entrepreneur and lawyer Joleen Hughes. 

Hughes talks to a wide range of entrepreneurs for her podcast, and told Insider she's seeing an opportunity for in-home services and concierge businesses at a more negotiable price point.

In-home services from nail technicians or hair stylists would "open up a whole other door to a different type of experience," she said.

Auto mechanics

New car sales keep getting hammered between last year's supply issues and this year's chip shortages.

That means people will need to make their current cars last longer, and that will call for skilled service and repair technicians to keep the wheels turning.

Auto repair businesses are also generally easy to stay socially distant in order to protect workers and customers.

Online retail

The pandemic accelerated the death of brick and mortar retail stores; ecommerce will be tantamount to the malls and outlets of decades passed. America witnessed its largest shift in consumer values since the Great Depression, according to an analysis by Zeno Group.

By Shopify's projection, ecommerce is expected to nearly double by 2023 to more than $6.5 billion. Last holiday season, more consumers shopped online earlier to avoid pandemic-induced shipping delays. The increase of curbside pickup options during could reinforce the popularity of "buy online, pick-up in-store."

The platforms to sell products online will only multiply, whether through building an ecommerce website, marketing on social media, or connecting with customers over livestreams.

Telehealth services

Even before the pandemic, telehealth services were becoming more common.

Now, necessity is finally opening up new opportunities in telemedicine for doctors, physical therapists, dentists, mental health, and even pharmacists. 

Doctors expect pent-up demand for delayed services to come roaring back after the pandemic. 

Meanwhile, shuttered stores originally positioned for retail may be repurposed into  medical office spaces .

Ara Katz, cofounder and co-CEO of microbiome company Seed, told Insider that investors will be well-positioned to take on health and science industries.

"This pandemic has revealed the underinvestment in and deprioritization of science, as well as the critical importance of its communication," she said.

Wedding and event planning

After months of canceled weddings and events, people will look for new ways to host their birthdays, graduations, and weddings once it's safe to gather again.

Sarah Chancey, the founder of national wedding-planning brand Chancey Charm, told Insider that postponed weddings will lead to the busiest fall her company has ever seen. 

Her planners continue to plan and consult brides through their online portal and virtual design studio, an advantage they already had in place before the pandemic hit.

Author and speaker Julius Solaris says research out of Germany shows events will be more focused on small gatherings in multiple locations, rather than large, central gatherings.

Education technology and tutoring services

Education has a major disruption on its hands.

New education companies will set themselves apart by simplifying access to online training and credentialing, homeschooling resources, and virtual tutoring.

A Deloitte survey found 75% of teachers believe digital learning will replace printed textbooks by 2026, and a NewSchools-Gallup survey of the PreK-12 public school system found that 65% of teachers are using digital learning tools to teach every day, and 87% are using it at least a few days per week.

Bicycles

Cycling got a lot more popular in 2020. 

Some riders saw it as a way to get exercise, while others simply wanted a way to get around town. Both scooped up new and used bikes in record numbers.

Sales spiked in April to about $1 billion, nearly double the typical level, according to the market research company NPD Group. 

Eric Bjorling, the Trek's director of brand marketing, called it "the biggest boom the cycling industry has ever experienced."

Bike shops in New York and New Jersey also saw a jump in sales and repair orders when they got added to the list of essential businesses.

Pet training and care

Pet adoption surged last year. 

More than one third of consumers surveyed by Bank of America in September said they adopted a pet in the last six months, and the bank expects that trend to continue.

With the increase in new fur-babies, consumers are looking for ways to train or care for their new family members.

Some professionals offer virtual sessions, providing advice or guidance on common issues like housebreaking, while brick-and-mortar establishments have reopened to provide daycare or boarding. And did we mention treats, toys, and other supplies?

What's more, dog walking services will be vital for working professionals who are returning to the office.

Plant care and flower delivery services

When the pandemic forced individuals inside, many sought the comfort of succulents and home gardening.

House plant startup the Sill reported a 50% increase in sales between April and March while gardening resource company ScottsMiracle-Gro reported that sales reached $748.6 million, a new record in the first fiscal quarter of this year. 

Meanwhile, flower delivery services also saw a bump.

Customers who couldn't convene with loved ones sent flowers instead, finding a way to bridge the socially distanced gap during the pandemic. Floral retailer 1-800-Flowers reported record revenues and profits in its fiscal fourth quarter of 2020 — total net revenue jumped by 61.1% to $418 million. 

February is Black History Month, when the achievements of Black Americans are recognized and celebrated.

Although the US has come a long way in working toward equity in the workplace and recognizing the work and contributions of Black Americans, there is still a long way to go to achieve full equality. That can be seen in figures like the Black-white wealth gap, Black-white wage gap, high unemployment rates for Black Americans even before the pandemic, and low representation in the c-suites of America's largest companies.

The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified many of those inequities. The unemployment rate for both Black men and women spiked higher than white men and women during the spring, and the rate for Black men is still higher among these four demographics. It has also affected their businesses and the strides they have made in the workplace. Research shows that there have also been more Black deaths from the novel coronavirus than among other racial and ethnic groups.

We decided to look at the impact coronavirus has had on Black Americans and data that highlights the white-Black gap.

The following 15 charts show disparities and inequalities that still exist for Black Americans.

SEE ALSO: Roz Brewer is showing corporate America what it means to be anti-racist

The employment-to-population ratio is a popular metric to look at how much of the working-age population is employed in the labor force. This ratio has been lower for Black Americans over the years compared to white or Hispanic Americans.

This ratio looks at share of the population in each race or ethnicity with a job. Although the ratio for Black Americans has increased in the years following the Great Recession, the rate has historically been lower for Black Americans than white or Hispanic and Latino Americans. 

The employment-to-population ratio for Black Americans was 59.3% in February 2020 and dropped to 48.8% in April 2020 when millions of Americans were laid off or had to leave the workforce during the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

White Americans saw a similar drop from 61.3% to 51.7%, but the ratio at the end of 2020 was higher than for Black Americans. Although the employment-to-population ratio increased for all of these demographics since the spring, they are still below pre-pandemic rates. 

Layoffs have negatively impacted workers, especially Black workers. A Morning Consult poll, reported by Insider in April, found nearly 20% of Black Americans said that they knew someone in their household that had lost their job amid the crisis.

Labor force participation has been low for Black Americans. At the end of December 2020, the rate for Black Americans was 1.8 percentage points lower than the rate for white Americans.

The labor force participation rate includes people who are working or actively looking for work.

The policy institute Center for American Progress wrote in an analysis that the gap between white and Black workers for both the employment-population ratio and labor force participation rate has narrowed over time. Right before the pandemic hit, the rate was 63.1% for Black Americans and 63.2% for white Americans in February 2020. Although the rate has fluctuated for Black Americans since the Great Recession, the rate for white Americans has steadily dropped.

Because of the effects of the pandemic, labor force participation has dropped for white, Black, and Hispanic Americans, as people have faced layoffs and stopped seeking work. However, Black and Hispanic Americans saw a bigger drop in April than white Americans. All rates were still below pre-pandemic rates at the end of 2020.

Referrals can make it easier for people to connect with employers, but this can impact Black Americans seeking work. A PayScale report covered by NBC found that people who received referrals were "overwhelmingly white men" which PayScale Vice President Lydia Frank said makes sense given their labor force participation.

The unemployment rate for Black Americans has been roughly double the unemployment rate among white workers for most of the years since this figure was tracked.

The pandemic has disproportionately affected the employment of Black and Hispanic workers. The Economic Policy Institute wrote in an analysis that Black workers are less likely to be in jobs that can be done remotely and more likely to be in jobs considered essential or in jobs that have experienced major job losses amid the pandemic.

However, Black Americans had a higher unemployment rate even before the devastating impact of the pandemic on workers. Although the unemployment rate for Black Americans fell from 16.8% in March 2010 to 6.0% in February 2020, these rates were still higher than the unemployment rate for white Americans.

The Center for American Progress wrote in its analysis that the Black unemployment rate has consistently been about double that of the white unemployment rate since this figure was first tracked. It only was a little less than double the rate of white unemployment around the Great Recession.

The unemployment rate is still high for both demographics after falling in recent months, but getting Black workers back to work may be especially difficult. Olugbenga Ajilore, senior economist at the Center for American Progress previously told Insider that Black Americans tend to be the first ones to lose their jobs in a recession and last to regain them.

Black men have had high unemployment rates over the years, and the rate is almost double the unemployment rate of white men at the end of 2020.

The unemployment rate for Black men has been higher than for Black women and white Americans over time. The unemployment rate for Black women was a few percentage points higher than Black men during April and May, however, but has since fallen. All rates are still higher than they were before the pandemic.

"For men, the Black-white unemployment gap is mostly due to high labor force exit rates for African Americans," The Center for American Progress wrote in an analysis.

There were about 125,000 Black-owned businesses in 2018. The pandemic has been hard for small businesses, including Black-owned businesses.

The number of Black-owned businesses has grown in recent years, especially for Black women. In the most recent survey conducted by the Census Bureau, there were 124,551 Black-owned businesses, with most of these businesses in healthcare and social assistance. The Census Bureau wrote the share of Black-owned businesses in this particular sector was 28.5%, or over 35,000 businesses, "the highest percentage of any minority group."

The pandemic has been especially hard on Black-owned businesses. A New York Fed report found that the number of active Black business owners fell by 41% between February and April 2020, nearly double the overall closure rate of 22%.

"Data from counties nationwide show Black-owned firms are more likely to be located in COVID-19 hot spots, whereas white-owned firms are less likely to be in the most heavily affected areas," the authors wrote in the report as one of the reasons to explain this drop.

But McKinsey notes that the economic state of some Black entrepreneurs were already struggling. According to McKinsey, 58% of Black-owned businesses were already "at risk of financial distress", compared to 27% of white-owned businesses.

The Black-white wage gap continues to exist. Black women only make about 66% of what white men make.

Black women make 90.7% of what Black men make. Among respondents on the Census Bureau's American Community Survey who described themselves as being a single race, this is the highest share of what women made as a percent of men in the same demographic. However, they also make less than what Asian and white women and men make.

The wages of Black workers have historically been lower than those of white workers. This gap has been growing, as noted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, citing research that finds factors like discrimination and opportunity differences contribute to this gap.

The gap can be seen by how much Black women make compared to white men. White men's median earnings were $57,003 in 2019 per the American Community Survey, while Black women made $37,402. That is, Black women made about 66% of what white men made. Among the different demographics, Asian women were closest to making what white men made with a median earnings of $56,001.

White households have held the most wealth since 1989; the aggregate wealth of Black households was about 4.5% that of white wealth in the third quarter of 2020.

The aggregate wealth for Black Americans is much smaller than the wealth of white Americans. At the end of 2020, white household wealth was nearly $100 trillion compared to nearly $5 trillion for Black households.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland wrote in its research that the income gap is the "primary driver" of the Black-white wealth gap and contributes to this continuation of Black wealth falling behind white wealth.

The share of wealth held by Black households has not changed much over the years. In the third quarter of 1989, white households held 90.6% of the total wealth compared to 3.8% of Black households. In the third quarter of 2020, white households held 84.6% of the total wealth compared to 3.8% held by Black households.  

Even among people in the highest income percentile, white families have more wealth than Black families in the same household income bracket, according to an analysis by Brookings of the Federal Reserve data. 

"White families receive much larger inheritances on average than Black families," Brookings wrote.

The Economic Policy Institute wrote that Black Americans historically have had high unemployment rates, low wages, and less savings putting them at already vulnerable financial state compared to white Americans.

"This prior insecurity has magnified the current economic damage to these workers and their families," the Economic Policy Institute wrote about the pandemic's negative impact on Black workers.

The number of Black CEOs of Fortune 500 and S&P 500 companies has barely changed over the past two decades.

There has been a lack of diversity in the c-suite. The number of Black, Hispanic, and Asian CEOs in Fortune 500 and S&P 500 companies has doubled from 4.3% in 2004 to 9.5% in 2020 per a report from Crist Kolder Associates. However, the number for Black Americans in these companies has not changed much over the past two decades.

According to the report, there are only five Black CEOS, one less than the reported figure in 2004. This means Black CEOs make up less than one percent of the total CEOs in these companies.

Unlike CEOs, the number of Black CFOs has increased in these companies since 2004, and this number hit the double digits in 2017.

But there is still a long way to go for Black representation at the top of the corporate ladder.

"Even the most advanced companies, with regards to diversity and inclusion, are still struggling to advance Black and brown employees from middle management into more senior positions," Stephanie Creary, assistant professor of management at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania previously told Insider.

The Fortune 500 companies have lacked Black representation over the past decades. There have only been 19 Black CEOs since the 1955 Fortune 500 list.

There is also very little Black female representation in the c-suite. Roz Brewer is stepping down as Starbucks' chief operating officer at the end of February to become the CEO of Walgreens. She will be one of five Black CEOs of a Fortune 500 company, but Merck's CEO Ken Frazier is retiring this year. She will also be the only Black female CEO of a Fortune 500 company.

Although Congress has become more diverse, Black representation in the House of Representatives and Senate is still low.

In politics, diversity has also increased over the years. For instance, President Joe Biden said his cabinet would be "the most diverse in history." And per Insider's analysis, Biden's Cabinet and White House staff are made up of at least 50% people of color.

Year after year, there have been more Black members in Congress, and there have been 50 Black voting members since the 115th in 2017 congress. According to Pew Research, the 117th Congress is the most diverse Congress yet with 59 Black members, excluding non-voting members and commissioners. Pew Research wrote that the majority of non-white members in Congress are Democrats.

Black Americans make up a smaller share of many managerial and professional positions compared to other races and ethnicities.

We can also look at the highest-paying major occupational category, management and professional occupations, to see how many Black Americans hold these roles compared to other demographics. According to an analysis of employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 55% percent of employed Asians worked in management, professional, and related occupations, while 32% of employed Blacks work in this category.

Among employed men, 26% of Black men worked in this highest-paying occupational category and among employed women, 37% of Black women worked in this category.

As Insider previously reported, this may be because of "racist hiring practices that kept Blacks out of business for decades under Jim Crow" and prejudices in the workplace.

The share of Black households that own their own homes has been historically lower than white households.

Insider wrote in a previous analysis about systemic racism in the US that "lower incomes and higher rates of poverty, combined with difficulties in getting mortgage approval, mean that homeownership rates for Black Americans remain low."

And the Urban Institute found that in every US city with large Black populations, there is a homeownership rate gap between white and Black Americans.

Over the years, homeownership rates have been much higher for white Americans than Black Americans. The homeownership rate for white Americans has been around 75% while Black homeownership has been around between 40% to around 50%. Homeownership for Black Americans hit a low of 40.6% in the second quarter of 2019. In the fourth quarter of 2020 alone, the homeownership rate was about 1.7 times higher than that of Black Americans.

White Americans continue to be more likely than Black Americans to have a bachelor's or graduate degree.

A higher share of white Americans have a bachelor's or graduate degree compared to the share of Black Americans. Of Black Americans who were 25 years or older in 2019, 13.9% had a bachelor's degree, compared to 21.3% of white Americans.

Student debt is also a bigger burden on Black Americans. According to Brookings, Black borrowers graduate with $7,400 more student loan debt on average than white borrowers. Insider previously reported that about 87% of black students borrow federal loans to attend four-year colleges, compared to about 60% of white students.

The pandemic not only has largely impacted employment but the health of Black Americans. The death ratio for Black Americans to non-Hispanic white Americans was 1.9.

Based on data updated as of February 18 from the CDC, coronavirus cases, deaths, and hospitalizations were all higher for Black Americans than for non-Hispanic white Americans. There have also been previous CDC reports that show the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on Black Americans. 

The COVID Tracking Project shows similar results. Based on this data as of February 24, 70,215 Black Americans have died. That is 1.4 times higher than the coronavirus death rate of white Americans.

A study, previously reported by Insider, with over 18 million participants found Black people in the US and UK are twice as likely to contract the novel coronavirus than white people. The Mayo Clinic wrote that one reason for more COVID-19 cases for people of color could be because they are more likely to have underlying health conditions.

They may also be in jobs that require close contact with other people, putting their health at risk amid the pandemic.

For instance, EPI wrote Black workers make up 11.9% of the workforce but 17.0% of frontline workers, including a high share in public transit and trucking or warehousing. This can put their health at risk while working closely with others and not being able to work these jobs from home.  

The CDC looked at the 6.7 million people who received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine and where their race or ethnicity is known. Among the known yet limited data, 359,934 were Black compared to over 4 million white Americans.

Since the vaccination was first distributed in the US, there have been over 66 million vaccines administered per KFF's tracking data.

But the distribution of the vaccine among racial and ethnic groups may differ.

"Based on vaccinations with known race/ethnicity, the share of vaccinations among Black people is smaller than their share of cases in all 16 reporting states and smaller than their share of deaths in 15 states," KFF wrote in January.

A CDC report takes a deeper dive of the demographics for people who have received at least one dose between December 14, 2020 and January 14, 2021. Race and ethnicity data were only available for 6.7 million people, or 51.9% of the vaccine recipients, so this data is limited and doesn't give a full picture of all Americans who have been vaccinated.

Among those recipients for whom race was known, non-Hispanic white Americans made up the largest share who received at least one dose at 60.4%, while only 5.4% were Black. Again, it is possible that more Black Americans received the dose, given the race for nearly half of the reported data is unknown.

Insider's analysis of six states with reported vaccination data by race and ethnicity and that are among the states with the 10 largest Black populations shows Black Americans have a lower share than white Americans in receiving the vaccine. Insider did note that it was still early on in the rollout of the vaccine.

But some Black Americans are unsure whether they are getting the vaccine. A Pew Research survey in November found that only 42% of Black Americans said they would probably or definitely get the vaccine.

"It's not so much that Black people or other minorities are unwilling to take [the vaccines], but there is really unequal access to the cutting edge of medicine and medical technology — and that is, in some respects, a bigger problem than reticence to take new treatments," Tina Sacks, assistant professor at UC Berkeley's School of Social Welfare previously told Insider.

The share of Black Americans without health insurance in 2019 was about double the rate for white Americans.

Health coverage is especially important amid the pandemic.

"Members of racial and ethnic minority groups are more likely to encounter barriers to getting care, such as a lack of health insurance or not being paid when missing work to get care,"Mayo Clinic wrote.

And more Black Americans are uninsured than white Americans. Based on 2019 data from the Census Bureau's Current Population Survey, 9.6% of people without health insurance are Black compared to 5.2% of non-Hispanic white. 

Democrats are hoping to send the $1.9 trillion American rescue package to the Senate next week and to President Joe Biden by March 12 said House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer in a press call.

The bill includes $1,400 stimulus checks, $400 federal unemployment benefits, and aid to state and local governments.

The unprecedented $1.9 trillion stimulus package supports massive consumer acceleration, according to investment bank Cowen in a February 16 research note.

The program helps setup a macro environment that is bullish for the consumer, Cowen analyst John Kernan said in the note. 

"Consumer confidence in September 2020 made its biggest month-over-month gain since 2000 but has since contracted as COVID-19 cases domestically have rebounded from late-2020 lows," Kernan said. "We believe this will revert higher as COVID-19 cases wane over the coming months."

The analysts list three key drivers for consumer acceleration supported by the stimulus package:

1) $1,400 direct payments expected around mid March

2) Monthly payments to families with children starting in July

3) Unemployment insurance increases to $400 and extends until the end of August

"While the long-term broader effects of this fiscal policy on inflation, interest rates, currencies and taxes are unclear - the low-end consumer will receive a tremendous boost in 2021 (we note disposable income grew 17% in April of 2020 as stimulus flowed)," said Cowen analyst, John Kernan.

The stimulus package will be a tailwind for disposable income benefiting the already healthy and accelerating US consumer, but also the middle to lower income consumers, Kernan said.

The firm's monthly consumer tracker survey of 2,500 US adult consumers shows a significant acceleration in food stamp/EBT usage in 2020, following three years of flat, to declining, incidence. 

"The pandemic and high unemployment have given rise to heightened food insecurity among the US population, and are likely driving factors behind this increased usage in 2020," Kernan said.

Although the impact of stimulus is uncertain in the long-term in relation to inflation, interest rates and tax implications, Kernan and his team are expecting a tremendous boost for the low-end consumer, which will likely benefit discount retailers and the tobacco, beer and cannabis sectors.

More broadly, the team sees beneficiaries in the sporting goods, big box retail and restaurant sectors.

We list the 14 stocks set to be direct beneficiaries of the new stimulus with most upside to consensus expectations with the potential for valuation expansion.

1. Footlocker

Ticker:FL

Price target: $66.00

Price target upside (as of note publication): 26%

Analyst commentary: "FL valuation appears too cheap given the stake in GOAT and consensus estimates that are too low."

Source: Cowen 

2. Dicks Sporting Goods

Ticker:DKS

Price target: $87.00

Price target upside (as of note publication): 16%

Analyst commentary:"Dick's (DKS, $74.98) has made significant investments in curbside pick, data analytics and DCs to support e-commerce and other omni-channel initiatives, which continue to bear fruit and are underestimated by consensus."

Source: Cowen 

3. TJX Companies

Ticker:TJX

Price target: $76.00

Price target upside (as of note publication): 12%

Analyst commentary:"The macro set-up for the consumer is bullish, particularly at the low end, with the potential magnitude of increases in Personal Consumption Expenditure in supporting massive consumer acceleration. This is reinforced by $1.9T Fiscal Stimulus and mean reversion in savings and non-farm payrolls. While the long-term broader effects of this Fiscal policy on inflation, interest rates currencies and taxes are unclear -the low-end consumer will be receiving a tremendous boost in 2021. Among our coverage, we think the TJX, ROST and BURL could be positioned to benefit from this boost given the off-price channel's higher exposure to low-and-middle income consumers and higher cross-shopping characteristics among EBT users."

Source: Cowen

4. Ross Stores Inc

Ticker:ROST

Price target: $137.00

Price target upside (as of note publication): 15%

Analyst commentary:"The macro set-up for the consumer is bullish, particularly at the low end, with the potential magnitude of increases in Personal Consumption Expenditure in supporting massive consumer acceleration. This is reinforced by $1.9T Fiscal Stimulus and mean reversion in savings and non-farm payrolls. While the long-term broader effects of this Fiscal policy on inflation, interest rates currencies and taxes are unclear -the low-end consumer will be receiving a tremendous boost in 2021. Among our coverage, we think the TJX, ROST and BURL could be positioned to benefit from this boost given the off-price channel's higher exposure to low-and-middle income consumers and higher cross-shopping characteristics among EBT users."

Source: Cowen

5. Burlington Stores

Ticker:BURL

Price target: $264.00

Price target upside (as of note publication): 0.5%

Analyst commentary: "The macro set-up for the consumer is bullish, particularly at the low end, with the potential magnitude of increases in Personal Consumption Expenditure in supporting massive consumer acceleration. This is reinforced by $1.9T fiscal stimulus and mean reversion in savings and non-farm payrolls. While the long-term broader effects of this fiscal policy on inflation, interest rates currencies and taxes are unclear -the low-end consumer will be receiving a tremendous boost in 2021. Among our coverage, we think the TJX, ROST and BURL could be positioned to benefit from this boost given the off-price channel's higher exposure to low-and-middle income consumers and higher cross-shopping characteristics among EBT users."

Source: Cowen 

6.

Ticker:WMT

Price target: $170.00

Price target upside (as of note publication): 18%

Analyst commentary:"Meanwhile, we expect both outperform rated WMT and TGT will once again see a substantial benefit from additional stimulus. Both saw meaningful tailwinds to comps last spring, and we expect will once again be relative winners, and take outsized share of wallet."

Source: Cowen 

7.

Ticker:TGT

Price target: $230

Price target upside (as of note publication): 20%

Analyst commentary:"Meanwhile, we expect both outperform-rated WMT and TGT will once again see a substantial benefit from additional stimulus. Both saw meaningful tailwinds to comps last spring, and we expect will once again be relative winners, and take outsized share of wallet."

Source: Cowen 

8. Tapestry

Ticker:TPR

Price target: $42

Price target upside (as of note publication): 9%

Analyst commentary: "We believe outlet, logo, e-comm features, store pruning, and new product innovation can drive continued momentum. Recall in 2Q, TPR acquired >1.5mn new customers, ~50% of holiday sales were digital, and handbag average unit prices grew +15% y/y globally."

Source: Cowen 

9. Boot Barn Holdings

Ticker:BOOT

Price target: $68.00

Price target upside (as of note publication): 12%

Analyst commentary:"Boot Barn is also well positioned to benefit from another round of stimulus. Recall, in January trends significantly inflected as comps accelerated to +17%, including +20% in physical stores from+6% (stores +3%) in December."

Source: Cowen 

10. Constellation Brands

Ticker:STZ

Price target: $275

Price target upside (as of note publication): 14%

Analyst commentary:"Incremental discretionary income on top of an improvement in overall production levels should bode well for outperform-rated Constellation Brands (STZ; CP:$241.27) where sales growth is currently running at its highest levels in measured channels since mid-June."

Source: Cowen

11. Green Thumb Industries

Ticker:GTBIF

Price target: $30

Price target downside (as of note publication): -17%

Analyst commentary:"Lastly, for cannabis, past month incidence rates are highest among the under $50k cohort, which would also be a benefit to outperform-rated Green Thumb Industries (GTBIF;CP: $36.44) and Curaleaf (CURLF; CP: $16.87)."

Source: Cowen 

12. Curaleaf

Ticker:CURLF

Price target: $15

Price target downside (as of note publication): -11%

Analyst commentary:"Lastly, for cannabis, past month incidence rates are highest among the under $50k cohort, which would also be a benefit to Outperform rated Green Thumb Industries (GTBIF;CP: $36.44) and Curaleaf (CURLF; CP: $16.87)."

Source: Cowen 

13. Chipotle Mexican Grill

Ticker:CMG

Price target: $1,900

Price target upside (as of note publication): 24%

Analyst commentary:"While this will likely be a boon for the industry, this is "more positive" for company operated models that are domestic focused, given the operating leverage in the business models.We highlight outperform-rated Chipotle (CMG, $1,527.70) and Starbucks (SBUX, $105.30) that should benefit from trade up."

Source: Cowen 

14. Starbucks

Ticker:SBUX

Price target: $112

Price target upside (as of note publication): 6%

Analyst commentary:"While this will likely be a boon for the industry, this is "more positive" for company operated models that are domestic focused, given the operating leverage in the business models.We highlight outperform-rated Chipotle (CMG, $1,527.70) and Starbucks (SBUX, $105.30) that should benefit from trade up."

Source: Cowen 

Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, a man once touted as the next president, is on a downward spiral.

The Republican senator has found himself back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons after he took an ill-timed trip to Cancun, Mexico with his family during a catastrophic winter storm that left more than 20 people dead in his state. 

Cruz, the son of a Cuban immigrant, has been interested in politics from a young age. He quickly became a rising star in the right-wing of the party and gained attention for his conservative stances and strong public speaking skills.

But his refusal to accept the 2020 election result as well as his recent trip to Mexico, has made him one of the most talked-about people in Congress — for the wrong reasons. 

Scroll down to find out more about the life and career of the Texas senator. 

Rafael Edward Cruz was born on December 22, 1970, in Calgary, Canada. He started going by the name "Ted" at the age of 13.

Because he was born in Canada, Cruz held dual American and Canadian citizenship.

However, he formally gave up his Canadian citizenship in 2014 after questions about his eligibility to become US President.

Source: The New Yorker

Cruz's parents, Rafael and Eleanor, met at the University of Austin while studying mathematics. After they moved to Canada, they set up an oil-services company.

Both parents had been previously married. Cruz has two half-sisters from his father's earlier marriage, one of which died in 2011 after an accidental overdose.

He does not speak about them publicly. 

Source: ABC News, McClatchy DC Bureau

Cruz's father, Rafael, was born and raised in Cuba. As a teenager, he strongly aligned himself with the anti-Batista movement and fled to Texas in 1957 after Batista agents badly beat him.

He gained political asylum four years after his arrival and became a citizen in 2005.

Rafael's childhood story often provided inspirational fire to Cruz's speeches, interviews, and debate performances later in life. 

But some of Rafael's former comrades and friends disputed some of his descriptions of his role in the Cuban resistance.

In a 2015 New York Times article, Leonor Arestuche, a student leader in the 1950s, said that Rafel was a "ojalateros," or wishful thinker.

She said the term was used for "people wishing and praying that Batista would fall — but not doing much to act on it," according to the Times.

Rafael eventually went on to become a minister and called himself Pastor Cruz. While he's not affiliated with any church, he became a sought-out speaker and Tea Party celebrity. 

Source: New York Times, The New Yorker

Cruz's family moved to Houston in 1974, where he attended high school and started expressing an interest in law and politics.

Cruz's parents had separated at the time but reconciled shortly after. They eventually got a divorce in 1997 after Cruz finished law school but would still make appearances together at some public events.

Cruz was an ambitious, high-achieving, and politically-minded student in his early teens. But even though he was top of his class, he also had a desire to be popular.

In his book, he wrote: "Midway through junior high school, I decided that I'd had enough of being the unpopular nerd. I remember sitting up one night asking a friend why I wasn't one of the popular kids. I ended up staying up most of that night thinking about it. 'Okay, well, what is it that the popular kids do? I will consciously emulate that,'" the Guardian reported. 

Source: McClatchy DC Bureau , The Guardian

When he was in his early teens, Cruz's parents enrolled him in an after-school program called the Free Enterprise Institute that taught students free-market philosophies of economists such as Milton Friedman and Friedrich Hayek.

"So we'd meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays, for a couple of hours each night, and study the Constitution, read the Federalist Papers, read the Anti-Federalist Papers, read the debates on ratification, and so on," Cruz told the New Yorker of the time. "And we memorized a shortened mnemonic version of the Constitution."

Source: The New Yorker

The club sparked his interest in debate, and it was here where he also developed his strong oratory skills.

"Ted was just an amazing speaker at fourteen, by far the most impressive student we ever had," a former teacher at the after-school program told The New Yorker. 

"Ted was just an ideal student because he just absorbed everything, and he came from a conservative family in the first place," he added.

Source: The New Yorker

As a senior in high school, Cruz had already sketched out a five-part plan for his life: go to Princeton, attend Harvard Law, become a lawyer, run for office — and eventually, win the US presidency.

Cruz articulated his towering ambitions in a video that was apparently filmed in 1988 when he was a senior at the Second Baptist School in Houston.

"Aspirations? Is that like sweat on my butt?" he jokes in the video. "Well, my aspiration is to, I don't know, be in a teen tit film like that guy who played Horatio — you know, he was in Malibu Bikini Beach shop? Well, other than that, take over the world. World domination. Yeah, rule everything. Rich, powerful, that sort of stuff."

Cruz was also heavily involved in extracurricular activities, debate society, and played American football, soccer, and basketball. 

"He was very well-liked by the teachers and his classmates and was generally considered a prodigy," John Fuex, a former student at the school, told the Guardian.

Source: The Guardian

Over the years, Cruz started formulating his political outlook — one that has barely wavered since. The Senator denies human-made climate change, supports free trade, is pro-life, rejects marriage equality, and is in favor of the death penalty.

Source: Politico

In 2015, he stated that the allowance of same-sex marriage by the Supreme Court was the "very definition of tyranny."

Source: Huffington Post

Aside from his father, Cruz has named Ronald Reagan as his hero. According to the New Yorker, Cruz had a three-panel painting of Reagan in his office.

The senator also has a leather rectangle branded with the words "IT CAN BE DONE"— a replica of the sign that sat on Reagan's desk in the Oval Office, according to GQ Magazine. 

Source: The New Yorker, GQ Magazine

Cruz went on to Princeton where he graduated top of his class in 1992. During his time at the Ivy League school, Cruz made a name for himself as a national debating prodigy.

In 1992, he was named National Speaker of the Year and, with his debate partner David Panton, Team of the Year by the American Parliamentary Debate Association.

Source: Princeton University

He then attended Harvard Law School a few years after Barack Obama. His criminal law professor, Alan Derschowitz, said of him at the time: "Cruz was off-the-charts brilliant."

Source: The Washington Post

Cruz went on to work as a policy advisor in the George W. Bush Presidential campaign in 1999. This was also where he met his wife, Heidi, who was also working on the campaign while taking a break from Harvard Business School.

"The best part of the campaign was I met my wife. We were one of eight marriages that came out of the campaign, so I tell young people, 'If you want to meet your spouse, go join a political campaign,'" Cruz told the New Yorker in 2014.

Source:Insider, The New Yorker

The two hit it off quickly and got married four months later. They would go on to have two daughters, Caroline and Catherine, who are now 12 and 10 years old respectively.

Cruz famously insisted they play "A Whole New World" from the popular Disney movie "Aladdin" at the end of their wedding ceremony even though Heidi was strongly opposed to it.  

After getting married, they both worked in the Bush administration, with Heidi in the US Treasury Department and Ted at the Federal Trade Commission.

Source:Insider

But Cruz wasn't satisfied with his career in Washington, so he accepted a job as Texas' solicitor general in 2003. His job brought him to Austin, so Cruz had to carry on a long-distance marriage for two years.

Long-distance was not easy for the couple, so Heidi eventually left her dream job in DC as an aide to Condoleezza Rice on the National Security Council to join him in Texas. 

Heidi revealed in an Atlantic piece that she had an emotional breakdown one night in 2005 over the move to Texas.

She said she became so overwhelmed by her unhappiness that she broke down and sat on an expressway until a police officer found her and brought her to the station.

"It was a challenging time," Ted remembered. "Because she was struggling with having given up a professional post that was very meaningful to her."

Cruz worked as solicitor general until 2008 and then worked in a private law firm in Houston.

Source:Insider

During his time as solicitor general, Cruz started wearing his famous black ostrich-skin cowboy boots, which he called his "argument boots."

"When I was Texas solicitor general, I did every argument in these boots," he told GQ in 2013. "The one court that I was not willing to wear them in was the US Supreme Court, and it was because my former boss and dear friend William Rehnquist was still chief justice. He and I were very close—he was a wonderful man—but he was very much a stickler for attire."

After Rehnquist passed away, Cruz went on to wear the boots in the Supreme Court.

Source: GQ Magazine

When a Senate seat opened up in the 2012 election, Cruz decided to go for it. Calling himself a "constitutional conservative, Cruz was backed by the Republican Tea Party movement.

Source: The New Yorker 

One year later, he was elected to the US Senate and became the first Hispanic American from Texas to do so.

But Cruz stirred up debate upon his arrival in Washington. Several months after his appointment, he was called "Wacko bird" by the late Sen. John M Cain. He later embraced the name.

Source: GQ Magazine

Cruz first achieved national recognition in September 2013, when he staged a 21-hour talking marathon on the Senate floor against the Affordable Care Act, a move that eventually led to the government shutdown.

Tweet Embed:
//twitter.com/mims/statuses/382668484695453696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Pic of @SenTedCruz daughters as he reads them Green Eggs & Ham. #MakeDCListenpic.twitter.com/UXqFg0xrPB

In the best-known part of the speech, he read Dr. Seuss's "Green Eggs and Ham" as a bedtime story to his two young daughters watching in Houston. Heidi suggested he read the book.

In his speech, he repeated an analogy between the "oppression" of Obamacare and the oppression that his father, Rafael, faced as a young man in Cuba.

Source: Insider

Cruz announced he was running for president of the United States in the 2016 election. He ended up placing second behind Former President Donald Trump in the Republican primary.

Source: The Guardian

The political feud between President Donald Trump and Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas during the 2016 election was extremely bitter. The two had no problems attacking each other's wives, citizenship, and integrity.

At one point, they even threatened to sue, accusing each other of lying and cheating for various reasons. It was during this time that Trump also gave Cruz the notorious nickname "lyin' Ted." 

Trump famously tweeted out a side-by-side photo of Heidi and his wife Melania to attack Heidi's appearance and accused Ted's father of being involved in the assassination of former President John F. Kennedy.

"I don't get angry often," Cruz said after Trump tweeted the photos. "But you mess with my wife, you mess with my kids, that will do it every time. Donald Trump, you're a sniveling coward. Leave Heidi the hell alone."

Source: Insider

Cruz finally came around to make an endorsement shortly before the 2016 election. The senator became an outspoken Trump supporter and the two worked together on Republican legislation.

 In 2018, Trump decided that Cruz was no longer "lyin' Ted" and called him "Beautiful Ted."

Source: Insider

After Trump lost the 2020 election to President Joe Biden, Cruz provoked a widespread political and popular backlash after filing objections to Biden's victory certification.

After the January 6 insurrection, many lawmakers, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, condemned him and argued he bore responsibility for the riot and the deaths it caused.

Cruz faced a storm of controversy when he flew to Cancún, Mexico, with his wife and daughters amid an unprecedented winter weather catastrophe and pandemic.

Critics ripped into Cruz on social media after news of his trip made headlines around the world. 

Many recalled the "Lyin' Ted," nickname that former president Donald Trump used for Cruz and re-tooled it to highlight the blunder,  naming him "Flyin' Ted."

Source: Global News

Cruz has been facing mounting pressure to resign. According to a YouGov poll this week, the senator's approval rating among Republicans has dropped by more than 20 percent.

Source: Newsweek

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended the way white-collar workers work, with many sleeping, working, eating, and resting within the same four walls.

Workers have adapted surprisingly well. According to an IBM study of 25,000 people, 54% of adults would opt to work from home most of the time after the pandemic.

That trend is similarly reflected at Google, which recently found that less than 10% of its employees want to return to the office full-time post-pandemic. In the survey of more than 15,000 Googlers across its Europe, the Middle East and Africa offices, 60% of Googlers said they would like to work from their assigned office between one and four days per week.

With the white-collar workforce looking increasingly unlikely to return to a pre-2020 model, Insider sat down with Laura Mae Martin, Google's in-house executive productivity advisor, to hear her thoughts on maintaining – and increasing – productivity in the new hybrid world. 

1. Know if you're running a spring or a marathon.

"There are two broad groups in this whole situation," says Martin. "Some people stopped all travel and it's just them at home and they feel like: 'Wow, I'm not commuting, I have more time than ever.'

"I call those people the marathoners, and they feel like, 'I wake up, I work, I decide when I'm done, I make dinner, and I go to bed.' There's not a lot of breaking up the day for those people." 

But for others, she says, it will be a lot harder to keep up a constant churn of work throughout the day. 

"We also have the opposite group: "My kids are home all the time, I have never had less time in my life, I am trying to cram in my work in between naps or virtual school or whatever else," and those are our sprinters. 

"If you're a sprinter, more than ever you need to know – during that two hours you have while your kids are in virtual school – what are you going to accomplish? It's not sitting at your desk, reading emails, trying to figure it out. The time is wasted very quickly.

"For marathoners, you can't just work all day. Think about what you plan to accomplish. It's not just about working but working on the right things. I think we've started to realize that we have both types in our working groups." 

2. Take time to decompress.

"At the outset of the pandemic, none of us knew how long this would last, and we kind of just threw our laptop on the kitchen table, and a couple of months in we're like: 'Wow, I need to find a way to structure this for myself, and learn how to unplug.'" 

Martin encourages introducing something like a "No Tech Tuesday," where you shut off all electronic screens after lunch and take time to focus on the smaller things.

"I think people are so invested in their devices that it can weigh up on you. I've had thousands of Googlers sign up to this challenge where they try and give themselves something else to do, whether it's cleaning or reading or board games or something you can do with your family.

"The number one feedback from that is people say they sleep better and they feel more refreshed, just from taking a few hours off before bed." 

3. In stormy times, fashion yourself an umbrella.

"We all have pressures from family or work or inefficiencies in our departments, but I think about it like an umbrella. No matter how treacherous the weather, and the pandemic has been a particularly big storm, how can I put up a little umbrella to slow the storm a bit?

"One thing I do working with executives is taking some of these principles, like finding balance within a team, is there a way of making sure we can block off one night a week that works for everyone in a team to meet, so everyone knows when to expect it? Or do we institute a 'no-meeting Friday'? These can all help make you feel like you've got a bit more control."

4. Employees want the recipe for success – why not use 'snack size to-do' lists?

"When I think about planning my day," Martin tells Insider, "I equate it to reading a book about healthy eating. You know, you start with these chapters at the beginning about the science around health and so on, but what do people flip to? The recipes. They want to know straight up: How do I implement this in my daily life?

"My worksheet is like that, it includes: my top three priorities for the next day, including how long they might take, as well as "snack-size to do's." These are things that take ten minutes or less. The point of those is, if a meeting ends early or something, you just know you can make this quick phone call or send this email and just tick them off.

"A lot of people have a to-do list and suddenly they have a packed schedule, and it's all over the place." 

5. Remember Dwight Eisenhower's take on 'urgent' versus 'important' issues.

"Sometimes things come up out of nowhere and then that becomes the main focus for the rest of the day. Dwight Eisenhower distinguished between 'urgent' versus 'important' matrix, and using language like that can help – is it urgent? Is it important? If it's the former, then it's OK to blow out the rest of your day for it.

"One particular exec I met did this thing where he would block after lunch, between like 1pm and 2pm, where he would deal with 'urgent' matters. And if there wasn't anything urgent on the slate, then he'd already freed up some time." 

6. Step back and look at the bigger picture.

"I really think that managers, being responsible for checking in on employees and measuring their performance, should be thinking about wider, macro goals that others aren't used to.

"Maybe there are days where an employee sends no emails, but there might be some where they send 100. There's not a lot of point in looking into daily performance if you're not stepping back and thinking about the bigger picture."

Did it feel like the market turned upside down last week?

Over the last few days, stocks went through one of their worst stretches since last March. A strong jobless claims report last Thursday extended the sudden rise in bond yields as investors wondered if the economy's revival would lead to greater inflation, and to higher interest rates if the Federal Reserve ends its stimulus programs.

The spike in bond yields caused a sell-off in high-growth stocks, like tech, that have been at the forefront of the market for more than a decade. A big contingent of investors have said for years that a sustained increase in interest rates would be bad news for those types of stocks, which dominate major indexes.

High-dividend bond proxies like real estate companies also slumped last week.

But the most significant questions are where this is going, and whether it's going to be a short blip or a long-term problem for stocks.

Credit Suisse analysts say the "problem level" for stocks is around 2%. That would mean stocks aren't in the danger zone yet, but suddenly they're not so far off.

"On the global strategy team we can see the 10 year potentially rising to 1.8-2%," wrote a team of analysts including Andrew Garthwaite and Robert Griffiths. 

That's because of the gap between manufacturing growth and the amount of growth that's priced into yields right now, the possibility that the economy will expand more than expected this year thanks to ongoing stimulus efforts, and the increase in US wealth and consumer savings over that time.

The contours of a rising yield trade are pretty well-known. Banks do well as yields rise because lending becomes more profitable, and they make more money from interest. Greater inflation sends commodity prices higher, which helps energy companies.

Yields tend to rise that way during periods of strong economic growth, which means consumer spending — good news for consumer-oriented companies as well.

But those are general guidelines. To help investors pick the best stocks for that environment, the Credit Suisse analysts screened the firm's "Buy"-rated stocks to find the ones whose five-year performance correlates most closely with the performance of the 10-year US Treasury note.

Those stocks are ranked here from lowest to highest based on the strength of that correlation.

SEE ALSO: The head of the world's largest miner told us the 3-part strategy the company followed to thrive during the pandemic, and the commodities he's still bullish on today

15. Synchrony Financial

Ticker: SYF

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $23.4 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 60%

Source: Credit Suisse

14. EOG Resources

Ticker: EOG

Sector: Energy

Market cap: $42.1 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 61%

Source: Credit Suisse

13. Citigroup

Ticker: C

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $142.5 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 62%

Source: Credit Suisse

12. Discover Financial Services

Ticker: DFS

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $30.0 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 62%

Source: Credit Suisse

11. Wells Fargo

Ticker: WFC

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $158.0 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 62%

Source: Credit Suisse

10. Royal Caribbean Cruises

Ticker: RCL

Sector: Consumer discretionary

Market cap: $22.9 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 63%

Source: Credit Suisse

9. Goldman Sachs

Ticker: GS

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $113.5 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 64%

Source: Credit Suisse

8. American Financial Group

Ticker: AFG

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $9.8 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 64%

Source: Credit Suisse

7. Morgan Stanley

Ticker: MS

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $125.7 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 66%

Source: Credit Suisse

6. ConocoPhillips

Ticker: COP

Sector: Energy

Market cap: $73.9 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 66%

Source: Credit Suisse

5. Delta Air Lines

Ticker: DAL

Sector: Industrials

Market cap: $31.6 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 66%

Source: Credit Suisse

4. Voya Financial

Ticker: VOYA

Sector: Financial

Market cap: $7.6 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 67%

Source: Credit Suisse

3. Capital One Financial

Ticker: COF

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $57 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 73%

Source: Credit Suisse

2. Bank of America

Ticker: BAC

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $313.4 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 76%

Source: Credit Suisse

1. JPMorgan Chase

Ticker: JPM

Sector: Financials

Market cap: $466.7 billion

Correlation to 10-year yield: 77%

Source: Credit Suisse

The new Netflix thriller "Behind Her Eyes," which debuted last week, became its most popular show this week.

Familiar favorites like "Bridgerton,""Cocomelon," and "Firefly Lane" are also still holding strong.

Every week, the streaming search engine Reelgood compiles for Insider a list of which TV shows have been most prominent on Netflix's daily top 10 lists of its most popular titles that week.

SEE ALSO: 'WandaVision' has taken the throne as the top streaming original series in the US this week

9. "Bridgerton" (Netflix original, 2020-present)

Description: "The eight close-knit siblings of the Bridgerton family look for love and happiness in London high society. Inspired by Julia Quinn's bestselling novels."

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 89%

What critics said: "It ultimately just feels hollow — but, unlike me, your mileage may vary."— BuzzFeed (season one)

8. "The Crew" (Netflix original, 2021-present)

Description: "Life in the garage swerves off track for a NASCAR crew chief and his tight-knit racing team when a new boss steps in and shakes things up."

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 17%

What critics said: "The cast is charming enough, tackling their roles with an understated kind of ease rather than the exaggeration present in so many other sitcoms ... But the characterizations aren't enough to make up for the fact that The Crew just isn't that funny."— AV Club (season one)

7. "Tribes of Europa" (Netflix original, 2021-present)

Description: "In post-apocalyptic Europe, amid wars among microstates, three siblings fight for survival as a greater threat looms over the continent."

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 83%

What critics said: "Though it does little that hasn't been seen before, fans of dystopian drama are bound to enjoy Tribes of Europa, which is packed with suspense, bloodshed and power struggles."— Den of Geek (season one)

6. "Cocomelon" (YouTube, 2020-present)

Description: "Learn letters, numbers, animal sounds and more with J.J. in this musical series that brings fun times with nursery rhymes for the whole family!"

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: N/A

What critics said: N/A

5. "Crime Scene: The Vanishing at Cecil Hotel" (Netflix original, 2021)

Description: "The notorious Cecil Hotel grows in infamy when guest Elisa Lam vanishes. From the creator of 'The Ted Bundy Tapes,' a dive into crime's darkest places."

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 48%

What critics said: "Berlinger somewhat overdoes it with the creepy dramatic re-enactments, but Crime Scene: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel benefits from a raft of solid talking heads and a central whodunit that proves continually intriguing."— Daily Beast

4. "Firefly Lane" (Netflix original, 2021-present)

Description: "Best friends Tully and Kate support each other through good times and bad with an unbreakable bond that carries them from their teens to their 40s."

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 46%

What critics said: "Firefly Lane has more of an edge than its gentle, ethereal title might suggest, a brittle darkness stalking the goofy plot developments and occasionally groan-inducing writing."— Vanity Fair (season one)

3. "iCarly" (Nickelodeon, 2007-2012)

Description: "A cyberstar is born when 13-year-old Carly creates an Internet series with a little help from her best friend Sam and neighbor Freddie."

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: N/A

What critics said: "As the plausibility of the set-piece disappears, iCarly leaves with a goodbye that is sweet without being noxious and self-referential without being a long inside joke."— AV Club (season five)

2. "Good Girls" (NBC, 2018-present)

Description: "Three suburban moms orchestrate a local grocery store heist to escape financial ruin and establish independence — together."

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 87%

What critics said: "That was a fun season premiere and a great set-up for the rest of the season. It felt like the calm before the proverbial crap storm that is sure to blow in."— TV Fanatic (season three)

1. "Behind Her Eyes" (Netflix original, 2021)

Description: "A single mother enters a world of twisted mind games when she begins an affair with her psychiatrist boss while secretly befriending his mysterious wife."

Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 59%

What critics said: "I like a good twist, but the twist in Behind Her Eyes is a groaner. The series switches genres, and the final chapter felt to me like a slap in the face — when it didn't make me laugh out loud at the absurdity."— Boston Globe

From special agents to computer scientists to administrative assistants, jobs at the FBI are shrouded in mystery. 

Insider dug into current job postings at the government agency in an attempt to clarify job postings, requirements, and pay, so that you don't have to. 

Our findings show that some positions are just ordinary roles — administrative assistants, HR positions, or computer scientists. The roles, while based at a top-secret agency, would look similar to working anywhere else. However, job descriptions for other roles like special agent and counter-terrorism analyst sound like they're straight from the movies. 

Find out below what FBI jobs you might be qualified for. 

SEE ALSO: We went inside Secret Service boot camp where recruits get top secret training for their 'zero-fail mission'

Special agents

One of the most popularly dramatized positions within government agencies, special agents are employed by the FBI for a variety of positions and specialties. However, before someone can become a special agent, there is a significant application process that includes a physical fitness test, a few exams, and an in-depth background check. 

Aside from passing the tests and exams, applicants must also be a US citizen, between 23 and 36 years old, hold a four-year degree, and have at least two years of professional work experience. 

Many federal employees are paid according to a schedule. During training, special agents are paid on the GL schedule, which lays out pay for federal law enforcement officers, and typical pay is just over $50,000, according to latest pay tables. Upon graduation, pay is adjusted based on geographic area, but the site says that special agents typically reach a salary of about $80,000 within five years. 

Computer scientists

The FBI has a few different job postings for computer scientists. According to job descriptions, the computer scientists are charged with handling systems, from procurement to various types of installation and maintenance. 

Like special agents, computer scientists must go through an assessment. This assessment is less intense than the special agent assessment, and simply grades the candidate on various competencies, including analytical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and more. 

Salary depends on experience and education. For applicants with the lowest requirements — including an undergraduate degree and one year of experience — salary would be between $50,860 - $66,120. For the highest combination of education and experience — which requires a doctorate level of education — salary would be between $100,940 - $131,223. 

Below are links to current openings for computer scientists:

• Computer Scientist - Seattle Field Office
• Computer Scientist - Security Division

Security personnel

Security personnel within the FBI are charged with tasks like planning and managing travel,  understanding overseas security situations, tracking information related to security threats, and more.  Many security positions are only open to current FBI employees, but there are a few that are open to the general public. 

Below is a list of a few open positions, along with the pay listed in job descriptions. 

• Lead Security Specialist: $122,530 - $159,286
• Supervisory Security Specialist - Chief Security Officer, Albuquerque Field Office: $109,571 - $142,439
• Security Specialist, Columbia, SC:  $64,649 - $84,049
• Security Specialist, Charlotte Field Office: $78,484 - $121,326

Analysts

Analysts in the FBI are charged with understanding the depths of their field's subject matter. From cyber threats to terrorism to finance and budget, analysts are on the job to report and understand what is happening that impacts their department. 

For example, the cyber division analyst is charged with managing software development teams and preparing analysis for the Cyber Technology Review Committee. The intelligence analyst, on the other hand, identifies, research, and reports on terrorist threats and how the US is responding. 

Below we've listed a few roles that are currently open. Visit the FBI's site for a full list. 

• Management and Program Analyst, Cyber Division: $122,530 - $159,286
• Management and Program Analyst, Terrorist Screening Center: $122,530 - $159,286
• Supervisory Budget Analyst, Finance Division: $112,548 - $146,309
• Intelligence Analyst, National Counter-terrorism Center: $72,030 - $157,709

Human resources

Of the departments listed, the FBI's human resources department has the highest number of jobs currently posted. However, most postings here are calls for job-searchers to apply for talent networks run by the FBI. 

These talent networks note that they don't necessarily have vacancies right now. Instead, applicants are asked to submit their information. If it feels like a fit, the FBI will extend a formal invite to information sessions. These posted talent networks allow interested applicants to get more information before formally applying. The site has postings for special agent talent networks, forensic examiner talent networks, and electronics technician talent networks.

However, there are also actual jobs posted within the HR department.  We've listed a few below, along with salaries disclosed in the job descriptions. 

• Employee Assistance Counselor: $55,756 - $103,309
• Administrative Specialist: $37,301 - $71,764
• Supervisory Administrative Specialist: $55,204 - $86,021

The year has already got off to a winning start, with many key developments in the new space race.

The most notable is the impressive — and terrifying — landing of NASA's Perseverance Rover on Mars. It successfully touched down on the red planet on February 18 and landed in a deep crater called Jezero. 

The result was deeply satisfying for those who have been tracking the progress of the rover, which had been travelling to its destination for nearly seven months. The rover has been continuing to beam back photos of its descent to Mars. 

Elsewhere, the UAE space agency released the first photo of Mars taken by its Hope Probe, while China's Tianwen-1 mission successfully maneuvered into orbit around Mars earlier this month. 

Meanwhile, Spanish startup Zero 2 Infinity has big plans to send humans into space in giant helium balloons for a cost of $132,000.

The comparatively cheaper price may lure some prospective travellers away from SpaceX's Mars mission, which aims to send humans to the planet by 2026. Some experts have called into question whether this will really happen, however. 

SpaceX has also been busy launching many more satellites. It recently sent 60 into orbit but the Falcon 9 rocket's booster did not successfully complete its landing on February 16. 

The S.S. Katherine Johnson, a space supply ship carrying cargo to the International Space Station, blasted off from Virginia on February 20. The ship is named after the brilliant mathematician whose story was depicted in the 2016 film 'Hidden Figures.' It arrived at its destination on February 22. 

Finally, space fans can expect Jeff Bezos' company Blue Origin to start commanding more attention. When the Amazon CEO announced he was stepping down from the role later this year, he said he planned to dedicate more time to the company.

Blue Origin's website states: "We're committed to building a road to space so our children can build the future." 

Perseverance landed on Mars in dramatic style

Perseverance's first color photo

The UAE Space Agency is also making Mars a priority

Zero 2 Infinity ...and beyond

SpaceX's Starlink launches

Blue Origin's bold vision

China's Tianwen-1 mission