Best Blenders under $100 (2023)

A good quality blender is a versatile gadget for whipping up breakfast smoothies, delicious milkshakes, and lip-smacking sauces.

But it can be difficult to find a blender that is:

  • Easy to clean
  • Doesn’t take up too much countertop space
  • Versatile
  • Long-lasting
  • and budget-friendly 

Some blenders cost hundreds of dollars, making it hard to know the difference between a budget-friendly blender and a top of the line model.

To help, we have compiled a list of the 1o best blenders under $100 that do not sacrifice on efficiency. We looked for blenders that are dishwasher safe, BPA free, and offer customizable speed controls.

We looked for quality of materials, the type of design of each blender, and what customers are reporting on Amazon reviews to help write this guide.

10 Best Blenders Under $100 – Quick Review

  1. Ninja Professional Countertop Blender BL610
  2. Nutribullet 13-Piece High-Speed Blender
  3. Oster Pro 1200 Blender
  4. KitchenAid 5-Speed Blender
  5. Cuisinart CPB-300 BPA-Free Blender
  6. Hamilton Beach Blender
  7. Mueller Ultra-Stick Immersion
  8. Magic Bullet Blender (11-piece set)
  9. Aicook Professional Countertop Blender
  10. Nutri Ninja Pro Personal Blender

1. Ninja Professional Countertop Blender BL610

If splurging on kitchen appliances and tools is your idea of a shopping spree, you must be familiar with the brand, Ninja. Its Professional Countertop Blender BL610 is the forerunner among budget blenders and we’ll tell you why. It is sturdy and comes with a 1000-watt motor that enables you to experiment all you want with new recipes!

The 72 oz capacity is also large enough for preparing large batches of smoothies, overnight oats for the whole family, etc. Moreover, its six blades have different settings that allow crushing ice and frozen fruits efficiently. However, the only downside of these powerful blades is the difficulty in cleaning them.

Pros:

  • 6-blade system and different speed settings are powerful enough for crushing ice
  • Large capacity yet lightweight
  • Easy to use for beginners
  • Surprisingly quiet for a 1000-watt blender
  • Dishwasher safe
  • BPA safe
  • Durable base
  • One-year warranty
  • Complimentary recipe book

Cons:

  • Difficult to clean
  • Plastic container is prone to breakage
  • Overheats during prolonged usage

How to Clean the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender BL610

To clean the Ninja Professional Countertop Blender BL610, you can follow these steps:

  1. Unplug the blender from the electrical outlet and disassemble it by removing the pitcher, blade assembly, and lid.
  2. Rinse the pitcher, blade assembly, and lid under running water to remove any large food particles.
  3. Fill the pitcher with warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
  4. Reassemble the blender and secure the lid tightly.
  5. Turn the blender on for a few seconds to allow the soapy water to clean the blade and pitcher.
  6. Turn the blender off and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
  7. Carefully disassemble the blender again and rinse all parts thoroughly under running water to remove any soap residue.
  8. Dry all parts with a clean towel or let them air dry completely before storing.
  9. For tough stains or food buildup, you can also use a mixture of warm water and baking soda to soak the parts for a few minutes before cleaning.
  10. Make sure to clean the blender after every use to prevent bacteria and odors from building up.

Warranty and Return Policy

The Ninja Professional Countertop Blender BL610 comes with a warranty and return policy. According to the manufacturer’s website, the blender comes with a one-year limited warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use and service for one year from the date of purchase.

If you experience any issues with the blender within this warranty period, you can contact the manufacturer’s customer service for assistance. They may offer to repair or replace the defective part or the entire blender, depending on the nature of the problem.

Regarding the return policy, it may depend on where you purchased the blender from. If you purchased the blender from a retailer, you should check their return policy. If you purchased it directly from the manufacturer, they may have a return policy in place that allows you to return the blender within a certain period if you are not satisfied with it. You can check their website or contact their customer service for more information.

2. NutriBullet 13-Piece High-Speed Blender

The NutriBullet 13-Piece High-Speed Blender is another affordable pick best suited for smaller servings of nutritious smoothies, soups, baby food, etc. The 600-watt bullet blender works well with small portions, perfect for those living alone and always on the go.

The fact that this handy blender does not create any waste ensures you get all the nutrients of the fruit or vegetable.

Moreover, there is a safety switch that turns on automatically when the cup is attached so it is safe to use for kids as well. The cups of various sizes are also convenient enough for storage and carrying to work for a quick healthy snack.

Pros:

  • Quick and easy to use
  • Safe for children
  • Stylish design
  • BPA-free plastic cups of different sizes
  • Retains the nutrients of the ingredients
  • Durable body
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Milling and extracting blades for different functions
  • Recipe book included

Cons:

  • Not powerful enough to crush ice
  • Limited warranty period
  • Small capacity
  • Relatively heavy for a bullet blender

3. Oster Pro 1200 Blender

The Oster Pro 12 is a combination blender that works efficiently for blending and food processing. With a strong 12-watt motor, various speed settings and presets, one can crush ice, frozen fruits, and veggies within seconds. The various cups and pitchers offer a wide range for blending and processing food of different quantities.

Plus, the 6-cup Boroclass pitcher, the  24-ounce Blend N Go smoothie cup, and the 5-cup BPA-free food processing bowl provide the perfect balance between glass and plastic materials. Although the overall design is not the most durable, the pitcher itself is sturdy enough for everyday use.

Oster offers a warranty period of 10 years for the metal drive along with a regular 3-year warranty period.

Pros

  • Several speed settings and presets for seamless blending, grinding, processing, etc.
  • Stainless steel blades
  • 1200-watt motor and 900 watts for total crushing of ice and frozen ingredients
  • Wide variety of cups and pitchers offer the best of both materials— plastic and glass
  • Elegant and stylish design
  • Impressively lengthy warranty period
  • Includes a food processor attachment

Cons

  • Not very sturdy
  • Complicated to use
  • Heavy

4. KitchenAid 5 Speed Blender

The KitchenAid 5-speed blender with its BPA-free 56 ounce pitcher is the best blender for smoothies. The intelli-speed motor control with its Soft Start feature blends the most perfect green smoothies, milkshakes, nut butter, etc. The blender uses 550 watts of power which is relatively less powerful than other blenders on this list.


KitchenAid ensures a reliable and efficient blending experience with its consistency sensors, stainless steel blades, and a die-cast metal base.

KitchenAid’s dishwasher safe pitcher offers a capacity of 60 oz and is durably designed to resist scratches and stains.

Pros

  • Impressive 5-year warranty period
  • BPA-free and dishwasher safe
  • Durable, high-quality pitcher
  • Soft start and intelli-speed features for smooth and reliable blending
  • Stainless steel blade assembly
  • Sturdy die-cast metal base

Cons

  • Cleaning is difficult
  • Not as powerful

5. Cuisinart CPB-300 BPA-Free Blender

Lightweight and compact, the Cuisinart CPB-300 BPA-Free Blender may come off as a smoothie blender at first but it is actually quite versatile in the kitchen. The heavy-duty motor sits on a sturdy base offering more longevity while the interchangeable blade assemblies offer versatility.

The touchpad and LED light indication make this blender easy to use, even among cooking beginners!


The wide variety of jars and cups are made of BPA-free plastic and dishwasher-safe, and even act as great travel mugs.

While this blender is not powerful enough for crushing large quantities of ice, it is capable of blending smaller portions for smoothies, soups, protein shakes, and so on.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Simple interface— touchpad, LED light indicating the speed of the blender
  • Two blade assemblies and various containers of different sizes
  • BPA-free and dishwasher safe
  • Attractive design
  • 3-year warranty
  • Recommended for smoothies, purees, sauces, etc.

Cons

  • Not powerful enough for crushing ice
  • Small capacity

6. Hamilton Beach 58148A Blender

The multi-functional and powerful Hamilton Beach 58148A Power Elite Blender is your one-stop solution to all your kitchen needs. Its unique Wave Action technology pulls the ingredients towards its stainless steel Ice Sabre blades for uniform consistency and no waste.


The BPA-free glass pitcher is sturdy and features a spout for easy and mess-free pouring. Although its 12 different functions ensure more functionality, you may need some time to figure out how to use this versatile blender to its full potential.

This affordable blender is dishwasher-safe and comes with a 3-year warranty period.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • 3-year warranty
  • BPA-free glass jar and dishwasher safe parts
  • 12 functions for maximum functionality
  • Wave Action technology for smoother purees, richer smoothies, and thicker milkshakes!
  • Designed to ensure no mess

Cons

  • Interface is not beginner-friendly
  • Less powerful motor
  • Lesser capacity
  • Prolonged use may cause breakage

7. Mueller Ultra-Stick Immersion Blender

If you need a reliable immersion blender, look no further. The Mueller Ultra-Stick Powerful Multi-Purpose Hand Blender will take care of your kitchen needs while keeping your budget intact.

The different speed controls and interchangeable blade and whisk attachments ensure efficient versatility— from whipping nut butter to beating eggs and more. It is easy to disassemble and clean, and compact enough to store in smaller places.


The Mueller Ultra-Stick even offers an ergonomic handle to ensure maximum grip while blending.

We would recommend this product as a personal blender since it is not convenient for working with large quantities.

Pros

  • Versatile and compact
  • Easy to use, clean, and store
  • Powerful and durable copper motor with various speed controls
  • Interchangeable whisk and blade attachments
  • 2-year limited warranty

Cons

  • Delicate material

8. Magic Bullet Blender 11-Piece Set

Why waste your money on old-fashioned, heavy blenders when the Magic Bullet Blender can be your go-to kitchen appliance. This effective blender can grind, chop, whip, etc. while being compact enough for traveling.

A major plus for blender buyers: Everything in this set is interchangeable and you do not need to spend extra bucks on its accessories.


Plus, it is not only lightweight but also offers a small footprint, making it easier to store in tiny spaces.

Because of this, even though it has 11 pieces, it is surprisingly quite easy to use, even for beginners.

Finally, this portable blender is dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Dishwasher-safe
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Durably built
  • Various sizes of jars and cups are perfect for fulfilling one’s personal blending needs
  • Interchangeable accessories

Cons

  • Not suitable for crushing hard ingredients like ice

9. Aicook Professional Countertop Blender

Made of TRITAN material, the Aicook Professional Countertop Blender is the best budget option for crushing ice. With 1450-watt power and 70 oz capacity, this blender is a beast in the kitchen.


The six-blade system can crush the smallest ingredients to form a consistent paste, sauce, puree, etc. Plus, some common recipes of jams, smoothies, juices, etc. are already available in the built-in settings.

Aicook also offers a wide range of accessories and a recipe book along with this high-quality blender.

One downside of the blender is the amount of noise it produces – it is one of the louder blenders on our buyer’s guide.

Pros

  • Very powerful blender, especially recommended for total crushing of ice
  • Large capacity
  • Wide range of accessories, travel-friendly jars, and recipe book included
  • Effective blades for more nutritious and wholesome concoctions
  • Dishwasher safe
  • 5-year warranty period

Cons

  • Noisy

10. Nutri Ninja Pro Personal Blender BL456R

The Nutri Ninja Pro Personal Blender BL456R features a 900-watt motor that ensures maximum nutrients in your recipes. While small and compact, this ‘personal’ blender is impressively powerful enough to pulverize hard nuts and seeds.


The parts of the blender are easy to clean and dishwasher safe. The BPA-free plastic container with a spout lid can be used as a mug for smoothies and milkshakes while you are on the go.

Moreover, Nutri Ninja offers a lifetime warranty so that you get your money’s worth!

It may be louder than most blenders but its positive features help one overlook the minor inconvenience.

Pros

  • One of the most powerful personal blenders
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Keeps the nutritious value intact
  • Compact and convenient
  • BPA-free container doubles up as a mug
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Noisy
  • Less capacity

Things to Consider While Buying Budget Blenders

Capacity

Depending on your preferences, lifestyle, availability of space in the kitchen, etc., you can decide the size of the blender. If you wish to prepare large batches for your family or often have guests for dinner, we’d suggest you go for a blender that offers a capacity of over 50 oz. However, if you stay alone or just need a blender to make a single serving, it is better to opt for a compact option.

Power

Knowing the wattage of the blender’s motor is important to know how powerful it is. If you just need to blend smoothies, milkshakes, sauces, etc., a 300-watt blender will suffice. But if you are looking for a blender that can crush ice, frozen ingredients, nuts, etc., you must go higher than 600 watts.

Blades

The material and number of blades, blade technology, etc. determine the longevity of the blender. We recommend opting for stainless steel blades that are durable and powerful. Dual direction blades are also a good option. Moreover, one must check if the blades are easy to clean or not.

Material

The material of the jar determines its durability and safety. Most blender jars are made of plastic and glass but ensure that it is BPA-free. While plastic pitchers are more travel-friendly, they are not on the durable side. On the other hand, glass pitchers repel odor but are also prone to breakage. According to our trails with various blenders, stainless steel jars last the longest.

Warranty

Like any other gadget, buying blenders that offer a warranty period is highly recommended. One can never be sure when a product malfunctions so it is best to stay on the safer side.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our guide of the best blenders under $100.

We put together our list looking for unique settings and a variety of different designs and styles. We made sure that our list caters to a wide audience having different preferences.

Before deciding on a blender, ask yourself what you’re mainly going to be blending and how much you’re going to be blending (just for you or someone else or an entire family) to help narrow down your search.

Casper Mattress Reviews 2023: A Buyer’s Guide to Casper Beds

Casper mattresses come in three different models: the Wave Hybrid, Nova Hybrid, and the Original (which is available as either an all-foam mattress or a hybrid mattress).

Here’s a quick at a glance comparison of their main mattress.

  1. The Casper Original Mattress: This is Casper’s flagship mattress, which is made of multiple layers of foam designed to provide both support and comfort. It’s available in all-foam and hybrid versions, and comes in six sizes ranging from twin to California king.
  2. The Casper Wave Mattress: The Wave is a premium mattress designed to provide targeted support and pressure relief. It features advanced foam layers and a zoned support system, and is available in both foam and hybrid versions.
  3. The Casper Essential Mattress: The Essential is Casper’s budget-friendly option, made of three foam layers and designed to provide a balance of comfort and support. It’s available in twin, twin XL, full, queen, and king sizes.
  4. The Casper Hybrid Mattress: The Hybrid is a combination of foam and springs, designed to provide a balance of support and pressure relief. It features multiple layers of foam and a layer of pocketed coils, and is available in all six sizes.
  5. The Casper Element Mattress: The Element is Casper’s most basic mattress, made of two foam layers and designed to provide a simple, comfortable sleep surface. It’s available in twin, twin XL, full, queen, and king sizes.

Overall, Casper offers a range of mattresses to suit different preferences and budgets, with options for those who want a basic, no-frills mattress as well as those who are willing to invest in advanced features like targeted support and pressure relief.

Casper mattresses are what’s known as a bed in a box mattress company. While they have a few retail locations throughout the United States, most of their customers are buying their bed online without having tried it before.

The complications of this are simple: what’s the process of buying a mattress online without ever having tried it? What if I don’t like it? What if it makes me sleep even worse than I sleep now?

That’s why we put together this post of Casper mattress reviews, where we will go over each model, talk about their pros and cons, and help you figure out if any of the Casper beds will work for you.

Note: Like most online mattress companies, Casper does offer free shipping and a 100-night sleep trial on its beds. This gives you a little more peace of mind when shopping because if the bed doesn’t work out, you aren’t stuck with it.

1. Casper Wave Hybrid

The Wave Hybrid is Casper’s most expensive and luxurious mattress. It is 13 inches thick, making it the tallest Casper mattress. Generally, the taller the mattress is the softer it will feel. This is because the taller the mattress, the further you’re from the base of the bed, which is often the firmest layer.

So, right of the bat, we know this is a medium-soft mattress, which means The Wave Hybrid will be potentially great for side sleepers.

Here’s why.

  • The first layer of the Wave Hybrid is a soft, pliable poly-foam. It’s not a memory foam layer and Casper probably did that on purpose – a lot of mattress brands won’t make the first layer memory foam because there are sleeping hot concerns with memory foam. This poly-foam layer is cushy and comfortable and it breathes well (so you sleep cool).
  • Beneath the poly-foam layer, there is a layer of natural latex. Latex mattresses are extremely comfortable and supportive (though, even when “soft”, they can feel al little “firmer” than a traditional mattress). Latex is also bouncy. (If you like latex mattresses, check out our review on all 100% latex Zenhaven mattress.)

So the first two layers of the Wave Hybrid are soft and bouncy and breathable.

The next layer is Casper’s zoned memory foam. We are big believers in mattresses with zoned memory foam because a zoned support layer makes sense. Think about it. Your body isn’t one type of weight all throughout. Most of us have more weight in our shoulders and hips than in our head and legs. This is why a zoned support layer – like the one in the Casper Wave Hybrid – helps keep you comfortable.

Beneath the memory foam layer, there are two more layers of poly-foam, and then the individually encased coils. Because the coils are individually encased, they work together to reduce motion transfer. That means if you move on your side of the bed, it won’t disturb your partner on the other side of the bed.

Overall, we really like the Wave Hybrid, because:

  • Hybrid mattresses are known for their comfort and support. They offer the best of both worlds. Or, in this case, all the worlds because the Casper Wave Hybrid as memory foam, latex foam, and coils. It’s offering comfort, bounce, and support.
  • Like all Casper mattresses, it comes with a free shipping and a risk-free 100-night sleep trial
  • We think the Casper Wave Hybrid will be great for a side sleeper who doesn’t want an extremely soft bed (we’d rate this mattress as a medium to medium-soft) and sleepers who want a comfy bed without feeling like they are sinking into a pile of memory foam.

2. Casper Nova Hybrid

The Nova Hybrid is a 12 inch thick mattress made by Casper, which combines foam and pocketed coils to provide a balance of comfort and support. Here are some of the key features of the Nova Hybrid:

  1. Zoned Support: The Nova Hybrid features a zoned support system that is designed to provide targeted support where you need it most. The mattress is softer at the shoulders and firmer at the hips, which helps to keep your spine aligned and reduce pressure points.
  2. Hybrid Construction: The Nova Hybrid combines multiple layers of foam with pocketed coils to provide a balance of comfort and support. The foam layers help to provide pressure relief and contour to your body, while the coils provide support and help to keep you cool.
  3. Soft Comfort Layer: The top layer of the Nova Hybrid is made of a soft foam that provides a plush, comfortable feel. This layer is designed to cushion your body and provide pressure relief.
  4. Cool Sleep: The Nova Hybrid features a breathable cover and a layer of gel-infused foam that helps to dissipate heat and keep you cool throughout the night.
  5. Motion Isolation: The pocketed coils in the Nova Hybrid are individually wrapped, which helps to isolate motion and reduce motion transfer. This can be especially helpful for couples who have different sleep schedules or who are easily disturbed by movement during the night.

The Nova Hybrid is like the Wave Hybrid just a little bit less of everything. A little less foam, a little fewer coils. This doesn’t mean it’s a worse bed, it just means it’s going to feel a little firmer. We think the Nova Hybrid is a great mattress for back and side sleepers.

It has two inches of top poly-foam (compared to the Wave’s three inches). It doesn’t have latex foam, which means it won’t have as much bounce as the Wave Hybrid. Instead, you’re mainly going to feel polyfoam and memory foam.

Overall, the Nova Hybrid is worth considering if:

  • You like a memory foam feel.
  • You sleep mostly on your back or side.

3. The Casper Original

The Casper Original is an 11-inch mattress that is available with either a foam base or a coil base. So you can buy it either as a hybrid mattress or an all-foam mattress.

The all-foam mattress is a little cheaper and a little firmer. This is because the foam base will give less. We mean that as you put weight on the mattress, the coils bend more than the foam base does.

This is Casper’s budget mattress. If you’re looking for a bed for a sider and stomach sleeper on a budget, we’d say pick the Casper Original with coils. If you’re looking for a firm bed or sleep on your stomach, then we’d say pick the all-foam base.

But why is this Casper original mattress so much cheaper? (It’s $400 cheaper than the Nova Hybrid and over $700 cheaper than the Wave.)

It’s because the Casper original mattress doesn’t have memory foam or latex in it. It’s just poly-foam.

What’s the big deal?

Poly-foam is breathable and can be comfortable, but it isn’t pressure-relieving like memory foam is. So this mattress isn’t as good as taking pressure off your sensitive areas (like your hips or shoulders).

But the Casper Original still has zoned support, which is a big plus and not something found in other budget mattresses.

We think you should consider the Casper Original, if:

  • You need a budget mattress but still want some of the perks like zoned support and eco-friendly materials.
  • You want a firmer feeling mattress and are a stomach or back sleeper.

The Casper Mattress Buying Guide

In this section, we’ll cover all you need to know about Casper mattresses, from the cost of each model, to the sizes available, to warranty and shipping information,and more.

How Much Do Casper Mattresses Cost?

Casper mattresses cost anywhere between $595 and $2995. The specific price of your Casper mattress depends both on which model you choose (the original, the original hybrid, the nova hybrid, or the wave hybrid), along with which size you choose (from Twin to Split King).

Here are the prices sorted by model and size.

The Orginal Casper Pricing*

  • Twin – $595
  • Twin XL – $695
  • Full – $995
  • Queen – $1,095
  • King – $1,295
  • Cal King- $1,295

The Casper Nova Hybrid Pricing*

  • Twin – $1,095
  • Twin XL – $1,245
  • Full – $1,795
  • Queen – $1,995
  • King – $2,295
  • Cal King- $2,295

The Casper Wave Hybrid Pricing*

  • Twin – $1,495
  • Twin XL – $1,695
  • Full – $2,395
  • Queen – $2,595
  • King – $2,995
  • Cal King- $2,995

*Note: These are the regular, off-sale prices of Casper mattresses. Normally, Casper is running a promo or sale that lets you get these mattresses are a lower cost.

Sleep Trial

Each Casper mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial.

The purpose of the Casper sleep trial is to let your body adjust to your new mattress. This can take some time, as it’s like correcting your posture or breaking a bad habit.

Casper asks all of their customers to give their new bed at least 30 days before deciding to change it or return it.

After those 30 days, if you’re still not satisfied, call up Casper customer support and they’ll help you process a return (for a full refund) or an exchange (where you either get the difference back on a less expensive option or pay it towards a more expensive option).

Warranty

Each Casper mattress comes with a 10-year warranty. This limited warranty protects your mattress from sagging.

If your bed starts to sag more than 1″ then it may qualify for a replacement mattress or for Casper to fix your mattress.

Sleeping Position

The majority of people in the world are side sleepers, and side sleepers would enjoy sleeping on either:

  • The Nova Hybrid
  • The Wave Hybrid

This is because side sleepers (generally) need more plush softness than the Original Casper offers. Side sleepers have more dips and canyons in their body due to their sleeping position and are at risk of feeling increased pressure on their shoulders.

But if you’re a stomach or back sleeper, you’ll be comfortable on:

  • The Original Casper

This is because the Original Casper is a much firmer mattress. However, a back sleeper can still like the Wave or Nova, as long as they aren’t too heavy (with most of their weight in their hips). If that’s the case, back sleepers may feel their hips dip below their knees, which can cause pain and discomfort in the lower back.

FAQ

Do Casper Mattresses Sag?

Yes, Casper mattresses, like all mattresses, can develop sags over time. This is why Casper mattresses have 10-year warranties. These warranties cover you if your bed starts to sag within those 10 years.

To clarify: body impressions in a mattress are normal. But they shouldn’t get so deep that they interrupt your ability to get a good night’s sleep.

What Mattress is better than Casper?

Casper mattresses are well-made and popular, but they aren’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a more budget mattress, consider Tuft and Needle. If you want a bed with more of a memory foam feel, consider Keetsa mattresses (and if you want to see a direct comparison between Keetsa and Casper, click here).

But if you’re looking eco-friendly bed that’s only made of latex, consider Zenhaven mattresses.

Finding the perfect mattress is difficult and it varies based on your needs. To help you with this, we put together our list of the best mattresses of 2020 –as picked by a mattress expert!

Final Thoughts: Is a Casper Mattress Right for You?

Casper is one of the big player in the game of online mattresses. We’ve tried their models before. They weren’t always like this. The Casper Wave and the Original Casper, in particular, have changed drastically over the years.

We think this is a good sign. Casper is always looking to improve on its products based on customer feedback and the latest trends.

But does that mean they’ll just change the product into something better in a few months?

That isn’t how to look at it. Mattress companies are always trying to reconfigure their bed so a few models will work for the majority of people. This is a hard task. But any of the models Casper currently sells are considered high-quality products.

They all have eco-friendly materials, CertiPUR®-US certified foams, come with free shipping, a risk-free 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty.

It’s hard to go wrong when you pick a Casper.

best wedge pillow for chronic sinusitis

11 Best Wedge Pillows (2023)

If you’re experiencing difficulty breathing or lower back pain or acid reflux (GERD) throughout the night, you might benefit from a wedge pillow. Compared to regular pillows, which often cause neck pain and snoring, wedge pillows come with a long list of benefits, from helping with health issues to helping you get more restful sleep.

High-quality wedge pillows are comfortable, but supportive.

They can be used under your back or even under your legs.

Wedge pillows help alleviate pressure, open up airways, and can even reduce or completely eliminate snoring.

Sometimes wedge pillows are a long-term solution (such as for sleepers suffering from GERD) and other times they’re a short-term solution, such as when you’re recovering from hip or knee surgery. Wedge pillows even work great when you’re suffering from a head cold or flu – because it’s easier to sleep propped up.

Whatever the reason, the truth is there’s a ton of options to consider– from memory foam wedge pillows to cooling wedge pillows to adjustable wedge pillows.

In this post, we’re going over the 9 best wedge pillows of 2020, covering critical details such as materials used, shipping and return information, warranty policies, and price.

Best Wedge Pillows of 2020

  1. Bed Wedge Memory Foam Pillow – best wedge pillow for acid reflux 
  2. Relax Home Life 7.5 inch –  best wedge pillow for heartburn
  3. Xtreme Comforts 7” Memory Foam Pillow – the best memory foam wedge pillow
  4. KUNPENG Wedge Pillow – the biggest/highest incline wedge pillow
  5. Sleepnitez 8” Wedge Pillow – the coolest and most breathable wedge pillow
  6. Multi-Purpose Wedge Pillow Set – best wedge pillow for back pain
  7. OasisSpace Wedge Pillow  – best wedge pillow for heavy sleepers
  8. Healthex Wedge Cooling Pillow – gel infused memory foam wedge pillow
  9. Soraken Adjustable Wedge Pillow – most adaptable wedge pillow
  10. Brentwood Home Therapeutic Zoom Wedge Pillow
  11. Healthex Wedge Pillow –

1. Bed Wedge Memory Foam Pillow

This Bed Wedge Memory Foam pillow is a 7.5-inch wedge pillow that comes with 2 covers. It’s dimensions are: 24 x 24 x 7.5.

It uses bamboo fabric in the covers. Bamboo is a popular material because it’s breathable and cool. This is critical for a pillow, because the last thing you want is your pillow waking you up in the middle of the night with a pool of sweat in your lower back.

The Bed Wedge Memory Foam pillow as a curved edge slope, instead of the more conventional sharp slope.

This curved edge makes this pillow adaptable – you can use it comfortably under your back, as well as under your legs. Customers use it for sleeping, for reading or eating in bed, or even watching a movie.

The Bed Wedge Pillow uses memory foam.

Their memory foam is temperature-sensitive, which means it molds to your body when it senses your natural body temperature. This is going to help eliminate any tossing and turning, as your wedge pillow contours to your specific body weight and shape.

Right now, the Bed Wedge Pillow is in stock and if you try it out and don’t like – or it’s size or shape doesn’t work for you – you can return the product and get a full refund.

What customers are saying

best wedge pillow for chronic sinusitis

However, a few customers, including the one below, did find the wedge pillow firmer than they expected.

customer reviews for wedge pillows

They’re adapting by using a small travel on top, which is relatively common with wedge pillows, as wedge pillows can’t be so soft that your back sinks in too deep.

2. Relax Home Life 7.5 inch

The Relax Home Life is a memory foam wedge pillow with a Bamboo-Poly blend cover (40% bamboo and 60% polyester).

This wedge pillow is available in four different sizes:

  1. 25” X 25” x 12”
  2. 25” x 26” x 7.5”
  3. 30.5” x 33” x 7”
  4. 30.5” x 33” x 12”

We recommend the 7.5 inch option – which is the most popular height for wedge pillows, unless you need more (or less) height.

The Relax Home Life wedge pillow has a two-layer design:

  • First Layer: 1.5” memory foam, meant to be comfortable and contouring.
  • Second layer: A firm base, meant to be a stable foundation that supports the memory foam and supports you.

This means the Relax Home Life will feel contouring and soft, as your body sinks into that 1.5” but the memory foam layer is not so thick that you’ll feel sunken in.

The Relax Home Life cover is made of bamboo viscose. This is a soft, breathable cover. Generally, you’re not covering your wedge pillow in pillow cases, sheets or blankets, so you want the cover to be soft and cool on your skin.

Plus, the dust-mite resistant, hypo-allergenic cover is easily removable and can be tossed in the washing machine.

What customers are saying

Overall, the reviews of the Relax Home Life wedge are resoundingly positive, but they do back up our claim that this 1.5” layer of memory foam makes it a rather soft pillow.

soft memory foam wedge pillow for comfort

And then there’s review:

best wedge pillow for acid reflux

3. Xtreme Comforts 7” Memory Foam Pillow

The Xtreme Comforts 7” memory foam pillow is a hypoallergenic wedge pillow meant to help with acid reflux, lower back pain, heartburn, snoring, allergies, and more. It has a 30 degree angle, which is perfect for both beds, couches, daybeds or anywhere else you find yourself needing extra support and comfort while you sleep.

The Xtreme Comforts memory foam pillow is 7” tall at its highest point, 27” long and 25” wide.

This memory foam wedge pillow has two layers: the 2 inches of memory foam (at the top layer) and the 5 inches of supportive core.

This is a great option for sleepers who need the pressure-relieving benefits of memory foam.

This wedge pillow has a removable cover that is machine washable.

What customers are saying

Another customer commented that this saved them the money they were going to spend on an adjustable bed.

However, like other memory foam pillows, the Xtreme Comforts 7” memory foam pillow might be too soft for sleepers over a certain weight. Keep in mind, that you’re entire body isn’t going to be on the pillow at the same time – and if you’re using this wedge pillow for the lighter part of your body, such as your legs, this could be a non-issue. But if you’re a sleeper who is going to be put over 150-200lbs directly on this pillow, it may feel too soft.

4. KUNPENG Wedge Pillow

The KUNPENG wedge pillow is a 10 inch thick wedge pillow. This means it has less of a gradual inline as some of the other pillows. The KUNPENG wedge pillow puts you higher up and at a sharper angle, making it really good if you want to watch TV before bed or need to lay at 30 degree angle for better sleep.

The KUNPENG wedge pillow is made of 50% memory foam and 50% velvet fiber. Its covered is a bamboo-derived rayon, which is a removable cover that can be washed in your home washing machine.

Plus, this pillow is certified by CertiPUR-US® and OEKO-TEX, which means they don’t use harmful chemicals in making this wedge pillow.

This is one of the larger wedge pillows on our list and its a medium to medium firm firmness.

5. Sleepnitez 8” Wedge Pillow

The Sleepnitez 8” wedge pillow is a soft and cool wedge pillow. This is because it use 3.25 inches of memory foam as its top layer and a TENCEL cover. TENCEL is an eco-friendly, natural fiber, that is cool to the touch.

We also like the Sleepnitez wedge pillow because of how it tapers off.

Some wedge pillows have a sudden drop off, leaving a gap between the wedge pillow and your mattress. But the Sleepnitez pillow slowly gest thinner, ending up at only .2” thick to blend in with your mattress. This makes it feel seamless and natural.

The Sleepnitez wedge pillow has a 3-year warranty that gets upgraded to a lifetime warranty when you register your new pillow with Sleepnitez.

6. Multi-Purpose Wedge Pillow Set

Allsett’s Multi-Purpose Wedge pillow set is actually 2 wedge pillows. It’s available in three different colors (white, grey, and navy).

The first wedge pillow is the traditional right-angle shape and meant for your torso/head. This back-wedge pillow is 12 inches high. Then the leg-wedge pillow is six inches high.

Allset recommends using both together to:

  • Help with medical conditions such as snoring, sleep apnea, allergies
  • Reduce lower back pain by raising the legs up, taking pressure off the back and spine.

The Allsett wedge pillow has a removable cover that is machine washable.

7. OasisSpace Wedge Pillow

The OasisSpace Wedge Pillow is 12 inches tall at its highest point. It uses only 1.5 inches of memory foam as its top layer, making it one of the firmer wedge pillows on our list.

Its cover does have a non-slip design, which is great considering its tall height.

The OasisSpace wedge pillow comes with a removable washable cover.

It is the heaviest wedge pillow on our list, at nearly 7 lbs.

8. Healthex Wedge Cooling Pillow

The Healthex Wedge Cooling pillow is an 8 inch wedge pillow with 1.5 inches cooling gel memory foam. The gel is sprinkled throughout the memory foam, making it so heat won’t get trapped.

9. Soraken Adjustable Wedge Pillow

This Soraken Adjustable Wedge Pillow is the most versatile pillow on our list.

The Soraken wedge pillow has two different components that you can alter to make seven different types of wedge pillows, including positions for:

  1. Sitting upright
  2. Low incline
  3. Medium incline
  4. High Incline
  5. Knee support
  6. Leg elevation
  7. High Knee Support

The Soraken Adjustable Wedge pillow can be either used at a 30 degree angle or a 60 degree angle, giving your upper body more choices than any other wedge pillow on our list.

This is a mediium firm to firm pillow and is meant more for customers who need significant support to underlining medical conditions.

It comes with a machine washable cover.

10. Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Wedge Pillow

The Brentwood Home Zuma Therapeutic Wedge Pillow is a high-quality, supportive pillow designed to help alleviate a range of health issues, including acid reflux, snoring, and back pain.

Made from CertiPUR-US certified foam and covered in a removable, machine-washable bamboo cover, this pillow is both comfortable and easy to clean.

With a range of sizes and incline angles available, the Zuma pillow is customizable to suit your specific needs and preferences, providing a restful, comfortable night’s sleep.

You can read more here: Zuma Therapeutic Wedge Pillow review.

11. Healthex Wedge Pillow

Looking for a comfortable, supportive, and cooling pillow to help you sleep better? Look no further than the Healthex Wedge Pillow!

Made from high-density foam and covered in a soft, breathable bamboo fabric, this pillow is designed to provide optimal support, stability, and cooling comfort.

The angled design can help alleviate acid reflux, snoring, and other sleep-related issues, while the cooling features help regulate body temperature and promote restful sleep.

Plus, with a 100-day satisfaction guarantee and 1-year warranty, you can feel confident in your investment. Try the Healthex Wedge Pillow today and wake up feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the day!

Wedge Pillow Buyer’s Guide

Wedge Pillow Types

  • Shape – Most wedge pillows are a triangular shape, but not like a pyramid, more like pyramid cut in half. This is what gives wedge pillows that wedge shape.
  • Size – Most wedge pillows are between 7 inches and 12 inches tall and 20 inches to 25 inches wide. They are meant to accommodate one person.
  • Incline – Most wedge pillows have a gradual incline of 30 degrees, this is to help you get the support and elevation you need while still being able to sleep.
  • Materials – The best wedge pillows use memory foam as the top layer, what changes between brands is how thick this layer is. The thicker the memory foam layer, the softer the wedge pillow. The bottom layer is almost always polyurethane foam, which is a firmer, more stable and supportive foam layer.
  • Layers – Wedge pillows have two layers: the comfort layer and the support layer.
  • Cost – Wedge pillows range in price from $30 to $60+
  • Cooling – To help with cooling, the best wedge pillows use gel infused memory foam and breathable Bamboo covers or Tencel covers.

Sleeping Positions

Generally, wedge pillows are used most by side sleepers and back sleepers.

  1. Side sleepers: Wedge pillows can provide much-needed support for side sleepers who struggle with shoulder pain, hip pain, or back pain. By elevating the upper body and reducing pressure on the joints, a wedge pillow can help side sleepers achieve a more comfortable and supportive sleep position. Additionally, a wedge pillow can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn, which can be exacerbated by lying flat. If you’re a side sleeper, you’re likely going to want a thinner (7 inch to 10 inch high) wedge pillow than if you’re a back sleeper. This is because the gradual slope and low profile height compliment the shape of your spine. But if you had a foam bed wedge that was 12 inches high with a 40 degree incline, sleeping on your side might be painful.
  2. Back sleepers: Wedge pillows can be especially beneficial for back sleepers who suffer from sleep apnea or snoring. By elevating the head and neck, a wedge pillow can help keep the airway open and reduce snoring and sleep apnea symptoms. Additionally, a wedge pillow can help reduce pressure on the lower back and promote proper spinal alignment.
  3. Stomach sleepers: While it is generally not recommended to sleep on your stomach due to the strain it can place on the neck and spine, some people may find a wedge pillow helpful in this position. By elevating the upper body, a wedge pillow can help reduce pressure on the neck and improve breathing, which can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from asthma or allergies. However, it is important to note that sleeping on your stomach is not the most ideal sleeping position, and individuals who struggle with this position may benefit from exploring other sleep positions.

Stomach sleepers using a wedge pillow would put a lot of pressure on their spine, causing discomfort.

Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow Vs. Non-Memory Foam Wedge Pillow

Review boards have a lot of confusion about this, so let’s clear it up.

All of the best wedge pillows have both memory foam and polyurethane foam. There is no 100% memory foam wedge pillow, because that much memory foam would be too soft for anyone to sleep on.

Your wedge pillow will have a memory foam top layer, and a firmer, poly foam core layer.

Return Policies

If you’re buying your wedge pillow through Amazon, then returns are either handled by the manufacturer or by Amazon.

Most are handled by the manufacturer, which means you need to reach out, via Amazon, to get a shipping label and instructions from the manufacturer.

Depending on the seller, this can be simple or a long, drawn out process.

Wedge Pillow Warranties

Wedge pillows usually come with at least a 1 year warranty, with some of the better wedge pillow brands offering a lifetime warranty.

Still, what’s being warrantied is premature sagging. A wedge pillow that sags is no good, because now you’re not getting the elevation or support you need.

Shipping

All wedge pillows are foam pillows, so they are compressed at the factory and shipped in a small box or bag.

Don’t be alarmed when you get a small bag you can left with one hand. It is indeed your pillow. You just need to open the plastic and let the pillow expand for a good hour before using.

If you’re buying a wedge pillow from Amazon and shipping anywhere in the USA, then you’re most likely not going to pay for shipping, assuming you live somewhere FedEx ground can reach.

 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Bed Wedge Pillow?

The best wedge pillow is going to be the right height, incline, and firmness for your body. We personally like the Sleepnitez wedge pillow because it’s a medium high, not too soft, not too firm, and uses advanced cooling technology.

Is it Good to Sleep on a Wedge Pillow?

Yes, sleeping on a wedge pillow has many benefits, including:

  • Reducing snoring
  • Reducing lower back pain
  • Reducing acid reflux and GERD
  • Reducing allergies and other breathing problems, and more.
  • Reduces neck pain

Plus, using a wedge pillow beneath your legs can help with back support and increased blood flow. Increased blood flow can actually help you sleep better through the night, because poor circulation makes it harder to fall asleep, due to your body getting cold and parts of your body going numb or tingly.

How High Should a Wedge Pillow Be?

A wedge pillow is generally 7 to 12 inches high with an incline of 30 to 45 degrees. It depends on what you’re using it for.

If you struggle to get out of bed, then a higher wedge pillow with a steeper incline might be required.

However, if you’re mainly using the wedge pillow to reduce snoring, the a 7 inch wedge pillow with a 30 degree incline can do the trick.

How Do I Choose a Wedge Pillow?

First, factor in what you’re using your wedge pillow for.

If it’s a medical condition – and your doctor recommended a wedge pillow – then ask your doctor for any specific recommendations. If the doctor says you need one that’s at least inclined 35 degrees, now you can limit your search.

If the doctor didn’t have any recommendations, then look up online for people who have a similar condition and what wedge pillow worked for them.

Second, factor in your body weight and sleep style.

If you sleep on your back, are above average build, then you’ll want a firmer wedge pillow.

If you sleep on your side, are average build or thinner, then a soft wedge pillow might be your in your best interest.

What’s the Best Height Wedge Pillow for You?

The best height for a wedge pillow will vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. In general, the height of a wedge pillow will determine the angle at which the upper body is elevated, which can have an impact on the effectiveness of the pillow in alleviating certain health conditions.

For example, individuals who suffer from acid reflux or heartburn may benefit from a higher wedge pillow (around 7-10 inches) to help prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus. On the other hand, individuals who suffer from snoring or sleep apnea may benefit from a lower wedge pillow (around 4-6 inches) to help keep the airway open and reduce pressure on the neck.

It is also important to consider the individual’s body size and sleeping position when selecting the height of a wedge pillow. Taller individuals may require a higher wedge pillow to achieve the desired angle, while smaller individuals may find a lower wedge pillow more comfortable.

Ultimately, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or sleep specialist to determine the best height for a wedge pillow based on the individual’s specific health needs and sleeping habits.

Cleaning Your Wedge Pillow

Cleaning a wedge pillow will depend on the materials and construction of the pillow. Here are some general tips for cleaning a wedge pillow:

  1. Check the care instructions: Before cleaning your wedge pillow, check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that you do not damage the pillow.
  2. Spot clean: If the wedge pillow has small stains or spills, use a damp cloth and mild detergent to spot clean the affected area.
  3. Air dry: Allow the wedge pillow to air dry completely before using it again. Do not put the pillow in the dryer or use high heat, as this can damage the foam or other materials.
  4. Use a protective cover: Consider using a protective cover for your wedge pillow to help keep it clean and free from stains and spills.
  5. Deep clean: If the wedge pillow is heavily soiled or has a strong odor, it may need to be deep cleaned. This can be done by hand washing or using a front-loading washing machine on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Be sure to follow the care instructions carefully and allow the pillow to air dry completely before using it again.

Remember, it’s important to clean your wedge pillow regularly to help maintain its shape, support, and hygiene.

Conclusion

We hope our guide to the best wedge pillows of 2020 helped you find what you needed.

If you have any questions, please ask them below.

6 Best Mattresses to Buy on Amazon (2022)

More and more mattresses are sold online, which means plenty of people who are struggling to get a good night’s sleep are looking to sites like Amazon, reading customer reviews and product descriptions to find the best mattress for them.

There are so many options on Amazon. Plenty of the beds on Amazon come from companies that are subject, at best. But there are also some high-quality mattresses available through Amazon. This is great if you’re using an Amazon credit card for no interest payments, or just overall great because of Amazon’s customer-friendly return policy.

But finding the best mattress on Amazon isn’t as simple as looking at star ratings. We know beds pretty well, so we took a look at what Amazon offers and found our nine favorite mattresses available through the popular site.

1. Zinus Green Tea 12-Inch Memory Foam Mattress

The Zinus Green Tea 12-inch memory foam mattress is one of the best-priced mattresses on our list. It also makes an appearance in round-up for best mattresses under $500.

We like it because it’s a crazy cheap price but still uses CERTIPUR-US® certified foam, which means the memory foam is of al high quality and the bed shouldn’t off-gas in your home.

Plus, the Zinus Green Tea mattress comes with a 10-year warranty – a great deal for beds in this price range. That being said, a $280 mattress just won’t compete with $1,000 mattresses. We think this bed is a great option for a guest bedroom, a child’s bedroom, or if you’re looking for a mattress to sleep on for 1-5 years before moving into a bigger home or a new place.

This mattress does come in 6 inch, 8 inch, 10 inch, and 12-inch options. We like the 12 inch option, but if you’re looking for a firmer feel, just get one of the thinner models. That being said, anything below 10 inches, in our experience, isn’t as likely to hold up over the years. Sure, you have the warranty but you don’t want to go through the hassle of a warranty claim if you don’t have to.

2. Pure Green Natural Latex Mattress

The Pure Green Natural Latex mattress is a 100% natural latex (no synthetic latex) which means it’s very supportive, bouncy, eco-friendly, and long-lasting.

Unlike memory foam mattresses, latex mattresses don’t generally give in that much. You don’t feel like you’re sinking in the bed. Instead, you’re bouncing on the bed. This means they can generally feel firmer than a memory foam or even hybrid mattress. Just something to keep in mind.

The Pure Green Natural Latex mattress has a quilted cover that uses organic cotton and organic New Zealand wool – both of these fibers are very breathable and comfy. Because latex is already breathable (it doesn’t trap heat like some memory foam beds), the Pure Green Natural Latex is going to sleep cool through the night.

This particular mattress is 9 inches thick and is ideal for side sleepers and back sleepers.

Plus, like the Zinus mattress, the Pure Green Natural Latex comes with a 10-year warranty.

3. LUCID 12-Inch Latex Hybrid Mattress

The LUCID 12-inch Latex Hybrid mattress comes as a 10-inch and 12-inch option. We like the 12-inch (great for side sleepers and back sleeper) but pick the 10-inch option if you want a firmer feel.

This is a good quality bed that uses latex to give you a good bounce and keep you cool, combined with individually wrapped innerspring coils. This mattress does also use a thin layer of memory foam to help relieve pressure points, and the memory foam is gel memory foam, which means it won’t trap heat.

Overall, this is one comfy and cool bed. Plus, it comes with a 10-year warranty.

4. LUCID Mattress with an Adjustable Bed Frame

This is a LUCID memory foam mattress WITH an adjustable bed frame. That means you can use a remote to move the bed up and down.

This is a huge win for you for several reasons.

By lifting your head up, you actually open your airways, which means you won’t snore and you’ll breathe better. Plus, sleeping with your head elevated is ideal for people with sleep apnea or GERD.

And it’s not just for medical purposes – lifting the top half of your body up is great if you’re eating in bed, working in bed (like working from home), watching TV, reading your book, or playing on your phone.

You can also lift your feet up. Lifting your feet up is really good for taking pressure off your lower back. Sleeping on our back is one of the healthier sleeping positions and by investing in a mattress with an adjustable bed, you can lift your legs up slightly and feel more comfortable sleeping on your back.

5. Nod Hybrid by Tuft and Needle

The Nod Hybrid mattress was specifically made for Amazon by Tuft and Needle. It’s a great mattress for customers who don’t want memory foam (because they’re worried it’ll sleep hot or sink in) or latex (because it’s firm or expensive).

The Nod Hybrid mattress is poly-foam, which is like memory foam but lighter, cheaper, and doesn’t conform or envelope your body as much. But the Nod uses what’s called “adaptive foam.” That’s Tuft and Needle’s special-made foam.

Beneath the adaptive foam, this mattress uses 6-inch pocket coils. Pocket coils are individually wrapped which is great because it means when you’re sharing your bed the movement you make won’t disturb your partner and vice versa.

Unlike some of the other beds on our list, the Nod is only available through Amazon.

With this mattress, you get a 100-night sleep trial, 10-year warranty, and free shipping and returns.

If you’re interested in learning more about other Tuft & Needle beds, check out our complete Tuft and Needle mattress review

6. Sealy Posturepedic Plus, 14-Inch Pillow Top

The Sealy Posturepedic Plush is the most expensive mattress on our list. That probably has something to do with the fact that Sealy is the biggest mattress brand in America and people have come to trust its name.

But it also is just a little better in every way. This mattress has more coils than any other bed on our list, making it more comfortable and more supportive. This is because the more coils in a bed, the more your weight is distributed across the coils.

Plus, this Sealy bed has a cooling cover that actually uses technology to keep allergens out of your bed. This bed also uses gel memory roam to keep pressure off your body – the memory foam helps with reducing tossing and turning, and the gel helps keep heat from getting trapped in the bed.

This mattress – that comes with a 10-year warranty backed by Sealy – is designed to keep you comfy and cool.

Amazon Mattresses Buying Guide

Mattress Types

There are three main types of mattresses,

  1. Innerspring — This is your garden variety coil mattress. It will have that “bounce” you’re familiar with. Innerspring beds used a coil support system and a few layers of cushioning to provide comfort. These are often the most affordable beds.
  2. All-Foam — All foam beds can be either poly-foam, memory foam, or latex foam. These mattresses will generally cost more than coil mattresses. They’re also usually more supportive. But if you’re getting a memory foam bed, make sure it’s using some kind of cooling technology, as cheap memory foam beds can get hot.
  3. Hybrid — The best of both worlds. Hybrid mattresses have a coil support system for half of the bed, and then foam layers for the second half. This way you get the comfort and support of both foam and coils.

Sleeping Positions

There are three main sleeping positions. Listed in order of popularity:

  1. Side sleeping
  2. Back sleeping
  3. Stomach sleeping.

There are also combination sleepers – people who fall asleep on their side but wake up on their back, and so on.

Mattress Firmness

There is no standard rule of what makes a mattress firm or soft. It’s pretty relative, but generally, most brands try to limit their firmness levels to:

  • Firm
  • Medium-Firm
  • Medium
  • Soft

But you might also get an extra firm, medium-soft, luxury firm, ultra-soft plush, and so on.

When trying to gauge mattress firmness when shopping for a mattress on Amazon, look for the thickness of the bed and of each layer. The thinner the mattress the firmer it is (generally). Plus, the thinner the layers of foam, the firmer it is.

Edge Support

Edge support is when the edges of the bed (all the way around not just the corners) are firmer than the rest of the bed.

FAQs

Are Amazon Mattresses Good?

Mattresses on Amazon are just as good (or bad) as mattresses anywhere else. Amazon is a marketplace for brands to sell their product. The good thing about Amazon is it has an active consumer base that loves leaving feedback in the form of detailed product reviews.

But even then, plenty of reviews on Amazon are from people who just got their mattresses. How a mattress performs can change drastically over the years.

That’s why we put together this post, showing which brands on Amazon are the best to consider.

How Much Should You Spend on a Mattress from Amazon?

The best mattresses can be found generally for somewhere between $500 to a $1,500+ for a queen size mattress.

That being said, it will depend on what you need from a bed. We have mattresses on this list for under $500 that do a great job of supporting you. There are also beds that are well over $2,000 that are worth the money.

Just keep in mind that anything under $500 deserves a little more scrutiny, but so does anything over $2,000.

Final Thoughts: You Can Save Big By Buying Through Amazon

Memory Foam Alternatives: 3 Alternatives to Memory Foam Mattresses

There are three common complaints leveled against memory foam mattresses:

  1. They are hot.
  2. They are expensive. 
  3. They are toxic.
  4. They make it feel like you’re sinking into the mattress.

Mattresses that are hot or don’t offer enough support (leading to that sinking feeling) can cause you to wake up in the middle of the night, to throw off the covers, to toss and turn, to adjust the fan. In short, if your bed is hot or unsupportive, you’re likely not getting a good night’s sleep.

If your bed is toxic, then that means there are health concerns to consider as you’re sleeping directly on your bed anywhere from 6 to 9 hours a night. 

And, of course, as much as most of us want a new bed, no one wants to spend more than they have to. 

This leads plenty of customers looking up the best memory foam alternatives

To us, there are three viable alternatives to memory foam mattresses:

  1. Innerspring or coil mattresses. 
  2. Latex mattresses
  3. Poly-foam mattresses.

In this post, we’re going to cover each one of these in detail and make some general recommendations. 

1. Innerspring / Coil Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses are still the most popular mattresses in America. 

This is because they are affordable and bouncy. They feel like a mattress, whereas memory foam mattresses can often feel either like a hard block or a super soft sponge. 

Innerspring mattresses have two major components: the support coil system and the top comfort layer.

The support coil system is usually between 5 inches to 8 inches tall. It’s full of individual coils that can be tied together by wire or pocketed. Always look for an innerspring mattress with pocketed coils because pocketed coils makes it easier to share the bed. This way if someone moves throughout the night – to roll over or get out of bed and get a drink of water – you’re less likely to be disturbed. 

The more money you spend on an innerspring mattress, the more advanced the coil will likely be. There are steel coils and titanium coils. There are also duet coils or two-in-one coils. This is where you have a smaller coil within a larger coil. The benefit of that is the larger coil is thinner and more bendy while the smaller coil is firmer. This way your body feels the pliable comfort of the larger coil before feeling the firmness of the smaller coil.

The top comfort layer in most innerspring mattresses varies greatly. You can have cotton or polyester filling. You can have cashmere padding or poly-foam. But in a traditional innerspring mattress, you’re mainly paying for the coils and the padding is just a soft layer or two to keep you from feeling like you’re sleeping on, well, coils.

Innerspring vs. Memory Foam

Unlike memory foam mattresses, innerspring beds are naturally very breathable, which means you won’t sleep hot. They are generally much more affordable.

But innerspring mattresses do come with their own concerns. If you’re experiencing pressure in your joints or shoulders, a coil mattress can agitate any problems areas. 

2. Latex Mattresses

Latex foam is more durable, slightly firmer (on average), more eco-friendly, and more expensive than memory foam.

There are two ways to make latex mattresses – the Dunlop method and the Talalay method. Both ways require a good amount of investment on the mattress company because latex is time-consuming to make.

Sometimes bed companies will make latex blend mattresses or synthetic latex. These are not true latex mattresses.

When we say true latex mattresses, we mean like Zenhaven or Brooklyn Bedding’s Bloom mattress.

Latex vs Memory Foam

Latex mattresses don’t sleep hot. 

Because they are eco-friendly, there are minimal toxicity concerns. 

They are (generally) more expensive than memory foam mattresses.

And – if you’re a side sleeper or someone who needs a lot of contouring support – a latex mattress may run too firm for you.

For a complete comparison, check out our post on latex vs memory foam.

3. Poly-Foam Mattresses

All memory foam is poly-foam, but not all poly-foam is memory foam.

Poly-foam is simply polyurethane foam. Almost every major bed in a box mattress brand uses a few layers of poly-foam in their beds.

This because poly-foam is inexpensive and breathable.

However, it’s not usually very comfortable.

But that hasn’t stopped leading mattress brands from experimenting with poly-foam to make a more comfortable, softer version.

The most famous is probably Tuft and Needle. Tuft and Needle doesn’t have a memory foam layer. That is why their beds are so affordable. Instead, Tuft and Needle uses special poly-foam (called Adaptive foam) that they made. It’s their own secret recipe and it’s meant to be comfortable and pressure relieving (like memory foam) without any of the negative side effects associated with memory foam.

Final Thoughts: Is Memory Foam Really that Bad?

Is memory foam really toxic?

When mattress companies make memory foam – full name viscoelastic polyurethane foam – they’re using a petroleum-based product to make their poly-foam contouring, soft, and pliable. But toxciity has more to do with the amount of a toxic element, then the element itself. Third-party certifications exists to monitor the safety of memory foam products, such as Certi-PUR®-US. 

Most major mattress companies who make their products in the US are CertiPUR-US certified, meaning they don’t contain more than the allowed amounts of pollutants. 

There are very few reports in the United States of a mattress being toxic, but there are concerns with beds made cheaply overseas.

 Is memory foam really hot? 

Memory foam has the potential to be much more of a heat trap than any other type of mattress.

This is because memory foam is dense. The dense a layer of foam, the harder it is for air to escape. This leads to the mattress turning into a “heat trap.”

However, most complaints of memory foam sleeping hot come from the 80s and 90s. It’s less of an issue now because memory foam mattress companies have figured out how to use features like gel-infused memory foam and PCMs to keep their customers cool.

Is memory foam really expensive?

Relatively speaking, memory foam mattresses are going to cost you more than a coil mattress but less than a latex mattress.

If you’re looking for a memory foam mattress in a queen size or bigger, then you can expect to spend around $1,000 (if you want a firmer bed) or around $1,300 (if you want a softer bed).

 

Sofa vs Couch

Sofa vs Couch: What’s the Difference?

We often use different words to mean the same thing – like when customers say they’re looking for a new bed when they mean mattress.

Is that the same issue with sofa and couches?

Is the sofa the same thing as a couch? Or are they fundamentally different?

The truth is there is a lot of overlap between a sofa and a couch, but there are some key differences between the pieces of furniture – it’s just that those key differences don’t really matter anymore.

Let’s explain.

What is a Sofa?

A sofa is, traditionally, a wooden bend covered with cushions or blankets. But it’s evolved since then to mean many things.

In fact – fun trivia, the word sofa comes from the Arabic word suffa which means ledge or bench

The main point is sofa is more of a formal piece of furniture.

It has cushions, upholstery, two sofa arms, and enough room for – usually – at least three people.

There are several types of sofas, including sectional sofas and sleeper sofas.

What is a Couch?

A couch can be seen as a more informal sofa.

Before present-day, couch actually originated from Old French couche, which was a verb meant “to lie down.”

There’s some evidence that chaise longues, so called “fainting couches,” were the first real couches.

But now if ten people walked into a store and looked at a couch, some would call it a couch and half would call it a sofa.

Sofa vs. Couch: So, is There Any Difference?

The differences between a sofa and a couch are starting to disappear. Historically, a couch was meant for lying down, whereas a sofa was meant for more sitting up right.

But you won’t see that difference when shopping for the best sofas or the best couches. The truth is, furniture companies are going to use the terms that they think work the best to convince their customers to buy.

If a furniture brand is trying to push luxury and affluent lifestyles, it’ll market their piece of furniture as a sofa. If one is going for comfort, family night in front of the TV, then they’ll label it as a couch.

Tuft and Needle vs Casper (2023)

It’s the big battle for who makes the best mattress: Tuft and Needle vs. Casper. These are two leading bed-in-a-box mattress brands. Both companies changed the mattress industry forever when they started out making just one mattress, but now both companies sell three different models.

But how different are they?

Finding a mattress is difficult, especially in today’s online market, for three reasons:

  1. You can’t try it out (unless you happen to be in the select cities where there are Tuft and Needle and Casper showrooms).
  2. Every brand uses its own marketing lingo to make its bed so cool and exciting.
  3. There are so many options to choose from that it can be overwhelming (and confusing) picking a bed.

To help, we do our best to write about mattresses fairly and thoroughly. To write this mattress comparison, we consulted with a retired mattress salesperson who used to help sell big brands like Sealy and Serta.

We’re going to cover how Tuft and Needle and Casper fare when pitted against each other.

First, let’s start with grouping the mattresses into similar price ranges.

Tuft & Needle vs. Casper – Pricing

We are going off of queen prices, as queen size mattresses are the most popular size. We are also going off of regular pricing, not sale pricing, so prices may be cheaper at actual checkout.

Tuft and NeedlePriceCasperPrice
Original$595Original$1095/$1295
Mint$995Nova$1995
Hybrid$1495Hybrid$2595

So, you can see that each brand offers three main price levels. There is the introducing pricing ($595 for Tuft and Needle and $1095 for Casper) and then there is the more expensive option ($1495 for Tuft and Needle and $2595) for both brands, plus one in the middle.

When it comes to just focusing on the price, Tuft and Needle is less expensive. You can get Tuft and Needle’s most luxurious option – the Tuft and Need Hybrid mattress – for about $1000 less than Casper’s most luxurious option, the Casper Wave Hybrid.

If you’re buying with only your wallet in mind, the choice is obvious.

But most of us don’t just buy a mattress based on how much it is – we see a mattress as an investment. We want it to last years and we want to sleep comfortably on it.

A few words about financing. . .

Plenty of mattress brands over financing. This isn’t new to online mattress companies. Traditional bed in a box retailers always offered tiered financing (the more you spent, the more months you got zero interest).

Both Tuft and Needle and Casper mattress companies offer financing on their beds

Both Casper and Tuft and Needle have partnered with Affirm to offer financing on your mattress purchase. The actual terms of the agreement depend on a few factors (such as your credit score and credit history), but the interest rate varies from 0% to 30%. We’re not a finance blog but we strongly encourage you to only choose financing if offered a very low-interest rate (preferably zero!).

Okay, back to our review.

Which brand, Tuft and Needle vs. Casper, offers the most comfort and support?

Casper vs. Tuft & Needle – Comfort and Support

A quick way to figure out comfort and support is to look at mattress height and materials. It isn’t a surefire way to review a mattress, but it does give context. A thicker mattress with more layers of foam will generally but softer, while a thinner mattress with fewer layers will generally be firmer.

Tuft and Needle ModelsHeightLayersCasper

Models

Height Layers
Original10 inches2Original11 inches3
Mint12 inches3Nova12 inches5
Hybrid12 inches6Hybrid13 inches6

You can start to see why Casper mattresses cost more. We aren’t saying (yet) whether or not they are worth the extra cost, but you’re getting more (generally) with Casper mattresses. Even the middle models – the Mint and the Nova – which have the same height come with a different amount of layers.

Okay, but does that make Casper mattresses more comfortable than Tuft and Needle mattresses?

Not necessarily. Comfort is subjective and support will vary based on body weight, shape, and sleep style.

But there is a significant difference between Casper mattresses and Tuft and Needle mattresses and it has to do with their materials.

Casper mattresses – from the entry-level original to the high-end hybrid – are memory foam mattresses. Tuft and Needle mattresses do not. Casper’s Wave Hybrid contains latex foam. Tuft and Needle mattresses do not.

Why does this matter?

Because memory foam and latex are two of the biggest types of mattresses available. Some people really love memory foam because it contours to their body and reduces aches and pains. Some people love latex foam because it’s eco-friendly, sturdy, and bouncy.

But some customers complain that memory foam “sinks in” (leading to sleeping hot complaints, as well) too much when they lie on it or that latex is “too firm.”

In our experience, the Casper mattresses do not have the kind of memory foam that sinks in. This is probably because they only use a few inches of memory foam and it’s not the first layer in the bed (so the bulk of your weight isn’t going directly on it).

Still, if you have had bad reactions to memory foam or don’t want latex, then you’re going pick a Tuft and Needle mattress instead.

Okay, but what does Tuft and Needle use in their mattresses?

Tuft and Needle uses poly-foam (they call it T&N Adaptive Foam). It’s basically memory foam-lite. It’s the same type of foam that is memory foam, without any of the “memory” properties. So it’s lighter, more breathable, and it bounces back faster.

It’s also probably cheaper to make, which is why their beds cost so much less.

Okay, so Tuft and Needle vs. Casper – who wins?

Tuft and Needle beds cost less, are generally not as tall and generally don’t have as many layers as Casper mattresses.

Tuft and Needle beds don’t use latex foam or memory foam, but their special foam called TN® Adaptive foam.

They are (generally) going to feel a little firmer than their Casper counterparts. So, we’d recommend that if you’re a back or stomach sleeper looking for a bed on a budget, go with Tuft and Needle. If you’re a side sleeper or someone who wants a softer, more contouring feel, go with Casper.

Our Tuft and Needle Choice – The Mint

The Tuft & Needle Original all-foam mattress is a good option for a kid’s room or a college bed or a bed for your first apartment after getting your college degree but it isn’t a great bed (in our opinion) for an adult looking for a mattress that will last. It’s just a little too firm and doesn’t come with any added perks like zoned support.

That’s why we like the Mint. It’s a little more expensive, yes. But it’s also thicker, offers more cushion, and even has re-inforced edge support.

The Tuft and Needle Mint is a great option for budget shoppers and side sleepers.

Our Casper Choice – The Wave Hybrid

This is the most expensive Casper. It’s also the best Casper bed.

The Wave Hybrid uses all three types of technology: coils, latex foam and memory foam to create a truly comfortable and supportive bed.

It’s memory foam layer is underneath its poly-foam layer, which means the Casper Wave isn’t going to sleep hot. Plus, by using latex foam as a support layer, the Casper Wave Hybrid has a nice bounce to it. You don’t have to worry about sinkage (sinking or sagging deep into the mattress) when you’re trying to sleep at night.

Tuft and Needle vs. Casper – Mattress Warranties and Sleep Trials

Each brand is really good with customer service. They offer 100-night sleep trials on their mattresses (which means if you don’t like it, they will take it back and refund you your money) and 10 year warranties on their beds (designed to protect you if your bed starts sagging).

Final Thoughts

We hope this round up was helpful. It’s not easy (or fun) to pick a new bed. But here’s the good news. More companies than ever before are trying to make comfortable mattresses and they need to be competitive in their pricing.

What used to cost 3k or 4k dollars can not be bought for 1-2k. In fact, the materials are often better, the sleep trials are longer, and the warranties are fairer.

If after reading this review, you don’t think either bed is good for you, we recommend you check out Keetsa mattresses – they have a good line up of various mattress technologies.

Best Dyson Handheld Vacuums (2023)

Handheld vacuums are great for offices, small rooms, cleaning up quick spills, and helping out with other odd jobs (like vacuuming a car, reaching hard to reach spots like the corners of a closet or underneath a bed).

Dyson handheld vacuums are some of the most well-made, easily portable vacuums on the market. They are slim, light, and powerful. But – in true Dyson fashion – there several different models of Dyson handheld vacuums to consider (from the high-end Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal to the more budget-friendly Dyson VG).

We love Dyson vacuums and think they make a great addition to any home. To help you choose the right model that suits your needs and budget, we put together this review of the best Dyson handheld vacuums.

1. Dyson V11 Torque Drive

The Dyson V11 Torque Drive is Dyson’s most powerful – and most expensive – handheld vacuum. It runs for 60 minutes on a single charge, traps 99.99% of particles as small as .03 microns (that’s small) in its fully-sealed filtration system, and Dyson says it has twice the suction of any cordless vacuum.

Like most Dyson handheld vacuums, the Dyson V11 comes with some really helpful accessories. There’s the main cleaner head (a high torque cleaner head with its own motor to really increase the amount of suction), a mini motorized tool (a heavy-duty cleaner head that works perfectly to deep clean car seats and couches), a crevice tool (for hard to reach places), a mini-soft dusting brush (for cleaning keyboards and other delicate surfaces), a stubborn dirt brush (for hard to clean surfaces) and a combination tool for everything in between.

One thing that the Dyson V11 series has that no other Dyson handheld vacuum has is a LED screen at the back of the vacuum (where you can easily see it while using) that tells you much time you have left on your battery and lets you know what power mode you’re running on (the Dyson V11 has three different power modes, the eco-friendly mode, the auto mode, and the boost mode for maximum suction).

What about the Dyson V11 Animal?

There’s also a Dyson V11 Animal, which is the same exact vacuum as the Dyson V11 Torque but it doesn’t come with all the same accessories (it’s should without the mini-soft dusting brush). So if you don’t need all the accessories, it’s a great way to save a little money.

2. Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal

The Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal is our favorite Dyson handheld vacuum. The V10 adapts into a handheld vacuum (making it perfect for cleaning couches, car seats, and mattresses). All the dirt is stored in a transparent Dyson hygienic bin which is easily emptied with a click of a button (so don’t worry about vacuum bags or taking the V10 apart anytime you want to empty it).

The V10 has three different power moods that are helpful when navigating different types of floors (from carpet to wood to tile). Plus, the V10 can run for 60 minutes on a single charge (closer to 35 minutes if you’re using the vacuum at full power).

One of the biggest benefits of a handheld vacuum is portability, and one of the biggest disadvantages is the lack of power. By being of a smaller build, of housing, a smaller motor, handheld vacuums are almost always going to be less powerful than upright vacuums or canister vacuums.

But if you’re looking for maximum power and maximum mobility at a more affordable price than the Dyson V11 than you should seriously consider the Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal. It’s so powerful because Dyson’s cyclone technology (which creates a sort of tornado of suction that sends pollen and bacteria straight into the bin) is combined with the V10’s more brush bar. Whereas most handheld vacuums only have one motor, the Dyson Cyclone V10 animal has two.

3. Dyson V8 Animal

In case you haven’t noticed, the series (V11, V10, V8. .) indicate the amount of power of each Dyson handheld vacuum. When you’re at the V8 series, we’d say you’re right in the middle of what Dyson can offer.

The Dyson V8 Animal has a 40 minute run time with a full battery (though it only runs for roughly 7 minutes if you’re using high power).

When it comes to helpful accessories, with the Dyson V8 you’re getting a combination tool (which works for both hard and soft surfaces), a crevice tool (perfect for baseboards and hard to reach areas), a mini-motorized tool (perfect for car seats and couch cushions), and a mini soft dusting brush (which we like to use for vacuuming hard to reach dirt and dust off of our computer keyboards).

4. Dyson V7 Allergy

With the Dyson V7 Allergy, you’re getting 30 minutes of cleaning time and a HEPA filtration that captures as many allergens as possible so the V7 only puts clean air back into your room.

The Dyson V7, due to its smaller motor, is significantly lighter than the V11, V10, and V8. Those vacuums can weigh as much as 6 lbs, but the V7 weighs only 5.29 lbs.

What about the Dyson V7 Fluffy?

There is also a Dyson V7 Fluffy. It’s essentially the same vacuum except you get the Fluffy motorhead which is specifically designed for hard floors such a wood, tile, and granite.

5. Dyson V6

The Dyson V6 is the entry-level series to Dyson handheld vacuums. It can run for 20 minutes on a single charge, comes with a crevice tool (for annoying to reach places), a mini-motorized tool (for car seats and couches), and a combination tool (that works for both hard and soft surfaces).

The Dyson V6 is good for simple cleaning. We’ve seen it work great for offices and larger homes where the homeowner just wants to clean a small spill up at a time or have a vacuum handy that also works to help clear their car.

The Dyson V6 isn’t made to clean an entire home and it won’t be nearly as powerful as a traditional upright Dyson vacuum. Whereas the V10 and V11 models can be used as your main vacuum, the V7 and V6 models are really best to be as accessories to your main vacuum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Dyson handheld vacuum is best?

We like the Dyson V10 Animal because you get 60 minutes of powerful suction, plus amazingly helpful accessories such a mini-motorized tool (perfect for car seats and couch cushions and deep-cleaning your mattress). Plus, it has a near-perfect rating on Amazon.com and Dyson.com.

Are Dyson handheld vacuums worth it?

Dyson handheld vacuums are the best handheld vacuums on the market. However, handheld vacuums still have a long way to come before replacing an upright vacuum. Whether or not getting a Dyson handheld vacuum is worth it will depend on what you’re using it for.

If you live in a studio or small one-bedroom home or apartment, a high-end handheld vacuum will be perfect for you.

If you live in a larger home and are looking for a Dyson handheld vacuum to be your only vacuum, you may grow frustrated with the short brush bar and limited power.

How long do Dyson handheld vacuums last?

In terms of power, Dyson handheld vacuums range from lasting twenty minutes to lasting an hour on a full charge. There are variables depending on what power setting you’re using your vacuum on and what kind of surface (carpet requires more suction than hardwood floors, for example).

Dyson handheld vacuums or Dyson cordless vacuums come with a 2-year warranty. Dyson also has service centers throughout the country and you can take your vacuum in for routine checkups.

If taken care of, Dyson vacuums have been known to last 5+ years.

Which is better Dyson V7 or V8?

The Dyson V7 has less suction power and shorter battery life than the Dyson V8. To clarify, the V8 can last 40 minutes on one charger, while the V7 lasts 30 minutes on one charge.

If budget isn’t a concern, we’d recommend sticking with the V8 or up series.

Is Dyson V11 better than the V10?

The Dyson V11 is Dyson’s most powerful line of handheld vacuums. The V11 is a good substitute for a traditional vacuum (if you’re living in or cleaning a smaller home). It’s that powerful and it has a good 60 minute run time, which should give you plenty of time to do a deep clean on a one-bedroom home.

The V10, however, isn’t a major drop in suction power. It still has the same 60 minute vacuuming time and can do a deep clean on your floors. There is a price difference between the two. If you’re looking for the best, get the V11. If you’re looking for the best while factoring in price, get the V10.

What Can Be Used in Place of Dish Soap?

Have you ever realized that not only are all of your dishes dirty but you’re also out of dish soap? Or maybe you know you need dish soap but you don’t want to get dressed to go to the store, or you’re trying to stay in as much as possible to help with stay-at-home orders due to COVID-19.

Whether for cost-saving reasons, eco-conscious motivations, or just plain laziness, we got you covered because we are also very curious about what can be used in place of dish soap.

First, here’s how dish soap actually works. Dish soap works by breaking oil and dirt into smaller pieces that then mix with water and can be washed away. So, when you’re looking for alternatives, keep in mind you need something that can break apart oil and dirt.

Three Alternatives to Dish Soap

1. Baking Soda

The more we write about cleaning, the more we understand how no home is complete without baking soda. Baking soda can keep your refrigerator fresh, can clean your teeth, and it turns out it can also clean your dishes.

To use baking soap in place of dish soap, here’s what you do:

  1. Fill your sink up with hot water.
  2. Squeeze out one or two last drops from your practically empty bottle of dish soap. (If you need to, add water to the bottle to get more soap out from the bottom.)
  3. Then add 2 to 3 tablespoons of baking soda.
  4. From there just scrub your dishes clean like normal.

Now you have a nice lathery, foamy dish soap substitute.

2. White Vinegar

White vinegar is great for cleaning dishes because of its acidic properties. You can use it in several ways.

First, you can add it to your baking soda and soap basin you made in step one to make it even more effective.

Second, you can use salt and vinegar to fight really tough stains. Take two to three teaspoons of salt and coat it over the stained dish. Then add two to three teaspoons of white vinegar. Let the vinegar and salt solution sit on the dish for at least fifteen minutes. Then scrub it down and rinse.

You can also use white vinegar to remove cloudy stains from glass dishware

Whether it’s wine glass or a storage container, after repeated use dishware can get a film coating. It’s not nice to look at and it makes a dish, no matter how clean it is, look dirty.

Simply dip the dish in a solution of one part vinegar and three parts water, then wipe the film coating away.

3. Bleach

Washing your dishes with bleach isn’t a straight substitution for soap or the two methods we talked about above. But bleach is a great way to sanitize your dishes, to rob them of any unwanted bacteria, and make them incredibly clean.

Because bleach is stronger than soap, you’ll need to be careful when you’re using it to clean dishes.

Take 1-2 tablespoons of Clorox bleach and drop them in a gallon of water. Make sure you’re using an unscented bleach.

Before you fill up your sink, make sure it isn’t stainless steel because stainless steel and bleach do not go together, and you can actually end up staining your stainless steel with bleach stains.

Fill up your sink with the bleach-water solution, then soak your clean dishes in the sink for two minutes. After those two minutes are up, take the dishes out and let them air dry.

Note: When using bleach, we recommend you use rubber gloves.

How About a Bar of Soap?

Okay, maybe all of our solutions above don’t work for you. Maybe you’re really desperate and are thinking, “can I use a bar of body soap to clean my dishes?”

And, of course, you can use bar soap to wash dishes! It has the same benefits as normal dish soap, but it’s also not as practical. Bars of soap don’t last as long, aren’t as easy to use, and take more work to scrub into a lather.

How About Laundry Detergent?

Laundry detergent is sudsy, strong, and you’re likely to have a bunch of it in your house. But can you use laundry detergent to clean your dishes?

The quick answer is sure, you can. But we don’t recommend it.

Here’s why.

Laundry detergent uses a different kind of sulfate than dishwashing soap, making it harder to foam up and scrub away grime.

Laundry detergent also has all kinds of added scents, brighteners, and enzymes designed to work on clothes. This is not needed for dishes and could have potential adverse effects if consumed.

We hope you enjoyed reading! If you have any questions, ask them below and we’ll respond. 

How to Clean a Gas Grill

You probably brush down your grill’s grates after use, but when was the last time you took out the burner valves and heat deflectors and gave them a good clean?

Thoroughly cleaning your gas grill helps get rid of carbon deposits and grease and grime build-up. Giving your grill a good cleaning isn’t just to make it shiny. An unclean grill can lead to an uneven cooking experience, making it difficult to control flavor and temperature.

To help make sure you get the job done right, we’re going to cover how to clean a gas grill in 7 steps.

1. Gather your grill cleaning materials

  • A grill brush. If your grill uses stainless steel grates, use a brass grill brush. If your grill has cast-iron grates, use a stainless steel brush.
  • Paper towels or rags. You’ll use these to rub down sections of grill after you have you’ve soaked them.
  • Soapy water or a special grill cleaning solution. You don’t have to use a special grill cleaner, but it can help, especially if your grill is in need of a serious clean. Grill cleaner foams more than soapy water and helps break down grease and grime

2. Burn your grill

Turn all the burners on high and put the lid down. You’re letting the heat burn residue off the grates and burner protectors. This makes it easier to clean when it comes to soaking and wiping down the grill.

Keep your grill burners on high for about fifteen minutes. Once that’s done, turn the gas off before you move on to step three and remove the propane tank completely and set aside.

3. Scrub down the grates

Take your grill brush and scrub the grates. Give them a good, tough cleaning. You want to break down as much of any residue as possible.

Then spray the grates down with your cleaning solution. The cleaning solution on the still-warm grates will create steam, which helps with the cleaning process.

Scrub the grates again and then, when they’re looking clean, remove them from the grill and place to the side (on the ground or on laid out newspapers) to let them cool down.

Cleaning the grates is the one thing you can do after every use. Though it is not required, it doesn’t hurt.

Pro-tip: After cleaning your grates, use a paper towel and rub cooking or vegetable over the grates. This helps stop food from getting stuck on the grates in the future.

4. Remove and clean burner protectors

The next step is to remove the burner protectors (or heat deflectors) and clean them.

You do this by cleaning the burner protectors outside of the grill. We like to clean them in the yard. If that isn’t an option, just put the burner protectors on an old towel. From there you’re going to lather them in soapy water or grill cleaner and scrub them down.

Let them sit for five to ten minutes in the lather and then wipe them down with a rag or paper towels.

Keep them off to the side for now.

5. Remove and clean the burners

Using the same process in step number four, you want to clean the burners.

It’s important to do this step because food or other clogs in the burner pores leads to an uneven cooking method.

But when you brush the burner holes, do it side to side and not up and down. This helps keep the dirt from entering the burner holes.

Once you have the burners clean, set those aside for with the burner protectors and grates.

6. Clean out the inside of your grill

With your grates, burner protesters, and burner tubes out of the grill, you now have access to your cook box or catch pan.

This is the catch pan. It’s where all the junk, grime, and grease ends up.

We like to use a hose and spray down, but you’ll definitely need to loosen up all the old grime with your grill brush and soapy water.

Move all the crud out through the hole in the cook box (remember, you already removed the propane tank, so you can put a bucket under the hole).

7. Put everything back together

Use a towel to completely dry the burner tubes, burner protectors, and grates.

Put everything back in the right order, and you’re good to go!

How to Clean a Grill without a Grill Brush

The method we detailed above is heavily reliant on you having a good grill brush.

But if you don’t have one, there are still ways to clean your gas grill in a pinch.

Note: This method is really only for cleaning the grates, not the entire grill.

  1. Use a ball of aluminum foil. Take aluminum foil, ball it with your hands (think about the size of a tennis ball, maybe a little smaller), and use a pair of tongs to grab the ball. Now you can brush your grates down easily.
  2. Use an onion half. Turn on the grill and let it heat up. Then cut a whole onion in half. Grab one onion half with tongs or stick it with a fork and put it on the grill, cut side on the grates. You can use the onion to loosen junk and grime.

How often should you clean your grill?

There’s nothing wrong with cleaning your grates with a  grill brush after every use, but you don’t need to do the deep clean we outlined above that often.

While how often you clean your grill will depend on what you’re cooking and how much you’re cooking, we generally advise you to clean your grill twice a year.

Once at the start of grilling season, and once halfway through the summer.

Can you pressure wash the inside of a gas grill?

You can use a pressure washer on your gas grill but there’s a lot of risks involved.

People like the pressure washer method because it’s quick. You’re cleaning your grill in about 10 minutes vs. the hour or two it’ll take to do by hand.

But using a pressure washer on a grill means you have less control of where the water is going. Plus, pressure washers are powerful, you don’t want to accidentally break your grill.

If you’re going to use a pressure washer on a grill, simply remove all that you can from the grill. Clean the grates, burners, and burner protectors separately. Make sure the propane tank is not connected.

Can you clean a gas grill with vinegar?

Yes! Like we mentioned above, you don’t have to buy grill cleaner to clean your grill. You can use a soap-and-water solution or even a vinegar and water solution.

White vinegar’s acidity helps break down grime and grease.