Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports tested home gym equipment, recommending adjustable dumbbells and resistance bands as cost-effective, space-saving essentials. Top picks include NordicTrack and Core Home Fitness dumbbells under $400, and Whatafit Resistance Bands for $28. A recall warning is issued for certain HomeProGym bands.

Consumer Reports found Uber and Lyft charge different prices for the same ride to nearby users, with examples showing up to a $30 discrepancy. The investigation also raised concerns about fictitious discounts and fare-sharing practices, while companies denied pricing based on rider identity. States like Maryland and Connecticut have started restricting 'surveillance pricing' practices.

Consumer Reports highlights portable speakers for summer, emphasizing durability, sound quality, and portability. Recommended models include the Sony ULT Field 5, Bose Soundlink Flex, JBL Flip 7, Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3, and JBL Clip 5, each noted for features like water resistance and compact designs.

A musty smell in a car's air conditioning system is often caused by condensation and mold growth in the evaporator. Consumer Reports recommends using disinfectant spray in the plenum, checking the cabin air filter, and clearing sunroof drainage channels to resolve the issue.

Consumer Reports tested various coolers and identified the top 5 models for keeping drinks cold during camping trips and long drives. The best coolers maintain cold temperatures for days, not just hours, under heat conditions.

The article discusses considerations for renting electric vehicles (EVs) for summer road trips, noting that charging costs are typically lower than gas but savings depend on factors like charger availability, battery range, and charging speed. It advises checking charging infrastructure, comparing hybrid options for remote routes, and being cautious of rental deals with hidden fees or restrictions.

Consumer Reports identified six top-freezer refrigerators as the most efficient, noting they are significantly cheaper than other styles. The evaluation focused on temperature performance and noise levels across multiple models.

The article explains how setting up a guest WiFi network can enhance home network security by isolating guests' devices from the primary network. Consumer Reports recommends this method to prevent malware spread, improve network performance, and simplify WiFi sharing for visitors.

Consumer Reports advises parents and guardians to use parental controls to prevent unauthorized in-game purchases by children, citing a case where a grandmother's grandson spent $2,000 on Roblox. The article highlights that platforms like Roblox, Apple, Google, and Microsoft offer customizable parental control settings to manage spending and online activity.

Experts like Dr. Darria Long and Consumer Reports highlight summer child safety measures, including constant water supervision, use of Coast Guard-approved life jackets, pool fencing, helmet use for wheeled activities, CPR training, and window safety guards to prevent accidents.

Consumer Reports advises parents to enable parental controls to prevent unauthorized in-game purchases by children, citing a case where a grandson spent $2,000 on Roblox using his grandmother's credit card. The report highlights that games like Roblox allow kids to spend real money on virtual items without realizing the cost, and recommends using device-specific parental control features on Apple, Android, and Microsoft platforms.

Retailers are offering major July sales, including Fourth of July deals and lingering Amazon Prime Day discounts, with Consumer Reports advising shoppers to prioritize comfort and support in mattresses, bundle appliances, and seek outdoor gear deals. Experts highlight opportunities to save on large appliances, patio essentials, and back-to-school items.

Consumer Reports highlights that 37 children die annually from heatstroke in hot cars, emphasizing that temperatures inside vehicles can reach dangerous levels even in mild weather. The article provides safety tips, such as checking the back seat routinely and using visual reminders, to prevent children from being left unattended in vehicles.

A musty smell in car air conditioning systems is often caused by condensation fostering mold and bacteria in the evaporator. Consumer Reports recommends using disinfectant spray in the plenum, replacing the cabin air filter, and cleaning sunroof drainage channels to resolve the issue without professional repair.

The article highlights summer safety measures to prevent injuries in children, emphasizing water safety, helmet use for biking, CPR training, and window guards. Experts like Dr. Darria Long and organizations such as Consumer Reports recommend active supervision, Coast Guard-approved life jackets, and secure pool fencing to reduce risks.

Consumer Reports tested workout earbuds for sound quality, fit, and sweat resistance to identify the best options for summer. The article highlights that earbuds falling out during exercise can disrupt workouts.

Consumer Reports tested multiple compression socks to identify six top-performing pairs, emphasizing that comfort is crucial for consistent wear. The article highlights the importance of fit in ensuring users actually wear compression socks despite their compression levels.

Consumer Reports tested dozens of bed sheets to identify their top 7 choices for 2026, emphasizing that thread count is not a reliable indicator of quality or comfort.

Consumer Reports evaluated numerous electric toothbrushes and identified seven models worth purchasing in 2026. The report found that higher-priced models do not necessarily perform better.

Consumer Reports evaluated grocery store hot dogs based on juiciness, smokiness, and texture to determine the most flavorful options, finding that higher price does not guarantee better quality.

Consumer Reports tested over 90 cordless leaf blower models to determine the best ones based on sweeping and run time. Cordless models now compete with gas alternatives for yard work.

Consumer Reports tested 15 toilet paper brands to identify the top-performing options. The article highlights the results of their evaluation, focusing on ranking and testing methods.

Illinois has banned hidden 'junk fees' in online purchases and targeted bots and 'ghost ticketers' in ticket sales through new legislation signed by Gov. JB Pritzker. The law requires upfront disclosure of all fees, including service and processing charges, and prohibits resellers from listing tickets they do not physically possess.

On average, 37 children die annually from heatstroke in vehicles, with temperatures rising to dangerous levels even in moderate weather. Consumer Reports highlights safety measures like checking back seats and using visual reminders to prevent such tragedies.

Consumer Reports tested 12 body lotions in 2026 to evaluate hydration and fragrance, identifying the top 6 best options. The analysis focuses on products that effectively moisturize and retain scent longer than typical lotions.

Consumer Reports warns that 37 children die annually from heatstroke in hot cars, with temperatures rising to 105°F in one hour even when outside temperatures are 61°F. Children's bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults, making unattended vehicles dangerous regardless of weather conditions. Safety tips include checking the back seat, using visual reminders, and keeping cars locked.

On average, 37 children die annually from heatstroke after being left in hot cars. Consumer Reports highlights that car temperatures can exceed 105°F within an hour even in mild weather, emphasizing the need for routines like checking the back seat and using visual reminders to prevent tragedies.

An average of 37 children die annually from heatstroke after being left in hot cars, even on non-extreme weather days. Temperatures in enclosed vehicles can exceed 105°F within an hour, posing fatal risks to children whose bodies heat up faster than adults. Preventive measures include checking back seats, using visual reminders, and keeping cars locked.

Consumer Reports advises washing new clothes before wearing them to remove chemicals, dust, and potential bacteria from the manufacturing and supply chain process. Experts recommend using cold water, gentle detergents like Persil Free & Sensitive, and avoiding fabric softeners to protect sensitive skin, especially for babies.

Consumer Reports evaluated vehicles based on ride, noise, and seat comfort to identify the nine most comfortable cars on the market.

Consumer Reports tested 27 handheld vacuum models in 2026, evaluating run time and suction to identify the top five performers.

Consumer Reports evaluated dozens of nonluxury SUV models to identify the top 10 for 2026, emphasizing that these vehicles drive very differently despite similar spec sheets.

The article highlights the risks of children making unauthorized in-game purchases, such as a $2000 spending incident on Roblox using a grandparent's credit card. Consumer Reports recommends setting up parental controls on platforms like Apple's Family Sharing, Google's Family Link, and Microsoft Family Safety to limit spending and protect kids online.

Consumer Reports experts, including pediatric emergency room physician Dr. Darria Long, share summer safety tips to prevent injuries in children. Recommendations focus on water safety, helmet use for bikes and scooters, CPR training, and window safety measures.

Consumer Reports tested 12 shower cleaner products to identify six top picks for tackling soap scum and hard-water buildup. The article highlights the challenges of cleaning showers due to these common issues.

Consumer Reports tested nine aluminum-free deodorants to identify the top picks for 2026. The article highlights that these deodorants vary in effectiveness for active days.

Consumer Reports tested budget soundbars for sound quality and features, identifying six top picks in 2026. The article highlights varying audio performance across budget models.

Consumer Reports evaluated diaper brands based on absorption and dryness to identify the top 13 options for preventing rashes and leaks in 2026.

Consumer Reports evaluated gas grills based on evenness, temperature range, and indirect cooking to identify the top 10 models of 2026. The testing focused on performance metrics to determine the best picks.

Consumer Reports advises shoppers to compare retailers, check online inventory, and negotiate prices to save on urgent appliance purchases. Independent retailers may offer better service and accurate delivery times, while tactics like price matching and bundling can reduce costs. Shopping smart, even when needing appliances immediately, can prevent overspending.